Cocktail bars
Bars with live music
Rooftop bars
Speakeasy-style & hidden bars
Cafe bars
Wine bars
Beer bars
Gin bars
Sake bars
Whisky bars
Photograph: Courtesy Apothecary
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Shop 3A, Carfield Commercial Bldg, 75-77 Wyndham St, Central; 2893 8233; apothecaryhk.co
Apothecary is, well, an apothecary-themed bar aimed at curing whatever ails you with their botanical-inspired concoctions. Their Awakening Journey menu is the second chapter of their apothecary-themed drinks and features 10 creative tipples. From milk punch to sours and highballs, their cocktails are made using infusion and clarification methods to create smooth, easy-to-drink, and well-balanced cocktails, which can sneak up on you as it packs more punch than you’d think.
A bar that highlights flavours of herbs and spices
Central
Apothecary
Photograph: Courtesy Argo
G/F, Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, 8 Finance St, Central; 3196 8882; fourseasons.com/hongkong
Argo takes its name from the Greek myth of Jason and the Argonauts, who sailed on the ship called Argo in search of the Golden Fleece. Designed to emulate a conservatory with small terrariums and mirrors reflecting natural light, Argo aims to serve as a vessel for progress and exploration, highlighting innovative spirits and quirky liquors that break away from traditions. Their new cocktail menu, Argo Cook Book, offers cocktails inspired by Hong Kong and its culinary heritage.
Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong’s award-winning innovative bar
Argo
G/F, 29 Gough St, Central; 2813 1669; biancoandrosso.com
Bianco & Rosso is a niche bar focused on aromatized fortified wine. Helmed by mixologist Luca Andrei, the bar is a great place to explore and learn about the aperitif wine and its many styles and versatility, which is showcased in the cocktails available on the menu. The place is also excellent for lunch and dinner, so if you’re pre-gaming, you can indulge in dishes with European flavours and have a few drinks before you head out to complete your Central bar-hopping itinerary.
Hong Kong’s first vermouth-centric bar
Bianco & Rosso
Photograph: Courtesy Bianco & Rosso
1/F, Maison Meiji, 7 Mallory St, Wan Chai; 6181 9801
Located inside Western-Japanese restaurant, Maison Meiji, Kuromaru is one of the few bars in the city that spotlights shochu, a traditional Japanese hard liquor made from grains and vegetables. The venue works in partnership with the Japanese whisky bar Mizunara: The Library, so expect well-crafted cocktails inspired by the classics. The menu presents refreshing highballs, signature cocktails, and a rotating menu using seasonal ingredients and limited-time creations from their bartenders. Patrons who want to learn about shochu and awamori can join their regular masterclasses about these underrated spirits.
A cosy vinyl and shochu cocktail lounge
Kuromaru
Photograph: Courtesy Kuromaru
2/F, Little Tai Hang, The Corner House, 98 Tung Lo Wan Rd, Tai Hang; 2155 1777; maka-hiki.com
Maka Hiki is the contemporary cousin of the now-closed tiki cocktail lounge, Honi Honi. Owned by French mixologist and restaurateur Maxence Traverse, the bar is perfect for casual meetups with friends where you can enjoy thoughtful tiki drinks and delicious food inspired by flavours from the Caribbean, Polynesia, Indian Ocean, and Southeast Asia. Book a seat at one of the two lush outdoor terraces, a hidden oasis that will transport you away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Tiki-inspired bar in Tai Hang
Maka Hiki Tropical Bar & Grill
Photograph: Courtesy Maka Hiki Tropical Bar & Grill
2/F, 110 Queen’s Rd W, Sai Ying Pun
Located above Korean-inspired noodle bar Dam:a, Mostly Harmless is a relaxed omakase-style cocktail bar headed by award-winning bartender Ezra Star. Cocktails on the menu are constantly changing depending on seasonal produce and Ezra’s latest market haul, so best to try what is on the current offerings because once it’s gone, it may never come back again. But an off-the-menu order, based on your preference, will certainly not disappoint.
An omakase cocktail bar in Sai Ying Pun
Mostly Harmless
Photograph: Courtesy DTH Photo
56-58 Hollywood Rd, Central; 2851 3223; quinary.hk
The finest of Antonio Lai’s various cocktail bars and ground zero of molecular mixology in Hong Kong, Quinary provides a multisensory experience that is unmatched anywhere else in the city. Not just about excellent taste, Quinary pays attention to detail in aesthetics, feel, and smell – all the senses are stimulated. These days you’ll find Quinary hosting regular collaborations with brands and showcasing different experiences that can whisk you away in mind and spirit.
A modern bar where quality spirits meet multisensory cocktails
Quinary
Photograph: Courtesy Quinary
LG/F, H Code, 45 Pottinger St, Central; 6038 4020
Helmed by renowned bartender Gagan Gurung, Tell Camellia’s mission is to fuse tea and cocktail culture. The cocktail menu is split between signature teatails – all of which are infused with exotic teas and region-specific spices – and house gins that have been lovingly redistilled with different tea flavours. If you want to learn how to make tea-tails, catch the bar’s regular workshops where you can explore everything about tea, spirits, and mixology.
Tea-focused cocktail bar in H Code
Tell Camellia
Photograph: Courtesy Tell Camellia
Shop E, LG/F, Felicity Bldg, 58 Hollywood Rd, Central; 2366 6836; thedailytot.com
The Daily Tot is a Caribbean-inspired bar named after the centuries-old ritual of handing out a daily rum ration to Royal Navy sailors from 1850 to the 1970s. The bar focuses on niche rum bottles from Barbados and Trinidad which showcase the true flavours of this versatile spirit. Expect signature cocktails that highlight rum’s versatility in the classics with twists and light flavours.
A bustling Central bar with Caribbean rum at its heart
The Daily Tot
Photograph: Courtesy The Daily Tot
9/F, The Loop, 33 Wellington St, Central; 9702 5267
The Social Den is a hip Polynesian-themed bar featuring killer happy hours, DJs on deck, and bar industry veterans stirring up fun craft cocktails behind the bar. Expect Chinese liquor-based cocktails with exotic fruit flavours and Polynesian and Cantonese bar bites, including char siu pork neck and crispy zucchini chips with salted egg aioli.
A contemporary cocktail bar inspired by the tiki culture
The Social Den
Photograph: Courtesy The Social Den
13 Old Bailey St, Central; 2521 3855
With its grunge aesthetic and free-wheeling ethos, The Pontiac is unique within Hong Kong’s upscale cocktail scene. But it’s not just the dive bar vibes and rock-heavy playlist that make this spot on Old Bailey Street a popular destination. The drinks are spot-on, especially the classics, and the staff are among the most fun and engaging in the city. Try the drinks from their album-style Now That’s What I Call The Pontiac cocktail menu featuring 13 drinks from fizzy to spirit-forward to suit any palate.
A grungy American-style bar on Old Bailey Street
The Pontiac
Photograph: Courtesy The Pontiac
Ezra’s Ln, 1-13 Hollywood Rd, Central; 6100 9111
The Mixing Room took over bespoke cocktail bar J. Boroski’s previous location on Hollywood Road, situated a stone’s throw away from its sister venue, The Iron Fairies. Like their sister venues across Asia, award-winning designer Ashley Sutton designed the space with a mesmerising fairytale-like interior featuring a visual treat of over 22,000 vintage bottles containing poems, ingredients, and objects dangling from its ceiling. Heading the venue is industry veteran Tom Egerton, who brings his expertise to the bar, offering cocktails inspired by the characters from the Iron Fairies fairytale books.
The latest bar designed by famous interior designer Ashley Sutton
The Mixing Room by Iron Fairies
Photograph: Courtesy The Mixing Room by Iron Fairies
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L6, Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong, Pacific Place, Supreme Court Rd, Central; 2820 8560; shangri-la.com/hongkong/islandshangrila/dining/ bars-lounges/lobster-bar
Lobster Bar and Grill offers a convivial atmosphere to unwind while savouring innovative cocktails crafted by their bartenders. Take your pick from a rotating list of libations including classic and creative cocktails with artistic Asian flair, artisanal spirits, fortified wines, and liquors, or enjoy free-flowing Champagne and wines served at lunch time during the weekends while pairing your drinks with grilled delicacies and fresh seafood creations for an all-round bar and dining experience.
A visit to this hotel bar is a must for any cocktail lover
Lobster Bar and Gril
Photograph: Courtesy Island Shangri-La
1/F, The Peninsula Hong Kong, Salisbury Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui; 2696 6773; peninsula.com/en/hong-kong
Take pleasure in sipping artisanal cocktails, glasses of fine wine, or Champagne within the cosy ambience of The Bar at The Peninsula Hong Kong. Accompanied by live jazz music, guests can enjoy a range of creatively crafted cocktails with sustainability in mind – both classic and daringly original – served in a sophisticated and intimate setting featuring wood-panelled walls, warm golden lights, and club-style seating.
Discover finely-crafted cocktails at this cosy elegant bar
The Bar
Photograph: Courtesy The Peninsula Hong Kong
7/F, Kerry Hotel, 38 Hung Luen Rd, Hung Hom; 2252 5281; shangri-la.com/hongkong/kerry/dining/bars-lounges/red-sugar
Enjoying a tipple with a great view is always an excellent formula for a night out. Located on the Level 7 of Kerry Hotel, Red Sugar offers an outdoor terrace with a 270-degree view of Victoria Harbour, where you can sit back and enjoy a broad range of craft beers, an extensive wine selection, oak barrel-aged cocktails, and innovative bar snacks.
A trendy Hung Hom gem offering impressive cocktails and unobstructed views
Red Sugar
Photograph: Courtesy Kerry Hotel Hong Kong
Hung Hom
2/F, The St. Regis Macao, The Londoner Macao, Estrada do Istmo, s/n, Cotai, Macao; +853 8113 1300; thestregisbarmacao.com
Located on the second floor of The St. Regis Macao, the bar exudes the classic refinement of New York’s Gilded Age. Expect delightful surroundings and exquisite cocktails evoking the vibrant story of New York, paired with live jazz music, The St. Regis’ signature bespoke service, and delectable dishes prepared by their talented chefs. When dusk settles, guests are treated to the Violet Hour with iconic Martini servings from the beverage trolley. With St. Regis being popularly known as the birthplace of the Bloody Mary, its Macao outpost also celebrates this tradition with a locally inspired twist called Maria do Leste.
An elegant destination bar in Macao’s Cotai strip
The St. Regis Bar Macao
Photograph: Courtesy The St. Regis Macao
MACAO
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Shop A, LG/F Wah Shin House, 6-10 Shin Hing St, Central; 2813 5787; coa.com.hk
Mezcal is certainly a big thing in Hong Kong these days, and Coa is agave spirit’s number one evangelist – not only in the city but also in the region – especially after nabbing the top spot in Asia’s 50 Best Bars in 2021 and 2022. The extensive mezcal, tequila, and raicilla menu here is the best of its kind. Owner and founder Jay Khan is hugely affable and incredibly knowledgeable about mixology and agave spirits, and can help you choose the perfect drink, even if you’re not familiar with Mexico’s native liquors.
Excellent Oaxaca-inspired cocktail bar
Coa
Photograph: Calvin Sit
2/F, Rosewood Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui; 3891 8732; darkside.hk
DarkSide is the flagship bar of Rosewood Hong Kong that pays tribute to this neighbourhood’s history. The food and drink menus are filled to the brim with options, including port, Cognac from the barrel, and a wide selection of premium spirits such as whisky and Armagnac. Try DarkSide’s signature forgotten classic cocktails or any of the well-balanced drinks from their new conceptual mahjong-inspired menu.
Rosewood Hong Kong’s intimate Jazz Age-inspired bar
DarkSide
Photograph: Courtesy DarkSide
Tsim Sha Tsui
Wan Chai
Shop 6, G/F The Galleria, 9 Queen’s Rd C, Central; 2133 1137; kyleandbain.com
Located on the mezzanine floor of the American restaurant Margo, Kyle & Bain is a nod to the history of Ice House Street and takes after the name of Scottish engineers William Kyle and John Bain, who patented the first ice machine in Hong Kong. Along with Martini variations, the menu presents modern riffs inspired by famous American institutions that gave birth to classic libations. Taste classic cocktails with Kyle & Bain twists from Old Fashioned to Paloma, Manhattan to Lychee Martini.
Hong Kong’s first Martini-centric bar
Kyle & Bain
Photograph: Courtesy Kyle & Bain
Causeway Bay
Sai Ying Pun
L/G, Amber Lodge, 23 Hollywood Rd, Central; 9880 7995; penicillinbar.com
Taking up 1,520sq ft of the former Buddha Lounge on Hollywood Road is the latest concept from The Old Man Hong Kong’s founders Agung Prabowo and Roman Ghale. Named after the modern classic cocktail, Penicillin (made with a strong dose of Scotch, honey, lemon, ginger, and a splash of smoky Islay whisky), and the antibiotic in which the cocktail got its name, the bar creates drinks with an eco-friendly twist that not only cures any cocktail craving but hopefully the bar industry’s quandaries on sustainability.
The first eco-conscious bar in Hong Kong
Penicillin
Photograph: Courtesy Penicillin
25/F, Mandarin Oriental, 5 Connaught Rd C, Central; 2825 4001; mandarinoriental.com
Helmed by award-winning mixologist Devender Sehgal, The Aubrey offers three bar experiences where guests can enjoy Japanese-inspired drinks, Champagne and sake, and bespoke cocktails in the Omakase Cocktail Bar. Expect a cocktail menu spotlighting the world of shochu, which allows you to travel through taste and explore four Japanese prefectures, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Okinawa, and Kagoshima, known for their distinct shochu offerings.
Mandarin Oriental’s Japanese izakaya offering three bar experiences
The Aubrey
Photograph: Courtesy The Aubrey
Lobby, Kowloon Shangri-La, Hong Kong, 64 Mody Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui E; 2733 8756; shangri-la.com/hongkong/kowloonshangrila/dining/bars-lounges/tapas-bar
Discover a wide selection of international wines at Kowloon Shangri-La’s Tapas Bar. Offering scenic views of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong Island, this wine bar welcomes guests to enjoy glasses of wine and international tapas inside the stylish setting of the bar, where they can catch the action of the open kitchen or outdoors for a breezy wine and dine evening under the stars.
Experience authentic Spanish flavours in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui
Tapas Bar
Photograph: Courtesy Kowloon Shangri-la
Blk 01, Police Headquarters, Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Rd, Central; 2848 3000; cantina.com.hk
Sitting within the heritage site of Tai Kwun, The Dispensary nods to Hong Kong’s colonial past with experiential cocktails that blend together elements of the East and West. Guests can enjoy drinks inside the stylish lounge, or head out onto the verandahs overlooking Tai Kwun’s Parade Ground. Nestled between two restaurants, The Chinese Library and Cantina, the bar stands today in the old police officers’ mess where the force was rumoured to have their off-duty bar.
Elegant bar that mixes East and West
The Dispensary
Photograph: Courtesy The Dispensary
The Silveri Hong Kong-MGallery, 16 Tat Tung Rd, Tung Chung; 3602 8963; thesilveri-hongkong.com
Encircled by the lush green hills and tranquil waters of Lantau, The Pavilion at The Silveri Hong Kong-MGallery is the perfect place for sunset cocktails and casual bites. Enjoy a drink out on the expansive lawn, and choose from the bar’s meticulously crafted cocktail menu, which features refined contemporary cocktails made using homemade infused spirits, along with a curated list of boutique wines and spirits.
A scenic drinking den offering views of Lantau Island
The Pavilion
Photograph: Courtesy The Silveri
Tung Chung
1/F-2/F, 62 Johnston Rd, Wan Chai; 2866 3444; woocheongteahouse.com
Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century heritage building, the bar at Woo Cheong Tea House is a stylish spot to relax and have fun get-togethers with your nearest and dearest. Head to the terrace and delight in their tea-infused cocktails inspired by Cantonese cuisine.
Bask in history while savouring refined tea-infused cocktails
Woo Cheong Tea House
Photograph: Courtesy The Woo Cheong Tea House
Bar of the Year Best Hotel Bar Reader’s Choice award
Trailblazer Award
Best Cocktail Programme Best Sustainable Cocktail
Best New Bar
Jay Khan
Bartender of the Year
Gagan Gurung
L/G, Sunny Bldg, 57-59 Wyndham St, Central; 31968860
The Aftermath is not just a bar but rather a community for artists to explore their craft. It showcases a curated live music programme of independent local bands with the occasional night of comedy and cabaret thrown in. Paired with draft beers – including a constant lineup of artisanal craft beers – The Aftermath is a perfect place for those looking for a chilled night out with friends.
This friendly venue holds live events from poetry, quiz nights, and stand-up comedy
The Aftermath
Photograph: Facebook/TheAftermathBar
2/F, The Luxe Manor, 39 Kimberley Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui; 3763 8778; dadalounge.com.hk
As the name suggests, Dada Bar and Lounge embodies the artistic anarchy and whimsical flair of the Dadaism art movement. With bizarrely hip décor that makes you feel like you have stepped into a world entirely removed from the dense, neon-lit vibe of Hong Kong, the bar hosts live music gigs every weekend featuring independent jazz bands, which takes the theatrical atmosphere of the place to a whole new level.
A unique cocktail lounge with an artsy interior
Dada Bar + Lounge
Photograph: Courtesy Dada Bar + Lounge
Shop 10-G1, Tai Kwun, 10 Hollywood Rd, Central; 9359 0999; sandshospitality.com/portfolio/dragonfly
Located inside the historic Tai Kwun complex, Dragonfly is a cocktail lounge with an ambience inspired by the bohemian and art nouveau movements of the 19th and 20th centuries. Decorated with stained glass throughout their venue to create twinkling and dreamy lighting, Dragonfly has an out-of-this-world ambience. Catch live music performances on Friday and Saturday nights while you sip on their cocktail offerings.
A multicoloured cocktail bar that will transport you out of this world
Dragonfly
Photograph: Courtesy Calvin Sit
2/F, Printing House, 6 Duddell St, Central; 2116 8949; mingfathouse.com/foxglove
There are numerous venues in town vying to capture the speakeasy cool that personified the Jazz Age and the sense of a night out being a real ‘event’, but few pull it off as effortlessly as Foxglove. This spot hosts live events that run a gamut of genres, including Latino and world music, but it’s the jazz nights that they’re renowned for and are always top quality.
A speakeasy-style gastropub reminiscent of bygone eras
Foxglove
Photograph: Courtesy Foxglove
L/G, 1-13 Hollywood Rd, Central; 6202 0000; theironfairies.com
Decorated with thousands of butterflies dangling from their ceiling, The Iron Fairies is a picturesque bar and lounge with a fairytale concept. Not only will you get to enjoy music performed by their house band, but The Iron Fairies also invites DJs to play an eclectic range of music from all around the world, from African, Latin, Indian, and K-pop.
A drinking hideaway that’ll transport you into a fairytale- like universe
The Iron Fairies
Photograph: Courtesy The Iron Fairies
11A Ashley Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui; 2116 8949
Ned Kelly’s has attained legendary status for its fun, no-frills, unfussy atmosphere. With a live show that takes in a load of jazz and blues classics – presented with the kind of old-school flair that you don’t often see around (you haven’t lived until you’ve seen a grown man play a teapot as an instrument) – this is one of the best nights out you can have in Hong Kong.
One of Hong Kong’s oldest pubs with a grungy vibe
Ned Kelly’s Last Stand
Photograph: Joshua Lin
B/F, On Lok House, 39-43 Hollywood Rd, Central; 6029 1530
Step underground into live music restaurant Quality Goods Club, sibling to Shady Acres and Honky Tonks Tavern. Your night of entertainment starts as live music performances take place from dinner service until 10pm, before DJ sets that range from disco, house, soul, Latin tunes, and more take over until late into the evening.
An underground den that lets you dance the night away to global music
Quality Goods Club
Photograph: Courtesy Quality Goods Club
1/F, Henan Bldg, 90 Jaffe Rd, Wan Chai; 3692 5933; thewanch.hk
With over 35 years as a historic institution of Hong Kong’s live music scene, The Wanch is back with a vengeance to bring the rock ‘n’ roll energy to Wan Chai. At a stone’s throw from their previous location, The Wanch has transformed from a live-music venue holding 20 at an intimate squeeze into a vibrant gastropub, along with a 183sq ft stage fully kitted out with high-quality audio, visual, and lighting equipment to hold live performances.
A historic music club revamped with a brand new look
The Wanch
Photograph: Cherry Chan
13/F, Luk Yu Bldg, 24-26 Stanley St, Central; 5546 8540; xxvhr.com
Headed by passionate mixologist Kenzo Lee, 25:00 (Twenty Fifth Hour) serves well-thought-of cocktails inspired by the concept of time. It is a perfect place if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind cocktail experience or a place to bring someone for a first romantic date. Along with an inventive drink selection, the bar presents a seasonal cocktail-tasting menu that is unlike anything you’ll try in the city. Lee’s creations apply cooking techniques that you’d usually see in progressive restaurant menus, so expect garnishes that act as a complementing snack.
A speakeasy-style cocktail bar tucked above Stanley Street
25:00
Photograph: Courtesy 25:00
M/F Landmark Mandarin Oriental, 15 Queen’s Rd C, Central; 2132 0110; mandarinoriental.com/en/hong-kong/the-landmark/dine/pdt
Hidden at the back of MO Bar in the Landmark Mandarin Oriental, accessed through a mock phone booth, PDT has established itself as one of the best bars in the city – let alone one of the best hidden bars. The cocktail menu is well-thought-out and serves a wonderful marriage of classics from PDT’s original home in New York and new creations that are sensitive to local tastes and ingredients here in Asia.
The world-famous New York cocktail bar’s second branch does the original proud
PDT (Please Don’t Tell)
Photograph: Courtesy PDT (Please Don’t Tell)
3/F, The Pottinger Hong Kong, 74 Queen’s Rd C, Central; room309.hk
Presented as an imaginary space within The Pottinger – every floor in the hotel has a maximum of six rooms, so 309 shouldn’t exist – Room 309 sits next to another of Antonio Lai’s establishments, The Envoy. Expect a menu of classic cocktails with new spins – quite literally, in a centrifuge – to produce a range of transparent cocktails. Try their Deep Sea Martini, a savoury treat made with re-distilled Oolong tea blended Scotch whisky, Cinzano Bianco, and homemade kombu tincture, served with Japanese soy sauce rice crackers and seaweed. They occasionally hold mixology pop-ups in collaboration with various spirit brands, so make sure to ask about these seasonal menus when you drop by.
Craft cocktail bar hidden inside The Pottinger hotel
Room 309
Photograph: Courtesy Room 309
32 Wyndham St, Central; 2565 5268; stockton.com.hk
With Stockton having been around for a while now, it may seem a little redundant to claim that the bar is ‘hidden’, but for some, it’s still easy to miss. Found at the top of a dark passage near the end of Wyndham Street, Stockton is decorated like an Edwardian gentlemen’s club furnished with leather sofas. One of the bar’s best attributes is its experimental streak, as demonstrated in the introduction of various new cocktail menus since opening back in 2014. Enjoy well thought out cocktails or sip on drams of whisky from their extensive collection and pair them with Stockton’s selection of Cuban cigars.
Wyndham Street’s OG hidden bar
Stockton
Photograph: Courtesy Stockton
LG/F, 37 Aberdeen St, Central; theoldmanhongkong.com
Located down an alley off Aberdeen Street, The Old Man Hong Kong has been essential to Asia’s cocktail scene since it opened in 2017. Just one year after its opening, it earned a spot in The World’s 50 Best Bars and took the top place at Asia’s 50 Best Bars in 2019. Helmed by Nikita Matveev as its operations manager, expect new takes on the bar’s Ernest Hemingway-themed menu and catch seasonal cocktails that run for a limited time.
Award-winning Ernest Hemingway-themed bar
The Old Man Hong Kong
Photograph: Courtesy The Old Man Hong Kong
B/F, 25 Staunton St, Tsun Wing Ln, Central; thewiseking.com
This intimate lounge was inspired by Alfonso X of Castile, aka the man who ‘invented’ tapas. It is the kind of place where you can settle in for a long night over good conversation and great drinks. The Wise King’s co-founder Sandeep Kumar crafted the bar’s menu with refreshing riffs and spirit-forward drinks. But Negroni is king when it comes to their perfect serves, so if you like this bitter aperitif, this place makes one of the best mixes in the city.
A cosy cocktail bar hidden in an alleyway off Staunton Street
The Wise King
Photograph: Courtesy The Wise King
12/F, FOCO, 48 Cochrane St, Central; 9881 7380; cnybar.hk
Located in the heart of the action in Central, CNY Bar – which stands for ‘chau naam yan’, or ‘stinky gentlemen’ in Cantonese – satisfies both whisky and music lovers. Guests can sip the night away on their choice of over 100 drams of whisky, signature drinks inspired by popular music or classic and modern cocktails. The experience is enhanced with quality hi-fi music through a combination of McIntosh and bespoke KRS 4351 10th anniversary speakers which is one set of three to ever be produced.
A sophisticated bar perfect for audiophiles
CNY Bar
Photograph: Courtesy CNY Bar
2/F, Amber Lodge, 23 Hollywood Rd, Central; 2639 9155; zzura.hk
Located on the second floor of Amber Lodge on Hollywood Road is a hidden oasis called Zzura. Inspired by the Sahara desert, the bar’s design features clean, minimal, and polished earthy hues with contrasting pops of green and orange on the furnishings – a far cry from the intimate and dimly lit speakeasy-style bars in the city. The bar serves signature cocktails with Middle-Eastern flavours crafted by a talented team of bartenders led by Tell Camellia’s Gagan Gurung.
Contemporary Middle-Eastern cocktail bar in Central
Zzura
Photograph: Courtesy Zzura
Rising Star
Kenzo Lee
G/F, 13 Staunton St, Central; 9880 1550
When you see the striking blue wall with a golden elevator-looking door on Staunton Street, you’ll know you are in the right place. Flick the small switch next to the door to gain entry into The Poet – a hidden cocktail haven serious about its tipples. Inside, the interior has a look and feel of a classic cocktail bar with backlit mirrors on cerulean walls, marble tables, gold finishes, and cosy corners. The drink menu is extensive, with selections of whiskies, gins, wines by the bottle, and signature cocktails inspired by the classics.
A speakeasy-style bar hiding behind a curious-looking door on Staunton Street
The Poet
Photograph: Courtesy The Poet
25-26/F, California Tower, 30-32 D’Aguilar St, Central; 3619 4282
Perched on the top floor of California Tower in Lan Kwai Fong, Faye dons a fun futuristic look and showcases live beats to workout those happy feet. But one of the best parts of the place is its sky deck overlooking the ever-bustling concrete jungle of Central. Enjoy afternoon drinks at the bar and stay until sundown for a night of revelry together with a trendy crowd that keeps the energetic vibe until past midnight.
A trendy nightclub overlooking Central’s skyline
Faye
Photograph: Facebook/faye.hkg
118/F, The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong, ICC, 1 Austin Rd W, West Kowloon; 2263 2270; ritzcarlton.com
A narrow, leathered elevator will take you up to the 118th floor of The Ritz-Carlton where the bar is located. Once inside, you’re immediately greeted by mood lighting, avant-garde seating, and walls of refracted swirling glass. What seals the deal for any guest, however, is the completely unobstructed view of Western Hong Kong Island, Victoria Harbour, and Kowloon. And, with one of the finest wine lists in town and a great cocktail programme, the drinks here are almost as impressive as the view. Here you can sip cold bubbly or sangria in the afternoon before moving to more spirited drinks from their signature cocktail menu while watching the skyline glitter during sundown.
The world’s highest bar offering unparalleled views of Victoria Harbour
Ozone
Photograph: Courtesy Ozone
26/F, The Murray, 22 Cotton Tree Dr, Central; 3141 8888; niccolohotels.com
Accessible by a private elevator, Popinjays is a restaurant and bar that is definitely worth the trudge up Cotton Tree Drive to reach The Murray. It’s a real stunner, encased in floor-to-ceiling windows with a wraparound terrace that looks out in all directions to surrounding high-rises like the HSBC Building and Bank of China Tower. Order from their wide selection of bird-themed cocktails and nibble on European bar bites.
The Murray’s contemporary bar and restaurant serving cocktails with a stunning view
Popinjays
Photograph: Courtesy Popinjays
25/F, Prince’s Building, 10 Chater Rd, Central; 2537 1388; sevva.hk
Sevva is an incredible space with a 360-degree balcony that offers sweeping views of the skyscrapers in Central and Admiralty, the harbour, and the opposing Kowloon skyline. Enjoy a sundowner and take your pick from the bar’s list of fine wines and classic cocktails. The furnishings, meanwhile, look as though they came straight out of a magazine and demand appreciation for their chic style and effortless elegance.
A stylishly decorated bar with a spacious terrace
Sevva
Photograph: Courtesy Sevva
27/F, The Park Lane Hong Kong, 310 Gloucester Rd, Causeway Bay; 2293 8888; parklane.com.hk
Sitting atop The Park Lane Hotel in Causeway Bay, Skye is easily one of our best picks among the best rooftop bars in town. Giving you an unobstructed view that stretches all the way to North Point, along with an excellent drinks menu featuring a selection of wines, cocktails inspired by zodiac signs, and more, Skye never fails to deliver a great night out.
A modern rooftop bar offering a lesser-known harbour view in Causeway Bay
Skye
Photograph: Courtesy Skye
32/F, East Hong Kong, 29 Taikoo Shing Rd, Taikoo Shing; 3968 3738; easthotels.com
Sugar is a spacious cocktail bar located on the 32nd floor of the Tai Koo business hotel East Hong Kong. The place is one of the best spots in the area to catch the sweeping views of the Victoria Harbour, which is amazing during sunset, especially if you’re enjoying a drink in hand. Order anything from their sundowners menu offering quality drinks at affordable prices, or sip on creative cocktails inspired by the venue’s decade-long history.
A rooftop lounge bar in Tai Koo
Sugar
Photograph: Courtesy Sugar
4/F, Eaton HK, 380 Nathan Rd, Kowloon; 2710 1866; terriblebaby.com
Terrible Baby, headed by bar manager Axel Gonzalez, shakes up a selection of fun, creative cocktails and spirits. Aside from their drink offering, the bar also boasts a spacious outdoor terrace covered in an abundance of greenery that contrasts with the rigid surroundings of the Jordan neighbourhood, and a Music Room where you can occasionally catch comedy shows and various live entertainment. Head here if you’re looking for that sweet escape above ground.
An effortlessly hip venue in Kowloon
Terrible Baby
Photograph: Courtesy Terrible Baby
17/F, H Zentre, 15 Middle Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui; 3427 2288; aqua.com.hk
Aqua has relocated to the 17th floor of the stylish H Zentre in Tsim Sha Tsui. The venue offers a new look and an even better view of Hong Kong’s skyline. It has a cocktail bar and two expansive outdoor terraces where patrons can sip on sundowners and dig into contemporary Italian and Japanese fare amidst a garden setting and harbour views in the backdrop.
A stylish resto-bar overlooking the city’s glistening skyline
Aqua
Photograph: Courtesy Aqua
West Kowloon
Taikoo Shing
Jordan
23/F, West Tower, 1 North Point Estate Ln, North Point; 3896 9898; hyattcentrichongkong.com
From lunch to afternoon drinks, dinner to late-night sips, Cruise offers an oasis to enjoy social connection, modern Asian fare, and cocktails while overlooking spectacular views of Victoria Harbour. The food and drink menus draw inspiration from South East and North East Asian cuisine – presenting sharing dishes with contemporary twists. Enjoy the view out on the terrace along with discounted prices on various cocktails during Cruise’s Sunset Sessions from 3pm to 6pm daily.
Enjoy quality food and drink against the backdrop of North Point’s harbour
Cruise Restaurant & Bar
Photograph: Courtesy Cruise Restaurant & Bar
North Point
R/F, H Queen’s, 80 Queen’s Rd C, Central; 5200 1683; plumehk.com
Plume is one of the latest al fresco destinations situated in the heart of Central. Located on the rooftop of H Queen’s, Plume allows you to get cosy in one of their seats with the Central skyline as the backdrop. Enjoy glasses of wine from their extensive wine list accompanied by contemporary French bar bites.
An al fresco bar from the group behind two-Michelin starred French restaurant Écriture
Plume
Photograph: Courtesy Plume
Best ROOFTOP BAR
18/F, H Zentre, 15 Middle Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui; 3428 8342; hutong.com.hk
The new Hutong restaurant at H Zentre features two stunning bars that specialise in botanical Chinese cocktails. Step through its traditional moon gate entrance, which leads to the laidback outdoor Moon Terrace boasting stunning panoramic views, and enjoy tipples at The Apothecary Bar, or discover the Main Dining Room Bar which features ornate, handcrafted lanterns. Be sure to sip on Hutong’s signature cocktails including Comfortably Numb – crafted with Sichuan peppers to create a lip-tingling sensation to pair with the restaurant’s Northern Chinese dishes.
Enjoy harbour views with exquisite Chinese botanical cocktails
Hutong
Photograph: Courtesy Hutong
G/F, Glenealy Tower, 1 Glenealy, Central; 6661 3161
Barcode (short for bar, coffee, and dessert) serves up cafe bites and hand-drip coffee in the morning, but once the clock strikes six, a hidden room will welcome you for some after-work drinks. The brains behind the bar is tea-cocktail connoisseur and Tell Camellia’s co-founder Gagan Gurung. Expect a menu of classic cocktails and coffee-focused signature drinks.
A hidden cafe-bar serving fun coffee cocktails
Barcode
Photograph: Courtesy Barcode
169 Sai Yeung Choi St N, Prince Edward; 6711 5971; coffeeanalog.hk
This place is a must-visit for whisky buffs. Visitors can enjoy hand-drip coffee brews or a double ristretto – highly concentrated espresso coffee – in the morning before sipping on whisky once the bar opens at night. The whisky bar is run by online liquor retailer Malt Cask, so expect over a hundred bottles of independently bottled whiskies, limited-edition releases, and brands that will tickle any whisky enthusiast. The cafe slash bar doesn’t provide much food on the menu aside from a rotating selection of pastries, cakes, and other desserts.
A cosy cafe and bar for whisky enthusiasts
Coffee Analog
Shop A, G/F, 8 Aberdeen St, Central; 9199 3596; dio.com.hk
Located at the tip of Aberdeen Street and Gough Street intersection, Dio is an intimate bar serving spirit-forward classic cocktails with an Asian twist, a selection of liquor, sake, and wine, including back vintage wines which customers can buy to consume on the premises or to takeaway. The bar regularly hosts guest bartender shifts from various brands and bars, be sure to drop by to catch limited-edition cocktails when they hold these events.
Sip on quality coffee and well-made cocktails
Dio
Photograph: Courtesy Dio
1/F, Hilltop Plaza, 49 Hollywood Rd, Central; 9225 6639; doubleshot.hk
Doubleshot is a cafe and cocktail bar created by the team of the coffee roastery Cupping Room. Located along the bustling Hollywood Road, the venue makes specialty brews, serves alcoholic beverages, and offers an all-day dining service. The signature cocktail Spent Martini is a variation of the classic Espresso Martini, and uses sustainable bar practice by utilising used coffee grounds and sweeteners from unsold almond croissants. The result? A unique Martini with a delicate smooth foam which brings the fruitiness of coffee to the fore, before an earthy finish.
A spot to relax amidst the hustle and bustle of Central
Doubleshot by Cupping Room
192A Hollywood Rd, Sheung Wan; 2687 6263
Named after the Japanese word for the five senses, Gokan Lounge is a cosy cafe that sources coffee beans from around the world to offer a myriad of coffee items, as well as Japanese teas, sakes, and specialty cocktails. From coffee infused mocktails to Japanese twists on classic cocktails, Gokan Lounge’s offerings are skillfully crafted by their baristas. Pair your coffees and cocktails with a variety of Japanese desserts found on their menu, such as homemade dango and puddings.
A cafe that offers Japanese-inspired flavours
Gokan Lounge
15 Old Bailey St, Central; 9666 2573
Ponty Cafe takes the fun vibe of its sister venue – the grungy, American-style bar The Pontiac located next door – and adds coffee and hearty bites into the mix. After you chow down on stacks of buttermilk pancakes or sausage with biscuits and gravy, make sure to try out their cocktails, such as the Dive Bar Bloody, or the Iced Spanish Coffee, made with their house-blended cold brew.
An all-day cafe with boozy twists
Ponty Cafe
G/F, 16 Tsing Fung St, Tin Hau; 9181 1193
Enjoy coffee by day and cocktails by night at Tin Hau’s pet-friendly cafe and bar Superhooman. Located next to boutique hotel Tuve, this new hangout spot features a pan-Asian food menu and craft cocktails. The cocktail programme offers a selection of signature drinks, including Gold Fashioned that uses honey as sweetener, and the deep and rich Chocolate Vieux Carre.
A pet-friendly hangout with craft cocktails
Superhooman
Photograph: Courtesy Superhooman
Prince Edward
Tin Hau
Best cafe BAR
Sheung Wan
Shop GF-04, G/F, Art Park, West Kowloon Cultural District, Tsim Sha Tsui; 2697 8938; fb.com/rest.coffee.gin
This intimate, burgundy-and-gold-hued lounge was inspired by Alfonso X of Castile, aka the man who ‘invented’ tapas. This is the kind of place where you can settle in for a long night over good conversation and great drinks. The Wise King’s co-founder Sandeep Kumar crafted the bar’s menu with refreshing riffs and spirit-forward drinks. One of our favourite cocktails is a unique rendition of the Bloody Maria called Anger, made with porcini mushroom-infused tequila and served in a red pepper rimmed glass.
Where coffee meets gin
Rest Coffee Gin
LG/F, Hilltop Plaza, 49 Hollywood Rd, Central; 2672 8255; 121bc.hk
This osteria and enoteca originally opened on Peel Street as a sister restaurant to the now-closed 121BC Cantina & Enoteca in Sydney. Now relocated in their wine-cellar-style underground Hollywood Road location, the spot offers an intimate space for gourmands and oenophiles. Here you can savour seasonal Italian dishes and pair them with wines from the restaurant's extensive wine list, highlighting natural, organic, and biodynamic wines sourced directly from wine producers in Italy. If you need help with your orders, the friendly staff will always recommend the best wine pairing to go with your meal.
An intimate spot serving up quality Italian food and wine
121BC
Photograph: Courtesy 121BC
Shop C, G/F, 1 Second St, Sai Ying Pun; 3460 5863; brut.com.hk
Run by Camille Glass and George Kwok, this intimate wine bar in Sai Ying Pun highlights a natural wine list sourced from organic and biodynamic farmers around the world. It's a place where you can relax and discover interesting new wines without being intimidated by a vast list of labels. Their wine selections change regularly and are mostly served by the glass. Pair wines with their creative sharing plates, which go especially well with the biodynamic wines on offer.
A tapas bar serving up natural and biodynamic wines
Brut!
Photograph: Nicholas Wong
2/F, 22 Staunton St, Central; 2539 7999; jamessucklingwinecentral.com
Founded by world-famous wine critic James Suckling, the bar covers a wide selection of his 100-point rated wines during his decades-long career as a wine critic. Here oenophiles can indulge in quality wine with an emphasis on Italian wines from Tuscany, Piedmont, and Veneto regions, as well as Bordeaux wines and Port. Those interested to learn more about wine can take advantage of their regularly scheduled open-tasting sessions. Always check their site for updates on the latest wine promotions and happy hour deals.
Access a stellar selection of 100-point rated wines
James Suckling Wine Central
Photograph: Courtesy James Suckling Wine Central
62 Hollywood Rd, Central; 2776 6070; lacabane.hk
An intimate and permanently buzzing space like something out of a Parisian arrondissement. La Cabane is a great place for anyone seeking an extensive natural wine list – additive-free wines without pesticides and chemicals and made with the least possible sulphates. You can find hundreds of different wines from around the world sourced directly from individual winemakers and small artisanal growers. Drink wine by the glass from their monthly updated wine list, and if you’re feeling hungry, the kitchen serves a rotating menu of French dishes along with platters of charcuterie and artisan cheeses.
One of Central’s cosiest spots for a good glass of wine and decent French food
La Cabane Wine Bistro
G/F, Newman House, 35-45 Johnston Rd, Wan Chai; 2782 6689; lebistrowinebeast.com
Le Bistro Winebeast offers a superb selection of French and organic wines from their retail shop, which you can pair with their modern French dishes. The wine pairing menu frequently changes, so you can expect a different experience every time you visit. You may also catch occasionally scheduled wine dinners showcasing various winemakers from different parts of the world, and learn about different bottlings while enjoying a specially curated meal.
A modern French bistro offering a selection of French terroir and organic wines
Le Bistro Winebeast
Photograph: Courtesy Le Bistro Winebeast
9 Swatow St, Wan Chai; 2673 7636; lqv-group.com
This cosy Parisian bar in Wan Chai is the global brand Le Quinze Vins’ first wine bar in Asia, and it’s a perfect haven for discerning drinkers of fine French wine. Their cellar boasts an impressive selection of French bottles with a menu that offers wine maps and information from the wine regions – a handy guide for anyone ordering from the extensive list. Based on our experience, a glass of Burgundy’s full-bodied Gevrey-Chambertin is always a great start. The bar’s location in Wan Chai is just opposite its sister fromagerie La Cremerie which stocks a wide selection of farmhouse cheeses from France, simply walk across the street and bring some cheese to pair with your vino.
A cosy Parisian wine specialist
LQV Wan Chai - Le Bar & La Cave
Photograph: Courtesy Le Quinze Vins/Harold de Puymorin
7/F, The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, 15 Queen’s Rd C, Central; 2132 0055; mandarinoriental.com/en/hong-kong/the-landmark/dine/somm
Somm offers a huge selection of over 1,600 Champagnes, European wines, New World wines, and an interesting collection of rare and refined sakes. The place is perfect for oenophiles and sake enthusiasts who want to explore the vast world of wine and nihonshu. Catch their weekend brunch, where Somm’s chef de cuisine Terry Ho has created a menu that includes sharing platters, a choice of main courses, and desserts, along with free-flow options of Champagne, sake, and sommelier-recommended white and red wines.
The Landmark Mandarin Oriental’s casual restaurant and wine bar
Somm
Photograph: Courtesy Somm
3/F, 1 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central; 2550 0345; terroirsbylqv.com
Located above Lyndhurst Terrace, Terroirs by LQV covers 2,000sq ft of space with a bar, dining area, and two al fresco terraces. The bar offers over 2,000 wine selections from a range of varietals concentrated on Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne regions, and rare vintage liquors from the owner’s personal collection. Pair your wines with delicious pastries, artisanal cold cut platters, cheese boards, and classic French plates made with the finest ingredients.
A Central wine bar and lounge focused on French wines
Terroirs by LQV
Photograph: Courtesy Terroirs by LQV
Shop G14 and G15, Lee Tung Avenue, 200 Queen’s Rd E, Wan Chai; 2386 8933 (Whatsapp only); thebakerandthebottleman.hk
The Baker & The Bottleman (from the team behind the British restaurant Roganic) on Lee Tung Avenue is a great place for morning coffee breaks and after-work drinks. The ground floor bakery serves freshly baked treats like scones, cakes, bread, sandwiches, and cookies, as well as locally-sourced coffee, soft drinks, juices, and loose-leaf teas. The second floor wine bar is where the action happens in the evening. Led by master sommelier Pierre Brunelli, the bar features a selection of organic and biodynamic wines from sustainable and ethical winegrowers around the world. Cocktail lovers can also order classic cocktails from the menu. If you want to bring the experience back home, order anything from the menu and grab a bottle from The Bottleman’s hand-picked wine selection available on the ground floor shop.
A bakery by day and wine bar by night
The Baker & The Bottleman
Photograph: Courtesy The Baker & The Bottleman
25/F, H Code, 45 Pottinger St, Central; 3568 1397; clarencehk.com
Chef Olivier Elzer, whom you may know from L’Envol at The St. Regis Hong Kong, has launched his own restaurant Clarence on the 25th floor of H Code. The expansive space offers multiple dining areas, including a raw fish and wine bar, a private wine cellar ‘Sommelier Room’ for dedicated pairings, and The Lounge, where guests can enjoy cigars. Indulge in a creative menu that playfully celebrates French classics using Asian cooking methods and sip on glasses of wine from their comprehensive selection.
An expansive space offering rare and exquisite wines and contemporary French cuisine
Clarence
Photograph: Courtesy Clarence
Best Restaurant Bar
Best Wine Bar
G/F, 21 Tung St, Sheung Wan; 5998 3088
This beautifully decorated craft beer bar often draws crowds that spill out onto Cat Street in Sheung Wan. Blue Supreme specialises in funky, wild, and live brews born out of Belgian traditions – think farmhouse ales, saisons, spontaneously fermented lambics, sour brown ales, and more. Live beers not your thing? The bar also serves beers from local breweries that are a little more accessible.
A tasteful beer bar nestled among the antique stores of Upper Lascar Row
Blue Supreme
Shop D, G/F, 22-24 Tai Ping Shan St, Sheung Wa; 6012 6845; craftissimo.hk
This bar-slash-bottle shop in residential Poho is a real winner. Scan around and take your pick from the shop’s well-stocked fridges. IPAs, stouts, sours, wheat beers, and ciders – everything you could ever want is represented here. Plus, Craftissimo’s beer selection is always expanding with new imports and local releases, so there’s always something new to try. There are also beers on tap available from local breweries like Young Master, Carbon Brews, and Black Kite.
A bar and bottle shop with a vast selection of brews
Craftissimo
Shop 1, New Fortune House, 3-5 New Praya, Kennedy Town; 3500 5870; grain.com.hk
Grain, in partnership with one of Hong Kong’s top craft brewers Gweilo, offers over 20 taps with a rotating selection of craft beers by Gweilo and other breweries. The bar’s research and development brewing facility, called Gweilo Brewlab, allows beer lovers to try out newly developed brews before they’re released, as well as an area to host beer workshops and tastings to learn more about brewing beer. If you’re not in the mood for some hoppy action, Grain offers cocktails on tap, including refreshing pineapple mojitos, spritz, and gin and tonic made with Gweilo Gin and Capi Tonic.
A gastropub and brewlab in Kennedy Town
Grain
Photograph: Courtesy Grain
Shop 1, G/F, The Centrium, 60 Wyndham St, Central; 5409 4840
Carbon Brews, one of the largest breweries in Hong Kong, has opened its first taproom in the city. Unlike the usual beer bars you’ll see in Hong Kong, Carbon Brews sports a contemporary design which feels like you’re stepping into a club more than a regular taproom – reflecting the funky and modern look that the brand is known for. Drink craft beers – from IPAs, sour ales, stout, and any of the available brews from their 28-tap system – and munch on grub from their well thought out food menu filled with dishes with a Mediterranean twist.
A local craft beer brand’s first taproom in Hong Kong
Carbon Brews Central
Photograph: Courtesy Carbon Brews Central
88 Shantung St, Mong Kok; 2911 4662
Moonkok is a photogenic taproom located on Shantung Street in Mong Kok. Inspired by Cantonese culture, the bar’s interior is full of vermillion and emerald green, resembling elements of a Chinese temple. Choose craft brews from a selection of 12 beers on tap featuring local brews and guest additions. We thoroughly enjoy escaping the bustle of the city and perching at the bar and getting a cold one poured, accompanied by some of the tasty snacks on offer.
Craft beer bar inspired by Chinese mythology and Hong Kong culture
Moonkok
Mong Kok
Shop H01, 9 Kingston St, Fashion Walk, Causeway Bay; 5648 0770; seconddraft.hk
After closing its Tai Hang spot, Second Draft opened its new home in Causeway Bay, featuring its signature Star Ferry-inspired aesthetics. Twenty-three taps are available in the venue, showcasing Young Master Brewery’s signature brews, its ready-to-drink line of highballs, Higherthan, and other beers from local and overseas craft breweries, as well as a selection of natural wines and cocktails. On the food menu, expect Hong Kong-inspired gastro-pub fare like Jer Jer beef tendons and their signature Tai Hang Fries.
A gastropub with local flair
Second Draft
Photograph: Courtesy Second Draft
19 Hak Po St, Mong Kok; 2468 2010; thealeproject.com
The Ale Project (TAP) has a relaxed vibe that will make anyone feel welcomed. With a well thought out selection of locally brewed beers, esoteric brews fermented from wild yeast, and not forgetting their collection of beer from international breweries from New Zealand or the USA, there’s bound to be something hoppy that will suit your taste.
An unconventional taproom serving craft beers from Hong Kong and overseas
TAP: The Ale Project
Photograph: Courtesy TAP: The Ale Project
Shop A, G/F, 45-53 Graham St, Garley Bldg, Central; 2543 1941; theglobe.com.hk
A venerable institution housed in a surprisingly spacious location – at least for Central – The Globe is one of the best places in Hong Kong to settle in with a pint. A member of the Craft Beer Association of Hong Kong and home to more beers than you can shake a stick at, The Globe is a must-visit for any hop head. If all the many various brews aren’t enough for you, be sure to snare one of the unmissable homemade pies.
Traditional English gastropub with an extensive beer selection
The Globe
Photograph: Courtesy The Globe
62 Peel St, SoHo, Central; 5602 6457
From a small pet project that grew and made a considerable following in Lamma Island, Yardley Brothers Craft Beer is now one of the most popular beer breweries in the city. They’ve expanded their offering with a cafe bar, Yardleys, on the bustling Peel Street. The bar offers 12 taps focused on their signature brews, including their famous sours, ales, stouts, lagers, and limited-release barrel-aged selections. Head there for quality brews and join their fun quiz nights, where you can win a whole keg of beer, bottled beers, shots, and other treats.
Craft beer bar known for its signature sour beers
Yardleys Taproom
Photograph: Yardleys Taproom
Kennedy Town
Best Beer Bar
Lobby, The Langham Hong Kong, 8 Peking Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui; 2132 7898; langhamhotels.com
From London to Hong Kong, this world-famous bar concept at The Langham features a romantic Art Deco interior and a setting as sophisticated as their cocktails. The bar houses one of the largest gin collections in all of Hong Kong, with a curated list of almost 450 interesting gins from around the world. Along with gin and tonic specialties, Artesian also whips up elegant signature gin cocktails, as well as small batch crafted cocktails featuring housemade infusions.
A contemporary Art Deco-inspired bar with elegant G&Ts
Artesian
Photograph: Courtesy Artesian
Shop B31A, Landmark Atrium, 15 Queen’s Rd C, Central; 2111 9449; mingfathouse.com
Dr. Fern’s Gin Parlour is a bar tucked away inside Landmark. The speakeasy-like venue houses over 250 gins and showcases premium bottles from around the world. You can enjoy them straight up or in an array of creative cocktails. Choose your prefered flavour profile or taste your way through a few, there’s something for everyone. Dr. Fern’s also offers a variety of bar bites, including charcuterie or mixed cheese boards.
A hidden bar with fun cocktails
Dr. Fern’s Gin Parlour
Photograph: Courtesy Dr. Fern’s Gin Parlour
The Magistracy, Tai Kwun, 1 Arbuthnot Rd, Central; 2252 3177; themagistracyhongkong.com
Head out from Magistracy Dining Room to find Botanical Garden, a lush green terrace that presents a wide selection of gin and tonics. The bar presents a categorised gin menu, organised based on citrus, floral, herbal, as well as spiced notes and complements them with tonics. Their collection of gin includes brands such as Ophir, Sipsmith, Plymouth, and many more. This intimate al fresco venue is a little slice of paradise and will provide you with a tranquil escape from the city.
An idyllic gin bar tucked away in a historical building
Botanical Garden
L/G, Nam Cheong House, 129 Second St, Sai Ying Pun; 9835 5061; pingpong129.com
Turning an old ping pong hall on the unassuming streets of Sai Ying Pun into a stylish Spanish gin bar has proven to be a stroke of genius. There’s nothing more appealing to a crowd of hipsters and creatives than a reprocessed space that still features touches of the original, and adequately combines grit with taste. The bar does a decent job of giving a stage to Spain’s excellent gin scene by featuring some of the country’s best variations of the spirit and cocktails that appropriately complement the unique characteristics of each gin.
An urban chic bar to enjoy a Spanish gin experience
Ping Pong 129 Gintoneria
Photograph: Courtesy Magistracy Dining Room and Botanical Garden
Shop GF-04, G/F, Art Park, West Kowloon Cultural District, Tsim Sha Tsui; 2697 8938
To cater to disparate tastes, Rest Coffee Gin is a coffee shop that turns into a gin bar at night. In the morning, coffee is brewed from one of ten different kinds of single-origin coffee beans, and after sunset, you can sample almost a hundred different gins from their collection with an equally interesting and flavourful tonic. Make sure to try one of the signature tea cocktails as the bar offers gin that is infused with teas such as Darjeeling and even a unique bush tea to try.
S109-S113, 1/F, Block A, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen St, Central; 2656 6552; sake-central.com
Sake Central is co-founded by Hong Kong’s resident ‘Sake Samurai’ Elliot Faber. There are hundreds of different types of sake to choose from here, whether you want regular brews or something rare. For a fun learning experience, try their daily Saketen 10 Ochoko Challenge, where you can taste 10 different bottles of sake within 90 minutes; the best part is once you have tasted all 10, you can ask for refills on your favourite serves. If you want to explore sake pairing, order the tasting menu showcasing ten dishes and ten kinds of sake. Bottles are also available for purchase in the retail area. Don’t forget to catch their seasonal sales to get good deals on quality bottles.
Home to one of the broadest selections of sake in Hong Kong
Sake Central
Photograph: Courtesy Sake Central
For a one-of-a-kind sake pairing experience, Godenya is the perfect place to book a seat. The venue is popular for its authentic charm but what people come back for is the owner’s gracious hospitality. Shiya Goshima, more affectionately known as Goshi-san, is a passionate chef and sake expert who talks about sake with a twinkle in his eye. The restaurant’s menu features dishes explicitly designed for sake pairing, with each drink carefully chilled or warmed to optimum temperature.
A top sake-pairing Japanese restaurant
Godenya
Photograph: Courtesy Godenya
Flat A, 4/F, Winner Commercial Bldg, 401-403 Lockhart Rd, Wan Chai; 3188 9201; nomihk.co
Heya is a cosy little nook on the fourth floor of the Winner Commercial Building on Lockhart Road. This 18-seater drinking den serves over 30 labels of sake – which you can order per glass or bottle for dine-in or takeaway – sourced from lesser-known breweries in Japan, along with shochu, whisky, fruit liquor, and Suntory beers on draft. Light bites are available on the menu but what’s great about the space is you can bring your own food (no extra fee), and co-owner Sean Li will gladly help you pair your food with the right bottle of sake. You can also order bottles at an affordable retail price, and the bar will deliver them to you for free, even on single purchases to Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and New Territories.
Relaxed sake experience with lesser-known labels
Heya ( )
Photograph: Courtesy Heya
G/F, 2 Glenealy, Central; 2388 7717; toritama.hk
Imported from Tokyo, Toritama is a neighbourhood yakitori joint that offers authentic Japanese flavours. The eatery serves chicken parts that are grilled to perfection, including some lesser-known cuts such as achilles tendon, knee gristle, calf muscle, oesophagus, and more. Sink your teeth into grilled meats and pair it with different types of sake available from their extensive menu. They offer sake by the glass or bottles that will set you back from a few hundred dollars to thousands depending on your preference.
A neighbourhood yakitori joint serving quality sake
Toritama Hong Kong
Photograph: Courtesy Toritama Hong Kong
G/F, 1 Gordon Rd, Tin Hau; 6405 0770; wakosakeonline.com
A trendier sister venue of Wako Sake Bar, this new concept in Tin Hau combines coffee and sake under one roof. Enjoy freshly made sushi in a dedicated area complete with futuristic features such as an LED wall and a mirrored ceiling that reflects Japanese landscapes. The striking interior will definitely make your experience here a memorable one.
A posh sake specialist with a dedicated sushi venue
Wako Sake Labo • Sushi
Photograph: Courtesy Wako Sake Bar
G/F, 182 Wellington St (entrance on Kau U Fong), Central; godenya.com
へや
6/F, 1 Knutsford Terrace, Tsim Sha Tsui; keyakihk.com/goshaku
Over at Knutsford Terrace in Tsim Sha Tsui, Goshaku offers over 200 bottles of sake covering labels from 45 Japanese prefectures. Browse through a selection of sake from their lineup of large refrigerators containing an extensive collection arranged by geography and curated according to the seasons! They serve their sake by the glass, so you can explore more variants without having to purchase an entire bottle. For bites, dig into Japanese dishes, from sashimi, grilled items, and hot-pot bowls that are great to pair with sakes.
A Tsim Sha Tsui izakaya dedicated to sake
Goshaku
Photograph: Courtesy Goshaku
7/F, Mody House, 30 Mody Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui; 2111 4444; barbuonasera.com
Cross over to Tsim Sha Tsui and grab a seat at Bar Buonasera, the Hong Kong branch of the famous Osaka bar by the same name. Take a seat by the bar and watch precise Japanese-style bartending in action led by Nick Tse and Ayako Miyake. The menu is filled to the brim with signature tipples and classic handcrafted cocktails. For whisky enthusiasts, enjoy a dram or two from over 100 whisky bottlings from around the world.
One of the best bars in TST serving hand-crafted cocktails and a great selection of whisky
Bar Buonasera
Photograph: Terence Lam
10/F, Cosmos Bldg, 8-11 Lan Kwai Fong, Central; 9379 7628; clubqing.com
This slice of zen is a cosy bolthole housing an impressive variety of whiskies, making it a go-to spot for whisky aficionados. Here you’ll find past and present Japanese whiskies from the likes of Yamazaki to Eigashima, and you’ll get to choose from a number of tasting flights if you’re looking to explore various drams. They also have an impressive Scotch collection that boasts rare and old expressions like Bowmore 1957, Macallan from the 30s, and closed distilleries, including Port Ellen and Brora. Expect to find stocks of IB whiskies made from collaborations with various brands and bars in the city and abroad.
A cosy bar in LKF housing one of the best collections of whisky in Hong Kong
Club Qing
Unit A, 2/F, 97 Wellington St, Central; 2424 3231
House Welley has an excellent collection of nearly 350 bottles of whiskies from Japan, Scotland, Ireland, Australia, and other world whiskies. Veering away from the usual gentleman’s club style, this bar exudes a more modern vibe that appeals to both whisky noobs and enthusiasts. It’s one of the few places in the city where you can taste exceptional and limited-edition bottles in tasting portions and at much lower prices, making hard-to-find bottlings accessible and approachable to a broader public. Expect to find single cask, limited edition, hard-to-find independent bottlings (IB), and distillery exclusive original bottlings (OB) from the likes of Yamazaki, Macallan, and vintage expressions from Bunnahabhain, Clynelish, Bowmore, and more.
Enjoy quality whiskies in a contemporary setting
House Welley Bar
Photograph: Courtesy House Welley Bar/Eric Ho
4/F, Kiu Yin Commercial Bldg, 361-363 Lockhart Rd, Wan Chai; 3571 9797; mizunarathelibrary.com
Tucked away inside a nondescript commercial building in Wan Chai, Mizunara is not the easiest bar to spot. But if you do, you’ll find over 600 bottles of whiskies from Japanese, Scottish, American, and Irish distilleries, and you can enjoy various whisky cocktails on the menu too. Headed by award-winning mixologist Masahiko Endo, the bar can create a custom cocktail for you with your preferred whisky. The drinks here aren’t exactly on the wallet-friendly end of the scale, but they are crafted with care, and you’re unlikely to find similar drinks elsewhere in town.
Hidden bar offering excellent Japanese cocktails and whiskies
Mizunara: The Library
G/F, InterContinental Grand Stanford, 70 Mody Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui; 2585 2545; hongkong.intercontinental.com
As one of the most swish whisky bars in town, this hotel bar houses an extensive collection of whiskies. The bar didn’t start off as a whisky-focused bar, but over the years, they have continually expanded its collection, which in turn attracted whisky enthusiasts looking for more varieties, especially since the InterContinental began hosting the annual Hong Kong Whisky Festival, which brought whisky experts from around the world together. The bar’s whisky collection includes bottles from Scottish, Japanese, and American distilleries, while their cocktail menu offers a number of well-made classics and seasonal offerings.
A 1920s-style hotel bar where whisky lovers frequent
Tiffany’s New York Bar
Photograph: Courtesy Tiffany’s New York Bar
G/F, 7-9 Shin Hing St, Central; 9889 8590; whisky-and-words.com
At the steps of Shin Hing Street, you’ll find the bar’s narrow wooden door with bold brass lettering that marks the bar’s name at the front entrance. The Whisky & Words space is intimate, and the interior is decked out in muted greys and faux wood decals. Their bottle collection includes rare and hard-to-find whiskies from Scotland, Japan, and Ireland. Aside from whisky, the bar also offers a selection of other spirits and cocktails that use gin and vodka as the base.
A fresh alternative to the city’s whisky bar scene
Whisky & Words
Shop 302, 3/F, Landmark Alexandra, 18 Chater Rd, Central; 3185 8396; ami-woodear.hk
Located on the third floor of Landmark, Wood Ear shares a space with Parisian restaurant Ami. The bar’s whisky collection spans over 400 labels sourced from auctions and private collectors all over the world. The menu offers whisky-based craft cocktails, a range of rare whiskies – including Hanyu Ichiro’s Malt The Colored Joker, Glen Grant 1955 60 YO La Maison Du Whisky, Martin’s 12 YO Circa 1960s, and Langs 1940’s Extra Special Old Liqueur Scotch - as well as an extensive list of delicious non-alcoholic drinks, and quality wines from their 2,000-bottle collection.
Sip on rare whiskies at this sleek and stylish bar
Wood Ear
Photograph: Courtesy Ami
25/F, AKI Hong Kong – MGallery, 239 Jaffe Rd, Wan Chai; 2121 5888
Uncle Ming's is one of the city’s newest whisky bars. The bar serves quality drams worldwide, complemented by city skyline views atop the boutique hotel AKI Hong Kong – MGallery. Whether you’re into Japanese whiskies, bourbon, and other premium malts, you can explore various whisky distilling countries through a range of flights – served on custom-made boards made from whisky barrels. The bar also provides a bottle-keep service to store unfinished portions of your bottle purchases for your later visit.
A whisky bar offering views of Wan Chai’s skyline
Uncle Ming’s
Photograph: Courtesy Uncle Ming's
