Mark Tjhung finds value and views down on the Central waterfront

Discovery Forest

Hidden atop the DB ferry pier is this unassuming, unglamorous gem. Simple pinkish/red chairs are scattered around the bar, surrounded by wild animal drawings – a not-entirely-successful attempt at making this bar feel forestial. But they serve up cheap drinks with awesome views, and live music most nights of the week – what more could you want? Pier 3 Garden, 3579 8662.

The Beer Bay

One of the best known hole-in-the-wall booze sellers in the city, the two Beer Bays stock the broadest range of boutique brews around these parts. And at exceptional value. Pints of Hoegaarden and Stella go for $28, but if you’re looking for something a little more daring, grab the excellent Whale’s Tale Pale Ale ($30), and enjoy it standing at the tables on the waterfront. Pier 3 & 4, 9080 6814.

Java Java Snack Shop

If you’re in need of a quick beer on the run, bypass the giant chains 7-Eleven and Circle-K and pop down to Lamma Pier’s small-business alternative. This snack- and newsstand also offers some decent beers like Asahi ($16), Grolsch ($26), or for the wine inclined, $20 red by the cup. Pier 4, no phone.

Uncle Russ Coffee

While this corner counter is better known for its coffee, it also punches above expectation on the booze front. Offering a quality selection of Belgian beers including Chimay ($33), as well as Monty Python’s Holy Grail ($35), Uncle Russ can provide a nice brew (of the alcoholic variety) for you to savour on your way to Mui Wo. Pier 6, no phone.

Pier 7

Located on the roof of the Star Ferry Terminal, this café and bar is the most comfortable spot on Central Piers to enjoy a drink. While the brown/beige couches inside are nicely protected from the weather, the cool, wooden deck outside is Pier 7’s supreme selling point. Grab a cocktail, some bubbly, or a fine wine from the full bar, and relax to some chilled beats in the open air. Shop M, Roof Viewing Deck, Pier 7, 2167 8377.

Food: Kaiser Deli

The Central Piers are a surprising haven for cheap eats. But nothing demonstrates value and quality like Kaiser Deli’s Sandwich of the Day – a $22 gourmet fill before you embark on your sea journey. Shop A, Lower Deck, Pier 7, 2167 8989.