L/G, 17-19 Hollywood Rd
Central, Hong Kong
+852 2522-0281
www.thewoods.hk
Price: $$
Recommendation: 5 Stars
My best mates all know that I am always on the hunt for the next best things. My obsession with the “new” is rather extreme, but it has also inspired me to find some of the most exciting bars and restaurants around town (and I will not stop!). With that said, there’s one bar in the drunken LKF and Soho neighbourhood that never stops to impress me. I can’t help but keep returning for more of the original yet delicious cocktails at The Woods!
The Woods is a gorgeous underground bar on Hollywood Road with an inconspicuous entrance on the street level that leads to stairs to where the actions are. As the name suggests, elements of the wood are seen throughout the stylish design of the lounge with brown leather chairs and bronze finishing on the furniture. Albeit having a modern and somewhat edgy decor, The Woods’ atmosphere is welcoming for both mature and younger drinkers whether for a chill night out or an upbeat pre-game before hitting the clubs.
Uniquely created by the mixologists, the menu features a range of sensational cocktails and shooters including classic offerings as well as innovative seasonal drinks that rotate 4 times a year. I must say all the (countless) cocktails I have tried at The Woods were amazing and will most definitely make you want to order one after another because they are just that awesome. A fun and playful night is pretty much guaranteed at this Hong Kong favourite, especially when you are surrounded with the always smart and handsome crowd at The Woods.
Chamomile Bee's Knees
Chamomile & vanilla infused Sipsmith gin, local honey, fresh lemon juice
The lovely cocktail was as fragrant as a diptyque candle with layers of the chamomile and vanilla scents.
Strawberry Rhubarb Shrub
Tito’s Vidka, homemade strawberry-rhubarb shrub with apple cider vinegar, soda, rhubarb bitters
Strawberry and ruhbarb are a known perfect match, but the apple cider vinegar added another flavour and intensity to the delightful cocktail. Love the balanced combination of sweet, sour, and bitterness.
(source: www.thewoods.hk)
Jeff Koons-inspired Balloon Olive Martini
Poddington Pea
Edinburgh Gin, fresh snow peas, green chartreuse, fresh green apple juice, tarragon, fresh lemon juice, pea sprouts, egg white
The lightly sweetened gin-based drink displays hints of the snow peas aroma – almost feels like it is healthy!
Tom Yum Shooters
Kaffir lime leaf infused vodka, lemongrass syrup, fresh lime juice, Thai chilli
After a workout one day, Emilio insisted Lauren and I try the signature Tom Yum shooters. My immediate reaction was "What?". Mixing tom yum and vodka has got to be the worst idea ever. But surprisingly, the Thai spices and herbs mix extremely well with the flavored vodka and secret mixers. I love the intense Thai herbal aroma, followed by a spicy kick from the chilis.
Four Pepper Margarita
Bell pepper & jalapeno-infused Ocho Blanco Tequila, fresh lime juice, agave nectar, lime zest salt rim
Another signature: the spiced up version of the popular margarita is mixed with a variety of peppers that bring out the fiery taste that makes the drink irresistible.
Watermelon cilantro
Kaffir lime infused vodka, lime juice, watermelon juice, cilantro, chilli, black pepper
Lavender Tom Collins
Basil Daiquiri
Peach Pear
Cookie skillet with vanilla ice cream
After a few drinks when the stomach starts screaming for food, the made-to-order cookie skillet is a must try!
…and many more cocktails I didn’t feature!
The Woods can be busy even during weekdays, so get there early and drink on!
*pardon the photo quality. all photos taken from a smartphone. @the_aftertaste on instagram
