The rise of neighbourhood bars in Hong Kong, from Honky Tonks Tavern and The Pontiac to Bar Leone
Asia's bar scene . In 2011, Ozone opened, setting a record as the highest bar in the world, and 12 months later came the launch of Quinary, Hong Kong's
ground zero for molecular mixology . In the years that followed, many other concepts specialising in high-end service and a more 'scientific' approach to bartending started to crowd the streets of Central – the likes of The Old Man, Argo and Artifact to name but a few. When The Old Man was ranked Asia's best bar in 2019, molecular mixology was well and truly king in Hong Kong.
The staff at Honky Tonks Tavern. Photo: Handout
Trends come and go, though, and in recent years there has been a shift in the bar scene, with guests opting for concepts positioning themselves as neighbourhood bars, rather than hotel-based venues and other high-end spots. This movement was solidified at Asia's 50 Best Bar Awards last year, which
crowned Bar Leone first place in Asia , and second on the World's Best Bars list for 2024.
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While there is more than enough room in the city for every kind of concept, we asked three bartenders and owners across the city – Honky Tonks Tavern's Jake Erder, The Pontiac's Jen Queen and Bar Leone's Lorenzo Antinori – for their take on this trend, and why Hong Kong might be steering towards a more casual beverage experience.
Outside Honky Tonks Tavern for their fourth-anniversary celebration in 2024. Photo: Handout
'If you look around Honky, you'll find a museum of the American beverage world,' says Erder. 'Over the years, we've sourced vintage artworks, bottles, cans and other memorabilia from different eras. After working here for two years I still find little treasures as we are forever changing the decor.'
For Erder, the main appeal of the city's neighbourhood bars is their comforting vibe. This is crucial as before a customer even opens the menu, the atmosphere, decor and overall feel of a bar are the first noticeable elements. Whether someone is blown away by the incredible interior design or has an irresistible urge to sing along to the playlist, a good atmosphere makes passers-by curious and keen to step inside.
Antonio Lai, the award-winning Hong Kong mixologist behind bars like Quinary, Origin and The Envoy. Photo: Handout
Some of Hong Kong's fancier bars can feel a little intimidating to the casual visitor. Upon entering Honky Tonks Tavern though, guests are immediately welcomed into a cosy and nostalgic space. The twinkling lights and wooden features give the bar a homely feel that guests can easily relax into.
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