A new cocktail destination is taking shape in the heart of Hong Kong’s Soho. Montana, a bar concept from internationally renowned bartenders Lorenzo Antinori and Simone Caporale, is slated to open this summer at 108 Hollywood Road. The venue promises a fresh perspective on Cuban cocktail traditions, infused with the bold aesthetics and energy of 1970s Miami.

Drawing from the bartenders’ shared background in some of the world’s leading cocktail institutions, Montana aims to blend craft, hospitality, and rhythm in a space that is equal parts nostalgic and contemporary. The bar’s name itself is a nod to a little-known cocktail recorded in the manual of the Club de Cantineros—Cuba’s legendary bartender guild—underscoring its deep-rooted connection to Latin mixology.

A Collaboration Rooted in Global Experience

Antinori and Caporale first met in London in 2012, during a time when both were establishing themselves in the competitive global cocktail scene. Caporale was building a reputation at Artesian, later named the World’s Best Bar for four consecutive years, while Antinori honed his craft at The Savoy and Dandelyan. Since then, both have pursued individual successes—Antinori’s Bar Leone in Hong Kong is currently ranked No.2 on The World’s 50 Best Bars list, while Caporale co-founded SIPS in Barcelona, named The World’s Best Bar in 2023.

Montana represents the culmination of their shared philosophy: that bars should be lively, approachable, and grounded in quality. “Montana is our way of expressing everything we’ve learned and loved about hospitality, cocktails, and energy in one place,” the duo noted in a joint statement.

Cocktail Menu Highlights

The cocktail program is firmly rooted in Cuban tradition, with reinterpretations of classics designed to reflect the bar’s theme. Among the menu highlights:

  • El Presidente: A reimagined version featuring rum, quince vermouth, orange curaçao, saffron, and bitters, aged in a dulce de leche-coated bottle.

  • Montana Daiquiri: A historical recipe brought to life with rum, lime, maraschino, and a float of kirsch eau de vie, served with a bespoke ritual dubbed “La Hora del Daiquiri.”

  • Rum & Coke Sour: A sour twist on the Cuba Libre, made with amaro, ginger falernum, cola syrup, and lime.

  • Piña Colada: Featuring barbecued pineapple juice and toasted coconut, served in a slushy-style presentation.

The bar’s atmosphere takes cues from 1970s Miami, a time and place shaped by Cuban cultural influence. Expect warm lighting, neon accents, and a retro soundtrack featuring artists from Celia Cruz to ABBA.

Design and Dining

Montana’s interiors channel the spirit of vintage Miami dive bars, balancing curated design with casual charm. Music will play a central role in the experience, woven seamlessly into the environment. Alongside the cocktail menu, the bar will offer food inspired by Cuban classics, including BBQ Pineapple Helado—a rotisserie-roasted pineapple dessert served with vanilla ice cream and Caribbean sea salt.

A New Venue for Social Connection

At its core, Montana is designed as a social space. “It’s about more than just the drinks,” said Antinori. “It’s about the feeling you get when everything clicks—music, people, and a well-crafted cocktail.” The bar aims to offer guests a timeless sense of hospitality, where casual conversation and culinary creativity meet.

Montana is expected to open its doors later this summer.