TAP: The Ale Project (Mong Kok)

TAP: The Ale Project holds a special place in Hong Kong craft beer history as the first taproom to open in Kowloon, launching on Hak Po Street in 2014. Founded by the team behind Young Master Brewery, it quickly became the anchor of what is now a thriving cluster of craft beer venues in the neighbourhood.

The beer list rotates across 18 taps, with roughly 11 dedicated to Young Master's own range — stouts, hazy IPAs, dark ales, sour beers and seasonal specials straight from the tanks — and seven guest taps pouring imported brews from the US, UK, Belgium and Australia. The bar's philosophy has always been to champion quality over gimmick, with knowledgeable staff who can walk you through every pour.

The food menu punches well above the typical bar snacks level. Golden fries dusted with salted duck egg yolk and the lap yuk mac 'n' cheese are permanent favourites. The kitchen draws on Hong Kong-meets-American flavours throughout, making TAP a legitimate dinner destination as well as a craft beer bar. The compact space fills up fast on weekends, so arrive early or book ahead.