Quinary

Quinary is a cocktail bar on Hollywood Road in Central and the creation of Antonio Lai, one of Hong Kong's best-known mixologists. It made its name with molecular mixology, applying modern kitchen techniques to drinks, and it remains a reference point for that style of cocktail in the city.

The idea is to take classic cocktails and reinterpret them with new techniques, creating multi-sensory drinks. Expect foams, airs and bubbles on top of familiar flavours, with presentation that is part of the experience. If you are new to this style, ask the bartenders to recommend something based on a classic you already like, which makes it easier to appreciate what has been changed.

The room has an industrial look, with cement floors and retro lighting that give it a moody atmosphere after dark. Time Out Hong Kong lists opening hours of 5pm to 1am from Monday to Saturday and 5pm to midnight on Sunday, which makes it a good choice for an early drink after work or before dinner, as well as for a nightcap.

The bar and its founder have been recognised several times. Antonio Lai received a Best Bartender award in 2018 and a Legend Award in 2019, and the bar won a Timeless Bar Award in 2024, a sign that it has kept its appeal for many years in a fast-changing scene. Prices are in line with Hong Kong's leading cocktail bars.

Groups of more than a few people should call ahead.

Quinary suits couples, small groups and cocktail enthusiasts who want something more experimental than a classic hotel bar. Its Hollywood Road address puts it close to several other places in this guide. Tai Kwun at 10 Hollywood Road is a short walk east, and Man Mo Temple is further west along the same road, so you could combine an afternoon of heritage with an evening drink. Bar Leone on Bridges Street and Coa on Shin Hing Street are also in Central, which makes it easy to plan a cocktail crawl across three of the city's most talked-about bars. Call the bar to check hours and availability for groups.