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Marathon Hong Kong Diner
Master Critic Review
Marathon Hong Kong Diner
7.6
A Hong Kong–style comfort-food counter inside LIC Food Hall that’s family-friendly in the most practical way: fast ordering, generous portions, and nostalgic carb-forward plates. It’s a smart pick when you want something warm and filling without a long sit-down.
Must-Try Dishes:
Macaroni soup, Bolo bao (pineapple bun), Black pepper beef spaghetti
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.1
What makes it special: Cha chaan teng comfort food that’s fast and kid-friendly.
Who should go: Families who want quick, filling comfort meals.
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner for easiest seating.
What to order: Macaroni soup, pineapple bun, black pepper spaghetti.
Insider tip: Order one noodle dish and one bun, then split everything.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available but can be difficult to find during peak hours. Public parking garage nearby for $5-7/hour.
Dress code: Casual, comfortable attire recommended. No formal dress required.
Noise level: Moderate - conversations are easy to have but expect some background noise from the food hall.
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation, especially during peak dinner hours.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, especially if you arrive before 12:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple vegetarian-friendly options such as vegetable noodles and tofu-based dishes.
Vegan options: Limited - a few options such as vegetable stir-fry and tofu dishes, but not an extensive vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Limited - options available but not prepared in a dedicated gluten-free area, so cross-contamination may occur.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a romantic first date as it’s a quick-casual setting. It’s great for low-key, no-pressure meals but lacks an intimate atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but it’s a food hall with limited seating. For the best experience, arrive during off-peak hours to avoid a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, very kid-friendly. The casual, fast-paced environment and simple comfort food make it perfect for families with young children. High chairs available.
Best For
Better for: Better for quick, filling meals on the go, especially when you’re in a rush or don’t want to commit to a long meal.
Skip if: If you’re looking for a more refined dining experience or want a quieter, intimate setting, this might not be the best option.