Must-Try Foods and Drinks During Mid-Autumn Festival in Hong Kong

During the Mid-Autumn Festival, families come together to admire the full moon, share a meal and enjoy seasonal treats. Mooncakes are usually the star of the celebration, but they are far from the only food worth trying.

From modern mooncake flavours to savoury dishes, traditional teas and fresh fruit, there are plenty of ways to make your Mid-Autumn table more interesting. Here are a few festive food and drink ideas to enjoy with family and friends.

Traditional Mooncakes with a Modern Twist

Mooncakes are one of the most recognisable foods of the Mid-Autumn Festival. Their round shape is commonly associated with reunion and togetherness, making them a natural choice for family gatherings and seasonal gifting.

A popular story links mooncakes to the Yuan dynasty, when messages were said to have been hidden inside them. However, the exact origin of this story is uncertain. What we do know is that mooncakes have been enjoyed during Mid-Autumn celebrations for generations.

Today, traditional lotus seed paste and egg yolk mooncakes remain popular, while newer flavours offer something different for modern tastes.

• Salted Egg Yolk and Black Truffle Mooncakes

Salted egg yolk and black truffle bring together two rich and savoury flavours. The creamy yolk pairs well with the earthy aroma of truffle, creating a more modern take on the classic mooncake.

This flavour is a good choice for anyone who enjoys bold combinations or wants to try something beyond the usual sweet fillings.

• Matcha and Red Bean Snow Skin Mooncakes

Matcha and red bean are a familiar pairing, with the slight bitterness of green tea balancing the sweetness of red bean paste. Wrapped in soft snow skin, this mooncake is lighter and more refreshing than many traditional baked varieties.

Its green and red colours also make it an attractive addition to a Mid-Autumn gift box or dessert table.

• Durian Custard Mooncakes

Durian custard mooncakes are made for people who already enjoy the fruit’s strong aroma and creamy texture. The smooth custard filling gives the mooncake a rich, soft centre that feels especially indulgent.

It may not suit everyone, but durian lovers will appreciate this bold and distinctive festive treat.

Savoury Dishes for a Mid-Autumn Gathering

Mooncakes may receive most of the attention, but savoury dishes are just as important when families sit down for a Mid-Autumn meal. The exact menu differs between households, but crab, duck and eel are among the seasonal foods commonly enjoyed in parts of China and Hong Kong.

• Crab

Autumn is a popular season for eating crab, when certain varieties are at their best. Depending on your family’s preference, crab can be steamed, cooked in congee or stir-fried with ginger and spring onion.It is a flavourful sharing dish that works especially well as part of a larger family meal.

• Duck

Duck is another popular choice for festive gatherings. It can be roasted, braised or served with seasonal vegetables, making it easy to include in different types of menus.

A whole duck is also suitable for sharing, which fits naturally with the Mid-Autumn theme of spending time together around the table.

Drinks to Serve During the Festival

A good drink can help balance the richer flavours of mooncakes and festive dishes. Tea remains one of the easiest choices, while osmanthus wine can add a more traditional seasonal touch.

• Oolong Tea

Oolong tea has a smooth taste and a fragrant aroma, making it a good match for both sweet and savoury foods. It works particularly well with rich mooncakes because the tea helps refresh the palate between bites.Serve it hot during a family gathering, or prepare it cold for a lighter option on a warm evening.

• Chrysanthemum Tea

Chrysanthemum tea has a gentle floral taste and is usually served without milk. Its light flavour pairs well with sweet snacks and can provide a refreshing break from heavier festive foods.It is also a simple alcohol-free option for guests of different ages.

• Osmanthus Wine

Osmanthus flowers are closely associated with autumn, so osmanthus wine is often linked with the Mid-Autumn season. It has a sweet aroma and is usually enjoyed in small amounts alongside a festive meal.For guests who drink alcohol, it can be a pleasant alternative to red wine or champagne.

Sweet Treats and Seasonal Fruit

Fresh fruit is a light and refreshing way to finish a Mid-Autumn meal. It is easy to share and adds natural colour to the table.

Pomelo

Pomelo is closely associated with the Mid-Autumn Festival. Its fresh citrus flavour pairs well with rich mooncakes and savoury dishes, and it is also a popular choice for Mid-Autumn fruit hampers.

Starfruit

Starfruit has a crisp texture and a sweet-tart flavour. Serve it chilled and sliced as a simple addition to a festive fruit platter.

Pear

Pears are juicy and refreshing after a rich meal. They can be served fresh or added to a light sweet soup, although some people avoid sharing one because the Chinese word for pear sounds similar to “separation”.

Editor’s Picks: Food Hampers No One Should Miss This Mid-Autumn Festival

• Gold Blossom Fruit Hamper With Peninsula Mooncake & Wine or Champagne

If you are looking for a more complete Mid-Autumn gift, this hamper pairs fresh seasonal fruits with The Peninsula mooncakes, with the option to choose the 8-piece Mini Egg Custard Mooncake for a more generous festive touch.

You can also add wine or champagne, making it a refined choice for family sharing, client gifting or sending warm wishes during the season. Presented in a bright festive gift box, it is an easy way to make your Mid-Autumn gift feel more special.

YOU CAN ORDER OUR GOLD BLOSSOM FRUIT HAMPER WITH PENINSULA MOONCAKE & WINE OR CHAMPAGNE NOW FOR HKD 1,219.00 AND GET FREE DELIVERY TO ALL METROPOLITAN AREAS IN HONG KONG

• Gold Blossom Fruit Hamper with The Peninsula Mooncake and Travel Tea Set

This Mid-Autumn hamper combines fresh seasonal fruits, The Peninsula mooncakes and a travel tea set in one well-balanced gift. The tea set pairs naturally with the mooncakes, making the hamper suitable for family gatherings, festive visits or business gifting. Presented in an elegant red gift box, it is a practical and thoughtful way to send Mid-Autumn wishes.

YOU CAN ORDER OUR GOLD BLOSSOM FRUIT HAMPER WITH THE PENINSULA MOONCAKE AND TRAVEL TEA SET NOW FOR HKD 1,459.00 AND GET FREE DELIVERY TO ALL METROPOLITAN AREAS IN HONG KONG

• Mid-Autumn Delights Hamper

This Mid-Autumn hamper brings together Kee Wah mooncake, premium abalone, bird’s nest fish maw soup, roasted almond dark chocolate and jasmine dragon pearl tea. The mix of sweet and savoury items makes it easy to share during family gatherings, festive visits or a quiet celebration at home.

YOU CAN ORDER OUR Mid-Autumn Delights Hamper NOW FOR HKD 759.00 AND GET FREE DELIVERY TO ALL METROPOLITAN AREAS IN HONG KONG