Special thanks to Kim Haus for extending this hotel review invitation.
Campbell Street (Lebuh Campbell) is renowned for having several traditional goldsmith shops within a few city blocks. Kim How (金浩珠宝行) was a prominent jeweler here back in the 1940s. Its 5-storey building has been restored and converted into a boutique hotel called Kim Haus.
Kim Haus evokes memories of its glory days through a gold museum. On display are dozens of goldsmith tools; most of them are still in working condition. Through a self-guided tour, one can appreciate the fine art of crafting gold by hand more than half a century ago.
Towards the back of the hotel is a large mural that spans several levels. Meanwhile, the upper floors of the structure have been refurbished as guestrooms. In compliance with local city ordinance, smoking is strictly prohibited in all rooms.
At Kim Haus, most guestrooms are designated as “Lofts”. There are several room sizes to accommodate different numbers of guests. My room is just perfect for 2 persons. It has air-conditioning and an ensuite bathroom. Basic toiletries are provided.
Since Kim Haus is restored from an existing building, the layout of each room varies considerably. For instance, there is a larger room that can fit a king-size bed.
In addition, Kim Haus has special Lofts for parties of 3 people. In each of these rooms, an upper deck above the dressing table provides extra bunk space. I was told that Kim Haus also provides dormitories for guest who are on a limited budget.
Throughout this quaint building are several common areas where guests can mingle and enjoy some fresh air. In addition, a small atrium at the center allows natural sunlight to illuminate the structure’s interior.
Meanwhile, guests are welcome to laze of a hammock that is suspended directly above the reception counter. Prior permission from the staff is advised. For safety reasons, children are prohibited from using the hammock.
The hotel has a café on the ground floor. Also called Kim Haus, the eatery serves Western dishes, burger, pasta and a handful of Asian cooking. In-house guests enjoy 10% discount on all food and beverages except alcoholic drinks.
The restaurant presents a homely ambience through the use of wood and brick elements. Besides al fresco dining, there is also an air-conditioned section further behind. The dim lighting here provides a relaxing atmosphere for casual dining.
Diners who require some privacy may be seated in a former gold vault. The vault is the largest of its kind in Penang. Its solid metal door and thick walls used to secure tons of precious metals.
Breakfast is served from 9:00am to 12:00pm. Signature breakfast dishes here are Florentine and The Full English. Coffee is handy for guests who need an adrenaline boost to start a day.
Kim Haus has an in-house bakery which produces fresh bread (such as rye loaves, bran loaves and low GI loaves) and pastries (such as cakes, croissants and scones) every day. Besides catering the restaurant’s needs, the bakery also sells bread by the loaf.
As for the drinking crowd, Kim Haus serves alcoholic beverages like beers, wines and cocktails. Next to the drinks bar are rustic wooden tables and a beautiful mural.
The sports bar on Level 2 opens at 9:00pm. Open mic music keeps the place lively throughout the night while giving emerging musicians a platform to gain experience.
Strategically located in the heart of George Town, Kim Haus is within walking distance from many tourist attractions and local eateries. Guests can make reservations through the hotel’s website. Kim Haus’ check-in and check-out times are 2:00pm and 12:00pm respectively.
Name: Kim Haus
Address: 9, Lebuh Campbell, 10100 George Town, Pulau Pinang
Contact: 016-330-1515
Business hours: 24 hours
Website: https://www.facebook.com/Kim-Haus-912505328827678
Coordinates: 5.41709 N, 100.33526 E
Directions: Driving along the one-way Campbell Street (Lebuh Campbell), Kim Haus is located on the right between the junctions with Rope Walk (Jalan Pintal Tali) and Carnarvon Street (Lebuh Carnarvon). Limited street parking is available along these roads.
