Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong

Originally called The Mandarin, the hotel was built on the former site of the colonial Queen's Building on the waterfront in Central Hong Kong. From the onset, the concept was to create a hotel firmly rooted in Eastern culture, providing gracious service to a standard generally experienced only in the Asia–Pacific region.[4] The original cost of construction totalled HKD 42 million, while the interior design amounted to even 50% more at HKD 66 million, sparing no luxury or detail. John Howarth of Leigh & Orange architectural firm was hired to design the building while the interior was entrusted to Don Ashton, a Hollywood Art Director for such films as The Bridge on the River Kwai, Indiscreet, and Billy Budd.[3] The Mandarin officially opened for business in October 1963, and at 26 storeys, it was the tallest building in Hong Kong. In addition to its record-setting height, the hotel was the first in Hong Kong to have direct dial phones and the first in Asia to include a bath in every guestroom.[5] The hotel quickly drew recognition for its service and elegance, and back in 1967 was listed by Fortune magazine as one of eleven great hotels in the world.[3] The Mandarin was originally located adjacent to Victoria Harbour, but as a result of extensive land reclamation in the waterfront area, the harbour now sits several blocks away.

Mandarin Suite living room at Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong

In 1974, the owners of The Mandarin established a hotel management company, Mandarin International Hotels Limited. The group's intention was to expand into Asia and operate hotels that would reflect the standard of service synonymous with their property in Hong Kong.[6] That same year, the company's hotel interests grew further through the acquisition of a 49 per cent interest in The Oriental, Bangkok. The Oriental, built in 1876, was already a well-known property. Through the management of both The Mandarin in Hong Kong and The Oriental, Bangkok, the Group was in an unusual position of having two "flagship" hotels whose names were among the best in hospitality. In 1985, the company rationalised its corporate structure by combining these two properties under a common name, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group.[6]

Famous singer, actor, and film producer Leslie Cheung committed suicide by jumping off the 24th floor of the hotel in 2003. He left behind a suicide note claiming he had suffered from depression.[7][8]

The Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong has been noted for its interior decoration.[5] In 2005, authorisation was given for a total renovation of the hotel, and when it closed in December of that year the trading floor of the stock exchange held a mock two-minute silence in memory of the hotel. For the interim period during its renovation phase, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group launched an all-new property, The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, located in The Landmark commercial and shopping complex only a five-minute walk away, in order to continue accommodating guests without interruption. The Landmark remained open following the renovation, but maintains a distinctly more modern interior aesthetic to distinguish it from the original property.[9] After a US$150 million renovation, Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong re-opened its doors on 28 September 2006, marking the event with a black-tie gala hosted by Dame Edna Everage with a performance by Bryan Ferry.[5] The renowned lobby, Captain's Bar, The Clipper Lounge, and Chinnery Bar remained recognisable after the renovation, but the remaining restaurants, bars, public spaces, and rooms were entirely new.[3]

The Mandarin Spa, opened in 2007, encompasses 2,100 m² (23,000 sq ft) across three stories and incorporates an indoor swimming pool, fitness centre, holistic spa, Mandarin Salon, and Mandarin Barber. The spa draws on the established Asian healing philosophies of traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda. Additional features include an ice fountain, Chinese herb steam rooms, hydrotherapy, and the Kneipp pool.[2][12]

Michelin-starred Pierre restaurant at Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong

• Pierre: a Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern French cuisine overlooking Victoria Harbour [13]
• The Mandarin Grill + Bar: a Michelin-starred restaurant contemporary European cuisine with a Crustacea bar
• Man Wah: Cantonese cuisine on the 25th floor with panoramic views of Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong cityscape
• Café Causette: informal, all-day dining serving Asian and international cuisines
• The Krug Room: private dining overlooking the kitchens serving between ten and fourteen
• The Chinnery: named for British artist, George Chinnery, this restaurant serves traditional British cuisine and houses one of the largest collections of single malt whiskys in the region
• The Clipper Lounge: serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffets and an afternoon tea
• M bar: contemporary bar serving cocktails and Cantonese tapas from Pierre restaurant
• The Captain's Bar: lobby bar serving coffee in the afternoon, beer and cocktails with live music in the evening
• The Mandarin Cake Shop: retail bakery selling chocolates, cakes, breads, and afternoon coffee