The Skyline From Sevva
Photo Courtesy of Sevva
As soon as the heat and humidity wind down in Hong Kong, everyone flocks to the rooftops to take advantage of the glorious fall and winter weather. On your next trip, check out these spectacular perches for tasty treats, tempting cocktails and a bird’s eye view of the city.
The Lawn
Tucked away on the sixth floor of Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star The Upper House hotel in the Admiralty area, The Lawn feels like a beautiful garden oasis surrounded by the city’s iconic architecture. During the day, the quiet corner is illuminated by sunlight while candles lead diners into the intimate evening hours. The verdant spot doesn’t serve a full menu, but there are plenty of light bites to sate afternoon cravings and, since you’re at the Upper House, you know the food’s going to be top-notch. Look for an edited menu of sandwiches and cheese boards, fresh cocktails, crisp beers and a several half-bottles of wine that makes for a very relaxing afternoon.
The Backyard, Photo Courtesy of The Backyard
The Backyard
A hidden gem on the fourth floor of Cordis Hong Kong at Langham Place (formerly Langham Place, Hong Kong), The Backyard effectively transports guests a world away from the chaotic streets of Mongkok below. A beautifully manicured garden of mango trees stretches across 6,000 square feet, with red lanterns adding a touch of authentic Hong Kong. The cocktail menu is as fresh as the surroundings, with a menu featuring champagne, signature sangria and 20 kinds of beer. Indulge in a low-key lunch or lingering evening meal with the restaurant’s gourmet pizzas, wings and crostini.
Sevva
Despite its opening in 2008, Sevva — the restaurant’s name is pronounced “savour” and means “to serve from the heart” in Sanskrit — is still one of the hottest rooftop spots to see and be seen in Hong Kong. Serial entrepreneur Bonnae Gokson is the brains behind the concept. She also runs Ms B’s Cakery and C’est La B cafe. Meant to resemble a chic apartment with lots of intimate nooks and corners, Sevva has an apt location in Prince’s Building, one of Hong Kong’s most luxurious shopping malls. The kitchen serves a mix of Chinese, Indian and European cuisine that reflects the international experience in Hong Kong. As for the rooftop, with its enormous wrap-around terraces, you’ll get glorious views of the city skyline and harbor.
Sugar, Photo Courtesy of Sugar
Sugar
Famous for its sweeping views of Victoria Harbour, Sugar has a unique vantage point from the eastern end of the harbor. Perched on the 32nd floor of East, Hong Kong hotel in Taikoo Shing, the lounge bar offers plenty of seating where you can enjoy wine, sangria, sake and reimagined takes on classic libations. For those who like a nibble with their tipples, the food roster includes gourmet pizzas, Cajun fries, grilled meats and fresh seafood dishes, all for sharing. On Tuesday nights, the 3,000-square-foot bar transforms into a Tiki paradise complete with all the obligatory thematics — picture tiki torches, mugs and masks alongside Polynesia-swayed cocktails designed by guest bartenders John O’Toole and Tom Wood, who, incidentally, was Hong Kong’s Diageo Reserve World Class Bartender of the Year in 2012.
Fu Lu Shou
Hidden in a dingy old commercial building, Fu Lu Shou is one of the best addresses on the rooftop dining and drinking scene. In speakeasy-like fashion, you must check the Facebook page or call ahead (2336-8812) to get the daily door code. Once inside, a creaky elevator takes you to the 7th floor where a colorful space covered in spectacular graffiti art awaits. The establishment marries western Chinese-influenced comfort foods — think Kung Pao chicken and gigantic siu mai dumplings — with creative cocktails. Grab a seat in one of the birdcage-inspired swings or at a high top to enjoy city views.
