Life in a new country can be difficult enough without having to worry about chasing romance and love – but, if you’re a singleton, this could be the key to really feeling at home. Whether you’re an expert expat and looking for some fun or you’re new to Hong Kong and need some help settling in, meeting single expats is as easy as 1, 2, 3. (Not to mention 4 to 10!) Here’s our guide to top bars for singles around the city to get you started.
Ozone Bar
Where: International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West, West Kowloon
When: This is a good spot all week with the highest bar in the world, making it a Hong Kong must-do.
Who: It’s a varied clientele here, from 20-somethings to 50-somethings; most will be tourists, so this might not be a spot for those looking for something long-term.
What: Savour a drink amidst the clouds at this sky bar and lounge atop The Ritz-Carlton.
Tip: No shorts, beach sandals, open-toe shoes or sleeveless shirts for gentlemen at Ozone after 9pm.
Ophelia
Where: Shop 39A–41A, 1/F,The Avenue, Lee Tung Ave, Wan Chai
When: Late week or weekends are best.
Who: Ophelia hosts some beautiful themed nights (check out their NYE party) so they attract a fun, beautiful crowd.
What: A chic bar with a moody interior that will have you feeling like you’ve stumbled into an opium den.
Feather Boa
Where: 38 Staunton Street, Soho
When: Weekends.
Who: Trend-setters – a local secret, this bar has seen the start (and end!) of many good nights.
What: This is a secret bar; find the green doors with the curtains, knock and wait patiently for a member of staff to let you in.
Tip: Try the best chocolate-covered strawberry daiquiri in town!
Frank’s
Where: G/F, 79 Wyndham Street, Central
When: Weekends. If you pass Frank’s on a Friday or Saturday night, you’ll see the party tends to extend out onto the street in front of it.
Who: During the week, Wyndham Street is full of suits; weekends it’s a little more relaxed, Frank’s does a record market event that draws a good crowd.
What: Frank’s is popular for its no-fuss tipples and is a great late-night party destination, due to its killer tunes and unbeatable location.
Tip: They’ve got a dining room upstairs, so you can have dinner first and then enter the fray a little later.
Terrible Baby
Where: 4/F, Eaton Hong Kong, 380 Nathan Road, TST
When: Weekdays and weekends. Check their website for gig details and special events.
Who: Artsy, edgy and cool, Terrible Baby attracts a young crowd from all over Hong Kong.
What: This place is inviting and hip (is that possible?). It’s a space that encourages mingling over delicious cocktails and great music.
Tip: If you’re into music, try Therapy Thursdays.
Zuma’s Yashoku
Where: Level 5&6 Landmark Atrium, 15 Queen’s Road Central, Central
When: On Friday nights, Zuma hosts a ‘night brunch’ called Yashoku; it’s dinner with free-flow bubbles – what can go wrong?
Who: It’s a mixed crowd of post-office dinner and friends celebrating special nights.
What: After dinner, the bar turns it up with a live DJ and dancers on the tables until the early hours.
Tip: The free-flow stops after dinner service so get those glasses topped up!
Honi Honi
Where: 3/F, Somptueux Central, 52 Wellington Street, Central
When: Any time, weekdays or weekends for cocktail hour.
Who: Relaxed 30-somethings to 50-somethings who love a fun cocktail.
What: This little bamboo shack may be tucked away in an office block, but once you’re inside it’s a haven for tiki bar fans.
Tip: Indulge in an extensive array of Polynesian rum cocktails!
Dr. Fern’s Gin Parlour
Where: B31A, First Basement Floor, Landmark Atrium, 15 Queen’s Road, Central
When: Weekends.
Who: Mid-20s to 50-somethings.
What: This newcomer to the gin bar scene was named #48 on the 2017 list of Asia’s 50 best bars within months of opening, so you know it’s going to be a top spot.
Tip: Indulge in gins mixed with fresh local herbs and botanicals – all said to be antidotes to stress!
Ping Pong 129
Where: Nam Cheong Lau, 135 Second Street, Sai Ying Pun
When: Thursdays to Saturdays.
Who: Visitors are usually on the lookout for somewhere not too crowded, and with a cool atmosphere.
What: Head here and wow your friends with huge gin and tonics in a secretive location.
Tip: Huge gin and tonics!
Other top nightspots
Don’t want something serious? No problem! Here are some top nightspots.
- Ce La Vi Hong Kong at 25/F California Tower, 30-32 D’Aguilar Street
- Dragon-i at The Centrium, 60 Wyndham Street
- Trafalgar at 5/F, 54-62 Lockhart Road, The Broadway
- Joe Bananas at The Phoenix Bldg, 23 Luard Road
- Bar 109 at 109 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai
- Bar De Luxe at 29/F, 8 Wyndham Street
Don’t like bars?
You can always meet people through the internet. We recommend Bumble, Coffee Meets Bagel or good ol’ Tinder! Alternatively, a great way to meet people is through Facebook events, festivals, art shows or more – check out our What’s On section for more.
See more in our Wine & Dine section
Restaurants with great veggie options
Asia’s best restaurants: Hong Kong winners
Dining: New venues and menus
