What’s On HKG: Best Things to See, Do, Eat, Drink on Sept. 11 – 17, 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. #ddhk Vivid Tsuen Wan

Local design innovation project, Design District Hong Kong (#ddHK), re-emerges this year with 'Vivid Tsuen Wan,’ drenching the eponymous neighbourhood in colours and spectacle. Seven art installations, conceived by a blend of global and local artists, dot the district. These masterpieces serve as perfect photo spots while encapsulating Tsuen Wan’s diverse charm.

Highlights include 'Prismatic' by Craig & Karl, transforming Sai Lau Kok Garden into a Tsuen Wan tapestry. Andy Rementer’s giant whale at Tsuen Wan Park offers a marine fantasy, while 'Closely Knitted' on Tai Ho Road Footbridge celebrates the region's textile legacy. For those navigating the district, #ddHK provides a comprehensive walking map, guiding visitors to each installation and significant landmarks, click here to get the full low-down on the project.

When: Now to Sept. 14

Where: Tsuen Wan, New Territories

How much: Free entry

2. ‘See You in Central Market’ Festival

Celebrating its 85th opening year and the second anniversary of its revival, Central Market has been celebrating its dynamic history with its 'See You in Central Market’ summer festival. Visitors will be dazzled by nostalgic light installations that bridge the city's past and present at the Market OASIS, and turn back time admiring toy brick replicas of Hong Kong’s iconic historic buildings.

On Sept. 16, get moving to the Sports Carnival and cheer on as Sports luminaries like Li Hui, Lee Chun Ho, and Jacqueline So make an appearance. Closely following is the final round of the 'Voice of Central’ singing competition, with 500 contenders in its preliminary round. On Sept. 17, 40 contestants will vie for the top spot. Winners from 'Voice of Central’ have the chance to perform at a charity concert at The Fringe Club and take part in an artist development program.

When: Now until Sept. 17

Where: Central Market, 93 Queen's Road Central, Central, Hong Kong

How much: Free entry

3. Sweaty Betty Wellness Breakfast Club at Kerry Hotel

Experience a balance of rejuvenation and relaxation at Kerry Hotel with a weekend of wellness hosted by Sweaty Betty. Begin with a 60-minute yoga or fitness session, followed by a nutritious breakfast, all participants will also receive a towel and accompanying Sweaty Betty HK$500 shopping voucher for a cute new kit!

This Sept. 17 session introduces Chakra Balancing Yoga with Essential Oil, directed by Sally Tse, a Sweaty Betty Ambassador. This bilingual class focuses on aligning energy points, heightened by the soothing tones of singing bowls during yoga nidra meditation.

4. Red Bull Dance Your Style at HK Cultural Centre in Tsim Sha Tsui

Experience an evening of exhilarating dance-offs at Red Bull Dance Your Style Hong Kong. Sixteen of the city's finest dancers will go toe-to-toe, showcasing an array of dance styles from waacking to hip-hop, popping to locking. To ramp up the adrenaline rush even more, the audience will be the judging panel to decide the winner of each face-off and crown the ultimate Red Bull Dance Your Style Hong Kong Champion.

5. Better with Beer: HK’s Ultimate Craft Beer Festival at Central Harbourfront

'Better With Beer’ is Hong Kong's premier craft brewing festival, spotlighting the city's vibrant craft beer scene. Over the two days, attendees can explore over 150 beers from more than 20 celebrated breweries and distributors, with names like Black Kite, Brewdog, Carbon Brews, Gweilo, Young Master Brewery, and many more.

But it's not just about the brews. The festival also offers live music, a diverse food range, fun outdoor games, and multiple four-hour sessions for attendees to immerse themselves in. Those seeking an unlimited tasting experience will be delighted to know free-flow tickets are up for grabs. All participants must be 18 years old or above to attend.

6. Champagne Grower Talk's Artisan Champagne Discoveries on the Harbour at The Regent

Regent Hong Kong is introducing an exclusive series that offers a deep dive into the world of artisan Champagne. Alongside the hotel's expert sommeliers and visiting winemakers, attendees will embark on an educational journey, tasting boutique Champagnes and learning the stories behind these unique labels.

Sample exquisite vintages and revel in the stunning views of Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong Island skyline. As you sip and learn, a curated selection of canapés will complement the Champagne, elevating the experience.

7. Back to Work Cheers! With Italian Chamber of Commerce at ICC

Join the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong and Macao for a special celebration! The group is hosting a Welcome Back Cocktail and Office Warming event at their brand new ICC Office in Sheung Wan, christening their new modern space with some clinks and pours.

The gathering serves as a fantastic opportunity to reconnect with peers, meet new faces, and revel in the company of old friends. Treat yourself to delightful Ferrarini canapés and raise a toast with a crisp beer or a fine wine.

8. F&B Breakfast Club with Nate Green from REX Wine & Grill and KILO Steakhouse

The F&B Breakfast Club is excited to welcome the esteemed Chef Nathan Green for their September session. Known for his culinary genius behind successful venues like REX Wine & Grill and KILO Steakhouse, Chef Green's illustrious career has spanned prominent restaurants in London and Hong Kong, including establishments like 22 Ships, Rhoda, and the iconic Henry at the Rosewood Hotel.

Beyond his exceptional skills, Chef Green is cherished for his genuine warmth and sumptuous comfort dishes, earning him a dedicated fan base. This isn't just another breakfast meet-up, but also a rare chance to delve into the experiences and wisdom of a chef who's shaped the Hong Kong F&B scene.

9. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal at Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong

Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, steered by culinary genius Heston Blumenthal OBE, is renowned for its innovative edge. Marking its 60th anniversary, Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong is hosting a culinary extravaganza spotlighting the two-Michelin-starred restaurant. Led by Chef Director Deiniol Pritchard, the event will celebrate Heston Blumenthal’s boundary-pushing British gastronomy.

On offer are diverse menus, with signature dishes including the inventive Meat Fruit, the historical Beef Royale, and the unique Brown Bread Ice-cream, alongside many more delectable surprises to come.

10. Chef Bobby Chinn: A Culinary Journey to Egypt

Gear up for an epic culinary experience, as Chinese-Egyptian chef Bobby Chinn headlines the inaugural Egyptian Food Festival in Hong Kong this week! The event is comprised of a specially curated tasting dinner menu at a Hung Hom dining room, as well as an exclusive cooking class led by none other than celebrity Chef Bobby himself.

Attendees to the special dinner will enjoy a curated five-course menu crafted by Chef Bobby that traverses the expanse of Egyptian cuisine, from ancient royal recipes to popular Cairo market dishes. Highlights include Grapes Wrapped with Goat Cheese and Pistachios, and Foie Gras Terrine with Fresh Figs – inspired by his acclaimed cookbook "Wild Wild East," featuring a poignant foreword by the late Anthony Bourdain.