An innovative and interactive new cocktail menu inspired by the Chinese Zodiac, at Fang Fang’s, one of Hong Kong’s most popular bars
To mark the anniversary of its first year and in preparation for the upcoming Christmas, New Year and the Chinese New Year celebrations, the team at Fang Fang’s Cocktail Bar brings its loyal fan base a new, interactive cocktail menu inspired by the Chinese zodiac.
The new cocktail listing builds on the popularity of the bar’s previous menu, which was based on the elements of fire, metal, wood, earth and water, central to Chinese life and philosophy. The elemental cocktails are still available along with a fine collection of spirits, wines and non-alcoholic beverages.
The new menu features concoctions inspired by the characteristics of the 12 Chinese zodiac signs, plus a surprise 13th cocktail whereby the bartender will tell your fortune with a unique, hand-crafted bespoke offering presented in one of a series of special hand-painted cocktail glasses designed by award-winning Bar Manager and Head Mixologist Gagan Gurung.
The menu is presented as an antique-style Chinese book, which unfolds to reveal a zodiac wheel of cocktails created by the passionate and inventive Gurung, who is widely acclaimed for his creative experimentation with the aromatic herbs, spices and exotic fruits found throughout the region.
One of our favourites and representing the Year of the Rat, is the Fly Me Mediterranean. In the Chinese zodiac the rat is an alert creature with spirit, wit, flexibility and vitality. Gurung’s Rat cocktail is a blend of Parmesan-washed gin mare, Sakura sake, white cacao, Bergamot and popping candy – a concoction he first created for the acclaimed Gin Mare Mediterranean Inspirations competition in Ibiza.
For the picture-perfect cocktail try the Snake-themed See Through Me. Presented with smoke that’s captured in a transparent sphere which is popped by the guest. Featuring a Bombay Sapphire gin core it represents the brilliant and humorous characteristics of the snake. While for something punchy try the Monkey-inspired Prankster with its playful combination of Rebel Yell Small Batch Rye, banana and strawberry pulp and a splash of balsamic vinegar.
Located on the eighth floor of the LKF Tower on Wyndham Street in Central, Fang Fang’s is one of the city’s leading casual nightlife spots and aside from its terrific collection of beverages offers a comfortable relaxed setting, music and an expansive menu designed to suit any palate.
Soft Skills
The Year of the Rabbit-inspired Soft Skills is a colourful concoction that can be bulk made and prepared in advance and adjusted to taste. A perfect opener for cocktail parties and celebrations.
Ingredients for 4 servings:
- 200ml milk-washed vodka (prepared one day in advance)
- 200ml carrot juice
- Magic cordial to taste (basic syrup with a splash of lemon juice)
- 200ml pulped celery
Method
- For the milk-washed vodka, – place 300ml of hot (not boiling) fresh full cream milk in a glass jug. Cover and allow to curdle, stirring occasionally – this will take several hours.
- Once the liquid begins to separate (clear at the top) add a splash of lemon juice and 200ml of vodka, stir and let rest before carefully straining.
- Pulp the celery in a blender until smooth
- Add all ingredients to a mixing jug, stir and add the magic cordial to taste.
- Store in the refrigerator and serve in a round glass tumbler with a single piece of ice.
Fang Fang’s Cocktail Bar
8/F LKF Tower, 33 Wyndham Street
Central, Hong Kong
T: (+852)29839083