Words by Aude Camus
I’ll admit it: as a French expat, I have a soft spot for a good neighbourhood bistro. You know the kind I’m talking about - unpretentious, buzzing, with that perfect mix of laidback vibes, great food, and a wine list that makes you swoon just a little. Bourke’s, the latest gem to land on Peel Street in Soho, ticks all those boxes and more.
Let’s be real: Soho, Sheung Wan and Sai Yin Pun are no strangers to good bistro and wine bars, but finding a place that feels like your spot? That’s a little trickier. And Bourke’s? It has that magic. Think Melbourne wine bar meets local public house, with a generous dash of charm and community spirit. The team behind some of Hong Kong’s most loved spots - Honky Tonks Tavern, Terracotta Lamma, and Mendel’s - have nailed it again, crafting a space that feels both fresh and familiar. No airs, no graces… just a whole lot of heart.
I’ll admit it: as a French expat, I have a soft spot for a good neighbourhood bistro. You know the kind I’m talking about - unpretentious, buzzing, with that perfect mix of laidback vibes, great food, and a wine list that makes you swoon just a little. Bourke’s, the latest gem to land on Peel Street in Soho, ticks all those boxes and more.
Let’s be real: Soho, Sheung Wan and Sai Yin Pun are no strangers to good bistro and wine bars, but finding a place that feels like your spot? That’s a little trickier. And Bourke’s? It has that magic. Think Melbourne wine bar meets local public house, with a generous dash of charm and community spirit. The team behind some of Hong Kong’s most loved spots - Honky Tonks Tavern, Terracotta Lamma, and Mendel’s - have nailed it again, crafting a space that feels both fresh and familiar. No airs, no graces… just a whole lot of heart.
From the moment you step in, Bourke’s sets the tone. The warm lighting, leather booths, and vintage-inspired tiles invite you to settle in - whether for a cheeky glass of something after work or a full-on feast with friends.
Speaking of glasses, let’s talk about the wine. Managing partner Brett Goss has curated a list that’s anything but predictable. Expect a mix of Australian gems, rare finds from around the world, and bottles you’ve probably never heard of but will want to remember. I personally loved the ‘we choose to serve the Champagnes below in large wine glass, instead of a flute, to allow the wine space to open in a glass’ mention on the wine list – I feel like finally someone is getting me because I simple hate a Champagne flute, I find it so old school and inelegant. But Bourke’s isn’t just about the wine - the cocktails are worth shouting about too. Clean, refined, and just a little playful, the Green Light (HKD 120 / HKD 85 in its 0% ABV version) with lemon myrtle vodka, granny smith apple, quinquina, cedro, and soda might just become your new go-to. Pair it with a plate of Salt & Vinegar Chicken Wings or the buttery South Australian Blue Mussels, and you’ll understand why Bourke’s feels like the place to linger.
The food, helmed by Head Chef Tara Margarita, strikes that perfect balance of comforting and inventive. Her liver parfait with blueberry (HKD 90)? Decadent. The Sea Bream Crudo (HKD 130)? A fresh and zesty nod to Filipino kinilaw. And don’t even think about skipping the seared lasagna with spinach, mozzarella, and tomato sauce (HKD 90) or the fries with sour cream and onion (HKD 45) - it’s bar-snack perfection.
Bourke’s might be new on the scene, but it already feels like a classic. It’s where you pop in for one glass and end up staying for three; where the faces behind the bar remember your name (or at least your order); where wine and cocktails share the spotlight, and the food is every bit as good as the company.
So, if you see me there, perched at the bar with a glass in hand, come say hi - this one’s too good to keep to myself.
Bourke’s
https://bourkeshk.com/
G/F, 46 Peel Street, Central, Hong
Bourke’s might be new on the scene, but it already feels like a classic. It’s where you pop in for one glass and end up staying for three; where the faces behind the bar remember your name (or at least your order); where wine and cocktails share the spotlight, and the food is every bit as good as the company.
So, if you see me there, perched at the bar with a glass in hand, come say hi - this one’s too good to keep to myself.
Bourke’s
https://bourkeshk.com/
G/F, 46 Peel Street, Central, Hong
This article is based on a complimentary dinner tasting hosted by Bourke's. No money has been paid to publish this review which is entirely based on the genuine opinion of its author.
