Tatum Ancheta

No one has actually been to a speakeasy, well, unless you're 100 years old and have lived through Prohibition in the 1920s and early 1930s, that is. What we call 'speakeasies' in Hong Kong are themed bars inspired by the vestiges of the Prohibition era, bars that are intentionally hidden from plain sight, lacks signage, discreetly located in obscured entrances, and showcasing cocktails and experiences designed to look like you're going back in time.  Discovering these bars is already part of the drinking experience, and drinking at these 'hidden' gems can be a magical encounter. And while locating these 'secret' bars is not a daunting task, finding the very best is entirely a different matter. Read on to discover Hong Kong's best-disguised drinking holes and bars-within-bars that serve quality drinks that will keep you coming back for seconds.  RECOMMENDED: Looking for new bars? Here's a list of all the hottest openings in the city. 

Looking for alternative eats away from the city? Consider heading out to restaurants and bars that offer the best seafront views in town. You can escape the hustle and bustle, get out for a bit of a breather, and take in the panoramic ocean views. So, without further ado, here it is. Our list of the best beachside dining and drinking spots in Hong Kong.    Before you visit, make sure to contact the venue to check if there are any changes to their opening hours. RECOMMENDED: Book a table at one of the newest restaurants in Hong Kong. 

July is an exciting time for drink enthusiasts in Hong Kong as the city welcomes top bartenders and the hottest bar personalities from around the world to celebrate the much-anticipated announcement of Asia's 50 Best Bars 2023. The heart of the action is Rosewood Hong Kong, the official venue partner for the awards, where the private ceremony will take place on July 18. While the party is an exclusive invitation-only event, you can still tune in to the live stream on the 50 Best Bars Youtube channel. Another way to join in on the festivities is to attend the public masterclasses and guest bartender shifts happening around town. Wondering who’ll be behind the stick? Keep reading for a roundup of the must-visit bar shifts taking place this season. Be sure to bookmark this page, as we will update it as soon as we receive the latest news!    RECOMMENDED: Explore Hong Kong’s vibrant drinking culture with the help of our comprehensive bar guide.  

As we roll into a new month, we’re taking you on a journey to eat your way through Hong Kong and try the city’s latest openings. This month, check out all the best additions to the city's dining scene, from Los Angeles' famous egg-filled sandwiches to Hokkaido's award-winning soup curries, and more!Think we missed a new great dining place in Hong Kong? Shoot us an email at info.hk@timeout.com so we can check it out! RECOMMENDED: Take a look at our roundup of the 50 best restaurants and bars in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong is known for many things; its dynamic culinary scene, architectural mix of old and new, and of course, that iconic skyline. But that’s not all, as our concrete jungle is also wrapped in lush verdant hills with magnificent islands and dramatic rock formations surrounding us, and the best way to take in the city in all its mountainous glory is, yes that’s right, a hike. So, whether you’re a hiking novice, leading the charge, or simply want to check off some of Hong Kong’s must-hikes, we've outlined our favourites with tips and directions to help you on your way.  RECOMMENDED: Prefer things at a different pace? Go for a stroll in one of Hong Kong's Chinese-style gardens instead.

Hong Kong's skyline is legendary. Centred on Victoria Harbour, it's a nightly festival of neon and LED lights flickering against glass towers. There are many places in the city where you can glimpse these majestic skylines, but the best ones are those where you can drink and dine. Hong Kong has a bundle of rooftop bars that offer jaw-dropping views of the city. Whether you're planning a romantic night under the stars, a celebration with your nearest and dearest, or just looking for somewhere to get away from – or above – it all, one of these watering holes in Hong Kong is sure to have you covered.  RECOMMENDED: Also, check out these picturesque places to catch the sunset, or go for an adventure to Hong Kong's best spots for stargazing.

Exploring a crowded city alone isn't as scary as you thought it would be. Sometimes, doing things alone can be a surprisingly thrilling and rewarding experience. Being alone in a city allows you to move at your own pace and make spontaneous decisions about where to go and what to do – from discovering hidden gems, and indulging in local cuisine, to soaking up the unique atmosphere of the city. You can take your time to appreciate the sights and sounds around you and reflect on your ventures without any distractions. Whether you're a seasoned traveller, a first-time explorer, or just need some 'me' time in the city, we've rounded up the best things to do to help you maximise your time. RECOMMENDED: Tick off your Hong Kong bucket list with this comprehensive guide.

In case you haven’t heard, Hong Kong is giving out over 700,000 free airline tickets under the Hello Hong Kong campaign to boost city tourism. These tickets will be distributed in phases through airlines Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong Express, Hong Kong Airlines, and Greater Bay Airlines. Apart from the 500,000 tickets allotted for overseas travellers, around 80,000 tickets will be given away to Hong Kong residents.  Cathay Pacific has already rolled out several phases for Asian regions like Southeast Asia, mainland China, Europe, the Middle East, and South Africa. For the campaign’s latest instalment, Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong Airlines, and Greater Bay Airlines will be distributing a total of 24,000 tickets to travellers from Korea. Additionally, Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong Airlines and HK Express will be distributing over 26,000 round-trip tickets to travellers from Japan.We’ve gathered all the key information that you need to know, so that you can apply with ease. Please note that all giveaway pages will be written in their respective market’s languages. Make sure to bookmark this page, as we will update this with new information as soon as we hear it.RECOMMENDED: Take a look at our roundup of the 50 best things to do while you're in Hong Kong.

Although exploring all of Hong Kong’s wonders would take much longer than 48 hours, you can definitely squeeze in some of the must-visit places within that span of time. To help you get started, we’ve rounded up a 48-hour itinerary that you can use as a guide. From its iconic skyline and skyscrapers, famous attractions, and museums to award-winning bars and restaurants, we’ve got you covered.

Are you planning a group gathering in Hong Kong but struggling to find a restaurant that can accommodate everyone? Don't worry; you've come to the right place! Hong Kong is well-known for its vibrant food scene, with a plethora of dining options that cater to all tastes and budgets. However, finding a restaurant that can accommodate large groups can be a daunting task. So, whether you're planning a family reunion, a corporate event, or a birthday celebration, here's a roundup of restaurants in Hong Kong that offer great food and the perfect ambience for your group gatherings. RECOMMENDED: Table for one? Here are the best restaurants for solo dining in Hong Kong. 

Hong Kong’s dining scene is constantly evolving. Week after week, a new restaurant joins the F&B industry, so narrowing down where to actually book a table can be daunting. To help you, we created the Time Out Eat List and handpicked the best eateries in the city. From well-seasoned stalwarts to tasty newcomers, here’s a list of restaurants that we think you’ll be glad to try at least once or return to again and again. Read on for our pick of the 50 best restaurants in Hong Kong right now.  Rankings change every month depending on the latest and most creative offerings, so bookmark this page to keep updated and get some inspiration for where your next meal could be.  Eaten somewhere on this list and loved it? Know of a restaurant that should be on this list? Let us know! Tag us on Instagram and use the hashtag #TimeOutEatList. Click the video below to see a sneak peek of the top restaurants to visit this month View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Hong Kong (@timeouthk)   RECOMMENDED: Looking for bars? Whatever drinking experience you’re after, there's a bar waiting for you to explore in Hong Kong. Click here for our list of the 50 best bars to visit right now. Stay in the Loop: Sign up for our free weekly newsletter to get the latest in Hong Kong’s city news, culture, and dining.

With summer in full swing, the city is offering tons of exciting experiences to embrace the hot and sometimes rainy weather. If you're looking for the latest foodie happenings this season, we have the scoop on the latest F&B news in the city. From new menus and exciting product launches to fun events, keep reading to discover some tasty happenings around the city. Save this page for more updates! We'll keep adding the latest news as soon as we hear it! RECOMMENDED: Take your four-legged friends out with you for a meal at these dog-friendly restaurants in the city.

Join the much-awaited celebration of bars in Hong Kong as the city hosts Asia’s 50 Best Bars awards ceremony for the first time. At the heart of the action is Rosewood Hong Kong, the awards’ official venue partner, where the private ceremony will take place on July 18.  To kick off the festivities, Rosewood’s flagship bar, DarkSide, is hosting Barcelona’s renowned bar Paradiso, ranked number 1 in the world at The World’s Best Bar 2022. From July 16 to 17, 9pm to midnight, mixologist Giacomo Giannotti will team up with DarkSide’s director of bars, Simone Rossi, and bar manager, KT Lam, to shake and stir world-class signature cocktails for everyone to enjoy. You will have the opportunity to taste Paradiso’s most popular cocktails, including their Negroni riff called Evolution Negroni with mango, vanilla, and chai tea flavours, the refreshing gin-based Tesla, and the bubbly and complex Fleming with miso-flavoured tequila blanco, beer syrup, Mancino Secco, among other cocktails with exciting ingredients. Rosewood Hong Kong is adding to the celebration by launching the ‘A Sense of Taste’ bar-hopping experience at their F&B outlets. Guests can sip and savour delicious cocktails at Henry, Bayfare Social, Chaat, Asaya Kitchen, DarkSide, The Dining Room, and BluHouse. Tokens for the experience can be purchased at Rosewood’s online shop starting on July 20 to September 30, with validity until December 30. You can choose from three bars or enjoy the full experience with all seven outlet

  July is a highly anticipated month for food and beverage enthusiasts in Hong Kong, as the city gears up to host Asia's 50 Best Bars 2023 ceremony. This event will bring together some of the most renowned bartenders and industry talents from around the world, who will be showcasing their skills and creativity through a series of guest shifts across town. With so much talent and excitement in the air, modern trattoria Testina is launching their Friends from Milan series to join in on the festivities.  Don't miss the chance to see acclaimed mixologist Benjamin Cavagna behind the bar at Testina on Sunday, July 16th as he mixes up signature cocktails. Cavagna is the mixologist of Milan bar 1930, which was ranked number 35 in the World’s 50 Best Bars 2022 and is dubbed as "the most inaccessible bar of all Milan" due to its highly secret location and exclusive entry requirements. This will be his second guest shift in the city after his last visit in May, so be sure to catch him this time if you missed him last time.  Cavagna will be presenting an Aperitivo Milanese along with Testina's chef Marco Xodo. Guests can walk in without the need to reserve seats and enjoy classic Italian cocktails and small bites, such as Riso al Salto and Veal Milanese Bun. Meanwhile, on July 25th and 26th, catch the two-day shift of chef Federico Sisti from Frangente Milano, one of the coolest restaurants in Milan serving a seasonally-led menu that offers contemporary versions of traditional Italian cl

If you're looking for new places to enjoy summer offerings, Mira Moon will be reopening their restaurant and bar, Supergiant Social Dining & Cocktail Bar, on June 15th. The venue, located on the third floor of Mira Moon in Causeway Bay, will serve South-East Asian staples along with Chinese mythology-inspired cocktails crafted by award-winning mixologist Lorenzo Antinori. Guests can enjoy a casual dining experience from the private Moon Lounge or the Secret Garden open-air terrace, both of which have a chic and contemporary interior designed by Marcel Wanders. You can indulge in delicious bites from their menu, which was created by Mira Hotel Collection's culinary director, Chef Sheldon Fonseca. There is a range of small plates to choose from, including the Kinilaw Tuna ($158), a tuna ceviche served with fish skin cracklings (chicharon) and fresh coriander. They also have larger sharing plates, such as the Patrani Giant Seabass ($268) in banana leaf with masala spices and the Massaman Curry Angus Ox Cheek ($278). Guests can indulge in delicious drinks from a fairy tale-themed menu crafted by mixologist Lorenzo Antinori. Choose from any of the five themed cocktails, priced at $128 each, that evoke the spirit of the Moon Goddess and Jade Rabbit. Start with the refreshing The Fox, The Monkey and The Rabbit, made with gin, aperitif wine, lemon and pineapple juice, almond, and nutmeg. Then move on to more potent drinks like The Elixir, which is tequila-based and made with lime jui

Watch the video below for a first look at Bar Leone: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Hong Kong (@timeouthk) Hong Kong’s bar scene is continuously evolving, with new establishments popping up almost every month. As the weather warms up, even more, new bars are set to open in the city. Following the recent announcement of The Savory Project’s opening - the second project of renowned bar Coa – top bar at Asia’s 50 Best Bars list for 2021 and 2022 - another highly anticipated addition is Bar Leone - the first independent venture by award-winning mixologist Lorenzo Antinori, formerly the beverage manager at Four Seasons Hong Kong’s Argo.    Set to open by the end of June on Bridges Street in Soho, Bar Leone is a venue that aims to celebrate the community and spotlight classic cocktails. “We hope to become a reference point within Hong Kong’s F&B community, but also be known as a neighbourhood bar that you can come back to again and again,” shares Lorenzo. “Our aim is to create a curated experience which is unapologetically nostalgic whilst also having a bit of fun,” he adds.  Bar Leone aims to embody the spirit of the strong, sovereign lion, the symbol of Trastevere – Lorenzo’s hometown – and draw inspiration from traditional Roman bars that are integral to the city’s 21 neighbourhoods. The place is relaxed, homey, and fun, reflecting Lorenzo’s playful character. Expect burnt orange banquettes, a mahogany bar, church-style candles, poster

Watch the video below for a sneak peek on their new offerings: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Hong Kong (@timeouthk) Fireside, a concept under the Cupping Room group, is all about open-flame grilling and allowing the flavour and complexity of each ingredient to shine. Expect dishes from seafood, vegetables, and meat, including desserts all grilled and smoked with punchy flavours of smoked embers using binchotan charcoal and firewood from lychee, almond, and applewood. Not confined to one culinary direction, the restaurant initially opened in 2021 with executive chef Miguel Gallo at the helm, featuring a tasting menu of hot and cold dishes fired with flavours of smoke from their open-fire grill. In September 2022, head chef Jaime Ortolá (formerly of La Paloma) took over the kitchen, changing the offering from a tasting menu to an à la carte and set options that can be paired with approachable wines, beer, and cocktails. Along with grilled premium cuts of meats from Australia, Italy, and Spain, Fireside signature and crowd favourites such as the mouthwatering carabinero made with Scarlet cardinal prawn served with flambadou forged beef fat drippings can still be found on the menu. New additions include a rotating weekly special from chef Jaime’s kitchen, which changes based on the freshest produce available at the restaurant. This special utilises the freshest seafood or vegetables and may sometimes include Norwegian wolffish – a botto

If you’re looking for activities to do to celebrate Mother’s Day with your mums, head to GiG at Ovolo Southside and catch the insightful exhibit of award-winning Filipina Xyza Cruz Bacani. Presented by Ovolo Hotels, PathFinders, and Morgan McKinley, the exhibit will feature thought-provoking photographs from her published book We Are Like Air, offering a raw and insightful look into migration and motherhood. Mark your calendars on May 13 and 14, and don’t miss the opening party on Friday, May 12, from 6pm to 9pm. Xyza is known for photographing monochrome images of Hong Kong that reflect her experience as a second-generation Migrant Domestic Worker, covering topics like migration, motherhood, and social issues. Her works led her to showcase exhibits all across the globe and earned her a scholarship at New York University (NYU), which she recently finished in 2022. Her images for We Are Like Air are a celebration of the unconditional and sacrificial love of migrant women mothers. The exhibition hopes to honour migrant women and mothers and see them as champions.   Catch Xyza during the event and grab a signed copy of her book ($400). Tickets are available at $300 per person for the launch (with a complimentary $100 voucher for Ovolo Southside’s Mediterranean restaurant Kömune) and $100 for regular dates. Book your tickets via eventbrite.hk.  

  Hong Kong is home to many pseudo ‘speakeasies’ and ‘hidden’ bars inspired by the vestiges of the Prohibition era. But unlike the olden times, their locations and offerings are not really a secret and are inaccessible to everyone. That’s what makes the 1930 cocktail bar from Milan – ranked number 35 in the World’s 50 Best Bars 2022 – different from the rest. Touted as ‘the most inaccessible bar of all Milan’, 1930 is a secret. No one knows the address unless they’re ‘in the know’, and you have to be invited and to even be granted entry. Lucky for us, we don’t have to fly all the way to Italy to make it a mission to try its offerings. All you have to do is head to The St. Regis Bar on May 2 and 3 to catch the bar shift of 1930’s mixologist Benjamin Cavagna. For two nights, from 7.30pm, Benjamin will work his magic behind the stick to present exclusive cocktails made with Moët Hennessy Diageo spirits.  If you’re a cocktail and bar enthusiast, this is a bar shift you wouldn’t want to miss. Who knows, maybe you can get up close and personal with Benjamin, and he might just grant you an invitation to his secret bar. Though it’s not a guarantee, it’s worth a try, so you can visit 1930 on your next trip to Milan! For enquiries contact The St. Regis Bar at 2138 6800.

The legendary Highland Park distillery, located on the Orkney Islands off the northeastern coast of Scotland, known for its delicate, sweet and aromatic peated whiskies, is celebrating its 225th anniversary in style with the release of its rare 54 Year Old whisky – a true testament to the brand’s unwavering commitment to craft and quality. The liquid was meticulously crafted by master whisky maker Gordon Motion and bottled in a packaging designed by John Galvin, an award-winning luxury, bespoke objects designer. The 54 Year Old whisky (46.9 percent ABV) was originally distilled in 1968, combining four refill butts and six refill hogsheads in February 2008, which were then transferred into first-fill European sherry seasoned oak casks for their final maturation. The result is a whisky that is deep and complex, bold and intense, yet nuanced and refined. It marks the brand’s oldest-ever release to date, with only 225 bottles available in the market. Whisky collectors will have a chance to bag one of only 10 to 12 bottles available in the city at an auction with Bonhams Auction in Hong Kong on May 18, 2023. The starting bid is $320,000 and may go up to $400,000 or more, and proceeds of the sale will be donated to Save the Children Fund, commonly known as Save the Children, a leading humanitarian organisation for children in Hong Kong and around the world. The winning bidder will receive a unique adventure for two in Orkney, where the distillery resides, complete with plane ticket

After the successful collaboration with The Peninsula Hong Kong for an afternoon tea cruise by the harbour, the famous Star Ferry partners with The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) and invites everyone to come on board for a harbour tour with their cute doggies. From April 29 to May 1, fur parents can enjoy a fun tour across the harbour with their precious pooches onboard the iconic Star Ferry for the first time. The event aims to promote pet-friendly public transportation in Hong Kong, at the same time, encourage the community to support animal rescue, adoption services, desexing welfare programmes, and all other SPCA projects. The 45-minute harbour tour will run on three-time slots from 1pm, 3pm, and 5pm just before the sunset and will start at Central Pier No. 7. The first 50 dogs to register on the platform for the event will receive a VistaJet - VistaPet Pochettes ($500) that includes bio-organic pet food, treats created by a renowned chef, water-free pet shampoo, wipes for salon-quality fur care, and a rope toy. All dogs participating in the tours will receive a sailor-themed hat and bandana and a customised certificate of harbour tour completion. Those who will book on April 29, 3pm, will be able to join the Pet-A-Hood-themed ferry date and will receive a special goodie bag with a tote bag, envelope, treat box, water bowl, and a Pet-A-Hood sticker.  Tickets for the ride are priced at $200 per adult and child aged two or above and $199 per dog. Al

Argo is Four Seasons Hotel's multi-awarded bar, started by its former beverage manager and Time Out's 2020 Bartender of the Year, Lorenzo Antinori. The bar docked in Hong Kong in 2021 to challenge the way we think about drinks. As part of the second phase of the hotel's renovation, it replaced the former Blue Bar located in the hotel's lobby.  Compared to Caprice bar, located on the sixth floor of the hotel, which has a more formal setting and focuses on wines and cocktails with seasonal ingredients, Argo is more relaxed, highlights innovative spirits, and offers a conceptual cocktail programme.  Their inaugural cocktail menu, 'Here Today, Gone Tomorrow,' – Time Out's Best Cocktail Programme winner in 2021 – celebrates six staple ingredients – coffee, honey, rice, cacao, vanilla, and apples – that face an uncertain future because of climate change or the way it is cultivated. Replacing this menu in 2022, the bar launched the second volume of its cocktail menu, Cook Book, inspired by Hong Kong's culinary traditions. The menu features 12 new cocktails using soybean, apricot kernel, XO sauce, vegan char siu, black vinegar, and aged tea.  Spirit aficionados can explore unique liquors – available in 50ml shots, tasting flights, or as a classic cocktail – with the help of the bar's spirit bible, 'Field Guide to the World's Innovative Spirits', that highlights each bottle's unique story and origin. Interesting bottlings include the world's first AI-created gin Monker's Garkel, lab-m

Renowned chefs Agustin Ferrando Balbi and Ricardo Chaneton from Michelin-starred restaurants Ando and Mono have banded together to open Rosita in late 2022. Located on Ship Street in Wan Chai, the Latin American restaurant is fast becoming a neighbourhood favourite among residents and an after-work crowd from various parts of the city. Rosita, meaning 'little flower' in Spanish, brings a modern take on Latin American cuisine inspired by dishes that the founders typically eat from their family table. The kitchen is led by young Italian chef Marco Livoti – founder of Holy Cannoli and previously Sake Central's chef – who gives each Rosita plate his utmost care and attention and interprets familiar Latin American dishes using flavours and culinary techniques from French and Japanese cuisine. Enjoy a filling tasting menu (lunch, only available on weekends – $488/four-course or $788/six-course; daily dinner – $988/six-course) that starts with corn cakes arepa, a staple food in Venezuela and Colombia, which guests can enjoy with a mousse or butter depending on the availability. This is followed by refreshing amberjack ceviche with kohlrabi and celery before sharing plates of hearty lobster stew guiso – that Marco gives an Italian twist by adding pasta shells and using lobster instead of meat mixed with cherry tomatoes, carrots, and radishes – or the chef's special (+$628) South American chicken rice called arroz con pollo. Guests can end the meal with the creamy popcorn sea salt ice

Agora is the second restaurant venture by Madrid-born chef Antonio Oviedo. If 22 Ships is any indication of what Agora is like, it is nothing short of amazing. Unlike the ever-popular 22 Ships focusing on upscale casual tapas, Agora is a contemporary Spanish fine-dining concept that focuses on the chef’s roots to push out degustation menus highlighting seasonal ingredients from Spain and innovative cooking techniques like cultivation and dehydration.  Dine amidst intimate surroundings and enjoy elevated Spanish dishes carefully crafted in the open kitchen. The best seat in the house is, of course, the bar where you can watch the theatrical preparation of each dish. The restaurant offers lunch and dinner seasonal menus (starts at $1,388 to $1,788 per head), which serves predominantly fish and shellfish, one or two meat courses, and desserts. If you'd like to request pescatarian options, you must send your request ahead when you book as it is subject to availability. The meal ritual starts with a freshly baked serving of candeal bread – a traditional Spanish bread, crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, which you can dip on Agora's Verdial extra virgin olive oil that came from centenary mountain olive trees from the Axarquía region in Malaga – followed by Erizo, a sea urchin flan topped with sea urchin served with slices of muscat grapes, a good prelude to the meals that come after. Standout dishes include Ventresca – tuna belly soaked in Agora's homemade fermented fi

Ahead of Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2023 ceremony, which will take place in Hong Kong for the first time in July, the prestigious list has announced the winner of the Altos Bartenders' Bartender Award 2023: Hong Kong's queen of mixology, Beckaly Franks. This award category was initially launched in 2018 and hailed its inaugural winner, Vijay Mudaliar from Native bar in Singapore, as well as Shingo Gokan from Speak Low in Shanghai in 2019, followed by Jay Khan from Coa in Hong Kong in 2020. The Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award is a category that has been collectively voted for by bartenders from establishments that have been listed on the 2023 edition of Asia’s 50 Best Bars. Franks was recognized for her significant impact on Asia’s bar sector throughout her career. In 2015, she co-founded an award-winning American dive bar, The Pontiac in Hong Kong, and has since opened several other bars in the city, including Quality Goods Club, Call Me Al, and Artifact. As one of the most influential personalities in the city, she constantly pushes the boundaries of the drinking culture, putting the city on the map as one of the best in the region. Her efforts continue to pave the way for aspiring women bartenders in the city. Photograph: Courtesy The Pontiac According to Franks, “Bartending is a privilege, not a right. I have been fortunate enough to be able to aggressively follow my heart and my passion for taking care of people in my own way, and I am grateful to be recognised for it with t

Attended by the world's best chefs, renowned food critics, and food enthusiasts, the highly-anticipated World's 50 Best Restaurants 2023 list was announced at a live awards ceremony on June 20th at the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia. The list includes 50 restaurants from 24 territories across five continents, with Peru's capital city taking centre stage and dominating the rankings with the most restaurants in the top 50. Central secured the top spot, followed by Maido at number six, Kjolle at number 28 (a new entry), and Mayta at number 47. And though Bangkok’s Le Du took the top spot at Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants for 2023, it only landed at number 15 after Singapore’s Odette, a French-inspired restaurant with Asian influences, took the top spot in Asia at number 14. Odette’s chef, Julien Roye, also took home the chef’s choice award. Another Bangkok restaurant, Gaggan Anand, ranked 17. Meanwhile, the Middle East’s highest-ranked restaurant was Trèsind Studio, a Dubai-based establishment at number 11. Hong Kong, like last year, only had one entry - the celebrated Cantonese restaurant, The Chairman, which was named the best restaurant in Asia for 2021. The Chairman, now located on Wellington Street, ranked at the 50th spot on the list. Photograph: Courtesy The Chairman Other notable awards include Pía Salazar winning the Best Pastry Chef award for her desserts at Nuema in Quito, Ecuador. Miguel Ángel Millán from Madrid's Diverxo was awarded Best Sommelier, while New Yo

It feels like it has been ages since we last saw the Hong Kong airport empty and quiet. Today, the airport is as bustling as ever, with people rushing and lining up at check-in stations to come to and fly out of the city. While some venues are still closed, including some spa establishments and local restaurants, which we eagerly await to reopen, many stores and facilities are again operating in the airport. Dining destinations serve hungry passengers waiting for their flights or killing time during their layover. Additionally, the airport now boasts new Instagrammable multimedia zones, and one of the area’s latest openings is the first checkout-free convenience store. Those looking for more things to do in the city can watch out for the opening of Intervals this month. Intervals is a new bar that aims to elevate the airport experience with artisanal drinks and food programmes set amongst the excellent vantage point of the newly opened Skybridge.  Developed by Mei Mei Song, Plaza Premium Group’s director of Global Brands and Transformation, together with The Woods’ creative director Victoria Chow, Intervals is set to soft open on June 14 at HKIA’s Skybridge. Along with unbeatable views from the Skybridge, the new venue will welcome passengers in an immersive space designed to transport them away from the hustle and bustle of the airport.  Photograph: Courtesy IntervalsPinchos The drinks programme is a real highlight of Intervals. It will feature a series of miniature drinks

Simon Rogan's bakery and wine bar has recently expanded to become a fully operational restaurant, serving dinner from 6pm onwards. The two-floor venue initially opened as a bakery, where guests could grab a coffee and artisanal pastries to go, before eventually welcoming guests upstairs at The Bottleman where patrons can enjoy wine and bar snacks. Although their kitchen whipped up delicious bar pairings for their excellent wine collection, their dish menu was limited and had fewer dining tables. Photograph: Courtesy The Baker & The Bottleman Now, you can sip on natural and biodynamic wines and pair them with hearty dishes from the à la carte menu, created by executive chef Oli Marlow together with restaurant head chef Ollie Eisendhardt and bakery head chef Benjamin Lee. The refreshed menu at The Baker & The Bottleman reflects the ethos of the Simon Rogan restaurant group, where seasonality and sustainability are at the forefront. Independent growers and small-scale producers will be put in the spotlight. Photograph: Courtesy The Baker & The Bottleman Guests have the option to enjoy a three-course set menu priced at $380 or choose from the à la carte menu that features the bakery's signature breadbasket ($30) and other small plates such as beef tartare ($180) and grilled cuttlefish ($150). For those looking for filling main dishes that are great for sharing, the half-dry-aged duck ($210) is highly recommended. It is served with confit duck leg ragout, roasted parsnips, and

The refreshing, light, and versatile nature of rosé wine makes it a perfect choice for summer drinking. And now that summer is in full swing in Hong Kong, it’s the best time for al fresco drinking with an excellent glass of rosé in hand. This season, Pernod Ricard, one of the world’s leading premium spirits companies, is inviting you to taste cuvées of their latest acquisition, the Sainte Marguerite en Provence wines by Fayard family, one of the 18 Côtes de Provence Crus Classés estates, makers of fine Provence rosé wines characterised by their finesse, fresh aromas, and their crystalline colour that have been certified organic since 2000 and vegan since 2015. Photograph: Courtesy Sainte MargueriteChâteau Sainte Marguerite Symphonie Sainte Marguerite en Provence officially launches in Hong Kong in an exclusive event at the latest rooftop hotspot in the city, Cardinal Point, one of the venues of the multi-experience space Forty-Five located at one of the best vantage points in Central to enjoy Hong Kong’s skyline. Hongkongers can now taste the company’s latest rosé Château Sainte Marguerite Symphonie rosé at Cardinal Point, by the glass ($150) or by the bottle ($820).  Photograph: Courtesy Sainte MargueriteSainte Marguerite vineyard in Provence First created in 1999, the Symphonie is a blend of three grape varieties: Grenache, Cinsault, and Vermentino, sourced from the Maison Sainte Marguerite vineyard and the winery’s partner winegrowers. Additionally, the winery also off

After being closed off from the rest of the world, Las Vegas Sands and Sands China celebrated Macau’s renewed tourism with a grand party to officially open The Londoner Macao on Cotai Strip. The festivities took place at The Londoner Arena last May 25 and were attended by A-listers and top officials of Macau. The event was officiated by none other than the iconic English footballer David Beckham, who also serves as the global ambassador of Sands Resorts Macao. He has been seen in Macau and Hong Kong in the past few days, making appearances to support the hotel’s much-awaited opening. Photograph: Tatum AnchetaGuests of honour, including David Beckham, officially mark the celebration of The Londoner Macao at The Londoner Arena The event marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Cotai Strip, as The Londoner Macao set the standard for luxury and entertainment in the region. Performances during the celebration included renowned piano virtuoso Lang Lang, Hong Kong singer-songwriter GEM, and Chinese musical theatre artist and actor Ayanga. The star-studded celebration was a reminder of the city’s resilience and its ability to bounce back stronger than ever.  Photograph: Tatum AnchetaDavid Beckham with piano virtuoso Lang Lang and vocalist and actor Ayanga The resort’s impressive redesign, inspired by London’s iconic landmarks, has elevated its status as a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike. Guests can immerse themselves in British history and culture throug

Renowned Thai chef Thitid ‘Ton’ Tassanakajohn, known in the region for his contemporary and innovative approach to Thai cuisine, is setting up shop on the seventh floor of K11 Musea this June to introduce his new restaurant Niras.  The new restaurant is named after ‘niras’ or ‘nirat’, a form of Thai poetry that celebrates travel, adventure, and romance. It will mark the first time that chef Ton and his business partner, Rungroj 'Tao' Ingudananda, bring the taste and essence of their acclaimed Bangkok restaurant, Le Du - crowned no.1 on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2023 - overseas. According to chef Ton, cooking is his poetry, and it's his way of showcasing Thailand's diverse and vibrant cuisine to the world. Therefore, naming the restaurant Niras felt appropriate. Photograph: Courtesy NirasBanana prawn with seaweed and spicy beetroot Niras aims to embody the same cooking philosophy as the famous restaurant Le Du, offering classic Thai dishes with international influences, using only the best seasonal ingredients. The culinary team at Niras is led by head chef Mai Naruemon Ratiphuthilap, who brings eight years of invaluable experience from Le Du, and second head chef Bua Sarocha Rajatanawin, formerly of Siwilai City Club and The House on Sathorn at W Bangkok. Together, they will create a Thai fine dining experience with lunch and dinner tasting menus that change with the seasons.  Photograph: Courtesy NirasNiras chefs Mia Naruemon Ratiphuthilap, Ton ThiTid Tassanakajohn, and

Located on Lantau Island, just a short distance from Disneyland, is Discovery Bay, a resort town that offers picturesque scenery and respite from the bustle of the city. It is a residential and commercial area popular as a weekend day trip destination for people looking for serene ocean views and outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, water sports, and golf. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Discovery Bay is the perfect place to explore, with many hidden gems waiting to be discovered, including rare bird species and ecological spectacles. To help visitors explore its natural wonders and learn more about the neighbourhood, Discovery Bay has released a new nature guidebook called ‘A Breath of Discovery.’ Those interested can get a copy of the guidebook at DB Plaza concierge, or you can visit this site to download a digital copy.  Photograph: Courtesy Discovery Bay The book provides routes, tips, and nuggets of information that, unless you’re in the know, would be left undiscovered. By following the recommended hiking routes, visitors can uncover historical spots and lush forests where they can observe fascinating species of birds, plants, and other animals. Those who want to get started on the adventure can join the scheduled hiking tour on May 28, guided by hiking expert and wildlife photographer James Kwok. The route will take visitors from Mui Wo to Discovery Bay through Nim Shue Wan.  Photograph: Courtesy Discovery BayDiscovery Bay Nature Guidebook Discovery Bay is

The highly-anticipated unveiling of the Michelin Guide’s 15th edition for Hong Kong and Macau culminated in a live event hosted at the Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau and Grand Lisboa Macau on April 26, 2023. This is the first time the ceremony has returned to a physical format in three years because of the pandemic. It was attended by the city’s top chefs, restaurateurs, and food enthusiasts.  The 2023 edition recognises 95 restaurants across the two territories, comprising 78 venues for Hong Kong and 17 spots for Macau.  In Hong Kong, nine new one-star additions were announced - six newly awarded and three promoted – including contemporary Italian restaurant Noi by celebrated Argentinian chef Paulo Airaudo, Italian restaurant Estro serving elevated Neapolitan cuisine by Naples-born chef Antimo Maria Merone, Japanese omakase restaurant Godenya by chef Goshima Shinya, contemporary European restaurant Neighborhood, and Chinese restaurants The Chairman (who got a new star for their new address), D.H.K. (which closed the same day it received its star) and The Demon Celebrity by chef Alvin Leung and with chef Cheng Kam Fu, among others.  Photograph: Courtesy Noi Chef Hideaki Sato’s innovative Japanese-French restaurant Ta Vie was promoted to three Michelin stars. Meanwhile, chef-owner Alvin Leung’s newly relocated Bo Innovation and Lai Ching Heen (renamed from Regent Hong Kong’s legendary Yan Toh Heen) were given two stars, while The St. Regis Hong Kong’s Rùn is promoted from

Over the years, Hong Kong has consistently been featured on Asia's 50 Best Bars list, with a number of its bars ranking among the top 10 and two consecutive years listing Oaxan inspired by Coa as number one. Since Asia's 50 Best Bars launched in 2016, the top spot has been shared between Hong Kong and Singapore. This year, as travel comes back into the fold and SAR is now open to the rest of the world, we're finally hosting the most-awaited live annual awards ceremony, a testament to the city's vibrant bar scene, fueled by a growing community of bartenders and mixologists who are constantly pushing the boundaries of the cocktail industry. The annual Asia's 50 Best Bars list celebrates the best bars across the continent and recognises the talent, creativity, and dedication of the many bar personalities driving the industry. The list is chosen by Asia's 50 Best Bars Academy, a panel of 250 industry experts, including bartenders, journalists, cocktail aficionados, and other industry professionals. Every year, the prestigious list is eagerly awaited by bartenders and bar enthusiasts across Asia, as well as around the world. It serves as a guide to the best bars in the region, highlighting the latest trends and innovations in the world of drinks. The eighth annual edition will be revealed on July 18 and will launch a series of events across the city in partnership with the Hong Kong Tourism Board. It will be the first full-scale gathering of the bar community in Asia since 2019, a

After opening a series of new standout venues in Hong Kong – including Mostly Harmless, Call Me Al, Ponty Cafe, and Quality Goods Club – bar industry heavyweights and real-life partners Beckaly Franks and Ezra Star are giving the city another cool new spot to enjoy. Located in Jardine House's new BaseHall 2, modern Japanese eatery Artifact is finally opening its speakeasy-style bar adjacent to the restaurant.      Photograph: Courtesy ArtifactArtifact Bar rendering Inspired by "surreal geometry and the serene atmospheres found in underground water reservoirs", the venue design is transportative, reminiscent of dystopian sci-fi movies like the 1997 American film Gattaca. According to the founders, the bar experience – through hospitality and service – aims to transport guests to a third place that is neither home nor work.  Photograph: Courtesy ArtifactArtifact Bar rendering It will seat 40 people, and the bar will be helmed by J Frank, a hospitality manager with extensive experience in the F&B industry hailing from different venues around London, including Absolute Taste from The View from The Shard, Another House, and Shoreditch Bar Group.    Photograph: Courtesy Artifact "Transporting guests by way of food or drink is what Artifact does. It is the journey of taste and place by way of flavour and connection," shares Ezra. The bar will feature a rotating cocktail menu inspired by time and terroir, strongly focusing on brown spirits and bottles not found elsewhere in Hon

Maison Courvoisier, the world's most awarded Cognac house, recently held its first cocktail competition in Hong Kong, challenging a new generation of bartenders to push the boundaries of Cognac in mixology. Hosted by one of Hong Kong's leading wine and spirits distributors, Jebsen Wines and Spirits, the competition was held at The Mixing Room by Iron Fairies on March 29, 2023. Eight talented bartenders representing top bars in the city, including venues The Daily Tot, Quality Goods Club, Mostly Harmless, Four Seasons Hong Kong's Argo, The Mixing Room by Iron Fairies, Gishiki, and Ozone, were tasked to create a signature serve that highlights the versatility of Courvoisier Cognac. Photograph: Tai Ngai LungCourvoisier VSOP   Photograph: Tai Ngai Lung A delicate marriage of four crus, Courvoisier, presented in the bottle's new design inspired by the vibrant countryside of the Cognac region, is a rich and complex spirit with floral and woody notes that's great for sipping or mixing with other ingredients in a spirit-forward or refreshing cocktail. Each bartender was given nine minutes to present their signature cocktails encapsulating Courvoisier's flavour notes and brand heritage. A panel of judges composed of bar and media industry experts, including Time Out Hong Kong's editor-in-chief Tatum Ancheta, Whisky Magazine HK & Macau's executive editor Eddie Chui, and Tatler Asia Group's regional head of dining Andy Cheng, scored the participants based on technical skill, origina