Hong Kong’s Best Ice Cream and Dessert Spots for Kids

Hong Kong is a sensory playground. Between the towering skyscrapers, the bustling markets, and the serene harbor views, there’s an energy that captivates visitors of all ages. For families traveling with children, this energy needs occasional sweet refueling. Luckily, Hong Kong’s dessert scene is as dynamic and diverse as the city itself, offering far more than just a scoop of vanilla. It’s an integral part of the travel experience, a delicious way to engage with local culture, cool down from the subtropical heat, and create those unforgettable, sticky-handed memories. From traditional tong sui shops to whimsical gelato boutiques, here is your guide to the most delightful ice cream and dessert spots that will make both kids and parents smile.

Beyond the Cone: Dessert as a Cultural Pit Stop

Before diving into the listings, it’s worth noting that seeking out desserts in Hong Kong is a tourism activity in itself. It leads you down narrow side streets in Sheung Wan, into bustling cooked food centers in Kowloon, and to waterfront promenades with stunning views. Each sweet treat tells a story of Hong Kong’s unique blend of Chinese roots and international influences.

The Classics: A Taste of Local Tradition

For a truly authentic experience that connects kids to Hong Kong’s culinary heritage, skip the familiar chain stores and seek out these traditional favorites.

Mango Pomelo Sago (Mango Xing Ren Xi Gao) is a superstar dessert for good reason. This chilled, creamy soup of fresh mango puree, sago pearls, and tangy pomelo segments is a refreshing, fruity delight that most kids adore. The fun texture of the sago (tiny tapioca balls) and the burst of pomelo make it an adventure. Hui Lau Shan is a famous chain specializing in this and other mango-based delights. Its bright, clean shops are a reliable and kid-friendly entry point into the world of tong sui (sweet soup).

Egg Waffles (Gai Dan Jai) are arguably Hong Kong’s most iconic street food snack. These bubble-shaped waffles are crispy on the outside, soft and slightly chewy on the inside. The best part for kids? Tearing off each little “egg” bubble one by one. While traditionally plain, modern vendors offer a plethora of toppings. For the ultimate kid-pleaser, find a spot that serves them with a giant scoop of ice cream, whipped cream, and sprinkles. Look for long lines at places like Mammy Pancake in Mong Kok or from street stalls in tourist hubs like Tsim Sha Tsui—the spectacle of them being made is half the fun.

Dou Fu Fa (Tofu Pudding) is a gentle, silky-smooth pudding made from soybeans. Served warm or cold with a simple ginger or sugar syrup, it’s a subtly sweet and healthy-ish option. Its soft, jiggly texture is often a hit with younger children. Many traditional dessert shops, like Kung Lee Sugarcane Juice in Central (which also sells fresh sugarcane juice!), serve an excellent version.

The Modern & Whimsical: Instagram-Worthy Treats

Hong Kong’s dessert innovators are masters of creating visually stunning and delicious concoctions that spark instant joy.

Gelato & Artisan Ice Cream Havens

Gelato-go in Sai Ying Pun is a slice of Italy in Hong Kong. Their gelato is made fresh daily with high-quality ingredients, and they boast a rainbow of flavors. Kids can choose classics like rich chocolate or stracciatella, while more adventurous little eaters might try the local-inspired Black Sesame or Lychee Oolong. The staff is generous with samples, turning flavor selection into a game.

Oddies Foodies in Central is legendary for its Night Wolf—a Hong Kong egg waffle cone filled with gelato, topped with brownie bits, and a drizzle of sauce. It’s messy, it’s huge, and it’s pure happiness in a handheld format. The combination of hot/waffle and cold/ice cream is a textural dream. Be prepared for a queue and have plenty of napkins handy!

Emack & Bolio’s is not just about ice cream; it’s about the cone. Their wildly colorful, cereal-coated “Space Cones” are a magnet for children’s eyes. Stacked high with ice cream and toppings, these creations are a full dessert spectacle. Locations in Tsim Sha Tsui and Causeway Bay make it a perfect post-shopping or post-museum treat.

Themed Experiences: Where Dessert Meets Play

Some spots elevate the dessert experience into full-blown entertainment, perfectly aligning with a family tourism itinerary.

The Ice Cream Gallery in Tsim Sha Tsui is a small museum and shop dedicated to the history and art of ice cream. While browsing vintage paraphernalia and learning fun facts, you can enjoy a scoop. It’s a quick, educational, and tasty stop, especially before or after a visit to the nearby Hong Kong Science Museum or Space Museum.

For the ultimate character-themed experience, Hello Kitty Chinese Cuisine (though more a dim sum restaurant) serves adorable character-shaped buns and desserts. Meanwhile, various pop-ups and cafes, like the former Snoopy’s World-themed areas, often feature themed sundaes. Keep an eye on Hong Kong’s dynamic pop-up cafe scene for limited-time collaborations with popular cartoon characters.

The Hotel High-Tea for Minis

Don’t overlook Hong Kong’s legendary hotel afternoon teas, many of which offer special “children’s” or “teddy bear” tea sets. The InterContinental Hong Kong (now regenerated as The Regent Hong Kong) and the Peninsula are famous for their lavish spreads, often including exquisite pastries, scones, and chocolate treats in kid-friendly portions. It’s a chance to experience world-class service and a touch of glamour, all while the little ones feel royally treated with their own tower of goodies. Booking one of these can be the elegant, air-conditioned centerpiece of a day of sightseeing.

Practical Tips for the Sweet-Toothed Family Explorer

• Beat the Heat: Dessert shops are a perfect afternoon retreat. Plan your sweet stop for between 2-4 PM to avoid the midday sun and crowds.
• Location is Key: Pair your dessert with a nearby attraction. A mango pomelo sago after the Star Ferry ride, an egg waffle while exploring Temple Street Night Market, or a gelato after hiking Dragon’s Back or visiting Hong Kong Park.
• Share and Explore: Portions can be generous. Sharing allows everyone to try more than one thing. Encourage kids to try one familiar flavor and one new “Hong Kong” flavor like Durian (for the brave!), Purple Sweet Potato, or Milk Tea.
• Hydration Balance: Sweet treats are dehydrating in the heat. Always follow up with plenty of water.
• Follow the Line: Often, the longest local queues are for the best street food desserts. It’s a sign of quality and a cultural experience in itself.

From the nostalgic charm of a street-side egg waffle to the dazzling spectacle of a cereal-topped ice cream cone, Hong Kong’s dessert landscape offers a delicious thread to follow through your family’s journey. It’s more than just sugar; it’s a passport to neighborhoods, a lesson in traditions, and a guaranteed way to add a sprinkle of joy to every day of your Hong Kong adventure. So map out these spots, follow your sweet tooth, and get ready to discover the city one delightful spoonful at a time.