If there was any doubt that Hong Kong is back, just take a look at the nightlife scene, which has been booming with new openings of late. Below, find five of the best spots in town to sip, swirl and swig down your favourite drink of choice, be it a cocktail, fine wine or rare spirit from pre-WWII days.
Qura Bar
Boasting a front-row seat to the iconic Hong Kong skyline, Qura – a play off the word ‘curator’, a fictional, well-travelled connoisseur the bar’s concept is built around – is the place to go for rare spirits, expertly crafted cocktails and indulgent French bistro cuisine. Decked out in plush furny with vintage accents (look for the different sets of monkey lamps), this sleek and sultry bar/lounge at the Regent Hong Kong even has a sprawling cigar room at the back with harbour views to match.
Kinsman
Dining editor by day and bartender by night, the delightfully deadpan Gavin Yeung has collaborated with Singular Concepts on this Cantonese bar concept that pays homage to Hong Kong’s heritage and tradition through local spirits and cocktails. Wash them down with Canto-inspired eats like lap cheong platters with homemade pickles and shrimp toast with Kewpie. #IYKYK
Avoca
Head up a dedicated lift to the 38th floor of the new Mondrian Hong Kong hotel to find this lofty bar with stellar views over Victoria Harbour. Meaning “the meeting of waters,” Head of Bars Joe Villaneuva has created a set of cocktails inspired by Hong Kong’s iconic dishes and flavours. Yum, la!
Red Room
Tucked inside luxury shopping mall K11 Musea, this plush, red-themed speakeasy bar is hidden behind a wall of lockers (of all things). Enter to enjoy a range of vintage whiskies, cognac, cocktails and wines paired with moreish bar snacks. Into cigars? Light one up on the balcony and take in the views of the glittery Hong Kong skyline.
Dara
This well-loved Filipino restaurant has upgraded to a larger location in trendy Sai Ying Pun with four times the space, private karaoke room and industrial-chic vibes. Expect the same Filipino-inspired drinks by the talented Jon Bunoan (formerly of 8 1/2 Otto e Mezzo) along with classic ‘tails, whiskies, beers and spirits.
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