As we step into the New Year, many are opting for a quieter start to 2025, dialing down on alcohol after the festive season. Whether you’re committed to a dry or damp January or simply seeking a lighter, more refreshing drinking experience, Hong Kong offers a variety of zero- and low-ABV options to keep your weekend lively without overindulging. Here’s a look at some great spots to enjoy tea-inspired or alcohol-free libations this weekend.
Friday, January 3: Starting Your Dry/Damp January
What to Try: If you’re looking for one final night out before settling into your New Year’s resolutions, Hong Kong has several spots offering light, non-alcoholic alternatives. Head to Draftland in SoHo or Causeway Bay to try the Hibiscus Fizz on tap – a vibrant, zero-ABV highball that’s as enjoyable indoors as it is on the outdoor terrace.
For those in SoHo, newer venues are expanding their menus with creative zero-alcohol cocktails. At C108, explore their Detox mocktails, which feature non-alcoholic spirits. Options include the “rum”-based Dynamite, a citrusy and sweet choice, and the “tequila”-inspired Derby, blending grenadine with ginger beer.
At The Savory Project, discover the Temperance section of the menu, offering drinks like Seed of Life, a lychee and ginger kombucha-based mocktail, and Garden to Glass, a refreshing mix of tomatoes, peppers, and non-alcoholic Seedlip Garden gin, for those craving a vegetal flavor profile.
Where to Go and When:
- C108, 15 Old Bailey Street, Central, 6:00 pm – 12:00 am
- Draftland, 63 Wyndham Street, Central, 5:00 pm – 2:00 am
- The Savory Project, 4 Staunton Street, Central, 6:00 pm – 1:00 am
Saturday, January 4: Sipping at Home
What to Try: For those who prefer staying in but still want to enjoy quality cocktails, several Hong Kong bars offer bottled versions of their signature drinks. While the holiday-themed offerings like eggnog have come to a close, The Diplomat continues to serve favorites through its online platform. Notable options include the Fish House Punch, a blend of Thai rum, cognac, peach, and black tea, or the Tarling, a gin-based concoction that promises to be a treat for your palate. Simply chill and serve with a Kaffir leaf for an easy, sophisticated drink.
For fans of agave spirits, Coa, Hong Kong’s renowned mezcal bar, offers 250ml flights of some of their best cocktails, including a coconut milk punch, mezcal negroni, mezcal Martinez, and agave old-fashioned – perfect for sipping at home with minimal effort.
If you’re craving sparkling tea, Saicho delivers both alcoholic and non-alcoholic sparkling teas, available to order online. Though their delivery service takes a little longer, their premium teas are also sold at high-end locations like Feather & Bone, 8 1/2 Otto e Mezzo Bombana, and luxury hotels such as the Peninsula, Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental, Regent, and Ritz-Carlton.
Where to Go and When:
- Coa, LG/F, Wah Shin House, 6-10 Shin Hing Street, Central, 6:00 pm – 1:00 am
- The Diplomat, LG/F, H Code, 45 Pottinger Street, Central, 6:00 pm – 2:00 am
This weekend, whether you’re heading out or staying in, Hong Kong’s vibrant cocktail scene offers plenty of options for those looking to enjoy flavorful drinks without overdoing it on alcohol. Cheers to a balanced start to the year!
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