Hong Kong’s bar scene is one of the most active and innovative in Asia, often topping the list of Asia’s 50 Best Bars. The vibrant city welcomes new bars every year, giving locals and tourists alike something new to look forward to when it comes to nightlife. Impressively, some of these establishments present creative concepts that sound like elevator pitches instead of your cookie-cutter bars.
Simply put, Hong Kong is a dynamic playground for adventurous bar-hoppers and cocktail enthusiasts. If that sounds like you, we’ve gleaned several newly opened bars in 2024 that are worth a visit.
The Opposites
The Opposites is the latest offering from Tastings Group, which is also behind Quinary, VEA, and Room 309. As its name suggests, the bar is all about contrasts – particularly between its co-founders, Antonio Lai and Samuel Kwok. Both respected industry veterans in their own right, Lai and Kwok bring to the table their respective interpretations of classic cocktails. The former typically showcases playful molecular mixology techniques with all the bells and whistles, whilst the latter presents a more straightforward approach with no less mastery.
With eight cocktails on the menu for a total of 16 options, guests will feel like they’re the live audience of a cocktail competition. Watching them is only half the fun – you can even play judge amongst your companions for added entertainment! If you look closely, you may also spot differences between each team’s counters, from the setup to their tools and attire.
Address: LG/F, Hilltop Plaza, 49 Hollywood Rd, Central, Hong Kong
W theopposites.hk | F @theoppositeshk | I @theoppositeshk
Lockdown
Located adjacent to its sister bar, Penicillin, Lockdown is the brainchild of award-winning couple Agung and Laura Prabowo. The first thing most people will notice about the bar is its tongue-in-cheek entrance signifying the place many of us spent our time during the Covid-19 lockdowns: the toilet. There’s also a ladder next to it, representing the resilience of the bar industry and its talents to rise above the challenges of the pandemic.
Inside, the intimate bar transports guests to the Prohibition era with its dimly lit Art Deco-inspired space. It accommodates up to 30 patrons, with a terrarium-designed lounge area and rotating bar stations that are custom-designed by Agung. The extensive cocktail menu offers something for everyone, whether you’re into milk punches, dirty martinis, or timeless classics from that era.
Address: 27 Hollywood Rd, Central, Hong Kong
Gokan
Esteemed Japanese bartender Shingo Gokan needs no introduction to the global bar scene. The award-winning industry stalwart has already built a strong reputation with The SG Club in Tokyo and Sober Company in Shanghai, and is now looking to make his mark with Gokan in Hong Kong. Newly opened in July 2024, Gokan’s namesake bar also means ‘five senses’ in Japanese, informing its concept that blends tradition with modernity.
Think cocktails that appeal to all the five senses, taking factors like colour, flavour profile, and smell into account. Guests will find unusual savoury tipples on the menu here, such as the tom yum-flavoured Khun Tommy’s. Clarified techniques come into play to keep the drinks easy-going and balanced enough to pair with Japanese bar snacks such as tuna tartare, oden, and more.
Address: 192A Hollywood Rd, Central, Hong Kong
Kinsman
Kinsman opened its doors just before 2024 came around, brought to life by Singular Concepts. Created in collaboration with dining editor Gavin Yeung, the bar pays homage to Hong Kong’s rich heritage and traditions by incorporating Cantonese and Chinese spirits like Yuk Bing Siu and baijiu. Kinsman further stands out with its focus on local flavours, using locally sourced ingredients to craft its range of cocktails.
Mirroring its concept, the speakeasy bar’s interiors draw inspiration from Wong Kar Wai’s iconic film, ‘In the Mood for Love’. Designed by local interior design firm Atelier Shan, the cocktail salon features colonial architecture elements with thick velvet curtains, handpainted murals and striking red booths that accentuate its nostalgic charm. A visit to Kinsman is like entering a time capsule to old-world Hong Kong with mid-century modernist design philosophies, but with cocktails crafted for the present and future.
Address: 65 Peel St, Central, Hong Kong
W singularconcepts.com | I @kinsman.hk
Ella
Another new addition to the Singular Concepts family is Ella, a jazz bar located at The Trilogy, which is also home to rooftop bar Wav and nightclub Keyz. Paying tribute to the legendary Queen of Jazz, Ella Fitzgerald, this intimate New Orleans-inspired establishment promises to soothe as you sip.
Picture soulful live jazz performances in a cosy, dim space that will transport you to the birthplace of the genre. Though music takes centrestage here, Ella also offers a respectable cocktail list of reimagined classics including Louie Sazerac, Roasted Boulevardier, and its signature Bloody Mary. To top it all off, don’t miss bar bites like the Rockefeller oysters and Bodin arancini balls. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic date night!
Address: 45 Pottinger St, 26 Floor, H CODE, Hong Kong
W bistrochat.com | I @ellaxoxo
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Source: Global Citizen Club