Elizabeth Purvis

At the bottom of Hill Road and behind one of the University of Hong Kong's MTR exits is Shek Tong Tsui's newest cocktail bar. It may be hard to locate but, hidden in plain sight, BBM Lounge is well worth the visit. It doesn't look like much from the outside but as soon as we step inside, it's the bar equivalent of entering Narnia, albeit a glittery one with neon lights, gold-scaled walls and menus that glow in the dark. We start the night off with one of the signature six-month, barrel-aged cocktails, a Smoky Manhattan ($128). It arrives in a glass dome that's filled with smoke, creating a dramatic effect when the bartender lifts the cover to reveal the misty cocktail. It's a regular manhattan, with its whisky, sweet vermouth and bitters, but the smoke adds greater depth to the concoction. We also order a Spiked Tea ($98) which is just as inventive. Boasting an unusual explosion of tea-infused flavours, this tipple is deceptively easy to drink. If you love chrysanthemum or red tea, this is the gin cocktail for you. Right next to the MTR, BBM Lounge is a prime location for anyone looking for creatively fun cocktails and a neon space that wows you – far from the madding crowd.

In efforts to preserve and transfer the techniques of making a perfect cup of Milk Tea, Black and White has put together an intensive training programme. Through this programme, the Milk Tea Masters will be passing down their techniques to a younger generation. Black and White, which produces the essential evaporated milk that gives milk tea its unique creaminess, is dedicated to preserving Hong Kong's culture. This training programme/internship gives Hong Kongers the chance to learn from the master and sustain the cha chaan teng industry in Hong Kong. A maximum of 10 people will be chosen to complete at least 150 hours of training. So if you've dreamed of being a Milk Tea Master yourself, here's your chance!