Zuma
Designer Noriyoshi Muramatsu of Studio Glitt collaborated with Tokyo design firm Super Potato to create this stunning, split-level masterpiece, which is as much about art as it is about the 40-plus varieties of sake on offer. With an impressive spiral staircase connecting both levels, Zuma gives a spacious modern twist to Japanese izakayas – expect sumptuous sofas upstairs and plenty of minimalist seating below. If you’ve been sidetracked by the sake bar for most of the night, don’t forget Zuma has a wine cellar boasting over 2,000 bottles, including ten vintage vinos by the glass.
Level 5 & 6, The Landmark, Central, 3657-6388
OPIA
Part of Philippe Starck-designed boutique hotel JIA, Opia is as visionary as its name suggests (Greek for “vision”). Designed by the award-winning André Fu of architectural firm AFSO, Opia is based on a concept of old Shanghai supper clubs – opium beds included. The judicious use of mirrors throughout the space cleverly opens it up without compromising any of its seductive cool, while a calming pond subtly divides the dining and lounge areas. A trip to the bar is essential, not just for the exotic cocktails, but to experience the sculptured ceiling above it. And keep an eye out for the chandelier on your way out, it will be the last beautiful thing you’ll see before being back onto the gritty back streets of Causeway Bay.
1/F, JIA Hong Kong, 1-5 Irving St., Causeway Bay, 3196-9100
MO BAR
A trip to MO bar is worth it for the incredible interior alone. The renowned Adam Tihany, responsible for last year’s revamp, has created a dramatically chic space that abounds with textures, from glass, stone, mosaic, wood, leather to velvet. Tihany accredits his inspiration to Hong Kong’s international and mobile lifestyle, represented in glass water walls and an abstract boat-like feature. As if this attention to detail isn’t thrilling enough, the bar’s earthy tones are crowned with a magnificent red circle of light, a giant “O” meant to convey the Chinese concepts of unity and shared experience. The sprawling wine list and slick cocktails only serve to remind you that MO Bar drips with class.
The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, 15 Queen’s Road Central, The Landmark, Central, 2132-0077.