Break From the Market at the Highest Rooftop Bar in the World
It takes two high-speed elevator rides to reach the 118th floor topping Kowloon’s International Commerce Centre and the world’s highest rooftop bar, Ozone, at the Ritz-carlton Hong Kong, 490 meters (almost 1,608 feet) above sea level. Views of Victoria Harbor and Hong Kong Island are unequalled from the bar, which also boasts an outdoor terrace.
The look is ultra-contemporary with a honeycomb-patterned ceilings and glass, all bathed in purple light. Seating is low to boost the views. The bar’s extensive drinks list is a global assortment of premium pours, including more than 30 kinds of Champagne along with Japanese sake, wines, single malt whiskies from Scotland and Japan as well as Hong Kong’s Yau beer on tap.
Cocktails can be extravagant. Cameras should be at the ready for a social media moment when the signature spicy cocktail called Fire is served, followed by a dramatic flame burst. Nonalcoholic imbibers are well-considered: In addition to the exceptional teas, the zero-proof cocktails blend an elegant mix of non-fortified spirits, fresh juices and refined tinctures and bitters.
Bar bites are upscale. Truffle fries, chicken satay and lobster macaroni and cheese are reliable starters; finish off with a fruit plate or double chocolate brownie. Within Ozone, London’s Burger & Lobster offers an expanded menu featuring the hero ingredients, Nebraska-raised Angus beef and fresh Canadian lobsters. Main dishes creatively combine East and West culinary traditions: beef patties can be topped with barbecue mayo or marinated in Korean soya topped with kimchi slaw. Lobster is served steamed with drawn butter or deep-fried, Hong Kong style with crispy garlic, chili and scallions.
Lady Gaga is one of the many entertainment pros who’ve stayed at the Ritz-carlton Hong Kong that begins on the tower’s 103rd floor. New Year’s Eve and holidays are spectacular here with fireworks dotting the harbor below. Reservations are recommended.
Visit ozonebarhongkong.com