Urban sleep
Hong Kong’s highly competitive hospitality offering ensures a choice of iconic five-star hotels that have taken prime real estate including The Peninsula, Island Shangri-La, Ritz Carlton, Four Seasons, Conrad and InterContinental. But for true luxury, the Swire Hotels group is certainly making waves in elite cosmopolitan cognoscenti circles: those in the know now stay at The Upper House, where the ‘butler-style’ of thoughtful attention to detail pervades every level of hospitality. Situated in the heart of Admiralty above Pacific Place, the hotel was designed by architect André Fu, who’ has created a luxury destination that optimises every vista. upperhouse.com
Spa escape
While most spas cater mostly for women, the Mandarin Oriental Spa is a distinctively unisex escape. The 1930s styling appeals to an elite clientele seeking the ultimate tranquil indulgence ranging from healing traditional Chinese therapies such as Chinese meridian massages using acupressure to improve your chi to more modern treatments like the Digital Wellness Escape that helps guests to digitally disconnect and alleviate stress. mandarinoriental.com/hong-kong
Rooftop cocktails
Hong Kong is the city of rooftop bars. In the Central district, Sevva takes pride of place in Prince’s Building. However, if you are looking to explore the sin side of the city or are up for a romantic date, wander through to Wan Chai to Wooloomooloo Steakhouse. Above this iconic eatery is the ultimate viewing deck overlooking the heart of Hennessy Road that offers the background tinkle of a DJ while guests sip stylishly on cocktails. sevva.hk; wooloo-mooloo.com
Experimental dinner
Global chefs have applied their signature to Hong Kong, bringing a constellation of Michelin stars to ensure that gourmands can explore the likes of Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Joël Robuchon and Pierre Gagnaire. But those in the know are seeking out Uwe Opocensky – he has worked for Ferran Adria at El Bulli – who has opened his eponymous restaurant, Uwe, which he personally steers. It’s been sold out since it opened with a highly considered six-course tasting menu that challenges the senses. Book well in advance to avoid disappointment. uwe.com.hk
At Ecriture, executive chef Maxime Gilbert draws on French cooking techniques and inspiration from neighbouring Japan, selecting seasonal ingredients from both France and Japan to craft an ever-evolving menu. It’s atop H Queen’s in Central, and the minimalistic interior is like an artist’s blank canvas, blending soft organic wallpaper with a symmetrical copper ceiling. The beignet of Hokkaido scallop and black truffle is a must-taste. lecomptoir.hk/ecriture