As one of the Hong Kong’s premier five-star hotels, the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong is an iconic establishment blending contemporary luxury with rich local heritage since its opening in 1963. A masterclass in hospitality, Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong offers guests an opulent experience marked by breathtaking views, exceptional dining and drinking options, and unparalleled service.

The Arrival Experience

Upon entering the hotel, guests are greeted by a magnificent lobby adorned with glossy black marble, gilded accents, and elegant chandeliers that evoke a sense of timeless glamour. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet inviting, with plush seating areas where guests can relax and take in the ambiance. The attentive staff welcomes visitors with warm smiles and promptly guides them through the check-in process, ensuring a seamless arrival experience.

Room Accommodations

The Mandarin Oriental offers a range of spacious rooms and suites, each designed to provide the optimal blend of relaxation and luxury. The rooms feature colonial-era charm coupled with modern sophistication, with wood-paneled walls, classic furnishings, and exquisite Jim Thompson silk textiles.

During my stay, I had the pleasure of experiencing a Club Superior Room, which offered views of Hong Kong’s buzzing streetsides, plus exclusive access to the Mandarin Club (more on that below). Other rooms offer spectacular views over Victoria Harbour and of Hong Kong’s sprawling skyline.

The room itself is beyond spacious, especially in Hong Kong where every square meter is coveted, with an expansive living room and office space, full bathtub and separate dual-head shower replete with Diptyque toiletries, and a king-size bed, adorned with Egyptian cotton linens. Thoughtful details, like monogrammed pillowcases with guests’ initials, a complimentary monogrammed luggage tag, free Apple AirTags, and welcome fruits, chocolates, and sparkling tea exemplify the hotel’s commitment to the highest level of hospitality.

Dining

Dining at the Mandarin Oriental spans nine acclaimed restaurants and bars. Among the highlights is Michelin-starred Man Wah, the hotel's Cantonese restaurant, renowned for its exquisite dim sum and sumptuous dishes such as honey-roasted Iberico pork. For those seeking a more casual experience, Café Causette offers a relaxed atmosphere for breakfast and light meals. I highly recommend the Chinese breakfast set, brimming with warming congee, fried noodles, braised bok choy, assorted dim sum dumplings and buns, fresh fruit and coffee.

Pro Tip: Café Causette has some of the best char siu bao in all of Hong Kong. Plush pillows of steamed mantou give way to sticky glazed roasted pork belly, an expert-level rendition of this beloved Cantonese staple.

The Aubrey

The hotels’ globally-acclaimed bar, The Aubrey, is a sophisticated Japanese izakaya and cocktail venue located on the 25th floor. Recognized as the No. 17 bar in Asia, according to the 2025 Asia's 50 Best Bars list, The Aubrey hones in on the Japanese concept of shibumi – effortless simplicity – with a cocktail menu divided into 3 sections: elegance, refined, and imperfect. 

Throughout the menu, Bar Manager Stefano Bussi is pouring up inventive sippers inspired by seasonal Japanese fruits and other ingredients. Think a Wagyu oil fat-washed martini with peanut butter and soy sauce, a Negroni stirred with cachaca and banana, and a swizzle with brown butter, vanilla, and olive oil. There’s also an omakase cocktail bar for a more personalized tasting menu experience. 

With its stunning views of Victoria Harbour and stellar selection of rare Japanese spirits, The Aubrey is an ideal spot for both pre-dinner drinks and late-night gatherings.

The Mandarin Club

During my visit, I had the privilege of accessing The Mandarin Club, the hotel’s exclusive lounge located on the 23rd floor. This elegantly designed space offers a range of culinary pleasures, including a breakfast buffet, afternoon tea sets, and evening cocktails, plus an extensive lineup of both New and Old World wines and spirits. The panoramic views of the city skyline from the lounge create a serene setting to unwind or conduct business meetings. The attentive staff welcome guests by name upon arrival and maintain that same high level of personalized service throughout every visit, ensuring that visitors feel pampered throughout the day.

Other Amenities

Aside from dining and drinking establishments, the most impressive amenity is the well-stacked gym, one that rivals the best of the best in Asia. Fully equipped with not one but two set of dumbbell weights (so you’re never waiting for someone else to finish those last reps), and a wide variety weight-lifting machines, ellipticals and treadmills, this is one I wish I could get a regular membership to. In addition to the workout equipment, there’s also several beverage options, fruits, and small snacks available.

Aside from the fitness center, there’s a Shanghainese style designer spa, hair salon, and barbershop on site.

Service Excellence

It would be remiss to skip over Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong's exceptional hospitality, one of the key distinguishers that allows the hotel to edge out others in the region. The staff is known for their attentiveness and professionalism, often anticipating guests' needs before they are even expressed. From the warm welcome upon arrival to the thoughtful gestures throughout the stay, every interaction reflects the hotel’s commitment to providing a top-tier hospitality experience.

Location and Accessibility

The Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong is strategically located at 5 Connaught Road in Central Hong Kong, making it an ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers. Situated just steps away from Hong Kong's bustling financial district and the famous Star Ferry terminal, the hotel is surrounded by world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Guests can easily access the MTR (Mass Transit Railway) and Airport Express from Central Station, ensuring smooth transport to and from the airport, which is only a 40-minute drive away.

Conclusion: Is It Worth It?

With its exceptional dining options, world-class amenities, and attentive service, the Mandarin Oriental stands as a testament to what a five-star hotel should be. While some areas may benefit from small design updates, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, making it a must-visit destination in Hong Kong. Whether you’re indulging in a Michelin-starred meal, relaxing in the spa, or enjoying cocktails at The Aubrey, your stay at the Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong is sure to be memorable.

Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, 5 Connaught Road, Central, Hong Kong