In My Hood: Out and About on Hollywood Road, Hong Kong

I love neighborhoods in transition. Right now, the area around Hollywood Road is experiencing a revival. It used to be known mainly for its colonial buildings and antique markets, but recently trendy shops, bars, and restaurants have started popping up, attracting a younger crowd. It’s such an inspiring place, and I always leave with new ideas for my designs. For example, I often stroll through the market on Upper Lascar Row, also known as Cat Street, where I hunt for traditional crafts and cool vintage pieces – or walk down Graham Street, where some of the city’s best graffiti artists have left their mark on the walls.

PoHo Is One of My Favorite Streets

The blend of old and new along Hollywood Road fascinates me every time. At Man Mo Temple, with its intricate wood carvings, you can feel the spirit of Hong Kong from over 150 years ago. One of my favorite things to do is turn off Hollywood Road into one of the traditional “ladder streets” – those narrow alleys made of steps, which are typical for Hong Kong. My favorite is Po Hing Fong, also called PoHo, a charming neighborhood with a delightful mix of cafés, design studios, and artist workshops. Another creative hotspot is Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage & Arts. This former police station was transformed into an arts and cultural hub with restaurants and shops by the renowned architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron.

Hollywood Road Named the World’s Second-Coolest Street

At lunchtime, I love heading to Kau Kee, a restaurant famous for its beef brisket soup since the 1930s. There’s always a line outside. Another sought-after spot is the Michelin-starred Neighborhood, where chef David Lai serves seafood in every possible form.

One thing is for sure: anyone who walks along Hollywood Road will be overwhelmed by the sensory experience. It’s no surprise that Time Out magazine named it the world’s second-coolest street for 2024, right after Melbourne’s High Street.

About

Architect and designer Douglas Young is the founder of the lifestyle brand GOD – Goods of Desire. There are five GOD stores in Hong Kong, one of which is located on Hollywood Road. He opened his first store in 1996 and has since earned a reputation as a style icon. His own collections, ranging from fashion to lifestyle products, reinterpret traditional Chinese design with a contemporary twist.