What’s On HKG: Best Things to See, Do, Eat, Drink on July 6 – 12, 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. Final Week to See ‘Virtually Versailles’ by French May Arts Festival at HK Heritage Museum

As we approach the summer, France’s Palace of Versailles has found a temporary home at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum as part of this year's French May Arts Festival. Virtually Versailles, an immersive exhibition that artfully merges heritage with digital technology, is being showcased.

Constructed in the 17th century, the Palace of Versailles boasts a rich and captivating history. It was abandoned after the French Revolution and restored in the 19th century, then transformed into a museum that exhibits the grandeur of France. Virtually Versailles, the palace's official immersive touring exhibition, offers visitors new insights into the grandiosity of the estate by enabling them to experience the palace through digitized recreations.

The exhibition is divided into six sections that encompass an introduction to Versailles’ historical background, detailed views of different rooms and areas of the Palace, a digital showcase of the royal collection of art pieces, and interactive games. Visitors can delve into the interactive content through the accompanying Virtually Versailles HK app (Apple, Play Store). The app includes details about the exhibition, audio guides, 360-degree immersive images of Versailles, an AR treasure hunt, a Baroque music playlist, and a digitized children's booklet.

When: Now until July 9

Where: Hong Kong Heritage Museum, 1 Man Lam Road, Sha Tin, New Territories

How much: Buy tickets here, HK$10

2. Happy Wednesday: Season Finale at Happy Valley Racecourse

Making us feel contrary to the event’s title, Happy Wednesday is coming to a close...at least for the season! Be a part of the final celebration, filled with thrills, horse racing, and music. The event will feature a live performance by Chris Polanco and his band, so bring out the salsa and samba skills you've been honing over the past few weeks and get ready to dance to some vibrant Latino rhythms.

This extravagant summer celebration calls for you to dress in your finest carnivale attire. Bask in the energetic atmosphere of Happy Valley right beside the track while savouring delicious snacks and taking refreshing sips. Don't miss out on the farewell bash of Happy Wednesday!

When: 7PM Onwards, July 12

Where: Happy Valley Racecourse, Happy Valley, Hong Kong

How much: HK$10 per person (excluding food & drink)

3. TBC & Friends: The Laughey Show at Studio 33 in Central

The comedic improv troupe, TBC Improv HK, returns with another evening of hilarity and entertainment, delivering a show that's entirely improvised and features special guests. Audience members are welcome to join in the fun and suggest topics for the performers to enact, resulting in a performance that's utterly unique and unpredictable each time. Each ticket includes a complimentary drink, making it the perfect prelude to a Friday night out. The show begins at 8 PM and will be hosted at a fresh venue this season.

When: 8 PM onwards, July 7

Where: Studio 33, 5/F, 31-33 Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong

How much: Buy tickets here, HK$225

4. 'gLEEful Music Busking’ at Lee Gardens in Causeway Bay

Over the past few years, the art of busking has gained significant momentum in Hong Kong, offering emerging young artists a platform to showcase their music and engage with audiences. As part of this burgeoning trend, Lee Gardens is hosting their very own mini-busking festival, an all-new performance series themed 'gLEEful moment'.

This summertime music event features a lineup of talented young locals from diverse musical backgrounds, ready to brighten your day with their melodies. The roster includes Edward.C陳浩, who will kick off the July shows with his R&B and city pop influenced solo songs, followed by award-winning artist Monkey 薛德勇. The performances are set to continue into August, with artists Sanchez Lam 林山川 and Jason Cheung 張匡佑 on the schedule for the next month.

When: 6:30 PM – 7:15 PM, July 6 & 20, Aug. 10 & 24

Where: Lee Gardens, 500 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong

How much: Free

5. California Wine Month: Sips of Summer at LauBak Livehouse in West Kowloon

Hong Kong is welcoming the fifth edition of California Wine Month this summer, with an abundance of West Coast wines and other events for wine lovers. The festivities commence with their flagship event, 'Sips of Summer', taking place across two consecutive Saturdays. Join winemakers to sample and purchase an array of exquisite bottles. The events, held at Lau Bak Livehouse in the West Kowloon Cultural District, will also feature performances from local artists Higgo Raj, Gordon Flanders, and Kiri T.

For HK$100, you can purchase a tasting kit that includes priority access to the event, a tote bag, fan, branded outdoor wine glass, HK$50 cash coupon, welcome drink coupon, and Fiji water to keep you refreshed. While walk-ins are permitted depending on capacity, priority will be given to those who have pre-purchased tasting kits. Participating vendors for the first session on July 8 include Jebsen Wines & Spirits, CWS Fine Wines, Watson's Wine, and EMW Fine Wines. For a comprehensive list of events taking place over California Wine Month, click here.

When: 12 PM – 5 PM, July 8 & 15

Where: LauBak Livehouse, Freespace, West Kowloon Cultural District, 18 Museum Drive, Kowloon

How much: Buy tickets here, HK$100

6. Ultraman Shochu Tasting by Two More Glasses in Sheung Wan

Ultraman fans and Shochu enthusiasts are in for a delightful treat. In celebration of the exclusive Ultraman Anniversary Shochu Gift Set release, Two More Glasses is hosting a special tasting session led by Anthony Yau to showcase this exquisite spirit.

Shochu's aroma is an intricate blend of earthy barley, complemented by a subtle hint of fruity undertones. Each sip strikes a fine balance between sweetness and umami, creating a tantalizing flavor profile paired with a velvety mouthfeel. Perfect for those who cherish a nostalgic fondness for the interstellar hero, the event allows attendees to sample the full range of Shochu from the gift set.

When: 7 PM – 8:30 PM, July 6

Where: Two More Glasses, G/F, 185 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong

How much: Buy tickets here, HK$168

7. Watching Parties for Wimbledon’s 2023 Championships at Newly Re-opened Staunton’s in Central

In the SoHo neighborhood, Staunton’s, the reigning gastropub, has made a grand comeback to its namesake street corner, right next to the Hong Kong Mid-Levels escalator. Keeping true to their British-inspired roots, the team is inviting patrons to celebrate Wimbledon in style. Witness the annual British tennis tournament on state-of-the-art big screens while indulging in a delectable spread inspired by classic British cuisine.

Begin your viewing with Strawberries with Fresh Cream and Mint Sugar (HK$118), a summer staple associated with Wimbledon, perfectly paired with a jug of fruity Pimm's (HK$198 per jug), a quintessential summer classic. Revel in sunny days with the picnic favorite British Coronation Chicken Salad (HK$138) or opt for Potato Skins with Smoked Salmon and Dill Crème Fraîche (HK$98) for a beer-friendly twist. Alternatively, you can opt for both with the Coronation Chicken Loaded Potato Skins (HK$98), perfect for sharing.

Check out the full Wimbledon’s Championship schedule here.

When: July 3 - 16

Where: Staunton’s, G/F & 1/F, 10-12 Staunton Street, SoHo, Hong Kong

How much: Prices vary

8. WOW Burger Launch Party at BaseHall 01

Plant-based burger brand WOW Burger is celebrating the opening of their first brick-and-mortar store in the city with an evening of their delicious signature delights accompanied by lively music. Get ready to indulge in our WOW sliders and a variety of delectable vegetarian sides.

Contributing to the festive atmosphere, live DJs will spin upbeat tracks to get you moving and your heart pumping. Additionally, appearances from Codigo Tequila and Young Master Brewery are sure to satisfy your thirst for great drinks and equally fantastic fun. Grab your free ticket to RSVP.

When: 6 PM – 9 PM, July 8

Where: BaseHall 01, LG/F, Jardine House, 1 Connaught Place, Central, Hong Kong

How much: Sign up here, Free entry

9 . Mexican Cooking Workshop - Te Quiero Mucho x Normex Group in Central

In collaboration with Hong Kong’s MexCham, Te Quiero Mucho is presenting a hands-on culinary experience that reveals the art of creating the most authentic salsas and tacos al Pastor. This exclusive event, led by a top chef, features original Mexican products from the Normex Group.

Not only will you gain valuable skills in the kitchen, but you'll also learn about the rich history behind Mexican cuisine. As you cook and savour your freshly made tacos, expert guides will share captivating insights into the origins and cultural significance of each dish. Furthermore, participants will receive seasoned meat to take home and cook at their leisure, enabling you to impress your friends and family with your newfound culinary prowess. And what's a cooking class without some libation? Beer and house wine are included in the package, so you can sip and socialize with other foodies as you cook and learn.

When: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM, July 6

Where: Te Quiero Mucho, 286 Queen's Road Central, Central, Hong Kong

How much: Buy tickets here, HK$475

10. All Day Buffet Dining at Regent Hong Kong in Tsim Sha Tsui

Located at the edge of Victoria Harbour in the newly renovated Regent Hong Kong, the Harbourside restaurant offers an international buffet experience that transports you to the heart of local markets around the world. Guests can enjoy a diverse array of Asian and Western cuisine in a free-to-graze buffet setting for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with optional free-flow beverage packages for added indulgence.

Malaysia-born Head Chef Nicholas Chan leads the kitchen with his unique culinary flair, and is accompanied by Executive Pastry Chef Andy Yeung, who is renowned for his modern, creative confections. Apart from fresh chilled seafood and artisanal sushi, be sure to look out for freshly made dim sum, a stunning selection of pastries, signature dishes from across the world, and more.

When: Multiple Seatings, Daily (subject to change, click here for details)

Where: Harbourside, G/F, Regent Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Road, Kowloon

How much: Book here, Starting from HK$398 (breakfast) / $528 (lunch) / HK$888 (dinner)