Robb Report Hong Kong’s Inaugural Leaders of Luxury Summit Was a Historic Convergence of Luxury Industry Leaders

Robb Report Hong’s first-ever Leaders of Luxury Summit was an exceptional affair that gathered a global audience to pave the way to the future of the luxury industry.

Robb Report has transported its global community of readers, industry leaders, and private-club members to the most extraordinary destinations and exclusive events for decades, influencing work and leisure in equal measure. On 27 November 2024, Robb Report Hong Kong gathered more than 50 important delegates from their respective luxury and lifestyle industries to congregate at Regent Hong Kong for the inaugural edition of the Leaders of Luxury Summit, a platform for discussion, engagement, and thought leadership aided by the Hong Kong Tourism Board as the major supporting organisation.

And come they did from far and wide as many took to the stage to speak on behalf of—and occasionally in defence of—their industry, making it a historic event in the global social calendar as over 550 by-invitation-only registered guests heard heads of industry speak on a range of topics during an eventful, chock-a-block day filled with 12 spotlights and panels.

Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong

The Aubrey at The Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, Unveils Kaizen Cocktail Menu, Marrying Tradition with Innovation

In a bold move that underscores its commitment to continuous improvement, The Aubrey, perched majestically on the 25th floor of the Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, has launched its much-anticipated Volume 3 Menu: the Kaizen Cocktail Menu. This introduction comes on the heels of the bar's recent accolade as the tenth best establishment in Asia’s 50 Best Bars, further solidifying its reputation as a beacon of cocktail innovation.

Inspired by the Japanese philosophy of "Kaizen," which advocates for gradual and continuous enhancement, this new menu represents a significant evolution in The Aubrey’s cocktail offerings. At the helm of this creative endeavour is Assistant General Manager and Beverage Manager, Devender Kumar, who has meticulously overseen the development of eight signature cocktails that pay homage to both traditional classics and contemporary interpretations.

Central to this menu is shochu, a revered Japanese spirit celebrated for its versatility and nuanced flavours. Kumar articulates the challenge and excitement of centring the cocktail programme around this lesser-known spirit, stating, “Sourcing premium shochu can be tricky, as many bottles are allocation-only, but it’s worth it for the unique qualities they bring to the menu.” As shochu gains traction in high-end bars, The Aubrey positions itself at the forefront of this trend, showcasing the spirit's potential to elevate the cocktail experience.

Each cocktail on the Kaizen menu is a testament to the artistry of The Aubrey’s mixologists. Highlights include the Glory Gimlet, which introduces bergamot and cardamom alongside traditional ingredients, and the Noble Man, a modern twist on the Boulevardier featuring dessert wine for added depth. The Twenty Twenty-Four Fashion reimagines the Old Fashioned, replacing whiskey with barrel-aged shochu, resulting in a drink that retains its classic essence while enhancing complexity.

With this new menu, The Aubrey not only pays tribute to its roots but also embraces the ethos of innovation. Each cocktail is a celebration of Japanese heritage, seamlessly integrating traditional flavours with modern mixology techniques. As patrons indulge in these thoughtfully crafted drinks, they partake in a unique narrative of evolution and refinement that defines The Aubrey’s philosophy.

For those seeking an extraordinary drinking experience, The Aubrey’s Kaizen Cocktail Menu promises an exquisite journey through flavour and tradition, inviting guests to savour the art of continuous improvement.

Cat speak: The Most Perfect Tuxedo Cat in the World.

 

Hong Kong club scene: Too Many Too Soon

 

Recently, there's been a steady stream of invites to cover happenings at private and not-so-private clubs. 

Hmm. 

Behind the Scenes: Video shoot of Lorenzo Antinori at the Best Bar in Asia: Bar Leone

Behind the Scenes: Video shoot of Lorenzo Antinori at the Best Bar in Asia: Bar Leone. 

 

This HK$23,000 Luxury Pet Bed Is the Latest Accessory For Your Pampered Pooch

Interior designer Britta Butler’s latest work addresses several pet concerns.

In the realm of high-end interiors where bespoke furniture reigns supreme—especially in Hong Kong—pet insurance company OneDegree surveyed 526 pet owners, only to discover they spend an average of HK$680,000 raising their animal friends—more than any other Asian counterpart! Now, a new contender is raising the bar in pet luxury.

Launched by interior designer Britta Butler, The Liebling’s luxury pet bed merges impeccable design with comfort, catering to discerning pet owners who refuse to compromise on the sophisticated style of their own home or their pampered furry family member’s whims.

Butler, the founder and renowned design director of B Squared Design, has a keen eye for aesthetics, honed through years of crafting exquisite residences across key addresses in the world. Recognising a glaring gap in the market for aesthetically pleasing pet furniture, Butler embarked on a journey to create a product that would not only provide a restful haven for pets but also complement the luxurious interiors of their homes.

Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.

Phuket’s House of Tin Baron Ushers In a Culinary Renaissance With 2 New Dining Ventures

What’s better than one extraordinary dining experience? Two, obviously.

Phuket’s gastronomic landscape, a smorgasbord of native, traditional, and international cuisines, is set to transform with the imminent opening of the House of Tin Baron, a luxurious lifestyle destination that promises to elevate dining to an art form. 

Launching on 1 December, this historic, revitalised venue in the heart of Phuket Old Town introduces two extraordinary culinary experiences: the first Louis Roederer Cristal Room in the world, and the exquisite Italian fine-dining restaurant Terra.

The Louis Roederer Cristal Room will be a bubbling sanctuary for Champagne aficionados, dedicated to the illustrious legacy of Louis Roederer Cristal. Established in 1876 for Alexander II of Russia, this exclusive space offers a curated selection of rare vintages, including the celebrated Cristal Brut 2008 and the opulent Cristal Rosé. Guests can indulge in a meticulously crafted tasting experience, guided by a knowledgeable sommelier, all while enjoying the soothing sounds of live piano music. The ambiance is nothing short of spectacular, designed to uplift each sip into a remarkable occasion, giving shape to the golden philosophy of why wait for an occasion to celebrate, when every day is a celebration. 

Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.

Cats: They Hear you, they just don't care to.

 Umm hmm. 

The Olsen Twins: Meme'd

Quasi-billionaires by the time they were 21, they turned out remarkably sane, but the net sure has a field day with the famed Olsen twins. 

Back in the day, had the pleasure of interviewing both when they came to Hong Kong--their clothes were available at Lane Crawford and the two were doing publicity in the city. 

Both were charming, erudite and had their heads firmly in place. 

They had a manager who was... perpetually vexed and clearly jet-lagged cause whoaaaa not nice to the HK crew. 

The girls were lovely-- the entire interview is in the archive here: Sibling Revelry: The Olsen Twins

Stunning McLaren Artura Spider Hybrid Supercar Arrives in Hong Kong

The new Artura Spider made its debut in Hong Kong as McLaren’s first-ever high-performance hybrid convertible, adding a new dimension to the McLaren supercar range.

When the covers came off the new McLaren Artura Spider in Hong Kong, the high-performance, dream-machine convertible’s presence was nothing short of a thrill that only supercars can ignite, especially from such a stellar marquee. While the familiar sculpted lines and signature styling cues of the Artura coupé are all present, the addition of the retractable hard-top roof and accompanying design elements lend the Spider a distinct colourful character that’s all its own.

As expected, this is no mere sun-seeking variant—the Spider was engineered from the ground up to deliver the same dynamic prowess as its fixed-roof counterpart, with the added exhilaration of open-air driving. No wonder it was a top contender for Robb Report’s Car of the Year.

Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong. 

TBT: Robb Report Hong Kong's Second Edition of Culinary Masters

Not that I had a fav chef at Culinary Masters, but Chef Garima Arora and I chatted like long lost friends - or perhaps I was babbling on about Bollywood celebs and she was a patient listener who laughed a lot. I didn't post much that week as we were on our toes working, writing, reporting non-stop... but looking back, it was tremendous. 

Over the course of three days and two nights, MGM x RR1HK Culinary Masters Macau 2024 was the place to be for a thrilling programme of gastronomic, artistic, and cultural activities designed to entice, entertain, and enlighten local and international VIP guests, but the work for the dining extravaganza began months ago to ensure that this RR1 Signature Event was one for the ages. 

At the final curtain call for this year’s Culinary Masters in Macau, nearly 150 people took to the stage to take their bow—a defining moment in the history of gastronomic events held in the region. A historic event to mark another, the theme “Savor 700 Years of Silk Road Flavors: A Gastronomic Odyssey” was on the mind of all participants in front and behind the scenes. 

Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Macau Special Administrative Region and the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the occasion coincided with the 700 years since the passing of the renowned Silk Road explorer Marco Polo, and marking the rich legacy of the intrepid explorer in a timely and apt way was always on the cards. Macau provided the perfect backdrop with its East-meets-West history, and to show that on a plate courtesy of six incredible chefs was ingenious. 

Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.

House of Suntory’s 2024 Tsukuriwake Series Presents Exquisite Japanese Whiskies in Four Chapters

Four drops for the season that we are coveting just before Christmas. 

Traditionalists, fervent aficionados, and connoisseurs know that Japanese whisky is nothing to sniff at. Wait, the premise of that may be wrong—it is something to sniff at, as the magical aromas of premium peat from distilleries from the East are things of marvel, and a level of perfection that perhaps only the Japanese can do with precision. Our esteemed bon mots wrote in Robb Report Hong Kong’s Best of Wines & Spirits section, “As you would expect with Yamazaki, the golden-amber-coloured whisky is all about refinement, purity, and subtlety—there is no heaviness on the mid-palate and the finish is clean.”

Well, the House of Suntory that brought us one of last year’s finest whiskies has just launched its stellar 2024 Tsukuriwake Series, a limited-edition collection that epitomises the essence of innovation and diversity in whisky-making. Its latest offering not only continues the legacy of excellence but also deepens the narrative of Japanese whisky on the global stage.

Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.

Inside Courtroom, a New Hong Kong Cocktail Bar With a Cheeky Judicial Theme

No objections to this hot drinking spot in Central.

Nestled on the slopes of Graham Street, Courtroom has entered Hong Kong’s bar scene with a unique blend of whimsy and whiskies, sophistication and style, and a bang for your buck. Co-founded by industry veterans Saan Dhakal and Ranjeet Khatri, this innovative venue draws inspiration from notorious court cases that straddle the thin blue line between the serious and the absurd, creating an atmosphere that is both playful and refined, doing full justice to both realms of seemingly contradictory ideation—it’s some serious fun. 

Even the bar’s logo—a cheeky monkey swinging from legal scales—encapsulates its duality, embodying a mischievous spirit while respecting the gravitas of legal proceedings. At first look, we found nothing objectionable. Upon entering, guests are welcomed by a dark wood interior adorned with judiciary-themed décor, including a witness stand table and a judge’s bench, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.

Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.

Cartier’s New Tutti Tutti Collection Is a Story of Expression, Innovation, and Elegance

The new launch may have innovative design, structure, and colour scheme, but its approach is classic Cartier.

The latest chapter in the illustrious legacy of Cartier is Tutti Tutti, the latest addition to the Cartier Libre collection, a testament to the maison’s insatiable desire for innovation and artistic expression brought to life through a technicolour smorgasbord of accessories. 

For the connoisseurs, the original Cartier Tutti Frutti high-jewellery collection was a game-changer for the French luxury brand as it captured the zeitgeist upon release back in the early 1920s. It was the Art Deco movement, its fashion and styles, and the mood of the moment captured in exquisite, precious stone as the maison’s high jewellery was dutifully embraced by high society. Lifting a leaf from that historic branch, the new Tutti Tutti collection enhances the narrative. Hot off the Cartier Libre auspices—the watch, jewellery, and accessories section of Cartier—the new pieces take a brazen look at bold fun.

Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.

Same, same, But Different! Jungle cat vs Urban cat

Cats. 
 

Hong Kong Temperature Drops: Slighty

 Caturday. 

First Look: Island Shangri-La’s Newly Renovated Eponymous Suite Is an Oasis in the Sky

Even for the well-seasoned traveller, the Shangri-La Suite is a cut above the rest.

In the ever-evolving landscape of luxury accommodations, few properties manage to retain their allure while simultaneously embracing modernity. Hong Kong is crowned with incredible hotels famed the world over, and one of the jewels on the diadem indubitably is the Island Shangri-La, a storied establishment that has recently unveiled its magnificent Shangri-La Suite following an extensive renovation that redefines modern Asian opulence.

Island Shangri-La first opened in March 1991, the sophisticated cousin of the Kowloon Shangri-La. A makeover in phases, from rooftop to basement, has been quietly in the works over the past few years, and after a soft launch of the Shangri-la Suite in June, Robb Report Hong Kong was invited to test the premises with a stay in its colourful, maximalist, expansive, expensive, multi-functional, multi-roomed, and panoramic-view-filled mega-suite. 

Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.

Of Gown and Glory: 15 Years of S Nine by Susanna Soo

Susanna Soo Atelier, alongside her renowned Ready-to-Wear label, S.Nine by Susanna Soo, celebrated an impressive 15 years in fashion with a presentation of her latest line of gowns, dresses and dazzling ensembles at a by-invitation-only gathering at The Grand Hyatt Hong Kong. 

This exclusive event, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the city’s skyline, not only commemorated a decade and a half of S.Nine’s distinctive elegance but also unveiled the brand's much-anticipated 2024 Collection. Since its inception in 2009 in Hong Kong, S.Nine by Susanna Soo has embraced modern femininity, seamlessly marrying sophisticated tailoring with innovative, body-conscious, distinctly feminine silhouettes. 

Susanna’s vision has captivated audiences worldwide, her creations resonating with a sense of classic beauty that she aims to instil in every wearer. The Atelier line adds an exquisite couture dimension, showcasing her unwavering commitment to craftsmanship and individuality. 

After a full presentation with some of the top models in town (several more in the audience as fans, buyers and collectors opted to wear her signature pieces), Susanna revealed her vision for the future, with a collection inspired by the rich tapestry of Hong Kong’s culture and its global influence. 

"Tonight, we celebrate 15 years of S.Nine," she said to an audience of fashion aficionados, editors, stylists and industry elites. "Every piece in this collection tells a part of my journey, influenced by the remarkable women I’ve had the privilege to dress. I am profoundly grateful to all who have supported me along this path; your encouragement has been instrumental in reaching this milestone." 

The evening's success was augmented by the generous support of sponsors including Walter Makeup, RARE SkinFuel, abyssian, and Empire Wine Hong Kong. 

Skyline & Style, the theme of the evening, not only celebrated S.Nine’s illustrious past but also offered a tantalising glimpse into its promising future. As Susanna Soo continues to create her legacy one incredible outfit at a time, her Atelier and luxury label, endures. 

Follow the Designer on Instagram here. 

Official Website: S Nine.

Below: Some fav ready to wear pieces: 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by S.Nine by Susanna Soo (@sninebysusannasoo)

Darshan Mehta, President and CEO of India’s Billion-Dollar Luxury Retail Company Reliance Brands Limited, Confirmed as Keynote Speaker at Leaders of Luxury Summit 2024

The president and CEO of Reliance Brands Limited, the biggest player in the lifestyle and luxury market in India, is heading to Robb Report Hong Kong’s first summit.

Robb Report Hong Kong is delighted to announce that Darshan Mehta, the president and CEO of Reliance Brands Limited (RBL), a subsidiary of US$125 billion market-cap company and India’s largest conglomerate Reliance Industries Limited, is joining the highly anticipated Leaders of Luxury Summit 2024 as our opening keynote spotlight speaker.

In the dynamic landscape of luxury retail, few figures stand as prominently as Darshan Mehta. As part of the vast portfolio owned by the Ambani family—the wealthiest in Asia and the 9th wealthiest in the world, as per Forbes—there’s little the family company can do without causing ripples across the nation.

At the helm of one of India’s foremost luxury retail companies, Mehta has been instrumental in redefining the contours of the luxury market in the country, melding global brands with local sensibilities while maintaining the essence of exclusivity. Famously, Mehta has stated that he doesn’t like the word “luxury” and its connotations, and prefers to eschew it to embrace “the finer things in life.” He casts a wide net with that phrase, for it could mean something as simple as bringing franchise food chain Pret a Manger to India, or the finest fashion from Ferragamo. Mono brands, global brands, designer brands, jewellery—he has overseen partnerships that have elevated the fashion stakes in India.

Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.

Van Cleef & Arpels’s Radiant Perlée Collection Celebrates Craftsmanship and Elegance

Indeed, the path to bejewelled heaven is paved in gold and diamonds.

With a legacy stretching back to 1906, in the illustrious world of haute joaillerie, few names resonate so profoundly with star, high society, and celebrity with the same level of prestige as Van Cleef & Arpels. Even today, the French maison continues to push the boundaries of creativity and craftsmanship, and the Perlée collection—the house’s latest offering—is a resplendent testament to this enduring commitment to fine jewellery.

A little history tidbit here: the Perlée motif has been a Van Cleef & Arpels signature since the 1920s. Perhaps not as instantly recognisable as the famed Alhambra motif that has been all the rage since its launch, but the beaded collection—perlée in French refers to the bead pattern—remains a firm favourite. As the gold- and diamond-studded spherical beads mix and match with any look, intermittently, the maison has released novel ideas and stones to add to the formidable roster of bejewelled accessories. Just this past summer, Van Cleef & Arpels revealed this latest line in pictures, and come November, another take is expected on our shores as the latest additions to the exalted Perlée collection roll into the city.

Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.

Prada and Axiom Space Unveil New Spacesuits, a Stylish Leap into Lunar Exploration

One small step for man, one giant leap for space-age fashion.

In a groundbreaking collaboration that fuses high fashion with cutting-edge aerospace engineering, Axiom Space and Prada have finally unveiled the Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU) spacesuit, destined for NASA’s Artemis III mission.

Almost exactly a year ago, we first wrote about this high-fashion and high-space partnership as it made ripples in the fashion hemisphere. Now, the innovative design has just been revealed at the International Astronautical Congress in Milan, showcasing a fusion of creativity and engineering that promises to redefine spacesuit functionality and aesthetics.

Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.

Sunday blues:

Funny cause its true... 

 

I amaze myself...

 What a Saturday... 

Couturier Guo Pei on Dreaming Fashion, the Evolution of the Global Fashion Narrative, and Celebrating the Beauty of Simplicity and Complexity

Her work leapt off the pages of fashion magazines to the art world early on, but her exhibition at a venerated museum solidifies her legacy as an artist of note.

“Overwhelming” is the word that comes to mind at first glance of the red, alien bridal number from the Legends collection, a hedonistic chapter, and one of five, on exhibit in the cavernous halls of M+ contemporary visual arts museum. The 40 pieces on display, standing on elevated platforms, are curated designer confections from the grand portfolio of Guo Pei, each piece etching its mark in the annals of fashion history.

Guo, possibly the most famous couturier to emerge from China on the global stage, is the visionary designer renowned for her intricate craftsmanship and artistic acumen, creating otherworldly ensembles that fuse art, history, and craftsmanship in ways hitherto unimagined. She has even captured the imagination of audiences worldwide, particularly since songstress Rihanna wore her golden cape to the Met Gala in 2015.

As Guo prepares to showcase some of her most iconic works, one early morning before the crowds saunter in, we at Robb Report Hong Kong had an exclusive conversation with the couturier. Delving into her creative process, the significance of her journey, and her reflections on the evolving landscape of fashion, much was discussed.

Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.