In a lively district of Wanchai, I found myself at a traditional Hong Kong cafe, ready to indulge in their take on the classic English breakfast, a colonial-era introduction. The Victory A Cafe on Hennessy Road exuded a mix of British and American diner vibes, bustling with a diverse crowd of locals and foreigners, a promising atmosphere.
As my loaded plate arrived, it showcased a variety of items including fried bacon, sausage, scrambled egg, fried fish in breadcrumbs, baked beans, salad, tomato, a glazed brioche bun, and garnished with diced green leaves, accompanied by a milky tea on the side.
The tasting experience was a mix of familiar and unique flavors. While the bacon was slightly fatty and the sausage a bit bland, the eggs stood out with their light, fluffy, and buttery texture, a result of Hong Kong’s unique preparation with cream and cornstarch.
Surprisingly, the fried fish stole the spotlight, complemented perfectly by a local chili sauce. The tea, made with “silk stockings,” offered a potent blend of Ceylon tea leaves strained through narrow cotton bags, creating a strong brew despite being sweetened with condensed milk.
To conclude the meal, I savored a “pineapple bun,” a local favorite with a crusty sugary top and a soft, subtly sweet interior. The balance of flavors paired well with the robust tea, leaving me satisfied until dinner.
The bill came to HK$85 (£8.50), a reasonable price for a fulfilling meal that highlighted the fusion of culinary influences from Hong Kong’s colonial past. The unique breakfast experience is a testament to the city’s diverse gastronomic offerings, worth traveling thousands of miles to savor.
