Drink in the View – Hong Kong’s Best Bars and Restaurants with Amazing Views

Can a person ever get bored of looking at the Hong Kong skyline? We don't think so, and we've found the very best bars and restaurants around town for you to soak in the views.

With close to 1,300 skyscrapers and more than 7,800 high-rise buildings scattered throughout the city, Hong Kong is a prime location for breathtaking views. What better way to eat and drink out than taking in the dazzling sights of the best skyline in the world from the clouds? Here are the best sky-high cityscapes, as well as some great vantage points for those who like their cocktails closer to ground, but still want to gaze at the special sights that make this city so unique.

We’ve split our picks of Hong Kong’s best bars and restaurants with a view into Hong Kong Island and Kowloon selections. You can also click on any venue name below to jump straight to that listing.

Hong Kong Island: The Envoy, Alto, CÉ LA VI, Pier 7, Petrus, Pierre, SKYE at the Park Lane Hotel, ToTT’s, Sugar at EAST Hotel, SEVVA, Cafe Gray Deluxe, Wooloomooloo Prime Causeway Bay and Wooloomooloo Steakhouse Wan Chai

Kowloon: Above & Beyond at Hotel Icon, Al Molo, Ozone, Tin Lung Heen, Aqua, Morton’s at The Sheraton, Hutong, Sky Lounge at The Sheraton, Spasso, Felix at The Peninsula, Eyebar,  Wooloomooloo Steakhouse TST East, Nobu, Rech, Le 39 V, Harlan’s

 

Hong Kong Island

The Envoy

Central, Cocktail Bar, International Restaurant, Afternoon Tea, Terrace

Not one of the highest views on our list but The Envoy nonetheless offers great city scenery. Positioned on the third floor of the The Pottinger Hotel in Central, the outdoor area is a popular spot for after-work drinks. But we’re not talking pints of lager – the cocktails here are, dare we say, works of art. So inventive and made with exotic components like star anise syrup and Korean pear juice, then poured into the most delightful drinking vessels, you’ll be dying to order the next one to see what they deliver next.

Where:   3/F, The Pottinger Hong Kong, 74 Queen’s Road Central, Central
Book:     2169 3311 or 

 

Alto

Causeway Bay, Modern Grill

Known for its great cuts of beef and stunning views of Victoria Harbour, Alto brings it all together in a beautiful dining venue with decor inspired by the elements – stone, wood, fire and water. Sit back on the 31st floor for an evening of fine wine and luscious desserts – their dark chocolate butter cake is served with caramel sauce and bacon (?!) ice cream. Trust us, it works.

Where:  31/F, V Point, 18 Tang Lung Street, Causeway Bay
Book:    2603 7181 or [email protected]

 

CÉ LA VI

Central (LKF), Modern Asian Restaurant, Cocktail Bar, Rooftop

One of the better views in Lan Kwai Fong, with a prime spot on top of the California Tower, the Skybar rooftop garden let’s you gaze across the city while rubbing elbows with a mixed crowd of business types and partiers. There’s even a jacuzzi, although we have yet to see anyone actually in it. Expect stiff cocktails with equally stiff prices and a lively atmosphere – perhaps even livelier if someone actually jumps in the water.

Where:  25/F, California Tower, 32 D’Aguilar Street, Central
Book:    3700 2300 or 

 

Pier 7

Central (Ferry Pier 7), Drinks & Snacks, Terrace

This is a perfect spot for meeting friends from other parts of the city – a happy medium for when you don’t want to go too far into town and neither do they. Located at the top of the Star Ferry Terminal, disembark and head right in for a drink and some snacks (although the menu is limited). The best time to come is at night to gaze at the ferry traffic shuttling people across the harbour among the lit-up skyscrapers.

Where:  Shop M, Roof Viewing Deck, Central Pier 7, Star Ferry, Central
Book:    2167 8377 or [email protected]

 

Petrus

Central, French Restaurant

Perched high above the city, with breath-taking views of the Harbour, Petrus serves up a fine dining experience with a fresh interpretation of modern French cuisine. The chef’s seasonal menu is always reliably delicious even if the price point makes it more of a splurge for special occasions than an everyday indulgence. However, their excellent service, stunning views and delicious dishes make this one hard to beat.

Where:   Level 56, Island Shangri-La Hong Kong, Supreme Court Road, Central
Book:     2820 8590

 

Pierre

Central, Modern French Restaurant

This stunning, 2-Michelin starred restaurant sits on the 25th floor of the Mandarin Oriental where diners can indulge in modern French cuisine in a stunning environment.  The menu changes seasonally but always features creative interpretations of classic dishes with seductive flavours that are truly worthy of their Michelin-starred status. Their express lunch options make this one a great choice for lunch in Central whereas the degustation dinner menus are perfect for a more drawn-out evening affair. Whichever way you choose to do it you are sure to be served dishes that are exquisite in both taste and presentation.

Where:   5 Connaught Road, Central
Book:     2825 4001 or

 

SKYE at the Park Lane Hotel

Causeway Bay, French Restaurant & Cocktail Bar, Terrace

The outdoor deck at SKYE is sprawling and eclectic, with a lit-up bar and glowing tables that seem to magnify the lights from the skyline across as you look out from the 27th floor. Maybe it’s the cocktails doing something to our eyes – they’ll set you back at least $100 but they pack a punch. Inside the restaurant caters to French food fans, with a menu curated by British chef Lee Adams.

Where:   310 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay
Book:     2839 3327 or [email protected] 

 

ToTT’s at The Excelsior

Causeway Bay, International Seafood / Grill, Bar

An old favourite for imbibing among the skyscrapers, ToTT’s can be found on the 34th floor of The Excelsior hotel. Dining outside can be quite thrilling, as you feel so close to the towering buildings at times. But there are also indoor dining options where the view doesn’t suffer. Come for evening cocktails or their popular free flowing Champagne brunch on Sundays.

Where:  281 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay
Book:    2837 6786 or book online

 

Sugar at EAST Hotel

Taikoo Shing, Cocktail Bar, International Tapas, Terrace

Something for the Quarry Bay crowd, Sugar’s rooftop deck and lounge on the 32nd floor of the EAST Hotel lets you take in the Hong Kong skyline from a different angle. Umbrella-covered comfy patio furniture is perfect for lounging in the summer while kicking back with one of their refreshing cocktails, like the Bitter Gourd made with green apple, egg white, mint and lime. The deck doubles as a wedding venue at times, so it’s a good idea to check ahead to see if they’re closed for a private function.

Where:    32/F, EAST, 29 Taikoo Shing Road, Taikoo Shing
Book:      3968 3738 or [email protected]

 

SEVVA

Central, Cocktail Bar, Premium Cake Shop, International Restaurant, Afternoon Tea, Terrace

Dazzling 360-degree views of the city are in store at SEVVA’s rooftop bar in Central. A casual setting with colourful pillows on comfy sofas, it’s a good place for afternoon tipples while the sun is still out, and the perfect place for a nightcap as the city lights up. Decent cocktails and mocktails are on the menu, as well as nibbles in the form of share plates or the famed Ms B’s cakes. The Bankside and Harbourside restaurants are known for their chic settings of wall-adorned art and glistening chandeliers.

Where:   Prince’s Building 25/F, 10 Chater Road, Central
Book:      2537 1388 or [email protected]

 

Café Gray Deluxe

Admiralty, International, Vegetarian Friendly, Bar

The interiors at Café Gray are très chic and the atmosphere is classy yet welcoming. If you’ve stopped in for one of their innovative cocktails or a glass of wine from their exhaustive wine list, the 14-meter stone bar is perfect for having a chat. But, if you are keen for more privacy, you can tuck into a private nook with their velvet and leather banquettes. Their afternoon tea is also fab for getting together with the ladies. Cafe Gray is helmed by Chef Gray Kunz (the restaurant’s namesake) who is known for crafting innovative dishes from organic, seasonal ingredients inspired by his lifetime of experience in kitchens around the world. The seasonal “Market Menu” is always a sure bet and it comes with a short-list of wines chosen by the sommelier.

Where:   L49 The Upper House, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty
Book:     3968 1106

 

Wooloomooloo Prime (Causeway Bay) & Wooloomooloo Steakhouse (Wan Chai)

Causeway Bay, Wan Chai (see also TST below), Steakhouse, Bar, Terrace

The Wooloomooloo group has got the Hong Kong view game covered, boasting three locations in Wan Chai, Causeway Bay and Tsim Sha Tsui with equally prized viewpoints. Wooloomooloo Prime in Causeway Bay is spread across two floors, each with a terrace offering an awesome glimpse of Victoria Harbor. Over in Wan Chai, Wooloomooloo Steakhouse is planted atop The Hennessy on the 31st floor, with floor-to-ceiling windows for diners to gaze through, or peek down from (careful) on the open air terrace. We mustn’t forget to mention the steaks that Wooloomooloo is famed for, featuring Australian and USDA prime beef, with six different steak sauces to choose from. Pasta and pizza also make up the menu, along with seriously good desserts (their sweet and rich bread and butter pudding is a must) to cap off your meal.

Note: Wooloomooloo Prime is closed for renovations until 13 February 2018 but are set to reopen on Valentine’s day with a revamped menu

Where:  Wooloomooloo Prime, Level 27 and 28 Soundwill Plaza II Midtown, 1 Tang Lung Street, Causeway Bay;

Book:    2771 3600 or  

Where:   Wooloomooloo Steakhouse, 31/F and Rooftop, The Hennessy, 256 Hennessy Road Wan Chai

Book:     2893 6960 or  

 

Kowloon

Above and Beyond at Hotel Icon

TST East, Cantonese Fine Dining

Award-winning Cantonese cuisine in a setting designed by noted British designer Sir Terence Conan, Above and Beyond is another one of those places that will have you gawking at the featured artwork within the venue. It boasts a contemporary Chinese art collection to be enjoyed along with the beautifully presented dishes by executive chef Paul Tsui. If you’re having trouble deciding, go for the dim sum platter which gives you a bit of everything – barbecue pork buns, steamed shrimp and bamboo shoot dumplings, abalone tart with diced chicken to name a few. Book ahead at a table by the tall windows for those coveted Victoria Harbour views.

Where:  Level 28, 17 Science Museum Road Tsim Sha Tsui East, Kowloon
Book:    3400 1318 or 

 

Al Molo

TST (Ocean Terminal), Italian Restaurant, Terrace

Don’t let this mall-based restaurant put you off. Escape the hubbub of Ocean Terminal and settle yourself outside for some harbourfront dining while checking out the scene across the water. Indulge in satisfying Italian cuisine under the helm of famed New York chef Michael White – all pasta is handmade and the open fire pizza oven produces some excellent flat crust pizzas, they way Italians like ’em.

Where:   Shop G63, G/F, Ocean Terminal, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Book:     2730 7900

 

Ozone

Kowloon (ICC), Cocktail Bar, Asian Tapas

You will inevitably end up here, probably because an out-of-town guest asks you to take them to the highest bar in the world. It really is a cool experience, as you’re beamed up 118 floors above the city for some truly jaw-dropping views from the bar’s terrace. You’ll feel completely ripped off on bad weather days, as you won’t see much but cloudy mist through the windows, but hopefully the clouds dissipate while you’re up there because you will never see the city like this. And when they do, you can even sense it, as the chairs get a bit damp and the mist floats above your head. The drinks are notoriously pricey, but who cares when you’re 1,608 feet above sea level?

Where: Level 118, ICC, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon
Contact: 2263 2270 or 

 

Tin Lung Heen

TST, Cantonese Fine Dining

Way up on the 102nd floor of the ICC at the Ritz Carlton, Tin Lung Heen is a 2 Michelin starred restaurant offering refined Cantonese cuisine, including fabulous dim sum. The views are something else, and so is the discreet and attentive service. Expect to leave with a lighter wallet and a satisfyingly heavier belly, the whole experience at Tin Lung Heen is phenomenal.

Where:   Level 102, International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West, Kowloon

Book:       2263 2270 or 

 

Aqua

TST, Cocktail Bar, Italian / Japanese Restaurant

The place for watching fireworks and the harbour light show, the towering windows give you a spectacular vantage point for checking out the skyline. Many a celebrity pops by here when they’re in town, maybe because the dim lighting gives the place a private feel. Whether you’re looking for a romantic one-on-one dinner or are with a group of friends, the long venue nicely seats everyone either smack in front of the tall glass or in the semi-circular booths behind, which still provide prime viewing. Food here is of the contemporary Italian and Japanese variety and cocktails are taken seriously – they have various tonic to go with their vast selection of gin, and their signature cocktails are exquisite. But be warned, it will put a dent in your wallet – even a bottle of beer will cost you $90.

Where:    29/F and 30/F, One Peking, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Book:    3427 2288 or book online

 

Morton’s at The Sheraton

TST, Steakhouse and Bar

Morton’s is known for it’s top notch service and perfectly cooked steaks. The decor is simple, but anyway the star of the show is the harbour views from each and every table. This place is a pricier option, perfect for a special occasion. If you’re in the mood for something more casual then settle in at the comfortable bar for some of their award winning wines and sample the tasty and well priced ‘bar bites’ menu.

Where:   The Sheraton Hotel & Towers, Fourth Level, 20 Nathan Road, Kowloon

Book:      2732 2343 or

 

Hutong

TST, Northern Chinese Restaurant

When the door to the lift opens onto the 28th floor of the One Peking building, you will gasp at the beautiful setting in front of you: hanging red Chinese lanterns, silk curtains, striking wooden furniture and an array of Chinese antiques. The restaurant is beautifully lit for special evenings watching the sunset over the harbour but just as stunning in the day for their exotic brunch. It truly is a stunning venue and will impress your visiting friends in many ways – the view, the decor and the enticing Chinese cuisine.

Where:  28/F, One Peking, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Book:     3428 8342 or book online

 

Sky Lounge at the Sheraton

Kowloon, Cocktail Bar / Snacks / Afternoon Tea

Mum in town? Take her to the 18th floor of the Sheraton Hotel in TST to the Sky Lounge for afternoon tea with a view. Or if you’re looking for a place to talk shop with a client, this is also a good choice. We wouldn’t recommend it for a chic night out or a lively atmosphere, but it does boast those gorgeous harbour scenes that we love.

Where:    18/F, 20 Nathan Road, Kowloon
Book:      2369 1111 (ext. 4)

 

Spasso

TST East, Italian Restaurant, Cocktail Bar, Terrace 

Spasso has a sprawling space perfect for big groups if you’re in the mood for comforting Italian food. The dishes will not blow you away, but the setting boasts a great harbour vantage point to watch the red-sailed junk float by or the fireworks at Chinese New Year.

Where:   G5-8, 12-17, Empire Centre, 68 Mody Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui East, Kowloon
Book:     2730 8027 or 

 

Felix at The Peninsula

TST, Modern European Restaurant, Cocktail Bar

You’ve probably heard of the Felix due to its toilets – the men’s room, to be specific. High on the 28th floor of the gorgeous Peninsula Hotel the gents get a magnificent view of Victoria Harbour via a sheet of glass in front of the urinals. But there’s more to Felix, which you’ll see as you enter the dimly-lit passageway from the lift leading you into an impressive setting designed by Philippe Starck. Walk up the eye-catching spiral staircase and you’ll enter the American Bar, where you can peer down at diners feasting on modern European cuisine by Chef Yoshiharu Kaji and, even better, at the glittering harbour vistas through floor-to-ceiling windows.

Where:   28/F, Salisbury Road, Kowloon
Book:     2696 6778 or [email protected]

 

Eyebar

TST, Bar, Terrace

The staff here wear nautical-inspired clothing to go with the maritime theme of the place (the name references the protective ‘eye’ found on the prow of old Chinese ships). The outdoor bar perched on the top floor of iSQUARE offers wraparound views for an ultimate look at the city, and they do special nights on New Year’s Eve that give you a great spot to see the fireworks. Try their signature Suzie Wong cocktail in a souvenir tumbler that’s yours to take home.

Where:    30/F, iSQUARE, 63 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon
Book:      2487 3988 or [email protected]

 

Wooloomooloo Prime TST

TST (see also Causeway Bay & Wan Chai), Steakhouse, Bar, Terrace

Enjoy your steak in style at Wooloomooloo Prime TST. Check out the sparkling 270 degree harbour views from their floor to ceiling windows on the 21st floor of The One on Nathan Road. As well as their signature 150 day grain fed Australian Black Angus beef, you can upgrade to 200 days grain fed Australian steaks. If you’re feeling hungry they offer cuts ranging from 10oz to a hearty 20oz. Don’t miss their free flow weekend brunch.

Where:   Level 21 The ONE, 100 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Book:     2870 0087 or  

 

Nobu

TST, Modern Japanese, Afternoon Tea, great desserts

This spot will wow you from the time you first step into the hotel lobby until your last bite of dessert.  Known for its innovative new-style Japanese cuisine, the food is remarkable and it’s only complimented by the amazing views. The bite-size sashimi tacos are especially top-notch but if you want to try a few different things go with the Signature Tasting Menu. Make sure you leave space for mini donuts with caramel and candied bacon or a chocolate bento box with green tea ice-cream.

Where:   2/F InterContinental Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Book:     2313 2323 or

 

Rech

TST, French, Seafood, Children’s Menu

Hong Kongers are certainly spoilt for choice when it comes to great, local seafood, but if you want to step up your seafood game and go all-out luxe, Rech perfectly fits the bill. The space is simple, yet sophisticated and has a relaxing ambiance. From the raw dishes to the starters, and the pan-seared sole, you’ll find freshness and attention to detail in every plate. Having trouble deciding what to order? Go with their Signature Menu where you’ll be served several of their most popular courses. The food, the service and the front seat views across the Harbour make for a most memorable dining experience.

Read our review of Rech here

Where:   Lobby Level, InterContinental Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Book:     2313 2323

 

Le 39 V

West Kowloon (ICC), French, Sunday Brunch

The views from the 101st floor of the ICC are equally matched by the impressive dishes at the Hong Kong outpost of this award-winning Parisian restaurant. Chef Frédéric Vardon leads a team of professionals from France as they interpret his passions and philosophy through his intriguing and original twist on French cuisine. The warm and modern space pays tribute to the original restaurant’s interior design, transporting you to Paris from the moment you step inside. However, it will be impossible for you to forget you are in Hong Kong with unobstructed views of Victoria Harbour right outside.

Where:   Shop A, 101/F, International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West, West Kowloon
Book:     2977 5266

 

Harlan’s

TST, European, Terrace, Weekend brunch

It’s no small feat for a restaurant to be open for nearly 15 years in Hong Kong. However, since 2004, Harlan’s has built a legacy for their delicious dishes, stunning views and ambiance worthy of a special occasion. The decor is understated with elegant wood floors and black and white photographs on the walls. All of the tables have a spectacular views through their floor to ceiling windows and the tables are spaced out enough to give a good feeling of opulence. Of course if you prefer to dine al fresco, there’s a nice, spacious outdoor area where one can sit back and relax with quite a lot of privacy. Longtime favorite dishes here include Japanese Kobe beef Carpaccio and Harlan’s Secret Truffle Dressing and Sea Salt-baked Whole Jet-fresh Fish for Two. On top of this, their 100-year Olive Oil, Bucatini, Lobster Basil and Shellfish Tomato Sauce keeps us coming here again and again. The carefully curated wine cellar has more than 2,000 bottles of wine and champagne with both rare vintage vinos from Europe and boutique wines from the US and Australia all on offer.

Where:   19/F, The ONE, 100 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Book:     2972 2222       

You can find our pick of Hong Kong’s best boozy brunches with views in this post.

 

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Nancy Matos is a lifestyle and culture writer from Vancouver, Canada currently based in Hong Kong and London.

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