I am a big fan of Schnubarrts in Lan Kwai Fong. Always had / have good conversations there when I pop in. But then that might have something to do with the fact that I've been going there for over a decade.
Go to any bar at a fixed time and you'll notice that it is usually the same people hanging out.. be nice to the bartender and you'll be ok on your second and third visit.
Needless to say, that does not apply to any of the posh-pretty-people places which rely on local chinese clients and staff for their business. (Possible exception being Dolce Vita .. but then it is a has been pretty-people-place)