Cha chaan tengs (Hong Kong-style cafés)

Tai Lee Cafe

A 22-seat kitchen run by Eleni & Yassine, serving the dishes their grandmothers argued about on Tuesday nights in Kreuzberg.

32號 Pei Ho St, Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong $1–50
3.8
195 notes from regulars
01 The story, in three paragraphs

Why everyone keeps coming back.

Nestled in the bustling heart of Sham Shui Po, Tai Lee Cafe is a charming cha chaan teng that reverently celebrates the essence of classic Hong Kong-style cafés. This local gem exudes a nostalgic ambiance with its retro decor, echoing the cozy, unpretentious tea shops that Hong Kong is famous for. Stepping inside, you instantly feel transported to an earlier era, where the clink of ceramic cups and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee fill the air.

Tai Lee Cafe’s menu is a delightful showcase of authentic Hong Kong flavors, embracing the fast-paced yet comforting soul of traditional Chinese cafés. Among the standout offerings, their milk tea commands attention — silky, robust, and expertly brewed, it has earned praise as superior even to some of the more renowned chai chan tan around town. Alongside the tea, the buttery toast is a must-try; crisp on the outside with a warm, velvety richness that lingers pleasingly on the palate.

What truly enhances the dining experience here is the genuine warmth of the service. Customers repeatedly highlight the friendly, down-to-earth staff who make every visit feel personal and welcoming. Whether you're savoring a humble bowl of noodles or enjoying lunch on a modest budget—Tai Lee Cafe offers impressive value without compromising quality. Prices often come in below HKD 50, making it an unbeatable spot for a satisfying, no-frills meal with friends or a solo comfort break amid the city’s pace.

The atmosphere is unpretentious yet deeply evocative, perfect for those seeking a slice of Hong Kong’s rich culinary culture wrapped in a traditional setting. The blend of simple, delicious fare and heartfelt hospitality creates an inviting space where locals and visitors alike can relax and savor the authentic flavors of a bygone era.

For anyone eager to experience genuine Hong Kong-style dining, Tai Lee Cafe is a standout choice—where every sip and bite tells a story of heritage, community, and a timeless love for good food.

03 Notes from regulars

195 notes — the real pulse of the room.

3.8
Based on 195 verified notes
5 56
4 73
3 51
2 16
1 7
All Nostalgic Nostalgic Ice Room The Environment Fried Chicken 60s And 70s Style Tessera Curry Pork Cutlet Rice Nostalgic Tea Restaurant Wooden Booths Butter Toast
nalachan.
3 month ago
Very Old Style Chai Chan Tan, milk tea was good. Better then some big famous Chai Chan Tan. Friendly service!
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Stephen Leung.
3 month ago
The food is fine and the environment is quite traditional
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Zee Ho Paul TSANG.
3 month ago
Down to earth neighborhood. Cheap eat. Retro decor. Friendly service.
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Anthony Leung.
3 month ago
Old style Hong Kong tea and coffee shop. Coffee is nice and the butter toast is even better.
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Ho Chun Kit.
4 month ago
In the local cafe, grounded price but unexpected quality. I always enjoy having lunch with my friends there. Less than 50 for lunch but it’s great
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Brett Kwong.
4 month ago
Traditional Hong Kong style cafe, off tables old chairs. It's cool that they keep everything unchanged. But the food actually just average
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Arlo “果福” Yip.
4 month ago
間唔時都會入深水埗大利冰室食個飯,食物味道唔算突出,但價錢相當實惠,最貴嘅飯餐都只係50蚊。最喜歡店入面大部分陣設仲停留喺六十幾七十年前,如果去過茶果嶺榮華冰室,就發覺佢哋嘅卡位木凳係同類似設計款式,咁嘅環境食嘢對我蒞講都係一種享受。平時喜歡黑椒雜扒飯,今日入去轉食咖喱吉列豬扒飯,豬扒薄薄地好脆口,咖喱汁椰子味重,一般但唔差,熱飲叫杏霜,大利冰室熱杏霜好多時都落到好重杏粉,飲落較厚身,平平哋$45,咁就享受咗個午餐時段。
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TERENCE CHUNGMING LIU.
5 month ago
Old style hong kong western food restaurant, enjoy traditional taste.
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04 When to visit & how to find us

Hours & the door on Bergmannstraße.

Opening hours
Monday 06:30 AM - 05:00 PM
Tuesday (today) 06:30 AM - 05:00 PM
Wednesday 06:30 AM - 05:00 PM
Thursday 06:30 AM - 05:00 PM
Friday 06:30 AM - 05:00 PM
Saturday 06:30 AM - 05:00 PM
Sunday 06:30 AM - 05:00 PM
Finding the door

32號 Pei Ho St, Sham Shui Po, Hong Kong

05 What makes this place friendly

The details you usually have to call and ask.

Service options
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in
Highlights
  • Great coffee
  • Great tea selection
Popular for
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Solo dining
Accessibility
  • No Wheelchair accessible entrance
  • No Wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • No Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
  • Coffee
  • Quick bite
Dining options
  • Breakfast
  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Catering
  • Table service
Amenities
  • Restroom
Planning
  • No Accepts reservations
Children
  • Good for kids
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