New HK cocktails inspired by bootleg DVDs

Ryan Nightingale from hip Wan Chai joint, The Back Bar has created an electric range of cocktails that tip their hat to Hong Kong’s other thriving market, the film industry.

Now it’s getting (ever so slightly) cooler, Hong Kongers love nothing better than an excuse to huddle at home, with blankets at the ready for a night of marathon movie-watching.

For those wishing to boast about their cocktails and movie knowledge, Ryan Nightingale’s new range is inspired by the classics from the 1980s to the present day… a glass of Ron Burgundy, anyone?

Ron Burgundy

Become the local television celebrity while sipping on a blend of rum, Burgundy syrup and perfume bitters, served in a perfume bottle with a “sex panther” label. Have more than one and you may find yourself saying indiscriminately to anyone who will listen, “I’m very important. I have many leather-bound books and my apartment smells of rich mahogany.”

Cocchi Horror Picture Sloe

Discover the “secret to life itself” with this aromatic blend of Cocchi Amaro, sloe gin, Fino and orange bitters, served in a bottle and garnished with a garter around the glass.

What’s Eating Gimlet Grape?

Fall in love with Becky this Sherry and grape cordial – “a dramatic yet romantic” cocktail that may move you to tears (in a good way).

Crank it to TEN

Step back to the 1980s with Ryan’s ode to “Say Anything” and “Spinal Tap”. A blend of Tanqueray No. Ten, Bianco Vermouth, grapefruit ice and soda, this offering is served on a 45 rpm vinyl record.

Pineapple Espresso

James Franco and Seth Rogan would be proud to drink this blend of bee pollen-infused Ocho Blanco, coffee liqueur, espresso and pineapple-infused agave served in a bubbler glass.

There’s Something About Sherry

A cocktail laced with Amontillado, Amaretto, rum, lemon and bitters served in a hair gel tub. Just don’t expect it to “tame your mane.”

Sake Kid

Practice “Cobra Kai” with this mix of Funaguchi Sake, Beefeater, lemon, pineapple-yuzi cordial and Matcha tea powder, served in a rather cool sake tin.