Mixology Meets Minimalism: PAAL’s Quiet Cocktail Movement Comes to Terrible Baby

Terrible Baby welcomes Shanghai’s PAAL for a guest shift that redefines less-is-more, bringing minimalist cocktail philosophy and sensory detail to center stage. On May 8, from 8PM to 12AM, Terrible Baby welcomes drinkers, design lovers, and the curious for a one-night showcase led by Co-founder & General Manager Aya Kwan and Head Bartender Derek Ling, who bring their quietly disruptive cocktail philosophy from PAAL’s home base in Shanghai to the heart of Hong Kong. 

Rooted in the belief that just 3% change is enough to spark transformation, PAAL reimagines cocktail culture through a minimalist lens. Inspired by Virgil Abloh’s design principle of “3% disruption,” the bar is known for its thoughtful interaction between guest and space and drinks that prioritize flavor over format. Every detail, from spatial design to menu curation, is minimalist in form, yet maximalist in intent.

PAAL will present a lineup of four cocktails (all at just HK$100*) that reflect their signature dual-A philosophy of Attitude & Ambiance. Poetry in Motion pairs Beefeater 24 gin with bitter gourd, jasmine, clarified yoghurt, and soda for a herbaceous spark, while Midnight Romance reimagines indulgence with a balanced interplay of Beefeater 24 gin, magnolia, coffee, and bael fruit, finished with prosecco. For whisky lovers, Chapel of Dawn delivers a bold mix of Chivas 12YO whisky with salted egg yolk, butter, maple, and vanilla ice cream. The finish unfolds with a delicate wisp of smoke. Suffering Bastard has a tropical twist, weaving Chivas 12YO whisky with jackfruit, passion fruit, ginger, and soda for a refreshing finish.

Drawing from Southern Chinese ingredients and guided by Nordic culinary techniques, PAAL’s cocktails balance intuitive flavor with methodical precision. Each reflects a dialogue between cultures, where familiar elements like osmanthus or tea are handled with clean, minimalist techniques to unfold unexpected layers. 

*Prices are subject to 10% service charge

Terrible Baby x PAAL Guest Shift

Date: May 8, 2025 (Thursday)

Time: 8PM-12AM