Han Lok Yuen Restaurant

‘The Pigeon’

(Hung Shing Ye, Lamma Island)

Yung Shue Wan Ferry Pier, then 15-min walk.

Open every day 11am-10.30pm, last order 9:30pm.

The Han Lok Yuen Restaurant, often known simply as The Pigeon, was opened by Ms Ho Ying in 1976 and is today one of the few traditional pigeon restaurants still operating in Hong Kong.

Nestling on the hillside overlooking Hung Shing Ye gazetted beach, the restaurant is a quiet oasis that offers dining either under palm trees on a broad sea-view terrace, or in a comfortable air-conditioned dining room. Service is friendly and informal, the food is excellent and the atmosphere totally laid back.

Pigeon is the signature dish and this is prepared to a recipe that has been in the family for three generations. The tiny fowl must be treated for 24 hours so that when cooked it retains its flavour and succulence. The result in one of Hongkong’s gourmet experiences. 

For many people the natural accompaniment to Han Lok Yuen pigeon is minced quail on delicate saucers of fresh lettuce, and this again evokes memories of Hongkong’s once-famed pigeon eateries. The restaurant also offers a full menu of Cantonese-style dishes. Fresh seafood should be ordered a day ahead.

In more prosperous times, The Pigeon was internationally famous for its particular brand of family hospitality and cuisine. And Hung Shing Ye waters were often crowded with private and company launches taking parties for a convivial day on the Han Lok Yuen terrace. Today the crowds have gone, but Ho family members continue to play good-host in the belief that Hongkong will have better times ahead. 

Much of The Pigeon’s present support comes from regular customers who return repeatedly to experience its special combination of excellent food, great value and perfect ambience. Group bookings are common, whether simply for friends and family, or for company events.

The restaurant is licensed and offers a reasonable selection of wines and beers to accompany a meal, or to sit and quaff for their own sake. All Han Lok Yuen prices are reasonable, and for group bookings it is possible to prearrange a menu so that the cost can be kept within budget. Access to The Pigeon is either by road (Yung Shue Wan is about 15 minutes walk away) or by boat, to land by dinghy on Power Station Beach. For bookings, phone 2982 0608, or just turn up.