The pineapple bun, known as bo lo baau, is one of Hong Kong’s iconic snacks. Surprisingly, there’s no actual pineapple in it! The name refers to the bun’s unique outer crust, which has a texture reminiscent of a pineapple.
You can find pineapple buns at virtually any local bakery, and their sweet, buttery aroma is often one of the first things to greet you as you walk by. If you’re new to the city or searching for the best spots to enjoy a classic pineapple bun—whether served with a pat of butter or in more modern variations—read on to discover where you can treat yourself to this beloved staple!
Visit Lan Kwai Fong to discover the latest burger shack serving up four delicious variations of pineapple bun burgers! If you're a breakfast lover, don't miss their Breakfast A—a delightful creation featuring a pineapple bun filled with a crispy hash brown, eggs, and tomato sauce. It’s simple yet oh-so-tasty! Each set includes a drink, with options like cold brew, iced bolo pineapple tea, or soda. Plus, you can add a snack for an extra treat.
BOLO BOLO, G/F, 8 Wo On Lane, Lan Kwai Fong, Central, https://www.instagram.com/bolobolohk/
Since 1951, this beloved cha chaan teng in the Happy Valley neighborhood has been a popular spot for both loyal customers and tourists alike. The draw? Their delicious Hong Kong menu features standout items like their famous pineapple buns. Be sure to pair your bun with an equally delectable egg tart, or explore other offerings such as their flavorful noodles and creamy milk tea.
Cheung Hing Coffee Shop, G/F, 9-11 Yik Yam Street, Happy Valley, Hong Kong, +852 2572 5097, https://g.co/kgs/P5eQ9CZ
Indulge in their famous pineapple buns, which pair perfectly with everything on the menu, including their Hong Kong-style all-day breakfast. Don’t forget to enjoy it with a cup of their delicious hot milk tea. For a quick treat, you can also grab a pineapple bun from their convenient to-go counter window!
Happy Cafe (Causeway Bay), 3 Lan Fong Rd, Causeway Bay, +852 6711 9298, https://www.facebook.com/happycafehongkong/
Opening Hours: Daily 7AM - 9PM
Happy Cafe (Sheung Wan), Shop B, G/F, Wing Cheong Commercial Building, 19-25 Jervoios Street, Sheung Wan, +852 6711 9298, https://www.facebook.com/happycafehongkong/
Opening Hours: Daily 7:30AM - 6:30PM
If you’re enjoying a night out in Kowloon and craving a comforting pineapple bun to take with you, look no further than Hong Lin. Open until 3 AM, they serve up crispy pineapple buns that are light enough for a late-night treat. You can stick with the classic or try something adventurous, like their pineapple bun stuffed with scrambled eggs. It's highly recommended to pair your bun with their famous milk tea and delicious egg tarts for the ultimate snack!
Opening Hours: Daily 6:30AM - 3AM
Hong Lin Restaurant, G/F, 143-145 Tung Choi Street, Prince Edward, Kowloon, Hong Kong, +852 2391 8398, https://g.co/kgs/WDvitPW
For a classic experience of the pineapple bun—soft, fluffy, and topped with a delicious crust—this old-school cha chaan teng, established in 1957, crafts these buns to perfection. Be sure to visit in the morning to snag one, as they tend to sell out by the afternoon!
Opening Hours: Daily 7AM - 6:45PM
Kam Fung Cafe, 41 Spring Garden Lane, Wan Chai, Hong Kong, +852 2572 0526, https://g.co/kgs/aSJBo9x
For the ultimate cha chaan teng experience, tourists flock to Kam Wah Cafe, where the pineapple buns are a standout favorite on the menu. Just a heads-up: if you choose to dine in, you'll need to purchase a drink with your bun. If you're looking to save, it’s best to order your bun to go!
Opening Hours: Daily 6:30AM - 11PM
Kam Wah Cafe, 47 Bute Street, Prince Edward, Kowloon, Hong Kong, +852 2392 6830, https://www.instagram.com/kamwahcafe/
Yes, you read that right—the pineapple buns here are some of the largest in the 852! Enjoy them served plain, with a generous spread of ice butter, or stuffed with ham and eggs for an extra treat.
Kowloon Restaurant, Various Locations, https://www.klnrestaurant.com/
You’re sure to spot Men Wah Bing Teng in any Hong Kong neighborhood. A staple of the cha chaan teng scene since the 1970s, this café offers a delightful array of nostalgic favorites, including their renowned pineapple bun with an irresistibly fluffy and crispy crust. Choose from the traditional classic pineapple bun or opt for a savory version stuffed with eggs and ham or luncheon meat.
If you find yourself in Yuen Long craving delicious local bites at affordable prices, be sure to visit Mrs. Tang Cafe. Their pineapple buns are available in various tempting options. In addition to the classic version, you can try their signature pineapple bun sandwich, which is generously filled with eggs, tomatoes, and a thick slice of butter (as shown in the picture). For a heartier choice, don’t miss their savory pineapple bun pork chop sandwich!
Opening Hours: Mondays to Saturdays 8AM - 9PM; Sundays 8AM - 5PM
Mrs Tang Cafe, G/F, 121 Ha Mei San Tsuen, Tin Shui Wai, Yuen Long, New Territories, +852 6223 3816, https://www.facebook.com/mrstangcafe/
Families in Sai Kung frequently flock to this popular spot for their baked goods, and the pineapple buns often sell out by the afternoon! If you plan to dine in, keep in mind that a drink is required with your order. For those just looking to enjoy a pineapple bun, it's best to grab it to go—perfect for enjoying on a hike or during a leisurely stroll by the seaside.
Opening Hours: Daily 7AM - 8:30PM
Sai Kung Cafe & Bakery, G/F, 6-7 Kam Po Court, 2 Hoi Pong Square, Sai Kung, New Territories, Hong Kong, +852 2792 3861, https://g.co/kgs/comzAo9
Visit this trendy retro café in Tsim Sha Tsui and explore a menu brimming with Hong Kong favorites. One standout item is their innovative take on the pineapple bun—the Pineapple Bun Burger! This unique creation features a juicy beef patty, jalapeños, cheddar cheese, and Bolognese sauce, delivering the ultimate sweet and savory experience that’s sure to delight your taste buds.
Sam Chaan Cafe, G/F, Tak Sing Alliance Building, 115 Chatham Road South, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, +852 2130 9302, https://www.facebook.com/samchaancafe/
Want More?
Check out these other locations where you can find pineapple buns:
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