bars · Hong Kong
The best nights in Hong Kong start at these addresses — award-winning cocktail rooms, beloved locals' haunts and views worth ordering a second round for. All rated 4.5 stars or higher.
West Kowloon · $$
On the 118th floor of the ICC, this is routinely called the highest bar in the world, with a terrace open to the actual sky. The futuristic honeycomb interior by Wonderwall is as dramatic as the view over Victoria Harbour.
Insider tip: Arrive right at opening to claim a terrace seat before the sunset crowd, and note the smart-casual dress code.
Central · $$
Antonio Lai's multisensory cocktail lab has been a fixture on Asia's 50 Best Bars list for over a decade. The Earl Grey Caviar Martini, topped with a cloud of tea-scented air, is the drink that made it famous.
Insider tip: Go on a weeknight before 8pm to sit at the bar and watch the rotary evaporator in action.
Central · $$
Jay Khan's agave temple was crowned the best bar in Asia three years running for its encyclopedic mezcal and tequila list. The La Paloma de Oaxaca, with grapefruit soda and mezcal, converts even committed whisky drinkers.
Insider tip: No reservations are taken, so arrive before 7pm or put your name down and wait at a nearby bar.
SoHo · $$
Lorenzo Antinori's Roman-style neighborhood bar shot to number one in Asia's 50 Best Bars within a year of opening. Its 'cocktail popolari' ethos means perfect olive-oil-washed martinis and mortadella sandwiches instead of theatrics.
Insider tip: It is walk-in only and packed by 8pm; weekday early evenings are your best shot at a seat.
Tsim Sha Tsui · $$
Philippe Starck designed every inch of this 28th-floor aerie atop The Peninsula, down to the famous gents' urinals facing the skyline. The harbour panorama across Hong Kong Island is among the best you can get with a martini in hand.
Insider tip: Skip the queue for window tables by sitting at the central bar; the view works from almost anywhere.
Central · $$
The Mandarin Oriental's wood-panelled institution has poured ice-cold draught beer into engraved silver tankards since 1963. It has been the unofficial deal-closing room for Central's bankers for three generations.
Insider tip: Order the house draught in the silver mug and go after 6pm on a weekday to catch the live jazz trio.
October–December & March–April
Hong Kong Dollar (HKD)
Cantonese, English
How this list is made: we only feature places rated 4.5 stars or higher with 1,000+ reviews from real travelers. Ratings and review counts are approximate and move over time — always check current numbers before booking. Photos are sourced from Wikimedia Commons under free licenses (credits in each gallery).
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Four days is ideal: two for Hong Kong Island and Kowloon highlights, one for Lantau's Big Buddha and Tai O, and one for markets, museums or a Macau side trip. A long layover of even 24 hours still covers the Peak, Star Ferry and a dim sum meal.