CHOYA GINZA BAR, HONGKONG
From Features Desk
Visiting CHOYA Bar in Causeway Bay was a
journey into the fascinating world of plum wine, a
discovery that transformed my understanding of
what a good drink can be. As a child, I had
secretly watched adults savoring their drinks with
a mix of admiration and envy. Back then, that
elusive “adult taste” was a mysterious promise
that remained unfulfilled. My early encounter with
beer left me with a bitter aftertaste, making me
resistant to consuming alcohol. However, nothing
could prepare me for the gentle allure of plum
wine.
Stepping into the CHOYA Ginza BAR, I
immediately sensed a unique blend of
contemporary elegance and traditional Japanese
charm. Designed after its flagship store in Ginza,
Tokyo, this bar did not just serve drinks but
offered a cultural experience. The décor blended
minimalism and culture, creating a cozy yet
refined space. It became clear that the art of
imbibing here was elevated by the fusion of
tradition and innovation.
The bar’s specialty was, of course, plum wine – an
offering that has captured hearts with its sweet
and sour taste, low alcohol content, and reputed
health benefits. One of the highlights of my visit
was the beautifully crafted cocktails that the
bartenders expertly mixed. Each cocktail, unique
in its flavor and presentation, underscored the
versatility of plum wine. I sampled three of the
March limited-edition cocktails, each revealing a
creative twist that could only be achieved by
combining the gentle allure of plum wine with
other ingredients.
One drink, in particular, caught my attention: a cocktail with a robust alcohol concentration yet remarkably smooth and accessible on the palate. It was complemented by hints of fruit peel, a nod to the refreshing nuances one finds in a well-made beverage.
One drink, in particular, caught my attention: a cocktail with a robust alcohol concentration yet remarkably smooth and accessible on the palate. It was complemented by hints of fruit peel, a nod to the refreshing nuances one finds in a well-made beverage.
Another remarkable creation was the “Pomelo
Whisper.” Presented with an innovative ice base
designed to preserve the cool temperature of the
cocktail, this drink was both a visual delight and a
refreshing treat. The addition of grapefruit wine
and fresh grapefruit pieces not only heightened
the flavor but also showcased the bar’s
commitment to creativity, thus adding to the
convivial atmosphere, and inviting guests to
explore and enjoy each unique concoction
without reservation. It’s subtle citrus notes
lingered just long enough to make the
experience truly memorable.
Beyond drinks
Beyond the exquisite drinks, what truly resonated with me was how CHOYA Bar redefined my relationship with alcohol. Unlike the harshness of early beer experiences, plum wine celebrated here, embraced everyone with its accessibility and gentle appeal. The drink’s natural sweetness and adaptable nature made it an ideal choice for a casual after-work indulgence, especially in a city where nightlife is as vibrant as the East-meets-West cultural blend.
Beyond the exquisite drinks, what truly resonated with me was how CHOYA Bar redefined my relationship with alcohol. Unlike the harshness of early beer experiences, plum wine celebrated here, embraced everyone with its accessibility and gentle appeal. The drink’s natural sweetness and adaptable nature made it an ideal choice for a casual after-work indulgence, especially in a city where nightlife is as vibrant as the East-meets-West cultural blend.
In essence, my evening at CHOYA Ginza BAR was
a revelation. It was more than a simple night out;
it was a sensory exploration of flavors, aromas,
and cultural narratives that reimagined the
concept of drinking. The bar not only introduced
me to the depth and flexibility of plum wine but youthful memories of longing for an “adult
taste”, now fulfilled in the most delightful way.
This experience remains a cherished reminder
that sometimes, the right environment, coupled
with innovation in the art of mixology, can
transform even the most hesitant drinker into an
enthusiastic connoisseur.
Since its opening in September 2024, the bar has
quickly established itself as a standout success,
attracting over 5,000 guests in just six months.
Impressively, 70 percent of its patrons are
women, who are drawn to the venue by the
distinctive appeal of the CHOYA Ume brand and
its exclusive Ume food-pairing menu. This strong
response highlights the growing popularity of
premium, experience-driven dining concepts
among discerning consumers.
