Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong Retains Historical Charm and Luxury Service.
Overlooking the iconic Victoria Harbour, the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong remains amongst the best hotels in Hong Kong, if not the world, for its flawless service and five-star hospitality. The flagship is perched in the heart of Central, and its award-winning, 2,100 square-meter Mandarin Spa lives up to its expectations, offering a menu of modern technology and TCM in its treatments. LUX Nomade’s Hong Kong-based contributing writer Faye Bradley checks in for a one-night stay at the luxury hotel.
Location
Mandarin Oriental’s flagship property is situated in the heart of Central, surrounded by some of Hong Kong’s most iconic and reputable buildings and monuments. The location couldn’t be more convenient for travellers wanting to shop, dine, and explore the city’s best leisure activities all at the hotel’s doorstep. For those wanting to venture further (perhaps to the beaches or on a countryside hike), public transportation is easily accessible and taxis are available at every corner.
Hotel Design
The hotel opened its doors for the first time in 1963 so heritage and colonial-influence is prominent in the design. When entering the lobby, there’s an immediate sense of 1980’s glamour, emphasised by the glittering chandeliers and black and champagne furnishings. Recently awarded as the Best Hotel in Hong Kong 2020 by Travel + Leisure, the Mandarin Oriental ticks all the boxes for five-star service and amenities—from the elegant and well-equipped spa to the Michelin-starred dining options.
Harbour View Room
The Mandarin Oriental houses 499 rooms and suites, each designed in greys and golds with deep wood for an old-world touch, and featuring marble bathrooms with luxury amenities from Diptyque. We stayed in the Harbour View Room, a 40-square meter Kowloon-facing space with expansive windows overlooking the skyline—a pair of binoculars are even perched on the countertop for closer inspection of the view. There’s a vintage aesthetic to every room, a clear indicator of the post-colonial influence sustained at the hotel.
Hotel Facilities
There plenty of room for self-indulgence at the Mandarin Oriental—and when there’s service to match, it makes the hotel difficult to top. Guests can embark on the many pampering options here, including the Mandarin Spa for an oriental massage, the Mandarin Barber for a gentleman’s cut, the Mandarin Salon for a cut-and-style, the fully-equipped 24-hour fitness centre for a pre-breakfast workout, and the twin-lane indoor swimming pool for an afternoon dip.
Dining
F & B at the Mandarin Oriental is cherished for its range of five-star cuisine. Locals and visitors frequently flock here for a taste of the world’s best. We dined at the Mandarin Grill + Bar, a contemporary grill restaurant, and tried the Sunset Tasting Menu, a three-course set serving some of the most impeccable delights. Highlights included the infamous House-Made Applewood Smoked Salmon (freshly sliced in front of you) and the Beef Wellington, which is usually sold out within the first hour of seating. Other restaurants include Pierre, a Parisian restaurant, the Michelin-starred Man Wah, the world’s only Krug Room for an intimate gathering, and the casual-chic Cafe Causette. There’s also the Clipper Lounge for Sunday brunches, and three bars for a tipple: the M bar, The Chinnery, and the Captain’s Bar. Satisfy your sweet tooth at The Mandarin Cake Shop, for a selection of some of the city’s most gourmet pastries.
Overall
As the hotel group’s first property to open, it’s clear where the luxury hospitality ethos comes from. The Mandarin Oriental continues to exude charm and legacy through its service and facilities. Whether you’re a guest staying overnight or simply visiting the five-star spa and restaurants, everyone is welcome to indulge in the impeccable qualities of the hotel.
5 Connaught Road Central Hong Kong
Book your stay here https://www.mandarinoriental.com/hong-kong/victoria-harbour/luxury-hotel
