I plan to write about cigar friendly places in Hong Kong one at a time. Places where you don?t have to spend a lot of money, where you can bring your own sticks, order a drink and have a good time.

First up is the Red Bar & Restaurant.

If you ever come to Hong Kong, instead of going to the obvious hotel smoking establishments owned by the Pacific Cigar Company. I would recommend to anyone, if weather permit, go for an outdoor puff at the Red Bar & Restaurant located in Central (4/F, Tower 2, IFC Mall, 1 Harbour View Street).

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The outdoor sitting area of the Red Bar has a stunning sea view overlooking the Victoria Habour and the Kowloon peninsula. I personally think it is one of the best kept secret in town for both the locals and the tourists. It is a place where the ibankers, solicitors and accountants from the nearby office buildings hangout in the evening after a hard day?s work.


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Cocktails, beer, wine and spirits as well as selected hot dishes are available at very reasonable prices. All you have to do is order at the bar counter.

The very well furnished outdoor sitting area, at first glance, looks like an integral part of the Bar, but straightly speaking, it is a public area, and hence, you may, if you choose to, instead of just bring your own sticks, bring your own food and beverages as well. This place is in fact a zero cost smoking location!

Buy a drink from the bar, grab an ashtray, light up and enjoy the amazing view.

The bar is open everyday until late. The outdoor area, as said, is a public area and therefore, is a 24/7 place. The place is good apart from public holidays, when it gets really noisy with half of Hong Kong?s domestic helpers gathering there partying away.