The stacks of sliced-up tree trunks sitting outside this Shanghai Street shop reveal its raison d'être: custom-made chopping blocks. In fact, Man Kee is one of only a few shops left in the city that specialise in the rustic restaurant essential. They are much sought after by chefs who are looking for a sturdy, long-lasting slab. Home cooks are also accommodated with a range of materials, such as pine, which is ideal for fish. Business has declined in recent years due to an influx of cheap mass-produced blocks, so Man Kee has expanded its range into other kitchen supplies, including a selection of traditional handheld gai dan jai waffle irons.
