Seven spots to escape the Rugby Sevens in Hong Kong this weekend

When it comes to the Rugby Sevens, there are two types of people: those who see nothing wrong with putting on a gorilla suit and drinking themselves silly in the south stand, and those who just want to hide under a blanket and wait until it all goes away.

If you belong to the latter group and are dreading the arrival of our annual rugby fever, don’t despair – here are seven places where you can escape the madness.

Mavericks

The “surf/skate shack” by the beach at Pui O puts an emphasis on serving foods that are seasonal and natural. In addition to working with a local organic food provider, it has its own plot of organic farmland in the wetland behind the beach – farmland that supplies the kitchen. Grab a cocktail and hopefully you’ll catch one of Pui O’s fantastic sunsets.

Pui O Beach, Lantau. Tel: 5662 8552

Tikitiki Bowling Bar

Entering Tikitiki is a surreal experience: it’s a vast, comfortable space decked out in a rustic, beachcomber vibe with two main bar areas, a terrace and generous seating for bowlers. Cocktails are the draw and include four signatures, half a dozen “bubbles”, and classics – perfect fuel to get ready for some sporting action that doesn’t involve rugby.

4/F Centro, 1A Chui Tong Road, Sai Kung. Tel: 2657 8488

Black Sheep

Tucked away in the beachside village of Shek O is the charming Black Sheep, which has been refuelling beachgoers for years with Mediterranean-inspired fare and its very popular pizza. Some say its chocolate mousse is the best in Hong Kong – made all the sweeter by the lack of rugby fans talking loudly about the day’s action.

330 Shek O Village. Tel: 2809 2021

Casa

Apart from its lack of TV screens showing the matches, Casa in Sai Kung is worth a visit for its tapas and fresh juices, which are popular with locals for their reasonable prices. The attractive prices also extend to its wine, with an extensive selection offered by the glass, and there’s a great selection of local craft brews for the beer heads.

Sui Yat Building, 1 Sai Kung Hoi Pong Square, Sai Kung. Tel: 2440 9288

One-thirtyone

This intimate yet refined restaurant – nestled in Shap Sze Heung with a waterfront view of Three Fathoms Cove – offers a truly leisurely experience. Ingredients are sourced from the restaurant’s own herbal garden and a nearby organic farm when possible. And even better is the fact that it’s about as far from Hong Kong Stadium as it’s possible to get.

131 Tseng Tau Village, Shap Sze Heung, Sai Kung. Tel: 2791 2684

Cheung Chau Windsurfing Centre & Outdoor Cafe

The food may be pretty basic, but the beer is cold and cheap at this beachside cafe on Cheung Chau – plus you can gaze at the blinking lights of Hong Kong Island over the water safe in the knowledge that you are out of harm’s way. And if the sun comes out, you can even rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard for some sporting fun that doesn’t involve a rugby ball.

1 Hak Pai Rd, Cheung Chau. Tel: 2981 8316

Bombay Bar & Restaurant

Indian food goes with rugby fans like naan goes with garlic, so it’s best to avoid Hong Kong Island’s Indian eateries if you want to enjoy your curry in peace. This newly opened Indian restaurant in Yung Shue Wan, Lamma, is proving popular with locals – and as word is only just getting out about its mouthwatering dishes, you’re unlikely to be disturbed.

6 Back Street, Yung Shue Wan, Lamma. Tel: 2982 0095