'Please Don’t Tell' or PDT, true to its speakeasy heritage, offers an intimate and cozy atmosphere that exudes a sense of secrecy and exclusivity. As you step through the phone booth entrance, you're transported into a world that's a blend of the contemporary and the retro.
The original Please Don't Tell bar in New York City, which the Hong Kong outpost is modeled after, follows this theme of secrecy. The name "Please Don't Tell" acts as an echo of this history, alluding to the Prohibition era's clandestine nature when people visited such secret bars and were told not to disclose their existence. The name thus adds to the bar's mystique, capturing the essence of the unique and secretive experience it aims to offer.
Staying true to its root, PDT keeps the iconic elements identical to the original speakeasy in New York City. The much-talked-about phone booth at the entrance; the brick walls decorated with taxidermy; and the vaulted ceiling bedecked with glossy wooden panels in a herringbone pattern. Within a hotel bar, this classic cocktail bar is a chic and intimate hidden gem for you to escape from the bustle.
The bar also won popularity for its addictive American food with an Asian twist, designed by two Michelin-starred chef Richard Ekkebus. Imagine a classic hot dog but with a twist - a topping that's full of flavors from a well-loved Hong Kong dish, the typhoon shelter crab. This means lots of tasty fried garlic, a kick from some chili, and the earthy taste of black beans. It's a little spicy and very delicious. This special hot dog is more than just a tasty treat, it's a tribute to the mix of cultures and tastes that make Hong Kong what it is. So, when you bite into it, you're getting more than a meal - you're getting a real taste of the city. And trust us, it's a taste adventure you don't want to miss!
One thing that really stands out at PDT is their amazing cocktails. It's not just about mixing drinks, it's about creating a flavor story in each glass. Take their 'Benton’s Old Fashioned', for example. This isn't your regular old-fashioned. They give it a special twist by adding bacon-infused bourbon and maple syrup. It's smoky, it's sweet, and it's really something you won't forget.
Not to forget, one of the charming aspects of PDT is its cozy, intimate size. However, this also means that space is limited. It's the kind of place where each seat is precious, and the atmosphere is always pleasantly lively without being overcrowded. So if you're planning a visit, it's a good idea to make a reservation ahead of time.