The Equatorial Hotel was an institution of Malaysian hospitality when it closed in 2012. In 2019, the hotel resurfaced as EQ, with a completely new property, a new concept and brand new facilities but with many familiar touches to keep the spirit of the Equatorial brand fresh and alive for a new generation of travellers.
Many Malaysians have an Equatorial story to tell; a memorable dining experience in Nipah, a celebratory special occasion in Chalet Swiss, or a dim sum family lunch at Golden Phoenix. The Equatorial was a place to meet, a venue for celebration, and a location to feast.
Well, the good news is that EQ retains all of these qualities but with a new contemporary edge, carefully thought-through touches and astute attention to detail.
The overriding quality for EQ is that the same personalised greeting is evident to ensure every guest feels special and that staff are there seemingly to look after every guest's whim.
This Malaysian-owned brand is giving international brands a run for their money and it comes as no surprise to many guests that EQ is rated by some magazines and websites as Kuala Lumpur's finest hotel. Yes, number one; one hotel, one position; number one.
STAY
The rooms feature contemporary flair with an abundance of oak timber, plush fittings and the latest technology such as huge smart televisions, electronic blinds, near floor-to-ceiling windows and, a faultless bathroom featuring a large soaking tub, separate shower and premium toiletries. A complimentary mini bar (sodas, juices and snacks) is replenished daily.
There are 440 rooms in nine room categories with the size being very generous.
Rooms on the southern side of the hotel have Twin Tower views and are the preferred aspect although city views are also most agreeable, especially on the higher floors. There are a few interesting suite categories if your budget extends that far, with the corner suites having excellent views with an abundance of glass.
EAT
Bottega is a themed bar and lounge just beyond the reception counter. Its premium beverages include sparkling Prosecco supplied by Italian wine house, Bottega. It is the venue for afternoon high teas branded as Dolce Vita with excellent savoury and sweet delights served on an innovative butterfly stand.
Sabayon on level 51 offers classic European dégustation menus paired with or without wines. Prices match its stratospheric location with the adjoining Blue, a more affordable option to take in the views, mocktails/cocktails and some tempting bar bites.
Étoile Bistro facing Jalan Perak has a sidewalk section plus an indoor dining precinct. It is especially popular with local office staff for lunches and after-work drinks and snacks. The artwork here, and in other parts of the hotel (sculptures included), is worthy of admiration.
Kampachi has an enviable reputation among those who enjoy premium Japanese dishes while Nipah is the hotel's all-day dining outlet with an extensive selection of cuisines specialising in local Malaysian dishes. The breakfast buffet is comprehensive and will delight all Malaysian diners.
It is inevitable that any new city hotel will have a rooftop bar and EQ doesn't disappoint with its sophisticated nightspot offering uninterrupted views of the Twin Towers. Reserve a table in Blue along the outside veranda, order some snacks and let the KL sky create some sunset magic.
DO
Guests who just want to stay in the confines of the EQ will not be disappointed by the range of recreational pursuits.
Level 29 is the epicentre for swimmers, gym geeks and wellness aficionados. The infinity pool, open from 7am to 9pm, floats off into the city skyline and is lined with loungers beneath shaded shelters.
Underwater music adds to the ambiance while a vitality pool (jacuzzi) is perfect to massage aching muscles after a workout in the adjoining gym. Sanctum wellness retreat, with its tranquil setting, has an extensive therapy menu.
For those seeking a little culture, ask to be directed to all the pieces of art and sculptures in the hotel's public spaces. They have been crafted by talented Malaysian artists and are located at the entrance and in the foyer.
There are some interesting books about Malaysia on the shelves in Nipah and in the hotel's Equator Club (a hotel-in-a-hotel and retreat for travellers seeking privacy for breakfast and evening cocktails and canapés).
GO
EQ is a five-minute walk from Pavilion, a 10-minute walk to the Twin Towers and five minutes from the KL Convention Centre.
Public transport is nearby, with Raja Chulan Monorail Station just minutes away. Bukit Bintang MRT station is a 10-minute walk from the hotel.
The hotel is perfect for shoppers and business travellers who are visiting the Golden Triangle.
Nearby attractions include Menara KL, Bukit Nanas rainforest reserve, Changkat Bukit Bintang, Jalan Alor food street and Aquaria in the basement of the convention centre.
VERDICTS
HIGHS The rooms are very well designed; they are large (the smallest room is 40sqm) and are fitted out with the latest features; and all but a few rooms have bathtubs. EQ is renowned for its food and beverage outlets and these are very appealing. Blue is a stylish bar with amazing views of the Twin Towers. Make a reservation and arrive just before sunset to avoid the crowds while making the most of the vista.
LOWS It really is hard to fault EQ with the only real regret; checking out.
FAST FACTS
EQ
Equatorial Plaza
Jalan Sultan Ismail
50250 Kuala Lumpur
TEL 03-2789-7777
EMAIL info@kul.equatorial.com
WEBSITE www.eqkualalumpur.equatorial.com