G & T Cocktail Bar
UG/F Shama Place, 30 Hollywood Road, Central
Tel: 2481 3588
this small cocktail bar, hidden up the stairs from the French American Bistro under the Shelley Street escalator, has an identity problem. British design elements - think Union Jacks and "Keep Calm and Carry On" signs - stand out against mismatched and modern decor that seem better suited to a hotel lobby bar. It was quiet on the Tuesday evening we visited but the people watching along Hollywood Road was excellent. It's in a great spot.
the bar is proud of its gin and tonics so I decided to try a few of them, while my friend explored the cocktail selection. My first gin and tonic (HK$108), made with Sipsmith gin and Fever Tree Tonic, was powerfully herbaceous and served with a rosemary sprig as a garnish. It was a refreshing, sophisticated and delicious tipple. My second, made with Blackwood's gin (HK$130) was even better. Crisp, sleek and clean, it has our vote for the best gin and tonic in Hong Kong. My friend's cocktails started poorly with the Ginox (HK$88), which tasted overpoweringly of coriander and was off-puttingly savoury. Her second choice, the Aviation (HK$108) was a greater success: a clean and competent take on the classic cocktail.
with more than 80 different kinds from around the world, this is the place for gin lovers. But the weekday atmosphere was lacking. Maybe it's worth a visit on a weekend.