Where a Panamanian in Hong Kong goes for Latin American food, ‘great’ dim sum, steak and seafood

Divya Tourani of home decor site Casa Duniya has struggled to find good Latin food during her 23 years in Hong Kong, but knows a place with ‘excellent’ empanadas

She also shares where she goes for seafood and some of the best fried chicken, a reminder of Thai street food, and food and drinks that are ‘always on point’

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Humita, a South American dish featuring corn and aromatic spices, at Muchachos, the Hong Kong private kitchen where Panama native Divya Tourani goes for “excellent” Latin food. The home décor seller also shares where she goes for dim sum, Thai food and more. Photo: Instagram/@muchachoshk

Published: 12:45pm, 5 Jun 2024

Divya Tourani is the founder of Casa Duniya, a portal for hand-selected home decor, accessories and gifts from around the world. She spoke to Andrew Sun.

My family is of Indian descent, but I was born and brought up in Panama. I’ve lived in Hong Kong for 23 years and love the food scene here.

My mother is an amazing cook – she was born in Vietnam. Growing up, she always loved trying new recipes and improving her cooking, so I was lucky to eat all sorts of cuisines.

However, I still love Panamanian dishes like empanadas, arroz con pollo, and ceviche de pulpo.

Divya Tourani is the founder of Casa Duniya, a portal for hand-selected home decor, accessories and gifts from around the world. Photo: Divya Tourani

In Hong Kong, I love the vibe at Yardbird (154-158 Wing Lok Street, Sheung Wan. Tel: 2547 9273). The food and drinks are always on point. I always feel like I am hanging out with friends there.