We're just loving these cocktail bars that deliver style, magic and a touch of romance every time
What: This venerable old-timer delivers multi-sensory mixology of a high order. Master mixologist Antonio Lai goes to work with rotary evaporators, freeze-dehydrators and redistilling pot stills, which all helps make the experience a talking point. Let cupid's arrow cut its path through Lavender Meringue Pie, Marshmallow Duo or even the perfect Quinary Sour.
Where: 56-58 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong
What: This triptych of rooftop terrace, marble bar and slouchey lounge, not to mention out-of-body, blue-hued lighting and live DJ music, arguably crowns this as the bar beyond compare. For maximum razzamatazz, arrive after sunset and soak up the city's lights from 118 floors up.
Where: ICC, 118/F, The Ritz-Carlton, 1 Austin Rd W, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
What: Close your eyes and steal yourselves for the effect of entering 28th floor of the Peninsula Tower. POW! The fact that legendary designer Philippe Starck has crafted a great interior too is often overlooked. The sybaritic Victoria Harbour panorama is all the decor that Felix needs. If you're staying on for supper, all the better.
Where: Peninsula Hotel, Salisbury Road, Kowloon
What: One of the most fashionable big experience night spots in HK delivers the full package of glam-chic décor, wrap-around terrace and jaw-dropping views. The uber-cool, pop-up decor is completely refreshed every six months, meaning its many fans never tire of coming here.
Where: 25/F, 10 Chater Rd, Central, Hong Kong
What: Loungey sofas, sexy bar stools and louche artworks set the scene and the romantic vibe at this much admired bar, which has played host to many a celeb over the years. Cheese and wine matching are a nice icebreaker. Victoria Harbour views the icing on the cake.
Where: 6F, Four Seasons Hotel, 8 Finance Street, Hong Kong
What: With its elegant, clubbish setting and smoother-than-butter brigade of tuxedoed waiters, there’s an air of effortless class and romance about this quintessential Hong Kong bar. Live blues and jazz ratchet up the sliky ambience come the evening (Tues to Sat nights).
Where: 5 Connaught Road Central, Hong Kong
What: Put yourself (and your date) in the hands of mix meister legend Agung Prabowo at this award winning bar trading in some of the most inventive cocktails in the time zone. There are plenty of classics, too, if you want to avoid these challenges. Best seats in the house are at the bar.
Where: LGF, 37 Aberdeen St, Central, Hong Kong
What: Sashay past the bouncer on the doorway and you’ll find a warm embrace, plenty of bonhomie, and a relatively traditional setting at this newish bar on Pottinger Street. DJ music and properly made cocktails hit all the right notes. Burgers, mac & cheese and chicken nuggets makes this ideal for an easy-going date night.
Where: 45 Pottinger Street, Central, Hong Kong
What: The main Bar at the Peninsular is a wood-panelled hideaway with velvet pouffes and leather armchairs and, despite appearances, girls still find there’s an innate romance in all this clubbiness. White Ladies, Screwdrivers and Vespers, alongside the signature Mistress – a tequila, mezcal and thyme-infused Cointreau concoction – may have something to do with it.
Where: Peninsula Hotel, Salisbury Road, Kowloon