Al fresco HK bars to try this fall

La Rambla by Catalunya

Nestled in the upper levels of IFC in Central, Spanish restaurant La Rambla by Catalunya has re-opened its newly renovated 4,200 sq. ft. outdoor terrace. Situated against sweeping views of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong’s iconic cityscape, it is one of the hottest social hubs for sunset cocktails and light bites within a relaxed and vibrant atmosphere.

During happy hour from 3pm till 8pm on the terrace, guests can enjoy special prices on drinks. Cocktail fanatics should be enticed by the menu of all-new cocktails. The delectable libations include La Centrale, a tart and floral Tequila-driven cocktail topped off with ginger beer; or a more classic option of Lion’s Tail, consisting of allspice, bourbon and citrus.

The happy hour session also includes a complimentary serving of Montaditos sandwiches with five topping spreads. Big eater might as well wish to consider the light bites menu, featuring snacks like 5J 100% Bellota Jamon Iberico and Wagyu Beef Brochetas, for a late-afternoon fix.

Address: 3071-73 level 3, ifc mall, Central, Hong Kong

ZEST by Konishi

Perched high above Central Hong Kong, ZEST by Konishi, is the latest project by acclaimed Japanese chef Mitsuru Konishi.

The Lounge’s cocktail experience is helmed by Italian bar manager Jonny Amir, who has created a series of signature cocktails, made with hand-crafted spirits and ingredients sourced from destinations influenced by the ancient maritime trade routes, including the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and South America.

One of the most popular and ‘Instagrammable’ cocktails, Quinine, is inspired by the original gin & tonic created by the British military. Featuring Spanish Gin Tonica, white peach liqueur, white port and fresh honey, the drink is served over hibiscus tea ice to combine the velvet fruitiness.

Amir understands the growing demand for fine spirits in the market. The lounge has installed an eight-bottle temperature-controlled whisky dispenser from Italy with a curated selection of old aged statement whiskies. Right now on the list, there are rare bottles like Caol Ila 35 and Balvenie 30.

Address: 29/F, 18 On Lan Street, Central, Hong Kong

Rest Coffee Gin

The completion of West Kowloon Cultural District’s construction is halfway there, yet the spectacular waterfront promenade has become a popular chilling spot for city dwellers to take a break from the city.

Overlooking the mesmerising panoramic harbour view, Rest Coffee Gin is a speciality coffee shop by day and artesian cocktail bar by night. The bar is managed by Wallace Lau, a celebrated local bartender who has previously worked in famous local Japanese bars like Bar De Luxe and Bar Butler.

The drinks menu showcases signatures including G&Ts crafted from hand-picked fine gins and tea-based cocktails made with tea leaf-infused spirits. For example, ‘Symposium’ is a refreshing drink that features single tea-infused gin, lemon, and soda; ‘Before Sunset’ celebrates the sweet elegance of tea with white tip oolong-infused rum, lime and local honey of various flowers.

Address: Shop GF-04 Hong Kong West Kowloon Cultural District