When watching the action behind the bar just isn’t enough, take a cocktail class in Hong Kong to try things out yourself.
Whether it’s Saturday night at a neighbourhood bar, a happy hour tipple after work, or a classic G&T to take the edge off, Hong Kongers can often be found with a drink in hand. In fact, there’s nothing quite like witnessing the artistry of bartenders as they mix, shake, and pour, creating innovative cocktails. And if you’ve ever had the urge to try it out yourself, here’s your chance to moonlight as a bartender by taking cocktail classes in Hong Kong.
Cocktail classes in Hong Kong that serve up happiness on the rocks
1. PDT, The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong
Don’t let the name fool you – the PDT Sunday School is plenty boozy and fun! Prepare for an exclusive class with industry insiders who will share their knowledge of fine spirits and cocktails with you (psst, tell no one!). Two hours will fly by as you sip on a welcome drink, taste two signature cocktails and, of course, indulge in a signature PDT Hot Dog. Both liquor connoisseurs and drinking newbies alike will enjoy this insightful session about the realm of cocktails and bartending.
Find out more about PDT Sunday School.
PDT (Please Don’t Tell), G/F, The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2132 0110
2. Carbone
Stumped about what to do for date night? Head over to Carbone to experience a private masterclass led by its Master Bartenders. Step behind the bar and learn to shake, stir, and serve the perfect Martini and the classic Americano. The art of cocktail-making will be taught Carbone-style so expect a bit of flair to the iconic drinks you’ll be making. In the spirit of true New York-Italian hospitality, expect three hours of delicious snacks, your own cocktails, and more throughout the workshop.
Find out more about Carbone’s Classic Cocktail Class.
Carbone, 9/F, LKF Tower, 33 Wyndham Street, Central, Hong Kong, p. 2593 2593
3. The Woods
Inject a bit of fun (and liquor) into your next gathering with a cocktail class in Hong Kong arranged by The Woods. Designed for larger groups, the Cocktail Workshop, Cocktail Masterchef, and Curated Spirits Tasting are all perfect for celebrations, team-building events, or fun gatherings. The Cocktail Workshop will introduce you to a range of spirits and the techniques behind the classic Margarita and Negroni. Afterwards, you’ll have a chance to get behind the bar and try your hand at making the drinks yourself. For a more involved experience, the Cocktail Masterchef option will have you on your toes, as you take part in a team pop-quiz, Masterchef-style competition, and judging session. If you want a more laid-back workshop, get an in-depth introduction to selected spirits with the Curated Spirits Tasting. All of the classes are headed by expert instructor Victoria Chow, the founder of The Woods. They can be held at your own designated venue or at one of The Woods’ venue partners.
Find out more about The Woods’ Cocktail and Spirits Workshops.
Learn more about The Woods.
4. The Peninsula Hong Kong
Next time you find yourself at the Grande Dame of the Far East, make sure to book a Mastering the Classic Cocktails workshop. Expect a 90-minute in-depth mixology masterclass, throughout which you’ll get hands on with five cocktails from the bar menu. Between sips, your group of four will learn about the history of drinks, the equipment and spirits, as well as mixing and tasting techniques. By gaining this exclusive window into the world of bartending, you’ll be shaking up drinks at home confidently in no time.
Find out more about The Peninsula’s Mastering the Classic Cocktails.
The Peninsula Hong Kong, Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, p. 2920 2888
5. Darkside, Rosewood Hong Kong
Come over to the “dark side” of Kowloon to pick up bartending techniques from the masters at Rosewood. This Asia’s 50 Best Bar (ranked no. 9 in 2023) offers a bespoke Masterclass Package, with which you can learn to make three classic cocktails. Spend 90 minutes with Darkside’s professionals, as they guide you through the process of combining time-honoured techniques with innovative flair to craft outstanding drinks. Cocktails making you hungry? Nosh on the complimentary cheese and cold cuts platter while you bartend. What’s more, this cocktail class allows its participants to customise their session to suit the occasion or group, making it one of the best workshops in Hong Kong to book for a special experience.
Find out more about the Cocktail Class at Darkside.
Darkside, 2/F, Rosewood Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, p. 3891 8732
6. Hong Kong Culinary Academy
For those more seriously interested in bartending, this cocktail class in Hong Kong will make a great beginning to your journey. The Hong Kong Culinary Academy offers a Basic Bartender Course that’ll teach you the fundamentals of the profession. Study the groundwork of bar operation and management before moving onto the history of cocktails. You’ll pick up knowledge on equipment and ingredients while learning how to make cocktails. The course consists of four lessons and can be taught in English or Cantonese. By the end of the course, you’ll gain an Attendance Certificate in Basic Bartender Award and an ever-stronger curiosity in the art of cocktails.
Find out more about Hong Kong Culinary Academy’s Basic Bartender Course.
Hong Kong Culinary Academy, 1/F, Block C, Cho Yiu Centre, Cho Yiu Chuen, 6 King Cho Road, Kwai Chung, Hong Kong, p. 2156 0612
