With eight local bars having made their way onto Asia’s 50 Best Bars list in 2023, it’s no secret that Hong Kong’s drink scene is thriving and shows no signs of slowing down. But what if you want to make the most of the exciting nightlife while staying sober?
We’ve scoured the city to bring you the best spots for a delicious booze-free beverage. Now, you can go all out on Friday night and wake up bright-eyed and bushy-tailed on Saturday morning.
With outposts in Soho and Causeway Bay, Little Bao is a popular pick for a casual date night or a family hang. While the eatery might be best known for its fluffy buns and creative take on Hong Kong comfort food, you can spice up your next visit by checking out the drinks on offer. We recommend ordering the yuzu maple soda (which consists of maple syrup, yuzu, soda, shiso and sea salt) as well as a chrysanthemum lemonade – the perfect duo to represent Canadian-born, Hong Kong-based chef and owner May Chow.
Little Bao: 1-3 Shin Hing Street, Central, 2818 1280
Little Bao Diner: 9 Kingston Street, Causeway Bay, 2555 0600
New kid on the block, the Sai Ying Pun-based House of Culture is helmed by executive chef Gavin Chin, former head chef at Brut. Its selection of playful cocktails and laidback wines from all over Australia perfectly complement the food menu. For a non-alcoholic option that is equal parts smoky and refreshing, order the Culture Lemonade, which combines lemon and lime oleo-saccharum with rosemary soda, topped with a sprig of flamed rosemary.
House of Culture, G/F, Kenbo Commercial Building, 335-339 Queen's Road West, Sai Ying Pun, 2886 9689
Located on the historic Pottinger Street, The Envoy is spread across a cosy indoor area and breezy outdoor terrace. In addition to its award-winning cocktails, you’ll also discover mocktails with influences from across Asia. For something refreshing, look to Morning Dew, which comprises green tea, jasmine tea and pandan-flavoured homemade syrup. Also worth trying is Fresh Water, crafted with elderflower cordial, thyme-flavoured homemade syrup, yuzu juice and soda water. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, don’t miss Dinosaur Roar, which features a Milo ice ball, secret-recipe malted chocolate milk and a heap of Milo powder.
The Envoy, 3/F, The Pottinger Hong Kong, 74 Queen's Road Central, Central, 2169 3311
The Amalfi Coast-inspired artisan pizza bar boasts two varying locations. Its beachside locale at Repulse Bay stays true to its namesake, while its Soho branch aims to bring a slice of relaxation to the city hub. Dance the night away while sipping on alcohol-free tropical drinks like the Peach Iced Tea – a fusion of peach nectar, lemon, simple syrup and ceylon tea. Summer Punch is a blend of cranberry juice, passion fruit, raspberry, lemon juice, passionfruit syrup and ginger ale; while the virgin Mojito combines lime juice, mint, brown sugar and soda for a refreshing taste.
Amalfitana Central: Shops D&E, G/F, Yu Yuet Lai Building, 43-55 Wyndham Street, Central, 2688 2001
Amalfitana Repulse: The Pulse, G/F, Shop 105, 28 Beach Road, Repulse Bay, 2388 7787
Delivering modern Mediterranean cuisine in the heart of Central, Quiero Más (which means “I want more” in Spanish), is a contemporary dining concept of a neighbourhood tapas bar. Transport yourself to a beachside retreat on their rooftop with non-alcoholic offerings, including a take on a virgin piña colada that comprises coconut milk, pineapple juice and milk cream. The virgin sangria consists of grape juice, watermelon, green apple, orange, fresh mint and sparkling water, while their virgin G&T is made with Dry London Spirit from non-alcoholic spirit brand Lyre’s , as well as tonic water, lemon and juniper berries.
Quiero Mas, M88, 20/F, 2-8 Wellington Street, Central, 2383 0268
The highlight of all-day dining at The Lobby Lounge is undoubtably the mesmerising panoramic views of Victoria Harbour. In the evening, watch the skyline come alive in a blaze of colours and lights with a drink in hand. For an alcohol-free cocktail that still offers a kick, opt for the Delta Spice Island, which is formulated with lime, spiced pear syrup and ginger beer. Alternatively, complex low-alcohol aperitifs – such as the Rum Imperial, which is made with plantation pineapple rum, Luxardo apricot and spicy ginger beer – are on offer to complement your meal.
The Lobby Lounge, Lobby Floor, Regent Hong Kong, 18 Salisbury Road, Kowloon, 2313 2313
A warm environment filled with plants and artwork, this three-storey restaurant in Quarry Bay is the ideal place for some post-work tipples with your colleagues. On the menu, you'll find dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, craft beer, fine wines and hand-crafted artisanal cocktails. Itching to order a round of drinks during lunch? Non-alcoholic versions of signature cocktails make that possible. The aptly named Perfect Acquaintance is smooth and citrusy, formulated with yuzu, camellia syrup, green bell pepper, shiso bitters and egg white.
Mr & Mrs Fox, 23 Tong Chong Street, Quarry Bay, 2697 8500