Your ultimate guide to Hong Kong

If you’ve ever been out and felt the urge to nick a glass, then you’ll agree with us: we love when bars have cute drinking vessels! It tracks that Bar Leone, whose founder Lorenzo Antinori is all about curating the best hospitality experiences, has now upgraded things at the newly crowned third best bar in Asia even further with a fresh range of glassware. Created in collaboration with Swedish glassware house Bobo, the Popolare Collection (or should we say Bobolare Collection?) consists of four brand-new glass designs: the Highball, the Spritz, the Rock, and the Martini. Just like Bar Leone itself, there’s nothing overtly fancy here, just a well-designed sense of ease and simplicity that makes you like it immediately.  Photograph: Courtesy Bar LeoneBar Leone Bobo glassware Each glass is uncomplicated in its elegance, with a subtle flare at the rim to fit over thirsty lips. Our favourite is the Highball glass with its short, sturdy stem. This four-piece collection of professional-grade glassware was designed to withstand the hectic, high-volume environment of bars, but it can just as easily serve within households for years to come. The Popolare Collection is now being used in Bar Leone, complementing their new cocktails perfectly. Retailers, hospitality partners, or even customers and fans interested in these glasses can register their interest with the bar staff or via hello@bobo.store. There isn’t a firm date on the official release yet, but it’s likely to be around autumn this year. Stay in the loop: Sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: La Terrace by Louise revamps weekdays in Central with live music and kebab nights Bubble Planet Hong Kong has officially closed less than a month after opening Canto Jade opens in Tai Koo with old-school dim sum carts and a fresh take on Cantonese dining

La Terrace by Louise is launching a new weekly lineup at PMQ this season. The French bistro, led by executive chef Loïc Portalier, is rolling out daily happenings designed to keep locals well fed and watered from Monday through Friday. Things kick off at the start of the week with Sip & Social, running every Monday and Tuesday between July and September. Head sommelier Titouan Jounier has put together a rotating selection of bottles for $450, and to sweeten the deal, the first bottle ordered per table comes with a complimentary charcuterie board. By Wednesday, things pick up with Soulful Live Acoustic Wednesdays, where a live band takes over the bar from 6.45pm to 10pm while guests work their way through the à la carte or set menus. Photograph: Courtesy La Terrace by LouiseSet lunch at La Terrace by Louise Daytime diners get their own upgrade on Thursdays and Fridays with a new three-course set lunch ($428) served between 12pm and 3pm, featuring a starter, the restaurant’s signature half roasted yellow chicken, and a dessert. Labelling a $400-plus mid-week lunch as budget-friendly is admittedly a fine example of Central economics, but given what is on the plate, it is hard to hold a grudge. Those dropping in for dinner can opt for the new four-course set menu, available every evening for $588 per guest. Starters include options like pâté en croûte or yellow tuna, followed by mains such as Australian Black Angus ribeye, Scottish wild salmon, or the half roasted yellow chicken for sharing. Finally, the meal rounds off with desserts like Amalfi lemon givré, caramelised apple Tarte Tatin, or a classic Paris Brest. Photograph: Courtesy La Terrace by LouiseKebab & Wine Night at La Terrace by Louise The terrace is also bringing back its Kebab & Wine Nights on August 20, October 8, and December 17 from 6pm. Priced at $208 per guest, the pop-up evening will be serving up succulent chicken kebabs loaded with sauce blanche, harissa, salad, tomatoes, and onions, alongside fries and a coconut soft serve with lime sorbet. A range of Burgundy wines by the glass and bottle will also be available for your pickings. To book a spot or check out the full schedule, head over to the La Terrace by Louise website. Stay in the loop: Sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Bubble Planet Hong Kong has officially closed less than a month after opening Canto Jade opens in Tai Koo with old-school dim sum carts and a fresh take on Cantonese dining New family-style Italian restaurant Ninetta opens in the heart of Central

Live in Hong Kong long enough, and you eventually become completely immune to the sting of the word ‘closure’. Still, even by our local standards, few exits have been quite as swift as this one. Less than a month after transforming Kai Tak Cruise Terminal into a pastel-tinted wonderland, Bubble Planet Hong Kong has officially shut down for good.   Photograph: Courtesy Exhibition HubBubble Planet Hong Kong   The sprawling 27,000-sq-ft exhibition landed in the city on June 29, featuring 11 themed rooms filled with giant balloon pits, interactive installations, VR experiences, inflatables, and visual illusions. Originally slated to run throughout the summer, the globe-trotting attraction was heavily promoted as one of the summer’s marquee family destinations. However, the experience quickly hit a rough patch. Shortly after opening, several parents voiced concerns over hidden hazards, citing injuries to children caused by hard structural bases hidden beneath balloons, sharp exposed edges, and uneven flooring in dimly lit areas. After a string of reported injuries, the organisers briefly hit pause earlier in July to install extra protective padding, fix the flooring, and add warning signs, promising to close every Tuesday and Wednesday for “ongoing maintenance and security improvements”. Photograph: Screen shot of bubbleplanethongkong.comBubble Planet Hong Kong makes closure announcement on official website Unfortunately, the mid-week tune-ups were not enough to save the day. On July 29, an official statement published on the event’s website confirmed that the exhibition had permanently closed its doors as of July 28, citing “technical issues” that had affected the exhibition’s continued operation. Ticket holders for future dates are advised to contact ticketing platforms Klook or Fever, or the event’s official website for a full refund. Following the abrupt shutdown, local lawmakers have weighed in, calling on authorities to tighten regulations and introduce clearer operational requirements for temporary pop-up venues across the city. This means future large-scale events in the city might come with a bit more red tape – and hopefully a lot more padding. Stay in the loop: Sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Canto Jade opens in Tai Koo with old-school dim sum carts and a fresh take on Cantonese dining New family-style Italian restaurant Ninetta opens in the heart of Central Bar Leone wins third best bar in Asia, with Guangzhou’s Hope & Sesame taking the crown

There’s a particular kind of joy in flagging down a trolley cart stacked with steaming bamboo baskets as it rattles past, knowing your favourite dim sum is arriving straight to your table piping hot. It’s a ritual that has, sadly, largely vanished from Hong Kong’s dining scene – but Canto Jade is set on bringing it back to the city. Opening on July 30 at Cityplaza, Canto Jade pairs old-school cart service with a fresh take on traditional Cantonese dining. Instead of the usual roaring banquet hall vibe, the dining room takes its visual cues from the Song dynasty, featuring geometric caisson ceilings and a far more considered layout. Seating accommodates almost any occasion, offering window-side spots for casual meals, flexible tables for smaller catch-ups, and a private room that comfortably fits up to 24 guests for large family feasts or long business lunches. Photograph: Courtesy Canto JadeCrispy chicken with scallion oil & mushroom sauce For the menu, the kitchen delivers a modern interpretation of Cantonese cuisine while honouring traditional techniques and seasonal ingredients. Highlights include baked beef with tomato and cheese served with fried dough stick ($198); a crispy three yellow chicken ($208 for a half bird) paired with green scallion oil; deep-fried salt and pepper eel served on heated volcanic stones ($228); and a flambéed pork belly char siu finished tableside with whisky ($168) for a bit of extra theatrical flair. Photograph: Courtesy Canto JadeEight Delights Dim Sum Birdcage (left), steamed custard cakes (right) The main event, however, is the return of the classic dim sum cart, where you can simply point at whatever takes your fancy as the trolley rolls past. If decision fatigue sets in, the all-day ‘Eight Delights Dim Sum Birdcage’ offers a neatly curated selection of dim sum on the wider menu, featuring crystal prawn dumplings, black truffle siu mai, abalone radish puffs, apple char siu puffs, and more ($238 for two pieces of each). Photograph: Courtesy Canto JadeOsmanthus green oolong latte (left), The 24 Solar Terms tea (right) Before heading off, you can grab a treat at Canto Sweet, their takeaway corner styled after traditional Chinese medicine cabinets. Desserts range from chess piece-shaped steamed custard cakes ($48 for six) to longan coconut shaved ice ($45) and a creamy egg custard with osmanthus fermented rice and mochi ($42). Drink options include iced lattes made with Jin Jun Mei black tea ($42) or osmanthus green oolong ($42), along with a collection of 24 selected teas ($36-$58) balanced around the four seasons, yin and yang, and the five elements. To celebrate the launch, tables of four or more booking for dinner between August 11 and September 11 will receive a complimentary half portion of the signature crispy scallion chicken, specially prepared by the head chef. Bookings can be made by calling or messaging 9075 9087 via WhatsApp. Canto Jade Address: Shop 506, 5/F, Cityplaza, 18 Tai Koo Shing Rd, Tai Koo Opening hours: 11am-10.30pm (Mon-Fri), 9am-10.30pm (Sat, Sun & PH) Stay in the loop: Sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: New family-style Italian restaurant Ninetta opens in the heart of Central Bar Leone wins third best bar in Asia, with Guangzhou’s Hope & Sesame taking the crown Chiu Tang and Kinsman team up for an exclusive two-night dining experience

Central rarely suffers from a shortage of Italian dining options – but a genuine, easygoing neighbourhood spot serving proper family-style food can still feel surprisingly hard to come by. Enter Ninetta, a new Italian trattoria taking up residence on Wellington Street that promises to bring a slice of nostalgic Italian warmth to the heart of the dining district.   Photograph: Courtesy NinettaGroup photo of co-founders Antimo Merone and Graziano De Gregorio, and head chef Marco Xodo   The restaurant is the latest venture co-founded by chef Antimo Maria Merone and Graziano De Gregorio – the duo behind award-winning Italian restaurant Estro – who have teamed up with head chef Marco Xodo and Jia Group. Chef Xodo is a familiar face to discerning local palates, having spent four years steering the kitchen at Testina and earlier claiming two Michelin stars during his seven years at 8½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana in Shanghai. With additional experience at luxury hotel kitchens in Dubai and Riyadh under his belt, he is now turning his attention to an all à la carte menu of 32 comforting, home-style dishes designed for generous sharing.   Photograph: Courtesy NinettaOutdoor terrace of Ninetta   Named after an affectionate Italian term for an adored family matriarch – the sort whose home is always open and dining table always full – Ninetta is set up as a casual, all-day dining spot. The interiors combine warm, earthy tones with design nods to the 1980s and 90s, complemented by a soundtrack of classic 80s Italian tunes. There’s also an outdoor terrace made for lingering over an early evening drink while watching the street-level action unfold below.   Photograph: Courtesy NinettaLasagna terrine   The menu spans 13 antipasti, seven pasta courses, seven mains, and five classic desserts. Starters range from a Campania mozzarella braid with ox heart tomatoes and Taggiasca olives ($228) to a classic Fassone veal tonnato ($218) and a fresh orange carpaccio paired with Spanish anchovies ($138). Fresh homemade pasta remains the main event, with highlights including a rich lasagna terrine with ragù Bolognese ($188); a pappardelle featuring a yellow chicken ragù with chicken heart, gizzard, and comb ($208); and hand-folded tortellini with ham, peas, and cream ($238). Seafood lovers can opt for gnocchetti with Sicilian red prawns ($328) or a sharing-size paccheri cooked with whole Boston lobster ($498). Photograph: Courtesy NinettaVeal chop (left), pesca melba (right) Larger mains cater to communal feasting, featuring a veal chop cooked in clarified butter and sage ($588), a charcoal-grilled 600g Wagyu rib eye ($988), and local ma yau fish prepared Acqua Pazza style ($528). Those dining solo can tuck into a hanger steak with Italian chimichurri ($338), grilled pork neck skewers ($268), or roasted octopus served with peperonata and Romesco bell pepper sauce ($248). To finish, classic desserts like the house tiramisu with hazelnut and crispy crêpes ($108) or pesca melba with peach, vanilla ice cream, raspberry, and marsala sabayon ($108) will round out the meal nicely. The drink selection here focuses heavily on Italian aperitivo culture, featuring classic cassis and spritz variations alongside standard cocktails like the Negroni, Garibaldi, and Hugo Spritz, all priced at $88. A comprehensive wine list highlights producers across Italy, offering everyday bottles alongside celebrated names like Sassicaia and Tignanello, with sparkling bottles starting from $450 and red options ranging up to $3,980. Ninetta is now open on the third floor of M88 on Wellington Street. Dinner is served daily (except Tuesdays) from 6pm to 12am, while lunch service will be available on selected dates throughout July from 12pm to 2.30pm, before launching as a daily lunch offering (closed Tuesdays) starting August 1. Stay in the loop: Sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Japanese lifestyle giant Loft to make Hong Kong comeback after 15 years Bar Leone and Argo win best international bar categories at 2026 Spirited Awards Shanghai’s House of Linglong is taking over Eaton HK for a two-night drag showcase

From lifestyle stores to pop-ups, it’s no secret that Hongkongers can’t get enough of anything Japan-related. And when it comes to food, our city’s foodies squeal with excitement when a Japan-exclusive restaurant or chain store opens a location in Hong Kong. Adding to the list is Truffle Donut – a Japan-wide shop known for its irresistibly fluffy nama doughnuts. The Japanese chain is set to open its first Hong Kong location at Harbour City in early August. So what makes these doughnuts special? In addition to using a unique fermentation process and controlling the dough’s moisture, the Japanese bakery adds pumpkin into the mix, giving the dough its yellow hue, lending a natural sweetness, and helping create a light, bouncy texture. Truffle Donut will bring seven of its classic doughnuts – such as its signature fresh truffle, cream-filled, strawberry, and chocolate – and launch three Hong Kong-exclusive flavours you won’t want to miss: mango pomelo sago, Musang King durian, and pistachio. Visit Truffle Donut at Shop OT G03A, G/F, Ocean Terminal, Harbour City, 3–27 Canton Road, Tsim Sha Tsui when it officially opens in August.Stay in the loop: Sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Bar Leone wins third best bar in Asia, with Guangzhou’s Hope & Sesame taking the crown Japanese lifestyle giant Loft to make Hong Kong comeback after 15 years Chiu Tang and Kinsman team up for an exclusive two-night dining experience

Asia’s 50 Best Bars has just wrapped up its 2026 edition on July 28, having returned to Wynn Palace in Macau for the second time in a row. Hong Kong has unfortunately lost our crown as the best bar in Asia, but Bar Leone has come in at a very respectable rank No. 3! Seven of our city’s top bars have also made it onto this annual prestigious list, so aside from Bar Leone, we are also represented by Gokan at No. 22, Coa at No. 24, Mius at No. 36, Argo at No. 37, Montana at No. 47, and Penicillin at No. 49. Notably, Hong Kong was also further honoured by Shelly Tai, founder of Mius, taking home the Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award. This is the only peer-judged accolade within the Asia’s 50 Best Bars programme, which means that Tai has earned significant recognition from fellow professionals in the bar industry who know their craft best.  Photograph: Courtesy Asia’s 50 Best BarsLorenzo Antinori In addition to the prestigious rankings, Asia’s 50 Best Bars also has a range of special awards, and Hong Kong also has a part in these accolades: in particular, our Cantonese spirits-based bar Kinsman has won the Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu award for creating a top-notch cocktail programme that is unique and highlights its cultural origins. Other special awards include Hats Bar from Jakarta winning the Campari One to Watch award; Smoke & Bitters from Sri Lanka winning the Michter’s Art of Hospitality award; Hanoi’s Workshop14 winning the Three Cents Best New Opening award; and Bangkok’s Bar Us taking home the Ketel One Sustainable Bar award. Photograph: Courtesy Hope & SesameHope & Sesame As for the best bar in Asia for 2026? The honour goes to Guangzhou’s Hope & Sesame, founded by Hongkonger Andrew Ho. Zest in Seoul takes second spot, followed by Bangkok’s Dry Wave Cocktail Studio and MO Bar Shenzhen rounding out the top five. Every year, the Asia’s 50 Best Bars list is curated by over 300 industry experts including esteemed consultants, influential writers, and talented bartenders from across the region. The awards ceremony may be over for another year, but you can still be a part of the buzz by attending one of the various bar guest shifts happening in Hong Kong and Macau until as late as July 30.  See the complete list for Asia’s 50 Best Bars in 2026: Hope & Sesame, Guangzhou Zest, Seoul (Best Bar in Korea) Bar Leone, Hong Kong (Best Bar in Hong Kong) Dry Wave Cocktail Studio, Bangkok (Best Bar in Thailand) MO Bar Shenzhen, Shenzhen Bar Us, Bangkok (Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award) Lennon’s (Disaronno Highest New Entry Award; New entry)  Boilermaker, Goa (Best Bar in India) Jigger & Pony, Singapore (Best Bar in Singapore) Obsidian Bar, Shenzhen (New entry) Modernhaus (Best Bar in Indonesia) Nutmeg & Clove, Singapore Alice, Seoul Vender, Taichung (Best Bar in Taiwan) Cosmo Pony, Jakarta Offtrack, Singapore Bar Sathorn, Bangkok (Nikka Highest Climber Award) Soka, Bengaluru Pony Up, Shanghai (New entry) BKK Social Club, Bangkok Carrots Bar, Jakarta Gokan, Hong Kong Punch Room Tokyo (Best Bar in Japan) Coa, Hong Kong (Rémy Martin Legend of the List Award) Opium, Bangkok Virtù, Tokyo CMYK, Changsha Ralph’s Bar, Chengdu (New entry) Smoke & Bitters, Hiriketiya (Best Bar in Sri Lanka; Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award) Bar Spirit Forward, Bengaluru  G.O.D, Bangkok Three x Co, Kuala Lumpur (Best Bar in Malaysia) Bar Cham, Seoul Workshop14, Hanoi (Best Bar in Vietnam; Three Cents Best New Opening Award; New entry) To Infinity & Beyond, Taipei Mius, Hong Kong (Sevenrooms Best Bar Design Award; New entry) Argo, Hong Kong Bar Trigona, Kuala Lumpur Bar Libre, Tokyo The Golden Tooth, Jakarta (New entry) The Han-Jia, Tainan (New entry) M+MS Bar, Seoul (New entry) Origin Bar, Singapore Problem Child, Makati (Best in the Philippines; New entry) The St. Regis Bar, Macau (Best in Macau) The Hudson Rooms, Hanoi (New entry) Montana, Hong Kong (New entry) Aqua Bar, Bangkok (New entry) Penicillin, Hong Kong Tiao, Beijing (New entry) To dive further into Asia’s fantastic bar scene, check out the extended list of 51-100 rankings as well. Happy drinking! Stay in the loop: Sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Chiu Tang and Kinsman team up for an exclusive two-night dining experience Bar Leone and Argo win best international bar categories at 2026 Spirited Awards Shanghai’s House of Linglong is taking over Eaton HK for a two-night drag showcase

Chiu Chow restaurant Chiu Tang is joining forces with Central cocktail bar Kinsman for an exclusive two-night dining collaboration this August. As part of Lai Sun Dining’s ongoing ‘Let’s Dine’ series, this special event merges the artistry and heritage of Chiu Chow cuisine with contemporary Cantonese mixology – a union that, frankly, requires very little convincing on our part. Titled ‘In the Mood for Flavours’, the event will take place at Chiu Tang’s venue at The Galleria on August 12 and 13. Executive chef Cheung Lam-por, who brings over 30 years of experience in Chiu Chow cuisine, has put his head together with Kinsman’s co-founder Gavin Yeung to design a collaborative eight-course menu featuring two cocktail pairings crafted with local spirits and botanical ingredients. There’ll also be an exclusive dish and a signature drink on the menu, available specifically for the two nights only. Chanelling the nostalgia of a bygone era, the experience will treat diners to a mid-century cinematic atmosphere complete with retro Cantonese tunes playing in the background. Guests are also more than welcome to embrace the theme by turning up in traditional Qipao or Tang suits. Dinner reservations for both evenings are now open online via sevenrooms.com, priced at $1,080 per person with a minimum booking requirement of two guests. Stay in the loop: Sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Bar Leone and Argo win best international bar categories at 2026 Spirited Awards Shanghai’s House of Linglong is taking over Eaton HK for a two-night drag showcase The Hong Kong passport takes 14th place among the world’s most powerful passports

Iconic Japanese lifestyle brand Loft is officially making its grand return to Hong Kong! After a 15-year absence from the city, the retail giant is set to open a year-long pop-up at MOKO in Mong Kok towards the end of August. A little bit of background for those of you who don’t know: Loft first came about in 1987 as an annex concept to Shibuya’s Seibu Department Store, pioneering a retail concept that prioritised curation over simple shelf-stocking. They quickly became a household name for their huge selection of everyday goods, ranging from sleek homeware to design-led oddities. That said, they’re easily most beloved by stationery enthusiasts, who routinely lose their minds over the endless array of cute paper goods and quirky items that nobody actually needs but will inevitably buy. The formula clearly worked, given that they now operate 183 stores across Japan. Photograph: ShutterstockLoft As for Hong Kong, Loft first debuted 36 years ago, opening at Pacific Place in 1990 before eventually closing its doors in 2011. This time around, Yachi Group – the same folks responsible for bringing 3Coins to the city – is giving Loft another run, taking over a first-floor space at MOKO for a full 12 months. The new store will feature five core categories. Cosmetics and skincare fans can look forward to Japanese beauty products, body care, and men’s grooming picks. Home decor enthusiasts will find table settings, diffusers, and incense sticks, while foodies can stock up on Japanese snacks, matcha, craft beers, and specialty seasonings. Stationery lovers are naturally well catered for with various paper goods, stickers, and notebooks, alongside seasonal gift items, IP character merchandise, blind boxes, and locally themed items. Photograph: Courtesy YaichiJapanese lifestyle retailer Loft set to open in Hong Kong While currently slated as a year-long pop-up, the group has hinted that a permanent stay could be on the cards if local shoppers turn out in force. Bright yellow hoardings have already gone up at the mall to mark the spot, complete with a QR code linking straight to the brand’s new Instagram page (@loft_hk_official) for those who wish to keep up with the latest updates. More details will trickle out as launch day gets closer, so stay tuned. Stay in the loop: Sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Chiu Tang and Kinsman team up for an exclusive two-night dining experience Bar Leone and Argo win best international bar categories at 2026 Spirited Awards Shanghai’s House of Linglong is taking over Eaton HK for a two-night drag showcase

The eyes of Asia’s drinks sphere is focused on us for the upcoming Asia’s 50 Best Bars awards in Macau, but before that list gets announced, Tales of the Cocktail Foundation (TOTCF) released the winners of its 20th annual Spirited Awards on July 24 – and two of our top-notch bars represented Hong Kong on the list. Bar Leone – currently the World’s Best Bar according to 50 Best – took home the award for Best International Bar Team, which absolutely tracks since Lorenzo Antinori has always been meticulous about hospitality and having his staff curate a warm, cosy atmosphere that makes visitors feel welcome into the bar and its neighbourhood. Photograph: Courtesy Bar LeoneBar Leone The other Hong Kong winner is Argo at the Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, which was crowned with the title of Best International Hotel Bar. TOTCF’s 2026 conference theme is “Spark” and Argo’s innovative menus and fun, unpretentious atmosphere (despite being housed in one of Hong Kong’s top hotels) has always ignited ideas and creativity within the drinks industry.  The big winner of the Spirited Awards this year is Singapore’s Fura, which took Best International Restaurant Bar and also the World’s Best Bar accolade. Other notable wins include Satan’s Whiskers in London receiving the Best International Cocktail Bar; Bar Snack in New York winning Best U.S. Cocktail Bar; and Yayo Nava from Mexico City’s Bar Mauro being crowned International Bartender of the Year. Check out the full list of 2026 Spirited Awards winners on TOTCF’s website. Stay in the loop: Sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Shanghai’s House of Linglong is taking over Eaton HK for a two-night drag showcase The Hong Kong passport takes 14th place among the world’s most powerful passports Two Hong Kong creatives launch artistic homeware themed after food and collective memories

It’s no secret that we love this city and all it has to offer, and we’re always proud to call ourselves Hongkongers. But if there’s one gripe we have – a bone to pick, if you will – it is that Hong Kong is not exactly the most pet-friendly place in the world. We have the bustling city, the teeming nightlife, the lush greenery, and so much amazing food, but when we look at other cities all around the world, Hong Kong pet owners can’t help but think about how we can’t simply stroll into malls or places of entertainment with our furry companions, or even ride on the subway with them. Luckily, things are taking a turn for the better, with the Hong Kong government recently announcing the introduction of a special permit that will allow selected restaurants to welcome dogs indoors. Targeted for approval by mid-2026, between 500 and 1,000 permits will be issued to restaurants which apply for them. This means that we could see a sudden influx of restaurants that actively embrace patrons dining alongside their pets within this year – an absolute dream for dog owners who are tired of being relegated to outdoor seating with no air conditioning. View this post on Instagram A post shared by April & Artie (@aprilandartie) To address some of these queries: restaurants granted the pet permit will be allowed to determine the extent of their participation, and the policy does indeed cover air-conditioned areas in restaurants. Pet owners will be required to keep their dogs under control at all times with a leash no longer than 1.5 metres or secured to a fixed object. Dogs will also not be allowed on dining tables or to come in contact with food and tableware. It remains to be seen whether there’s a limit on how many dogs each pet owner can bring into eateries, and secretary for environment and ecology Tse Chin-wan also said on February 10 that dog diapers will most likely not be made mandatory as it may cause discomfort to dogs who don’t need them. High-risk venues like hotpot or barbecue restaurants will not be granted pet permits.  When asked which restaurants they would want to see welcome their pets in the near future, Hong Kong’s pet owners are not picky – they’re just happy that the option to do so is happening in the first place. Stephanie Lown, who works at the SPCA Hong Kong and is the founder of the outdoor adventure group Exploring Dogs, is just “thrilled to have any options open up to dogs at all!” Her rescue dog Lola is an energetic, active adventurer of the great outdoors, so Lown can think of “nothing better than ending a hike with your dog and being able to stop at a café or restaurant for a nice refreshing drink or meal”. Cho would love to see Korean restaurants and dim sum places adopt a pet-friendly attitude, while Dorathy wants to see their dining options expand to include cha chaan tengs or fast-food joints. We don’t know if Maxim’s Palace in City Hall or your local Café de Coral will soon embrace hungry pups, but it sure is a nice thought! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Life in Hong Kong with Lola (@livin_da_vida_lola) Promoting pet-friendly eateries is a great step in making Hong Kong a more inclusive city for animals. Considering that the local pet economy is a multi-billion dollar market driven by mostly younger citizens with the financial means and the inclination to provide the best for their animals, there is plenty more that can be done to make people happy while tapping into this sizable income pocket. Hong Kong is already trying out having pets on public transport, with select bus routes accommodating animals on certain days of the week and the Light Rail in the New Territories allowing pets on the weekends. Pet owners are now eagerly waiting for expanded transportation options, as well as regulations that don’t require their pets being placed in carriers – it’s easy to put a Pomeranian in a bag, but try doing the same with a Bernese Mountain Dog.  “Right now, I am always on foot or taking cabs everywhere whenever I travel with my dogs,” Cho muses. “I hope one day dogs will be allowed on either the MTR or on buses.” Dorathy concurs, saying that as a medium-sized dog owner, “it would be fantastic to bring my dogs on the MTR and buses”, adding that she wouldn’t mind putting her Samoyeds in diapers to ensure hygiene if needed. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Exploring Dogs (@exploringdogs) Cho also adds that there are not enough dog-friendly parks and beaches in Hong Kong – dogs are currently banned from most parks and public beaches, with only a handful open to dog owners and their pups. “We usually end up on unregulated beaches that are filled with plastic, broken glass, and trash, which is so dangerous for dogs. Hopefully we’ll see more dog-friendly places so our fur babies can enjoy nature too.” Lown looks even further ahead, hoping to see more housing options open up to pet owners as well. “The last couple of years have definitely shown promise with ferries, KMB buses, and the MTR welcoming dogs for SPCA’s Dogathon, but we still have some ways to go. Other countries have had these pet-inclusive policies for years, if not decades!” Lastly, she hopes that with this recent wave of pet-friendly sentiment, the Hong Kong government might review the city’s animal cruelty laws, which she laments have not been updated in 90 years. “It would be good to see the government finally implementing a ‘Duty of Care’ policy which would help improve animal rights and welfare in Hong Kong.” Hear, hear! Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Hong Kong’s recent food poisoning outbreak linked to raw oysters Calbee opens a limited-time Chinese New Year pop-up at Citygate Outlets for snack fans Macau is the most active region in Asia when it comes to love and sex, according to Time Out

Ever wanted to go back in time and shop at a supermarket from the 1950s? It might come off as a rather specific fancy, but for those who harbour such a dream, you’re in luck: Hong Kong’s homegrown supermarket giant, Wellcome, is hopping aboard the nostalgia train with the launch of a retro-inspired concept store in Yau Ma Tei. Designed as a tribute to Hong Kong’s extensive retail history, Wellcome has repurposed its Prosperous Garden branch in Yau Ma Tei as an exhibition destination to celebrate the supermarket’s 80-year-plus legacy. Founded in 1945, Wellcome has been a constant in the lives of local families, serving the needs of generations of Hongkongers. As the city evolved, Wellcome evolved with it, but this branded concept shop preserves a slice of the supermarket as shoppers might have seen it back in the 1950s to the 1970s, complete with vintage character, photogenic interiors, and time-limited collectibles. Each aisle, stocked with a curated selection of products, doubles as a fetching backdrop oozing charm and colour, so no doubt this location will quickly become a popular attraction! Photograph: Courtesy Wellcome Snap photos of the LED-emblazoned shopfront, which takes its cues from Hong Kong’s famous urban landscape of neon lights; discover classic interior design elements such as the vintage silver-and-green turnstile, a sea of red plastic lamps popularised in wet markets, and patterned floor tiles; and admire nostalgic grocery setups and heritage exhibits that showcase the allure and shared memories of Hong Kong’s past.  As part of the concept store activation, Wellcome is also launching special deals and brand collaborations to commemorate the occasion, including a reusable Wellcome Retro Eco Bag for $28 with a single transaction of $100 – it’s reminiscent of Wellcome’s old-school red-and-yellow carrier, making for a keepsake that’s both practical and sentimental. Additionally, Wellcome will team up with tech equipment manufacturer Smeg to offer a limited-edition Lifebox ($88 with any purchase of $100 or more) from February 6 to 19, and Hong Kong’s own lifestyle brand G.O.D. for a Lunar New Year-themed game set ($68). Photograph: Courtesy Wellcome Wait, there’s more! While the weather’s still below 20 degrees Celsius, pop over to Prosperous Garden to sip warmed Vitasoy soy milk from glass bottles – a Hong Kong childhood memory that many will dwell on fondly. You can also take your chance at a Lee Kum Kee capsule machine from now until March 31, which will dispense a surprise miniature magnet depicting one of the condiment maker’s signature products. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Harbourside Swing Fest returns for its 2026 edition in late April Shiro brings its signature ‘crystal sushi’ to its second location in Tai Kwun Everything you need to know about Japan’s official cherry blossom forecast 2026

Love dim sum and surreal imagery? You’re in good company. Hong Kong street artist Lousy, best known for his bold graphics resembling glyphs and pictorial shapes, is collaborating with viral food photographer-artist David Leung – also known as Davidgoodtime, who specialises in capturing reflected food images highlighting pareidolia – for a dynamic exhibition about dim sum and the ritual of yum cha.  Hosted at JPS Gallery, ‘Double Umami’ is an artistic ode to Hong Kong cuisine, reimagined through the unique lenses of two distinctly different creators, who shaped their love of dumplings and morning teas into a visual celebration of Hong Kong’s DNA.  Photograph: Courtesy JPS Gallery In the exhibition space, visitors will encounter a customised dim sum cart installation, decorated by David and Lousy, in addition to photographs depicting beloved dim sum dishes in Leung’s signature mirrored style, mounted inside bamboo steamers crafted by master artisan Lui Ming of Ming Sang Steel Bamboo Receptacle. ‘Crab’s Kid Burn & Sell’ shows siu mai in a different light, appearing almost like the face of a crustacean, while ‘Char Siu Cat No. 2’ draws parallels between char siu bao and felines. We also particularly liked the birdcage installation which houses real emu eggs and plastic cards from dim sum carts inscribed with the Chinese onomatopoeia for bird chirps. Photograph: Courtesy JPS Gallery Branching out from photography onto canvas and installation work for the first time, Leung is also presenting the ‘Sauce’ series, applying the same mirrored techniques to create patterns reminiscent of Rorschach inkblot tests. Inspired by traditional Fu Lu Shou statues representing fortune, prosperity, and longevity, Leung uses foldable boards loaded with pigment to ‘find’ faces hidden in the paint. In contrast, Lousy – rather than focusing on the food aspect of dim sum – aims to capture the feeling of community and chaos experienced during a yum cha get-together. He paints and draws on top of old dim sum order sheets to give graphic form to the hustle and bustle of a Cantonese restaurant, depicting figures sat at a table, abstract interpretations of food, hands pouring tea, and more. Photograph: Courtesy JPS Gallery David and Lousy’s collaborations don’t end there. Lousy has teamed up with Wendy’s Wok World for a ‘Special Collab Soy Sauce’. 22 bottles of Tiu Yuen small-batch soy sauce are covered in custom packaging artwork created by Lousy. Meanwhile, Leung worked with chef May Chow of Little Bao to wrap 50 bottles of her handcrafted Fook Jiang chilli sauce in original ‘chilli sauce’ Rorschach artworks, bringing the food-focused project one degree closer to the art of Chinese cooking. ‘Double Umami’ is on exhibition at JPS Gallery from January 30 to March 7. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Art book publisher Taschen is having a huge sale in early February Starbucks opens at the Hong Kong Palace Museum with Hong Kong’s first Chinese calligraphy shop sign and exclusive products Fujifilm releases a camcorder-instant camera hybrid in the instax mini Evo Cinema

Listen, we love a good beat drop or screaming chart-toppers like any other nighttime reveller in the city, but in this era of EDM and throwback pop-heavy party scene, it would be nice to enjoy something authentic that sounds different for once. Well, it looks like we got our wish, because a vinyl record-based bar has just announced they’ll be opening in Lan Kwai Fong. The brainchild of longtime friends Brian and Ah Hei, the 8055 vinyl bar has had previous iterations based in Causeway Bay and Wan Chai, which grew in popularity to welcome even local celebrities and creatives like Eason Chan and Tyson Yoshi as patrons. The pandemic eventually saw the shuttering of the bar – but not for good. Photograph: Courtesy 8055 Building on their seven-year brand identity as a hotspot for authentic vinyl DJ-ing, graffiti art, and Japanese chill drinking culture, 8055 is now back in the game with a new home in the heart of Hong Kong’s nightlife district, Lan Kwai Fong. Expect the warmth and pops of analogue sound being played all night, with a focus on Japanese hip-hop, jazz, funk, and city pop – a sound that’s pretty unique within our nightlife scene and, frankly, a breath of fresh air from all the other clubs around. To pair with the music, 8055’s drinks turn the focus on premium Japanese whiskies and umeshu plum wine. Their signature tipple is an elegant, simple umeshu soda, but you can also truly do things the Japanese way by leaving the choice up to the bartender, omakase-style. Staying true to the brand’s history, 8055’s new venue will also allow guests to freely draw, scribble, and unleash creativity all over the walls with graffiti markers, so if you’ve ever left your mark in bars like Not2Sweet, you’ll want to do the same here as well. Photograph: Courtesy 8055 Check things out at 8055’s grand opening party on January 24, when they’ll be hosting a 10-hour DJ relay from 8pm onwards. The lineup will include Andrew Bull, better known as DJ El Toro or the ‘Father of Hong Kong DJs’, who is famous for initiating the city’s first disco in The Peninsula hotel as well as the iconic Canton Disco. Sounds like a party and a half! Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Kodak Apparel opens a time-limited concept store in Hong Kong New brasserie Chouchou brings French comfort food to an elevated setting in Wan Chai Sai Ying Pun’s historic steakhouse Sammy’s Kitchen announces closure this month

The popular Japanese mascot series Namagaki is taking over Festival Walk in Kowloon Tong with a themed installation! Since Namagaki characters began popping up inside claw machines and arcades across town, so many hearts have been captured by their simple yet lovable designs and adorably blank expressions. The Namagaki Festival features a series of installations and exhibits for fans to take pictures with, as well as a charming merch pop-up with exclusive items for sale. Photograph: Courtesy Yell / Festival Walk At the centre of the installation is a four-metre-tall giant oyster can, where Namagaki characters spill out alongside rainbow-coloured sweets. Right next door is the pastel-coloured Namagaki Washoku House, where cute oyster characters act as chef and waiter at this makeshift traditional Japanese eatery. See if you can spot the pink pumpkins dotted around the space – it’s the installation’s discreet nod to the upcoming spooky season.  Beyond photo ops, fans will definitely delight in browsing through the themed pop-up store housing over 100 exclusive Namagaki products, including 80 first launches in Hong Kong that span everything from stationery to t-shirts and tote bags. Don’t forget to stop by the Namagaki claw machine and the collectible trading card capsule machine for an adorable surprise!  Photograph: Courtesy Festival Walk In the spirit of Halloween, Festival Walk is inviting visitors to trick or treat around designated stores in the mall. Exclusive to My Festival members, take part in this seasonal activity by purchasing a $1,000 gift card to receive a limited-edition Baby Namagaki birthstone bag charm and candy can clutch – where you can store your hard-earned sweets.  Namagaki Festival will be at Festival Walk from October 24 to November 13. See footage of the Namagaki Festival pop-up here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Hong Kong (@timeouthk) Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: 18 hotels in Hong Kong and Macau have been awarded 2025 Michelin Keys OneRepublic is coming back to Hong Kong in February 2026 The best Halloween parties in Hong Kong this year

Remember when we all saw a giant Doraemon sitting unexpectedly at the dockyard along Tsing Yi last week? Well, the news is out and it’s not that a robotic cat is invading Hong Kong – instead, a fleet of floating inflatable sculptures will be making their appearance along Victoria Harbour next month. AllRightsReserved, the local creative brand behind last year’s thousands of panda sculptures and the recent Chiikawa exhibition in Tsim Sha Tsui, is putting on the Water Parade, where a set of four giant, floating inflatable figures will be making a debut at sea. In the lineup is Doraemon, perched on his favourite dorayaki snack; Elmo from the Kaws & Sesame Street collaboration; McDonalds’ purple blob-shaped mascot Grimace; and Labubu, the globally viral Nordic-inspired monster by Hong Kong-born artist Kasing Lung. After a trial run in the waters of Tsing Yi on September 20, these four figures will be set afloat along Victoria Harbour on October 25, and will be shown in brand-new poses. Visit them just off of Tamar Park in Admiralty and snap plenty of photos, because when else are you going to see such universally recognised and different cartoon characters all sitting together? Photograph: Courtesy AllRightsReserved On November 1, the floating sculptures will be taken on a water parade between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, sailing along both sides of Victoria Harbour, before departing from our waters on the evening of the same day. For the entire duration of the sculpture display, there will also be a Water Parade Market at the promenade near Tamar Park. Aside from pop-up stores, F&B stands, game booths, photo spots, and a capsule toy zone, the market will also feature other internationally popular IPs from KPop Demon Hunters, season five of Stranger Things, Squid Games, Snoopy and the Peanuts, as well as Hong Kong’s classic TOLO Founding Duck, which is marking its 40th anniversary. Early-bird tickets to the festivities will be available at $50 for adults, starting at 12 noon on September 26. Walk-in tickets can also be purchased on site, subject to availability. All tickets include a $20 merchandise voucher, which can be redeemed cumulatively on purchases of every $200. Attendees can also buy a viewing platform special ticket at $150, which includes entry to the Water Parade Market. See some footage of the Water Parade here: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Hong Kong (@timeouthk) Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: The best Oktoberfest events happening in Hong Kong this year The best things to do in Hong Kong this week (September 22-28) Super Typhoon Ragasa: Hong Kong braces for the strongest typhoon of the year as it approaches the city

Do you remember an exhibition last summer that displayed miniature scenes of the Central and Western districts in Pacific Place? In case you missed it, the Joyful Miniature Association (JMA) is back once again, this time with more incredibly detailed dioramas of life in Hong Kong, including seven brand-new miniatures that have never been seen before. The 24 art pieces will highlight some of Hong Kong’s famous landmarks, cultural customs, and unique lifestyles. Peek into painstaking recreations of Sunday dim sum at Maxim’s Palace in City Hall, chaotic nighttime revelry along Lan Kwai Fong, the customs of worship and pin wheel buying at Man Mo Temple and Wong Tai Sin Temple, a moving model of the fifth generation of the Peak Tram funicular railway, views of Victoria Harbour complete with boats sailing and fireworks, and more.  Photograph: Courtesy Joyful Miniature Association The new miniatures at this show include the Kai Tak Sports Park, the legendary old Kowloon Walled City, night scenes of Temple Street, horse racing, aquatic animals on sale at one of the many shops along Goldfish Street, the cable car at Ngong Ping 360, and Hong Kong’s transhipment history at the Insta-famous Western District Pier. The JMA brings together over 100 Hong Kong artists who collectively integrate the traditionally European craft of miniatures with our distinctly local culture using cutting-edge technology. If there’s one way to stroll through the most iconic sights and experiences of Hong Kong in just a few steps, this exhibition is definitely it. ‘Hong Kong: Through the Looking Glass Miniature Exhibition’ will be on display at The Peak Tower from April 25 to June 23 – JMA’s longest exhibition in the city. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox Recommended stories: Hong Kong ranked as the 10th most walkable city in the world; 1st in East Asia Hong Kong Airport Express proposes fare increase of 9.4 percent The Cheung Chau Bun Festival is hosting a carnival this Sunday

We sit down with artist and designer Joe Foti before his new exhibition in Hong Kong

March in Hong Kong is not complete without a trip to the Wanchai Convention Centre to spend a day or two at Art Basel. This year’s fair gathers 240 global galleries, with large-scale installations, paintings, sculptures, digital art, live performances, video works, and more to see!

From a world without colours to her love of big city metros, we caught up with British artist Monster Chetwynd for a round of quick-fire questions while she's in town for her new installation at Pacific Place!