Duke’s Deli
Although technically a deli not restaurant, there are plans to add counter side seating and a few tables to allow for in store dining. But while we’re waiting, we’ll settle for the greatest Philly cheese steaks in Hong Kong, awesome bagels, and New York-style pizza pies, with oh-so thin slices of pepperoni. Not to mention chicken parmesan, salads by the kilo, Snapple by the bottle, a fridgeful of A&W root beer, and delicious bread and pastries made on the premises. G/F, 135 Des Voeux Rd, Central, 2544 7587.

Runner-up: Tsukiji
Value sushi never tasted so good. The shop looks like nothing from the outside, but go up the stairs and you’ve got a cosy dining den that seats 20. Our question to you is this: where else will you find a ten-piece sushi set for $68, in Central no less? G/F, 46 Gage St, Central, 2542 3802.

Second runner-up: Tung Po Kitchen
It’s quite fair to say that chef/writer/general troublemaker Anthony Bourdain put this wet market joint on the international foodie map. Nowadays, people from as far away as Iceland are making pilgrimages to this dive (well, they were until…). Order their squid ink pasta (Chinese style), the yummy lotus leaf rice, and their ‘wind sand’ chicken. Don’t ask – just try. 2/F Municipal Bldg, Java St, North Point, 2880 9399.

Honourable mention: Crystal Jade
How could you go wrong with serving wallet friendly xiao long bao, hand-pulled noodles and fresh soy milk? Citywide; www.crystaljade.com/hongkong.htm.

Reader’s choice: Nha Trang
Viet noodles should be cheap and hardy, just like at this ever-popular Wan Chai joint. After all these years, this place still has long queues every night, proving why it’s the reader’s choice. 2/F Wu Chung Hse, 213 Queen's Rd East, Wan Chai, 2891 1177. G/F, 88-90 Wellington St, Central, 2581 9992.