Restaurants

AOAO

A 22-seat kitchen run by Eleni & Yassine, serving the dishes their grandmothers argued about on Tuesday nights in Kreuzberg.

14/F, 38-48 Queen's Road Central, Central, Hong Kong $500+
4.7
505 notes from regulars
01 The story, in three paragraphs

Why everyone keeps coming back.

Perched on the 14th floor in the vibrant heart of Central, AOAO offers a refined journey into Japanese-European fusion cuisine, artfully crafted to delight even the most discerning palates. This sleek izakaya seamlessly blends traditional Japanese flavours with contemporary European influences, creating a menu that's as innovative as it is comforting.

From the moment you step inside, the ambiance enchants with its "lush green gemstone" inspired interior — a posh yet inviting space, perfect for intimate dates or special celebrations. The atmosphere is further elevated by stunning skyline views, setting the scene for an evening where elegance meets laid-back sophistication.

The culinary offerings at AOAO are a sensory adventure. Begin with the caramelised pumpkin, where the crisp, sugary shell cloaks a luxuriously sweet and creamy interior, striking a beautiful balance of savoury and sweet that awakens the palate. The wagyu katsu sando is nothing short of a masterpiece — tender, richly marbled wagyu encased in perfectly crisp charcoal bread, delivering satisfying textures and deep umami flavours that linger long after the last bite.

Seafood lovers will be captivated by the simply seasoned charcoal-grilled eel, its smoky-sweet glaze complemented by the delicate char that enhances every mouthful. The Hamachi Crudo 2.0 is another standout, boasting bold umeboshi miso that adds a punchy zest, while the shredded celtuce salad, topped with salmon roe and bonito flakes, offers a refreshing crunch paired with oceanic brightness.

When it comes to dessert, AOAO keeps the creativity flowing. The mini melon daifuku plays with delicate textures and subtle sweetness, while the matcha cheesecake surprises with a tantalizing salty twist, perfectly balancing richness with a hint of bitterness. To complement these indulgences, their cocktail selection shines with the Basalt — a smoky, spiced tequila drink that wraps up the meal in a warm, lingering embrace.

Guests consistently praise AOAO’s attentiveness in service and the seamless fusion of immersive art, music, and dining that transforms a simple meal into an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re seeking a cozy dinner spot with a chill vibe or a sophisticated rooftop bar to unwind, AOAO promises a unique culinary voyage in the bustling heart of Hong Kong.

For those craving a thoughtfully crafted meal imbued with creativity, flavor, and memorable ambiance, AOAO stands as an exceptional destination that leaves you eagerly anticipating your next visit.

03 Notes from regulars

505 notes — the real pulse of the room.

4.7
Based on 505 verified notes
5 485
4 65
3 9
2 7
1 16
All
Natalie So (gluttonattt).
2 month ago
A refined Japanese fusion dinner in Central with stunning skyline views and attentive service. Highlights included the caramelised pumpkin with its crisp caramel shell, the wagyu katsu sando layered in charcoal bread, and the simply seasoned charcoal‑grilled eel. Desserts ranged from playful melon daifuku to a salty‑surprising matcha cheesecake, while cocktails like Basalt (smoky, spiced tequila) and Amber (smooth, sweet with milk foam) rounded out a memorable evening.
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Little Miss Picky.
2 month ago
This sleek Japanese izakaya with a stunning rooftop bar offers truly unique Japanese-European fusion cuisine you won't find elsewhere. The 'lush green gemstone' interior is posh and perfect for special occasions or dates. Our meal was exceptional, from the complimentary appetizers to the innovative dishes. Highlights included the Hamachi Crudo 2.0 with its bold umeboshi miso, the surprisingly fizzy Pickled Tomato Salad, and the dessert-like Caramelized Pumpkin. The Hairy Crab Butter Udon was an umami explosion while the Tonkatsu was elevated by a vibrant tangy plum yoghurt sauce. And don't skip the desserts, including the Mini Melon Daifuku (MVP!) or their sophisticated cocktails like the H20 Sour. An unforgettable dining experience~
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Sinbabe Tachibana.
3 month ago
SAVOUR A HIDDEN WORLD Modern Izakaya in Central AOAO Fusing dining together with Immersive Art Music and a Gemstone-inspired Interior AKAGAI Ark Shell Clam, Asparagus, Spicy Sauce It’s balances the briny sweetness of akagai with the earthy crunch of asparagus and a bold SHREDDED CELTUCE SALAD Salmon Roe, Grated Daikon, Bonito Flakes The shredded lettuce and bonito sauce are fresh and delicious, and the fusion of radish puree and salmon roe has a layered taste. CARAMELIZED PUMPKIN Pumpkin is sweet, caramel and cinnamon flavored, with crunchy almond flakes. CHARCOAL GRILLED EEL Charcoal-grilled eel is plump, delicious and refreshing A4 WAGYU CUTLET CHARCOAL SANDO Grated Daikon with Mayonnaise A4 Wagyu beef sandwich wrapped in bamboo charcoal, with thick beef and a good beef flavor. Apple Combo Cake Full of layers of flavor & rich texture. Mini Melon Daifuku Melon is so delicious Onyx Dark smoky and mysterious Okinawan awamori charcoal roasted oolong and plum Golden Harmony Rum x Papaya x Cinnamon
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Greatfood Grateful.
4 month ago
Appetisers Akagai $138 Celtuce Salad $68 Caramelised Pumpkin $88 The pumpkin was a real surprise. Really sweet and creamy, with a nice savoury touch. A perfect starter. Mains Charcoal Grilled Eel $288 Wagyu Katsu Sando $328 The wagyu sandwich was the highlight. The beef was so tender and rich, and the bread was perfectly crisp. Desserts Mini Melon Daifuku $68 Matcha Cheesecake $68 Cocktails Basalt $148 Onyx $138 The Basalt was cozy from the cognac and cinnamon, with a nice fresh note from the yuzu. It was well-balanced.
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Chevy Che.
5 month ago
Great spot for drinks and tasty food with a chill vibe! Loved the fresh Celtuce Salad, smoky Caramelised Pumpkin, and flavorful Charcoal Grilled Eel. The Wagyu Katsu Sando was absolutely delicious, and the Mini Melon Daifuku Matcha Cheesecake was a perfect sweet finish. Cozy indoor and outdoor seating—perfect for relaxing or hanging out. Definitely recommend!
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Chew Chewy.
6 month ago
Found a hidden gem in Central! This modern Japanese izakaya and rooftop bar has great food, drinks, and atmosphere. Everything was delicious, but the savory dishes really stood out. I love the Caramelised Pumpkin and Hairy Crab Butter Udon!
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ariel ngan.
6 month ago
our 2nd visit to this modern jp izakaya & rooftop bar in the heart of central! HIGHLIGHT of the night was unexpectedly the caramelized pumpkin YES js pumpkin bt smelt like freshly baked pastries straight out of the oven. the crunchy coating paired seamlessly w the mushy, sweet pumpkin cubes w the addition of almonds for extra texture! their signature hairy crab udon was the reason we returned & its still so gd & balanced. the rich, shrimp-infused broth was a perfect match w fresh crab roe & crab meat. all in my belly!
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Gary Sun.
6 month ago
Food: All foods (except dessert) comes together at the same time, a very Japanese like style and I love it very much but some will find it is better to serve by sequence. All foods are very delicious and what I love most is the side garlic , it is perfect to enjoy with rice and unagi simultaneously. CP Value: I will give 9/10, it's the first time to 9 during my restaurant week journey, 4 courses at $148 and big portion. Dinning experience: The restaurant is very beautiful and located on the highest floor of the building. It is dividend into 2 areas , the indoor and outdoor dining places. I like the table with green and stones pattern , very appealing to me. I would like to point out the service standard is really appreciated as all of them are very polite with smile, I have enjoyed the lunch very much.
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04 When to visit & how to find us

Hours & the door on Bergmannstraße.

Opening hours
Monday 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM 05:00 PM - 02:00 AM
Tuesday 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM 05:00 PM - 02:00 AM
Wednesday 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM 05:00 PM - 02:00 AM
Thursday 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM 05:00 PM - 02:00 AM
Friday (today) 12:00 PM - 02:00 PM 05:00 PM - 03:00 AM
Saturday 06:00 PM - 03:00 AM
Sunday Closed
Finding the door

14/F, 38-48 Queen's Road Central, Central, Hong Kong

05 What makes this place friendly

The details you usually have to call and ask.

Service options
  • Delivery
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in
Highlights
  • Great cocktails
  • Great dessert
  • Great wine list
  • Rooftop seating
Popular for
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
Accessibility
  • No Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Offerings
  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Coffee
  • Happy hour drinks
  • Hard liquor
  • Small plates
  • Wine
Dining options
  • Brunch
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • Catering
  • Dessert
  • Seating
  • Table service
Amenities
  • Bar onsite
  • Restroom
  • Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
  • Cozy
  • Trendy
Crowd
  • Family-friendly
  • Groups
  • LGBTQ+ friendly
  • Tourists
  • Transgender safespace
Planning
  • Dinner reservations recommended
  • Accepts reservations
Payments
  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments
Children
  • High chairs
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