Bangkok’s dining scene welcomes a new cultural landmark with the opening of The China House by Chef Fei at Mandarin Oriental. Designed by Steve Leung Design Group, the restaurant transforms a heritage property into a space where travellers and locals alike can savour the beauty of Chaoshan and Cantonese traditions, reinterpreted for the modern era.
Set within a 1,100-square-metre heritage house beside the hotel’s entrance, the restaurant celebrates the flavours and traditions of Chaoshan (Chaozhou and Shantou) and Cantonese cuisine.
The unveiling of The China House coincides with a key milestone for Steve Leung Design Group: the recent opening of the Bangkok office as part of the company’s 2025 strategy focused on rejuvenation, diversification, and globalisation. With a talented local design team, SLD is well-positioned to reveal further exciting projects in Southeast Asia and beyond.
The design of The China House follows the concept of “Stealthy Savour”, where tradition and discovery are layered through subtle details and crafted artistry. Mai Chongchaiyo, Chief Creative Officer of Steve Leung Hospitality, calls it “contemporary nostalgia” – not a replica of the past, but a curated essence reinterpreted for today.
A defining strength of The China House is the blend of Chaoshan heritage with Thai craftsmanship. Collaborations with Pin Metal Art, Jim Thompson, Bellitas, and Siam Woodland introduce local artistry through pendant lights, wall coverings, furniture, and timber, adding depth and authenticity.
Luxurious finishes such as marble flooring and intricate metalwork complete a setting that balances cultural heritage with contemporary design.
The architectural storytelling at The China House spans two floors, embodying the Chinese value of happiness as tied to unity, gathering, and celebration. The ground floor features a welcoming bar and lounge with a wood and deep burgundy palette, teal accents, and red abacus-inspired curtains.
Iconic Phoenix Crown pendant lights symbolise joy passed through generations, enhancing the emotional impact of the design.
A dedicated tea bar showcases Chaoshan’s tea-pairing culture, featuring a dramatic ceiling design, natural stone, and artisanal furnishings. Together with the adjoining lounge, it offers an elegant backdrop for seasonal tea and food pairings.
Upstairs, the main dining halls are complemented by four private rooms, including a VVIP suite for major celebrations and gatherings. With rich textures, bespoke lighting, and curated artwork, these spaces provide versatile settings for family milestones and refined entertaining.
With the unveiling of The China House, SLD strengthens its role as a bridge between tradition and modern hospitality, while expanding its presence across Asia with landmark projects in Singapore and Japan.
