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Hong Kong
Hong Kong has some of Asia's best and most varied cuisines in every possible setting -- from elegant hotel and romantic al fresco dining to the basic "come-as-you-are" food stalls, called dai pai dong. Of course, the most popular type of cooking is Cantonese-style, but you'll find restaurants that specialize in cuisine from every region of China. You'll also find an abundance of Western dining options, including the usual fast food suspects. Asian and Western beverages are widely served; tap water is purified. If in doubt, always ask for bottled water.
The InterContinental Hotel's highly regarded SPOON by Alain Ducasse is an excellent choice for a contemporary take on classic French cuisine (though there are also quite a few Asian and vegetarian options on the bill). You can order from the ever-changing a la carte menu (recent offerings include roasted duckling with spices or Brittany lobster with Greek-style vegetables) -- or you can opt for the "SPOON Experience" menu, a six-course degustation option personalized by the kitchen. SPOON also boasts the best wine list in town, with more than 3,000 bottles. The unassuming Tim Ho Wan, located in the Mong Kok district, is the world's cheapest Michelin-starred restaurant. Diners willing to wait an hour or more in line can enjoy crispy cha siu bao, the fried pork buns that are the restaurant's specialty (they reportedly sell about 750 a day). Other delicious options include beef meatballs, chicken feet, and pork and vegetable dumplings -- all available at a bargain price. Get a flavor of old Hong Kong at the Luk Yu Tea House on Stanley Street, a favorite among locals since the 1930's. The atmosphere is elegant and the dim sum is to die for -- which means it's hard to find a seat some days. Take your time and enjoy a leisurely cup of tea along with your meal. Just over a mile from the Ocean Terminal in the Kowloon district of Hung Hom is the 45,000-square-foot "concept" dining plaza, Wonderful Worlds of Whampoa. Over 300,000 diners flock each month to the complex's myriad establishments, which serve traditional cuisine in settings reminiscent of Hong Kong dining establishments of the 1940's and '50's. Service is friendly, the prices are extremely reasonable and it's one of the best places in Hong Kong to sample dim sum. Classic Cantonese cuisine is the star at Tsui Hang Village on Nathan Road -- think deep-fried shrimp balls, crispy chicken with green onion, and vegetarian noodles. Dim sum is also served over lunch and afternoon teatime.