For the ninth consecutive year, bar luminaries from around the globe gathered to celebrate Asia's 50 Best Bars 2024. Held on July 16 at the lavish Rosewood Hong Kong, the annual event was a dazzling showcase of the region's most exceptional drinking establishments.
This year, the spotlight fell on Hong Kong’s very own Bar Leone, which ousted Coa from the top spot after its three-year reign. Designed by the talented Tiffany Kwan of Studio TK, Bar Leone is an exquisite blend of Roman and Hong Kong influences, making it the best bar in Hong Kong.
Situated in Hong Kong's Central, Bar Leone is a tribute to the lively Roman neighbourhood bars, infused with the dynamic energy of Hong Kong. The bar aims to capture the essence of Roman hospitality, offering a comforting escape amid the hustle and bustle of daily life. The design strategy focused on balancing the new with the old, ensuring that the space feels both timeless and authentic.
One of the standout features of Bar Leone is its carefully curated colour palette and material combinations. The goal was to avoid a look that appeared either "too new" or "artificially aged". Instead, the design embraces natural wear and tear, reminiscent of Roman bars that have aged gracefully over decades. The bar's façade, inspired by Roman plastered walls, features warm, aged tones of orange and yellow, invoking a sense of timelessness and authenticity.
Lighting plays a crucial role in shaping the ambiance at Bar Leone. Given that the bar operates mainly from late afternoon onwards, candles and decorative lighting are essential in creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This thoughtful lighting design encourages patrons to linger, unwind and fully immerse themselves in the experience.
The interior walls of Bar Leone are adorned with a mix of vintage Italian pop culture posters and modern international figures. This eclectic mix reflects the diverse backgrounds of everyone involved in the project, from the owners and staff to the branding designers and interior designers. It symbolises a coming together of different cultures and experiences, creating a space where anyone can feel at home.
The vision for Bar Leone was clear from the outset. The aim was to create a space that not only served exceptional drinks but also offered an unforgettable experience. By seamlessly blending Roman and Hong Kong elements, Tiffany Kwan of Studio TK brought this vision to life.
Roman hospitality is all about warmth, comfort, and familiarity. Bar Leone captures this essence through its design and atmosphere. The bar serves as a sanctuary where patrons can escape the daily grind and indulge in a drink with friends or loved ones.
Every element of Bar Leone's design tells a story. From the aged plastered walls to the carefully selected posters, each detail contributes to the overall narrative. The bar's design is a testament to the timeless appeal of Roman neighbourhood bars and their ability to bring people together.
Photo: @hdpphotography