One of the most interesting things about Central is that there is a good mix of both fancy and modern versus old and traditional eateries. They somehow co-exist to form this vibrant and eclectic gastronomical scene in the pulsating heart of Hong Kong. In a nondescript lane an offshoot from Wellington Street sits Tastings Wine Bar. It’s a nice place to go for pre- or post-dinner drinks. Happy Hour runs from 5-8pm.


Bottles of wine stored in sleek fridges for tastings. You slot a pre-paid card in and you choose whether you want a tasting portion, half-glass or full-glass. It’ll also be able to record the wines you’ve tried so that you can keep track of the ones you’ve had.


The bar


My friend, R, and I ordered the Happy Hour appetiser platter that consisted of buschettas, mini beef slices and cherry tomatoes on a small slice of baguette, and bite-sized slices of pizza. I had a Riesling and he a Cabernet Sauvignon. Loved the beef slices with cherry tomatoes, but the other two tasted very ordinary.


The cellar


You can also their cheese platter. Take your pick of three cheeses that are on their menu. We had the roquefort, parmesan reggiano and brie de meaux. There’s also blue cheese available for those who love them.
We left at about 7.45pm, having hung out there for close to 1.5 hours already. By that time, the place was filled with young, mobile professionals in Central who has just knocked off work. It’s a pretty nice spot to hang out for wine lovers. I also like the idea of allowing people to buy tasting portions so that they don’t have to burn a huge hole in their wallet in order to try a new wine.
Tastings Wine Bar, Basement
Yuen Yick Building, 27 & 29 Wellington Street
Central, Hong Kong
Tel: 2523 6282