When two icons of Asian hospitality announce simultaneous, sweeping renovations, it’s not just news—it’s a bold statement. The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has recently unveiled plans for an unprecedented, multi-million-dollar overhaul of its founding properties in Hong Kong and Bangkok. It’s a reinvention that signals more than fresh paint and new furniture—it’s a future-forward vision of luxury, heritage, and cultural pride.
And for those of us in Hong Kong, the transformation of the city’s most iconic hotel—the original Mandarin—is the beginning of an exciting new chapter we’re already watching unfold.
A new chapter for a local legend
Since 1963, Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong has been a symbol of refinement in the city’s ever-changing skyline. Whether you grew up attending weddings in the Clipper Lounge, ducked in for cake after a meeting, or simply admired the hotel’s subtle blend of Eastern grace and Western polish, this building is part of our collective memory.
Now, the landmark is getting its biggest facelift yet: a US$100 million transformation designed to preserve its soul while introducing a new era of luxury. The design overhaul—led by acclaimed talents like Hubert de Malherbe, Jeffrey Wilkes and Thierry Lemaire—will reimagine every corner of the hotel. Think: refined guest rooms with elegant fabrics, newly introduced long-stay apartments, a sleek whisky bar with a hidden cigar lounge, and a holistic new Wellness Club that fuses ancient traditions with modern wellbeing.
And yes—the beloved Cake Shop will also be reborn. (No word yet on whether the signature rose petal jam makes the cut, but fingers crossed.)
A culinary coup for Central
Dining is central to the Mandarin experience, and the relaunch ups the ante with an all-star line-up. Italian chef Daniele Cason, of Tokyo’s famed Pizza Bar on 38th, will helm a new pizza-and-wine concept on the Mezzanine floor. Meanwhile, the Mandarin Grill + Bar, Clipper Lounge, and The Krug Room all get elegant upgrades to match their global reputations.
Perhaps most exciting of all is the arrival of Michelin-starred French chef Daniel Boulud, who will open his first Hong Kong restaurant atop LANDMARK PRINCE’S (where SEVVA used to sit), directly linked to the hotel. With sweeping views of the harbour and a buzzy rooftop terrace, it’s shaping up to be the new Central dining destination.
Bangkok’s Grande Dame grows even grander
Not to be outdone, Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok—affectionately known as the “Grande Dame of the East”—is preparing for its 150th anniversary in 2026 with its own transformative refresh. Set along the Chao Phraya River, the hotel has long attracted royalty, celebrities and literary greats. Its latest chapter builds on that legacy with new interiors in the Author’s and Garden wings by Jeffrey Wilkes, inspired by lush Thai gardens and timeless colonial elegance.
Dining here is also getting a glamorous upgrade. Anne-Sophie Pic, the world’s most awarded female chef, will take the helm at Le Normandie, while Alex Dilling and Chef Fei will introduce bold new concepts at Lord Jim’s and The China House, respectively. Expect French flair, Cantonese finesse, and the soulful spice of regional Thai favourites—all under one historic roof.
Even the hotel’s famed Thai restaurant, Baan Phraya, will embrace the future with a remodel and expanded herb garden, aligning with the Group’s commitment to sustainability.
A double down on legacy—and the future
These parallel renovations mark a pivotal moment for the Mandarin Oriental brand. Under the direction of Group CEO Laurent Kleitman, the hotels are not just maintaining their global prestige—they’re investing in it.
For those of us in Hong Kong—especially those of us who’ve toasted milestones, hosted business lunches or simply sought solace in its serene spa—the news is both nostalgic and invigorating. Mandarin Oriental isn’t just polishing its past; it’s reimagining its role in our future.
And we’ll be watching closely, cocktail in hand, as the story unfolds.
Renovations at Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong begin in Q2 2025 and are expected to complete by Q4 2026. The hotel will remain operational during the transformation. Bangkok’s refurbishment is already underway, timed to celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2026.
