Nestled at 29 Gough Street in the vibrant NoHo area, in that odd space between Central and Sheung Wan which is a nightmare to get to on a rainy day in a red cab (I write with a lot of experience), MIUS [pronounced "muse" but Alexa that and land up elsewhere, hence the all caps spelling], has quickly become one of Hong Kong's most talked-about cocktail bars since opening its doors in late August 2025.
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| Shelly Tai |
Founded by award-winning bartender Shelley Tai, the venue marks her triumphant return home after nearly five years abroad, where she managed Singapore's acclaimed Nutmeg & Clove (ranked #6 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars in 2024). There are 8,926 licensed bars operating in Hong Kong [yes, I checked] in the tiny dot of an island and the trickling pool of customers have options galore, venues tightly knit next to each other so waiting is not an option for the well-heeled. Note a line streaming out of a bar, waiting in impatient scroll, you know the venue is either really good [Coa, Bar Leone], or its new with either hype or hyperbola trending on social media.
I landed at the venue soon after MIUS opened and am happy to report its pretty damn good. As all are spoilt for choice in the city, you really aren't going to a bar for their novel drinks and the aerated promises of a tattooed mixologist, you're going to follow the cult of personality; Bar Leone does better when Lorenzo's in town and without Jay Khan's ever-smiling face, Coa wouldn't be what it is either. I was told about Shelley long before I met her; she's gorgeous and she's gifted. Both, I've witnessed.
A former Quinary talent [which is a street above and across the street - like I said, choices], Tai brings world-class expertise and her famed World Class championship pedigree to her first independent project. The name MIUS playfully twists “muse,” reflecting Tai’s philosophy of “simple things, done right.” The bar embodies a welcoming neighbourhood vibe rather than flashy spectacle—think mid-century modern decor with neutral tones, clean lines, high ceilings, reflective surfaces, and warm wood accents that create an elegant yet generally unpretentious atmosphere.
The menu focuses on modern classics and approachable cocktails, most using no more than six ingredients for balance and precision. Standouts include the refreshing Tomatotini (vodka-based, savoury twist, introduced to me by Christy Liang who swears by it--word of mouth does well in the 852), the cozy warm Matcha Mori (hot whisky with matcha, coconut, and salted vanilla cream), the fruity Guava Oolong Float (sparkling sake with sorbet), Strawberry Negroni, and the beloved Gin & Apple.
Beyond drinks, MIUS pairs cocktails with comforting bar bite staples like fries and hearty plates that blend Asian influences, turning it into a true hangout spot. Prices range from the accessible to the elevated, so look carefully; the prices are not on whim, the quality of the ingredients is top-notch.
While on a lonesome media tasting, I found the place to be perfect for Hong Kong’s youth and dare-I-suspect, many a first-date situation. It attracts younger crowds eager for its relaxed energy, sharp pours, and genuine hospitality. It feels approachable and comfortable, designed for easy conversation with friends or bartenders, with gentle music levels and a no-pretension approach, although I've been warned by others that the place gets busy quickly and is riddled with the young and the restless, while the rest of us might have to wait in line--unless you know someone, who knows someone, who can get you a high-barstool quickly.
High-concept bars are dime-a-dozen, MIUS stands out for its focus on enjoyment over showmanship—proving that thoughtful simplicity can create something truly special.
MIUS
Address: 29 Gough Street, Central, Hong Kong (Sheung Wan/Central area, walk-in only)
Instagram: @mius.hongkong
Opening hours: Monday–Sunday, 5 PM to 1 AM
Postscript: next week, will let you know about Peridot, which everyone's talking about... unkindly. Great views, awful food, photogenic interiors with vile vegan cheese. Great staff, but an expensive venue. I want to like the place, but like Natalie Imbruglia and my shower curtain, I am torn.
Also, my how the mighty hath fallen; whatever is going on at 11 Westside?!
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