HK: Summerlove

So here's a little of what I've been up to in Hong Kong:
1. HUI LAU SHAN (許留山)


I LOVE this place. Perfect for the mango maniacs - they make it in any form imaginable: diced up slices, puddings, ice-creams, ices, smoothies, etc. (There's even one mixed with 'hasmar' - a Chinese dessert ingredient made from the fallopian tubes of frogs, mmmm?) The fruit has always been fresh everytime I've had it (as verified by the countless mango crates constantly stacked outside). Especially with it being so hot in the summer, I come here on a weekly basis (and with numerous shops throughout hk's most popular locations - it's a great revitalizer during a grueling shopping session). Furthermore, it doesn't break the wallet. A typical mango dessert is about HK$22 - 28, the drinks are usually $20, but cheaper if you buy two or three.
Sidenote 1: The Chinese characters on the sign are supposed to be read from right to left, as that's how they used do it the old-school way.
Sidenote 2: Mango isn't actually a very healthy fruit. It generates a lot of "hot heat" (熱氣) in the body, like too much 'yang' over 'yin' (uhm, or the other way round, I'm not sure), which essentially dehydrates the body and leaves you more vulnerable to illness, breakouts, etc. Some "cold-air fruits" which can neutralize it include pear, watermelon, pomelo, mangosteen.

2. GOLDEN BULL (金牛苑越南茶館)

This is one of the best Vietnamese restaurants to go to for their hot dishes and curries. Even the bread is really tasty and fresh! They have them in Time Square - Causeway Bay, Grand Century Plaza - Mong Kok, Harbour city - TST (Top: Beef Brisket Curry, French Loaf; Bottom: Duck a la Orange)

3. PLEASANT PALACE (囍臨門酒家)



Dim sum - the Cantonese version of brunch. My favorite place of all time can be found in Shun Tak Centre - Sheung Wan. I've tried many and this is one is by far the best! Good quality and decent prices (especially if you go on a weekday before 12pm). For example - even the wrapper on the shrimp dumpling is properly thin, smooth and flavorful ... not the thick bland stuff you usually find. This place also has the best Cream Buns (奶油包) - the cute swirly looking things. The only negative thing is that you need to bring your own napkins. (Clockwise from top: XO Sauce Chicken Feet, Shrimp Dumplings, Century Egg/Meat Congee, Cream Buns).