Overview: Mixologist Jay Khan has established a reputation for exploring the extensive world of agave spirits through his bar, Coa, in Hong Kong. The venue secured a top ranking in Asia’s 50 Best Bars list from 2021 to 2023 following its 2017 opening. Khan continues to champion diverse agave varieties while highlighting other notable establishments within the city’s vibrant cocktail scene.
The Full Story
Coa, named after the bladed tool used to harvest agave, features a 41-page spirit menu and accommodates 40 guests. The bar’s signature cocktails include the Smacked Cucumber, which combines mezcal and tequila blanco with house-made Chinese salad sauce, lime, ginger, honey, and chilli. Another bestseller is the La Paloma de Oaxaca, containing worm salt made from roasted agave moth larvae, dried chilli peppers, sea salt, lime, and house-made grapefruit cordial.
Khan travels annually to Mexico to explore diverse agave spirits, noting that over 200 varieties of agave are native to the region. He states that whenever he visits a new distillery, the diversity is insane due to factors including the species of agave, geographic region, and cooking methods. While tequila and mezcal command attention, Khan emphasizes there is more to discover within the spirit category.
Beyond his own counter, Khan recommends newer spots in Hong Kong that have caught his attention. Mius opened in 2025 by mixologist Shelley Tai, who previously worked at Quinary and Nutmeg & Clove. At Mius, he suggests an ice-less highball made with frozen whisky and chilled Japanese soda to avoid dilution. Bar Leone was named World’s Best Bar in 2025, offering a Filthy Martini made with smoked olive brine. Quinary is also noted for its Earl Grey Caviar Martini, which features foam and spherical beads made with earl grey tea.
Brand & Industry History
Coa was opened by mixologist Jay Khan in 2017. The establishment has maintained a top ranking in the Asia’s 50 Best Bars list from 2021 to 2023. Khan notes that Hong Kong is one of the best cities in the world to visit bars, specifically within the Central area where all bars are located within walking distance of one another.
What This Means
The abundance of innovative bars located within walking distance makes Hong Kong’s cocktail scene appealing for visitors. However, trying these bars in a single night requires planning as they operate on a walk-in-only basis and often have long lines. Khan recommends bookmarking others in the area to explore while waiting for a queue number after getting a line.
Consumer Takeaway
This collection of venues offers drinkers access to diverse agave spirits and experimental cocktails without leaving the Central district. The specific offerings range from the 41-page spirit menu at Coa to the minimalist set-up at Mius, providing options for those seeking casual vibes or unique molecular mixology experiences.
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