From the same team behind dragon-I, which barely needs introduction as one of Hong Kong's most successful clubs, a brand new music lounge and restaurant is set to open its doors on 10 Nov. Named Cassio, the venue will take over the space on the second floor of LKF Tower, and is an eclectic three-room space featuring retro pieces, such as the vintage-style wallpaper, a chandelier inspired by the storied Lutrario Dance Hall, and onyx-topped bar tables. It also features a 55-seat restaurant, celebrating the Spanish way of wining and dining a night away, thanks to the enlisting of one of London's most popular tapas bars Barrafina as its kitchen partner.
We ask founder and Cassio curator Gilbert Yeung what's to expect at this brand new venue.
What's the whole idea behind this new venue?
We have had this idea for a while of creating a spot where we can share the style of dining we enjoy and music we love all under one roof. We loved the style, spirit and vibe at London tapas bar Barrafina and it is our privilege to have them as our kitchen partner. Becoming friends with the Sam and Eddie Hart (the brothers who own Barrafina) wasn’t the only lucky coincidence. The friendly faces of the team, knowledge of good food and atmosphere there make everything sizzle with warmth and joy. We wanted to bring the vivid colours and exotic flavours to Cassio, combine it with a range of music styles we like and let the atmosphere do all the talking.
What's interesting about the music policy at Cassio?
It's an open format from R&B, Disco, House, 80’s, Latin, Salsa, or even a bit of Reggae and Deep/Tech House which we are currently in love with.
Will there be nights dedicated to certain genres of music?
Again, it's open format. The style of Cassio is contemporary with a vintage twist. The atmosphere and ambience is a dialogue between the past and the present, we would like to put a smile on faces of our guests when they hear a tune that brings back good old memories and make them move with the groove.
Are you planning for Cassio to be a late night venue?
Cassio possesses a playful and eclectic vibe: it's a place those who enjoy groovy music and quality food that punctuate all hours of the evening. It is a place where you can hold a conversation, have a drink, enjoy shared plates of crafted bites or catch a soulful singer.
With this partnership with Barrafina, what's in store for us in terms of food and drink?
With Barrafina as our kitchen partner, we celebrate the Spanish format of eating: accessible, vibrant and stylish. We'll be offering sophisticated and contemporary tapas, made for those who intend on enjoying themselves over a glass of wine whilst exploring and sharing an array of different flavoured bites. Expect constant display of fresh seafood, exclusive acorn fed Iberico ham sliced by hand and the best array of seasonal ingredients, together with a creative dessert menu.
There are lots of places to eat and drink in Central, what sets Cassio apart?
We do not intend to compete with other businesses, again, we want to let the atmosphere do all the talking. We want to create a place to complement the experience our existing businesses has to offer. This enables our group to provide an eclectic variety of options to meet the diverse tastes of the wide spectrum of our guests and bringing completeness to our brand at the same time.
Any international artists confirmed for the next few months—or can we get a teaser of the types of acts you're looking to get?
No gigs confirmed at the moment. We have flown in resident DJs from Tokyo, Mykonos, London and Brooklyn who will be playing a mix of old school, groovy beats in an intimate and eclectic ambience. Cassio is a place where you can hold a conversation, sway to the groovy vibe and catch a soulful singer performing at the lounge area.
2/F, LKF Tower, 33 Wyndham Street, Central
(852) 3792 0129
[email protected]
Stay tuned for more news and a first look inside the venue after it opens 10 Nov.
Article by Evelyn Lok
