When you open the news these days, there aren’t many things to smile about. The good news is, Hong Kong is full of comedy clubs places to see local standup comedians, featuring everything from big-name acts to rising underground talents! Forget the world’s issues and enjoy lively gags and quick-witted jokes for an hour or two (with a drink in hand). The best part? Unlike other shows in the city, most of these don’t require booking months in advance. You’re welcome.
Comedy Clubs
Backstage Comedy — Multiple Locations
Backstage Comedy is one of the city’s top comedy club showcasing the best local talent like Mohamed Magdi, Vivek Mahbubani, Gordon Chiu, and Jordan Leung, along with regular international headliners. Catch their Comedy Showcase every Saturday at Central’s Basehall 02, where they’ve also revived their famous Drunk Debate series – grab a drink and watch them debating over fun topics like “LKF or Peel Street?”! Plus, they’ve started a residency at Grand Hyatt’s LIPS Cocktails & Theatre, with shows from Tuesday to Saturday evenings.
When: 7:15pm-8:00pm (Tue-Sat at LIPS); 9:00pm-10:30pm (Sat at Basehall 02)
Where: LIPS Cocktails & Theatre, Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, Wan Chai | Baseball 02, Jardine House, Central
Contact: Instagram | Facebook
Takeout Comedy Club — Central
TakeOut Comedy Club in Central has been a staple of Hong Kong’s comedy scene since 2007. As Asia’s first full-time comedy club, it hosts regular stand-up shows in both English and Chinese every Friday, featuring top talent and fresh faces alike. Not to mention their HK International Comedy Festival is celebrating its 15th anniversary this year! Plus, if you fancy making people laugh, they offer stand-up comedy workshops!
When: Every Friday
Where: 34 Elgin Street, Central
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 6220 4436
The Aftermath — Central
If you follow local shows, you’re probably familiar with The Aftermath. This bar caters to the arts and cultural community with live indie bands, poetry sessions, movie nights, and of course, open mic comedy every Tuesday! There’s always something going on. If you and your friends speak Cantonese or Mandarin, they have shows in those languages too. Check their event calendar for updates on upcoming events.
When: Open mic on every Tuesday. Stay tuned to their social media for upcoming shows
Where: L/G, 57-59 Wyndham Street, Central
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook
Other Places To Watch Stand-Up Comedy
Bar 109 — Wan Chai
Located on the buzzing Lockhart Road in Wan Chai, Bar 109 has long been a top spot for sports fans and comedy lovers alike. Open Mic Comedy Night is held regularly: every Monday at 8:30 pm in English, perfect for kicking away those Monday blues; for those who speak Cantonese, join their open mic every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month!
When: Every Monday in English; every 1st & 3rd Tuesday of the month in Chinese
Where: G/F, 109 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2861 3336
Belly and the Beer — SoHo
Elgin Street in SoHo is packed with hip restaurants and bars. Here, you can find Belly and the Beer, a Belgian-inspired taphouse and restaurant. Beer lovers won’t want to miss their selection of over 25 draught and 150 bottled beers; and starting in May, catch their new Open-Mic Comedy Night every last Sunday of the month – with happy hour till 10pm, of course!
When: Every last Sunday of the month
Where: G/F 21 Elgin Street, Soho
Contact: Instagram | Facebook | +852 6907 9064
Bobby’s Rabble — Central
Conveniently located on Wyndham Street, Bobby’s Rabble is a beloved spot for after-work happy hour drinks, where its laid-back vibe can easily lead to hangover nights if you’re not careful… This bar is not just about drinks; they also host quiz nights and comedy shows featuring groups like ‘Comedy Unpopped’ and ‘Bitches in Stitches.’ Follow their social media for the latest updates and join in for some laughs and good times.
When: Stay tuned to their social media for upcoming shows.
Where: 46 Wyndham Street, Central
Contact: Instagram | Facebook | +852 9165 6144
Hong Kong Fringe Club — Central
Easily recognisable by its neoclassical exterior near LKF, the Hong Kong Fringe Club is a lively cultural hotspot in Central. This iconic venue hosts a range of events, from live music and art exhibitions to stand-up comedy shows. Recently, they celebrated the anniversary of Hong Kong’s first female comedy troupe, Bitches in Stitches. Follow their social media and website for updates on upcoming shows and performances.
When: Stay tuned to their social media for upcoming shows
Where: 2 Lower Albert Road, Central
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 5616 1233 (Whatsapp)
Terrible Baby — Yau Ma Tei
When it comes to entertainment on the Kowloon side, one must mention Terrible Baby. The terrace bar at Eaton Hotel constantly hosts DJ performances and live acts. Don’t miss its well-known ‘Five Star Comedy’ series, featuring top local comedians like Jordan Leung and Vivek Mahbubani. Enjoy a night of award-winning cocktails and laughter. Their drag nights are super fun too!
When: Stay tuned to their social media for upcoming shows
Where: 4/F, Eaton Hotel, Yau Ma Tei
Contact: Website | Instagram | Facebook | +852 2710 1866
Looking for something different? Don’t worry, Hong Kong never runs out of spots to make your nights unforgettable. Whether you’re unwinding with a drink after work during the Best Happy Hour Deals, admiring the city skyline at a Rooftop Bar, dancing the night away at Top Night Clubs, or enjoying a romantic date with Live Music, our guides have you covered. Get inspired and find your next adventure!
Header image credit: The Aftermath
