Hong Kong, a city globally recognized for its vibrant energy and breathtaking skyline, offers a drinking scene as dynamic and diverse as its culture. From world-renowned cocktail havens to sophisticated rooftop terraces and bustling sports pubs, the city provides an ideal venue for every occasion—whether seeking cutting-edge mixology, casual socializing, or spectacular views. This comprehensive guide highlights the must-visit establishments across Central, Kowloon, and beyond, ensuring a perfect pour is always within reach in Asia’s world city.
The Pinnacle of Hong Kong Mixology
Central Hong Kong is a global epicenter for innovative cocktail creations. Leading this charge is Bar Leone, celebrated globally after achieving the impressive feat of a high rank on the World’s 50 Best Bars list and securing the title of Asia’s No. 1 bar twice since its 2023 opening. Emphasizing Italian simplicity, the concept of cocktail popolari (cocktails for the people) drives its success, known for exceptional hospitality and signatures like the Filthy Martini, featuring house-smoked olive brine.
Another essential stop in Central is Montana Cocktail Bar. Emerging from a collaboration between Bar Leone founder Lorenzo Antinori and renowned mixologist Simone Caporale, Montana pays tribute to 1950s Cuban cocktail culture. Its sleek black-and-white tiled interior hosts expertly crafted drinks, including the recommended El Presidente, a blend of rum, quince vermouth, and dulce de leche.
For unparalleled elegance and innovative drinks, Argo at the Four Seasons demands attention. Beyond its stunning floor-to-ceiling windows offering mesmerizing views, Argo’s inventive menu shines. Notable is the Grapefruit & Cacao 20 Century, which blends Monkey 47 dry gin with ingredients like Ovaltine and champagne.
Further enriching the cocktail landscape are concept bars like Coa. Opened in 2017, this award winner focuses on agave spirits, drawing inspiration from Mexican culture—the name is derived from the harvesting blade for agave. Patrons can explore refined tequila and mezcal concoctions such as the Ancho Highball, featuring tequila blanco, salted plum, ancho chile, and guava soda. Meanwhile, Gossip Cocktail Club, the stylish sibling of Socio, focuses on Asian-inspired mixology, incorporating flavors like Sichuan pepper, yuzu kosho, and Korean gochujang alongside R&B and hip-hop music.
Rooftop Retreats: Drinking Above the Clouds
Hong Kong’s skyline is best enjoyed from above, and the city’s rooftop bars provide stunning perspectives paired with refined dining and drinking.
Hong Kong Island Views
On Hong Kong Island, La Rambla by Cataluna on the IFC Mall terrace provides panoramic views alongside exquisite “Tapas y Cócteles.” The 5,000-square-foot terrace is ideal for sharing modern Catalan cuisine and sunset cocktails. Nearby, Cardinal Point Sky Terrace in Central remains a favorite for sweeping harbor views, attracting crowds with its global-inspired menu and resident DJ sets.
For a unique experience combining fine dining and views, Grand Majestic Sichuan in Alexandra House features a plush, ‘70s-inspired interior giving way to a lush, greenery-laden roof terrace. Here, patrons can select drinks based on their Chinese zodiac sign or sip cocktails infused with fiery Sichuan spices. Popinjays at The Murray hotel boasts a sprawling 520-square-meter wraparound terrace, making it a hotspot for Hong Kong’s cocktail connoisseurs, offering a bird-themed drink list.
Moving toward Causeway Bay, ALTO, designed by Tom Dixon’s studio, occupies the 31st floor of V Point, offering expansive vistas and modern steakhouse fare. Similarly, SKYE at The Park Lane Hotel, located on the 27th floor, offers a vibrant, illuminated space overlooking Victoria Harbour and Victoria Park, catering to the “global nomad” with creative cuisine and cocktails.
Kowloon Perspective
Crossing the harbor reveals new perspectives. Red Sugar at the Kerry Hotel offers a vast space and an extensive cocktail menu, celebrated for providing one of the most rewarding views of the Hong Kong Island skyline from Kowloon. For the genuinely intrepid, Ozone at the International Commerce Centre (ICC) stands as the world’s highest bar, perched on the 118th floor. Operated by The Ritz-Carlton, Ozone offers an unparalleled, cloud-level drinking experience.
Sports and Socializing Spots
Beyond high-end cocktail and view bars, Hong Kong caters brilliantly to casual socializing and sports fans.
For dedicated sports viewing, Delaney’s Irish Live Sports Bar, with locations in Tsim Sha Tsui (TST) and Cyberport, offers traditional Irish charm, draught Guinness, and broad coverage of global sports. In Central, The Globe is renowned for its vast space, craft beer selection, and lively atmosphere, making it an excellent spot for meeting new people. Other popular sports venues include The Blind Pig in Sai Wan Ho, serving pub grub and craft beers, and Bar 109 Sports Bar in Wan Chai, which uses a 180-inch LED projector and multiple large screens to ensure every game is visible.
For those seeking non-stuffy social environments, venues like Terrible Baby in Central attract a young, artsy crowd, encouraging mingling over clever cocktails and live music. Zuma’s Yashoku offers a unique “night brunch” concept on Thursday and Friday nights, featuring free-flow bubbles, signature dishes, and a live DJ, perfect for a lively evening out. Finally, Ping Pong 129 in Sai Ying Pun offers “hidden hangout” vibes in a chic former table tennis hall, specializing in an extensive, sophisticated gin-and-tonic menu alongside Spanish tapas.
Hong Kong’s nightly offerings are a seamless blend of international sophistication and local character, guaranteeing an exciting destination for every preference.