The Restaurant & Bar Hong Kong (RBHK) 2026 expo will take place from September 1 to 3 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, bringing together global brands, emerging technologies, and industry competitions under one roof.
Held annually as a cornerstone event for the region’s food service sector, RBHK 2026 is set to showcase an expansive lineup that spans premium meats, seafood, green products, specialty coffee, popular spirits, and cutting-edge artificial intelligence-driven kitchen and retail solutions. Organizers expect the three-day gathering to draw thousands of hospitality professionals, restaurateurs, bar owners, and food enthusiasts from across Asia and beyond.
Coffee and Spirits: Dedicated Zones for Tastings and Expertise
This year’s edition introduces two new themed areas designed to cater to growing consumer interest in artisanal beverages. The Japan Sake and Spirits Pavilion debuts as a dedicated space for exploring premium rice wines and distilled products directly from Japanese producers. Meanwhile, the Specialty Coffee Corner will feature live brewing demonstrations and interactive sessions.
A highlight for wine and spirits aficionados is the appearance of Derek Li, Hong Kong’s first native-born Master Sommelier. Li will host guided tasting sessions at The Hub, offering insights into pairing and selection. At the Brew Bar, award-winning baristas will share their techniques and personal experiences, giving visitors a rare opportunity to learn from industry leaders.
The expo also presents “Taste of Asia,” a curated culinary journey under the theme “Harmony Beyond Borders,” where attendees can sample dishes and beverages that reflect the continent’s diverse flavour profiles. This zone is designed to inspire both professional chefs and avid foodies seeking new ideas for menus and home entertaining.
Competitions and Awards Celebrate Local Talent
One of the most anticipated segments of RBHK each year is the lineup of live competitions and award ceremonies. The Hong Kong Coffee Championships will return, allowing top baristas to demonstrate their skills in front of a live audience. Winners are expected to earn recognition that can elevate their careers and put Hong Kong on the global coffee map.
Alongside the brewing battles, the expo will host the Best Bar Awards and the Best of the Best Menu (BOBM) Awards, which honour outstanding restaurants and bars across the city. These accolades serve as a trusted guide for consumers searching for high-quality dining and drinking experiences, while also motivating establishments to maintain excellence in service and creativity.
AI and Sustainability Take Centre Stage
As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the hospitality landscape, RBHK 2026 is embedding technology into the core of the event. The Asia Retail Conference and Expo (RACE) has been fully integrated into the exhibition, with a special focus on the intersection of food service and digital innovation.
In collaboration with global consultancy KPMG, the conference will feature sessions titled “Retail in Action: Technology, Collaboration, and Experience in the Age of AI.” Industry experts will discuss how AI tools can optimize inventory management, personalize customer interactions, streamline kitchen operations, and reduce waste. Attendees will gain actionable strategies for implementing smart solutions in their own businesses.
Sustainability is another key pillar of this year’s expo. The newly launched Eco-Innovation Hub will showcase products and practices aimed at reducing the environmental impact of food and beverage operations. A dedicated forum, “Silver Food Safety and Nutrition: Building a Healthy and Sustainable Future,” will address the growing need for age-friendly dining options and responsible sourcing. These initiatives reflect a broader industry shift toward ethical consumption and long-term ecological stewardship.
Event Details and Registration
RBHK 2026 will be held at Halls 5FG of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai. Operating hours are from 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM on September 1 and 2, and from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM on September 3. Pre-registration is available online and is recommended to avoid queues at the venue.
For hospitality professionals, food entrepreneurs, and anyone passionate about the future of dining, RBHK 2026 offers a unique platform to discover trends, network with peers, and gain actionable insights. As the industry navigates rapid technological change and rising consumer expectations, events like this will play an increasingly vital role in shaping how Asia eats, drinks, and innovates.