Clear the decks for June 28! That's when the ultimate face-off in mixology will go down at Zuma Hong Kong. This will be the grand finale of the Diageo World Class Competition Hong Kong and Macau 2023, where six exceptional finalists will battle it out in an exciting cocktail challenge.
The leading contenders, Birstacla Wong (The Green Door), Jack Ng (Argo), Quentin Luk (Kuromaru), Siumung Wong (Kuromaru), Taki Li (Bar Leone), and Yvonne Chan (Argo), have an arduous task. They are tasked to whip up inventive aperitifs and digestifs, which perfectly pair with Zuma's standout dishes - the delicate Seared Salmon with Lemon, Shiso & Soy, and the indulgent Chocolate Lava Cake with Caramel, Hazelnut Praline, and Tahitian Vanilla Ice Cream.
Diageo
But the trials don't end here. These cocktail maestros will also be put through a nail-biting speed challenge, having to stir up five imaginative twists on classic cocktails in a blitz five-minute window. The victor will not only clinch the prestigious Bartender of the Year title, but also the opportunity to uphold Hong Kong and Macau's cocktail artistry at the World Final in São Paulo, Brazil, come September.
Last year, the esteemed title was won by the gifted Jo Lo. As the new line-up of hopefuls prepares to display their cocktail prowess, anticipation is bubbling up for who will be the next to seize the Bartender of the Year 2023 title.
When: 12 PM onwards, June 28
Where: Zuma, Level 5&6 Landmark Atrium, 15 Queen's Road Central, Central, Hong Kong
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Corks Wine & Bar is hosting "Beached & Buzzed," the July edition of its Discovino series on July 4, from 4 PM till late at its Causeway Bay spot. Entry is free; guests can register through the link in Corks' Instagram bio.
The event pairs a live DJ set by P.Grant with an extended happy hour. With Hong Kong's turbulent summer weather and heat running at its peak, Corks is offering an indoor beach-party experience without the actual sand.
Corks' invitation is simple: "Hong Kong's melting, so we're throwing a beach party indoors." They promise "breezy beach vibes, ice-cold wine, and a DJ spinning all night long." All you need to bring are your shades and the energy to dance!
Discovino is Corks' monthly recurring event centered on music, sips, and dancing. Last June, their Discovino event was themed: Orange Summer. They debuted an orange wine, and guests were encouraged to don the bright color.
Register for the upcoming Fourth of July Discovino event through this link.
Stay tuned to their upcoming Discovino events and other updates by following Corks on Instagram.
Location: Corks Wine & Bar, G/F, 23 Lan Fong Road, Causeway Bay
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Award-winning cocktail parlor DarkSide is gearing up to unveil a brand-new cocktail experience. In a teaser posted on Instagram, the bar announced “Echoes,” its upcoming menu featuring nine cocktails inspired by a reimagined Hong Kong, set to launch on July 8, 2026.
While details remain under wraps, the teaser hints at a collection that draws from the city's identity, culture, and stories, continuing DarkSide’s tradition of crafting narrative-driven drinks.
Located within Rosewood Hong Kong, DarkSide has earned international recognition over the years, including multiple appearances on Asia’s 50 Best Bars list. Guests can expect the new menu to debut alongside the venue’s signature offerings of rare aged spirits, vintage cigars, and live jazz performances.
More details on the nine-drink collection are expected to be revealed ahead of the launch. In the meantime, cocktail enthusiasts can keep an eye on Rosewood Hong Kong's Instagram for updates.
Location: DarkSide, 2/F Rosewood Hong Kong Victoria Dockside, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
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Cocktail lovers looking for something beyond the usual martinis and highballs may want to make a stop at DIO Cafe・Bar, as it presents inventive drinks with local botanical liqueur brand Magnolia Lab.
Among its standout creations is the DIOSOY (這不是麥精), a playful cocktail by DIO's Sunny Leung with packaging that appears to be inspired by Hong Kong's iconic bottled soymilk drink. Served in a glass bottle for direct sipping, the drink combines black glutinous wine, oat milk, house-made ginger tea syrup, and Magnolia Lab MAGNOLIA, Magnolia Lab's signature botanical liqueur (ABV 29%) infused with magnolia berries, aged tangerine peel, mulberries, and sandalwood.
Also on the menu is Drunken Chicken (醉雞) by Wing Chan from the DIO team, a savory cocktail that has been a DIO Cafe・Bar signature. The drink mixes Magnolia Lab ROSELLE (ABV 19%) with Shaoxing yellow wine, chili liqueur, Zaolu Superior Pickle Sauce, and chicken essence for a bold interpretation of the classic Chinese drunken chicken dish.
Photo by Instagram/Magnolia Lab 五味雜陳
Rooted in its "Mixology x Herbology" philosophy, Magnolia Lab crafts botanical liqueurs infused with premium Chinese herbs sourced from 100 Cabinet. Paired with DIO Cafe・Bar's flair for reimagining familiar flavors through inventive cocktails, the partnership continues to showcase how traditional herbal ingredients can find new life behind the bar.
For adventurous drinkers seeking something distinctly Hong Kong, these drinks may be the next glass (or bottle) to order next. To learn more, check Magnolia Lab's website and Instagram or follow DIO Cafe・Bar on Instagram.
Location: DIO Cafe・Bar, 8 Aberdeen Street, Central, Central District, Hong Kong
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If you're looking for a fun way to mark the Independence Day of the United States in Hong Kong, several venues across the city are rolling out special menus, all-day celebrations, and American-inspired parties packed with smoky meats, comfort food favorites, and festive cocktails.
For a laid-back celebration, Honky Tonks Tavern is hosting its Honky Americana Weekend on July 4 and 5, 2026, featuring signature smashed burgers alongside exclusive specials such as the Cowboy Burger, Homemade Chicken McNuggets, hard slushies, and picklebacks. Guests can enjoy country and rock 'n' roll tunes while digging into classic American-inspired fare. Doors open from 2 PM until late.
On July 4, 2026, guests can feast on an unlimited smoked meat buffet and join a full-day lineup that includes a Party Brunch from 12 PM to 3 PM, a Smokehouse Drink Up from 3 PM to 6 PM, and a Backyard BBQ from 7 PM until late. Expect Texas-style barbecue, free-flow drinks, and plenty of all-American vibes throughout the day!
Photo by Instagram/Smoke & Barrel Hong Kong
Those looking for a special holiday meal can head to FINI'S SOHO, which is offering a 4th of July Weekend Set Menu from July 4-6, 2026. Priced at HK$288 per guest, the menu features hearty dishes such as USDA Prime Rib Steak Sandwich, Slow-Cooked BBQ Picanha, Baby Back Ribs, Mac and Cheese, Grilled Sweet Corn, and Peach Cobbler.
Diners can also upgrade with two hours of free-flow drinks (Prosecco, Carlsberg, spirits, wine, and more) for an additional HK$298.
Photo by Facebook/FINI'S SOHO
Whether you're an American celebrating a taste of home or simply looking for an excuse to enjoy great food and drinks, these 4th of July events offer plenty of ways to join in the festivities across Hong Kong. Don't miss out!
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Patients, it's time for your dose of gin, as Hong Kong’s surrealist cocktail clinic The Doctor’s Residence by Dr. Fern has unveiled its first-ever signature house spirit. Named the DR. FERN GIN, this bespoke small-batch gin is crafted in collaboration with Denmark’s pioneering artisan producer, Copenhagen Distillery.
Produced in Copenhagen using the traditional London Dry method, the crystal-clear organic spirit is inspired by Nordic flavors and reflects the venue’s passion for innovative gin experiences. The earthy and herbaceous blend combines classic juniper with Scandinavian aquavit, alongside notes of fresh dill, caraway, angelica root, fiery turmeric, and pink peppercorn. Enjoyed neat, the gin delivers a crisp and clean profile, while drinking it mixed reveals a richer, more elegant flavor with a lingering peppery finish.
For those wanting to bring the experience home, DR. FERN GIN is available for retail at HK$520 per bottle. A HK$700 Gift Box edition includes a signature Dr. Fern’s G&T glass, a hand-selected premium earthy tonic, and recipe cards for recreating two of the bar’s signature serves at home.
Located within The Pottinger Hotel, The Doctor’s Residence by Dr. Fern is known for its immersive 1970s-inspired concept, where botanicals are treated as medicine and cocktails are crafted as personalized prescriptions for the chronically curious.
For more details and updates, follow the cocktail clinic on Facebook and Instagram.
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This July, "Wing Lei Bar & Friends" is coming back for round two!
From July 24 to 29, 2026, the program takes over Wynn Palace for a six-day festival of guest shifts, late-night takeovers, and after-ceremony parties.
Wynn Resorts Macau is also the Official Host Partner of Asia's 50 Best Bars 2026 for the second consecutive year, serving as the principal stage for the region's premier bar awards on July 28, 2026. Alongside the award ceremony, official events including the Meet the Bartenders media roundtable, the Bartenders' Feast, and the Closing Party are sure to kick off the festivities and keep it going after the awarding.
At the center of the festival is Wing Lei Bar, Wynn Palace's flagship cocktail destination. This 2026, the "Wing Lei Bar & Friends" series draws more than 50 bartenders all over the world for a week of inspired mixology.
Organizers built the lineup around a theme of movement, echoing Wing Lei Bar's signature UNITY menu. Fittingly, the festival's opening night doubles as the debut of UNITY 2.0, the bar's second cocktail chapter: 12 drinks built from personal stories Director of Bars Mark Lloyd gathered during a year on the road. Guests can experience the showcase on July 24 (4 to 6 PM) and July 28 (5 to 6 PM).
On the evening of July 24, from 8 PM till late, Wing Lei Bar is setting the tone for guest shifts with "Asia Checks In, Let's Shake Up." Guest bars include ZLB23 (Bangalore), Avoca (Hong Kong), Bar Sathorn (Bangkok), and Stay Gold (Singapore).
The following day, on July 25, "The Road Less Traveled" converges in Wing Lei Bar, bringing together Nomad Lab (Ulaanbaatar), Barc (Kathmandu), which is Asia's 50 Best Bars 2025 Michter's Art of Hospitality Award winner, and Kiki Lounge (Douglas), which earned The Spirits Business Awards Bar of the Year 2024. Catch their drinks from 5 to 8 PM.
Right after their shift, the Brits are taking over with "The Best of British II," from 8 PM till late. Bargoers can expect displays of contemporary British bar culture from Below Stairs (Leeds), Bar Glue (Liverpool), and Passing Fancies (Birmingham).
Courtesy of The Foundry Asia
While a more relaxed Sunday event on July 26 is expected, Wing Lei continues to bring their A-game, putting together another takeover that cannot be missed with "Shake & Stir Hall of Fame." Influential industry figures are taking over: Quinary and The Opposites (Hong Kong bars) Co-Owner Antonio Lai is mixing alongside Founder of Danico (Paris) and Kota Pandan Liqueur Nico De Soto. This is only from 2 to 4 PM.
That evening, from 6 PM till late, Altos Bartenders' Bartender honorees are working behind the stick. Jay Khan (2020 awardee, founder of COA) and Andrew Ho (2025 awardee, co-founder of Hope & Sesame) are opening from 6 PM. While Keith Motsi (2022 awardee, head bartender of VIRTÙ) and Beckaly Franks (2023 awardee, co-founder of Call Me AL and ARTIFACT) take over from 8 pm onwards.
"Drink Thy Neighbors - a Hong Kong Takeover" kicks off the following week on July 27 with a takeover sponsored by Rémy Cointreau. Four bars from the neighboring island are mixing it up from 2 to 5 PM: Bourke's, Swim Club, Honky Tonks Tavern, and The Green Door.
That evening, from 5 to 7 PM, friends from Malaysia are taking over with "From KL with Love." Asia's 50 Best Bars 2025 No. 16, Three X Co, and No. 10, Penrose, are bringing their sophisticated cocktails to Wing Lei Bar.
The "Cocktail Man," Danil Nevsky from Barcelona, keeps the party going on July 27 from 10 PM till late. His shift on the eve of the ceremony is expected to raise the tempo for what is the region's biggest cocktail award.
Courtesy of The Foundry Asia
On July 28, Wing Lei Bar is bringing together female powerhouses with "Behind Her Bar" from 2 to 5 PM. The lineup is curated by Jen Queen and Nicole Slater of The Pontiac, along with Beckaly Franks of ARTIFACT and Call Me AL. Alongside the curators are guest bartenders, including Zana Möhlmann of Manhattan (Singapore), Evangeline Malley of Below Stairs (Leeds), Arlene Wong of The Green Door (Hong Kong), and Nic Ho of Dead Poets (Hong Kong).
After the ceremony, two after-parties are set to rock the place till late. Wing Lei Bar is hosting a "Secret Houseparty," with Mark Lloyd reuniting with former apprentices who are now bar owners in Shanghai: Bar OJ, Pawoo By, and Bar Times. Bar Mixato is also joining the late-night gathering.
Campari sponsors the second after-party at the Palace Reserve Club. In the lineup are veterans and recent inductees into the Asia's 50 Best Bars list: Cat Bite Club (Singapore), The Cocktail Club (Jakarta), Opium (Bangkok), Soka (Bangalore), and Carrots (Jakarta).
It's going to be a week unlike any other. "Wing Lei Bar & Friends" is not just returning this 2026, but it's upping the ante.
For more information and updates, visit Wing Lei Bar's website and follow them on Instagram.
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Butter, Hong Kong’s favorite American bake shop, is tapping into TikTok ’s latest dessert obsession with the launch of its limited-time Dot Cake.
Now available at HK$68 each across all stores and on foodpanda, the viral-inspired treat features layers of vanilla cake and vanilla buttercream, finished with a topping of colorful dot sprinkles to add both crunch and a playful touch.
Designed as a single-serve indulgence- which may have you ordering a second- Butter’s take on the trend perfectly channels the look and texture that made dot cakes a global social media hit.
Also known as Dotcups, dot cakes are compact, layered desserts served in cups or jars, typically finished with frosting and nonpareil sprinkles. The trend was popularized by New York bakery The Dotcakes, whose eye-catching creations quickly went viral for their satisfying textures and vibrant appearance on TikTok and Instagram.
Rolled out as part of the brand’s monthly specials, the Dot Cake is available while stocks last. For more details, visit Butter's website or follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
Butter, Shop 007, LG1, 88 Queensway, Pacific Place
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Ube is having a main character moment this summer, and Hong Kong’s dessert scene is leaning all the way in with their versions of this popular purple yam from the Philippines. From a limited-time froyo collab to a striking cake in Central, these newly announced ube creations are giving foodies plenty of reasons to chase that signature nutty, vanilla-like flavor and eye-catching color.
First up, Drool Froyo at Elgin Street in Central is bringing back its crowd-favorite collab with Barkada after selling out in its initial run. Available for two weekends only, on June 19-21 and 26-28, 2026, from 1 PM to 10 PM (or until sold out), the Ube Sticky Rice Froyo (HK$55) layers Barkada’s house-made ube coconut sauce with purple yam sticky rice, fresh mango, and Drool Froyo’s creamy Greek frozen yogurt. It features a dreamy mix of earthy, nutty, and tropical flavors, all in a light, low-fat and low-sugar base that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Courtesy of Barkada
As an added treat, guests who share a public Instagram story or feed post featuring the froyo and tag @Barkada.HK will receive a 10% off digital voucher (capped at HK$100 and valid until July 31, 2026) for their next visit to Barkada. Prefer to keep things private? Simply send Barkada a direct message with a photo of the froyo to enjoy the same reward.
For those in the mood for something celebratory, head to Vission Nine at Staunton Street for their vibrant Ube Coconut Cake. This tropical stunner features layers of ube buttermilk cake, rich ube halaya, and cream cheese filling, finished with light ube buttercream and coconut shreds. Available in 4-inch (HK$420), 6-inch (HK$800), and 9-inch (HK$1,400) sizes, it’s ideal for sharing with loved ones. It also comes with a free chocolate plaque option for those who want to add a custom message.
Photo by Website/Vission Nine
Still craving more ube? Head to Holy Gaw in Wan Chai for its cult-favorite Ube Ice Cream Sandwich with Pandan Pandesal and Ube Basque Cheesecake to turn your day into a full-on purple dessert crawl. Although not new on the menu, these two honorable mentions have earned their cult status for being must-try desserts that helped put the Filipino restaurant on the map.
With limited-time drops, tropical flavors, and that unmistakable purple glow, these ube treats are basically summer in a spoon (or slice) so don't miss out!
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A new beauty-inspired gelato has landed in Central as Snack Baby has teamed up with Sephora Hong Kong to debut their new Raspberry Hibiscus flavor, which is now available exclusively at their Hollywood Road store.
The limited-edition scoop builds on a raspberry sorbetto base that delivers a tangy sweetness to the taste buds, complemented by chewy hibiscus gummies to introduce a gentle floral note and a finishing drizzle of balsamic glaze to add a subtle savory sharpness to the dessert. Who could resist such a scrumptious flavor combination - with Snack Baby's gourmet recipes, will definitely give you a refreshing taste, summery glow, and sweet raspberry tint for those lips.
Drawing from Sephora Collection’s latest line of cheek and lip tints, the flavor channels the product's juicy, buildable hues into something you can actually eat.
Photo by Instagram/ Snack Baby
Known for their lactose-free and animal-free lineup and recognition in the MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong 2025, Snack Baby continues to push creative boundaries with inventive seasonal drops, from their recent Peanut Butter Banana Munch and Olive Oil FroYo Stracciatella to its Toasted Almond Latte and Spicy Melon Candy flavors.
The Raspberry Hibiscus flavor is available for a limited time only, offering gelato lovers a fresh, summery treat that blends beauty and dessert in one scoop. For more details, visit Snack Baby's website or follow them on Facebook or Instagram.
Location: Snack Baby, 93 Hollywood Rd, Central, Hong Kong
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Leela Hong Kong is hosting Chef Takamasa Osawa of Tokyo's MICHELIN Bib Gourmand restaurant, Biryani Osawa, for an exclusive two-night collaboration dinner on June 24 and 25, 2026.
Osawa is teaming up with Leela's Chef-Owner Manav Tuli for "Grains and Spice," a multi-course menu built around four of Osawa's signature biryanis alongside Tuli's own take on the dish.
Each night is capped at 50 guests, and tickets are priced at HK$1,188 plus a 10% service charge per person.
Leela Hong Kong
The evening opens with a Lamb Nihari Shorba, followed by a run of starters that includes Tuna Papdi Chaat, a melt-in-the-mouth Lamb Galouti Kebab served with sheermal, and a Masala Fish Cheek Ramen with idiyappam.
Then comes the main event. Osawa will present four of his signature biryanis: a Japanese Unagi and Sancho Biryani, a Wagyu Shoulder and Burdock Biryani, a Guangdong Duck Biryani, and a Lobster Biryani.
Chef Manav is expected to bring his own interpretation, but details are kept under wraps for now. To end the meal is a Cardamom and Bergamot Peel Phirnee dessert.
Biryani OsawaBiryani Osawa
Osawa trained extensively in Indian kitchens before opening Biryani Osawa in Tokyo's Kanda neighborhood in August 2021, building a menu around exactly one dish. His guiding philosophy, as he described it, is simple: "Biryani or Die." Biryani Osawa earned a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand distinction and a cult following for his dedication to biryani. He has since expanded with a second Tokyo restaurant, Biryani Master.
Tuli has built Leela's reputation on a similar approach, using India's regional cuisines for dishes that go beyond the standard curry house lineup. Since opening inside Lee Garden Three, the restaurant has collected a steady run of accolades, including a recommended status in the MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong & Macau for three years straight.
Location: Leela Hong Kong, Shop 301-310, Lee Garden Three, 1 Sunning Road, Causeway Bay
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