The designer behind some of Asia’s most trendy restaurants and bars including Iron Fairies, Maggie Choo’s and Sing Sing Theatre, Ashley Sutton’s now (finally) taking on Hong Kong. Inspired by Hong Kong’s rich and vibrant culture, Ophelia — the first of three bars designed by Sutton — is set to bring a bit of sophistication back to Wan Chai’s nightlife.
The buzz: Much like his other concepts, Ophelia offers a whole experience with some of the most sought-after entertainment in town, ‘muses’ suspended above the bar and fantastic surrounds for a true escape from the daily grind.
The concept: Sutton has literally created a whole world for his guests to discover. The bar is hidden behind an exotic bird shop and is inspired by the upscale opium dens of the 19th century. The waitresses are dressed in cheongsams and the interiors are decorated with plush furniture, 600 thousand individually hand-painted tiles and intricate metal work.
Proud and beautiful, peacocks are the key influence here. Every detail from the bar rails and traditional Chinese archways to the 32 steel, copper and stainless steel industrial art pieces (with plumage made out of real peacock feathers) and metal fans on the terrace area incorporate are a tribute to this beautiful creature.
Drink: The cocktails are just as fabulous and feature a mix of exotic ingredients such as Asian herbs and spices, fruits and aromatics. Signatures include The Jade Cat (Iwai Japanese whiskey, Baika Ranman Ume Shu and housemade bitter green tea liqueur) and Le Plumage (Sagatiba Cachaça, blood orange, Gold Slab syrup, Shisandra Dram, lime, chilli-infused charred pineapple and green tea chocolate rim).
What’s more: Ophelia is currently offering a limited tapas menu with the kitchen helmed by Australian chef Angus Harrison. A larger menu will follow featuring more fresh and creative plates.
Ophelia, Shop 39A-41A,1/F, The Avenue, Lee Tung Avenue,Wan Chai, Hong Kong, +852 2520 1117, www.facebook.com/opheliahongkong; open from 6pm until 2am from Tuesday to Thursdays and 6pm until 3am on Fridays and Saturdays.
Yi Li Dawson
HK Editor
Yi Li is your typical half-Brit half-Chinese hybrid with a serious case of wanderlust. When not writing, she's either on the hunt for the best new cocktails, on a hike or enjoying a sinful bowl of truffle fries (and working them off at XYZ). Follow her @yilidawson on Instagram or Twitter.
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