7 Best Nightlife in Hong Kong, China

Hidden behind an unmarked red door is one of the coolest bars in up-and-coming Sai Ying Pun. Converted from an old table-tennis parlor, the basement space serves gin and tonics in authentic Spanish G&T balloon glasses and features works by local artists on the walls. It also offers an array of Spanish-inspired snacks.

One of Hong Kong's favorite after-work watering hole, 208 sits in the middle of trendy Sheung Wan, The place serves up spot-on classic cocktails alongside authentic antipasti. Sit outside and enjoy a cocktail or three with a mostly local crowd.

This bohemian diamond-in-the-rough was named in tribute to July 1, 2003, when half a million Hong Kongers successfully rallied against looming threats to their freedom of speech. Tucked away on a terrace down a side street, the quirky, unpretentious bar is a mainstay of artists, journalists, and left-wing politicians. The outdoor area closes around midnight.

A friendly, mixed crowd of gays, lesbians, and their friends enjoys this club's free admission and open-door policy. Thursday "game nights" are a staple of the scene, luring visitors and locals alike with alternating themes such as drag bingo, trivia, or karaoke. Weekends are reliably hyper, with dance anthems filling the floor until the wee hours.

A lively spot in Kennedy Town, Missy Ho's has made a name for itself as much for the swing hanging from the ceiling and dress-up closet as for its Asian-inspired cocktails. Dark but inviting, it's the kind of place where the bartender will urge you to enjoy tequila shots on a Tuesday night. The crowd tends to be mostly young people looking to party, but all will feel welcome. A sign that Hong Kong's nightlife epicenter is moving ever westward, the bar comes into its own on weekends when it is often full to the brim with revelers.

This New York–style pub has a loyal following thanks to its excellent cocktails, a good selection of beers, and friendly service. It's a no-frills place, located across from the Sheung Wan MTR station.