Address: Nam Cheong Lau, 135 Second St, Sai Ying Pun
Website: www.pingpong129.com
Yet another speakeasy to join an ever growing list in Hong Kong. Converted from previously ‘Ping Pong training grounds’, Ping Pong 129 serves Gin and mostly Gin. So if you don’t like Gin this may not be the place for you, though they do have a few other liquor and wines on their menu. Why go to a secret bar that only serves Gin you ask? But for their innovative cocktails, mixologists and a vast selection of Gins from all around the world, with emphasis on Spain and UK.
Ping Pong 129 Gintoneria sits disguised amongst local establishments on second street in Sai Ying Pun. First glance you simply notice a red door, unsure whether that is in fact a bar. Enter and you are led down a set of stairs into a dimly, red lit room, with a Chinese-European themed design. Boasting a Chinese Neon sign spelling ‘training the body’ in Cantonese , and a floor to ceiling stack of Gin, is the first thing you notice.
It was barely 10 and the bar was already packed full with expats, hipsters and young business folk alike. I recommend booking in advance if you prefer a table, as the bar can be quite claustrophobic with barely room to stand.
We decided on 2 cocktails;
Martin Millers with juniper berries and citrus notes, that is both a refreshing and the stronger cocktail of the 2, with a touch of fruitiness; and
Raseberry infused gin, a more fruity and summery drink that includes elderflower and raseberries. This is the quintessential girly drink that can appeal to even those who don’t normally drink Gin. The perfect start to an evening of drunkenness.
Verdict:
Its a shame that the bar was so packed, if not I would’ve stayed for a few more drinks. The menu was full of unique cocktails and are refreshed regularly. There was no chance for me to try the nibbles or bar bites, as all the tables were booked and there was already a long line of walk-ins waiting to be sat.
Overall, this bar is worth coming back to sample the quality cocktails, but the wait is certainly not worth it.
I highly recommend booking ahead so you can be more relaxed and slowly enjoy the offerings at Ping Pong 129.
Please leave a comment below, so we can compare notes on our experiences at Ping Pong!
What are your favorite hang outs near Sai Ying Pun?
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