Hong Kong is a city that takes its nightlife seriously, with a thriving bar scene that caters to every taste and mood. To celebrate its vibrant bar culture, we’ve curated a list of the 30 best bars in the city, with some venues listed in Asia’s 50 Best Bars for fancy cocktails, speakeasy bars for secret beverages, rooftop bars to enjoy amazing views, LGBT-friendly hangouts and our own list of favourite bars. Bars are listed by alphabetical order.

This comprehensive guide covers a wide range of bars that are sure to impress. Whether you’re looking for a perfect spot to sip on a craft cocktail or take in stunning city views, this guide will help you explore the best of Hong Kong’s bar world.

Aqua — Central

aqua best bar hong kong tsim sha tsui
The rooftop terrace at Aqua boasts one of the best views of the Hong Kong skyline (© Aqua)

This Tsim Sha Tsui hotspot offers an unforgettable rooftop experience at its location at H Zentre. As the flagship restaurant of the Aqua group, it features a spacious interior dining room with panoramic windows, two outdoor terraces, and a cocktail bar, all with stunning views of Victoria Harbour. The ever-changing menu offers perfectly crafted cocktails, fine wines, and premium spirits. Enjoy pre- or post-dinner drinks on the terrace or sundowners at the bar, with DJs spinning late into the night.

Type: Rooftop bar
Location: 17/F, H Zentre, 15 Middle Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Opening Hours: 3pm–12am (Sun-Thu); 3pm–1am (Fri-Sat)
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 3427 2288

See also
19 Best Rooftop Bars And Restaurants You Must Try This Year In Hong Kong

Argo — Central

argo best bar hong kong central
Argo’s focal point is a striking bar adorned with substantial structural columns and elegant chandeliers (© Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong)

Argo, listed as one of the World’s 50 Best Bars, prides itself on innovation and features a collection of the world’s most unique spirits, including AI-produced gin Monker’s Garkel and lab-made whisky Glypha. Under the leadership of Federico Balzarini, this luxurious bar, located within the Four Seasons Hotel in Central, features a glamorous design with stunning views of the Hong Kong skyline. Guests are greeted with a glass of champagne with a gummy bear, and can indulge in signature cocktails such as the Argo Martini and XO Negroni, while the egg waffle with Sichuan peppercorn chocolate spread on the bar bites menu is a must-try.

Type: Luxury hotel bar
Location: G/F, Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, 8 Finance Street, Central
Opening Hours: 7am-10:30am; 12nn-2:30pm; 5pm-1am (Mon-Thu); 5pm-2am (Fri-Sat)
Contact: Website | Instagram | +852 3196 8882

Artifact Bar — Central

artifact bar best bar hong kong central
The otherworldly design at Artifact reminds one of a sci-fi movie (© Artifact)

Hidden within Basehall 2 in Jardine House, Artifact Bar is a subterranean sanctuary inspired by surreal geometry and the serene atmosphere of underground water reservoirs. Led by talents Beckaly Franks, Ezra Star & Michael Larkin, it offers a menu of craft cocktails showcasing aged spirits, such as the signature Bread & Butter milk punch. Its unique swooping curves and industrial design transports visitors to a dystopian sci-fi movie, making it a must-visit for an otherworldly experience.

Type: Hidden speakeasy
Location: LG/F, Jardine House, 1 Connaught Place, Central
Opening Hours: 5pm-late (Tue-Sat)
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 6468 8762

Bar Buonasera — Tsim Sha Tsui

bar buonasera best bar hong kong tsim sha tsui
Bar Buonasera is the Hong Kong branch of the renowned Osaka establishment bearing the same name (© Bar Buonasera)

Situated above Butler Bar, Bar Buonasera is the Hong Kong branch of the renowned Osaka establishment bearing the same name. Led by the skilled hands of Nick Tse and Ayako Miyake, it offers an exquisite selection of handcrafted cocktails and over 100 whiskies from around the globe, with a focus on Scotland and Japan. Spoil yourself in the precision of Japanese mixology while sipping signature drinks like the Yuzu Collins and the Smokey Martinez.

Type: Handcrafted cocktail & whiskey bar
Location: 7/F Mody House, 30 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Opening Hours: 4pm-12am(Sun-Thu); 4pm-2am(Fri-Sat)
Contact: Instagram | Facebook | +852 2111 4444, +852 6656 7640 (Whatsapp), +852 6425 2510 (Whatsapp)

See also
13 Best Japanese Restaurants In Hong Kong: Izakayas, Ramen, Yakiniku, Oden & More

Bar Leone — Central

bar leone best bar hong kong central
Transport yourself to Rome at Baar Leone (© Bar Leone)

Nestled on Bridges Street in Soho, Bar Leone is the brainchild of acclaimed mixologist Lorenzo Antinori. Embracing the concept of ‘cocktail for the people’, it exudes Italian charm with vintage football shirts and photos of Popes adorning its interior. With a focus on simplicity, its cocktail menu offers revived classics sans fancy infusions like Yuzu Negroni and Olive Oil Sour, complemented by bites like the famous smoked olives. This place gets lively every weekend, guaranteeing fun times with your date and friends.

Type: Italian-themed cocktail bar
Location: G/F, 11-15 Bridges Street, Central
Opening Hours: 5pm-Late (Tue-Sun); Close on Monday
Contact: Website | Instagram

Cardinal Point — Central

cardinal point central best bar hong kong
Cardinal Point offers some of the city’s finest view (© Cardinal Point)

Perched atop Central’s LANDMARK, Cardinal Point has emerged as a premier rooftop bar in town, offering some of the city’s finest views. Its outdoor terrace affords 180-degree panoramic vistas of Victoria Harbour and the city skyline, ideal for catching stunning sunsets. Inside, an artsy ambiance prevails with a rotating art collection curated by WOAW Gallery. Indulge in innovative cocktails by John Nugent like the Sandia Margarita and Pandan Highball, complemented by delicious lobster rolls and fish tacos. Keep an eye out for surprise DJ visits.

Type: Rooftop bar
Location: 43/F, FORTY-FIVE, Gloucester Tower, LANDMARK, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central
Opening Hours: 12pm-1am (Mon-Sat & The day before PH);12pm-10pm (Sun)
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 3501 8560

COA — Central

coa best bar hong kong central
Indulge in the crowd-favorite COA’s award-winning cocktails that are inspired by Mexican flavors (© COA)

The widely recognized COA was opened in 2017 by founder Jay Khan, a pioneer in bringing agave spirits to Asia’s cocktail scene. This cosy bar provides a diverse menu from traditional mezcal, tequila, and Mexican-inspired cocktails. The signature cocktails including La Paloma de Oaxaca and Ancho Highball, feature sophisticated and minimal garnish, letting the bright flavours speak for themselves. Its rustic minimalist interior exudes a laid-back style of hospitality, with Jay often behind the bar or interacting with patrons. COA made history in 2023 as the first bar ever to claim the top spot on Asia’s 50 Best Bars list three years in a row.

Type: Award-winning cocktail bar for agave spirits 
Location: Shop A, LG/F Wah Shin House, 6-10 Shin Hing Street, Central
Opening Hours: 6pm – 12am (Tue – Sun); Close on Monday
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2813 5787

Darkside — Tsim Sha Tsui

darkside best bar hong kong tsim sha tsui
Make sure not to miss the lively jazz performance at Darkside (© Rosewood Hong Kong)

Darkside is an award-winning jazz bar located in the Rosewood Hong Kong in Tsim Sha Tsui, named as a homage to Kowloon’s moniker. Inspired by all things dark, the bar focuses on dark spirits, cigars, and chocolate, creating an elegant experience enhanced by the high-end art and fantastic view of Victoria Harbour. Classic cocktails like the Martini VS Vesper are worth returning for, but don’t miss the new cocktail menu inspired by Yin Yang, introduced by Director of Bars, Simone Rossi. Live jazz performances add to the lingering atmosphere, making Darkside the perfect spot for a night out.

Type: Luxury hotel bar with live jazz
Location: 2/F, Rosewood Hong Kong Victoria Dockside, 18 Salisbury Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui
Opening Hours: 5pm-12am (Sun-Thu); 5pm-1am (Fri-Sat)
Contact: Website | Instagram | +852 3891 8732

See also
17 Best Live Music Bars In Hong Kong To Enjoy Unique Local Bands

Faye — Central

faye best bar hong kong central
Faye is a futuristic, fun, and quirky adult playground with its playful decor (© Faye)

Faye is one of the top places to be for party-goers located on the 25th and 26th floors of California Tower, which was previously occupied by Ce La Vi. Enjoy smashing city views and unique touches like a Carousel horse and outer-space gimmicks, from the sleek interior lounge to the spacious outdoor deck. This buzzing and energetic rooftop club is the perfect evening hot-spot, where you can mix drinks, views, and live beats in a sky-high atmosphere. Take a breather on the sky deck and marvel at the breathtaking views of Central’s iconic buildings.

Type: Rooftop bar & club
Location: 25-26/F, California Tower, 30-32 D’Aguilar St, Central
Opening Hours: 5:00pm till late (Mon-Sat ); Close on Sunday
Contact:  Instagram | Facebook | +852 6741 4234

See also
12 Best Night Clubs in Hong Kong That Will Make You Dance Like No One's Watching

Honky Tonks Tavern — Central

Honky Tonks Tavern best bar hong kong central
Honky Tonks Tavern has also earned a spot on the prestigious list of Asia’s 50 Best Bars (© Honky Tonks Tavern)

Honky Tonks Tavern is a lively gastropub tucked away in a street in Central, known for its captivating vibe and the motto “Love, Peace & Chicken Grease.” Inspired by Nashville’s honky-tonk bars, it offers a delectable menu of classic dishes and signature “Honky Tipples,” which pair perfectly with elevated bar foods such as Creole-style devilled eggs and their famous hot chicken. The u-shaped bar is a great place to chill and converse with the friendly and knowledgeable staff while enjoying playful cocktails, a decent selection of natural wines, and a daily-changing slushie cocktail. Honky Tonks Tavern is a great spot to unwind after work, and it’s not uncommon for the fun to continue late into the night.

Type: American gastropub
Location: Honky Tonks Tavern, Man Hing Lane, Central
Opening Hours: 5pm-late (Mon-Fri); 3pm-laten(Sat-Sun)
Contact: WebsiteInstagram | +852 6741 4234

Kinsman — Central

kinsman best bar hong kong central
From the decor to the drinks and food, Kinsman nails the “old Hong Kong” theme (© Kinsman)

Born to fill a void in Hong Kong’s cocktail scene, Kinsman is where to drink cocktails inspired by Cantonese spirits. Created by Singular Concepts in collaboration with dining editor Gavin Yeung, this charming spot on Peel Street celebrates Cantonese heritage through the bold flavours of liquors like Yuk Bing Siu, baijiu, and contemporary Cantonese amaros. Pair them with Cantonese-inspired bites like shrimp toast and lap cheong platter, all while immersing yourself in the lush, modernist ambiance that pays homage to old Hong Kong charm.

Type: Cantonese cocktail salon
Location: 65 Peel St, Central
Opening Hours: 5pm-12am (Mon-Thu); 5pm-1am (Fri-Sat)
Contact: Website | Instagram | +852 2865 5011

Maggie Choo’s — Central

maggie choos best bar hong kong central
The old Shanghai-inspired caberet performances at Maggie Choo’s (© Maggie Choo’s)

Step through the exquisite antique shop facade on Hollywood Road, and you’ll find yourself amidst vintage bank decor of Maggie Choo’s, a satellite of the famous Bangkok bar. Designed by Ashley Sutton, the visionary behind The Iron Fairies and Dragonfly, this Shanghai-inspired cabaret and cocktail haven transports guests to the romantic allure of 1930s Shanghai. Indulge in Prohibition-era cocktails like the Sangria Highball Qi Pao and relish bar snacks such as crispy squid with yuzu mayo, all while enjoying lavish cabaret performances. At 10pm, this dramatic venue transforms into a club, with DJs keeping the grooves going until late.

Type: Old Shanghai-inspired cabaret bar
Location: G/F, Chinachem Hollywood Centre, Hollywood Road, Central
Opening Hours: 6pm-late
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 6250 6000

See also
10 Most Romantic Restaurants In Hong Kong For Date Nights & Special Occasions

Mizunara: The Library — Wan Chai

Mizunara The Library best bar hong kong wan chai
At Mizunara The Library, every drink is expertly crafted like a work of art (© Mizunara: The Library)

Nestled in a quiet commercial building in Wan Chai, Mizunara is an award-winning Japanese-style whiskey and cocktail bar that has earned numerous accolades for its exceptional offerings. The bar’s sophisticated decor, including a stylish wooden bar and plush leather seats, is complemented by a zen Japanese garden. Headed by chief bartender Masahiko Endo, Mizunara boasts an impressive whiskey collection of over 700 bottles from Japan, Scotland, Taiwan, and India. Whether you prefer a classic cocktail or a bespoke concoction, the bartenders, often dressed in impeccable white jacket and bow tie, are masters of their craft, using hand-cut ice and meticulous mixology techniques to create excellent drinks every time.

Type: Japanese-style whiskey and cocktail bar
Location: 4/F, Kiu Yin Commercial Building, 361-363 Lockhart Rd, Wan Chai
Opening Hours: 6pm-2am (Mon-Sat); Close on Sunday
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 3571 9797

Mostly Harmless — Sai Ying Pun

Mostly Harmless best bar hong kong sai ying pun
Check out the daily specials written on the white tiled walls at Mostly Harmless (© Mostly Harmless)

Led by the talented Ezra Star from The Pontiac, Mostly Harmless is a cosy omakase-style cocktail bar located in Sai Ying Pun. The bar’s white tiled walls are adorned with guest names and seasonal menus, setting an informal and welcoming atmosphere. Mostly Harmless supports local Hong Kong farms and features seasonal ingredients, such as snow pea, bitter melon, and mangosteen shells, in their well-crafted cocktails, which are constantly changing based on Ezra’s latest market haul. While the menu is limited to four drinks that rotate regularly, the bar team is happy to prepare classic cocktails or an off-the-menu order based on your preference.

Type: Farm to Glass cocktail bar using locally sourced ingredients
Location: 2/F, 110 Queen’s Road West, Sai Ying Pun
Opening Hours: 4pm-12am (Sun-Thu)
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook

Ozone — West Kowloon

ozone best bar hong kong west kowloon
Enjoy the city view from the 118th floor at Ozone, the highest bar in the world (© The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong)

Ozone, the highest rooftop bar in the world, perched on the 118th floor of Hong Kong’s prestigious Ritz Carlton in West Kowloon. Satisfy your cravings with delicious burgers and lobster rolls from their current collaboration with Burger & Lobster from London, paired with inventive cocktails crafted by expert mixologists. You wouldn’t want to miss the dramatic showcase of the signature Hong Kong Skyline cocktail. Take in the breathtaking view of Hong Kong’s skyline from the top while relaxing on the outdoor terrace. While prices are high, the unique experience is worth every penny.

Type: World’s hightest rooftop bar
Location: 118/F, The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong, 1 Austin Road West, West Kowloon
Opening Hours: 4pm-1am (Mon-Fri); 2pm-1am (Sat); 2pm-12am (Sun)
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2263 2270

See also
10 Best Fine Dining Restaurants For Fancy Dinners In Hong Kong

Penicillin — Central

Penicillin best bar hong kong central
Penicillin’s sustainable approach got itself multiple awards since its opening (© Penicillin)

Hong Kong’s first sustainable cocktail bar, Penicillin, is making waves in the industry with its ‘closed-loop’ mixology approach, which has landed it a spot on Asia’s 50 Best Bars list. Named after Alexander Fleming’s discovery of penicillin, the bar is the brainchild of Agung Prabowo and Roman Ghale, the masterminds behind The Old Man Hong Kong. Penicillin is changing the waste-heavy food and beverage industry with its minimal-waste cocktail list, made with locally sourced and upcycled ingredients. The bar’s eco-friendly approach extends to its decor, with tabletops made from trees felled by typhoons and lighting repurposed from nearby businesses. Don’t miss their signature cocktail, the One Penicillin One Tree, a climate-positive way to enjoy a drink, with a tree planted for every cocktail purchased.

Type: Sustainable cocktail bar
Location: Amber Lodge, L/G, 23 Hollywood Rd, Central
Opening Hours: 5pm-2am (Mon-Sat); 5pm-12am (Sun)
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 9880 7995

Ping Pong 129 Gintonería — Sai Ying Pun

Ping Pong 129 Gintoneria best bar hong kong sai ying pun
Ping Pong 129 Gintonería’s signature neon sign at the bar has “Work Out” written in Chinese (© Ping Pong 129 Gintonería)

Nestled in the hip neighborhood of Sai Ying Pun, Ping Pong Gintonería is hidden below ground in an old ping pong hall. This chic bar is no secret among local sipsmiths and casual cocktail lovers alike, offering a Spanish-style ‘gin-tonic’ experience with an extensive selection of gins and tonics to choose from, including the famed local gin Perfume Trees and classic Spanish brand Gin Xoriguer, and if you’re looking for something else, they also offer wines and beers. A selection of tapas, such as cold cuts, cheese, and grilled cheese toast goes perfect with the refreshing drinks. Don’t miss this cool and thoughtfully curated space, with its modern-industrial chic decor, high ceilings, neon signs, and edgy contemporary art.

Type: Gin bar
Location: 129 Second Street L/G Nam Cheong House, Sai Ying Pun
Opening Hours: 6pm-11pm
Contact: Website | Instagram | +852 99835 5061

Popinjay — Central

popinjay best bar hong kong central
Popinjays offers a stunning city view that can be enjoyed from its indoor restaurant as well (© The Murray Hong Kong)

Popinjays is a contemporary rooftop restaurant and stylish bar that offers a sophisticated and fantastic Hong Kong rooftop experience atop The Murray hotel on Cotton Tree Drive. The European gastronomy menu is a highlight, complemented by a world-class selection of classic cocktails, specialty spirits, and bar snacks. The bright and stylish indoor restaurant has floor-to-ceiling windows that connect to a spacious wraparound terrace, perfect for mingling with the fashionable crowd and appreciating the Instagram-worthy views. Popinjays offers lunch, afternoon tea and dinner on weekdays, as well as free-flow brunch on weekends.

Type: Hotel rooftop bar
Location: 26/F, The Murray, 22 Cotton Tree Drive, Central
Opening Hours: 12nn–12am (Sun-Thu); 12nn–2am (Fri-Sat)
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 3141 8888

See also
13 Best Outdoor Restaurants For Al Fresco Dining In Hong Kong

Quality Good Club — Central

Quality Goods Club best bar hong kong central
Quality Goods Club guarantees a fun night with its wide range of music playing all night long (© Quality Goods Club)

Quality Goods Club is an underground restaurant and bar that combines different types of entertainment into one, making it a great spot for a night out in Central. While their dinner menu is delicious, offering from fresh oysters to hanger steaks, the real show starts after dinner, so stick around after your meal to enjoy craft cocktails, live music from local musicians, and DJs who play an eclectic range of music. Quality Goods Club also has a good selection of wine, beer, and cocktails to choose from. Despite opening during a tough year for bars and live venues, this place has become popular, and eventually earned a spot on the Asia’s 50 Bars list, because of its great atmosphere, food, and drinks.

Type: Underground restaurant & bar
Location: Basement, On Lok House, 39-43 Hollywood Rd, Central
Opening Hours: 6pm–2am (Fri-Sat)
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 6029 1530

Quinary — Central

Quinary best bar hong kong central
Quinary’s signature Earl Grey Caviar Martini is a prime example of how the bar incorporates technology into its drinks (© Quinary)

Quinary, launched by decorated “King of Cocktails” Antonio Lai in 2012, is a hyper-modern bar that has become a mainstay of the industry. The industrial-designed space features a long, glowing bar and uses advanced technology like evaporators, centrifuges, sous vide, and foam to create drinks that tantalize the senses. The latest menu draws inspiration from food markets in Hong Kong and beyond, offering house signatures, classic cocktails with a twist, and seasonal themed cocktails that require a laboratory’s worth of equipment to produce, all served in playful and instagrammable containers. Be sure to try the signature Earl Grey Caviar Martini on your next visit.

Type: Cocktail bar
Location: 56-58 Hollywood Rd, Central
Opening Hours: 5pm–1am (Mon-Sat); 5pm-12am (Sun)
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2851 3223

See also
17 Hidden Bars With Secret Cocktails You Should Not Be Aware Of

SKYE — Causeway Bay

SKYE best bar hong kong causeway bay
SKYE boasts a spacious outdoor deck with stunning views overlooking Kowloon and Victoria Harbour (© The Park Lane Hong Kong A Pullman Hotel)

SKYE is a vibrant rooftop bar and restaurant in Causeway Bay. Overlooking the Victoria Harbour and Victoria Park, the 27th-floor spot boasts a stunning backdrop for enjoying comtemporary dishes and drinks, from bespoke cocktails inspired by zodiac signs, to an extensive collection of wine. With a complete facelift in 2022, SKYE now has a sleek, futuristic design, complete with a larger al fresco area for an unobstructed view of the harbour. With a stylish interior and outdoor terrace, SKYE is the perfect spot for both daytime and nighttime visits. Reservations are recommended for the indoor restaurant, but the rooftop terrace operates on a walk-in policy.

Type: Hotel rooftop bar
Location: 27/F, The Park Lane, 310 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay
Opening Hours: 12 :00pm–1:00am
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2839 3327

Tell Camellia — Central

Tell Camellia best bar hong kong central
At Tell Camellia, drinks are inspired by tea-drinking cultures from around the world (© Tell Camellia)

Tell Camellia is a hidden cocktail bar in Central where to drink tea – or even better, teatails. Renowned veterans in the industry, co-founders Sandeep Hathiramani and Gagan Gurung oversee a menu that captures the tea-drinking traditions of different countries. The menu is split into two sections: Teatails and T& Tonic. Teatails offer original tea-infused cocktails themed around a specific tea’s country of origin, like the photogenic floating cocktail Japan, made with re-distilled and evaporated matcha tea blended with shochu. The T& Tonic section features completely original flavor combinations, like Italian Almonds & Truffle. The team at Tell Camellia created a farm-to-table cocktail menu with botanical-heavy recipes. The buzzing atmosphere, airy windows, sleek wooden interior, and welcoming floor staff make it a lovely dating spot. Their signature Teaspresso Martini, a reimagining of the classic Espresso Martin, is also a must-try.

Type: Tea-inspired cocktail bar
Location: LG/Floor, H Code, 45 Pottinger Street, Central
Opening Hours: 6pm-2am
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 9821 5501

Terrible Baby — Jordan

Terrible Baby best bar hong kong jordan
Terrible Baby features a lush outdoor terrace, a perfect spot for a relaxing drink any time of day (© Eaton HK)

Taken its name from the French phrase ‘L’Enfant Terrible’, Terrible Baby is a cool rooftop bar in Jordan with music at the heart of the experience. The bar boasts a retro-chic interior lounge and a lush outdoor terrace that overlooks the bustling street view. The menu features an assortment of fun and creative signature cocktails like Freak Show and Kyoho, as well as highballs and a selection of wine and spirits. Enjoy shisha and snack bites alongside the drinks. For digital nomads, it further provides access to Eaton House, a co-working space. With live performances from both local and international musicians on a weekly basis, soak up in the energy of this multi-award-winning bar, where to drink and unwind while enjoying great music.

Type: Tea-inspired cocktail bar
Location: 4/F, Eaton HK, 380 Nathan Road, Jordan
Opening Hours: 2pm-12am (Sun-Thu); 2pm-2am (Fri-Sat)
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2710 1866

See also
14 Best Gay Bars & Clubs In Hong Kong For Everyone On The LGBTQIA+ Spectrum

The Aubrey — Central

The Aubrey best bar hong kong central
The Aubrey is arguably the most luxurious Japanese izakaya in town (© Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong)

Located atop the Mandarin Oriental in Hong Kong, The Aubrey offers a luxurious and eccentric Japanese izakaya experience. Recognized as one of Asia’s 50 Best Bars, this all-day dining venue provides sweeping views of Victoria Harbour and three distinctive bar experiences, including a champagne and oyster counter. The main bar boasts a carefully curated selection of rare Japanese tipples and brewed rice wines, with shochu taking center stage. Adjacent to the buzzing izakaya, a four-seat bar is dedicated to the Omakase Cocktail experience led by Hotel Beverage Manager Devender Sehgal. Here, guests can indulge in the expansive flavors and spirit craftsmanship of Japan, accompanied by light snacks. The culinary team serves up casual bites, robata dishes, and highlight dishes like oysters with Hokkaido uni and salmon roe, using the highest quality Japanese ingredients.

Type: Luxury Japanese Izakaya
Location: 25/F, Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, 5 Connaught Road, Central
Opening Hours: 12pm-1am (Sun-Thu); 12pm-2am (Fri-Sat)
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2825 4001

The Diplomat — Central

The Diplomat best bar hong kong central
Those in the know visit The Diplomat not only for its delicious drinks, but also for their midnight treat of chocolate chip cookies (© The Diplomat)

Nestled in a moody Central alley, The Diplomat is a speakeasy that caters to hip cocktail enthusiasts. It gained recognized soon after its launch in 2020, including a spot on Asia’s 50 Best Bars list. With high stools and tables in the main front bar and low banquettes, contemporary art, and a booming sound system in the VIP room, The Diplomat offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere. Head barman John Nugent draws inspiration from classic recipes and influential political and diplomatic figures in his cocktail creations, such as Gibsons and Tuxedos. Loyal fans keep returning for their mouthwatering Wagyu burger and Cubano sandwich, and be sure to stay until closing for their complimentary freshly baked chocolate chip cookies treat, which pairs well with an Irish coffee.

Type: Speakeasy
Location: Shop 1, LG/F, H Code, 45 Pottinger St, Central
Opening Hours: 6pm-2am (Mon-Sat)
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 3619 0302

The Iron Fairies — Central

The Iron Fairies best bar hong kong central
One cannot miss the 10,000 preserved butterflies that hang from the ceiling at The Iron Fairies (© The Iron Fairies)

The Iron Fairies, stunningly designed by Ashley Sutton, is a fairy tale come to life. The atmosphere is truly magical, with soft lighting, raw iron, and hand-hewn timber furnishings. The most incredible feature is the 10,000 preserved butterflies that delicately hang from the ceiling. The creative cocktail menu, developed with master mixologist Joseph Boroski, features unique drinks such as Smoke In A Bottle and the Underground Martini. To accompany your drinks, the bar offers delicious shareable bites and hand-crafted burgers. The intimate space is perfect for small group gatherings, with six individually designed private rooms behind 2-inch thick iron doors.

Type: Fairytale-themed bar & club
Location: LG, 1 Hollywood Road, Central
Opening Hours: 6pm-2am (Mon-Sat)
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 6202 0000

See also
36 Best Brunches With Free-Flow Options To Try In Hong Kong Over The Weekend

The Old Man — Central

The Old Man best bar hong kong central
From its interior design to its drinks, The Old Man is greatly influenced by the legendary author Ernest Hemingway (© The Old Man)

The Old Man in Soho has established itself as one of Asia’s top cocktail bars since its debut in 2017. Named after the legendary author Ernest Hemingway, its cocktail menu is inspired by his globe-trotting life and works. Creative cocktail offerings like Doomsday and Fisherman feature unique ingredients such as clarified banana ghee, uni gin, and snail tequila. Tucked away in a small alley, the intimate space is shaped like a capital I, with a gold cooling strip running down the center of the bar top to keep your drinks chilled. Hemingway’s legacy is also reflected in the decor, with wood-paneled walls, botanical motifs, and an abstract portrait of the author himself made from scrap material. Explore the world of the symbolic author at The Old Man with a distinctly Asian touch.

Type: Hemingway-themed cocktail bar
Location: Lower G/F, 37-39 Aberdeen Street, Soho, Central
Opening Hours: 5pm-12am (Sun-Wed); 5pm-2am (Thu-Sat)
Contact: Website | Instagram | +852 2703 1899

The Pontiac — Central

The Pontiac best bar hong kong central
Whether you’re stopping by for a drink or staying for the party, The Pontiac guarantees a fun time (© The Pontiac)

The Pontiac is not your average dive bar. This Central hotspot is inclusive, progressive, and all about rock and roll. The all-female team, led by bar manager Jen Queen and co-founder Beckaly Franks, creates a safe and welcoming space for everyone. While the bar’s early days were reminiscent of Coyote Ugly, The Pontiac has since evolved to showcase real cocktail expertise and female talent in the industry. The diverse drink menu ranged from cocktails made with local ingredients to beers and innovative slushies. From the bras hanging from the ceiling to the eclectic drink menu, The Pontiac is a place to let loose and have fun.

Type: LGBTQIA+ friendly dive bar
Location: 13 Old Bailey Street, Central
Opening Hours: 3pm-12am (Mon-Sat); 2pm-11pm (Sun)
Contact: Website | Instagram | +852 9454 8323

The Savoury Project — Central

the savoury project best bar hong kong central
The award-winning team at COA founded this unique bar concept inspired by savoury and umami notes (© The Savoury Project)

Founded by the award-winning team of Jay Khan and Ajit Gurung, the masterminds behind COA, Asia’s 50 Best Bars champion thrice over, The Savoury Project reshapes the cocktail landscape. Renowned for concocting cocktails infused with unexpected ingredients like caviar, mushrooms, fish sauce, and biryani masala, it departs from the sweetness of typical cocktails and focuses on savoury and umami notes. Indulge in delights like the Thai Beef Salad cocktail, crafted with white rum, lime, coconut, and chilli to evoke the essence of the classic Thai dish.

Type: Savoury cocktail bar
Location: 4 Staunton Street, Soho, Central
Opening Hours: 6pm-1am (Tue-Sat); 6pm-12am (Sun); Close on Monday
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2318 1588

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The Wise King — Central

The Wise King best bar hong kong central
The Wise King draws inspiration from the Spanish king Alfonso X, earning them a spot on the list of Asia’s top 50 bars (© The Wise King)

The Wise King may be small in size, but it’s big on flavor. This boutique lounge in Soho is inspired by 13th-century Spanish king Alfonso X, who created the tradition of tapas. The cocktail menu features ten unique creations, with the signature El Sabio or The Wise being a must-try. The intimate and opulent space is decorated with plush velvet seats and golden Damask-style wallpaper, providing a luxurious atmosphere for sipping and savoring. Head bartender Sandeep Kumar’s creative cocktails are not to be missed, and the patatas bravas are the perfect accompaniment to your drink.

Type: Hidden Cocktail Bar
Location: 25 Staunton Street, Basement, Tsung Wing Lane, Central
Opening Hours: 6:30pm-2am (Mon-Sat); Close on Monday
Contact: Instagram | Facebook | +852 9805 3165

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Header image credits: The Iron Fairies

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