Tokyo drift-off
Hotel Toranomon Hills debuts with luxurious accommodations and amazing food options for business and leisure travellers
Hotel Toranomon Hills, part of The Unbound Collection by Hyatt and the first in Asia, debuted on Dec 6, 2023, setting a new benchmark for luxury and sophistication. Located at the heart of Tokyo within the Toranomon Hills Station Tower, this hotel is for both pleasure-seekers and corporate jetsetters.
Apart from being directly connected to a subway station, the hotel is within walking distance of some of Tokyo’s most famous tourist attractions, like the Imperial Palace, which is not too far from Tokyo Station. The hotel is also located just 30 minutes away from Haneda International Airport and just a few subway stations away from shopping districts such as Ginza and Roppongi.
The hotel’s design, inspired by Danish and Japanese aesthetics, is the work of Space Copenhagen, offering a tranquil retreat in the bustling city. The hotel caters to business and leisure travellers with 205 stylish rooms, including 175 standard rooms ranging from 290 sq ft to 430 sq ft and 30 suites ranging from 517 sq ft to 1,722 sq ft.
While the hotel has no event or function rooms, its two Toranomon Suite duplexes measuring 1,722 sq ft can be used for intimate meetings, private events and overnight stays. The suite has flexible spaces for meeting, dining and entertaining: A living room and a fully equipped kitchen on the lower level, while the upper level houses a convertible bedroom and a bathroom.
Options had the opportunity to stay at Hotel Toranomon Hills. I was put in the Deluxe Room, which was surprisingly spacious. Its elegant design harmonises Danish and Japanese aesthetics and the room provides a serene and comfortable environment. The ample space is truly a rarity in Tokyo, making it a perfect sanctuary after a day in the bustling city. With its thoughtful amenities and sophisticated decor, this room embodies a blend of functionality and luxury, making it a memorable and positive stay for me.
For guests arriving early before their room is ready or leaving late after checkout time, The Lounge in Hotel Toranomon Hills provides a serene space to relax, complete with snacks and refreshments, private resting areas, shower facilities and a stunning view of the Tokyo skyline. The lounge also has a space to store luggage safely, so you can drop it there while you explore Tokyo conveniently and come back later to retrieve your belongings.
These are just some of the thoughtful facilities that Hotel Toranomon Hills offers. Another noteworthy space within the hotel is the restaurant — Le Pristine Tokyo.
Under the helm of Michelin-starred chef Sergio Herman, Le Prestine Tokyo at Hotel Toranomon Hills is his first in Asia. The first Le Pristine in Asia was supposed to open in Singapore at the Grand Hyatt Singapore. However, due to construction delays, the one in Singapore is expected to launch this year.
Herman combines contemporary European cuisine with a cosmopolitan flair, using select produce from the Dutch province of Zeeland and seasonal Japanese ingredients. This dining experience promises to be a sophisticated fusion of food, fashion, design, art and music, offering a creative and laid-back atmosphere that will enchant guests and locals alike.
A four-course meal at Le Prestine starts from JPY17,000 ($154.30). The menu changes according to seasonal ingredients. During my visit, some notable dishes included Tokyo-inspired fish soup, rice, bonito, squid and saffron; Orecchiette Zeelandaise; and strawberry, yuzu and pink pepper dessert.
Every dish here has been meticulously crafted to combine traditional and modern techniques while introducing Japanese ingredients into European cuisine. The kitchen at Le Pristine Tokyo is helmed by executive chef Dennis Kuipers, who has worked for many well-known restaurants and was inaugurated as a member of the “Gilde van Nederlandse Meesterkoks” (Dutch Master Chefs Guild) — the highest achievement for a Dutch chef. Kuipers also achieved his first Michelin star in 2009.
For something more casual or lunch dining, the Le Pristine Café offers a more laid-back affair. Breakfast for hotel guests is served here and guests can enjoy a specially selected breakfast menu and a breakfast buffet spread. Breakfast and lunch share a similar flair, thoughtfully incorporating Japanese ingredients into European dishes.
Hotel Toranomon Hills offers outstanding accommodations and services and an exceptional dining experience at Le Pristine Tokyo, making it a top destination for luxury and culinary enthusiasts in the Japanese capital.