Hong Kong’s vibrant cocktail scene is experiencing a delectable revolution as savoury libations take centre stage, captivating the palates of discerning drinkers and adventurous imbibers alike. Gone are the days when cocktails were solely sweet or sour affairs; now, innovative mixologists across the city are pushing the boundaries of flavour, crafting umami-packed sips and spice-laced concoctions that challenge traditional notions of what a cocktail can be. From unexpected ingredients like beef fat and truffle to reimagined classics with a savoury twist, these bold creations are redefining the art of mixology in Asia’s World City.
As the head of dining at Tatler, I have enjoyed exploring this exciting trend firsthand, sipping my way through Hong Kong’s most innovative bars and speakeasies. Here, I present my top picks for the best savoury cocktails in Hong Kong—see if these can tantalise your taste buds and expand your cocktail horizons.
See also: Exclusive: Hong Kong to host 24 world-class bartenders for 50 Best Signature Sessions
Argo
Argo Martini (Photo: @argobarhk)
Inspired by the golden age of travel, Argo is a sophisticated bar that transports guests on a journey through their cocktails.
Must-try drink
Argo Martini: The Argo gin has a subtle champagne hue and a complex palate, a special build from the Australian award-winning distillery Never Never Distilling Co for Argo Martini.
Bloody Caesar (Photo: @barbuonasera.hk)
Tucked away on the seventh floor of Mody House in Tsim Sha Tsui, Bar Buonasera is a Japanese-style bar offering an extensive selection of whisky and handcrafted cocktails.
Must-try drink
Bloody Caesar: A Canadian twist on the Bloody Mary, this cocktail features vodka and clamato juice, enhanced with various savoury seasonings for a briny, spicy kick that’s perfect for adventurous palates.
Bloody Beef Maria (Photo: @coahongkong)
Nested in an alley in Central, Coa showcases the versatility of Mexican flavours in its cocktail programme.
Must-try drinks
Bloody Beef Maria: A punchy twist on the classic Bloody Mary, this cocktail features beef-infused spirits, delivering a rich, umami-packed punch that’s both familiar and excitingly novel.
Smashed Cucumber Salad: Inspired by the popular Mexican side dish, this refreshing concoction balances the crispness of cucumber with savoury notes, creating a unique, palate-cleansing experience.
Drunken Chicken (Photo: @dio.cafebar)
Dio is a stylish cafe and bar that seamlessly transitions from day to night, offering innovative cocktails alongside its coffee and food menu.
Must-try drink
Drunken Chicken: This innovative cocktail reimagines the classic Chinese dish, featuring chicken fat-washed spirits and local produce oriental botanical liqueur Magnolia Lab. The savoury, umami-rich blend is garnished with crispy chicken skin, offering a unique fusion of traditional flavours.
Gibson (Photo: thediplomathk)
The Diplomat, a speakeasy concept by mixologist John Nugent, offers reimagined classic cocktails. Its cosy gastropub ambience and eclectic artwork create a whimsical atmosphere for weary travellers.
Must-try drink
Gibson: This tangy variation on the martini is garnished with pickled onion, adding a pleasantly sharp, briny element that elevates the drink beyond those featuring the traditional olive or twist.
Bar Leone (Photo: Bar Leone)
Bar Leone brings a touch of Italian aperitivo culture to Hong Kong with its sophisticated cocktail offerings.
Must-try drink
Leone Martini: A savoury take on the classic martini. Don’t miss out on the smoked olives.
The Original (Photo @penicillin_bar)
Known for its sustainable approach to mixology and innovative cocktail creations, it’s a go-to for locals and visitors to the city alike.
Must-try drink
The Original: A cocktail blending vodka, spiced cherry tomato, salted coconut cordial and citrus hydrosol, garnished with an oyster leaf. Citrusy and herbal, with nutty undertones and a spicy finish.
One Pot Pan: A refreshing highball with pink guava tequila, vitamin B strawberry, charred chives sprig cordial, and clear makgeolli, that lightly sparkling Korean rice wine, garnished with chives. This is a tropical, fizzy delight.
Thai Beef Salad (Photo: thesavoryproject_)
Founded by industry veterans Jay Khan and Ajit Gurung, who are also the brains behind Coa, The Savory Project is Hong Kong’s first cocktail bar dedicated to savoury alcoholic tones.
Must-try drink
Thai Beef Salad: This bold blend captures the essence of its namesake dish, combining pickled salt, peanut, coconut, chilli, kaffir lime, and white rum for a complex savoury sip.
Hong Kong Canto Mary (Photo: @stregisbarhk)
The St Regis Bar offers a sophisticated drinking experience with a nod to local flavours. Its luxurious yet comfortable settings are perfect for raising a toast to special occasions.
Must-try drink
Hong Kong Canto Mary: This local interpretation of the classic Bloody Mary is infused with Chinese ingredients, offering a unique blend of East-meets-West flavours that pay homage to Hong Kong’s culinary heritage.
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