Sugar
Where? East Hotel is located in Hong Kong Island’s eastern quarter, and its rooftop bar Sugar is known as one of the classiest watering holes for corporates based in the office-heavy district of Taikoo Shing.
Why go? Boasting a panoramic view of Victoria Harbour 32 floors up, Sugar is a popular event
space that’s able to host groups of between 20 and 190 people. The bar’s flexibility is a key draw, as it’s able to convert from casual barbecue meeting layout to an elegant rooftop bar and deck with DJ and cocktail setup for up to 100. Teambuilding activities, award ceremonies and product launches have been hosted here, and canapé menus and buffet formats are available.
Foreign Correspondents’ Club
Where? The FCC has endured multiple relocations since it
was founded in 1943, but it settled into its current spot in a former
ice-storage building on Ice House Street in 1982. A stalwart from
Hong Kong’s pre-handover days, the FCC is an institution among resident journalists and a favourite with corporations looking to host small to medium-sized events. It regularly hosts talks by visiting politicians, authors and other notable speakers that pass through town.
Why go? A historic Grade II listed building, the FCC has a number of venues available for hire, including the upstairs Dining Room, which has a private veranda with audiovisual facilities, the Hughes and Burton rooms which serve as private dining annexes, and bistro basement restaurant Bert’s, where jazz musicians entertain guests on certain nights of the week. The FCC is known for traditional gourmet pub fare, but is also lauded for its curries, which are considered some of the best in Hong Kong by seasoned members.
Salon de Ning
Where? Located below Hong Kong’s historic Peninsula Hotel, Salon de Ning is a speakeasy-themed lounge that exudes the glamour of 1930s Shanghai with its art deco interiors. Its four distinct rooms were designed to house fictitious Shanghai socialite Madame Ning, and the lounge hosts live entertainment with a rotating programme of comedy and musical acts nightly.
Why go? Alongside an enviable cocktail selection including the signature Ning Sling, Salon de Ning’s appeal lies in its ability to host multiple events in one location, thanks to four semi-private lounges. Each is decorated with a theme such as the Boudoir Room, the Ski Room, the Bailar Room and L’Afrique Room. The rooms can accommodate between eight and 20 for cocktails or seated, and are ideal for themed, intimate gatherings.
One-Thirty One
Where? While most planners choose to host events within the convenient environs of Hong Kong Island, One Thirty One in Sai Kung is worth the 30-minute or so journey north into the New Territories’ countryside. Located in a three-storey Mediterranean-style house, this European restaurant offers fine dining for groups seeking respite from the city, and is regularly booked out for corporate functions. With outdoor seating looking out to Mirs Bay and mainland China, the kitchen can accommodate 25 covers at a time.
Why go? Groups hankering for a taste of seasonal Europe need look no further, as menus are inspired by what’s on offer in local markets, with ingredients sourced from organic produce grown in neighbouring farms. The menu changes every month to ensure that returning groups can expect a new experience on every visit.
Alchemy
Where? Tucked a few streets up from Lan Kwai Fong on Arbuthnot Road, Alchemy presents one of the more mysterious experiences for groups in the city. Opened in 2014, the restaurant offers guests
the chance to ‘dine in the dark’ which, although not a new concept,
is popular with corporates looking to entertain clients with
‘something different’.
Why go? It’s hard to forget a meal eaten without the use of your eyes. The experience is languid and suspenseful, and neatly highlights our dependency on the ability to see. After leaving valuables (including mobile phones to avoid light pollution) in a locker, guests are led into a pitch-black room by a visually impaired waiter, who guides you through the meal. It’s tough trying to feed yourself in the dark while trying to work out what’s on your plate, and diners are likely to feel a sense of accomplishment once finished. The restaurant serves between three and five courses and the venue is available for buyout. Guests are recommended not to wear any light colours or silk.
