Black Sheep Restaurants to open The Magistracy at Tai Kwun

The Magistracy 2022

Tai Kwun on Hollywood Road is a great example of how Hong Kong can preserve and transform legacy buildings for future generations.

After eight years of renovations, at a cost of HK$3.8 billion, the former Central Police Station compound reemerged as a heritage and arts centre in 2018.

The origins of the 300,000 sq.ft. site stretch back to 1841. The 16 buildings that reside on it include the Central Police Station, Victoria Prison and Central Magistracy, which were declared monuments in 1995. 

Built between 1913 and 1914, the Central Magistracy ceased its judiciary functions in 1979 and was used by the police force until it officially closed in 1984. Since then, it’s sat dormant.

But that’s about to change.

Black Sheep Restaurants is turning the multi-level building into a hybrid venue replete with two restaurants, three bars, four private dining rooms, an elevated sports room, and an expansive wine cellar to host intimate dinners and house a collection of Old World wines.

The Magistracy will open in three phases, beginning mid-September with the debut of two restaurants: Magistracy Dining Room and Botanical Garden.

Designed by Joyce Wang Studio, Magistracy Dining Room is inspired by timeless London restaurants. The first-floor restaurant has panelled walls and curved banquettes in deep reds and blues, along with oversized armchairs and custom tapestries. A spiral wooden staircase takes guests to an intimate dining balcony that overlooks the space.

An outdoor terrace leads to the Botanical Garden, a place to relax with gin and tonics while surrounded by green foliage reminiscent of British heritage gardens.

Find out more here.