Chow Kit is an area steeped in rich history, which is named after the influential Chinese businessman, Loke Chow Kit, whose legacy from 1862 to 1918 helped shape Kuala Lumpur's vibrant identity.

Known for its bustling markets and storied alleys, the neighbourhood has long been a melting pot of cultures and a living testament to Malaysia's dynamic past. The Chow Kit Hotel, a striking landmark within this colourful district, mirrors this spirit, and offering guests an immersive experience that goes beyond typical hospitality.

Launched in 2019, the hotel is managed by Ormond Group and represents a revitalisation of local culture, serving as a modern homage to Chow Kit’s layered heritage. This project is also the first in Asia by the Brooklyn-based design collective Post Company, celebrated for its culturally resonant designs. They’ve brought to life a space that reflects the neighbourhood’s unique charm through subtle nods to the past, and blending it with contemporary chic.

Vibe

The Chow Kit Hotel embraces a mood-driven aesthetic, setting it apart from the typical hotel ambiance. The low-lit, cosy atmosphere is softened by natural light filtering through windows that span one side of the lobby, lending an intimate feel to the restaurant and bar on the first floor. However, as someone with less-than-perfect eyesight, I find reading the menu a bit challenging in the evening, when darkness falls and the tables are illuminated only by small table lamps.

The overall ambiance in the lobby is modern with a nostalgic twist that pulls you into the area’s history. However, stepping into the lift brings a shift in mood – the soft, moody feel gives way to a lively atmosphere, with upbeat music playing continuously. It adds a surprising burst of energy, making even the short ride up to your room feel pumped.

Room

We stayed in one of the Towkay Suites, the second largest suite at 22sqm/240sqft. It is sized sufficiently for a king-size bed, also includes a sofa and a tea table alongside two single-seater armchairs. It’s a tightly arranged space but adequate for two guests, and a baby cod upon request.

Though space for luggage is a bit limited. You can open a 21-inch suitcase comfortably by the sofa and squeeze another one under the dressing table, but beyond that, you may feel a bit constrained.

The design in the bathroom is with practical touches. The rain shower, for example, has a wall-mounted tap on the side instead of under the shower that allows you to adjust the temperature from a safe distance, a welcome change from the usual setup that has you ducking under the showerhead to avoid the first burst of cold water. Though I wish there was a door to block out water from spilling into the rest of the bathroom during the shower.

The hotel’s hair, hand and body shampoo are bespoke Jeanie Botanicals, an organic brand exclusively crafted for Chow Kit. While they’re high-quality and beautifully scented, they may not be ideal for everyone’s skin needs. If you have specific sensitivities or preferences, it’s wise to bring along your own essentials. Also, consider packing a lotion, as the set doesn’t include one.

From left: Towkay suite's space, shower area in the bathroom and bespoke Jeanie Botanicals shampoos. [Photo: Kim Choong]

Another notable aspect of the suite’s layout is its multifunctional dressing area, which doubles up as an open wardrobe. Hangers are conveniently placed above the dressing table, with a mini-fridge and safe tucked below. The dim, moody lighting continues in the suite, which does set a nice evening atmosphere but makes detailed tasks, like applying makeup, rather difficult if curtains are closed during the day or after dark. 

In terms of amenities, the Towkay suite covers the essentials – toothbrushes and toothpaste are available upon request, but the room doesn’t come with a kettle or any in-room coffee or tea options. If you’re craving a warm drink, you can order from room service or pop down to the hotel bar, which serves a selection of coffees, teas, and delectable cocktails and mocktails. It slightly detracts from the self-contained experience often expected in modern hotel rooms and prompt you to go explore the hotel's restaurant and bar.

Culinary

The culinary experience at The Chow Kit Hotel is a celebration of local heritage, blending Peranakan and Malay flavours into dishes that stay true to Malaysia’s rich gastronomic roots. It is non-pork, and uses locally-sourced ingredients from the nearby Chow Kit market that offers an authentic taste of the neighbourhood while elevating traditional flavours into sophisticated presentations.

The Chow Kit Platters is a multiple-dish order suitable for 2 to 3 pax that showcases an array of small plates great for sharing.

Start with small bites like Bergedil Sumbat, a fried potato patty stuffed with flavoursome fillings, or the refreshing Kerabu Mangga with Squid, a tangy mango salad balanced with tender squid. The main courses are divided into classic Peranakan-Malay dishes, allowing guests to choose from comfort option such as Nyonya Kari Kapitan, a thick, spiced chicken curry; Kambing Kuzi, a rich, aromatic lamb stew; or non-spicy Daging Hitam Manis, sweet and savoury slow-cooked beef.

For seafood, options like Squid Sambal Petai, featuring spicy sambal and earthy petai beans, or Ikan Assam Pedas, a sour and spicy fish stew, showcase local ingredients and robust flavours. Vegetable side dishes, such as the crunchy Kacang Botol (winged beans) or the richly spiced Terung Balado (eggplant with Balado sauce), complement the mains and balance the spread. Desserts, like Royal Pudding or Pineapple Cheesecake, conclude the meal with a sweet nod to local fruits and flavours.

The Chow Kit Kitchen & Bar also shines in its cocktail offerings, where familiar classics are given a local twist. Each cocktail incorporates ingredients that pay homage to Malaysian flavours: the Calamansi Tom Collins delivers a bright, tangy edge from local citrus. The Asam Boi Paloma, traditionally a tequila-based drink, features pomelo (a fruit commonly grown in Perak), asam boi, and soda, blending the popular Kedongdong Jeruk Asam Boi into an alcoholic version. The Gula Melaka Penicillin, inspired by the smoky flavours of a classic Penicillin cocktail, adds a delightful Malaysian twist with the inclusion of Gula Melaka, a local palm sugar. Be sure to try their beautifully presented Kantan Jungle Bird, a riff on a Malaysian classic created in 1973.

Open daily from 7am to 10:30pm, the restaurant provides a wide window for guests to enjoy everything from a local breakfast to a refined dinner. For an exclusive dining experience, book the PRIVATE @ The Chow Kit above the main restaurant, designed to provide a more intimate setting away from the buzz below.

Momo’s

Just next door to The Chow Kit Hotel, Momo’s Kuala Lumpur offers a refreshing contrast with its playful, energetic vibe. Geared toward a younger crowd, Momo’s combines a vibrant aesthetic with a relaxed, fun atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for travellers seeking a more casual, social experience. The hotel’s lively bar, popular among locals and visitors alike, is known for its upbeat ambience and creative cocktails, providing a laid-back spot to gather with friends or meet fellow travellers.

From left: Asam Boi Paloma and Kantan Jungle Bird. [Photos: Kim Choong]

Momo’s regularly hosts cocktail workshops, usually on Friday or Saturday evenings, inviting guests to learn bartending basics and experiment with different flavours and techniques. These workshops make a great start to the evening, allowing guests to craft their own cocktails before heading out for dinner. 

Conclusion

The Chow Kit Hotel offers an ideal base for travellers seeking to explore Kuala Lumpur. Its central location makes it easy to reach local attractions and transport hubs, with convenient access to MRT and Monorail stations nearby – a major advantage for those opting to get around without a car. The hotel’s entrance also features a semi-sheltered pickup area for e-hailing services, though during heavy rains, you may need an umbrella if you’re retrieving luggage from the back.

Overall, The Chow Kit combines chic, moody ambience with a well-thought-out design, creating a sophisticated yet comfortable space. The rooms offer restful sleep on high-quality mattresses and bedding, and the pillows strike just the right balance of firmness for an undisturbed night. The duvet, too, is thoughtfully selected to keep guests comfortably cool. The blackout curtains and soundproof windows are a big plus.

Though I appreciated the hotel’s lively vibe, a gentler soundtrack in the lift might add to the relaxed feel. My only real frustrations during the stay were with the low lighting and menu fonts, which can be challenging for reading and for tasks like makeup application. The rooms lack a dedicated dressing mirror, and the bathroom lighting is also on the dim side, which might make getting ready a bit inconvenient, particularly when sharing the space.

These small details aside, The Chow Kit is a well-curated and atmospheric hotel, perfectly suited for those looking to immerse themselves in the unique heritage of Kuala Lumpur’s Chow Kit district while enjoying a modern, boutique experience.

Most importantly, their food and cocktails are not to be missed.

The Chow Kit Hotel - 1012 Jalan Sultan Ismail, Chow Kit Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. +603 2778 6666

- T -