Balut, the special Filipino delicacy of fertilised egg embryo, can be sampled right here in Hong Kong at Victory Mini Mart at World Wide House, an unofficial Little Manila for Hong Kong’s Filipino population.
The Central supermarket stocks balut (HKD8) amongst other Filipino-Chinese dumplings on the takeaway menu, Filipino snacks, and drinks. The duck embryo, hard to find in Hong Kong, is what steals the show.
Typically, the duck egg and developing carcass are eaten straight out of the shell, sometimes seasoned with vinegar or soy sauce for added flavour.
If you’re in the mood for Filipino food in Hong Kong, our recommendations go to Foodtrip Bedana’s Filipino Restaurant for a traditional look at the spicy-sour cuisine or Dara for a more modern take.
Victory Mini Mart, Shop C3, G/F, World Wide House, 19 Des Voeux Road Central, Central, 2772 2282