Published: August 06, 2026

Don't Miss 852 Mahjong Social's Monthly Mahjong Nights at BaseHall

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Courtesy of 852 Mahjong Social

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
August 06, 2026

852 Mahjong Social will host their August edition of their monthly "Mahjong Nights" at BaseHall 02 on Aug. 12, 2026, from 7 to 10 PM.

Tickets cost HK$250 per person, which includes a HK$100 BaseHall food voucher. You can grab tickets in the club's Instagram bio.

The event, set in BaseHall's BH02 Event Space, is the latest installment of the club's monthly mixer. Organizers said they'll lay out 15 to 20 tables, spanning a range of styles and skill levels, then match guests to seats based on pace and personality.

Beginners are 100% welcome, but complete novices should brush up first. Players need a working knowledge of gameplay, so rounds stay fair for everyone at the table. For guests who already know the basics and want to sharpen them, though, they say the club is one of the fastest ways to level up.

Beyond the mahjong, the three-hour event includes mini table games sprinkled throughout the night, with a sponsor-backed prize for whoever wins. There's strictly no gambling involved. Organizers have said the games are for fun only.

"We're really here for strengthening the connection, honoring the culture and building the community," the founders told The Beat Asia.

852 Mahjong Social event at Basehall 02 — Courtesy of 852 Mahjong Social

The event taps into a familiar problem for younger players: plenty of people want to play mahjong but don't always have a group to call on to play, and even fewer want to deal with hosting. It's also quite intimidating for newcomers to join the local mahjong scene where games move faster than beginners can follow. Their club aims to be the complete opposite.

"Some of our guests tell us that the locals are a little bit too fast and scary and intimidating, and we are very inclusive at our club," the founders told The Beat Asia. "There's absolutely no gambling, and we're just here to have some fun, meet people and play mahjong."

To book your seat and learn about more of their upcoming events, follow 852 Mahjong Social on Instagram.

Get the latest curated content with The Beat Asia's newsletters. Sign up now for a weekly dose of the best stories, events, and deals delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss out! Click here to subscribe.

View Full Article

Hong Kong/ Delish/ Happenings

Published: August 06, 2026

Preparation is Everything: Antoine Semenyo x Ahmad Tea Deliver Masterclass

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Ahmad Tea

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
August 06, 2026

What does it take to create the perfect cup of tea and perform at the highest level of football? Ahmad Tea explored that connection firsthand with Manchester City and Ghana international forward Antoine Semenyo at an exclusive tea tasting masterclass in Hong Kong.

Held a day after Semenyo's Hong Kong Football Festival match against Inter Milan, the event formed part of Ahmad Tea's global "Preparation is Everything" campaign, which highlights the dedication, consistency, and attention to detail that drive both elite athletes and master tea blenders.

The gathering brought together media and partners for an afternoon that celebrated the work that happens behind the scenes long before a match kicks off or a cup of tea is poured.

Manchester City star football player Antoine Semenyo and Senior Tea Taster Dominic Marriott at Ahmad Tea event in Hong Kong — Courtesy of Ahmad Tea

Manchester City star football player Antoine Semenyo at Ahmad Tea event in Hong Kong — Courtesy of Ahmad Tea

Semenyo shared insights into his pre-season training, mental preparation, and personal routines ahead of the new football season, giving guests a glimpse into the discipline required to compete at the top level.

"Preparation is one of the most important parts of my career. What people see on matchday is only a small part of the work. It all comes from the routines, discipline, and mindset developed long before kick-off. I am working hard during pre-season on those processes to develop and improve everyday habits to be ready for a big season ahead," shared Semenyo.

Manchester City star football player Antoine Semenyo Ahmad Tea Hong Kong — Instagram/ Ahmad Tea Hong Kong

Founded in Hampshire, England, Ahmad Tea is an award-winning family-owned tea company with four generations of expertise behind its blends. Today, its teas are enjoyed in more than 90 countries worldwide, with a commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and supporting tea-growing communities through sustainability and social impact initiatives.

To learn more about Ahmad Tea and their range of blends, visit their website or follow them on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.

Looking for the perfect place to gather, celebrate, or unwind? Discover and book standout venues across Asia with SPACES by The Beat Asia. Find your space today! Click here to explore SPACES.

View Full Article

Hong Kong/ Delish/ Happenings

Published: August 06, 2026

Draft Land x nodi Bring Coffee by Day, Cocktails by Night in New TST Venue

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Draft Land

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
August 06, 2026

Coffee in the morning, cocktails at night. That's the concept behind the new shared venue of Draft Land and nodi, which officially opened its doors in Tsim Sha Tsui on Aug. 3, 2026.

The new venue marks a fresh chapter for the Taipei-born cocktail bar founded by Taiwanese mixologist Angus Zou and Hong Kong bar veteran Antonio Lai.

The Tsim Sha Tsui space features a warmer and softer interior with cozy corners and a semi-outdoor area designed for lingering over a drink.

Draft Land x nodi outdoor area — Instagram/Draft Land

In a first for both brands, specialty coffee shop nodi operates the venue from 8 AM to 5 PM, serving their signature coffee and baked treats. When evening arrives, Draft Land takes over with their signature cocktails on tap, alongside two Tsim Sha Tsui-exclusive coffee cocktails: Really Really Dark & Stormy and Caferoni, both made with nodi's house blend coffee.

Coffee lovers can also try the venue-exclusive Elderflower Coffee Soda, a refreshing mix of espresso, elderflower syrup, and sparkling soda inspired by Antonio Lai's favorite flavor profile.

limited-edition double-walled collaboration glass and merch wall — Instagram/Draft Land

To celebrate the partnership, guests can pick up a limited-edition double-walled collaboration glass for HK$88, or HK$68 with any coffee purchase, while browsing a merch wall stocked with Draft Land and nodi favorites.

For more information, visit Draft Land's website and nodi's website and follow @draftlandhk and @nodicoffee on Instagram for updates.

Location: Draft Land x nodi, Shop G5-G6, 8 Minden Ave, Tsim Sha Tsui

Get the latest curated content with The Beat Asia's newsletters. Sign up now for a weekly dose of the best stories, events, and deals delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss out! Click here to subscribe.

View Full Article

Hong Kong/ Delish/ Happenings

Published: August 06, 2026

Matchali Reopens Moon Street Flagship with New Drinks Plus Mooncake Collab

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Matchali

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
August 06, 2026

Hong Kong matcha fans now have a reason to make their way back to Moon Street. Four years after opening its flagship café in Wan Chai, Matchali has officially reopened its refreshed home, welcoming customers back to a brighter and more comfortable space while keeping the cozy atmosphere that made it a neighborhood favorite.

The renovation brings subtle but thoughtful upgrades throughout the café, from full-height mirrors and soft lighting to redesigned outdoor seating and textured plaster walls. The updated interiors were designed by local studio Brash Atelier, creating a space that feels familiar while giving regulars a fresh place to enjoy their daily matcha ritual.

To celebrate the reopening, Matchali is introducing two limited-time drinks. The Matcha Maple Cream (HK$63), available exclusively at Moon Street, combines ceremonial-grade matcha with single-origin maple syrup from Canada's Goubau Farm and a sea salt-infused cream topping. The new Vanilla Matcha Latte (HK$55 for hot, and HK$60 for iced) blends house-made vanilla syrup and pure vanilla bean paste with Matchali's signature matcha for a comforting twist on the classic favorite.

Matchali two limited-time drinks — Courtesy of Matchali

The reopening also coincides with a special Mid-Autumn collaboration with YYY House of Cakes. The limited-edition Matcha Lava Mooncakes are sold in sets of four for HK$380, with pre-orders available until Aug. 15, 2026, and a 10% early bird discount for advance reservations.

Matchali Matcha Lava Mooncakes — Courtesy of Matchali

Founded by cousins Cara and Laura Li, Matchali is known for its hand-whisked, ceremonial-grade matcha sourced directly from Uji, Kyoto. The brand focuses on made-to-order drinks crafted with high-quality ingredients, plant-based options, and no refined sugars.

To learn more, visit their website and follow them on Instagram at @matchali_hk.

Location: Matchali, G/F, 5 Moon Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

Get the latest curated content with The Beat Asia's newsletters. Sign up now for a weekly dose of the best stories, events, and deals delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss out! Click here to subscribe.

View Full Article

Hong Kong/ Delish/ Happenings

Published: July 31, 2026

r é n Teams Up with Té Bo, Aqua for New Charity Dinner Series

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Sebastian Lorenzi/Instagram | Romeo Morelli/Instagram

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
July 31, 2026

A new charity dinner series is bringing some of the city's top chefs together for a good cause.

r é n, the local social enterprise dedicated to supporting Hong Kong's underprivileged youth, has launched the r é n x EAST Dining Management (EDM) Guest Chef Dinner Series, a rotating collaboration concept featuring chefs from across the group's restaurant portfolio.

The series kicks off on Aug. 12, 2026 at Té Bo x Aqua, where Chefs Sebastian Lorenzi of Té Bo and Romeo Morelli of Aqua are joining forces for a one-night-only menu inspired by the flavors of an Italian summer.

Their six-course tasting menu runs HK$1,288 per person (plus a 10% service charge), and moves from an Apricot Tartlette with smoked stracciatella and a Hokkaido Sweetcorn Fritter, through Hamachi Tartare with caviar, Handmade Potato Gnocchi with Sicilian red prawn, and Pan-Fried Sea Bass with saffron and chorizo, before landing on Red Wine-Braised Short Ribs and closing with a Yellow Peach and Strawberry Dessert topped with mascarpone chantilly and crispy meringue.

Beyond the food, the dinner promotes a bigger cause. For every seating in the series, Té Bo will donate proceeds to the r é n Community Foundation, funneling funds directly into the organization's youth programs. Joining Lorenzi and Morelli on the floor that night is Ah Hei, one of r é n's beneficiaries, who has spent more than a year working at South Lane in Two Taikoo Place — showcasing the foundation's model of hands-on mentorship.

r é n x EDM Guest Chef Dinner Series: Té Bo x Aqua menu — Photo from Instagram/ ren hk

Founded in 2023 by Jo Soo-Tang, r é n — a word that roughly translates to "humanity" and "to be kind" — connects disadvantaged young people in Hong Kong with paid work placements in high-end kitchens and beyond, giving them real-world experience and, ideally, getting their foot in the door to build their own hospitality career. The organization also sells food and lifestyle products, from candles to pantry staples, with revenue fueling their programs.

Reservations for the Lorenzi x Morelli dinner are open via Té Bo's website.

For more information and updates, follow Té Bo, Aqua, and r é n on Instagram. Visit r é n's website to learn more about the organization.

r é n x EDM Guest Chef Dinner Series: Té Bo x Aqua

Location: Té Bo, 2/F, Two Taikoo Place, 979 King's Rd., Quarry Bay

Date: Aug. 12, 2026

Price: HK$1,288 per person (plus 10% service charge)

Get the latest curated content with The Beat Asia's newsletters. Sign up now for a weekly dose of the best stories, events, and deals delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss out! Click here to subscribe.

View Full Article

Hong Kong/ Delish/ Happenings

Published: July 31, 2026

'Ice Cream Jam' Brings Local Flavors and Summer Fun to Lee Gardens

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Instagram/ Tai On Coffee & Tea Shop

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
July 31, 2026

Summer in Hong Kong is already synonymous with ice cream, but Lee Gardens is adding a distinctly local twist with its new “Ice Cream Jam.” Running from July 22 to Aug. 9, 2026, at 1/F Atrium of Hysan Place, this limited-time pop-up transforms classic Hong Kong flavors into inventive frozen treats.

Teaming up with TEEMTONEfai and beloved heritage brands Kung Lee Herbal Tea Shop, Yiu Fung Store, and Tai On Coffee & Tea Shop, the pop-up serves nine exclusive flavors inspired by familiar local favorites.

Expect scoops such as Sugar Cane Juice, Sour Plum Soup, Wampee Sorbet, Salty Lemon & Lychee Sorbet, Fei Zai Shui (Lychee Black Tea Cola), and Egg Tart, with each reimagining a well-known Hong Kong taste in ice cream form.

Ice Cream Mystery Boxes for HK-Themed Pop-Up 'Ice Cream Jam' at Hysan Place — Photo by Website/ Lee Gardens

egg tarts and ice cream from Tai On Coffee & Tea Shop for HK-Themed Pop-Up 'Ice Cream Jam' at Hysan Place — Instagram/ Tai On Coffee & Tea Shop

For adventurous foodies, the pop-up's Ice Cream Mystery Boxes delve even deeper into local nostalgia. Some of the hidden flavors include Red, White & Blue, a tribute to local heritage; Bamboo Steamer, inspired by classic yum cha culture; and the boldly unconventional Medicinal Oil.

Beyond the ice cream counter, Lee Gardens is keeping the summer vibes going with its Chill Out with Ice Cream: Summer Party, featuring live performances featuring local artists like PetPetShawn, JB, and Tr33, ice cream-and-cocktail pairings, and even a 128-player Beyblade Tournament at 4/F Urban Park on Aug. 1 and 16, 2026.

Visitors can also hop on the seasonal trail with the Lee Gardens Ice Cream Bike, offering free scoops and dining rewards for shoppers through the Lee Gardens App.

Lee Gardens Area Ice Cream Bike — Photo by Website/ Lee Gardens

HK-Themed Pop-Up 'Ice Cream Jam' at Hysan Place — Photo by Website/ Lee Gardens

Rounding out the festivities is the Lee Gardens Ice Cream Bar at 2/F Lee Garden Two, where visitors can try a limited-edition Wax Apple Ice Pop created with traditional confectionery expert Yan Chim Kee, alongside new flavors from Singapore's The Ice Cream & Cookie Co., until Aug. 16, 2026.

For more information about Lee Gardens and Hysan Place, visit their official website. You can also follow them on Instagram and Facebook for the latest announcements, exclusive promotions, and upcoming events throughout the season.

Location: Hysan Place, 500 Hennessy Rd, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong

Get the latest curated content with The Beat Asia's newsletters. Sign up now for a weekly dose of the best stories, events, and deals delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss out! Click here to subscribe.

View Full Article

Hong Kong/ Delish/ Happenings

Published: July 30, 2026

Miffy Takes Over Ramen Iroha HK with a Cute Themed Menu & Merchandise

by: The Beat Asia

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
July 30, 2026

Hong Kong's cutest ramen collaboration of the year has landed!

Following popular team-ups with Mofusand and Sanrio's Sumikko Gurashi and Pochacco in 2025, Ramen Iroha HK has unveiled its latest themed dining experience with none other than Miffy, the beloved bunny created by Dutch illustrator Dick Bruna.

Running from July 1 to Oct. 31, 2026, the limited-time collaboration transforms the award-winning ramen restaurant into a colorful Miffy wonderland. The space is dressed in the character's signature orange, blue, and white palette, with Miffy appearing throughout the storefront, walls, tables, paper cups, and even chopstick wrappers. There are also themed photo spots, including cute Miffy desk lamps, making it a fun stop for families, foodies, and fans looking to fill their camera rolls.

The menu, of course, is just as eye-catching as the décor. Diners looking to fill their tummies can tuck into the rich Toyama Black Soy Sauce Ramen, the creamy Special Milk Flavor Ramen, the fulfilling White Curry Noodles, and the refreshing Matcha Cold Noodles.

Miffy x Ramen Iroha HK menu — Photo by Instagram/Ramen Iroha HK

The snack selection includes a Special Takoyaki, while dessert lovers can end their meal with a Sawdust Pudding. To complete the experience, themed drinks such as Lychee Soda, Jasmine Milk Tea, and Matcha Latte are served in exclusive Miffy cups.

Guests can also bring home exclusive merchandise, including a foldable reusable bag (HK$78) and a collectible ramen bowl (HK$150). A Miffy phone stand is also available for an additional HK$10 with any purchase, while stocks last.

This adorable collaboration is available on a walk-in basis only. For more information, contact Ramen Iroha HK via WhatsApp at 5646 4503 or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.

Location: Ramen Iroha HK, G/F, 7 Haven Street, Causeway Bay

Get the latest curated content with The Beat Asia's newsletters. Sign up now for a weekly dose of the best stories, events, and deals delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss out! Click here to subscribe.

View Full Article

Hong Kong/ Delish/ Happenings

Published: July 30, 2026

HIGHERTHAN by Young Master Brings Back Yogurt Vodka Highballs This Summer

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Instagram/ HIGHERTHAN by Young Master

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
July 30, 2026

Looking for a drink that's sweet, fizzy, and a little different this summer? HIGHERTHAN by Young Master is bringing back their cult-favorite Yogurt Vodka Highball series this season, and this year comes with four fruity and creamy flavors perfect for Hong Kong's hottest days.

Leading the lineup are the new Peach Yogurt Vodka Highball and Grape Yogurt Vodka Highball, which are now available exclusively at selected Circle K stores.

The Peach Yogurt Vodka Highball combines juicy ripe peach with tangy yogurt and a crisp vodka soda finish to create a smooth sip that's equal parts indulgent and refreshing. Meanwhile, the Grape Yogurt Vodka Highball blends bold grape flavors with silky yogurt and sparkling vodka fizz for a bright, juicy kick.

Over at 7-Eleven, HIGHERTHAN is introducing two limited-time summer flavors that are equally tempting.

The Mango Yogurt Vodka Highball delivers tropical mango sweetness balanced by creamy yogurt notes and bubbly vodka soda, while the Matcha Yogurt Vodka Highball pairs the earthy aroma and gentle bitterness of matcha with a smooth yogurt texture and refreshing fizz.

Mango Yogurt Vodka Highball and Matcha Yogurt Vodka Highball — Photo by Instagram/HIGHERTHAN by Young Master

Known for their bold, Asian-inspired ready-to-drink highballs, HIGHERTHAN continues to experiment with unexpected flavor combinations that feel playful, refreshing, and made for sharing with friends. Whether you're grabbing a can for a beach day, a picnic, or a casual night in, these yogurt-infused highballs are an easy way to cool off this season!

For updates on HIGHERTHAN's latest releases, follow them on Instagram and visit their official website. For inquiries, contact +852 2783 8907 or info@youngmasterales.com.

Get the latest curated content with The Beat Asia's newsletters. Sign up now for a weekly dose of the best stories, events, and deals delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss out! Click here to subscribe.

View Full Article

Hong Kong/ Delish/ People

Published: July 24, 2026

All Mixed Up: Mius Founder Shelley Tai on Being a Bartenders' Bartender

by: The Beat Asia

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
July 24, 2026

Asia's got a knack for knowing the best ways to unwind, and we're diving into that vibe with "All Mixed Up." You'll find us in cool bars, drink in hand, escaping the tropical heat and spicing up our nights. With this series, we're exploring Asia's hottest bar scenes, chatting with the wizards behind the concepts and drinks — mixologists, bartenders, brewers, and more. Whether you're a cocktail whiz or just curious about the craft, we're serving up the stories behind the faces that fuel our nights out. So grab a drink and relax as we uncover the secrets behind our favorite bars. Trust us, these stories are best served chilled!

Quitting was never an option for Shelley Tai.

Resilience was built into her the moment she left home at 16 and became completely independent by 18. By the time she was 20, Shelley started her bartending career — and never looked back.

"Being independent at a young age taught me to take responsibility for my own life. It shaped almost everything. There was no one else to rely on," Shelley shares. "So whenever I face challenges in my career — whether it was starting over as a barback, moving countries, or opening my own bar — I never really thought about quitting."

It's that determination that's led to her illustrious career over the last 16 years. Shelley was the first female Hong Kong bartender to join the global finals of the Diageo World Class cocktail competition when she won in the Hong Kong and Macau nationals.

This 2026, her peers crowned her the Altos Bartenders' Bartender of the Year at Asia's 50 Best Bars — the only recognition in the awarding body that's decided by fellow bartenders.

It's an award she's thoroughly earned. When Shelley first became a bartender, it was a part-time job to make ends meet. It didn't take long for her to decide this was something she could do full-time. So she worked for FINDS, then Drop, before joining Quinary — starting over as a barback and learning it all again from scratch.

She stayed with Quinary before moving to Singapore to work with the Nutmeg Collective. As Operations Director there, she helped manage Nutmeg & Clove, which placed at No. 50 in the World's 50 Best Bars 2025 (No. 24 in Asia's 50 Best Bars 2025).

After five years in Singapore, Shelley moved back to Hong Kong in 2025 and opened Mius in Gough Street.

A neighborhood cocktail bar, it's grounded in a straightforward philosophy: "simple things, done right." One example would be their Highball, which blends frozen whisky and chilled Japanese soda. No ice. Crisp and clean — zero frills.

Mius bar signage for All Mixed Up image with Mius Founder Shelley Tai — Instagram/ Mius

In this All Mixed Up exclusive, The Beat Asia catches up with Mius Founder Shelley Tai to talk about introversion as a strength, managing a bar versus being a bartender, and her Altos Bartenders' Bartender of the Year Award.

Congratulations on the Altos Bartenders' Bartender Award 2026. Does peer recognition land differently than a competition title?

Very much. This award comes from people whom I have met and respected for many years, and that makes it incredibly meaningful.

It also reminds me that I didn't get here alone. I have had so many mentors, colleagues, and friends who have shaped the bartender I am today, so I'm very grateful.

cocktail at Mius bar by Shelley Tai for All Mixed Up exclusive interview with The Beat Asia — Courtesy of Mius

Is there a difference between serving a fellow bartender versus a regular guest?

For us, the service is exactly the same. Every guest deserves the same level of hospitality, regardless of whether they are in the industry or not.

I think the difference is what people are looking for when they come to a bar. Bartenders might be more curious about the techniques, ingredients, or philosophy behind a drink because it's something they're passionate about. Other guests are often simply looking for a great drink and a good time. We try our best to make everyone feel welcome and leave with a good experience.

Is there a particular kind of pressure or joy in making a drink for someone who knows mixology?

It's actually a common situation for us. We have bartenders and cocktail lovers visiting bars all the time, just as we visit theirs. It's part of the industry and part of how we learn from one another.

Mius Cocktails: Float and Dirty Margarita — (From left) Float and Dirty Margarita | Courtesy of Mius

You've told the story of how an experience in a Japanese bar in Causeway Bay changed your view on cocktails. What contributed to that shift?

It wasn't just the drink. Until then, I still thought bartending was mainly about speed and entertainment. That "Last Word" showed that bartending had so many more possibilities than I had imagined. It could be more creative, thoughtful, and intentional.

Walking away from the nightclub scene, was it about being pulled towards mixology? Or being pushed away from the burnout?

Probably both. I knew I couldn't stay in the nightclub scene forever, even though it was really fun at that time. I was looking for something more sustainable and meaningful in the long run.

strawberry negroni at Mius for All Mixed Up interview with Shelley Tai Founder of Mius — Strawberry Negroni | Courtesy of Mius

When you joined Quinary in 2016, you'd already been bartending for six years, and started again as a barback. What did it take to start over again? And would you make the same choice today?

To be honest, I didn't see it as taking a step backwards. I already had experience behind the bar, but I knew there was still so much I didn't know. Starting as a barback gave me the chance to observe, practice, and develop good habits without skipping any steps.

Looking back, I would happily make the same choice.

You mentioned that newcomers now can "learn things faster." Is there something from those long apprenticeship days that you'd still want to preserve and pass on?

I think times have changed and that's a good thing. Today, technique and knowledge are much more accessible, so bartenders can progress much faster than we did. But there are still many things that require experience and time.

You can't rush judgement, consistency, attention to detail, or genuine hospitality. Those are things you develop by repeating the same standards every single day and learning from real situations behind the bar.

Could you share one of the biggest highlights of the long apprenticeship you've experienced in the past?

Honestly, there wasn't much of a highlight! It was a very repetitive job. I guess sometimes the most boring part of the journey is what prepares you for everything that comes after.

Mius Team | Photo from Instagram/Shelley Tai

When did you realize that introversion is an asset, an edge?

I don't think there was a choice for me.

So instead of trying to change who I was, I just focused on what I naturally enjoyed and did well. I listened more, observed more, and tried to build genuine connections with my guests in my own way. Somehow, it just worked.

How would you recommend introverted bartenders harness their introversion as a strength?

My advice is not to think that being introverted means giving up on opportunities. It just means finding your own way to take them.

Everyone has different strengths. They can all be important qualities in hospitality. Focus on what you naturally do well and develop your own style instead of trying to copy someone else's personality.

In an industry that often rewards loud personalities, has being soft-spoken ever cost you?

Not really. I have never been someone who seeks the spotlight. I prefer to focus on doing my job well and let my work speak for itself. I think this industry has room for different personalities, and being quiet doesn't mean you have less to offer.

Nutmeg & Clove team — Nutmeg & Clove Team | Photo from Instagram/ Shelley Tai

Singapore taught you how to manage a team and build a culture. What was the hardest part of becoming a leader?

The hardest part was that I wasn't equipped with the skills to become a leader.

I was bartender-trained, not leader-trained. Everything from communication and coaching to building a culture was something I had to learn through experience. It was almost like starting from the beginning.

What are the biggest differences between being a bartender and a leader?

I think a bartender mainly focuses on becoming better themselves. A leader is very different. Your job is to bring the team together, help everyone grow, and make sure everyone is moving towards the same vision.

As a bartender, success is about how well you perform. As a leader, success is seeing the people around you succeed.

What made you decide to open your own bar, Mius?

I wanted to create a place that brought together everything I had learnt throughout my career and reflected who I had become as a person. Every place I worked taught me something different. Mius gave me the opportunity to put all those experiences into one space and create something that truly felt like my own.

In many ways, Mius is a reflection of my journey and my values.

dessert offerings at Mius bar by Shelley Tai for All Mixed Up interview with The Beat Asia — Courtesy of Mius

Mius runs on restraint. As something that is arguably harder to execute and easier to overlook, how do you make sure guests can understand the care and intent behind a "simple" drink?

I don't think simple means it's not enough.

We actually don't try to overexplain what we do or emphasize how much work goes into every drink. For me, hospitality is about creating a feeling. If a guest enjoys the drink, feels comfortable, and wants to come back, then we've done our job. They don't need to understand every technique behind it.

Where does this pull toward simplicity come from in you personally?

Earlier in my career, I wanted to show people what I could do.

Today, I care more about how people feel than how impressed they are. That's why simplicity is so attractive to me. It removes distractions and lets the important things speak for themselves.

Gin & Apple cocktail — Gin & Apple | Courtesy of Mius

Why is your iceless highball the drink that represents your homecoming?

It's the drink I enjoy most after work, so it felt natural to introduce it at Mius. Everyone is familiar with a highball served over ice. Our iceless highball is simply another possibility.

I think that's what I enjoy the most about bartending; there's always room to look at something familiar from a different perspective.

Do you believe that what a person orders tells you who they are?

Maybe a little. But I don't think it tells you everything. Sometimes it reflects a person's mood more than their personality. I think what's more interesting is the conversation behind the order.

Which bar right now makes you feel like a guest again, the way that "Last Word" drink in Causeway Bay once did?

I don't think it's one particular bar anymore. These days, it's more about the people and the hospitality than the cocktails themselves.

What's next for you and for Mius?

I hope Mius continues to grow naturally and become a place people keep coming back to for many years.

Personally, I want to keep learning and building. Not just better bars, but better teams and better experiences for our guests.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

To learn more about Shelley Tai, follow her on Instagram. Visit Mius Hong Kong's website and follow them on Instagram for more updates.

Enjoyed this article? Check out our previous All Mixed Up articles here.

Get the latest curated content with The Beat Asia's newsletters. Sign up now for a weekly dose of the best stories, events, and deals delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss out! Click here to subscribe.

View Full Article

Hong Kong/ Delish/ Happenings

Published: July 24, 2026

HUNGER RUN 2026 Returns with a New Pet-Friendly Run This November

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by FOODSPORT

by: The Beat Asia

Published:
July 24, 2026

Looking for a meaningful way to stay active while giving back? Then it's time to mark your calendars for HUNGER RUN 2026, as it returns to the Tseung Kwan O Waterfront on Nov. 22, 2026. Organized by social enterprise FOODSPORT and sponsored by Sunlight REIT, the annual charity run combines fitness, community spirit, and food security under the theme, “Run + Food + Charity.”

Whether you're a seasoned runner, a family looking for a fun weekend activity, or a company planning a team-building day, there’s a race category for everyone. Participants can choose from a 10KM Individual and Team Race, a 4KM Individual and Family Run, or the brand-new 1KM Pet-Friendly Run, where furry companions are invited to join the fun.

This year's event ambassador is Majimeow (麻吉貓), the beloved Taiwanese cat character encouraging healthier lifestyles and charitable giving.

Corporate teams are especially encouraged to take part. Not only is the event a great opportunity to promote workplace wellness and strengthen team bonds, but every corporate team that signs up will also help unlock additional donations to support Feeding Hong Kong.

Companies can also earn special recognition through initiatives, such as the Most Committed Organization Award for organizations with the highest number of participants on the event day, a Supporting Organization status for organizations that sponsors 20 employees or under-privileges, and the Caring Company Nomination 2026/27.

Beyond the race day, attendees can look forward to themed markets and carnival activities on Nov. 7-8 and 21-22, 2026, at MCPOne and a new 4KM "Food Chaser" Fun Run challenge.

Gather your friends, family, colleagues, or even your pets, and join the movement to make a difference one kilometer at a time!

Every step taken and every calorie burned will help support Feeding Hong Kong, the Home for Homeless Animals, and the FOODSPORT Foundation. More details will be announced via the event's official website in the coming weeks. To sponsor, fill out the form provided by the event.

For more updates, follow FOODSPORT on Instagram, Facebook, and visit their website.

Get the latest curated content with The Beat Asia's newsletters. Sign up now for a weekly dose of the best stories, events, and deals delivered straight to your inbox. Don't miss out! Click here to subscribe.

View Full Article

How to Celebrate Asia's 50 Best Bars 2025 in HK & Macau

Wynn Macau & Wynn Palace

The Opposites

The Aubrey

OZONE Hong Kong

Singular Concepts

Bourke's

Campari

LALA

Terrible Baby

Honky Tonks Tavern

Zuma Hong Kong

GOKAN

Vibes

This Week's Event In Hong Kong View more

This Week's Event In Hong Kong

Don't Miss 852 Mahjong Social's Monthly Mahjong Nights at BaseHall

Most Popular in HKG

Preparation is Everything: Antoine Semenyo x Ahmad Tea Deliver Masterclass

Trending in HKG

Draft Land x nodi Bring Coffee by Day, Cocktails by Night in New TST Venue

Matchali Reopens Moon Street Flagship with New Drinks Plus Mooncake Collab

r é n Teams Up with Té Bo, Aqua for New Charity Dinner Series

'Ice Cream Jam' Brings Local Flavors and Summer Fun to Lee Gardens

Miffy Takes Over Ramen Iroha HK with a Cute Themed Menu & Merchandise

HIGHERTHAN by Young Master Brings Back Yogurt Vodka Highballs This Summer

All Mixed Up: Mius Founder Shelley Tai on Being a Bartenders' Bartender

Congratulations on the Altos Bartenders' Bartender Award 2026. Does peer recognition land differently than a competition title?

Is there a difference between serving a fellow bartender versus a regular guest?

Is there a particular kind of pressure or joy in making a drink for someone who knows mixology?

You've told the story of how an experience in a Japanese bar in Causeway Bay changed your view on cocktails. What contributed to that shift?

Walking away from the nightclub scene, was it about being pulled towards mixology? Or being pushed away from the burnout?

When you joined Quinary in 2016, you'd already been bartending for six years, and started again as a barback. What did it take to start over again? And would you make the same choice today?

You mentioned that newcomers now can "learn things faster." Is there something from those long apprenticeship days that you'd still want to preserve and pass on?

Could you share one of the biggest highlights of the long apprenticeship you've experienced in the past?

When did you realize that introversion is an asset, an edge?

How would you recommend introverted bartenders harness their introversion as a strength?

In an industry that often rewards loud personalities, has being soft-spoken ever cost you?

Singapore taught you how to manage a team and build a culture. What was the hardest part of becoming a leader?

What are the biggest differences between being a bartender and a leader?

What made you decide to open your own bar, Mius?

Mius runs on restraint. As something that is arguably harder to execute and easier to overlook, how do you make sure guests can understand the care and intent behind a "simple" drink?

Where does this pull toward simplicity come from in you personally?

Why is your iceless highball the drink that represents your homecoming?

Do you believe that what a person orders tells you who they are?

Which bar right now makes you feel like a guest again, the way that "Last Word" drink in Causeway Bay once did?

What's next for you and for Mius?

HUNGER RUN 2026 Returns with a New Pet-Friendly Run This November

This Week's Deals in Hong Kong

Trending in HKG