Other
Antonio Lai
Owner
- Discipline
- Other
i. Biography
Born in Hong Kong and local by nationality, the bar practice Antonio Lai describes is tied to a 1997 sightline: a bartender working flair with ease and grace. The early reference point was not only the drink but the handling, timing, and room-facing control of the station.
The Ascent
Hospitality training in Hong Kong moved from floor work into bar work. Antonio Lai worked as a waiter at Planet Hollywood, then moved behind the bar there as bartender. The craft then widened through mixologist work at an American restaurant and a bar, alongside barista training, giving the practice a base in service rhythm, drink construction, and beverage discipline. Ownership, menu development, and group-building now carry the work across several rooms. Antonio is co-owner of Quinary, co-owner of Origin, executive mixologist of VEA Lounge, and co-founder of Tastings Group.
The Current Chapter
Quinary was built around Hong Kong cocktail culture and contemporary technique applied to the guest experience. Antonio Lai states the operating brief directly: “The reason I opened Quinary was to focus on cocktail culture, with all the last innovation used to make cocktails. The idea was not to serve just drinks but deliver an experience to our guests.” The drink language favors aroma, texture, and presentation as structural parts of the serve, not afterthoughts. The Earl Grey Caviar Martini is noted for a multi-sensory experience with caviar and aroma. Blood and Tears combines Cherry Heering liqueur, whisky, centrifuged orange juice and sweet vermouth. The Gimlet with Gin and Oolong Tea Cordial keeps a classic frame while moving the palate toward tea-driven cordial work. Presentation at Origin carries the same attention to how a drink lands in front of the guest. The KGB cocktail is notable for its presentation in a bathtub with a yellow duck.
Signature
Signature cocktails include Earl Grey Caviar Martini, KGB cocktail, and Blood and Tears cocktail.
Credentials
World's 50 Best Bars recognition has attached to Antonio Lai’s work through a clear service language: aroma, texture, technique, and guest experience.
Profile updated July 2026
FAQ
Asked of Antonio
Where did Antonio Lai work before?
Earlier in their career, Antonio Lai worked at Planet Hollywood, an American restaurant, and a bar.
What is Antonio Lai known for?
Multisensory mixology.
