If you’ve been to and liked the Norwegian-inspired cafe Hjem in Sheung Wan, you would have been sad to hear that it closed earlier in April this year. However, the good news is that the hospitality power couple behind Hjem, Nelson Htoo and Elin Fu, are now opening a new Nordic cafe within the same space!
Venner, meaning ‘friends’ in Norwegian, is an all-day hangout that serves small-batch cakes, coffee, and curated natural wines. Instead of being just another pit stop for a cup of joe, the idea is for Venner to flow effortlessly from coffees and cakes to drinks and snacks as the day turns to night – the way Nordic cafes are run.
Their menu consists of baked goods that are all made in house, such as the classic cinnamon and cardamom bun ($48), rye sourdough skolebrød ($48), as well as a moreish breakfast plate ($88) with Jarlsberg cheese, homemade lingonberry jam, rye sourdough, and whipped butter. Caffeine addicts can expect medium- to light-roast coffees and ceremonial-grade matcha served straight or in seasonal flavours like matcha coconut ($55) or double matcha ($60). Some signature drinks from Hjem have also made it over into Venner, so we can enjoy their honey golden latte ($48) again.
Come evening, the focus shifts to natural wines from small producers, presented on a rotational basis and served by the glass from $88. To go with the drinks, there will also be small plates including a savoury goat’s cheese cheesecake ($98) or dates with prosciutto and brie ($48), among others. Whether you want a chill place to hang out with a good coffee or a welcoming space for drinks with mates, Venner is set to be a friendly neighbourhood eatery that’ll have regulars in no time.
Venner is located at 161 Hollywood Road, Sheung Wan, and is currently in their soft opening period.
Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Hong Kong newsletter for the best of the city, straight to your inbox
Recommended stories:
WestK unveils new season programmes, including Hong Kong’s first-ever Cabaret Festival
Hong Kong ranked as the city with the most skyscrapers in the world
Hongkongers prioritise health and longevity more than ever – but men would rather focus on tech