The Aubrey

The Mandarin Oriental's top-floor bar has built itself into a mecca for a growing base of shochu and awamori fans, all packaged within svelte surroundings under the watchful eye of the winner of last year’s Bartender of the Year award, Devender Sehgal. 

Bar Leone

Opened this year by ex-Argo mixologist Lorenzo Antinori, this watering hole has that magic touch that immediately whisks drinkers away to Rome, with no shortage of frozen cappuccinos, Negronis, and photos of the Pope along the way.

15 Bridges Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong

COA

Requiring no introduction, COA's delicious cocktails that revolve around mezcal and tequila have become a bonafide tourist attraction, and the queue to get in has already become an indispensable part of the experience.

Darkside

Featuring not one but two menus that pay homage to classic cocktails as well as innovating using Hong Kong-themed recipes, this beautiful bar is the rare gem worth a Star Ferry ride across the harbour.

Mostly Harmless

At this discreet, white-tiled bar, you never know what you’re going to get thanks to a menu that changes every few days, using the freshest, most in-season produce from local farms in Hong Kong. Accomplished bartender Ezra Star is the mind behind the recipes, but you won't find her waxing on about the intricate processes that go into each drink—instead, the spotlight is on the starring fruits and vegetables harvested from the city's backyard.

Penicillin

Now in its third year, Penicillin is more confident than ever in its brand of sustainable mixology, having fashioned itself into a lodestar for guilt-free, upcycled cocktails in Asia. It's a klaxon call for the climate emergency packaged as a sleek cocktail programme, with each cocktail named after a book on global environmental flashpoints.

Quinary

Reaching a decade-long milestone in Hong Kong's ruthless F&B business is no easy feat, yet Quinary does it with aplomb. Founder-mixologist Antonio Lai is still very much involved in ideating new and wacky libations that push the envelope of molecular mixology, making this stalwart a must-visit on the local bar circuit.

The Savory Project

Helmed by one of the youngest founders in the business, Ajit Gurung, alongside Jay Khan of COA, this intimate bar is defining the category of savoury cocktails in innovative fashion, along with non-alcoholic cocktails that match their spirited counterparts in concept and execution.

4 Staunton Street, Central, Hong Kong; thesavoryproject.com

001

Known as Hong Kong’s first speakeasy, 001 vacated its underground sanctuary last year, but after a short hiatus it’s having drinkers get completely lost once again—this time in the alleys of Tai Kwun—in search of a good cocktail.

Best Interior Design: Artifact, designed by NCDA

A venue that makes the best visual impact and an unforgettable first impression.

This bar feels like you are stepping into the future. It’s where sculpted booths seemingly float from the ceiling as if walking onto a spaceship, creating an extraordinary space to sip on creative cocktails.

Read more: Secrets of success with designer and architect Nelson Chow

Best Service: Argo

A bar where the staff impress with their depth of knowledge, attentiveness, and professionalism.

Nestled within one of Hong Kong's most luxurious hotels, you can expect swift and professional service at Argo. But it’s not all seriousness, as you’ll be met with welcoming smiles, approachable hospitality, and one or two gummy bears thrown in.

Initiative of the Year: Diageo World Class

A venue or brand that has demonstrated quick thinking and creativity in response to the problems that face the industry and wider society today.

This distinctive event has evolved into a globally respected and esteemed bartender competition, mirroring our ethos at Tatler in cherishing and elevating cocktail culture and its community. It's a celebration of excellence and innovation in the world of mixology, uniting the best in the business.

Impact Award: COA

In recognition of those who have made an impact on the way we perceive the bar industry as a force for good.

With its incredible team, COA is dedicated to spreading the word about the wonders of agave but it also makes a significant difference through Mezcal Mission, an initiative that combines a passion for unique spirits with a heartfelt commitment to charity and positive action.

Don't miss: Jay Khan is a man on a mission

Best Local Drinks Producer: Young Master

A brewer or distiller based in Hong Kong that successfully translates the essence of the city into delicious products that can be enjoyed by everyone.

A trailblazer in the brewing scene since 2013, Young Master is known, and loved, for their locally inspired craft beers. Having mastered the art of brewing, they have also collaborated with various local brands, showcasing innovation in making unique beverages.

Best Food Programme: Bar Leone

A bar that spares no effort with its food menu, as judged by a combination of creativity, execution, variety, flavour, and pairing potential.

At this tribute to the imbibing culture of Rome, the food is just as impressive as the cocktails in drawing the crowds. Offering delights such as a Roman-stuffed pizza and smoked olives–which in our opinion deserves its very own accolade–you’ll not need, nor want, to leave this bar for dinner.

Best Drinks Programme: The Savory Project

A bar that best showcases a combination of creativity, execution, aesthetic, and flavour in their drinks menu.

Pioneering a cocktail menu that is rich in earthy and umami flavours, The Savory Project has responded to a growing desire for less sugary options. With unique ingredients and a selection of great-tasting non-alcoholic options, this bar is setting a new standard in mixology.

Rising Star: Morris Chang, Penicillin

An emerging talent with great potential, who has made a serious impression with their work in the industry.

This young Taiwanese bartender came to Hong Kong only a couple of years ago and has shown great creativity in mixology since. Most recently, Chang was recognised at the Flor de Caña’s Sustainable Cocktail Challenge in Hong Kong & Macau.

Best New Bar: Bar Leone

The best new drinking spot that opened in the past 18 months

Having quickly become a favourite for many, this year's winner has wowed us with their creative cocktails, delightful bites, and superbly friendly service. Stepping into Bar Leone is like a mini-getaway to Rome, blending the very essence of great drinks and bites with the charm of Italian hospitality.

Bartender of the Year: Jay Khan, COA

A bartender who has made a significant impact on the drinks scene in the past year with their vision or initiatives outside of the bar. 

A maestro behind the bar and a visionary in the drinks industry, Jay Khan has led COA to the top of the Asian drinks scene, but he's also turned it into a beacon of community and education. His dedication extends beyond the bar with impactful initiatives, and his latest venture, The Savory Project, offers a savoury twist to the cocktail game. And let's not forget, amidst all this, Khan still find time to maintain an impressive fitness regime–truly a master of balancing the art of mixology with personal well-being.

Sponsors

Supporting organisation
Hong Kong Tourism Board

Venue partner
BaseHall

Beverage partners
Belvedere Vodka, Don Julio, Glenmorangie, Hennessy, Johnnie Walker, Volcan, Chivas Regal, The Macallan, Marriott Bonvoy, Monkey 47, Nespresso, N.I.P., Zuma