Bar Story

Nestled along the quietly vibrant Elgin Street, Bar MIND – 念 introduces a minimalist cocktail experience by celebrated local mixologists Jo Lo and Birstacla Wong.

Partners in both life and business, Jo and Birs channel their award-winning talents into crafting refined yet honest drinks. Opened in June, Bar Mind welcomes guests into a serene and contemplative space, where every drink is distilled down to its purest expression.

Eight signature cocktails round out the menu, including several served on tap. Each creation is defined by clarity and intention, allowing the flavors of the cocktails to do most of the talking.

The name of the bar 念 means “thought” or “intention” in Chinese, reflecting Jo and Birs' belief that when a cocktail is made with genuine purpose and sincerity, it resonates personally and tells its own story.

Bartender Story

Jo cut her teeth bartending at the acclaimed DraftLand, then moved to The Pottinger’s hidden gem Room 309. She claimed the Diageo World Class Hong Kong & Macau Champion title in 2022, and brings a wealth of knowledge and unrelenting passion to Bar Mind.

“I’m grateful to work in a bar community where conversations about inclusivity aren’t just talk — they’re action,” she shared.

Meanwhile, Birs transforms cocktail-making into high art. A former fashion designer, Wong brings her creative flair to the bar, crafting drinks that dazzle the eye and intrigue the palate. Guided by instinct and steeped in creativity, her experimental concoctions showcase bold contrasts and harmonious blends.

“Cocktails are a creative discipline built on subtlety. My background in fashion taught me how harmony and contrast create beauty, and I carry that same philosophy into every drink I make.”

What’s the Vibe and Venue Like

Bar Mind's vibe is modern edginess meets minimalist sophistication. Perch on the high stools to watch the bartenders in action, or sink into one of the snug corner seats for a more intimate vibe. With its moody lighting and pared-back design, it’s a seductive choice for date nights, and the perfect refuge for a solo wind-down.

How Much Are Food and Drinks

Cocktails are priced between HK$130 and HK$150. There is no food menu, but the drinks are thoughtfully composed and flavor-rich enough to stand on their own.

What Drinks Did We Get

We sampled the full list of their eight house cocktails. The bar's drinks are crafted without any visible bottles or branding, which enhances their pared-back vibe. We tried cocktails infused with the Cantonese flavors of local dishes, and each drink offered unique flavor combinations that were unlike anything we had tried before.

Whispering Blooms (HK$130)

Whispering Blooms is light, floral, and refreshing. The jasmine tea provides a delicate base, while the elderflower adds a gentle sweetness. The hibiscus introduces a subtle tartness that rounds out the floral notes, while the citrus brings a clean, crisp finish, keeping the drink balanced and not too sweet. Ideal for those who prefer something subtle, fragrant, and easy to sip.

Monk’s Sea Breeze (HK$130)

This savory-meets-tropical cocktail is a visual delight, immediately inviting interaction. It arrives adorned with a quail egg–shaped delicacy nestled in a shell — almost too beautiful to touch. But do: once bitten, it releases a luscious passion fruit syrup, which can be poured into the drink to dial up the sweetness.

The flavor journey begins with vibrant rum and passion fruit, offering a bright, exotic lift. Tomato adds subtle acidity that cuts through the lushness, and the Lillet lends gentle bitterness and herbal finesse. A briny edge and a sharp touch of acid complete the experience.

A Taste Of Home (HK$140)

This cocktail features bold flavors such as tequila, bitter melon, and fermented black bean, inspired by the home-cooked meals from Jo and Birs’ childhood. It is a very approachable drink, despite the bitterness from the melon and the acidity of lime. The fermented black bean gives it a funkier edge than most cocktails, which gives it a subtle umami flavor. It feels like revisiting a memory: wistful, bold, and comforting all at once.

Campino Dreams (HK$140)

Those with a sweet tooth will enjoy Campino Dreams, a strawberry-flavored, yoghurt-washed cocktail reminiscent of childhood sweets. Topped with two pieces of dehydrated strawberry, this bright red concoction is fruity and punchy, with a touch of savory notes from the white miso, which keeps the sweetness in check.

Streetwise Boulevardier (HK$150)

This cocktail leans heavily into spice and umami, but it still tastes complex. The bourbon’s sweetness is matched with the mild heat of Sichuan pepper and chili oil, which offers a warmth that slowly builds rather than hitting you at once. The drink’s complex profile is complemented by a sea snail garnish, which keeps it interesting.

Savory Sipper (HK$150)

This is an earthy cocktail with an umami profile. The whiskey provides structure and warmth, and the dashi gives it a smoky and slightly fishy flavor, while the Pu Erh tea brings depth and slight smokiness. There is a slight sourness and herbal flavor from the bonito bitter, which is offset by the digestive biscuit.

Day & Night (HK$140)

This cocktail was a standout and a crowd-pleaser, especially for Espresso Martini lovers. Despite containing cream and milk, this velvety drink is surprisingly light. The Matcha adds an earthy element, which is strong enough to disguise the whisky slightly, without being overpowering. Served with a shortbread biscuit, it’s mellow and easy to drink, with a slightly sweet finish.

The Zen Harmony (HK$150)

The Zen Harmony is a clear, well-balanced cocktail with a touch of savoriness. The citrusy brightness from the yuzu stands out, while the kombu adds a subtle salty edge that doesn’t take over. The Japanese Genmaicha tea rounds it all out with a refreshing, toasty vibe that keeps the drink well grounded.

For more information, visit BAR MIND - 念 on their Instagram.

Location: BAR MIND - 念, G/F, 11 Elgin Street, Central

Opening Hours: Mondays to Fridays from 5 PM to 12 AM, Saturdays and Sundays from 5 PM to 2 AM

Keen for another round? Check out our other Delish Sips reviews here.