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Bar Leone

Italian Cocktail

11-15 Bridges St, Central

OUR SCORE

average rating is 2 out of 5

2

ACCOLADES

REVIEW & BAR SUMMARY

In Hong Kong's vibrant SoHo district, Bar Leone transforms the art of Italian hospitality into an extraordinary cocktail experience, where Lorenzo Antinori's philosophy of *cocktail popolari*—cocktails for the people—creates an atmosphere of warmth and authenticity rarely found in Asia's luxury bar scene.

Bar Leone represents the first solo venture of renowned Italian mixologist Lorenzo Antinori, whose distinguished career at Caprice Bar and Argo at the Four Seasons Hong Kong established him as one of Asia's most respected bartenders. Opening in mid-2023, this Roman-inspired sanctuary achieved the unprecedented feat of debuting at No. 1 on Asia's 50 Best Bars list during its first anniversary celebration. Antinori's vision strips away pretension and complexity, focusing instead on genuine Italian family values and the convivial spirit of traditional Trastevere neighborhood bars. This community-driven approach has earned Bar Leone recognition as Best Bar in Asia 2024, cementing its position among the world's finest cocktail destinations.

The cocktail program at Bar Leone Hong Kong celebrates the perfection of classic cocktails through meticulous execution and premium ingredients, deliberately avoiding gimmicky techniques or elaborate presentations. Antinori's menu showcases elevated interpretations of timeless favorites, each crafted with the precision that earned him international acclaim while maintaining approachable familiarity. The bar's signature drinks reflect this philosophy of accessible excellence, utilizing carefully selected spirits and traditional methods to create consistently exceptional cocktails. Rather than chasing trends, the program focuses on what Antinori calls "authenticity and simplicity," ensuring every drink tells a story of Italian craftsmanship. Premium craft cocktails are complemented by thoughtfully curated food pairings that enhance the convivial dining experience.

The intimate space recreates the warmth of a Roman neighborhood bar, with design elements that encourage interaction and foster genuine connections between guests and staff. The deliberately unpretentious interior prioritizes comfort over ostentation, creating an atmosphere where both first-time visitors and regulars feel immediately welcomed into the Bar Leone family. Service embodies Italian hospitality at its finest, with staff delivering attentive care without the aloofness sometimes associated with award-winning establishments. The bar's layout promotes community engagement, while maintaining the sophisticated ambiance expected by Hong Kong's discerning cocktail connoisseurs. Smart casual dress code ensures accessibility while preserving the refined atmosphere.

Bar Leone reservations are highly sought after, particularly following its meteoric rise to international recognition. This little piece of Trastevere in Hong Kong offers an escape from the city's fast-paced energy, providing solace through authentic Italian warmth and world-class mixology that defines modern luxury hospitality.

Bar Leone

11-15 Bridges St, Central

NEARBY BARS

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