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Explore the rich history and recent transformation of Montien Hotel Surawong Bangkok in this exclusive interview with Khun Montien Tantakit.
In this latest episode of Trends, our host, David Barrett, is in conversation with Khun Montien Tantakit, the distinguished third-generation owner of the iconic Montien Hotel Surawong Bangkok. Filmed in the opulent Montienthip Room, a space frozen in time for half a century, this interview unveils the grace and splendour of a Thai palace nestled in the bustling CBD of Silom, Bangkok.
Since its inception in 1967, the Montien Hotel has been a beacon of Thai hospitality, shaping the nation’s tourism industry for over fifty years. Recently, the hotel underwent a multi-million-dollar refurbishment, a reinvention that effortlessly blends timeless Thai aesthetics with contemporary allure, catering to the discerning needs of modern travellers. Each of its 475 spacious rooms is a testament to this harmonious fusion, adorned with magnificent murals by the renowned artist Paiboon Suwannakudt.
During the interview, Khun Montien tantalizingly describes the culinary delights awaiting guests at the Montien’s Ruenton, the legendary Thai-Chinese restaurant. Following an extensive rebranding and renovation, Ruenton has become the talk of the town under the culinary guidance of Chef Amnuay Aneksuwan, a 20-year veteran of the hotel. It has even earned recognition from Michelin, with its Hainanese Chicken Rice being a beloved signature dish.
In this exclusive conversation, Montien Tantakit unveils the enduring legacy of his family-run hotel, emphasizing their unwavering commitment to exceptional service and hospitality. The Montien Hotel Surawong Bangkok stands as a bridge between tradition and modernity, providing guests with an unparalleled experience that beautifully merges the best of the old with the allure of the new.
But let’s rewind to February 14, 1967, a Valentine’s day etched in history when Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother graced the opening ceremony of Montien Hotel. It marked the beginning of a journey that would see the establishment rise to become one of Thailand’s most cherished institutions, an iconic moment in the country’s hotel industry.
Over the decades, Montien Hotel, with its unique architectural style and rich Thai artistry, welcomed international business travellers, movie stars, rock legends, and an array of notable guests. It was a heady era for Montien Hotel, but as the new century dawned, tastes began to evolve, with Millennials and Generation Z seeking different experiences.
Despite this transition, Montien Hotel retained its charm, history, and unique features. When Montien Tantakit, the third-generation owner, invited a team of hospitality-oriented real estate professionals to breathe new life into the hotel, it was these enduring qualities that captivated their imagination.
The Montien Hotel boasts an enviable location, impeccable service and a rich history. The renovation and restoration, guided by the concept “Revival of the Original,” went beyond the mere refurbishment of rooms and common areas. It incorporated innovative responses to the evolving lifestyles of guests while preserving the hotel’s unique identity, infusing it with a contemporary flair.
Montien Tantakit’s storytelling during the interview reflects a fairytale narrative of Thai hospitality. It traces back to his grandfather, who, over six decades ago, was commissioned by His Late Majesty King Bhumibol to construct Bhubing Palace in Chiang Mai. The palace’s construction and the renovation of several other royal residences were entrusted to the Tantakit family patriarch. This royal palace vision still resonates in the distinctly “Thai” aesthetic of the Montien Hotel.
The hotel’s name, Montien, which means “royal house,” symbolizes a place that is genuinely open to all, where guests feel warmly welcomed and at home.
Montien Tantakit embarked on a quest to preserve the hotel’s artistic heritage while modernizing it. This remarkable story showcases that renovating a commercial building in the heart of Bangkok does not necessitate demolition and reconstruction; rather, it can build upon a foundation of history, reverence for hidden values, and a commitment to preserving what made the place special in the first place.
Through creative design, the revival of invaluable artistic heritage, and contemporary touches that align with current tourism trends, the Montien Hotel has re-emerged as one of the city’s most sought-after lifestyle hotels. It’s a tale of a man who turned a dream into reality, not just for his own generation but for a new generation of discerning travellers seeking a hotel with a unique identity and warmth of a family rather than one managed by a global hotel conglomerate.
The Montien Hotel Surawong Bangkok beckons you to experience its timeless elegance and captivating transformation. And as we conclude this captivating interview, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Khun Montien Tantakit for sharing his insights with us. It’s time for you to visit the Montien Hotel Surawong Bangkok and immerse yourself in a world where tradition meets modernity in perfect harmony.
David Barrett is a MICE Consultant, Marketing Strategist and digital video advocate. Founder of DBC Group, Member of Institute of Place Management (MIMP) his motto is “Everybody has a story to tell. Let me tell yours.”
David is a long-term resident of Bangkok having lived and worked in the Thai capital for more than 32 years. He is recognised in the Thai tourism and hospitality industry for his passion for promoting Thailand, his love of Thai food, and his creative approach to marketing.
64 years young, David is a Brit in Bangkok. Born in St Helier, UK, he returned to the UK and set up home in Cornwall during the COVID pandemic. With business back as usual, David has returned to Thailand. He’s a man on a mission to interview leaders and trend-setters in business, sustainability, the arts and entertainment. You can watch his weekly conversations on Trends YouTube channel.
