Can't stand bad service or weirdly loud music at a lounge bar? These are the best bars in Hong Kong to be merry at.
Hong Kong is known for its fine dining restaurants and rooftop bars, but above all, we like to drink at bars that make us happy, even when it’s not inside designated happy hours. So if you’re looking for good music, good service, and good pours, we think these are the best bars in Hong Kong (in no particular order). Cheers!
Best bars in Hong Kong that you need to check out
1. Bar Leone
Since opening in Hong Kong in 2023, Bar Leone has taken Hong Kong’s bar scene by storm. Its quality cocktails, delectable food, and exceptional hospitality has even crowned it Asia’s Best Bar and World’s 2nd Best Bar in 2024 – and we have to agree. We absolutely love Leone’s cocktails, especially the Yuzu Negroni, Olive Oil Sour, and Luna Rossa. In addition, its Focaccia Sandwiches are nothing short of addictive. If you’re wondering what all the hype is about, head over to Leone and see for yourself – just try to get there early to beat the queue!
Bar Leone, 11-15 Bridges Street, Central, Hong Kong
2. Coa
On a mission to bring agave spirits to barflies in Hong Kong, Coa’s menu features a selection of cocktails crafted with agave tequila and traditional mezcal. Highlights include the La Paloma de Oaxaca and Coconut Milk Punch, while spirits connoisseurs can flip through the 41-page menu and taste across quality Mexican spirits.
Coa, Shop A, LG/F, Wah Shin House, 6-10 Shin Hing Street, Central, Hong Kong
3. La Suite
Tucked away in the French restaurant Clarence, La Suite is a hidden gem when it comes to cocktail bars in Hong Kong. We love lounging at its outdoor seating area with a drink in hand during al fresco season, while its indoor bar area offers an intimate atmosphere that’s hard to beat. As for drinks, La Suite boasts a menu of classics and reimagined concoctions. While you really can’t go wrong with any drink on the menu, some of our go-to cocktails include the French 75, Japan, Philippines, and Sidecar. Oh, and look out for its seasonal specials!
La Suite, Clarence, 25/F, H Code, 45 Pottinger Street, Central, Hong Kong, p. 5505 3799
4. The Savoury Project
A sister bar of Coa, The Savoury Project puts an unexpected spin on the average cocktail. Serving a menu of entirely savoury concoctions (hence the name), this cocktail bar in Hong Kong engages your senses in unique ways and it’s certainly made us fans of savoury drinks! The Teriyaki Freeball is perfect for those who prefer something on the sweeter side, while the Miso Coffee Boulevardier puts a tasty twist on the usual espresso martini with vermouth and whisky.
The Savoury Project, 4 Staunton Street, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2318 1588
5. Quinary
Imbibers will know Quinary is the real deal when it comes to cocktails in Hong Kong. Whether you’re craving a classic concoction or something with a little more flair and finesse, this bar has you covered. The signature Earl Grey Caviar Martini is a must-try and comes with an Instagrammable foam top that’s also fun to eat! We also love the Gold, Wax, and Silk on its new menu, launched in late 2024. Just remember to arrive before 9pm to avoid the queues.
Quinary, 56-58 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2851 3223
6. The Opposites
Got opposite tastes for cocktails within the gang? The Opposites is the bar for you! Serving a menu of paired cocktails, each item is listed with an accompanying drink that perfectly complements the other in terms of flavour and presentation. The Soya Sour has us hooked with its silky texture and tropical flavours, while the PBJ and its opposite, La Socialites, had us hankering for more. Trust us when we say: you’ll always end up ordering more than one drink here!
The Opposites, LG/F, Hilltop Plaza, 49 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2711 0038
7. Penicillin
Not only does Penicillin serve top-notch cocktails, but we also love that this bar in Hong Kong strives to be entirely “scrap-less” by reducing food waste from cocktail production. On the menu is a series of drinks crafted with locally sourced ingredients, as well as recycled and upcycled materials. One of the must-tries is The Original, while we were also thoroughly impressed with the Loved Clothes Last.
Penicillin, L/G, Amber Lodge, 23 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong
8. Kinsman
Want to try something different? Check out Kinsman on your next night out! This Cantonese-style bar in Hong Kong serves a menu of unique cold and warm cocktails that celebrates traditional Cantonese spirits as well as local food culture. The Of Rice and Men combines rice wine, sake, and tequila in an aromatic concoction. On the other hand, the Hakka Hill Song features Chinese baiju in a fruity and floral mix. And if you get peckish, Kinsman’s Hong Kong street food-inspired snack menu is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
Kinsman, 65 Peel Street, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2865 5011
9. The Green Door
If you’re looking for a bar in Hong Kong that serves good food and cocktails, look no further than The Green Door. Its New York-style bistro comfort food pairs exceptionally well with its menu of cocktails. Must-tries include the spicy Elizabeth, which puts a spin on the classic boulevardier, while the Ruthie elevates your usual pint with white rum, sherry, and a garnish of raspberries.
The Green Door, LG/F, Welley Building, 97 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong
10. Dead Poets
Struggling to think of places to go for a drink? Put Dead Poets on your bar hopping list! This bar in Hong Kong is one of our go-tos, not least due to its cosy and chill atmosphere that complements its cocktails perfectly. Psst – Dead Poets has just launched a new “Dead Legends” menu in late 2024, paying tribute to iconic celebrities that have passed on. Go try these innovative bevvies asap!
Dead Poets, 41-49 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong
11. Call Me Al
Located in the laid-back locale of Sai Ying Pun, Call Me Al is a vibrant neighbourhood bar serving up quality drinks with delectable food to pair. During our visit, we loved the Sunset Spritz. This refreshing mix of aperitif, prosecco, and grapefruit got us reaching for the bar’s hearty food items! On that note, the Smash Burger totally blew us away with its complex flavours and textures. If you’re still peckish after the main, a side of fries will satisfy any craving.
Call Me Al, G/F, 123 Queen’s Road West, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong
12. Foxglove
One of our favourite live music venues, Foxglove keeps it classy with live jazz, phenomenal cocktails, and interior design that will make you swoon. From casual dim sum dinners, to romantic dates, to loud nights out with friends, this bar just gets better and better as the night progresses.
Foxglove, 2/F, Printing House, 18 Ice House Street, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2116 8949
13. Tell Camellia
Calling all tea lovers! Apart from brewing your own cuppa with the finest tea in Hong Kong, you can also sample your fave beverage in cocktail form at Tell Camellia. This bar in Hong Kong serves a tea-centred menu. Signature items include the matcha-flavoured Warm Cloud, aged puer tea concoction Ranch of Punch, and a flavourful Teapresso Martini.
Tell Camellia, Shop 2, LG/F, H Code, 45 Pottinger Street, Central, Hong Kong, p. 9821 5501
14. Honky Tonks Tavern
Head over to Honky Tonks for a good time! Tucked away along Hollywood Road, this buzzy bar is famous for its sharp drinks and mouth-watering bar bites. Our go-to is the bar’s daily spiked slushie, though you also can’t go wrong with a glass of house wine or a cocktail. Pair your bev with the signature Fried Chicken and you’re good to go. Come for happy hour and enjoy Honky Tonks’ offerings for less!
Honky Tonks Tavern, Man Hing Lane, Central, Hong Kong
15. Ping Pong 129 Gintoneria
Speakeasies are known for their secretive entrances, and Ping Pong 129 is no different. But it isn’t exactly the best kept secret, since Ping Pong is one of the most popular gin bars in Hong Kong! Complete with urban chic interiors and edgy vibes, strike a pose next to the eye-catching neon signs and contemporary Chinese art while you’re there. Order a tall glass of gin and tonic from the bar and bask in its buzzy atmosphere.
Ping Pong 129 Gintoneria, LG/F, Nam Cheong House, 129 Second Street, Sai Ying Pun, Hong Kong
[This article was originally published in June 2018 and updated in 2024 by Celia Lee.]
