The best kind of bar is a rooftop bar, and the best kind of drinks are drinks with a view. It’s what Instagram was made for – not those pseudo-artsy shots of Sunday brunch.
So we were incredibly excited when Park Hyatt Guangzhou broke the news of its awesome sights. Press releases said it planned to open the highest outdoor bar in Guangzhou, akin to the likes of Singapore’s Kudeta and Bangkok’s Sky Bar. We were gripped; our nights of imbibing were about to reach a whole new level of swankiness. Still, we were doubtful; after all, this is Guangzhou.
Stepping out of the elevator, some 70 floors above the concrete-filled throngs of Zhujiang New Town, a dimly lit pinnacle of elevated leisure shifts into view. Pockets of well-dressed, attractive people sit around unique, organic spaces. Floor-to-ceiling windows create silhouettes of bartenders as they mix creative cocktails and prepare platters of fine oysters and imperial caviar.
Imported swills like Baron Philippe de Rothschild Escudo Rojo Chardonnay (RMB360) and Yamazaki 12 Year (RMB1,580) are on-trend, as are the vintage wines and champagnes, premium cocktails, cognacs and whiskies – all at prices one would expect to pay in such a swish establishment.
The jewel in the crown, however, is the uber-sleek outdoor terrace located just a few paces away, past walls of laughing Buddhas, industrial gears and a grand piano. Enveloping guests in what is considered to be the most unadulterated of rooftop pleasures, it’s decked out with chic loungers, day beds and a stand-alone bar for private soirees. Marvel at the panorama, which includes a knockout view of the iconic Canton Tower.
Of course, being the city’s highest rooftop bar, the pushing and shoving to take puckered lip selfies against the scenic backdrop can make you feel like you’re in a cattle market. But it’s only to be expected in a place where the views are as dizzying as the drinks.
Seeing as it may still be too chilly to hang outside all night, ask to borrow one of Roof Bar’s coveted cashmere pashmina shawls. They’re perfect to cozy up with and are rumored to have made a prominent restaurateur swoon with fluttery delight.
For a city not particularly renowned for its skyscrapers, Guangzhou’s new Roof Bar at the Park Hyatt Guangzhou sure knows how to make the most of alcohol at an altitude.
Price: RMB200
Who’s going: Suave highbrows, shameless selfie takers
Good for: The best view in Guangzhou
> See listing for The Roof Bar.
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