Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong
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The Mandarin Oriental is a 5-star hotel in Hong Kong, the first and flagship hotel of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group. It opened in September 1963 as The Mandarin, located at 5 Connaught Road Central in Central, Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong's financial and banking district. The hotel is the first in Hong Kong to feature in-hotel business facilities, catering to the discerning business travelers. [1]
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[edit] History
Although this hotel was criticized by many Hong Kong and Macau residents during the early days of operation as it bore an extravagant character and identity, it has quickly established itself as an award winning hotel since the day it opened to the public.
It has been rated the best hotel in Asia for many years and it is the prime choice for many diplomats, politicians and celebrities such as Kate Moss, Kevin Costner, Tom Cruise, The Sultan of Brunei, the late Princess Diana, former US Presidents Nixon, Ford and George H. W. Bush have stayed at this hotel, as well as the esteemed members of the business community and the well heeled.
In 2003, Hong Kong actor and pop singer, Leslie Cheung committed suicide in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel. On April 1, 2003 he jumped from the 24th floor of the hotel. It was reported that he suffered from depression.
[edit] Property
The hotel's splendor is marked by the Black Italian marble exterior along with hints of gold accents; on the inside, particularly with the lobby, it offers its guests Western comforts along with Asian hospitality and Oriental inspired decor, depicting the social circle within the imperial Chinese court.
[edit] 2005-2006 Renovation
After an extensive 9-month renovation, the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong has re-opened on September 28, 2006. The renovated hotel features 502 luxuriously-appointed guestrooms and suites, with guest-centered technology, nine restaurants and bars, a Shanghainese-inspired holistic Spa, traditional barber, stylish hair salon, sky-lit fitness facility with pool and comprehensive banqueting facilities.[2]
[edit] Restaurants and Bars
- M Bar
Stylish Bar on the top floor of the Hotel, serves Chinese Tapas from Man Wah alongside champagne and specialty martinis.
- Mandarin Grill & Bar
One of the most famous steakhouses in Hong Kong. Originally named The Saddle & Sirloin. During the renovation a new seafood serving Crustacean bar has been added.
A concept by 3-star Michelin Chef Pierre Gagnaire. Replacing Vong's (1997-2005), which replaced Pierrot (1979-1997), a classic French Restaurant.
- Man Wah
The hotel Chinese restaurant steeped with history. The new chef de cuisine, Ooi Soon Lok. Replaced The Button Supper Club in 1968.
- Clipper Lounge
A favorite place for high tea amongst local celebrities and socialites. Also known as "Hong Kong's Sitting Room".
- café causette
A relaxing café with open kitchens alongside The Mandarin Cake Shop. Formerly known as The Café.
- The Chinnery Bar
The Chinnery Bar was originally opened as a Gentleman's club in 1963 and was not opened to both men and women until 1990. Serves traditional colonial cuisine and whiskey.
- Krug Room
Hidden behind the Chinnery Bar, this bar serves Krug champagne and also serves dinner cooked by the hotel's executive chef.
- The Mandarin Cake Shop
Serves homemade chocolate, cakes and breads along with delicious hot chocolate and coffee.
- Captain's Bar
One of the favorite bars in Central for business professionals. Serves casual lunch during the day and cocktails at night with lively music provided by the Tony DeSare trio. (9pm to 1am, Monday - Saturday)
[edit] The Landmark Mandarin Oriental
In 2005 the Group opened their second Mandarin Oriental hotel in Hong Kong just one street away. The Landmark Mandarin Oriental is a boutique hotel adjoined to The Landmark shopping centre on Des Voeux Road and Queen's Road.
[edit] References
- ^ http://www.mandarinoriental.com/hotel/520001246.asp
- ^ http://partnernet.hktb.com/pnweb/jsp/doc/listDocL.jsp?charset=en&doc_id=93527&filename=Oct%202006%20(word).doc&logs=&cat_id=&type=
