Hong Kong’s very own SoHo needs no introduction — alas, the area was hard hit during the COVID-19 pandemic, and we’re heartbroken to see the empty shopfronts facing the streets. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite hotspots below for our readers to revisit and support!
More from our neighborhood guide series.
Crowd Favourites
The Pontiac
Step into the grungy, NYC-style bar, The Pontiac, for a laidback vibe unlike some of its (arguably) pretentious competitors. Bras hang from the ceiling and polaroids are plastered all over the walls here, yet it attracts its regular customers for much more than its unique décor. The drinks are affordable and the bartenders are sociable, giving its already upbeat atmosphere an open-armed welcoming to all its visitors.
Read our review on The Pontiac here
13 Old Bailey St, Central, 2521-3855.
Old Timer (Kinda…)
Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Arts
Tai Kwun is Hong Kong’s biggest restoration project taken and its eight-year renovation (by Swiss architecture studio Herzog de Meuron) is nothing short of impressive. Its history is just as fascinating, the compound dating back to 1862 serving as the colonial-era Central Police station. There’s a lot to explore in this public space, from the fine dining restaurants and bars to the exquisite art scene.
Read our spotlight on Tai Kwun here
10 Hollywood Rd, Central, 3559-2600.
Eat here
Fukuro
Night owls adjourn at the izakaya venue Fukuro on Elgin Street, reminiscent of late-night Tokyo. The quintessential dining space is tucked away in a dim-lit basement, but don’t be dismayed — culinary delights await and a hip, energetic crowd who come to dine (and indulge in sake) fill the restaurant.
Read our review on Fukuro here
Fukuro, 1-5 Elgin Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2333-8841.
MEATS
The highly acclaimed MEATS is a carnivore’s heaven. Deemed as a “meat bar”, the restaurant offers what you’d expect: a selection of quality beef, chicken, lamb and cold cuts. It can be difficult to get a guaranteed spot here, so be sure to book in advance.
G/F Soho, 28-30 Staunton St, Central, 2711-1812.
The Chinese Library
Situated within the post-colonial compound Tai Kwun, The Chinese Library pays homage to an East-meets-West interior with decadent regional Chinese dishes. Try one of their Hong Kong-themed beverages (i.e. dan tart cocktail) with a table of signature dim sum.
Read more about The Chinese Library here
Block 01, Tai Kwun, Police Headquarters, 10 Hollywood Rd, Central, 2848-3088.
Drink here
The Old Man
Making its way to the top of the list of Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2019, The Old Man serves some of the most inventive cocktails in a trendy setting dedicated to Ernest Hemingway. It’s no surprise that visitors travel from far and wide to sip some of the sophisticated drinks once loved by the author himself, who was a connoisseur and lover of fine spirits.
Read more about The Old Man here
Lower G/F, 37-39 Aberdeen Street, Soho, Central, 2703-1899.
Quinary
All taste buds are catered for at Quinary, a contemporary-meets-classy bar with a menu showcasing pages of expertly crafted cocktails. There’s usually a queue here, but it’s worth lining up for it, particularly if you’re an avid G&T enthusiast.
Read our review on Quinary here
56, 58 Hollywood Road, Central, 2851-3223.
COA
Techinically we’re in in NoHo, but if tequila is your calling, head to COA for a Mexican-inspired artisanal cocktail made with the agave spirit. Helmed by beverage bar veteran Jay Khan, this bar offers a genuine charm in an intimate setting focused on what it does best: craft cocktails.
Shop A, LG/F Wah Shin House, 6-10 Shin Hing Street, Central, 2813-5787.
Do This
Visit the arts scene
There’s plenty of artistic sights here, whether you’re one for contemporary art galleries or for the vast displays of wall art throughout the district (as pictured in Graham Street, above). Take time to appreciate the impressive artworks and hidden gems around SoHo, and maybe even channel your inner artist for inspiration.
Go shopping at PMQ
Previously known as the Hollywood Road Police Married Quarters, the renovated PMQ is now an arts and creatives hub boasting independent restaurants, boutiques, art galleries and even a cooking studio. Explore this expansive complex — which houses over 100 retail space — and perhaps even take something home with you.
Read about the history of PMQ here
SoHo on the map
Around the Block…
Sheung Wan
Only a short walk from SoHo, the quaint and hipster Sheung Wan offers much to explore, particularly trendy coffee shops, the historic Man Mo temple and a breath of fresh air from the bustling Central.
