St. Regis Hong Kong Focus
The midnight supper is a treasured tradition at St. Regis hotels, and the latest addition to the House of Astor, in Hong Kong, is putting its own modern twist on the experience
Caroline Webster Schermerhorn Astor—whose son, John Jacob Astor IV, built the first St. Regis hotel in 1904—was well known for many things other than her storied last name, most notably her reign as the doyenne of New York high society, during which she threw many opulent parties. Invitations to her parties were only sent to “Caroline’s 400,” a list of the 400 most influential people in New York at the time.
But a more elusive and sought-after invitation might be extended to some of the guests at the main party—a discreet tap on the shoulder from Mrs. Astor herself signalling that the guest was among the few who could stay behind for one of her infamous midnight suppers.
St. Regis Hotels & Resorts has since made the midnight supper a timeless tradition and an integral element of its brand, along with its iconic butler service, afternoon tea and various iterations of the classic Bloody Mary cocktail, among others.
And with the St. Regis Hong Kong being the newest House of Astor, its midnight suppers showcase how it has evolved to be a contemporary culinary experience while retaining the charm and allure of the original midnight suppers hosted by Caroline Astor.
André Fu, the interior designer behind the St. Regis Hong Kong’s elegant interiors, hosted a midnight supper in May for 50 luminaries, including Queenie Rosita Law, Kamsen Lau, Antonia Li, Jonathan Cheung, Alan Lo and Yenn Wong.
“I am intrigued with the ethos of the midnight supper—the idea to bring together an eclectic mix of people to exchange and celebrate under one roof,” says André. “It captivates the essence of a certain time and place of New York back in 1904 when the original St. Regis was built—it’s an event that embraces the quintessential New York society spirit.”
See also: André Fu Shares His Inspiration Behind The St Regis Hong Kong