In the ever-changing nightlife scene that is Hong Kong, few bars – even successful ones – last longer than a few years – yet the iconic Barn II has been serving thirsty customers for almost three decades. The Barn II has evolved and morphed over the years as tastes and drinking habits change – for the last decade it’s been Causeway Bay’s premiere sports bar. Currently the 7000 square foot establishment located on the first floor of Cigna Tower at 47-480 Jaffe Road has 18 TV screens (including a massive 120” main screen) spread around the room so that all customers can comfortably watch the game. The Barn can show up to 10 different sports events/matches at a time, so if your sport isn’t screening ask the staff and they’ll try to oblige. There’s also two dart machines, so step up to the hocky and hit a few bulls-eyes.
The no-smoking law forced many raucous smoke filled upstairs bars to adapt, at Barn 2 it inspired the owners Nelson and Sam to enhance and expand the Barn II’s dining options. A new menu for 2014 launches this month featuring local and international favorites given a Barn 2 twist by the outlets two kitchens – one looking after Chinese dishes, one international. The international menu features several new signature dishes including the Barn 2’s signature burger – which features a 6oz beef patty in a sesame seed bun sitting on a bed of mushrooms, grilled pineapple, bacon (and lots of it). This is topped with cheddar cheese and a fried egg and served with chips, coleslaw and salad.
Also new are thick sole fillets dipped in beer batter, deep fried and served upon a mound of fried thick cut potato – fish and chips, simple, tasty and delicious.
With the festive season fast approaching the Barn II is offering a special three course Christmas and New Year’s menu priced at $288/per person. Starters include mixed seafood chowder, smoked salmon terrine, or chicken liver pate. Among the 6 main course options are Roast British Turkey with all the trimmings (including Brussel spouts, Yorkshire pudding, onion and sage stuffing…); Black Truffle Risotto; Vegetarian Roast with all the trimmings. Dessert offers a choice of Christmas Pudding with bourbon butter and custard, Tiramisu or Cheese and Biscuits. The festive menu is available until 1 January, 2014 and the three course menu with tea or coffee is $288 – half price at lunch time.
Barn 2
1/F 470-484 Jaffe Road,
Causeway Bay,
Hong Kong.
Tel: 2591 0346
The Barn 2 paid for the meals written about in this review.