Where can you go for a decent glass of vino or a creative cocktail in an interior that sees Victorian England meet 21st century Hong Kong? Post 97, we say. Sitting in the heart of LKF, the international bistro and bar has just been revamped and renovated, opening to great applause. The new-look bar area is dimly lit by candles and the slick mahogany screams class. In fact, the interiors are an eclectic mix of new and old, antique style and modern chic. It works. Well.
Detox punch, $128 (left)/ Pear and sage sour, $118 (right)
Post 97 is all about the raw ingredients in the booze. Immediately drawn to the more unusual signature artisanal cocktails, we start off with a ‘detox punch’ ($128) and a ‘pear and sage sour’ ($118). The former combines fresh bell peppers, pineapple juice, gin and agave syrup. If this is detoxing, we may need to detox more often as it tastes darn good. The tangy pepper juice hits first, followed by the sweet pineapple and agave syrup before the gin nestles home. The latter, a clever twist on the classic, is equally pleasing with the gentle sage essence working in harmony with the silky pear flavours and vodka perfectly. These are outstanding cocktails.
The botanist brew ($128)
In the mood for a nibble, we order some Iberico pork and duck rillettes ($84), which comes with a notable assortment of pickles. Although tasty, with rich gamey notes in the pâté-like mix, it’s also a tad too creamy. So we treat ourselves to one more tipple – the ‘botanist brew’ ($128), a blend of earl grey tea-infused gin with vermouth bianco, cardamom and lemon juice. To our delight, the taste impresses, with the zesty citrus undercurrent blending beautifully with the subtle earl grey’s bitterness.
All in all, we leave the newly refurbished and relauched bar extremely satisfied. Creative and tasty drinks, good food and a relaxed old-meets-new atmosphere. Life really is better, Post 97. Alice Jenkins
Post 97 UG/F, 9 Lan Kwai Fong, Central, 2810 9331; post97.com.