Contemporary grill cuisine at famed Michelin-starred restaurant- set within iconic Hong Kong hotel
August 25th, 2014
One of Hong Kong’s most esteemed restaurants since its inception at the opening of the iconic Mandarin Oriental hotel back in the 1960’s, the Mandarin Grill & Bar has long been the dining destination of choice for a discerning clientele comprising the local business and social elite, visiting celebrities, and luxury travellers. Among the extraordinary assemblage of ten dining and bar venues within the luxury hotel, the Mandarin Grill & Bar shares a unique status with the famed Captain’s Bar, Cantonese restaurant Man Wah, and The Chinnery, as having served guests virtually continuously since the hotel’s launch. Originally a traditional style grill restaurant with a dark timber and leather decor, the Mandarin Grill & Bar was refurbished by Sir Terence Conran when the hotel closed in 2005-6 for a total makeover. While maintaining its original sophisticated elegance, the room now has a brighter, contemporary aesthetic that complements the modern European grill cuisine of Executive Chef Uwe Opocensky. Awarded a Michelin star when the respected guide first launched it’s Hong Kong edition in 2009, Mandarin Grill & Bar has retained its Michelin-starred status in the subsequent 5 years.
Overlooking the historic heart of Hong Kong with views across Statue Square to the Former Legislative Council Building (Old Supreme Court), the Mandarin Grill & Bar dining room exemplifies the contemporary luxury that is the hallmark of Mandarin Oriental- and its long-standing connection with Hong Kong’s past. Extensive polished walnut, and original paintings by Gerard D’A Henderson reference the storied past, while pastel blue upholstery on the original Pullman armchairs, and the distinctive ceiling of molded “scallops”, lighten the atmosphere. The gleaming glass-fronted show kitchen spans one side – with the culinary team activity visible to diners. Tables are generously spaced for comfort and discrete conversations, with a private dining room adjacent to the kitchen suitable for up to 14 diners. At the entrance, the cosy lounge and bar space entices guests for pre-dinner aperitifs and cocktails, while fresh oysters from around the globe are served at the Crustaceans Bar.
Mandarin Grill & Bar serves breakfast and lunch on weekdays, and dinner daily (with early close on Sundays). Bookings are essential.
Mandarin Grill & Bar- the Dining Room
Mandarin Grill cuisine
The consummate modern grill cuisine created by the Mandarin Grill chefs epitomises Executive Chef Uwe’s progressive approach to gastronomy – deftly combining traditional European cooking techniques with a creative flair for contemporary combinations of ingredients and artistic presentation. Seasonal specialties periodically supplement the menu of signature dishes, prepared from premier quality organic ingredients meticulously sourced by Chef Uwe from trusted growers and purveyors. Desserts are a highlight – with the full creative repertoire expressed in a selection of remarkable dishes.
(food images courtesy Mandarin Oriental)
Mandarin Grill & Bar – the Bar
An impressive wine list curated by Head Sommelier Ken Wong offers a broad selection of exceptional wines from preeminent wine labels. While at the bar, the drinks list features NV champagnes by the glass, champagne cocktails, a concise list of refreshing classic and Asian-inflected cocktails, plus a full selection of premium spirits, single malts, and cognacs. Fresh oysters to accompany the drinks can be served from the Crustaceans Bar adjacent to the lounge.
