What’s On HKG: Best Things to See, Do, Eat, Drink on Aug. 28-Sept. 3, 2023

Ahh, another week is upon us, and you’re looking for cool things to get up to in the 852! We’ve saved you the hassle with The Beat Hong Kong’s rundown of the best places to hit up and things to do right now—from blink-and-you'll-miss-it pop-up sights and new restaurant openings, to the hottest activities that you shouldn’t miss.

To keep your finger on the pulse of the city, follow The Beat Hong Kong to see what’s best in store for the week ahead. 

1. New French Cinema - Nouveau Cinéma Français by Alliance Française de Hong Kong

Since the Lumière brothers' invention of the cinematograph in 1895, French cinema has undergone various evolutions; from avant-garde silent films to the revolutionary French New Wave, the captivating cinéma du look, and more.

Asking the question of what defines the new age of French cinema in the 2010s and 2020s, Alliance Française de Hong Kong spotlights four films by emerging French talents, including Palme d'Or winner Justine Triet, Charlène Favier, Eric Gravel, and Martin Jauvat. As part of their latest New French Cinema programme, the Jordan Centre library is offering free screenings for those eager to explore the contemporary landscape of French film.

When: Now until Sept. 1

Where: AF Jordan Centre, G/F - 3/F, 52 Jordan Road, Kowloon

How much: Sign up here, Free entry with RSVP

2. Sangria Summer Party by Spanish Chamber of Hong Kong

Take part in a networking extravaganza hosted by the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, unlike any other. Held at Tsim Sha Tsui’s Papagayo, savour eight types of unique sangrias, fine Spanish wines, and the crisp Estrella Damm beer while getting to meet new folks in a vibrant yet casual setting.

To enhance the evening, Spanish tunes will set the backdrop for a real fiesta. Tickets cover Papagayo’s exquisite tapas as well as entry to a lucky draw, where you might win the premium Roxanne Vintage 2020 Cava. Sign up below!

3. Showa City Club x Yuning Pop-up Exhibition in Sham Shui Po

Joining hands with Taiwanese illustrator Yuning to host her first-ever solo exhibition in Hong Kong, Showa City Club is playing backdrop to a very special pop-up showcasing her vividly cheeky works. Her explosive drawings blend holographic hues and neon shading with traditional Chinese icons, like the Choi Sun (God of Fortune) depicted swagged out in trendy sneakers, and the goddess Guan Yin splashing a pour of Iron Goddess tea into a cup. The exhibition will be showing up to 20 of her pieces, alongside a rotation of merch that’s up for sale, from funky T-shirts to glossy stickers, and more.

When: Now until Sept. 17

Where: Showa City Club, 15B Wong Chuk Street, Sham Shui Po, Kowloon

How much: Free entry

4. An Evening of Ukrainian Culture at the Hong Kong Arts Centre

Experience the beauty of Ukranian culture and folk arts at this one-of-a-kind market bazaar at the Hong Kong Arts Centres. Featuring cultural souvenirs capturing Ukraine's essence, unique accessories crafted by local Ukrainian artists, authentic beverages, and delightful cuisine, every purchase directly aids the people of Ukraine.

Concurrently, a concert featuring the melodies of maestro Nazar Tabachyshyn will be held at the Goethe-Institut's Black Box Studio between 7:25 PM and 8 PM. Revel in inviting Ukrainian and East European songs, enriched with evocative video projections. Book your spot now with the link below.

When: Aug. 29

Where: Goethe-Gallery & Black Box Studio, 14/F, Hong Kong Arts Centre, Wan Chai, 2 Harbour Road, Hong Kong

How much: Sign up here, HK$80 (for concert)

5. A Taste of Forest Bathing in Sai Kung by Catch A Breath

Discover the rejuvenating power of Forest Bathing at Sai Kung's Lion Nature Education Centre. This ancient Japanese wellness practice, known as Shinrin-yoku, emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of immersing oneself in nature. The session guide Carmen, a certified Forest Bathing expert and founder of Catch A Breath, will lead participants through nature connection activities in Sai Kung's lush environment.

It's not just about the activities, but the sensory connection with nature. This session aims to reduce stress, enhance mood, and offer a break from the daily grind. Participants will not only experience Sai Kung's beauty but also learn how to incorporate Forest Bathing into their daily routines.

When: Sept. 1, 2, 8, 15, 16, 22

Where: Lion's Nature Education Centre, Sai Kung, New Territories

How much: Sign up here, HK$317.97

6. 1/X Andy Lau x Art Exhibition at West Kowloon Cultural District

Andy Lau, more than just a luminary in entertainment, has become an artistic emblem to share his creative ethos. Venturing beyond his musical and acting performances, Lau is presenting an exclusive collaboration with contemporary artists to express his inner world in multifaceted artistic forms.

Venturing into an avant-garde artistic endeavour, the 1/X Andy Lau exhibition at West Kowloon Cultural District signals an all-new era in Lau's career, redefining the contours of art within boundless potential. Contributing artists include HUANG YULONG, LIN YUSI, STICKYLINE, and XUZHUOER.

When: Now until Sept. 9

Where: Freespace Art Park, West Kowloon Cultural District, 8 Austin Road West, Kowloon

How much: Buy tickets here, HK$298

7. KUMO Tarot Night at KUMO Lounge & Bar in Causeway Bay

KUMO Lounge is unveiling another round of limited special cocktails, this time Tarot card themed, with a complimentary tarot reading session to go with any order of these delectable drinks. Introducing The Emperor, a Major Arcana-inspired drink that blends Prestige Cognac with Ruby Port and cinnamon for a punchy yet deep aroma, the balanced and warming Ten of Cups made with butterscotch popcorn bourbon, and the poignant Wheel of Fortune shaken with Sapphire Blue gin and champagne, KUMO Lounge’s three featured tipples each chart a fateful journey into taste.

To ensure your future holds a seat at the table for the Tarot session, RSVP a spot now by contacting KUMO Lounge at the number (+852) 5112 4141.

When: Aug. 30

Where: KUMO Lounge and Bar, 13/F, Ying Kong Mansion, 2-6 Yee Wo Street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong

How much: Prices vary

8. Floral-themed Resto-Café Tomacado Opens in Causeway Bay

Chinese restaurant franchise Tomacado, famed for merging floral aesthetics with culinary expertise, has just arrived in Causeway Bay. Aiming to offer a flora-flled sanctuary in Hong Kong's centre, it champions natural, healthy, and sustainably beautiful food. Offering primarily Western dishes, Tomacado keeps things interesting by incorporating flavours from Chinese, Southeast Asian, and Japanese cuisines.

A highlight is the Roasted Sanhuang Chicken with Herbs (from HK$148), marinated, air-dried for a day, roasted, and paired with signature chili powder. Desserts like the Grapey Oolong Tea Jelly (HK$68), reminiscent of lotus flowers, and signature drinks like the colour-changing Blue Butterfly Soda (HK$68) further enhance the dining experience.

When: Now open, 11:30 AM – 11 PM, Daily

Where: Tomacado, Shop L2-06, wwwtc mall, 280 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong

How much: Prices vary

9. Jackson’s Scone x The Lounge Afternoon Tea Collab Set at The Hari

The Lounge at The Hari offers an exquisite spot to indulge in an afternoon tea in its stylish, yet cozy sitting area. Redefining an afternoon tea staple in the form of a delightful collaboration with renowned local bakery, Jackson's Scone, The Hari Hong Kong introduces the enchanting new Jackson Box Tea Set.

On the sweet side, you can taste the signature Jackson Scone in both its original and an exclusive Yuzu flavour, the latter a vibrant shade of blue from Butterfly Pea powder, symbolic of The Hari. These scones are complemented with clotted cream, homemade compote, sumptuous Blueberry Cheesecake, Sicilian Cannoli with hints of Pistachio and Amalfi lemon, and the signature Tiramisu. The savoury selections feature an array of Finger Sandwiches, rich Black Truffle and Ham Calzone, and an inventive Japanese Egg Yolk Mousse crowned with Smoked Herring Caviar.

When: 3 PM – 5 PM, Now until Nov. 22

Where: The Lounge, The Hari, 330 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

How much: Book here, Starting from HK$768 for two

10. LANDMARK Tasting Mastery: Susan Jung x China Tang x SẾP

The gastronomic LANDMARK Tasting Mastery culinary series returns for its second run, uniting eminent food critic Susan Jung with award-winning chefs Menex Cheung of China Tang LANDMARK and DoBee Lam from Vietnamese eatery SẾP.

This trio has orchestrated an exclusive menu infused with a beautiful combination of Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean flavours. A highlight is the SMD Chicken - a deep-fried poultry delight featuring cuttlefish, abalone, sea cucumber, fish maw; and SẾP's unique smoked chili sauce. This dish exemplifies the seamless blend of Cantonese tastes with Vietnamese wood-fired flavours bearing French colonial touches, while the Korean fried chicken essence provides an unexpected twist – just a teaser of what’s to come in this multi-culturally influenced menu!

When: Now until Sept. 30

Where: China Tang LANDMARK, Shops 411-413, 4/F, LANDMARK ATRIUM 15 Queen's Road Central, Central, Hong Kong

How much: Call to book, HK$1688 per person