Relaxed vibe at rooftop terrace bar and eatery – inspired by a retro Western-Chinatown demeanor
February 25th, 2015
Lively and crowded with happy customers, Fu Lu Shou is a Hong Kong rooftop venue with a difference, notable for both its relaxed and fun approach, and its idiosyncratic take on “Westernised – Chinese” cuisine and cocktails. The founders of Fu Lu Shou have drawn their inspiration from personal experiences growing up and eating out in the Chinatowns of Western cities like Melbourne, San Francisco and Vancouver. Opened in mid-2014, Fu Lu Shou nightly attracts an in the know crowd of both expats and local Hongkongers, captivated by its offbeat design and combination of creative Asian-inspired cocktails and flavorful renditions of Chinese dishes evocative of nostalgic Chinatown experiences.
Taking its moniker from three legendary Chinese gods – Fu (happiness), Lu ( prosperity) and Shou (longevity), the compact rooftop space is secreted away atop an ageing, unremarkable seven floor building along the mega-popular Hollywood Road dining and nightlife strip behind Central. Unmarked at the street level, entry to Fu Lu Shou requires a code (just call ahead) to unlock a gate for entry. At the rooftop, a cozy indoor section combines a bustling open kitchen and bar – set behind the mahjong-tiled counter – adjacent to a couple of simple dining tables. Outside on the open-air terrace a stunning graffiti mural created by local street artists is splashed across the main wall, while a casual, understated decor of high tables, sofas and swinging chairs are surrounded by a backdrop of close-up urbanscape views.
Cocktails at Fu Lu Shou take on a distinct Hong Kong character reflected in names taken from the local vernacular, and the inclusion of local culinary ingredients and house-made fragrant infusions. Signature Hong Kong inspired cocktails like the Joh Sun “Good Morning Hong Kong”; Typhoon No.8; and Suzie Wong ROCKS Hong Kong! are complemented on the extensive drinks list with selections of classic cocktails and mocktails, plus wines, beers, spirits – and cigars. Meanwhile in the kitchen, the team cook up an appetizing menu of classic Chinatown recipes such as Kung Pao Chicken, Sweet & Sour Pork, and Beef in Black Bean Sauce.
Fu Lu Shou opens Mondays to Saturdays from 5 pm – staying open until late. Call ahead (2336 8812) for the weekly door code – updated every Monday – or check on the Facebook Page. Table reservations and private groups are welcome.
Fu Lu Shou – contemporary rooftop terrace
Fu Lu Shou – Chinatown style Chinese cuisine
Fu Lu Shou – Hong Kong referenced cocktails