Review #3,500:
When…read moreNathan Left (彌敦左岸) opened up in TST along Hart's lively nightlife road, I was super pessimistic at best. Who was Nathan and why did he leave? Is this another gwai lo bar taking over the local grime and pubs from yesteryear? Since I lived right around the corner, I figured it was important to see what the deal was. Here's the deal: This place is awesome and over the past 2 years, I've become a regular.
Of the M1 nightlife establishments, Nathan Left is certainly the most unique. The exterior features a classic Hollywood marquee sign, along with open door seating at their downstairs pub where there is just enough room for people to enjoy a view out on the street while drinking a pint.
The second floor, where a majority of the people are is stunning from a decor standpoint. It is mainly a lounge with very contemporary decor pieces and dynamic ones that change in from night in to night out (depending on their theme) along with tables, a stage, a classy bar, and a performing stage. Hidden in the back are pool tables, a karaoke room, and even beer pong.
When I say I was blown away by the place, I was even more taken aback when I came back on different nights and the interior was transformed. One night was for a movie night and it was 1920s flapper party and the next night it was b-boys, big beats, and a hell of a hip hop night. For most other nights, it's a showcase of some of the best Filipino cover bands one can find.
The menu is mainly a mix of western food, which like any M1 spots are typically grossly overpriced and typically mediocre. I was however, impressed at some of the items, such as their "wurst" sausage variety, and even their $650HKD steak which was exactly how I wanted it -- medium rare. Even I was surprised when I found their hamburgers and pizza to be strangely tasty. Despite all of this, I'd still opt for their drinks more than anything.
The drinks are standard, but well done. There is a pretty solid selection of whiskey, and some beers on tap. It's not the most extensive selection of alcohol by any means, but it'll more than do the job for people who can order typical cocktails.
The staff is young, professional, and very multilingual. My first few visits here were taken care of by Jordan, who despite looking like a fella from Ireland, was in fact a Hong Kong native and mercilessly trolling folks with his flawless Cantonese. The same for the gorgeous Zasha, who served every drink with a smile. Or absurdly friendly Jerome, who knew exactly how to get the party started. Finally, the manager Tony would give a hearty handshake to his regulars every time they entered / exited the joint.
It seems like a moot point by now, but this really was my nightlife home away from home. It was a fun occasion any night of the week, a great place for a date, group fun, or a solo drinking session. And finally, an awesome place to listen to quality music and indulge in great company.
