Winter cocktails I Photo by Tatum Ancheta
Over the years, I’ve visited only a few rooftop bars that truly take their drinks seriously. Many prioritize offering spectacular views over artisan cocktails, making ordering drinks from a bottle often preferable. However, this sky-high rooftop bar in Shenzhen provides not only stunning views and lively energy but also exceptional cocktails to complement the experience.
Watch the video below for a sneak peek of the menu:
After winning the title of leading hotel bar in China at the 2024 National DRiNK Awards, MO Bar, the flagship bar of Mandarin Oriental, Shenzhen, is proudly celebrating its third anniversary with the introduction of a new cocktail program called “Colors of China.” Set to launch after February 15, this exciting program features an extensive menu of 16 drinks inspired by the changing seasons in China: Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter.

The innovative cocktail menu is crafted by beverage director Tiger Chang, whose expertise stems from his experiences in some of the most renowned bars in Taipei, Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, as well as in vibrant cities like London, Singapore, Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh, and Yokohama.

“Each cocktail represents one of China’s 24 solar terms, incorporating seasonal ingredients to create a unique blend,” shares Tiger. “Each drink is given a poetic name in both Chinese and English, reflecting its inspiration and essence,” he adds. The 24 solar terms, integral to the Chinese calendar, divide the year into 24 distinct seasons that reflect changes in climate, plant, and animal life. These terms play a significant role in people’s daily lives, influencing agriculture, festivals, and cultural practices.

According to Tiger, they have selected four symbols to represent each season. “For spring, we chose the swallow, which embodies hope and vitality in Chinese culture. The butterfly represents summer as well, symbolizing growth and transformation. For autumn, we use the ginkgo leaf, which signifies peace and purity. Lastly, for winter, we have selected the snowflake to represent the essence of this season,” explains Tiger.

Standout drinks in the collection include the refreshing Blush (CN¥128), a tropical-tasting cocktail featuring a blend of Beefeater Pink Gin, Monkey 47, Aperol, apple vinegar, guava, rose, and verjuice, perfect for welcoming spring. To beat the summer heat, enjoy the cooling and savory Turquoise (CN¥138), crafted with Tabb Baiju, Empirical The Plum, I Suppose, with fresh cucumber, verjuice, and whey.

For autumn, the sweet and boozy Ruby (CN¥138) combines Michter’s bourbon with fermented rose jam, strawberry milk, and buckwheat. Finally, the punchy mezcal-based Canary (CN¥ 138) represents winter with a vibrant blend of mango, matcha, hibiscus, and yuzu tonic water.

Complementing the cocktails are curated bar bites that pair perfectly with each drink on the seasonal menu. For summer, enjoy Spanish ham paired with sun-ripened fruit (CN¥198). For autumn, indulge in French black mussels (CN¥198) that enhance the seasonal experience. Spring features Fine de Claire oysters (CN¥198) served with yuzu vinegar gel, while winter offers spicy foie gras with Sichuan pepper (CN¥128).
MO Bar Shenzhen is located on the 79th floor of the Mandarin Oriental, Shenzhen, Block A UpperHills, No. 5001 Huanggang Road, Futian District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China. The bar is open from 6pm to 1am, Sunday to Thursday, and from 6pm to 2am, on Fridays and Saturdays. For reservations, call +86 (755) 8182 9379 or email [email protected]. For more info, visit mandarinoriental.com.
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