I love the Wanch - there I said it, I've declared my love for an inanimate object!
This was one of the first bars that I went to when I arrived in Hong Kong, and it still never fails to please when I drop in for a drink any time of the week.
In terms of what it serves as a bar, it's fairly standard. There are a selection of beers, wines, spirits, etc., a very small selection of food and bar snacks, and that's about it.
The venue itself is small with very little seating, but that just adds to the rock 'n' roll atmosphere. Also, as this bar is located a little further away from the main action on Jaffe Road, it is possible to spill out onto the streets with your drinks, especially if you're a smoker. There are even tables and stalls in the alleyway next to the bar, if the noise from the music gets too much. I'm not sure about the legality of this though, so maybe cheese it is you see the cops.
The reason I love this place so much, is that it has live music. It claims to be the best live music venue in Hong Kong, and I'm inclined to agree with that sentiment. Every night there are a number of bands playing. Whether it's the full rock ensemble, or a one-man acoustic set. These bands are also amateur bands, unlike that pro Filipino bands that you'll get in places like Spicy Fingers. This is what gives the Wanch that slight edge of coolness. It's a great place for people who are interested in music to come and listen to music, or to even come and play music. That said, the quality varies, so don't be upset if a particular ensemble doesn't play the tunes the you've been hankering for, just wait them out over a cold beer and the next band may better suit.
There is also a loyalty card system whereby the every drink to you by gives you a stamp and after 10 stamps you get a free drink. There is also happy hour every day.
When you next drop by, look out for the owner John. He sings in a band called Don't Panic and has this huge mass of silver hair. He's one of the nicest blokes on the planet, and is total rock. read more