If you’re searching for Hong Kong’s top celebrity hangout then you should head straight to JJ’s. Situated on the ground floor of the Grand Hyatt, this sassy club-style bar overlooks Victoria Harbor In the Won Chai District. Both a musical institution and stylish restaurant, JJ’s recently went under the knife of Hong Kong based American architect John Morford, whose previous designs include the Park Hyatt Tokyo, made famous by Sofia Coppola’s award-winning film lost in translation.
With JJ’s sleek new smoky black look and lively ambience, Bill Murray’s lonely character should hove come here for a drink instead.
Although perched on the upper level, JJ’s Music Bar has a cosy atmosphere like that of a small New York Club. The walls are cluttered with black-and-white photographs of iconic musicians of which some of the more recent have been known to viSit JJ’s to listen to the mix of soul, rhythm and blues.
Dark suede banquettes and leather stools all point towards the stage, where the resident band, Wj and the Tonemasters, entertains with a mix of their own songs and a great section of covers.
Collectively it is possibly the most seasoned bond playing out of Hong Kong, having toured alongside some of the most renowned jazz and R&B artists including platinum-selling soul diva Oleta Adams, Lenny Kravitz and Beyonce.
From the Music Room, the sophisticated surroundings continue into the Lounge and Back Bor. Overlooking the restaurant, it’s an open area where guests can enjoy cocktails prepared by top mixologists.
Below, the Dining Room resumes the sultry sleek look of the Mu5ic Bar with dork steel pillars. glass walls looking out onto the hotel’s reception area and funky, art deco seating. Sparkling white tables keep the restaurant entirely modern and cool; and, in contrast with the minimalist feel, the food is informal, home-style Thai cooking with truly authentic flavour. Chef Khun Siriluck, a celebrity in Thailand, grew up inspired by the dishes her grandmother made in the Thai Royal kitchens.
Adding regional twists and on exciting range of spices and herbs, her family-style cuisine has also served the Thai Royal Family. An unlikely combination of R&B and Thai, JJ’s relaxed and fun ambience really makes it a pleasant surprise.