10 great Lunar New Year food and drink gifts in Hong Kong for Year of the Horse gatherings
From chic hampers with abalone and nuts to local gin, these gifts are great for giving – and sharing – to ring in the Year of the Horse 2026
There is a famous Cantonese phrase that refers to a Lunar New Year faux pas. Loeng so jiu, which translates to “showing up with two bunches of bananas”, means visiting someone’s house empty-handed.
Hosts tend to shower their guests with hospitality during the festive season, so it is good etiquette to arrive bearing gifts in return.
1. Cordis
The Ming Court Deluxe Chinese New Year Hamper (HK$1,988), named after the Cordis hotel’s Cantonese restaurant, is the perfect choice for traditionalists.
The highlight of the hamper is six-head abalone from Luen Kee Hoo, a trusted supplier of quality ingredients in Hong Kong since 1955. It also includes a 1kg (2.2lb) coconut New Year pudding, home-made caramelised walnuts and Ming Court tea. There is also red wine that has been selected by the hotel’s sommelier.
2. Tea WG
Teahouse chain Tea WG’s Year of the Horse Red Horse Tea (HK$388) is a limited-edition rooibos blend that is naturally caffeine-free.