For ski bums and outdoor enthusiasts who are dreaming of colder weather, I recommend checking out this new lounge to take you way.
Named after mountaineering base Hakuba in Japan’s picturesque Nagano area, the bright, tastefully decorated bar is inspired by the alpinist lifestyle. It reminds me of a warm and inviting ski lodge, serving up delicious cocktails and giving access to a camping-inspired outdoor space. Lounge Hakuba is waiting to be discovered as a pit stop for drinks after work or as a chilled place to get together with friends at the weekend.
While you could turn to the array of spirits listed on a separate menu, this modern après-ski lounge is a mix of quirky, original creations and riffs on classic cocktails with a Japanese twist. A must-try signature is the rum-infused coffee cocktail called Breakfast in the Alps ($118). Shaken with hojicha liqueur and sweetened with buckwheat syrup, the chocolate bitters enhance the coffee flavour. This drink is paired with a small tumbler of milk for added creaminess.
For a more straightforward concoction, the citrus-centric Morning Dew ($138) was refreshing and earthy, made with tonic, lemon and Italicus liqueur.
I preferred the above drink to its fruity counterpart, Roku Syndrome ($128). This elderflower- and sudachi-flavoured cocktail is essentially a liquid form of a lemon hard candy – a little too sweet for my taste.
I enjoyed the pretty End of Autumn ($108), containing yellow chartreuse, gin and pineapple. Each sip burst with a bit of sweetness thanks to the icing-sugar snow, with a potent, shiso-flavoured ending.
Another popular signature, Purple Skis ($128) is a particular hit amongst the female crowd at Lounge Hakuba. The sake-based cocktail is delicately decorated with dried rose petals and lavender buds that sit atop egg-white foam, while sakura and citrus dance on the palate.
Verdict
The cocktails at Lounge Hakuba are playful and mostly gin based. With an omakase shisha menu, Japanese small bites and drinks at discount prices during happy hour, this bar should definitely be considered if you work in the Causeway Bay area. The use of Japanese imported liquors gives an edge to this bar.
Shop 302, 3/F, TOWER 535, 535 Jaffe Road, Causeway Bay, 2111 1707
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