A Connoisseur’s Guide to Wine in Hong Kong
This article is the beginning of a series of wine guides covering cities worldwide. Our first three editions will focus on the cities where our three co-founders currently reside.
Hong Kong stands out as a renowned global hub for fine dining, luxurious experiences, and a rich wine culture. The city's vibrant cosmopolitan ambiance showcases a diverse range of wine bars, restaurants, and exclusive wine cellars that cater to both seasoned connoisseurs and curious enthusiasts. In the ever-evolving landscape of Hong Kong, where restaurants open and close rapidly, the wine scene remains dynamic and exciting.
Whether your palate craves an exquisite Bordeaux, a rare Burgundy, or an award-winning New World wine, Hong Kong presents a plethora of opportunities to savor prestigious vintages in elegant settings. Dive into our guide to discover the finest spots for enjoying prestigious wines in Hong Kong.
1. Amber at The Landmark Mandarin Oriental
Image Courtesy of Mandarin Oriental
Amber, a two-Michelin-starred fine dining establishment, is not only renowned for its inventive French cuisine but also for its impeccable wine selection. The restaurant's sommelier curates an extensive list of over 1,100 labels from around the world, with a particular focus on prestigious Old World wines. Amber is the perfect spot to pair a Grand Cru Burgundy or a First Growth Bordeaux with their delicately crafted dishes.
2. Club Bâtard
Courtesy of Club Batard
Located in Sai Ying Pun, Club Bâtard has quickly become one of the hottest spots for wine lovers in Hong Kong. This cozy, yet stylish wine bar and restaurant is the brainchild of the team behind Bâtard, the celebrated French bistro. Club Bâtard features an extensive wine list with a strong focus on Burgundy—its namesake region—and other prestigious Old World labels. The venue balances a relaxed atmosphere with an upscale wine experience, making it perfect for both casual sippers and seasoned connoisseurs.
3. The American Club
For those who have access, The American Club is one of Hong Kong’s most exclusive spots to enjoy prestigious wines. With its stunning views of the city skyline and the harbor, the club offers an impressive wine list that includes iconic Old World vintages and celebrated New World labels. Whether you're dining at The Eagle’s Nest or relaxing at The Grill Room, the club’s curated wine selection is the perfect complement to their world-class cuisine.
4. Arcane
Courtesy Arcane HK
Nestled in the heart of Central, Arcane is an intimate Michelin-starred restaurant that combines seasonal European cuisine with a thoughtfully curated wine list. Their wine program focuses on boutique producers and iconic labels, offering an excellent balance between Old World elegance and New World innovation.
5. Crown Wine Cellars
For a more exclusive and private wine experience, Crown Wine Cellars is one of the most prestigious wine venues in Hong Kong. Located in a historic WWII military bunker in Shouson Hill, this members-only club combines heritage with luxury. Crown Wine Cellars is known for its exceptional wine storage facilities and its private dining rooms, where members can enjoy treasured bottles from their own collections or selections from the cellar’s curated list.
6. Somm at The Landmark Mandarin Oriental
Courtesy Somm Landmark Mandarin Oriental
Another gem in The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, Somm is a haven for wine enthusiasts. Offering over 1,600 labels from 23 countries, Somm specializes in fine and rare wines, including hard-to-find vintages and magnum bottles. With a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere, Somm is perfect for those looking to explore prestigious wines in a more casual setting.
7. The Flying Winemaker
For a more interactive and educational wine experience, The Flying Winemaker offers wine tastings, workshops, and events. Located in Central, this wine bar and retail space is perfect for those looking to deepen their knowledge of prestigious wines while enjoying a laid-back atmosphere. Their carefully curated wine list features iconic labels alongside hidden gems from boutique vineyards.
8. Watson’s Wine
For those who prefer a more casual yet equally prestigious wine experience, Watson’s Wine is a top choice. With multiple locations across Hong Kong, this wine retailer also doubles as a wine bar, offering tastings of some of the world’s most sought-after wines. Their knowledgeable staff can guide you through their impressive collection, which includes everything from vintage Champagne to iconic Bordeaux.
9. 8½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana
Courtesy Lai Sun Dining
A perennial favorite for fine dining and wine, this three-Michelin-starred Italian restaurant in Central boasts one of the finest wine lists in Hong Kong. The sommelier team at 8½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana curates an impressive selection of Italian wines, alongside prestigious French and New World labels.
10. Corks
Courtesy @corks.hk
Tucked away in the vibrant neighborhood of Sheung Wan, Corks is a hidden gem for wine lovers seeking a cozy and budget-friendly wine experience. This unpretentious wine bar offers a curated selection of quality wines at affordable prices, making it a favorite among locals and expats alike. Whether you're looking to enjoy a glass of Merlot or explore lesser-known varietals, Corks provides a welcoming atmosphere for casual sipping and socializing.