Sometimes its not about the coffee, but a seat where you can recharge yourself and your laptop.
Gone are the days when finding a decent spot to work meant fighting for a Starbucks seat. Our blossoming coffee culture has transformed neighbourhood cafes into makeshift offices, combining caffeine fixes with modern conveniences that cater to laptop warriors and their work-from-anywhere lifestyle. Here are our top picks for work-friendly cafes.
Urban Coffee Roaster, SOHO
Where: UG/F and 1/F, C Wisdom Centre, 35-37 Hollywood Road
Why: A well-designed working nook for multi-taskers
What started as a passion project in 2014 has blossomed into a coffee powerhouse. The company now operates four branches across Hong Kong — Causeway Bay, Tsim Sha Tsui, Tseung Kwan O, and Central. Its latest Central location boasts a smart spatial layout that seamlessly combines seating, coffee bar, and waiting area under one roof. Digital nomads will appreciate the dedicated nook equipped with both USB-C and A ports. The Causeway Bay branch remains my weekend favorite for its excellent veggie breakfast, made even better now with their new freestyle menu that lets you customize your morning fuel.
commaa, Sheung Wan
Where: G/F, 11 Po Yan Street
Why: Sleek design and cultural vibe
Trust Sheung Wan to deliver a cafe that's equal parts coffee shop, gallery, and office. Designed by LAAB architects, who cleverly tucked their office behind the coffee bar, commaa surrounds you with rotating art and craft showcases (and marketplace) while you chill with a coffee or tap away at your keyboard. At $40 for a signature black coffee, it's reasonably priced for the area – especially considering the Instagram potential of their minimalist interiors.
BOGU Pets Grooming & Coffee, Tai Hang
Where: Sze Hai Building, 12-13 Shepherd Street
Why: Perfect for remote workers with pets
Finally, a cafe that caters to both you and your four-legged friend. This clever concept by Archi.val combines an inviting coffee spot with pet grooming services, all wrapped up in warm woods and expansive windows. The space is perfect for long-form writing or creative projects — especially if you're a pet parent.
N.O.T. Specialty Coffee, Causeway Bay
Where: 9F, Hysan Place, 500 Hennessy Road
Why: A true urban oasis with friendly staff
Strategically positioned in one of Hong Kong's prime business districts, N.O.T. exemplifies the modern workspace-cafe hybrid. It offers various seating configurations, from power-outlet-equipped platforms to coveted window seats overlooking the bustling streets below. Its proximity to Eslite bookstore and Hysan office tower makes it an obvious choice for your morning boost, impromptu meetings, or solo work sessions. The shop is attached to a pasta joint that also takes care of your lunch needs.
ztoryhome, Sai Ying Pun
Where: G/F, 118 Queen's Road West
Why: Work as if you're at home
This cafe may not be the easiest to find, but once discovered, you'll understand why it's a hidden gem worth returning to. Blessed with floor-to-ceiling windows and high ceilings, this two-level cafe is as commodious as it is homey. With roots in bedtime stories, the cafe features walls adorned with picture books and art pieces that aim to nourish your soul. In the middle is a Japanese-style sitting area where you need to remove your shoes. For digital nomads seeking inspiration with a cigarette, head to the cozy outdoor space where you can work in fresh air. The cafe includes a second floor where occasional art exhibitions take place.
