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HONG KONG
When InterContinental Hong Kong closed in 2020 – the one next to later-opened K11 MUSEA – many mourned the news and were left wondering, what next? But for those missing the grand hospitality of IHG, its underrated sister property, only a few blocks down, offers a pared-back respite and it's been doing around for years since its opening in 1981. InterContinental Grand Stanford is a sophisticated business hotel perched on the iconic Victoria Harbour. We checked in for two nights to experience this city gem.
Located on Mody Road, the hotel sits amid the bustle of Tsim Sha Tsui, but rather in one of the quieter neighbourhoods. Guests can easily take public transportation or a taxi to arrive at the front entrance of the hotel. We checked into the swish Club Lounge, an airy space ideal for business travellers.
There are 572 rooms and suites at the hotel, and its crown jewel Presidential Suite for the most indulgent guests. We stayed at the stunning Victoria Harbour View Suite, only one level below the Presidential Suite, a 705 square foot panoramic space that feels grand yet humble.
The suite featured a living room area, window-facing dining spot, a separate bedroom and a lush marble bathroom leading the way to the walk-in wardrobe.
Image courtesy of Faye Bradley | CSP Times
On our first night, we dined at Hoi King Heen, a sumptuous Cantonese restaurant helmed by Celebrity Master Chef Leung Fai Hung who reinterprets Chinese classics with the best ingredients and top quality seasonal products. The restaurant was awarded ONE MICHELIN STAR by the Michelin Guide Hong Kong & Macau in 2011, 2012 and 2013 and it's easy to see why. From the five-star service that one can expect from such an establishment to the beautifully-presented dishes honing the most delightful Chinese regional flavours, we quickly became fans of this elegant abode. Highlights included the succulent steamed spotted garoupa roll with Yunan ham and the sweet and savoury beef brisket wrapped in braised crystal pear.
On our second night, we headed to another crowd favourite – Theo Mistral by Theo Randall. British Chef Randall is renowned for his modern interpretations of Italian dishes as inspired by his frequent trips to the region.
Image courtesy of Adam Thompson | CSP Times
Signature dishes span handmade pastas and the double baked fontina and parmesan soufflé but we were most impressed again by the attention to good service. It can really uplift any and every meal experience and with the close attention to detail, it makes all the difference.
Despite its preconceptions as a business hotel, InterContinental Grand Stanford Hong Kong, to our pleasant surprise, is much more. Its charming staff and exquisite rooms paired with quality onsite dining make it an ideal spot on a holiday abroad, or in more current times during our visit, a staycation. There's an outdoor swimming pool – a rarity in most hotels – which is best enjoyed on off-peak hours (it was full on the weekend and there's no pre booking). There's no denying that with over 40 years since its opening, there are some parts of the hotel that feel a bit outdated, but can be easily overlooked when in the comfort of the chic rooms and suites. Whisky lovers must head to Tiffany's New York Bar, an award-winning spot for live music with interiors inspired by the roaring 20s and helmed by veteran Lars Ruecker, also the F&B Director at the hotel. A longstanding giant in the city the hotel continues to thrive in its humble glory.
InterContinental Grand Stanford Hong Kong, an IHG Hotel, 70 Mody Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong, +852 2721 5161
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