Your guide to a day at creative shopping hub, PMQ…
Spend a day surrounded by interesting exhibitions and designs at the creative hub that is PMQ (which, in case you were wondering, stands for Police Married Quarters), and satisfy your inner hipster! If you’re a supporter of locally-produced goods (they’re more environmentally and economically friendly after all!), PMQ showcases individual brands that sell the coolest trinkets and knick-knacks you never knew you needed. Be it a hangout with your friends, a place to take visitors, or just a quick stroll through the blocks for something specific – here’s why PMQ should be next on your list of places to visit…
Read more: Your Neighbourhood Guide To Poho
Editor’s Note: The situation in Hong Kong regarding closures and restrictions on opening hours due to the coronavirus is constantly evolving. Many businesses are taking extra precautions, but please make sure you follow the latest government advice and stay home if you have recently travelled overseas, have interacted with anyone who has been away, or display any symptoms.
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Fashion & Accessories
Food
Trinkets & Living Products
Fashion & Accessories
Oecoeco
This environmentally friendly accessories store will satisfy your inner Hongkonger with its cute silver origami and street-eat styled accessories (hello bolo bao and egg tart necklaces!).
Oecoeco, S407, 4/F, Staunton Block A, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2542 4947, www.facebook.com/lucyshih.oecoeco
Cecilia Ma Couture
For quirky and contemporary bags, this store is a must-visit. The clutches are each elegantly designed with an “intriguing mix of classic femininity and urban edgy chic”, featuring clever quotes and phrases that are both fun and eccentric.
Cecilia Ma Couture, S202, 2/F, Staunton Block A, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, www.ceciliama.com
MATTER MATTERS Gallery
Style and function collide at this contemporary shop (think Art Deco, Bauhaus and Post-Modernist aesthetics from 80s Memphis). The fashion and lifestyle products from this Hong Kong-based brand, started by designer Flora Leung, are sure to brighten your day and add some colour to your life.
MATTER MATTERS Gallery, S102, 1/F, Staunton Block A, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, 6889 8891, [email protected], https://www.794729metalwork.com/shopwww.mattermattersgallery.com
TAV
Short for “The Absolute Value”, TAV refuses to be conventional in its design, and instead, it connects two sharp and vivid cultures from Korea and Hong Kong. Browse its exciting range of outwear, dresses and accessories for something truly unique.
TAV, H301, 3/F, Hollywood Block B, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, [email protected], www.thetavstore.com
Andrew Kayla
For the next footwear trend, look no further than Andrew Kayla. Made with vegetable-tanned leather, suede or Italian leather, these walking shoes are not only comfortable but stylish as well – the best of both worlds! With three practical designs to pick from (low-top, high-top and rider), you’re sure to find a fun number to suit your style.
Andrew Kayla, S406, 4/F, Staunton Block A, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2894 2281, www.andrewkaylasports.com
Goods Of Desire (G.O.D)
Well known to both expats and locals alike, the store is great if you’re looking for quintessential HK-Style souvenirs. Look out for the unique T-shirt designs splayed with amusing slogans and quotes!
Goods Of Desire, G03-G07, G/F, Staunton Block A, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2915 2822, www.god.com.hk
The Little Finger
We couldn’t resist stepping foot into this adorably named shop. The strong geometrical accessories were all created with high-quality materials, produced locally by Hong Kong artists (which you can sometimes spot behind the cashier at work). Time to treat yourself with a little something you’ll be wearing daily!
The Little Finger, H206, 2/F, Hollywood Block B, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2803 2119, www.thelittlefinger.com
Obellery
Obellery sells a variety of impeccable jewellery creations and hosts a series of unique workshops perfect for those hoping to learn more about the crafting process. Getting married? Its wedding band workshop guides couples through the entire creative process, starting from raw materials to the finished product.
Obellery, H403, 4/F, Hollywood Block B, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, [email protected], www.obellery.com
SAU LEE
If you’re on the lookout for a local luxury fashion brand, we recommend heading straight to SAU LEE! From dresses and evening gowns to tops, the store has an endless selection of elegant pieces for you to choose from.
SAU LEE, H308, Hollywood Block B, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, [email protected], www.sau-lee.com
794729 Metalwork
With 10 years of silver accessory design and production experience, Ivan Keung founded 794729 Metalwork – a shop bursting with unusual and exceptional ideas which can clearly be seen through his work made of gold, silver and copper.
794729 Metalwork, H208, 2/F, Hollywood Block B, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, [email protected], www.794729metalwork.com
FABcessories
These fabulous accessories have hit shelves since 2011 and continue to uphold a youthful playfulness in each and every design. All designs created by Liyan Tai are micro-manufactured in Hong Kong, and every piece is intricately laser cut and hand-assembled.
FABcessories, H404, 4/F, Hollywood Block B, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, [email protected], www.fabcessories.com
Food
Levain Bakery
Carbs galore! Levain Bakery specialises in delicious artisan sourdoughs, French and Italian bread, pastries, desserts and all the good stuff. The best bit? All the delicious goodies are handmade, so you don’t have to worry about unwanted preservatives. The bakery also conducts courses if you’re interested in learning about the science behind baking.
Levain Bakery, H105-107, 1/F, Hollywood Block B, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2559 0889, www.levain-bakery.com
PMQ Taste Library
Food and books: our two loves in life; and the Taste Library combines the pair! The first and only food-themed library in Asia holds monthly book reviews, food culture events, book launches and more!
PMQ Taste Library, H504, 5/F, Hollywood Block B, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, 3481 3998, www.pmq.org.hk/shop/taste-library
Sohofama
Modern Chinese comfort food at its best, Sohofama serves up a wide range of dishes that raise awareness for healthier living. The restaurant uses locally-grown ingredients from Hong Kong farms, and guarantees chemical-free dishes.
Sohofama, SG09-SG14, G/F, Staunton Block A, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, [email protected], www.sohofama.com
ABC Cooking Studio
Every time you walk through PMQ, chances are there will be a cooking class going on in this Japanese-focussed studio. The space ticks all boxes for the kitchen of our dreams as it is fully equipped, spacious and fully stocked with fresh ingredients. Whether you’re a beginner or professional, ABC Cooking Studio will have a class for you!
ABC Cooking Studio, H110-112, 1/F, Hollywood Block B, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2915 1022, abc-cooking.com.hk
Louise
Set over a two-story heritage house in PMQ’s gardens, Louise is a collaboration between Yenn Wong, founder of JIA Group, The Lo & Behold Group and acclaimed chef, Julien Royer. Promising to use only the highest quality ingredients, Louise dishes up heartwarming Michelin-starred French food that’s hard to beat.
Louise, JPC Building, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, [email protected], www.louise.hk
Sake Central
Did someone say sake? Head to Sake Central where the Japanese rice wine is the main focus. Posing as both an educational and multifunctional retail space, Sake Central aims to promote the sake industry on a global scale and celebrate Japanese culture with an exceptional selection of food and drinks.
Sake Central, S019-S113, 1/F, Staunton Block A, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2656 6552, [email protected], sake-central.com
Café Life
In need of a pitstop? Café Life is the perfect place for a quick pick-me-up. Offering an array of fresh juices, pastries and roasted coffee, stop by on your shopping spree to refuel and recharge.
Cafe Life, S106, 1/F, Staunton Block A, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, [email protected], www.facebook.com/PMQCAFELIFE
Trinkets & Living Products
B’IN SELECT
For cool and quirky trinkets and lifestyle products, look no further than B’IN SELECT. The carefully curated selection in store includes a range of accessories, stationery and homeware from both local and international designers. Founders Anthony and Doris believe that good design can change our lives for the better and we think we have to agree!
B’IN SELECT, S101, 1/F, Staunton Block A, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, www.binselect.com.hk
KAPOK
A treasure trove of cool lifestyle products and fashionable pieces, KAPOK is a go-to for gifts in Hong Kong. Located on the ground floor of PMQ, go in for a browse and we can assure you that you won’t come out empty handed!
KAPOK, HG10-HG12 & HG19, G/F, Hollywood Block B, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, www.ka-pok.com
Oscary Art
Perfect for those who love to paint, Oscary Art studio offers four-hour art jamming sessions at $200 per person, including one canvas, two soft drinks and all painting materials. It also holds Terrarium Workshops and a variety of other painting classes to help sharpen your skills.
Sassy Tip: For weekend sessions, Connie from Oscary Art says to book at least two days in advance.
Oscary Art, S511, 5/F, Staunton Block A, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, www.oscaryart.com
Bathe To Basics
If you’re looking for eco-friendly cleansing products, try Bathe To Basics! All products are made with natural ingredients and produced locally – good for your skin, better for the environment! (It also sells natural deodorant!)
Sassy Tip: Try the toothpaste if you’re overwhelmed by the large selection (warning: it’s a bit salty!); it’s like brief oil pulling combined with teeth whitening, and all the ingredients are natural – no fluoride and safe to swallow.
Bathe To Basics, S403, 4/F, Staunton Block A, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2858 8135, bathetobasics.com
Found MUJI
MUJI is a no-brainer go-to when you’re on the hunt for minimalistic stationery and travel goods. At Found MUJI, you will find an array of staple homeware pieces that, like all MUJI products, are clean, simple and will fit seamlessly into any home.
Found MUJI, S017, 1/F, Staunton Block A, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, 3971 3138, [email protected]
FlowPlusLiving
If you’re looking for unique, handcrafted living products, you’ll have a tough time escaping FlowPlusLiving empty handed. The gorgeous ceramic goodies range from delicate vases and unique plates to modern cups – each varying in detail and shape. These homeware touches also make for great quirky gifts!
FlowPlusLiving, H207, 2/F, Hollywood Block B, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, [email protected], www.flowplusliving.com
Bamboa Home
The first bamboo retailer in Hong Kong, Bamboa is dedicated to providing its customers with stylish and eco-friendly home products made entirely from sustainable bamboo. The best bit? Every purchase goes toward helping rural communities grow bamboo.
Bamboa Home, S304, 3/F, Staunton Block A, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, [email protected], www.bamboahome.com
GLUE Associates
GLUE Associates stocks a vibrant array of expertly crafted products and apparel that pay homage to Hong Kong in its colourful designs. From candles to cufflinks and t-shirts to home decor and jewellery, you’re bound to find the perfect gift for loved ones or a trinket (or two!) for yourself.
GLUE Associates, S402, 4/F, Staunton Block A, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, www.glueassociates.hk
513 Paint Shop
Although we might not all be artists, we never get tired of browsing this store. The VOC and toxin-free paints (say goodbye to paint headaches!) come in an array of colours ranging from from pastel to metallic shades, with a choice of finishes, including matte and satin.
513 Paint Shop, S513, 5/F, Staunton Block A, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, www.513paintshop.com
PMQ Events Space
Keep an out for any happenings going on in the event space between Block A and B, which is usually buzzing with activity. PMQ often uses the open area for anything from art exhibitions and workshops, to pop-up stores and marketplaces. Head here to stay updated on upcoming programmes and events at PMQ.
The HK Room
Here at Sassy, everyone’s a little bit in love with the tassel earring trend and, luckily, The HK Room stocks beautiful pairs! Of course, it has more than earrings; from cabinets to pillows, gifts and small bags, the store has a great range of products that you won’t be able to resist!
The HK Room, S405, Staunton Block A, PMQ, 35 Aberdeen Street, Central, Hong Kong, 2546 3178, www.thehongkongroom.com
Editor’s Note: This post was originally written by Emma French on 4 June, 2014 and was most recently updated in December, 2020 by Lexi Davey.
Featured image courtesy of Sassy Media Group, image 1 courtesy of @from_this_postition, image 2 courtesy of MATTER MATTERS gallery by Sassy Media Group, image 3 courtesy of Goods Of Desire (G.O.D), image 4 courtesy of @_sau_lee_ and @kopi.cat via Instagram, image 5 courtesy of @levainbakeryhk via Instagram, image 6 courtesy of @famaland_official via Instagram, image 7 courtesy of @louise.hkg via Instagram, image 8 courtesy of B’IN SELECT by Sassy Media Group, image 9 courtesy of Bathe To Basics via Instagram, image 10 courtesy of Bamboa Home by Sassy Media Group, image 11 courtesy of courtesy of @pmqhkdesign via Instagram.