Insider Compass
An expert assessment built on data, context and gastronomic judgement.
About Drink Kong
Drink Kong has earned its place at #40 on The World's 50 Best Bars by delivering a multi-sensory cocktail experience wrapped in a Blade Runner-inspired aesthetic that feels equal parts Tokyo neon district and cyberpunk fantasy. Francesco Coltella's vision goes beyond mixology—this is a theatrical playground with themed rooms spanning a main cocktail bar, omakase counter, arcade space, and live performance area, all unified by an innovative mood-based cocktail menu that guides guests through color and flavor profiles rather than traditional categories. It's for adventurous drinkers who want their spirits served with serious craft and a side of Asian fusion bites that punch well above typical bar food.
Good to know
Arrive when they open to watch the team transition from mise en place to full service mode—you'll get more face time with the bartenders and deeper insights into their techniques before the rush.
The chef
Francesco Coltella
Francesco Coltella serves as the creative force behind Drink Kong's innovative cocktail program and multi-sensory concept. His vision combines Japanese minimalism with futuristic design, creating a mood-based approach to mixology that breaks from traditional cocktail categorization. Under his leadership, the bar has achieved international recognition, landing at #40 on The World's 50 Best Bars list. His philosophy centers on creating experiential drinking that engages multiple senses through design, sound, flavor, and theatrical presentation.
The Insider Compass
Four dimensions, each assessed independently against the same criteria everywhere we rate.
Plate
The Asian fusion menu delivers legitimate kitchen skills, not afterthought bar snacks—the pork bao has developed a cult following for good reason, with properly steamed buns and well-balanced fillings. The pastrami sandwich stands out as an unexpected star, earning devotion from visitors who've been surprised by its quality against the backdrop of Rome's traditional cuisine. Execution is generally solid, though consistency can fluctuate between dishes depending on the night's pace.
Vibe
LivelyThe atmosphere shifts from calm and considered in early evening to a high-energy, neon-soaked scene as the night progresses, with techno-rap soundscapes that stay just below overwhelming volume. The futuristic interior design creates distinct zones—each room has its own personality, from intimate booth seating to the omakase bar's focused counter experience. Expect a stylish, international crowd drawn by the bar's global reputation, with the vibe leaning sophisticated party rather than quiet contemplation.
Service
The brigade operates with professional precision, transitioning seamlessly from pre-service calm to high-volume execution as the space fills. Bartenders demonstrate deep knowledge of their craft, offering thoughtful recommendations and detailed explanations of technique and flavor profiles without pretension. Guests are welcomed with complimentary bites and a greeting drink, setting a hospitable tone that carries through the evening despite the kinetic energy.
Setting
The neon-lit, Japanese-influenced interior feels like stepping onto a cyberpunk film set, with each space designed around distinct concepts that create visual drama without crossing into kitsch. Located near Piazza di S. Martino ai Monti, the bar occupies multiple levels that separate experiences—from the main bar's theatrical energy to more intimate private rooms. The lighting design and futuristic aesthetic have become signature elements, making the space instantly recognizable and highly Instagrammable without sacrificing substance.
These four dimensions are a handful of the attributes we review. The Insider Rating also draws on research the compass does not display — among them the wine programme, the size and quality of the cellar, the location, and how long the house has operated. It is not an average of the scores above.
Go for
- World-class cocktail craft with creative, mood-based menu design that pushes beyond traditional mixing
- The Blade Runner aesthetic and multi-room theatrical experience that makes drinking feel like an event
- Surprisingly strong Asian fusion food, especially the pork bao and pastrami sandwich that transcend bar snack expectations
Don't go for
- A quiet, intimate conversation—the energy and soundscape lean toward vibrant and social
- Traditional Roman dining expectations or classic Italian cocktail culture
Details
Piazza di S. Martino Ai Monti, 8, 00184 Roma RM, Italy
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