High Life

HIGH LIFE 73 A n age of indulgence in food and drinking, the 13th century was a time of reverence towards “Wise” King Alfonso X of Castile. During his reign, he suffered an illness which left him only able to partake in small, bite-sized portions of food and wine. It was recorded that after recovering, theWise King issued a decree that no alcoholic beverage should be served unless it was paired with food. Thus, the practice of tapas food and a decadent drinking culture was born. Known as the golden age of culinary and mixological exploration, the 13th century is the inspiration behind the The Wise King – a new bar taking Hong Kong by storm. Seeking to embody opulence fit for a king, it is an establishment that celebrates the exploration of sight, taste and sound through mixology and cuisine. Intended for socializers, global explorers and drinkers who crave a getaway from the bustling streets of Hong Kong, the bar is a welcoming space led bya teamof industryexperts. A trend of late, many talented bartenders have taken on the additional title of entrepreneur and headed on a solo journey towards setting up their own business. A result of their passion and love for the mixological art, Joe Villanueva and Sandeep Kumar followed the wave and founded TheWise King. Industry veterans with years of experience at some of the world’s best bars, Joe and Sandeep have worked tirelessly to launch a bar unlike any other. The interior at The Wise King is sophisticated and intriguing, telling the captivating story of its heritage. The ambiance is warm and indulgent, yetexudesalaid-backcozyatmosphere that gives a nod to old-world dressy lounges without neglecting the feel of affordable luxury conveyance. The down-lit lighting style cocoons the space, making it intimate and balanced with an emphasis on the small tables that cultivate flowing conversations andcaterperfectlytogroupgatherings. Guests embark on an alluring cocktail journey that draws from the bar’s heritage to modern drinking customs with unique ingredients explored through contemporary styles and techniques. Exotic and extraordinary ingredients are selectively sourced to concoct cocktails that are deep in flavor and rich in stories.