Introduction

A stalwart of Taiwanese hospitality since 1990, the Regent Taipei remains a popular destination for travelers seeking a seamless blend of classic grandeur and contemporary "quiet luxury." Upon entering the expansive, marble-clad lobby, guests are immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of timeless sophistication, punctuated by the fluttering notes of a live pianist and the glint of the world-renowned Regent Galleria just below. Celebrated as a favorite sanctuary for international celebrities and heads of state, the hotel distinguishes itself with some of the city's most generous floor plans, an award-winning rooftop heated pool, and the prestigious Tai Pan Club, where 24-hour personalized butler service redefines the executive stay. It is more than just a place to sleep; it is a meticulously curated urban retreat that captures the refined essence of Taipei’s cultural and commercial heart.

The Regent Taipei seamlessly blends classic luxury with a deep respect for its heritage, creating a unique atmosphere for 1st time visitors. It’s also a great use of IHG certificates and points as it often falls under 40,000 IHG points, allowing for a great redemption, as often the rooms are around $250-$350 USD a night.

Location | Regent Taipei

The Regent Taipei serves as a premier gateway to the city’s sophisticated pulse. The hotel is a breezy five-minute stroll from Zhongshan MRT Station (the intersection of the Red and Green lines), making it effortless to reach the iconic Taipei 101 or the historic Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall in minutes. Guests are steps away from the trendy boutiques of Nanjing West Road and the creative energy of Chifeng Street, while the hotel’s own Regent Galleria offers a subterranean sanctuary of haute couture, featuring flagships like Chanel and Louis Vuitton.

The culinary landscape here is equally prestigious, anchored by the hotel’s own Michelin-recommended Silks House, renowned for its exquisite Cantonese craftsmanship and "Xishi" crispy rice soup. For those craving variety, the property houses Robin’s Grill for world-class steaks and Coast, which artfully fuses Thai flavors with sustainable seafood. Venture just outside the lobby and you’ll find yourself in the "Tiaotong" district, a vibrant maze of Japanese izakayas and local eateries, or take a short ten-minute taxi to the legendary Ningxia Night Market for Taipei's most authentic street food experience.

Check-In | Regent Taipei

I arrived at the Regent Taipei around 11AM from the Le Meridien Taipei after running a few errands around Taipei. Upon arrival, the bellboy was on the spot, grabbing my one measly carry-on to check-in, where a lot of guests were in process of checking out. Similar to my experience at Le Meridien Taipei, there were a ton of Mid-Autumn Festival locals and Korean tour groups visiting Taipei, so thus it was more crowded than usual.

A few minutes later, I was at the front desk. The staff here are top-notch and are some of the best in the business. During my check-in, while it was early, they saw that I was IHG Diamond and quickly adjusted the room availability so that I could have my room ahead of time. In addition, the lovely front desk agent also gifted me a welcome gift of some premium dried mangoes, which was a nice gesture. How thoughtful of them! IHG Diamond status granted two important benefits:

Breakfast at the Brassiere for 2 people
Early Check-In

The Regent Taipei is one of the very few hotels that I still know of that use physical metal keys. It’s a harkening back to the timeless days of keys and something that I found to be great, albeit its hefty weight.

Hotel Grounds | Regent Taipei

The Regent Taipei's lobby is a grand and opulent space that sets the tone for the entire hotel experience. As you step into the lobby, you are immediately greeted by an atmosphere of timeless elegance and sophistication. The design is characterized by tasteful marble flooring, intricate chandeliers, and plush seating areas, creating a sense of luxury and refinement.

One of the notable features of the lobby is the Regent Galleria, an upscale shopping arcade located within the hotel. Here, guests and shoppers alike can explore a wealth of luxury stores and boutiques offering a curated selection of high-end fashion, jewelry, cosmetics, and more. Whether you're in the mood for a little retail therapy or simply wish to browse, the Regent Galleria provides a convenient and exclusive shopping experience without having to leave the comfort of the hotel. There a few high-end restaurants as well that one can browse or reserve in advance.

The combination of the lavish lobby and the Regent Galleria's luxury stores enhances the overall guest experience, offering a sense of indulgence and convenience. It's a space where you can unwind, shop for premium goods, and immerse yourself in the world of luxury that The Regent Taipei is renowned for.

Deluxe Room | Regent Taipei

This 45-square-meter (484 sq. ft.) sanctuary feels like a room from the 90s from the moment the door clicks shut. The design is definitely an ode to "quiet luxury"—think creamy neutrals, warm wood accents, and that iconic floor-to-ceiling bay window that frames the Zhongshan skyline like a living piece of art. Whether you're sinking into the legendary Wellspring Bed (it truly feels like sleeping on a cloud) or catching up on emails at the sleek executive desk, the space manages to be both highly functional and deeply restorative. Despite being in one of Taipei’s busiest districts, the room is remarkably silent. The heavy-duty glazing and thick carpeting create a "vault-like" serenity.

While the rooms are impeccably maintained, the tech can feel a bit dated. You won't find iPad room controls or ultra-modern integrated lighting systems here. The master switches are physical buttons—charming to some, but "old school" to others. In addition, depending on which side of the building you are on, you’ll either get the lush, green views of the park or a somewhat drab view of the neighboring office blocks and rooftop HVAC units.

The bathroom is a sprawling, marble-clad temple dedicated to the art of the soak. It’s the kind of space that invites you to lose track of time, featuring a deep-soaking tub that is a godsend after a day of exploring the city’s night markets. With a separate glass-enclosed rainfall shower, plush oversized robes, and premium Diptyque amenities that scent the air with woodsy refinement, it’s the shining hallmark of the Deluxe Room.

Premier Room | Regent Taipei

The Regent Taipei’s premier room (Room 1437), though part of an older establishment, has aged remarkably well, offering a blend of classic charm and contemporary comforts. It may seem a bit archaic compared to its more tech-focused competition in the Xinyi district of Taipei, but don’t let that fool you. This is still one of the very best hotels in Taiwan.

Upon entering my Premier Room at The Regent Taipei, you’re greeted with the bedroom, alongside the workstation and living room. The room was spacious and tastefully appointed, with a soothing color palette and elegant furnishings that created a welcoming ambiance. The large windows offered breathtaking views of Taipei's vibrant cityscape, allowing natural light to flood the room during the day. At the work desk, they supplied a Herman Miller Aeron chair, which is my personal favorite (as I have one at home as well). Outlets are easily within reach and the Wifi was sufficient.

Some minor quirks: the inclusion of a bar area within the bathroom is a bit odd for the placement. Also, the blinds and curtains are manual, but are not the type that closes quickly, so it gets a bit odd during nighttime.

It features a deep-soaking tub and a separate walk-in shower equipped with both a true rainfall head and a handheld wand, all boasting excellent water pressure. You’ll find high-end Diptyque or Wellspring Spa amenities (depending on the floor), plush oversized towels, and a modern TOTO bidet. Thoughtful touches, like an abundance of complimentary bottled water tucked neatly by the vanity and a dedicated mirror lighting system, ensure the space is as functional for morning prep as it is for a midnight soak.

In addition, the bathroom features a separate walk-in closet, a nice addition that adds a touch of practicality and opulence to the room. The closet provides ample space for guests to organize their belongings, making it convenient for both business and leisure travelers, as it’s packed with hangars, bathrobes, bath slippers and even pajamas. However, the age of the rooms clearly shows, and there are evident wear and tears in certain areas of the cabinetry, along with a slight musk due to humidity.

Breakfast at Brassiere | Regent Taipei

Without a doubt, the highlight of my stay at the Regent Taipei was the stunning breakfast buffet at Brasserie.

Guests are treated to an international feast with options like freshly baked pastries, artisanal bread, personalized omelets, and a ton of western selections. For those seeking a taste of Taiwan, local specialties such as steamed dumplings, egg pancakes, turnip cakes and savory porridge are a delightful highlight. Fresh tropical fruits add a burst of color, while health-conscious diners can indulge in organic selections like cereals, yogurt, and fresh fruit juices. Want Japanese? There’s an udon station, salmon and mackerel and more. There’s even a growth of Korean food here, such as made-to-order kimbap and more!

One of the interesting features of the breakfast buffet at The Regent Taipei is its commitment to using organic ingredients. The hotel sources a variety of organic produce, including fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and even some of the grains and cereals. This emphasis on organic offerings aligns with the growing global trend towards healthier and more sustainable dining choices. The hotel has partnered with Green Michelin Star holder Little Tree Food “小小树林” and you can easily find creative acai bowls to curated salad bowls to a series of organic vegan selections.

The ambiance of Brasserie, where the breakfast buffet is served, is a delightful blend of elegance and comfort. The restaurant's décor is characterized by warm lighting, plush seating, and tasteful table settings. Large windows allow ample natural light to filter in, creating a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.

This is one of the very few hotel places that I highly recommend to pay out of pocket. The breakfast buffet at The Regent Taipei is such a culinary journey that caters to diverse tastes and dietary preferences. Its extensive selection, elegant ambiance, and focus on organic offerings make it a standout feature of the hotel's exceptional hospitality. Whether you're a food enthusiast or simply seeking a satisfying start to your day, this buffet is sure to leave a lasting impression on your stay at The Regent Taipei.

Curious Bar | Regent Galleria B2

During my check-in, I was also given a free drink voucher to a hidden speakeasy at the Regent Galleria. This recently opened bar is a hidden bar that’s actually a fantastic place to be at night. It is a bit tricky to find, but once you’re actually at the doorstep, you’re waltzed into an amazing environment. This stylish and intimate bar is renowned for its craft cocktails and extensive wine list. The bartenders are true artisans, and their creative concoctions are a testament to their skill and passion.

Curious Bar is one of the latest creations of 小小樹食, a vegetarian restaurant and holder of the Green Michelin Star. Simply put, they elevate vegetarian food to a point of fine dining, at a bar. You can get more information on it here.

While the welcome drink as a chardonnay (see picture below) I also got the “Under the Full Moon” concoction, which was a fantastic blend of Macallan Sherry Cask 12year, Cocchi Rosa Aperitif Wine and Cacao Liqueur. This is such a delight, and given the maturity of the bar scene in Taipei, this was one of the best cocktails I’ve had in Asia. I also had their french fries with truffle sauce, and man that sauce is incredible!

Honestly, this is such a fantastic speakeasy. I enjoyed sipping on a signature cocktail while taking in the ambiance and those crispy french fries. The Curious Bar offers a relaxing atmosphere that's perfect for winding down after a day of exploration or for starting the evening with a touch of sophistication.

Curated for Class?

My stay at The Regent Taipei was nothing short of exceptional due to the superb staff and the IHG Diamond member status here. The Premier Room provided a luxurious retreat, the breakfast buffet was probably the best I’ve had in Taiwan, and the hotel's rich history added a layer of depth to the experience. The Curious Bar at the Regent Galleria offered the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy expertly crafted cocktails. Beyond the service, the amenities are world-class, featuring the Regent Galleria—a subterranean haute couture playground—and a stunning rooftop heated pool that offers a panoramic escape above the city’s kinetic energy.

However, it’s clear the hotel is aging and it’s showing. While the hotel’s commitment to "quiet luxury" is evident, the aging infrastructure can occasionally peek through the polish. Travelers accustomed to ultra-modern smart hotels might find the physical brass keys a bit cumbersome compared to the seamless tap of an Apple Wallet or a modern key card. Furthermore, the relentless Taipei humidity can sometimes leave a faint, lingering musk in the corridors or carpets—a common battle for historic properties in the subtropics. Yet, for those who value heritage and soul over high-tech gadgets, these quirks are often overshadowed by the hotel’s enduring grace and culinary excellence.

Curated for Class Final Score | 40/50

The Regent Taipei remains an icon in Taipei as a world-class service and culinary prestige, offering a piece of history to its clientele. While its physical keys and humid-prone vintage charm might feel a step or two behind the digital age, the hotel’s hospitality and that amazing breakfast buffet ensures it remains the sophisticated heart of the city.

Ambiance: 8/10

Room: 7.5/10

Food & Beverage: 9/10

Service: 8/10

Does it Feel Special: 7.5/10

Hotel Review: The Regent Taipei