Address: 65 Peel Street, Central
Website: kinsman.hk
COA
You don’t top Asia’s 50 Best Bars list for three years running without knowing a thing or two about great drinks. Inspired by the Mexican drinking dens frequented by founder Jay Khan during his travels, COA is a celebration of all things agave – with a 41-page agave spirit-dedicated menu that delves deeper into varieties, terroirs and producers. Tequila and mezcal get their chance to shine on the tightly curated cocktail list, which spotlights Mexican flavours and seasonal ingredients, with new concoctions debuting weekly. Cosy and intimate, this is a temple of knowledge that wears its expertise lightly.
Address: Shop A, LG/F, Wah Shin House, 6-10 Shin Hing Street, Central
Website: coa.com.hk
DarkSide
While plenty of bars Kowloon-side offer ringside seats to Hong Kong’s spectacular harbour views, not many do so with the elan of DarkSide. This refined cocktail parlour in the uber-glam Rosewood Hong Kong hotel delivers innovative cocktails inspired by Kowloon’s heritage, alongside an extensive library of dark spirits like rum, calvados and whiskey – including an exclusive house-crafted cognac blend. It feels only right that this sophisticated selection comes soundtracked by sultry live jazz into the midnight hours – plus those all-important glittering vistas really do their best work at night.
Address: 2/F, Rosewood Hong Kong, Victoria Dockside, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Website: rosewoodhotels.com
The Green Door
Happening upon a hidden door, feeling like you’re in on a particularly dishy secret – there’s just something special about a speakeasy and The Green Door is one of Hong Kong’s best. Nestled amid the stalls of Graham Street wet market, this underground hideaway is inspired by Alice in Wonderland, with sweeping curved arches and cushy leather banquettes. The drinks offer playful takes on classics while the all-American apple pie, served with lashing of golden caramel, has its own fan club.