Dragonfly Unveils Art Nouveau-Inspired New Cocktails and Mocktails Honouring the Golden Age of Mixology

Dragonfly, situated within Tai Kwun, is a preferred sanctuary for nightlife-goers and visitors, offering a visually captivating retreat complemented by live entertainment and visually stunning cocktails, and enhanced by its Art Nouveau architecture and enchanting atmosphere, which captivate loyal returning guests since its launch.

This November, the venue introduces an innovative cocktail menu inspired by the golden age of early 20th-century mixology—an era characterised by bartenders travelling internationally during Prohibition, thereby making a significant and lasting contribution to global cocktail culture and elevating the craft to an international art form.

A Cocktail Collection Inspired by Art and Innovation

The new cocktail collection at Dragonfly mirrors the venue's bohemian sanctuary and Art Nouveau aesthetic, transforming classic libations from America, England, Mexico, and the Caribbean into contemporary masterpieces. Each cocktail pays homage to the pioneering spirit of late 19th and early 20th-century bartenders—creative visionaries who, much like Ashley Sutton's design philosophy, challenged conventions and redefined their craft. Just as Dragonfly's interior showcases intricate mosaics, cast-iron dragonflies, and Tiffany-inspired glass work, these cocktails reveal layers of complexity, artistry, and innovation in every sip.

A space and interior designed by award-winning visionary Ashley Sutton, Dragonfly features intriguing, otherworldly elements that captivate all senses and imagination. Throughout the interior, Sutton pays homage to legendary American artist Louis Comfort Tiffany, renowned for his exquisite favrile glass and stained-glass creations. Guests are mesmerised by striking turquoise glass lamps adorned with yellow dragonflies, patterned mosaics decorating floors and tabletops, and over 500 cast-iron dragonflies elegantly adorning the bar area and walls. This carefully curated atmosphere of decadence and timeless artistry creates the perfect backdrop for an equally artful cocktail experience.

The Visionaries Behind the Bar

At the helm of this creative endeavour is Rocky Rai, Group Beverage Manager of Boutique Bars, whose passion for the art of mixing drinks and fascination with diverse cultures have been instrumental in shaping Dragonfly's new cocktail programme. With an impressive career that began at The Upper House with Swire and spans prestigious five-star establishments, including the Intercontinental Grand Stanford Hong Kong, The Murray Hong Kong, Niccolo Hotel, and The Mira Hong Kong, Rocky brings a wealth of knowledge and a visionary approach to hospitality. His philosophy centres on evoking the Victorian era—the golden age of mixology—emphasising handpicked spices, simplicity, and timeless elegance. For this menu, Rocky has championed a collaborative approach, providing his team with the creative freedom and technical expertise to reimagine classic cocktails through a contemporary lens whilst honouring their historical roots.

The innovative cocktails at Dragonfly are the result of collaboration between Rocky and two young, experienced bartenders: Umes Pun and Kaft Magar. Umes, who studied hotel management before relocating to Hong Kong in 2013 to reunite with family, brings a diverse background that includes two years at LKF working the demanding late-night shifts, followed by two years at Grand Hyatt Hong Kong across Champagne Bar, Waterfall Bar, and The Grill, where he developed extensive event experience with spirits such as mezcal. Kaft moved to Hong Kong from Nepal in 2007 and has been working in F&B since 2011, honing his craft over 9 years at Caliente Mexican since its opening, before joining Grand Hyatt Hong Kong. His specialities include Old Fashioneds, Negronis, and clarified milk punches—techniques that shine through in Dragonfly's new menu.

Together, under Rocky's mentorship and inspired by his passion for mixology's golden age, this dynamic team has crafted a collection of cocktails and mocktails that honour classic recipes whilst showcasing modern techniques and innovation.

New Cocktail: Pond Lily (HK$148) – Roku gin, dry vermouth, elderflower liqueur, olive juice, garnished with olive

For those who enjoy the timeless elegance of a martini but find its bold, spirit-forward flavour somewhat too strong, Pond Lily offers a sophisticated introduction to this classic drink. It elevates the martini by combining Japanese Roku gin and dry vermouth with the subtle sweetness of elderflower liqueur, adding a gentle floral note that softens the cocktail without losing its refined feel. The addition of olive juice adds a faint savoury touch that references the dirty martini, creating a harmonious blend of floral, salty, and herbal flavours. Garnished with an olive and finished with a clean, crisp presentation, Pond Lily achieves a perfect balance of approachability and sophistication.

New Cocktail: Legacy (HK$148) – tequila, mezcal, grapefruit cordial, grapefruit soda

Drawing inspiration from the classic Mexican Paloma, Legacy reinvents this beloved summertime favourite with a sophisticated blend of tequila and mezcal that pays homage to its heritage whilst embracing modern techniques. The cocktail showcases a new-generation approach to flavour development, featuring a house-made grapefruit cordial made via sous vide, combining citric acid, sugar and fresh grapefruit juice to achieve depth of tartness. Each sip reveals layers of flavour, beginning with a subtle smokiness from the mezcal, followed by bright citrus notes and the tartness of grapefruit that dances across the palate. Topped with grapefruit soda, Legacy delivers a perfectly balanced libation that's both invigorating and elegantly refined.

New Cocktail: Comfort Rum Punch (HK$148) – white rum, coconut rum, coconut water, condensed milk, citrus, pineapple foam

Celebrating Puerto Rico's famous Piña Colada, Comfort Rum Punch reimagines this tropical classic into a sophisticated, modern drink. Using a clarification process, the cocktail becomes crystal-clear, highlighting the pure flavours of white rum, coconut rum, coconut water, and condensed milk, while preserving its velvety palate character. The citrus element provides a subtle tartness, balancing the sweetness and creating a refreshing sweet-and-sour taste that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Topped with a delicate pineapple foam made from fresh pineapple juice, gelatine, milk, and brown sugar, whipped to a light, cloud-like texture, each sip offers layered tropical flavours that transport drinkers to sun-kissed Caribbean beaches.

New Cocktail: Odyssey (HK$180) – white rum, spiced rum, overproof rum, Falernum, absinthe, passion fruit, citrus, Demerara syrup

Embark on an exciting flavour adventure with Odyssey, Dragonfly's elegant tribute to the legendary American Zombie cocktail, demonstrating exceptional craftsmanship in every detail. This boldly layered drink combines three distinct rums—white, spiced, and overproof—with the tropical sweetness and spice of Falernum, complemented by a touch of absinthe that introduces a hint of herbal note. Passion fruit and citrus add vibrant brightness, while a house-made Demerara and passion fruit syrup, crafted via sous vide process, infuses brown sugar, passion fruit, star anise, cardamom, and cinnamon into a richly aromatic liquid that is double-strained for clarity.

Odyssey offers an adventurous experience in a glass—a bold yet balanced blend of tiki craftsmanship that intertwines bitter, fruity, and warming spiced flavours into a complex, multi-layered sip that rewards the daring drinker.

New Mocktail: Tiffany Elixir (HK$128) Seedlip infused butterfly pea flower, pineapple juice, lemongrass, lavender syrup

Inspired by the classic Aviation cocktail, known for its ethereal violet hue and floral sophistication, the alcohol-free Tiffany Elixir embodies the spirit of the Dragonfly using butterfly pea flower-infused Seedlip non-alcoholic spirit. It undergoes a striking colour change from vibrant indigo to purple when mixed with fresh pineapple juice, mirroring the iridescent wings of dragonflies and the colour variations in Tiffany's stained glass. Aromatic lemongrass and subtle lavender syrup add layers of botanical richness, resulting in a refined beverage that echoes Art Nouveau's celebration of natural forms.

New Mocktail: Muzo Emerald (HK$128) Seedlip, ginger beer, bergamot, honeydew melon, basil syrup

This innovative take on the classic Moscow Mule reimagines the drink through an Art Nouveau perspective, with the alcohol free Muzo Emerald replacing vodka with Seedlip non-alcoholic spirit, while keeping the spicy ginger beer and adding refined citrus notes of bergamot. Juicy honeydew melon and fragrant basil syrup add a fresh, garden-like complexity that echoes Dragonfly's botanical style, making the drink feel like a sip in a sunlit greenhouse.

Weekend Three-Hour Bottomless Free-Flow for HK$288

Enhance your weekend lunch and afternoon tea experience with the optional bottomless free-flow package for those who seek a little extra. Available every Saturday and Sunday from 12 pm to 5 pm, this three-hour bottomless package is priced at HK$288 per person. It includes Bellinis, Bloody Marys, Mojitos, beer on tap, prosecco, and a selection of wines. This bottomless package can be paired with the food menu or enjoyed on its own, making weekend socialising even more enjoyable.

Live Band Performance Every Friday and Saturday

Dragonfly's alfresco outdoor patio flows into one of Tai Kwun’s iconic stone-paved walkways, inviting guests to soak in the rich historical ambience while enjoying a lively schedule of live band performances every Friday and Saturday from 8 pm to 11 pm.

Additionally, resident and guest DJs maintain the vibrant atmosphere every Friday and Saturday, spinning tracks from 10 pm to 1 am. This dynamic lineup transforms Dragonfly into an enthralling nightlife destination, embodying the spirit of escapism and encouraging revellers to unwind, dance responsibly, and celebrate a carefree Bohemian way of life.

The Awe-Inspiring Interior

Dragonfly’s bohemian sanctuary transforms guests into a mystical ambience inspired by the Art Nouveau movement and the beauty of nature. Designed by the award-winning design visionary Ashley Sutton, Dragonfly features intriguing, otherworldly elements that captivate all senses and imagination. Reflecting the charm and elegance of the late 19th century, the space perfectly captures the essence of decadence and timeless artistry.

Upon entering Dragonfly, guests are transported to an enchanting underworld of mystery and Bohemian allure. The carefully curated lighting plays a pivotal role in creating a romantic and mysterious atmosphere, enveloping visitors in a warm glow that invites them to feel like part of a storybook. Dimly lit corners and softly illuminated sculptures evoke a sense of intrigue, encouraging guests to explore every enchanting detail.

Throughout the interior of Dragonfly, Sutton pays homage to the legendary American artist Louis Comfort Tiffany, renowned for his exquisite favrile glass and stained-glass creations. Guests are mesmerised by striking turquoise glass lamps adorned with yellow dragonflies. These patterned mosaics decorate the floors and tabletops, and a magnificent, large, human-form dragonfly with mosaic-patterned wings takes centre stage at the cocktail bar. Over 500 cast-iron dragonflies elegantly adorn the bar area and walls, further enhancing the whimsical experience.

Open daily from 12 pm to 2 am, the 92-seat lounge is located at Shop 10 - G1, Tai Kwun, Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong. WhatsApp +852 9359 0999 for reservations and inquiries, or follow Dragonfly on Instagram to stay up to date on the live entertainment roster and latest offerings @thedragonflyhk.

Address

Shop 10 - G1, Tai Kwun, Hollywood Road, Central, Hong Kong

Seating

92-seated guests; Dragonfly features a main bar area for 30 seated guests, an alfresco patio for 40 seated guests and a new salon space that caters to 22 seated guests

Opening Hours

Open daily from 12 pm to 2 am

WhatsApp

+852 9359 0999

Instagram

@thedragonflyhk

Live Band Performance Schedule

Rotating live band available every Friday and Saturday, 8 pm to 11 pm

Set Lunch

Available daily from 12 pm – 3 pm; HK$128 for two-course and 1 drink; HK$158 for three-course and 1 drink

Afternoon Tea Set

Available daily from 2 pm to 5 pm; HK$388 for two guests (includes a tea set for two to share, choice of tea)

Weekend Bottomless Free Flow

Saturday and Sunday, 12 pm to 5 pm; HK$288 for 3 hours of free-flowing Bellini, Bloody Mary, Mojito, Orion beer on tap, prosecco, wines

About Ashley Sutton

Ashley Sutton is an award-winning designer whose innovative concepts have transformed nightlife and experiential entertainment. Originally from Fremantle, Western Australia, Sutton’s journey began in nature, which has fuelled his creativity from a young age. His imaginative spirit first surfaced in illustrated fairy tale books, one of which became a global bestseller. This early success propelled him into the design field, where he has created extraordinary and immersive venues.

Sutton, known for merging complex storytelling with craftsmanship, transports audiences to breathtaking, emotionally resonant dreamscapes. His venues include Iron Fairies, Maggie Choo’s, Dear Lilly, Ophelia, Dragonfly, and The Mixing Room, each showcasing his ability to create immersive experiences from vivid narratives. From aviary-inspired fantasies to kaleidoscopic realms, Sutton’s work expands creative horizons and blurs the lines between imagination and reality. Sutton incorporates custom details, making each venue a piece of artistry and innovation. Every element reflects his identity, attention to detail, and commitment to breaking norms in design, mixology, and hospitality. Sutton consistently revolutionises the industry, setting new standards for spaces that delight and intrigue.

As a true artistic innovator, Ashley Sutton’s visionary approach brings life to his characters, stories, and spaces, redefining our nightlife experience. His designs are not just venues—they are extraordinary journeys that leave a lasting impression on all who experience them.

About BOUTIQUE BARS

Dragonfly is owned and managed by BOUTIQUE BARS, an international hospitality group specialising in the development of one-of-a-kind, immersive nightlife experiences in metropolitan cities around the World. Created and realised by hospitality veteran Sandeep Sekhri and in collaboration with renowned design maverick Ashley Sutton, BOUTIQUE BARS channels Sutton’s creative genius into bespoke designs in nightlife destinations. Through authentic and innovative designs, Sekhri’s is set to redefine nightlife and elevate guests’ expectations and satisfaction to new heights.

Boutique Bars develops hospitality concepts, crafting food and beverage experiences from the ground up internationally. Notable projects include The Iron Fairies in multiple countries, as well as The Mixing Room, Maggie Choo's, Dragonfly, Ophelia, Dear Lilly, Darling Darling, and Entomology.