Award-winning mixologists Jo Lo and Birstacla Wong, prominent figures in Hong Kong’s bar scene, have unveiled Bar Mind, a subterranean cocktail destination on Elgin Street in Central. Moving beyond conventional urban aesthetics, the venue offers an immersive, primal atmosphere—a “cocktail cave”—designed to stage their cerebral, flavor-forward drinks. Bar Mind distinguishes itself by fusing sophisticated mixology techniques with profound local Hong Kong and Cantonese influences, creating a menu where every ingredient is selected with deliberate intention.

Decoding the Design: A Primal, Theatrical Setting

Breaking free from the industrial or mid-century modern designs common across the city, Bar Mind embraces a cavernous aesthetic. The interior features textured, stone-like walls, and strategic lighting simulates a “skylight,” allowing shadows to play across rugged surfaces. This distinctive environment fosters an atmosphere that is both intimate and highly theatrical, mirroring the dramatic skill displayed by its founders.

Lo and Wong, celebrated winners of the Diageo World Class Hong Kong & Macau competition, leveraged their shared expertise and personal partnership to build this concept. Their philosophy centers on the notion that “all things begin with a thought,” translating into highly curated cocktails that encourage reflective sipping. As the latest influential bartenders of their generation to debut their own space, they ensure that the rich tapestry of Cantonese flavors forms the foundation of their innovative menu.

Intentional Sips: Cantonese Flavors Elevated

The cocktails at Bar Mind are described as layered and cerebral, designed for patrons who appreciate depth and narrative in their drinks. The menu masterfully reinterprets local culinary touchstones:

• The Cha Chaan Teng: This drink pays tribute to the beloved local classic of a poached egg in hot water. The cocktail arrives theatrically, featuring a delicate quail egg shell made of white chocolate and filled with passion fruit syrup nestled in a bed. The rum base provides tropical brightness, balanced by the acidity of tomato, serving as an excellent palate opener.
• Zen Harmony: A sophisticated twist on a savory martini, this cocktail delivers umami flavors while remaining impeccably clean and refreshing. The inclusion of yuzu provides a citrus lift, while kombu adds a nuanced saline depth. Genmaicha grounds the drink with a toasty, earthy complexity, achieving a quiet elegance.
• Savoury Sipper: Ideal for complex, slow enjoyment, this cocktail uses dashi to impart a delicate marine smokiness. This profile is amplified by the depth of Pu Erh tea and bonito bitters, creating a rich, savory experience perfect for winding down the evening.

Bar Mind maintains a rotating drink menu, ensuring continuous novelty. One recent release, the Qīng, Jiě, Zhǐ, Rùn series, transforms traditional Hong Kong herbal teas into modern alcoholic expressions, celebrating the city’s indigenous tea culture.

Beyond the Bar: Unexpected Culinary Delights

While the focus remains firmly on the expertly crafted drinks, the small food menu holds an unexpected star. The cheesy meatballs have garnered particular praise. Described as hearty and substantially better than offerings at some dedicated Italian establishments, they provide a perfect, savory counterpoint necessary to accompany the bar’s generally potent and savory-leaning cocktails.

For the most complete experience, guests are encouraged to secure a spot at the bar, directly under the “cavern skylight.” Engaging with the founders allows patrons to witness their philosophy in action, as they tailor suggestions based on individual flavor preferences.

Bar Mind, located at G/F 11 Elgin St, Central, offers not just exquisite drinks but a holistic, conceptual atmosphere, solidifying its place as a mandatory stop for enthusiasts of high-level mixology in Hong Kong.