The Diplomat

The Diplomat is an American-style cocktail bar in the H Code complex off Pottinger Street, run by bartender John Nugent and known for its drinks list as much as for its kitchen. It won Time Out Hong Kong's Best New Bar in 2020, and its one burger has built a following of its own.

There is essentially one burger to order. The Diplomat burger (HK$195) is a quarter-pound Ozaki Wagyu patty grilled medium-rare with crisp edges, topped with melted cheddar and served on a toasted sesame bun, with tomato slices, pickles and crisps on the side rather than inside. It was placed fourth in the World's 101 Best Burger Places 2026 list, the highest-ranked burger in Asia, and Time Out, Tatler, Honeycombers and Foodie all include it in their Hong Kong burger guides.

Best for drinks with a burger rather than a family meal: it opens in the evening and stays open until 2am. Booking through SevenRooms is a good idea at weekends.