In a fast-paced city like Hong Kong, it’s hard to keep up with what’s new. In this latest video from Hong Kong, we explore five hidden locations that visitors often miss, but are true gems.
First up on our list of places to see is Fu Lu Shou, a quirky Chinese eatery and bar, situated on Hollywood Road, Central. To get inside, you’ll need to plan in advance in order to find the door and get the four-digit security code off the company’s Facebook page. Once there, it’s just a short ride on the lift to the top floor, where you’ll be greeted by statues of the three gods that Fu Lu Shou is named after. The bar’s signature cocktails have been inspired by traditional Chinese ingredients, such as Haam Ling Chut made with Salted Lemon and preserved Mandarin, but the food menu centers on the idea of traditional Chinese cuisine that the public expect outside of China, appealing to the nostalgia of those from Western countries.
Next up is Kennedy Town. Formerly a residential suburb, the district has become the new ‘in’ place for dining and entertainment. It’s full of hip new restaurants and bars that have all moved to the area for the recently opened MTR (subway) expansion.
If you want to be part of the foodie revolution in Hong Kong, head to the French restaurant, Bistronomique, which offers fine dining with a great view of the harbor. Another choice is a funky fusion restaurant, Missy Ho’s, hidden away nearer to the MTR station for contemporary Japanese fusion cuisine.
Keeping west on Hong Kong Island, is the district of Sai Ying Pun. This area has also seen new restaurants and bars open. One we recommend is Ping Pong 129 Ginoteria. Once you enter the building, you just walk down a short staircase and arrive into a vast open space that once housed a Ping Pong warehouse.
Behind the bar, bartenders chisel large cubes of ice for their signature Gin and Tonics, served in the traditional Spanish chalice. Although the atmosphere is electric, the speakeasy also allows guests to sit and relax.
Next on the list is the Police Married Quarters, now known simply as PMQ. Back in 1951, this large space was once home to the families of the Hong Kong Police, and has now been converted into a cultural hub for artists, designers and restaurateurs.
A few highlights of the space include Kapok, a shop with a focus on Hong Kong designers specializing in accessories, contemporary fine arts gallery Art Projects, and UK chef, Jason Atherton’s third restaurant in Hong Kong, Aberdeen Street Social.
The final place on our list can be found while strolling down the quiet side street of Pound Lane in Sheung Wan. You’ll come across a large window display of wooden stamps underneath the sign Mr. Ming’s Stamp Shop, giving no clue that this is the hip speakeasy restaurant of the moment, Mrs. Pound.
You’ll find the secret switch to open the door and enter the neon-lit restaurant, filled with pictures of the fictional character Mrs. Pound.
The unique restaurant serves simple, but well executed dishes of Asian cuisine, including Bulgogi Pork Belly Skewers and Sriracha Street corn. But the cocktails have also received wide praise, in particular their signature, classic negroni served in a tea cup, just how the fictional Mrs. Pound used to drink it.
If You Go
For more information on Hong Kong, visit www.discoverhongkong.com
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