Ever wondered where Hong Kong’s oldest outdoor wet market is? It is right here at Graham Street Market. This market boasts a history of over 160 years. Locals and tourists alike find it fascinating.
As you enter Graham Street Market prepare for a sensory overload. The market comprises parts of Graham, Gage and Peel Streets. The activities here have been part of Hong Kong street life for over 150 years. It has survived Japanese occupation and previous rounds of urban development.
Let’s start our exploration. The street begins with fruit and vegetable stalls. These stalls offer fresher produce than supermarkets. They have more variety from Taiwan the Philippines and Japan. If you crave tropical fruits ask for recommendations.
Further along you will see stalls selling items that look like salami and duck confit. These are actually preserved Chinese sausage and salty duck. Locals cook them together with rice in a casserole. This blends the oil and flavor perfectly. You can buy some as souvenirs if you enjoy cooking.
As you walk down Graham Street Market look out for Kowloon Soy Company. It is on your right-hand side. This shop sells handmade sauce and paste. It is the retail shop of a century-old local soy sauce factory. The factory was founded in 1917. They use traditional methods to ferment and produce soy sauce. It is interesting to see the various types of pickles and pastes they make for different dishes.
Adjacent to Graham Street Market on Peel Street is an Instagram-worthy spot. It is Ken Kei Noodles Factory. You will find various types of Chinese noodles in the shop. All of these noodles are handmade daily by the owner George. He is happy to have visitors watch him make noodles. He shares his story of getting into the noodle-making business. If you want to buy some noodles try shrimp roe noodles or abalone noodles. Locals love them.
Walk towards the escalator when you get to Gage Street. You will see a store with a long queue. These people are visiting Lan Fong Yuen. It is the inventor of women’s stocking milk tea. Lan Fong Yuen is a classic Hong Kong style Cha Chaan Teng. Give them a try to experience authentic Hong Kong food and services.
Most of the store owners at Graham Street Market speak English. Their customers include expats domestic helpers and even restaurant chefs. The market is a down-to-earth place to explore. It is perfect if you are keen on food or want to experience Hong Kong life like a local.
Sadly the market traders are being evicted. Building clearance has begun. This street life that calls forth community memory and a way of life will shortly be erased from the landscape. The market will be sorely missed. It is a small oasis of traditional Hong Kong. The activities on this street provide regular employment for more than 100 people. For now Graham Street Market is a diverse and lively place.