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Hong Kong’s heralded live entertainment venue, Maggie Choo’s, is set to debut an ambitious new cabaret show, What Maggie Wants, this November. Building on the success of its inaugural cabaret offering launched in March 2025, the new production promises an electrifying blend of high-energy choreography, live soulful jazz, and spectacular acrobatic feats, solidifying the venue’s standing as a cornerstone of the city’s nightlife.

Elevating the Live Entertainment Experience

Departing from traditional narrative structures, What Maggie Wants features an exhilarating medley of 12 distinct dance numbers organized into three acts, prioritizing dynamic visual and auditory impact over a continuous plotline. This fresh format is designed to keep audiences captivated with a seamless transition between theatrical routines.

Patrons can anticipate a diverse line-up of performances, ranging from breathtaking aerial maneuvers and classic rhythmic tap dancing to intimate, sensual routines. Notably, the show incorporates an element of audience participation during the highly anticipated chair-dancing segment titled ‘Partition,’ inviting receptive guests to share the stage with the professional performers.

A crucial component of the experience is the sophisticated live music. The choreography is set against an original score specially crafted by Maggie Choo’s in-house entertainment production team. This background score is steeped in soulful jazz and swing elements, evoking a touch of satisfying nostalgia while maintaining a contemporary, energetic feel.

Refreshed Menu: Cocktails Inspired by the Acts

To complement the revamped show, Maggie Choo’s is introducing an upgraded beverage menu featuring signature cocktails and zero-proof mocktails. Each drink is carefully curated and named after an act within What Maggie Wants, adding an immersive layer to the evening.

Highlights from the new libation list include the Inheriting Only, a deeply flavorful rum-based concoction, and the Entertainer, a sleek vodka-based selection. For those seeking non-alcoholic options, the venue offers the Entrepreneurial Spirit, a sophisticated zero-ABV choice.

Key Features of the New Cabaret:

• Format: 12 dynamic, non-storyline-based dance numbers divided into three acts.
• Performance Styles: Aerial acrobatics, tap dancing, chair dancing, and contemporary choreography.
• Music: Original live score featuring soulful jazz and swing.
• Audience Engagement: Participation opportunities during select dance routines.

Practical Details for Attending the Show

What Maggie Wants will run every Thursday evening, kicking off at 9:30 p.m. and concluding near midnight.

As is customary, entry to the cabaret show is granted with the purchase of a drink, with prices starting from HK$140 per glass. This accessible entry structure continues to make high-quality live entertainment approachable for both local residents and visitors to Hong Kong.

Maggie Choo’s has consistently been recognized for its dedication to innovative nightlife experiences. The launch of What Maggie Wants underscores Hong Kong’s thriving performing arts scene and offers a vibrant alternative to conventional bar offerings. For a dose of spectacle, quality live music, and handcrafted cocktails, Maggie Choo’s new Thursday night feature is poised to become the city’s premier evening destination.

Global travel experts recently affirmed Hong Kong’s status as a premier global destination, with Condé Nast Traveller designating the vibrant metropolis as one of Asia’s best places to visit in 2026, citing a compelling blend of cultural heritage and pioneering modern development, including major infrastructure upgrades, world-class culinary additions, and significant arts venue openings across the city.

The accolade, compiled by the publication’s pan-Asian network of writers, highlights destinations that masterfully balance the historical with the cutting-edge. Hong Kong, a city already lauded for its high-end hotels, dynamic bar scene, and expansive country parks, is undergoing several “glow-ups” poised to peak in 2026, cementing its appeal for sophisticated international travelers.

Cultural and Culinary Renaissance Fuels Excitement

A key driver of this recognition is the ongoing transformation within the West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD). In 2026, the Foster + Partners-designed WestK Performing Arts Centre is scheduled to open, introducing three brand-new, world-class performance stages. These venues will significantly enhance Hong Kong’s cultural landscape, providing space for elite dance and theatrical productions, accommodating audiences of approximately 2,300 people and solidifying the city’s role as an arts hub in Asia.

The dining scene is simultaneously receiving an infusion of global talent. Celebrated French culinary figure, Daniel Boulud, is preparing to debut Terrace Boulud in the heart of Central. Located on the 25th floor of Landmark Prince’s and directly connected to the Mandarin Oriental via a sleek skyway, this high-profile establishment promises to elevate Hong Kong’s already esteemed haute cuisine offerings.

Major Infrastructure Upgrades Improve Visitor Experience

Beyond leisure and culture, substantial investment in infrastructure is laying the groundwork for a more seamless visitor journey. The ambitious, multibillion-dollar expansion of the Hong Kong International Airport remains on track. This comprehensive project includes an expanded three-runway system, upgraded Terminal 2 facilities, and a new coach hall, with a target capacity of handling up to 120 million passengers annually by 2027. These developments promise smoother arrivals and departures for the anticipated influx of tourists.

For those eager to explore the city’s surprisingly verdant landscape, improvements are being made to popular hiking trails. Key natural attractions, including scenic routes on Tai Mo Shan, Lantau Peak, The Peak, and the Sai Kung Hoi area, are seeing enhanced waymarks and informative visitor panels. These upgrades aim to make accessing Hong Kong’s lush surroundings safer and more enjoyable for nature enthusiasts.

In the urban core, the Sky100 Observation Deck is set to reopen mid-year after undergoing a significant reimagining. Visitors will be afforded revamped high-altitude experiences and unrivalled panoramic vistas of the city’s stunning skyline and adjacent rolling hills.

In summary, 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year of rediscovery for Hong Kong. The simultaneous fruition of high-profile arts projects, world-class dining ventures, and substantial infrastructural improvements underscores the city’s enduring capacity to offer an experience rich in both ancient heritage and cutting-edge innovation. Travelers looking for a destination that offers mountains, magnificent harbors, history, and luxury should place Hong Kong high on their itinerary.

Hong Kong’s burgeoning bubble tea scene has received a significant upgrade with the official arrival of Soma Tea & Mocktail. The acclaimed Taiwanese boba milk tea brand, celebrated for its artisanal approach and premium ingredients, has opened its first permanent brick-and-mortar location within the upscale K11 Musea complex in Tsim Sha Tsui. Following a buzz-generating pop-up residency last year at The Farmhouse Deli, Soma is now serving its award-winning signature drinks alongside a highly anticipated, exclusive Hong Kong creation: the Black Truffle Essentia Milk Tea.

Elevated Craftsmanship Defines Soma’s Offerings

In a city saturated with bubble tea vendors, Soma distinguishes itself through a commitment to meticulous preparation. Unlike mass-produced alternatives, the brand emphasizes traditional techniques, including the hand-shaking, precise whisking, and expert brewing of every individual cup. This focus on craft is intrinsic to the quality that saw Soma secure the top spot at the prestigious 2019 Taiwan Milk Tea Festival for its original blend.

The new K11 Musea outpost offers patrons three core categories of beverages, catering to both traditionalists and adventurous palates:

• Soma Milk Tea: Featuring the brand’s flagship recipe, this category includes smooth, velvety tea blends that can be enjoyed plain or incorporated with inventive complementary flavors such as Italian coffee (for a unique yuenyeung twist), toasted black sesame, or almond.
• High Mountain Tea: Dedicated to tea purists, this collection showcases the robust, aromatic qualities of high-grade Taiwanese tea leaves, celebrating the natural integrity of the tea plant.
• Premium Essentia: This series highlights specialty and seasonal lattes. Currently, it features finely hand-whisked Japanese variants, including vibrant matcha and earthy hojicha.

An Exclusive Taste of Hong Kong Luxury

Demonstrating its commitment to the local market, Soma has introduced the Black Truffle Essentia Milk Tea, a Hong Kong-only specialty. This innovative fusion integrates the prized earthy notes of black truffle with Soma’s expertly prepared milk tea, promising a uniquely luxurious beverage experience that pushes the boundaries of conventional boba culture.

Beyond its current tea list, enthusiasts can also look forward to an expanded menu in the coming weeks, as the brand plans to launch its popular sparkling mocktail series, providing non-dairy and refreshing alternatives for the warmer months.

Soma Tea & Mocktail is designed to be a premium destination for beverage lovers. Located at Shop 603 on the 6th Floor of K11 Musea (18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui), the drinks are priced starting from $38. The debut elevates the standard for bubble tea in Hong Kong, offering an artisanal take on a beloved global phenomenon.

For Readers: Exploring Hong Kong’s dynamic food and beverage scene offers endless culinary adventures. For those seeking other highlights, consider revisiting the city’s top-voted venues for restaurants and bars, or keep an eye out for upcoming one-night-only dining collaborations between famed local establishments.

As Hong Kong residents enjoy a recent spell of moderate autumn weather, marked by refreshingly cooler temperatures, the Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) has issued a caution: Tropical Cyclone Fung-wong is forecast to enter the 800-kilometer proximity zone of the city starting tomorrow, November 10. The system, which recently intensified into a super typhoon category near the Philippines, is not expected to strike Hong Kong directly but will influence local weather significantly, bringing stronger winds, minor coastal flooding, and cooler conditions across the region mid-week.

The tropical cyclone, known locally as Uwan in the Philippines, currently centers approximately 310 kilometers east of Manila and is tracking toward Luzon. Early Sunday morning, Fung-wong dramatically intensified, with the Philippine state weather bureau recording maximum sustained winds of 185 kilometers per hour and gusts approaching 230 kilometers per hour. This development prompted Philippine authorities to declare the highest alert level across southeastern Luzon. Following the recent devastation caused by Typhoon Kalmaegi, which claimed over 200 lives in the Philippines, local government units there have preemptively evacuated more than 100,000 residents ahead of Fung-wong’s anticipated Monday morning landfall.

Hong Kong Prepares for Approach

In Hong Kong, the HKO plans to issue the Standby Signal No. 1 sometime after noon tomorrow. The cyclone’s closest approach to Hong Kong is presently forecasted for Wednesday, November 12, when it is expected to track approximately 400 kilometers to the east of the territory.

This trajectory means that local residents can anticipate noticeable wind increases starting late Tuesday and continuing through Wednesday.

Key Weather Impacts for Hong Kong:

• Wind: Winds will strengthen significantly from Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday.
• Temperature: The combined influence of Fung-wong and a prevailing northeastern monsoon will result in cooler, windier weather. Urban area temperatures are projected to drop to roughly 20 degrees Celsius around the middle of the week.
• Coastal Flooding: The HKO specifically warns of potential minor flooding in low-lying coastal areas, starting overnight Monday and lasting until the early hours of Tuesday.

The HKO will continuously assess the need to elevate the warning signals on Tuesday, depending upon any changes to the cyclone’s intensity, its precise track, and prevailing local wind conditions.

Looking Ahead

Current forecasts suggest that after its closest approach to Hong Kong on Wednesday, Tropical Cyclone Fung-wong is expected to track toward the vicinity of Taiwan before gradually weakening.

Residents are advised to monitor official weather updates closely, especially those living in coastal areas prone to tidal surges and low-lying coastal flooding. For the most up-to-date and authoritative information, consult the Hong Kong Observatory’s official website. Despite not facing a direct hit, the approaching system serves as a reminder of the heightened risk for tropical cyclones during this season and the importance of prepared emergency measures.

Bubble tea aficionados in Hong Kong have cause for celebration: Soma Tea & Mocktail, the acclaimed Taiwanese purveyor known for its premium tea blends, has unveiled its first permanent storefront in the city. Following a successful trial run last year at The Farmhouse Deli, the brand known for its artisanal approach to boba has established a robust presence at the high-end K11 Musea in Tsim Sha Tsui, promising both international signature drinks and exclusive local concoctions.

Elevating Hong Kong’s Tea Scene

Soma enters Hong Kong’s competitive bubble tea market with a distinct competitive edge focused on quality and craftsmanship. The brand gained significant recognition in Taiwan, notably capturing the top honor at the respected 2019 Taiwan Milk Tea Festival for its original blend.

Unlike many competitors that rely on automated processes, Soma emphasizes traditional methods—every cup is meticulously hand-shaken, whisked, and brewed using carefully selected premium ingredients. This commitment to detail ensures a smooth, richly flavored beverage aimed at connoisseurs.

The new K11 Musea location offers three primary beverage categories to cater to various palates:

• Soma Milk Tea: Featuring the award-winning original blend, these traditional milk teas are available in diverse pairing options, including unique flavors such as black sesame, almond, and even an Italian coffee infusion reminiscent of the local yuenyeung blend.
• High Mountain Tea: Dedicated to true tea enthusiasts, this collection spotlights the robust aroma and distinct profiles of high-quality Taiwanese tea leaves.
• Premium Essentia: This series encompasses specialized, hand-whisked lattes, currently featuring seasonal Japanese preparations like matcha and hojicha.

Exclusive Offerings and Future Expansion

To mark its Hong Kong debut, Soma has introduced a novel, location-specific item: the Black Truffle Essentia Milk Tea. This exclusive creation fuses the velvety texture of the brand’s signature milk tea base with the distinctive earthy aroma of black truffle, appealing to the city’s sophisticated dining trends.

Looking ahead, Soma plans to broaden its menu beyond traditional tea. Boba enthusiasts can anticipate the future arrival of the brand’s popular sparkling mocktail series, offering non-tea alternatives crafted with the same commitment to quality ingredients.

Soma Tea & Mocktail can be found at Shop 603, 6/F, K11 Musea, 18 Salisbury Road, Tsim Sha Tsui. Prices for the handcrafted teas start from $38 per drink, offering a premium experience within the bustling retail landmark.

The opening signals a continued shift towards specialized, high-quality beverage options in Hong Kong, following global trends that prioritize artisanal food and drink preparation. For those seeking an elevated twist on the classic bubble tea experience, Soma’s new flagship offers a taste of Taiwan’s acclaimed tea heritage right in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui.

As Hong Kong residents enjoy a recent spell of comfortable, autumnal weather, the calm is temporarily yielding to the threat of yet another tropical cyclone. The Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) has issued an advisory regarding Tropical Cyclone Fung-wong, which is expected to enter the 800-kilometer warning zone by tomorrow, November 10, prompting officials to prepare for potentially stronger winds and slightly cooler conditions across the region.

Fung-wong, which intensified into a super typhoon earlier today, poses an immediate threat to parts of Southeast Asia, even as the region continues to recover from the devastation wrought by Typhoon Kalmaegi just days ago. Originally named Uwan in the Philippines, the cyclone was centered approximately 310 km east of Manila as of midday and is tracking toward Luzon. Philippine authorities reported maximum sustained winds of 185 kilometers per hour, with gusts reaching up to 230 kilometers per hour. Recognizing the grave danger, the Philippine government has issued the highest alert level across southeastern Luzon, facilitating the evacuation of over 100,000 residents ahead of its anticipated landfall early Monday morning.

Hong Kong Prepares for Strengthened Winds

While Fung-wong’s most severe impact is forecast to hit the Philippines, Hong Kong will feel its peripheral effects throughout the mid-week.

The HKO anticipates hoisting the Standby Signal No. 1 sometime after noon tomorrow. Current projections indicate that the cyclone will approach its closest point to Hong Kong on Wednesday, November 12, passing roughly 400 km to the east. This trajectory suggests a noticeable increase in local wind strength, beginning late Tuesday and continuing through Wednesday.

The decision to escalate the weather warning—potentially issuing higher signals—will be made by the HKO on Tuesday. This relies heavily on three key variables: Fung-wong’s sustained intensity, its exact distance from the city, and existing local wind patterns.

Combination of Factors Bring Cooler Temperatures

The meteorological effects of Fung-wong will be amplified by an existing northeastern monsoon flowing over the southern China coast. This combination is expected to usher in a period of windy and slightly cooler weather.

What to Expect Mid-Week:

• Temperature Drop: Urban area temperatures in Hong Kong are forecast to fall to approximately 20 degrees Celsius around mid-week.
• Coastal Flooding Risk: The HKO specifically warns residents in low-lying coastal areas to be aware of the possibility of minor flooding, particularly overnight Monday into the early hours of Tuesday.

Residents and visitors should remain vigilant and adjust plans accordingly over the next few days. The immediate threat of heavy rainfall is mitigated by Fung-wong’s expected trajectory, but localized flooding remains possible along the coast.

Following its closest approach on Wednesday, Tropical Cyclone Fung-wong is forecast to continue tracking toward the vicinity of Taiwan, where it is expected to gradually weaken. Authorities will continue to monitor the cyclone’s path closely, as even minor changes can affect local conditions significantly.

For the most immediate and up-to-date weather information, the public is strongly encouraged to regularly consult the official Hong Kong Observatory website. Stay informed to ensure safety and minimize disruption during this weather event.

Suggested Next Steps:

• Monitor Official Sources: Regularly check the HKO’s official website for real-time weather updates and signal changes.
• Secure Outdoor Items: Prepare for strengthened winds by securing loose items on balconies or outside premises.
• Coastal Awareness: Residents in low-lying coastal zones should review emergency plans concerning potential flooding.

Award-winning hospitality group Black Sheep Restaurants, in partnership with Dreams & Dreams, will host an exclusive, one-night celebration of Hong Kong’s vibrant nightlife, culinary scene, and classic music on November 8 at The Peak. Dubbed “Dance Above,” the event is set to convert the normally serene locale into a high-energy dance floor, underscoring Black Sheep’s growing influential presence within the prestigious hilltop area.

The revelry will unfold at Restaurant 2, located on the first floor of The Peak Tower, welcoming attendees from 9 p.m. until 2 a.m. The choice of venue highlights the restaurant group’s strategic expansion at The Peak, where they have continually introduced new concepts over recent years. This collaboration marks an ambitious effort to inject a dynamic, late-night cultural offering into the typically quiet residential and upscale tourist district.

A Soundtrack of Nostalgia and New Energy

The evening promises a curated musical experience driven by two live DJs, focusing on a diverse blend of club classics and deeper musical cuts. Attendees can expect a dynamic soundtrack that bridges eras and genres, ensuring a continuous groove from arrival to closing.

The promised musical journey includes:

• Classic Icons: Spanning legends from Elton John and Madonna to The Rolling Stones.
• Dance Floor Giants: Featuring disco royalty like Donna Summer and influential figures such as Larry Levan.
• Alternative Gems: Including artists with global appeal like INXS.

The carefully crafted playlist is designed to cultivate an atmosphere of shared nostalgia while keeping the energy high with fresh danceable arrangements.

Culinary Indulgences Fuel the Night

True to Black Sheep Restaurants’ reputation, the event will feature an array of their signature culinary offerings, ensuring partygoers are continuously fueled for hours of dancing. These treats come directly from the group’s beloved portfolio of establishments, integrated seamlessly into the “Black Peak” (as the area has been playfully nicknamed) environment.

The ticket price includes bottomless dessert offerings, featuring irresistible indulgences from fan-favorite venues. Confirmed treats include handcrafted scoops from the acclaimed gelateria Messina and generous slices from the popular bakery Butter. While not officially confirmed, there is anticipation among attendees that savory options, such as pizzas from Falcone, may also make an appearance to complement the sweet spread.

Ticket Information and Logistics

“Dance Above” is scheduled for a single evening, November 8, at The Peak Tower. Tickets are currently available for purchase online at HK$388 per person. For those deciding last-minute, tickets will be available at the door for HK$488 per person.

Recognizing the geographical challenge of the venue, the event aims to ensure convenience for all attendees. Importantly, all ticket prices are inclusive of a complimentary shuttle service operating to and from The Peak, guaranteeing easy access and departure toward the city center throughout the night.

For complete event details, ticketing, and operational logistics, prospective attendees can visit the official website: danceabove.com.hk. This one-off collaboration solidifies Black Sheep Restaurants’ role not just as a dining operator, but as an experience curator shaping Hong Kong’s diverse entertainment landscape.

The Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) announced today that Tropical Cyclone Fung-wong is projected to enter the 800-kilometer warning zone around Hong Kong by tomorrow, November 10, prompting an anticipated No. 1 Standby Signal issuance shortly after noon. While the region currently enjoys comfortably breezy Autumn weather following a mild period, the approaching storm—which escalated to Super Typhoon status over the weekend—signals a sharp shift in conditions for the coming week, bringing stronger winds, cooler temperatures, and potential coastal flooding despite a mid-week detour.

As of midday, Fung-wong—known as Uwan in the Philippines—was situated approximately 310 kilometers east of Manila, tracking west toward Luzon. The Philippine state weather bureau reported maximum sustained winds of 185 kilometers per hour and gusts reaching 230 kilometers per hour. The storm’s rapid intensification has forced a massive civic response in the Philippines, which is still grappling with the catastrophic effects of the recent Typhoon Kalmaegi. Philippine authorities implemented the highest alert level across southeastern Luzon and successfully evacuated over 100,000 residents ahead of Fung-wong’s expected landfall early Monday morning.

Projected Impact on Hong Kong

For Hong Kong, the immediate impact centers on Tuesday and Wednesday. The HKO forecasts that Fung-wong will achieve its closest proximity to the city on Wednesday, November 12, passing roughly 400 kilometers to the east. This trajectory means residents should anticipate local winds strengthening significantly from late Tuesday and continuing through Wednesday.

Weather Outlook and Warnings

The combined meteorological influence of Fung-wong and the prevailing northeastern monsoon over the coast of southern China will usher in a period of windy and slightly cooler weather. Urban temperatures are expected to dip substantially, potentially falling to around 20 degrees Celsius by mid-week.

In addition to wind warnings, the HKO has issued caution regarding potential minor coastal flooding in low-lying areas. This risk is highest between Monday overnight and the early hours of Tuesday morning.

The HKO will continually monitor the tropical cyclone’s intensity and path. Based on these variables and local surface wind conditions, the agency will evaluate on Tuesday whether escalating to higher warning signals is necessary. Following Wednesday, the typhoon is forecast to continue tracking northeast toward Taiwan, where it is expected to gradually weaken. Residents are strongly advised to consult the Hong Kong Observatory’s official website for the most current warnings and tracking information.

| Date/Time | Alert Status | Expected Conditions |
| :—: | :—: | :—: |
| Tuesday | Strong winds begin | Increased local wind speed |
| Monday night – Tuesday morning | Coastal Flood Risk | Potential minor flooding in low-lying areas |
| Wednesday | Closest Approach | Strongest winds; temperatures around 20°C |

Staying informed is critical during tropical weather events. Hong Kong residents should prepare for adverse weather conditions, secure outdoor items, and heed all advisories from the HKO as the weather system approaches and passes the region.

Black Sheep Restaurants, in collaboration with Dreams & Dreams, is hosting an exclusive, one-night celebration of Hong Kong’s vibrant nightlife, culinary scene, and music culture, culminating in “Dance Above” at The Peak on November 8. This event leverages the restaurant group’s significant presence on the iconic mountaintop, converting a typically quiet, upscale area into a dynamic dance floor from 9 p.m. until 2 a.m.

The event is a departure from The Peak’s usual atmosphere, bringing a high-energy dance party to Restaurant 2, located on the first floor of The Peak Tower. This initiative reflects the growing trend of utilizing unique, high-profile locations for experiential, temporary nightlife events, solidifying Black Sheep’s reputation for innovative social concepts across Hong Kong.

Retro Rhythms Meet Modern Revelry

“Dance Above” is orchestrated around an eclectic mix of club classics and forgotten gems designed to induce collective nostalgia. Two live DJs will curate sets blending iconic artists across genres and eras. Attendees can anticipate a musical journey spanning from the piano pop of Elton John to the disco mastery of Donna Summer, and from the pioneering house sound of Larry Levan to the rock influence of INXS and The Rolling Stones. The goal is to ignite a “groovy dancefloor” by bridging decades of influential music.

The location choice is particularly significant given Black Sheep Restaurants’ established footprint in the area, leading some local observers to humorously dub the area “Black Peak” due to the collection of the group’s eateries situated there.

Indulgent Treats and Essential Logistics

Crucially for a Black Sheep event, the culinary offering is a significant component of the party. Guests will enjoy a delectable spread featuring signature items from the group’s popular in-house brands. This includes irresistible flavors from the gelateria Messina and indulgent slices from the bakery Butter. Event organizers are widely expected to feature additional savory fare, possibly including favorite pizzas from Falcone, ensuring partygoers remain energized throughout the late-night celebration.

To facilitate convenient access to the unique venue, the ticket price includes an essential shuttle service running to and from The Peak, mitigating transportation challenges inherent to the high-elevation location.

Key Event Details:

• What: Dance Above, featuring food, music, and drinks.
• When: November 8, 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.
• Where: Restaurant 2, 1/F, The Peak Tower, The Peak.
• Cost: Tickets are priced at $388 per person when purchased online and $488 at the door. Price includes bottomless dessert and the shuttle service.

Tickets and additional information are available through the official website, danceabove.com.hk.

This collaboration highlights how established dining institutions are proactively shaping Hong Kong’s social landscape by creating temporary, high-impact events that merge fine dining experiences with exclusive nightlife culture, offering residents and visitors a fresh way to engage with the city’s most famed locales.

Each year, discerning residents of Hong Kong weigh in to honor the city’s top establishments, providing an insider’s guide to dining, nightlife, shopping, and entertainment. This curated selection, part of a broader list of approved venues, spotlights five destinations that resonate most with locals, distinguishing themselves through quality, execution, and a deep appreciation for Hong Kong culture.

The annual assessment, spearheaded by the city’s leading lifestyle critics, compiles recommendations across various categories—from restaurants and bars to unique activities. While expert editors selected 300 top venues, identifiable by a characteristic red sticker, a separate survey of Hong Kong citizens highlighted particularly beloved spots. These reader-backed choices offer a vital perspective, ensuring that both critical acclaim and local sentiment are represented in the ultimate guide for navigating the dynamic metropolis.

Culinary Excellence: Readers Crown Amber Top Restaurant

The highly competitive dining scene saw Amber in The Landmark Mandarin Oriental emerge as the clear winner for Restaurants. For dedicated local food enthusiasts, this choice is hardly a surprise. Under the direction of Chef Richard Ekkebus, Amber transcends conventional regional or cuisine boundaries, focusing instead on exceptional produce, meticulous flavor profiles, and flawless execution. The recognition comes on the heels of another significant achievement: after maintaining two Michelin stars for 16 consecutive years, Amber recently earned a coveted three-star rating, solidifying its position among the world’s elite dining establishments.

Cocktails and Culture: Kinsman Takes Bar Honors

In the vibrant nightlife category, Kinsman was selected as the city’s favorite bar. This venue serves as a heartfelt tribute to Hong Kong itself, celebrating local traditions and heritage while placing a special emphasis on Cantonese and Chinese spirits. With a retro, evocative atmosphere reminiscent of Wong Kar-wai films, Kinsman provides an immersive experience into regional flavors. Its latest menu notably widens the focus to incorporate inspirations drawn from global Chinatowns, further emphasizing its commitment to cultural exploration through mixology.

Unmissable Activities and Sweets

For top Things to Do, residents pointed to Ryze Hong Kong, the city’s largest trampoline park. With wall-to-wall interconnected trampolines, foam pits, and rope swings, Ryze offers visitors an energetic outlet for jumping, parkouring, and flipping. It is equally popular as a surprisingly effective fitness destination.

The highly contested landscape of baked goods saw Bakehouse win the reader vote for Cafés and Bakeries by a significant margin. Known for its wide array of fresh pastries, including sourdough loaves, savory croissants, and famous flaky egg tarts, Bakehouse maintains a strong connection to local ingredients. The Causeway Bay location, for instance, offers an exclusive shio pan salt bread made using salt sourced from Hong Kong’s historic Yim Tin Tsai saltpans.

Sustainable Practices at Slowood

In Shopping, the nod went to Slowood, a sustainable lifestyle grocery popular among locals seeking environmentally friendly products. This establishment, easily accessible in locations like Kennedy Town and Central Market, encourages customers to bring their own containers to stock up on bulk items such as grains, nuts, spices, and dried fruits. Slowood acts as a crucial community hub, facilitating the reuse and recycling movement within Hong Kong’s consumer culture.

These five reader-selected venues complement the extensive list of 300 expert-approved destinations, which also feature categories like “Cheap Eats” and “Beauty and Wellness.” Together, these recommendations offer a definitive, locally informed itinerary for anyone seeking to explore the best of Hong Kong in the coming year.