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Reviving an icon is risky business, but The Regent Hong Kong—which opened in November last year—has found that "suite" spot between exciting new openings and a fondness for the past
Who doesn’t love a triumphant comeback? After its stint as the InterContinental Hong Kong from 2001 until 2020—and an extensive two-year renovation—Tsim Sha Tsui’s most recognisable harbourfront property reopened in November 2023 under its original ownership as The Regent Hong Kong.
The hotel's redesign was led by renowned architect and designer, Chi Wing Lo, who understood the assignment: this is more than just a hotel rebrand, it's the return of an icon.
And so, Lo masterfully blended modern design sensibilities with touches of nostalgia, from displaying artworks recovered from the original hotel to restoring elements that made this property a go-to for many Hongkongers' special occasions.
In a city that can be quick to tear down and rebuild, The Regent Hong Kong’s commitment to keeping memories alive is a heartwarming touch.
Above The feng shui fountain at The Regent Hong Kong's entrance has been a signature since the hotel originally opened in 1980
The feng shui fountain at The Regent Hong Kong's entrance has been a signature since the hotel originally opened in 1980
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First Impressions
The saying “Something old, something new, something borrowed” comes to mind.
The fan favourites are still here—the feng shui fountain that sits at the peak of the steep, palm-lined driveway; the cascading white marble staircase; and of course, the soaring triple-height windows in the lobby that look out to panoramic views of Hong Kong’s skyline.
As for something new, upon entering Regent Hong Kong’s palatial doors, guests will find themselves face to face with 16 towering columns constructed from liu li glass—an ancient glassmaking technique.
A "vertical chandelier" of 16 columns welcomes guests to The Regent Hong Kong
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Emanating an ambient glow, this collonade is Lo’s creative take on the hotel lobby chandelier, while creating a thoughtful transition space between the buzz of Salisbury Road and the serene, airy lobby. When checking in, guests are met with a 50-foot-long digital art installation by local artist, Hung Keung.
Also new, of course, are the guest rooms. All 497 of them, including 130 suites, which you can read about below.
Finally, something borrowed. Lo was able to source some of the original artwork from the property’s first incarnation as the Regent, which is now proudly displayed in the lobby.
The overall first impression is one that is warm and familiar, but with plenty of exciting new elements to discover.
Chi Wing Lo led The Regent Hong Kong's extensive renovations
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The Rooms
In the harbour view rooms and suites, every effort is taken to maximise The Regent Hong Kong's panoramic vistas: floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall windows frame a postcard perfect snapshot, with daybeds that span the length of the windows.
Custom-designed soaking tubs, inspired by ryokan in Japan, are positioned to enjoy views of Hong Kong’s concrete jungle—the same way one might relax in an onsen in Japan while staring into the forest.
The Corner Suite is particularly impressive, featuring a wraparound design with windows that span across a long sitting room, a bedroom stylishly divided with a curved wooden wall, and a showstopper bathroom with a large whirlpool placed beside a circular window for a unique perspective of Victoria Harbour.
A whirlpool with a view in the Corner Suite
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But it's hard to beat The Presidential Suite—one of the largest suites in Hong Kong at 7,000 square feet—which has a soaring, atrium-style sitting room and a private infinity pool that appears to drop into the harbour.
Furniture designed by Lo feature earthy tones and rounded edges, creating a welcome feeling of softness amid the electric, lively pulse of the city.
In rooms that face the garden, the clever use of slatted screen doors promise privacy without shutting the room to natural light.
Nobu Hong Kong reopened with a slick new look that puts harbour views centre stage
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Wine and Dine
Food nostalgia is a powerful emotion, and The Regent Hong Kong knows it. One of the first orders of business was reverting its two-Michelin-star Cantonese fine dining restaurant, Yan Toh Heen, to its original name: Lai Ching Heen. Regulars will be happy to know that the restaurant's signature jade place settings will remain. Its peking duck remains one of the best in Hong Kong, but must be ordered 24 hours in advance.
The Steak House, which was the first steakhouse in Hong Kong to feature a charcoal grill, has been a go-to for local celebrities and those celebrating special occasions since it opened in the 1980s. With magnums of vintage wine, premium cuts of meat, white tablecloths and an elaborate salad bar—it has all the makings of a classic.
Harbourside, The Regent Hong Kong's buffet restaurant, runs adjacent to the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade, making it the perfect spot for people watching while enjoying an impressive spread of international cuisines.
And then there's Nobu, with the bells and whistles of chef Nobu Matsuhisa's internationally-acclaimed approach to Nikkei cuisine, made extra special with the dramatic backdrop of Hong Kong's skyline.
Answering to Hong Kong's hotel bar renaissance, the newly opened Qura Bar combines the allure of a bygone era with Art Deco flair and a killer selection of Japanese whiskies.
Coco Marett is a writer and editor who grew up between Hong Kong and Melbourne. She currently heads the travel section for Tatler Asia, and manages the Tatler Travel account on Instagram. She is known for her features on unique, under-the-radar properties and destinations. She's also known for her in-depth interviews that paint a refreshingly candid portrait of influential figures across various industries —from artists to political figures, CEOs to celebrity chefs. Follow her on Instagram @cocomarett
