Standing before A01, we pondered whether the bar would bear any resemblance to the tailored clothing shop by the same name. It sounds highly unlikely, and yet, an expensive looking suit and shiny cufflinks gleamed through the first floor window display, teasing our intuition. Tired of guessing, we pushed open the door and strolled in.
If you’ve ever imagined yourself as a secret agent, sneaking around corners or spying on another’s reflection, A01 is the place to do it. The venue is veiled in mystery, from the intriguing decor to the rather strict set of rules for the patrons – raise your voice too loud and security guards will escort you from the premises. If only we had something like that for the Shenzhen Metro…
Having introduced the (very strict) code of conduct, Payne Huang, the owner, invited us to inspect the menu. Filled with intriguing illustrations, it took us some time to absorb all the options. We finally settled on appetizers, which, in hindsight, is an obvious place to start.
The beer-battered fried chicken and American-style Buffalo wings (both RMB75), were a blissful pile of greasy indulgence. You can’t really go wrong with fried food in a bar though, and we had come for the drinks.
Jasmine likes it (RMB95), is a vodka-based cocktail with fresh basil leaves. Its jazzy taste comes with just enough alcohol to get you in the party mood.
Dark haze (RMB100) is a gentleman’s drink, infused with a fierce aftertaste that suits serious talks and cigars.
Sadly, we were unable to try one of the main specialties – hawthorn gin tonic (RMB90) – but managed to get a sip of another signature creation, rose spritz (RMB90), based on a light white wine.
Dale Degroff’s mint julep (RMB90) is another innovative brew, served in a tumbler glass with a well-balanced mix of Evan Williams bourbon and Massenez Creme De Peche.
The evening faded into glass after glass of dizzyingly delicious potions, leaving us a bit hazy on details of the interior. What we do know, however, is that the food was great and the cocktails even better.
Cheers to a memorable night, A01. Mission accomplished.
Price: RMB200
Who’s going: Cocktail connoisseurs, wealthy partygoers, undercover spies
Good for: Whispering, drinking alone, a chic night out
[Images via Daniel MH Chun.]
0 User Comments