Tucked away near the corner of Aberdeen and Staunton Streets in Central, popular Hong Kong speakeasy-style bar The Old Man serves creative concoctions inspired by the works of Ernest Hemingway. A firm staple among Hong Kong’s drinking scene, this crowd-favourite watering hole is launching its seventh menu named ‘Relations’, and telling fascinating stories while doing so.
The three-part menu explores a myriad of relationships and mutual fulfillment through bold flavours and tastes, from mentorship and rivalry to love, friendship, and family. Among the 12 new cocktails on offer, Handshake takes inspiration from Hemingway’s respect for fellow literati Ezra Pound, where a jalapeño garnish adds a refreshing kick to a crisp spirit base.
In contrast, the vodka-based For a Moment Only offers a more rounded tasting experience, where the subtle sweetness of roasted grape cordial and floral aroma of jasmine reflect the author’s impossible love for fellow poet Adriana Ivancich. The final section of the menu takes us through Hemingway’s formative influences in four earthy, herbal cocktails. In particular, Paradox delivers a warming yet bittersweet touch that perfectly mirrors the discipline and pressure imposed by the author’s own mother.
Accompanying this menu change is a slight revamp of The Old Man’s interiors. Returning guests can expect a subtle yet welcomed shift around the speakeasy’s iconic I-shaped bar. ‘Relations’ is now available for you to explore, with cocktails priced from $125 per glass.
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