When citing gentrification success stories, the neighborhood of Chow Kit in Kuala Lumpur should come to mind. Even though it has a history that walks a fine line between exhilarating and dark, the once-infamous red-light district has seen tremendous transformation in recent years.
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| Photo: Chow Kit Hotel |
Since the Chow Kit neighborhood's streets and alleyways are inseparably linked to a vibrant canon of past anecdotes, these tales have been preserved in the district's stunning renaissance, which is replete with art and eccentric new architecture.
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| The lobby connects the Bar to the Kitchen, Lounge, Function rooms and to its sister hostel, the Momo's |
Counted among many quirky cafes, hip bars and trendy hang-out places, is the boutique-looking The Chow Kit by Ormond Hotel.
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| The hotel is near several interesting spots which makes an early morning walk a must activity |
The Chow Kit is conceptualized by Ormond Hotel to bridge the city's past into the present. Drawing inspiration from its heritage-laden surroundings, guests are re-introduced to Kuala Lumpur’s colorful character through its 113 rooms that blend tradition with contemporary designs.
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| Various works of art curated by The Black Room owner Liza Ho can be found displayed in the lobby. |
I had the good fortune of staying at Chow Kit by Ormond Hotel for a few nights during the latter half of our almost weeklong trip to Kuala Lumpur with Cebu Pacific Air and fellow travel writers.
A Colonial and Noir Vibe Persists
It was already nighttime when we arrived at the hotel. After a full day of exploring the city of Kuala Lumpur, all I wanted was to crawl into to a soft bed. That plan was nixed when we walked inside the lobby that appears like a setting from a 1950’s noir movie.
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| Fancy a drink at the bar |
Artworks, framed photographs, vermillion to red crimson layered rugs and tiles, richly patterned fabrics, and artisan lounge chairs and sofas glowed golden in the low-key lighting of the entrance hall and the bar, creating a striking contrast between shadows and light.
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| Framed photographs and old newspaper clippings related to the history of Chow Kit neighborhood hangs on the wall |
Suddenly, I feel like spending more time in the lobby with a glass of rum in hand or any other drink.
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| The Chow Kit Kitchen & Bar is a favorite even among non-guests of the property |
I think about this as the bartender at the hotel’s bar — The Chow Kit Kitchen & Bar — shakes a cocktail drink to serve to a lady in long black gown. I figured, I can be the Humphrey Bogart and have a drink with her. But I needed to shower first. Most of all, I am badly in need of a sleep.
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| My room is classified as the Den, the simplest in the hotel but equally well designed |
I proceeded to my room where it opened to a modestly sized layout. What it lacks in roomy space, it surely made up with its aesthetics.
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| The industrial rain-shower room and other interesting details enhances the room's design |
A hint of colonial style with some European décor touches and brass accents plus a floor to ceiling glass window had me drooling at its interior design in a jiffy.
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| The Den, named after Chow Kit's historically infamous gambling den - the Chow Kit |
A little alteration to the bathroom had me perplexed at times. Since the bathroom basin is located near the bed and outside the shower room, I always find myself bringing my toothbrush inside wondering briefly where the sink is.
Michelin-approved Stay and Eats
When an establishment is featured in MICHELIN Guide's "Best Hotels in Malaysia", it better be an amazing hotel and one that also offer good culinary delights.
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| The breakfast I had during our stay the dinner platter we ordered |
The Chow Kit by Ormond Hotel is not only highly recommended by MICHELIN but also named by Travel + Leisure and the World Travel Awards as among the best new hotels in the world.
I had my first taste of The Chow Kit Kitchen & Bar the next morning on our breakfast. While they don’t offer a buffet, the ala carte menu seems well curated with lots of interesting food items to try.
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| The private function room called "The Library" is decorated by the production designer of a Wes Anderson movie. Kidding. |
Of course, I ignored everything but the Nasi Lemak which arrived artfully plated with a quarter of fried chicken and the standard fare of toasted peanuts, crispy anchovies, cucumber, and a boiled egg, all of which were enhanced by the oozing redness of sambal sauce.
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| For those who wants a larger space may book the Towkay Suite or the Boss Suite |
On our final evening, we dined here, where we sampled a variety of their offerings, including their signature platter of sambal merah, hijau, and nasi ulam. The aromas, spices, and flavors that wafted from the kitchen and onto our table were indescribable.
As far as architecture, comfort and culinary go, factors one always looks for in choosing a hotel, the Chow Kit by Ormond Hotel ticks all the boxes and then adds some more. There’s a sense that local history, arts and culture are given significance in this property and as a guest, one is inclined not only to enjoy a convenient stay, but also learn a thing or two about this colorful part of Kuala Lumpur.
