Seven of the coolest outdoor lounges in Hong Kong
You don't have to shiver in air-conditioned bars and restaurants to escape the summer swelter. Hong Kong has a number of outdoor lounges where you can kick back with a cool drink
Shelter Italian Bar & Restaurant
As you step through its entrance inside the shopping mall, Shelter Italian Bar & Restaurant may seem like just another eatery. But you will find the Italian establishment, decked out in wood, wicker chairs, and lots of greenery, is actually the perfect urban sanctuary. The spacious venue spills out onto an alfresco patio - the covered seating has comfy, plush cushions, but the uncovered lounge is where most prefer to linger. The restaurant offers hearty Italian staples with a focus on organic produce and locally sourced ingredients.
718-719, 7/F Hysan Place, 500 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay, tel: 2778 8398
Jamie's Italian TST
While Jamie's Italian in Causeway Bay is about the same size as its newest location across the pond, the Tsim Sha Tsui spot has an additional outdoor lounge - a 1,500 sq ft terrace - that's perfect for chilling this summer. The couches are so inviting, customers may just want to curl up for a nap. At the time of writing, the restaurant was getting some fans ready to keep things cool, and with some drinks and snacks you'll be sorted.
Shop 412, Level 4, Ocean Centre, Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, tel: 3758 3333
Duddell's
Dining at Duddell's feels like a formal occasion with artworks on the walls, stylish interior and excellent Chinese dishes. However, wander outside on the terrace and there's a completely different vibe that feels more bohemian chic than sophisticated taste. The setting is more like a garden party, with lots of potted trees and plants, and outdoor furniture. Have the mixologists prepare a drink for you as you relax in this laid-back venue in the heart of Central.
3/F, Shanghai Tang Mansion, 1 Duddell Street, Central, tel: 2525 9191
Fu Lu Shou
First things first: unless you are a locksmith, always call Fu Lu Shou in advance to get the building's weekly-changing door code to get to this rooftop. Other than the omnipresent Chinese gods, the interior is decorated with a mahjong-lined tabletop at the bar and a mural that reads "Eat, Drink, and be Prosperous". Follow the mantra and down some of their funky cocktails and nostalgic Chinatown-inspired dishes. It's a great place to chill out, thanks to the hanging cocoon chairs and graffiti mural - of the bearded trio, of course.
7/F, 31 Hollywood Road, Central, tel: 2336 8812
Wooloomooloo Prime
Who doesn't enjoy a view, especially when you're up on the 28th floor? Wooloomooloo in the relatively new Soundwill Plaza II - Midtown has a large outdoor space with a panoramic view of Causeway Bay and beyond. Seating about 30 to 50 people, it's the perfect sunset hangout, selling wines by the glass and creative cocktails for happy hour.
Level 27 & 28, Soundwill Plaza II — Midtown, 1 Tang Lung Street, Causeway Bay, tel: 2771 3600
Koh Thai
Tucked away in J-Senses, a revitalised historical building that hip restaurants and lifestyle stores now call home, Koh Thai has remained a favourite among spice lovers. Guests are greeted by cheery Buddha statues on their way up to the first floor podium, where they will be greeted by an ambience resembling a quick Thai retreat. Most of the restaurant is open-air and overlooks the open kitchen. Make yourself comfortable at one of the shady tables, before enjoying a cool drink and dishes such as pomelo salad and salmon in yellow curry.
Shop 9, 1/F J-Senses, 60 Johnston Road, Wan Chai, tel: 3160 8535
Seasons by Olivier Elzer
This fine dining French restaurant gets rave reviews for its food, and apparently there's over a month-long waiting list to sample the afternoon tea. However, you can rest your heels in the stylish outdoor hideout nestled in Causeway Bay without the hassle. The restaurant has four sections, according to the seasons, so it's quite obvious the outdoor area is for summer. Hang out on the patio with a flute of champagne and scrumptious nibbles from Oliver Elzer's kitchen.
Shop 308, 3/F, Phase 2, Lee Garden, 2-38 Yun Ping Road, Causeway Bay, tel: 2505 6228
