Curated Travel Guides to Unexpected Places

Pete’s Place

On High Street, this Sai Ying Pun staple has quietly perfected the neighbourhood bar and restaurant vibe without ever trying to be more than that. It’s the kind of spot that feels instantly familiar – where the comfort food hits right, the drinks are dangerously well-priced (we’re talking HK$62 to HK$80 for cocktails), and the […]

Blotto

Kennedy Town needed a spot like this — a neighbourhood hangout that feels both fresh and familiar, without trying too hard at either. This compact space has nailed that sweet spot between dive bar charm and new-school cool, serving up hot dogs alongside well-crafted cocktails. While ‘hipster’ might be in the DNA, Blotto skips the […]

Fini’s

Since 2011, Fini’s has been doing its thing without the usual Hong Kong cocktail bar pretence, creating a vibe that feels more Lower East Side than Elgin Street. But don’t let the Italian-American restaurant facade fool you – their Soho branch has quietly become one of Hong Kong’s smartest plays for quality drinks without the […]

The Optimist

Near the stylish Star Street precinct – far from Wan Chai’s sleazy main strip – this sophisticated Spanish restaurant has evolved into one of the area’s most compelling cocktail destinations. The sprawling space channels laid-back Madrid vibes, with a ground-floor bar that’s become a legitimate hangout in its own right. While the kitchen’s reputation for […]

Tai Lung Fung

Before the ‘Wong Kar-wai aesthetic’ became a global bar trend, this understated gem was quietly channelling vintage Hong Kong vibes in the most authentic way possible. On a peaceful side street near the historic Blue House, Tai Lung Fung captures the essence of 1960s Hong Kong without laying it on thick: think subtle nostalgic touches […]