The entrance is a narrow climb, literally, twelve steps up from the courtyard. Inside, Sartoria kow-tows to unfussy and timeless elegance, where white cotton table cloths and napkins still rule supreme but bronze lamps hold court. Everything is dramatic in its darkness and minimal in decoration, although the handful of moody black and white photos don’t display Sophia Loren, Ferrari or Dean Martin but rather the technique of dress-making. A couple of busts, one of an unnamed Roman Emperor, the other, a saucy and sozzled moon face advertising a product called ‘Rossi’, add playful decoration, confirming the space is more than a stiff paean to stuffiness. Overall, the entrance is transformative; goodbye England, hello Italy. 

I was running twenty minutes late, so I needed an immediate pick-me-up/calm-me-down. Sartoria’s main menu offers three aperitivos: Peach Bellini, Campari Spitz and, my go-to, a Negroni, which was pretty perfect and did its job impeccably. That said, for more choice, make sure you don’t miss the bar menu as we did. It lists a load of Signature Cocktails, including the evocatively titled Saville Stitch, Weekend in Milano, Il Sarto and Via Brera, all of which take the restaurant’s mythology and run with it.

Between Cicchetti e Pane, Antipasti, Primi Piatti and Secondi, it’s never an easy decision working out which courses to have and how many portions thereof. After a quick QnA session, our waiter advises and comes up with what sounds like a five-a-side football formation. Cichetti e Pani sits on the bench in favour of a two-two-one or a two-one-two. We opt for the latter. 

Antipasti is certainly a tough call with both Insalata di Polpi and Carpaccio di Filetto garnering lengthy discussions, but we eschew both. The Vittello Tonnato (Veal Carpaccio with Tuna and Caper sauce) presents simplicity as elegance. The veal slices are thin and perfectly pink, the tuna mayo is fishy, maybe with some anchovy, but not overpowering, while pickled, coloured cauliflower adds a crunchy texture and capers, a tang. The Crudo Di Tonno is a less pure tuna tartar than some, spiced up and flavoured with dill, tomatoes, Tropea onions and a green oil, but is moreish to the last. 

The Calamarata Alla Pescatora garners immediate murmurs of admiration from both my friend and I. This pasta belongs to the paccheri family and receives its name from squid, which it resembles in its tubelike form. Large enough to hide some of the seafood inside, or like clunky finger jewellery,  there’s a magnificence about this pasta. Its size and al dente chewiness make it feel like the main event and, of course, the succulent mussels, the finely cut, tender red prawns and the lobster bisque type sauce make it a joyous dish. My friend even notes its worthy of her favourite restaurant in Venice.  

I take a glass of Dolcettta d’Alba, Brezza, Piedmont with my Filetto al Pepe Verde. The Aberdeen Angus is sustainably raised and grass-fed and comes medium rare. It’s thick and chunky and is presented in a green pepper sauce full of fresh peppercorns, which burst with herbaceous crispiness. My friend takes a San Vincenzo, Anselmi, Soave with her Tonna Alla Puttanesca. The finger-sized strips of tuna are super rare, super tender, taste like they’ve been thrown in a hot pan and ripped out almost immediately. A reductive and rich tomato sauce with basil leaves, olives and capers renders the dish a romance for my friend. Special mention goes to the Patate Al Forno contorti, super fluffy on the inside, light but super crispy on the outside; an unexpectedly pure potato offering which wipes up the sauce from both Secondi dishes. 

Special mention should also go to Sartoria’s Italian themed playlist, geographically specific but stylistically and chronologically expansive. Expect therefore, anything from sixties Doo Wop to seventies Prog Rock to eighties Synth with everything in between including Mambo, Disco, Spaghetti Western, and House music. If it sounds distracting, it most certainly isn’t; eclectic it may be, exuberant it most certainly is.

Dolci consists of four choices but Tiramisu wins out as it always should and, much like in every Italian Restaurant, design and taste are idiosyncratic in the best way. Served at the table from a deep, seventies-style glass bowl, we share one portion. On closer inspection, it looks like slabs of marble sunk into concrete. It certainly isn’t as viscous as some, is relatively firm in texture and doesn’t fall apart upon first spoonful. Amaretto seems more located in the sponge, which is less soggy than many whilst the cream is thick and fresh. We love it. On our way out, the chef flits by. We have time to congratulate him on his great work, but not to ask if the Tiramisu is a family recipe. Either way, his mother would be very proud. 

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History

The Grade II-listed building operated as the Marlborough Street Magistrates’ Court from the 1800’s and had many a famous name frequent it, including John Lennon, Johnny Rotten, and Oscar Wilde, who stood trial there and Charles Dickens, who worked there as a reporter. It was then converted into a hotel, with careful consideration to maintain many of its original features. The hotel is independently owned and a family-run business.

Location

The hotel is located on Great Marlborough Street, where Mayfair, Soho and the West End meet, making it a great choice for visitors who love the buzz of a bustling city yet want a quiet place to which to retreat.

The world-renowned department store Liberty London is almost directly opposite the iconic Carnaby Street and Oxford Street, just a moment or two walk away, so shoppers will be in their element!

The London Palladium theatre is next door, with other West End theatres within short walking distance, and Oxford Circus station is only 3 minutes’ walk away, offering convenient and easy access to explore the rest of the city.

The day I visited, there was a tube strike, and as it was such a beautiful day, I walked from Kings Cross train station, which took me approx. 40 minutes. I thought the location of this hotel was brilliant!

Arrival and Check-In

I looked up and took the international collection of flags blowing in the breeze as my signal that I’d arrived. Upon entering the narrow corridor that leads to the main reception (on one side and on the other an entrance to Soho Wala) it is evident that this hotel is brimming with original character. The original tiles and dome ceiling depict days of old; I could easily imagine a constable marching a defendant along here. And true to these words, a member of the hotel team confirmed that this was the corridor that led the accused to the waiting room before trial. 

Through the double doors into the main reception area, there is an entirely different vibe.

The space is styled with creative furniture, vibrant artwork, and a collection of curios that pay homage to the historic past of the building and to the Indian roots of the current owners. A smart concierge stands proudly at his desk.

Check-in is an efficient process, with my bag whisked away to my room before I even notice. The reception team strike the perfect balance between professionalism and a friendly disposition, and I’m introduced to the Guest Relations manager, who clearly leads by example and takes me on a tour of the hotel, where I learn more about the original features of the hotel that have been maintained or restored, giving them a modern-day use. You’ll learn more as you read on.

I’m also introduced to the hotel’s GM who is also very friendly  – everyone I meet who works here has a genuine smile on their face and can’t do enough to help attitude.

Rooms & Suites

There are 116 rooms and suites (at the time of writing) ranging from a Classic Twin or Double at 25sqm, Superior Queen at 28sqm, Superior King at 32sqm, Deluxe King at 38sqm with a sofa or Chaise Longue. The Magistrates Suites are 55sqm and are individually designed with a separate living space, Robert Adams fireplace, marble bathroom and flat-screen TV. These are housed in high-ceiling Judge’s chambers within the original part of the building. The Lalique Penthouse Suite is the hotel’s premium accommodation option, named after the Lalique pieces of furniture and art it features. There are two bedrooms within this spacious suite, both with en-suite bathrooms, a living room, dining room and kitchenette.

My Room

I was hosted in a Superior Queen, which was extremely spacious offering ample hanging and storage space. My favourite aspects were the wooden clothes stand and suitcase bench.

Dressing table, workspace, robes, slippers, hairdryer and a good selection of Skin Essentials bathroom amenities were all conveniently on hand. There was a small selection of tea bags with a kettle but no coffee machine or mini-bar. There is a fridge, should you wish to keep your own snacks cool. 

I also received a lovely handwritten welcome note from the team along with some choccies, a bottle of wine and a bowl of fruit.  Décor follows a minimalist colour palette, which combines seal grey wood panelling, and is complemented by bold golden soft furnishings, like the ripple-effect headboard, which adds texture and warmth. This colour palette runs through the carpet and other soft furnishings too.

The bed was superbly comfortable with convenient light controls, a selection of reading lamps and power sockets on each side of the bed.

Facilities

The Courthouse Hotel is a deceptive hive of entertainment treasures. Boasting one of the biggest private cinemas in central London, it seats up to 100 people, and its rich aubergine carpet and suede walls create a dramatic ambience. Each of the luxurious mauve leather seats has armrests and fold-out tables so guests can enjoy a truly relaxing and authentic cinema experience. The cinema hosts regular classic-collection film nights for hotel guests and locals, along with exclusive-use hire options for private functions.

The Lumi Spa is found on the ground floor of the hotel and is the place to go for peace and pampering. Featuring a small pool, sauna, steam room, relaxation area and a variety of treatments too. I didn’t use the spa facilities during my stay; however, the pool did look very inviting!

There is also a very small gym with two treadmills, a cross-trainer, a seated cardio machine, and a weights bench with dumbbells up to 10kg and Rocky Balboa pictures hung on the walls to motivate guests as they work out. Remember to take your own towel and water, as these aren’t provided.

Food and Drink: Bars

The bar on the ground floor embraces the history of the building and is aptly called ‘The Bar’ with prison doors at the entrance. The vibe is cool, and the décor is modern, which complements its stylish drink offering. The refined space boasts some truly unique seating spaces with three former holding cells converted into distinctive private spaces where guests can enjoy a relaxed drink…..the original doors remain with the ‘hatch’ and lavatories still intact – such a fun way to bring the past to life.

The Soho Sky Terrace is, on a sunny day or evening, the hotel’s crowning glory. I was fortunate enough that when I stayed, the sun had made an appearance, so I enjoyed a pre-dinner drink amongst the city’s rooftops. I ordered a Margarita, which was superbly refreshing with a gentle kick, and the bartender had left a small gap in the salted rim so I could sip away without a salt overload… a thoughtful detail. Considering the bar is in Central London, it is unbelievably quiet, with only the sound of Ibiza-style beats softly playing in the background. Sheltered seating spaces, outdoor heaters, blankets and cushions enhance the relaxed Mediterranean vibe.  Vibrant orange trees, table flowers, faux grass and flora (which cleverly disguise the toilets) add colour, fun and personality to the elevated space. A range of wines, cocktails, spirits and light bites are served, and during the summer months, DJ nights and BBQs are frequently hosted here. The space can also be booked for private events.

Food and Drink: Dining

Breakfast is served daily in the ‘Waiting Room’ which is where defendants used to sit before their trial. It does carry an intangible weight which is hard to describe, and you can really imagine the scenes here from years gone by. Breakfast comprises a hot and cold buffet, which sadly I didn’t have time to try out. The team did kindly offer me a takeaway bag, but time wasn’t on my side.

The Silk Room is the private dining restaurant and retains many original features of the classic courtroom, English Oak benches still embossed with legal titles and a stunning vaulted glass ceiling. It’s a unique space which lends itself perfectly to intimate weddings and exclusive use gatherings.

And I’m sure if walls could talk this room would have some fascinating stories to tell. Notable cases (and people) trialled here include Mick Jagger in connection with cannabis possession allegations, Keith Richards, who was fined in 1973 for possession-related offences and unlicensed firearms, and Oscar Wilde’s celebrated Queensberry case started here too.  Photographs of such cases hang on the walls outside the restaurant and reaffirm the building’s position of authority and historic value.

Soho Wala

This is the hotel’s restaurant, which is directly opposite the legendary Carnaby Street and open to non-hotel residents too. Head Chef Rajesh Parmar and his team have built a good reputation for serving delicious and fresh Indian street food.

The menu comprises an excellent choice of small plates and platters ideal for sharing with options including chicken, lamb, prawns, cheese, lentils and side salads so it caters for most dietary requirements. Curries, dishes from the clay oven and a ‘special’ section are the main stars of the menu.

I dined with two others, and the helpful waiter suggested that two or three dishes each should be sufficient. We opted for the Tandoori Sizzler Platter (half Tandoori chicken, tiger prawns and lamb sheikh kebab). This was served on a bed of spicy, sticky onions and peppers, which were just as delicious as the leading meaty characters. The chicken pieces were tender with a pleasant mix of tandoor spices; the prawns were juicy, and the lamb kebabs were delightfully fragrant.

Another winning dish was the Walnut Paneer Tikka served with roasted onions, pomegranate and crushed walnuts. The Paneer was firm, not rubbery, with a slightly smoky flavour that paired perfectly with the Tikka spice and the crunchy texture from the walnuts and pomegranate.

One of the house specials is the Kali Dal with Choor Choor Naan. The dal was so creamy and moreish, and the overnight cooking process really enhanced the smoky, warming flavour. It was served with a Delhi-style street naan bread, which at first glimpse looked a bit like a caramelised cinnamon swirl – for me, this was a standout part of the meal, with a crisp edge and soft centre and a not-sweet but not-salty type of bite – it went down a treat.

The Butter Chicken Curry was very tasty too, with a deep, rich sauce covering tender bite-sized pieces of chicken. We mopped up the sauce with our side of roti, and I could have easily spooned the rest of it like soup had I not been ready to burst! 

We also ordered a side of Par desi raita (yoghurt served with cumin and pomegranate) along with a small plate of Chatpata Corn Chaat, which is steamed corn kernels, finished with lemon, coriander and chilli. These were excellent palate cleansers and brought a zing and freshness to the other deeper spiced dishes we’d chosen. This was more than enough for three of us, and we even left a few small morsels. All the dishes were presented in either steel dishes, wooden boards or colourful plates adding a sense of fun to the sharing dining experience.

As tempting as the desserts were, especially the Gulab jamun cheesecake (dumplings of sweetened milk solids with malai crème) we didn’t have room to squeeze one in – a good excuse to go back!

The drinks menu is not hugely extensive, but it presents enough choice to cover all preferences. We all enjoyed a glass of the white wine from Argentina.

Décor is colourful and playful with dark walls and ambient lighting, contrasting bold chairs and Indian inspired artwork on the walls add pops of colour. The overhead lights are a mix of various bird-cage style shades, and the table lamp light is constantly but seamlessly moving through a spectrum of colours – another playful design aspect. Funky Indian music plays in the background, helping to transport diners to the streets of Delhi.

I thoroughly enjoyed my meal here, and it exceeded expectations.

Final Thoughts

The location of the hotel, along with its treasure of a rooftop bar and interesting history, really adds a unique element to it. It’s an ideal base from which to explore the city and come back to a comfortable place to rest your head.

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Not far from Buckingham Palace, a stone’s throw from Victoria Station, situated on the corner of Ebury Street and Lower Belgrave Street, Uni is refreshingly located in a largely residential area. With its fresh and tidy white exterior contrasted by a black awning, some shrubbery marking its border, and a handful of tables placed optimistically on the pavement (in a dreary and cold mid-March), the outside could easily be mistaken for a smart neighbourhood French bistro or Italian trattoria. 

Inside, a bronze plaque boldly announces the restaurant’s name, making sure you know exactly where you are, but if you don’t know where you’re going, upstairs and downstairs are options. I head downstairs, where I’m unexpectedly transported to what feels like a 1920s-type cruise liner. Five oceanic coloured, curved booths fit into a large right angle. Each has a round marble-topped table and what could be windows looking starboard but are, in fact, mirrors. Below them, even more unexpectedly, two private dining rooms are set within historic caves, practically hidden away and rendered invisible with dark curtains. 

Upstairs, the first thing to catch any diner’s eye is the enticing golden glow of the equivalent of a wine cellar for sake; the first visual sign that Uni is, indeed, a Japanese restaurant. If there was any doubt, the sushi counter around the corner confirms it. Topped and bottomed by slick, slatted wood and bronze railings, six seats stand in front of six red lanterns in front of three hard-working chefs.

The space stretches to the right with more slats and golden wallpaper emblazoned with red flowers and white blossoms. A mirrored wall at one end offers the illusion of an area larger than the reality and we find ourselves seated at a table which should be looking out of a window but is surrounded on three edges by black velvet drapery. Uni serves forty-seven covers and definitely makes the most of its space, which is intimate and cosy.

Cocktail menu offers both classics and Japanese twists on classics, so expect Sakura Sour, Geisha, Raichi Collins to sit alongside Mojitos, Margaritas and Martinis. Usually, I aim for the restaurant’s more specific offerings but my friend utters the words ‘Espresso Martini’ almost before we’ve opened the menu and I can’t shake it out of my head. My friend defects to a Lychee Martini, which is, happily, less sweet than many served in the capital, whilst my Espresso is thick and cool and served with three coffee beans. 

The menu includes several subsections, including Nigiri, Rolls, Sashimi, Uni lux,  Izakaya style, Salads, Tacos and even the Latin American Parilla and an Omakase option. A handful of different Sea urchin options include Risotto with Parmesan and chives, and an extravagant Sea urchin with caviar gunkan. We keep proceedings relatively simple and start with a handful of baby corn cobs and an Indian inspired Fatty tuna Pani Puri. The former comes with an appealing Tajin wasabi mayonnaise, which conveys the piquancy and flavour of the root vegetable but none of its brutal kick. The menu describes the latter as ‘make your own’, so that’s what we do. There are five small crispy baskets in which to add not only the exemplary tuna but a smoky and spicy paste, barbecued corn niblets and a mojo verde type dip. 

We cleanse our palate with a bold but refreshing Wasabi Caesar salad. It’s light and crispy and again, the wasabi doesn’t overpower. The truffle gnocchis are warming, the pecans caramelised and sweet and the radish slices zesty.

The sushi comes both as nigiri and maki. The seared Tuna nigiri disintegrates impressively, the Salmon is spruced up with a small dollop of cucumber paste, which almost overpowers the salmon and the Yellowtail is lightly basted in some kind of aniseed derivative for an unusual but winning nigiri. 

Buzzing from my Espresso Martini, I return to my original intention of trying something more in line with Uni’s aesthetic. ‘Sakura’ is Japanese for ‘cherry blossom’, so I opt for a Sakura Sour, which veers towards a pink colour, is frothy on top and decorated by a purple and yellow petal. Gin-based and with cherry blossom liquor, it’s light and refreshing and rather blissful, a liquid version of a bunch of pear drops. 

We share Chilean Sea Bass which is covered in a Miso and basil paste. Pad choi, chimichurri sauce in a wooden spoon and Gohan (white) rice sprinkled with furikake accompany. There’s no Black Cod on the menu so, chunky, tender and slick, the sea bass is undoubtedly a worthy competitor to Nobu’s sublime signature offering.

For dessert, the Mochi’s look tempting, but we finish with an extravagant off-piste option worthy of any of London’s finest patisseries. Layered with flavours and textures, green pistachio sponge is divided by a yellow Yuzu jelly and a creamy top. Striations of liquid chocolate decorate, and an egg-shaped, violet coloured ice cream vies for attention opposite.

Uni likes to consider itself a neighbourhood restaurant, but even if you don’t live in Belgravia, it’s definitely worth a visit. 

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The Six Senses brand, built on commitment, serves as a changemaker and has been creating meaningful experiences for luxury travellers for three decades. The brand is currently undergoing a period of considered and purposeful growth with the aim of replicating Six Senses’ DNA across various locations and settings. From tranquil island getaways and healing retreats to mountain escapes and now city breaks, Six Senses invites guests to recalibrate and reconnect with its signature emotional hospitality approach grounded in wellness, sustainability, and crafted experiences.

Each hotel features a unique touch that reflects the brand’s mission to provide an unconventional luxury experience that stands alone where wellness, sustainability and bespoke hospitality meet. Six Senses spas offer a blend of ancient wisdom infused with modern science and pioneer a journey to understand just what it means to be mentally, physically, spiritually and emotionally well.

The new Six Senses London occupies a full quarter of The Whiteley mixed-use development and is conveniently located close to Hyde Park and Notting Hill. The hotel comprises 109 elegantly appointed guestrooms and suites which have been designed to harmonise with the building’s Art Deco heritage. Many of these rooms feature private terraces, while the hotel boasts a green roof with seasonal perennial planting to attract pollinators and help weave nature into the city’s fabric.

There are also 14 Six Senses-branded residences at The Whiteley, with each environment crafted to invigorate the senses and spaces created by AvroKO in collaboration with EPR Architects. The hotel brings Whiteley’s Kitchen, Bar and Café to London, with hopes of becoming a neighbourhood staple, where contemporary British fare is served and celebrated. The Six Senses London spa is a 2,300-square-metre wellness facility which captures the energies of the surrounding city and creates a balance between stillness and movement in a restorative environment. The spa is also home to London’s first magnesium pool, a 20-metre indoor swimming pool, and cryotherapy, flotation, and recovery spaces. Guests are welcome to venture into the Alchemy Bar, longevity clinic, fitness centre, and the state-of-the-art Biohack Recovery Lounge, dedicated to performance and longevity. The hotel introduces the new private members concept, Six Senses Place, where reconnection, community, and high-tech wellness are encouraged in a thoughtfully designed space.

The Whiteley itself is a historic address which occupies an entire city block, a mere stone’s throw from Hyde Park. Poised to become the capital’s greatest residential and hospitality address, The Whiteley has been completely reimagined and contains a meticulously curated selection of amenities over 60,000 square feet. There are 19 commercial tenants within the building, which forms part of the wider £3bn regeneration of Queensway. The aim of the transformation is to create a world-class district for all types of activities to make city life more enjoyable. The Whiteley perfectly represents this joint venture of epic scale and proportion while the opening of Six Senses London reflects deep collaboration and shared commitment between IHG, CC Land Holdings Ltd., Valouran and Gruppo Statuto and contributes to IHG’s leading Luxury & Lifestyle portfolio. IHG acquired the Six Senses brand in 2019 and has since thoughtfully sought opportunities to enhance the brand’s presence across the globe.

There are now 27 hotels and resorts open across 20 countries, with a further 39 properties in the development pipeline, including a collection of private residences. Each Six Senses location is selected for its natural impact and ability to stir something within its guests and reawaken the senses to give travel meaning and purpose.

Read our insights article here and explore our collection of luxury hotels in London

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Orion by Alex Webb exudes an immediate, casual elegance. It’s much larger than it appears from the outside and stretches deep within. Next to the bar on the left is an iced seafood counter upon which catches of the day preen like beautiful momento mori. Beyond is a marble-topped chef’s table for six and then the open-plan kitchen which is only partially visible from our table. Dark sea green tiles intersperse walls and from one, the area delineated for private parties, hanging contemporary art proclaims ‘The World’s Your Oyster’. Greenery softens various edges while white table cloths match the ash floor. 

Our excellent waiter for the night, Will, who joined the restaurant before it opened, as it was being built, even, offers us menus and holds up a small blackboard with the day’s specials. Fish is sourced from the tips of Scotland to the outliers of Cornwall; Webb has many a fisherman’s number, knows most of their boat names and wheels and deals to bring in what he does. Sometimes portions come in only five or six so grab them while you can. Hake, Dover Sole and Chalk Stream Trout are on offer today. 

My friend’s Smoked Old Fashioned causes him to groan as if he’s been pleasurably punched. It’s certainly a heady and deeply satisfying cocktail and demands to be consumed in slow, appreciative sips. I opt for the most contrary option. The small, dry oyster shell on its rim offers a literal visual interpretation of the Oyster Shell Martini, but it’s also decorated with four green onion oil spots. My friend says it’s like drinking a bag of crisps (onion without the cheese, presumably), whereas the seawater is the first flavour I notice. So basically, it’s a seawater and onion vodka martini? Well…yes; it sounds ghastly like it should be illegal, but against all odds, it is a revelation; a sublimity that fuses ingredients to form a whole far greater than the sum of its parts.

Partially inspired by my martini’s name, we each order a Carlingford oyster as an hors d’oeuvre. The ritual of adding lemon, shallot vinegar and tabasco is always part of the fun. The oysters are plump and meaty and super clean. And, maybe, they taste a little like a Vodka Martini!?

Alex’s Signature Lobster & Prawn Toast isn’t called that for nothing; it was one of his standout dishes on Master Chef, apparently. And it’s easy to understand why. Proper sized bread slices with a fluffy, light, irresistible commingling of lobster with the more traditional prawn. Covered in black sesame seeds, it possesses a dramatic, volcanic drama and also comes with a sweet carrot purée. The toast is chopped in half so it’s very easy to share but frankly it’s one I’d happily keep all to myself. Will also recommends the Seabass Crudo, which comes in six 50 pence-sized chunks, each wrapped over itself. A buttermilk sauce with dil onion is poured at the table for a creamy and unusual but effective addition to what often comes with citrus. Small grapefruit chunks do add zest and, not mentioned on the menu, a bite-sized Seabass tartar accompanies. Wrapped in a thin, crispy wrapping, it possesses an appealing purity and could well be the posher, if more emaciated, cousin to a spring roll.

Will recommends a Camille & Laurent Schaller Chablis, which is crisp, dry and smooth and works perfectly with our shared John Dory. To put it bluntly, John Dory is not a looker. Served in its murky underwater skin and unboned, therefore, it looks scary, beastly, like a creature from a black lagoon. We don’t fancy our chances at skinning or boning without doing serious damage to ourselves or indeed, our meal, so we ask the kitchen to do it. Minutes later, a metamorphosis has occurred; the beast has become a beauty. Four large filets of white meat luxuriate in a champagne sauce peppered with orange and black trout roe. The meat is moist and delicate and has a pleasant char-grilled twang. Accompanying is another Webb signature, his Slow Cooked Butter Thyme Potatoes with Parmesan. The plural is misleading and we were expecting new potatoes but this single oblong offering bears more than a passing resemblance to a chunky fish finger. Crispy on the outside, light and fluffy within, it’s topped with parmesan shavings, is eminently moreish and any self-respecting diner will want to order more than one. 

I’m suddenly anxious as, out of the corner of my eye, I think I see a flame burning towards us. Turns out it’s a large swathe of gold leaf catching the light. And this, it turns out, is edible decoration for Alex’s Twix. ‘Bloody hell! The chocolate’s hard!’ My friend proclaims as he almost breaks the plate trying to cut the thing into mouth-sized portions. The shortbread is made of tonka beans, and we end up eating it with our fingers. The dish exudes childhood dreams, compounded as it is with ice cream sitting in a mound of what could be broken cornflakes. My Brown Butter Martini has nothing childlike about it at all, of course, but it’s a knock-out compliment to dessert and another unique martini. Butter is burnt for a softer caramel flavour and mixed into the top’s semi-solid froth for what is a delirious, end-of-night tipple. 

We could easily stay for another, but as the last diners, we don’t want to overstay our welcome. Back at reception, Webb offers his good-byes to the penultimate guests. After they leave, we have a lively chat with the tired but still bright and bubbly man and his charming husband. We discuss the arrival of the fresh garlic season, the couple’s plans to move from Acton to be much closer to the restaurant, the soon-to-go-live Chef’s Table and the fact that half the Wimbledon tennis players will undoubtedly drop in during the Championships. Only recently opened, Orion by Alex Webb is sure to become a firm favourite with international tennis players and all else who visit. Book now to avoid disappointment! 

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Background & Concept

Following a two-year closure and complete restoration, the property reopened in spring 2025 as the Montcalm Mayfair, the flagship property within the Montcalm Hotels portfolio it joins a collection of luxury properties which includes the Montcalm Brewery, a historic brewery reimagined as a hotel, to the Montcalm Royal London House, a former Royal Mail headquarters in the City, and the ultra contemporary Montcalm East in Shoreditch. The hotel is also part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, a global portfolio spanning 240 properties across 40 countries, all chosen for their design, originality, and character.

Sitting centrally on a Georgian horseshoe crescent, from its exterior, you wouldn’t immediately notice any architectural changes. Award-winning architects Holland Harvey have restored and enhanced the Georgian Grade II-listed façade, which was damaged in WWII and rebuilt in the 1970s, preserving its historical integrity and reimagining its Georgian features with floor-to-ceiling windows, adding an extension and incorporating three signature suites complete with their own private entrance to the property.

As you walk into the lobby, your immediate reaction, as mine was will likely be to stop for a moment to take it all in. There is an instant WOW factor within the space. Designed by Studio Est, the light-filled public area is sophisticated, emulating the warmth of a living room, with rich earthy tones in organic and materials ranging from oak to marble and brass. One of my favourite spots in the hotel was the lounge area, a cosy residential space within a public lobby. As I sat there, my mind wandered back to childhood memories growing up with a coal fire in the lounge – here the naked flame has been reimagined using a marble backlit onyx fireplace, gently flickering and dancing away.

Running through every corner of the hotel is ‘The Mark of The Garden’, a creative philosophy highlighting that the area was both once an ancient forest and also the Georgian era’s tradition of gardens as places of artistic expression. Drawing inspiration from Constance Spry, the pioneering floral designer of the era.

This concept manifests through hotel fragrances in public areas, woodland soundscapes in the spa, floral teas and nature-inspired music, along with bespoke flower-inspired cakes. The colour scheme follows the seasons from spring greens, autumn russets and deep winter blues, along with hidden floral details in textiles and art.

Within the lobby brasserie, make sure to look up to the ceiling mural, hand-painted by Will Foster, depicting an ethereal garden dancing across the ceiling, and the three marble arches in the bar are a subtle nod to London’s iconic nearby March Arch.

Location

Technically closer to Marble Arch than Mayfair, this location is another positive attribute for the hotel. Marylebone Village, Portman Square, Selfridge’s, and Oxford Street are all moments away on foot in one direction and Hyde Park and onto Knightsbridge in the other. Bond Street and Marble Arch Underground stations are within easy connecting you with the rest of London, and the hotel’s concierge team can help with any transfers or wider exploration of the capital.

Rooms & Suites

The 150 guest rooms range from Superior through to Premium, along with 27 one-bedroom suites and three signature two-bedroom suites. Guest spaces are finished in a palette of beige, mushroom and taupe, with pops of terracotta and moss green in the furnishings, rugs and chairs. Soft curves feature throughout, running from headboards through to mirrors, giving each room a residential format. In-room touches include Frette bed linens, Bamford Geranium bathroom amenities, and furniture crafted from naturally felled wood and rattan accessories from Kalinko, a social enterprise working with over 250 artisans in Myanmar.

My Suite During My Stay

During my stay, I was hosted in a Marquis Suite, a beautiful room that maximises its space. Above the bed hangs a dark botanical artwork, and to the right of the bed is a framed sleep poem; Two Creative Writing MFA students from Goldsmiths were commissioned to pen sleep poems for each guest room, which have been transformed into bedside artworks with illustrations by Petra Börner. A Juliet balcony maximises both the view out to the street and natural light, and across from the bed, a framed flatscreen TV with your name on it to welcome you, a small chez lounge sofa and a table and chairs.

Calacatta marble tiling runs thoughout the bathroom, with the shower area laid in a herringbone pattern and larger format slabs on the walls and floor, complemented by brass fixtures and fittings, and I really enjoyed using the Bamford amenities.

Bespoke floral-inspired welcome cakes are made by Luminary Bakery, a social enterprise which empowers women facing adversity, and little finishing touches go above and beyond, like the hand-pressed seal on my welcome letter.

A dressing/workspace features a mini bar with paid snacks and drinks avaliabile, along with a Nespresso machine, and I love the small bottles of fresh milk chilling away for teas and coffees.

Signature Suites

I also previewed the hotel’s three signature suites, the Botanical, the Drawing Room and the Parlour. Each has its own personality, the Botanical is a living gallery composed around an exclusive art takeover by Camille Rousseau, the drawing room takes inspiration from London Spring with golden light and deep green tones, while the parlour draws on autumn’s harvest, finished in deep hues, golden finishes, and handoven fabrics. Each is interconnected via its own foyer, which can be accessed both via the hotel and a private entrance, ideal for families or groups who want a self-contained base while staying in London.

The Library

Signature suite guests can also access The Library on the top floor, a calming space curated with botanical books, along with a fine tea and seasonal refreshment bar.

Restaurant

Dinner at Lilli by Akira Back is, without doubt, where I’ve enjoyed one of my favourite meals in London to date. The room itself draws you in, an intimate space of deep greens, with burnished brass table lamps providing intimate lighting that feels closer to a member’s club or cocktail bar. Chef Akira Back’s menu celebrates his Korean heritage and Japanese artistry; every dish was a conversation point, as each one was served, the bar was raised higher. Designed for sharing, we opted for Chef’s signature Tuna Carpaccio presented like a pizza and dressed with jalapeno, along with wagyu tacos, which arrived as a little trio, both playful and punchy. The black Miso cod, another signature dish, melted in the mouth and was packed with savoury flavour through its miso glaze. While the beef wellington was a feast for the eyes and taste buds, and the popcorn shrimp was something I would never have picked, but it was recommended to me, and it was incredible. And to finish, the chocolate tart showed off the kitchen’s technical ability and attention to detail. This is contemporary fine dining at its most inspirational.

Breakfast

After a thoroughly good sleep, I went down for breakfast, which is served in the lobby brasserie. The continental offering is generous, with a range of cold cuts, cheese, pastries and croissants along with fruits and cereals. The à la carte menu ranges from a full English to a vegan alternative, eggs Benedict in three formats, along with kimchi shakshuka, pakcakes and oatmeal. I can eat spicy food at any time of day and the Masala Omlette caught my eye. It was served freshly cooked with vivid colour and flavour, complete with a chilli salsa to take things up a spice notch further.

Spa & Wellness

The hotel has so many wonderful aspects and another is its subterranean wellness offering YĀTRĀ a Sanskrit word for ‘journey’. The space is vast, with four treatment rooms, including a double, a dedicated space for yoga, an infrared and traditional wood sauna, and a hydropull and jacuzzi, along with a gym.

Spa treatments include their Ojas Rejuvenation Ritual and Chakra Body Realign Ritual, both using personalised dosha oils; the Savasana Muscle Warming Potli Massage; Kansa Marma Point massage and facials; and the Shakti Divine Nurturing Body Therapy. Products are developed in collaboration with QMS Medicosmetics and Mauli Rituals. Post treatment, you are offered a tea ritual in partnership with Camellia’s Tea House.

Final Thoughts

The Moncalm Mayfair delivers something genuinely special, and the team should be very proud of it. In a city filled with luxury accommodation options, this is without doubt one of the finest.

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As Pan Pacific’s European outpost, the hotel forms the centrepiece of One Bishopsgate Plaza, an ambitious multi-use development bridging hospitality, residential, and leisure together, and is the first mixed-use skyscraper in the area. The bronze-clad tower stands at 43 stories high, with the hotel occupying the lower floors and sits in deliberate contrast to the 144-year-old Devonshire House, which too was restored as part of the development. Pan Pacific’s DNA has always felt most at home among urban skylines, carving out a reputation for creating sanctuaries within the world’s more kinetic financial hubs, so there is no better fit for its London offering than in the Square Mile.

Location

Being just a two-minute walk from Liverpool Street Station, you have the Underground and Overground converging on your doorstep, along with the Elizabeth Line, which takes you to Heathrow in around 40 minutes and mainline trains connecting you to Stansted Airport, East Anglia and Cambridge.

The area offers a wide range of cultural experiences. Head east and explore the creative energy of Shoreditch and Spitalfields. Walk west to the brutalist Barbican Centre (the conservatory is well worth visiting I love it, and the second biggest in London) or head south to the Tower of London and Tower Bridge. The iconic skyline of the City of London wraps all around the hotel, keep your eye out for the Gherkin, the Walkie Talkier and the Cheesegrater, reminders that you are in the heart of London’s financial powerhouse.

Lobby

Walking into reception, it feels less like a traditional hotel lobby and more like a private residence, thanks to New York design firm Yabu Pushelberg, which designed all communal areas and guest rooms, marrying the hotel’s dual influences of British refinement with the botanical richness of Singapore’s tropical landscape.

Reception lies immediately to the left, and its organically shaped desk sits in contrast to a contemporary take on British linear plaid panelling. Behind it, a custom mural by Moss & Lam offers a playful take on traditional 18th-century wallcoverings, showing an Asian parrot perched on top of a British greyhound. Further murals flow throughout the hotel, depicting Southeast Asian flora and fauna and positioning spaces as verdant oasis amidst the city’s relentless energy. Beyond reception, Ginger Lily Lounge reinforces this residential format with paintings balancing on art ledges, bookshelves and a dual-sided fireplace, offering a relaxing place to sit and have a coffee, which I did before check-in.

Across from reception, a sculptural timber staircase sweeps upward, taking you to Straits Kitchen on the first floor. Behind that, a corridor guides you to the guestroom lifts. En route, I noticed the small groupings of artwork, further reinforcing that sense of home feeling.

Rooms & Suites

The property offers 237 rooms, including 42 suites across multiple categories, each designed to evoke the tranquillity of English and Asian gardens, through layered colour and tactile materials. All rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, Nespresso machine, a Dyson hairdryer, and Jo Loves bathroom products.

Deluxe Rooms at (37sqm) embody a familiar English style with calming neutral tones and marble bathrooms. For families and friends, their Deluxe Double Double (41sqm) accomodates up to four guests across two queen-sized beds. Premier Rooms (39-44sqm) include pasel touches, while Executive Rooms are finished in natural wood finishes and have a defined living area.

At the suite level, which are each individually named and designed with individual character. The collection ranges from the Devonshire Suite (52-57sqm), which I stayed in, The Wallbrook Suite 52-57sqm), through to the Bishopsgate Suite (63sqm) up to the very generously sized Pan Pacific Two Bedroom suite, which comes in at 154sqmthe Bishopsgate Two Bedroom Suite (104sqm), and at the apex, the Pan Pacific Suite (119sqm) and its two-bedroom sibling (154sqm). Each is united in its residential format with separate sleeping and living areas, making them more like mini apartments than hotel rooms.

My Suite During My Stay

During my stay, I was hosted in the Devonshire Suite on the nineteenth floor. Entry is via a timber-clad hallway, with a clever little key holder standing on the left-hand side beside a full-length mirror. To the right, the amenities station is tucked into the cabinetry, stocked with premium drinks and spirits, a Nespresso machine, alongside a traditional Asian teapot and cups.

Above the minibar, a ledge displays a selection of titles: “London Hidden Interiors,” “The Gardener’s Garden,” and “A London Year.” A brass hare sculpture stands at attention, and a box (which I haven’t seen before in a hotel bedroom) offers Apple and Android charging cable in case you forget.

Beyond the entrance hall, the suite opens into a corner lounge with a curved velvet sofa. To one side, a focal point Moss & Lam botanical mural of Southeast Asian flora and fauna sits and to the other, an organic form sculptural floor lamp. At the end of the room, a playful touch with a vintage-style record player sits perched on a wood-grain cabinet and across from the sofa, a flatscreen TV sits against the panelling.

Through an adjoining doorway into the bedroom, a king-size bed and above the headboard, a backlit artwork depicts oak branches and persimmons, rendered in muted watercolour tones. One of four arboreal themes (oak, elder, elm and maple), species English in origin and brought to life using Asian brushstrokes.

Walls curve gently throughout, and an angular corner window wraps around the space. A rather beautiful, sleek, curved desk is positioned by the window, which provided me with an inspiring workspace as I caught up on some emails. And across from the bed, a second flatscreen TV.

Between the bathroom and bedroom is a large dressing area and wardrobe space with an illuminated, organically shaped mirror that sits above a pull-out drawer keeping safe a Dyson hairdryer and attachments.

Through to the bathroom which is split into three areas, with a separate WC sits behind its door, while the main vanity area occupies the central space, and a dedicated mosaic-tiled wet room houses a tub and separate rainfall shower. Also a mention about the Jo Loves amenities, which are a joy to use, and the neatly presented amenities box, which contains all those things you might forget – hairbrush, shaving kit, dental kit, shower cap and comb.

Being on the 19th floor gives you a bird’s-eye view of the city below. By daylight, Liverpool Street Station’s ornate Victorian facade offers a reminder of London’s architectural heritage, as it sits sandwiched between modern, sleek glass buildings. As day surrenders to evening the view takes on a theatrical glow as the surrounding office buildings become illuminated in light.

Straits Kitchen

On the first floor Straits Kitchen offers an all-day dining experience celebrating Pan Pacific’s roots. Taking its name from the Straits of Malacca, a historic maritime route long-connecting Asia’s cuisines and flavours. Here, the residential feel continues with oversized pendant lights hanging at varying lengths, while tall planters and botanical fabrics on upholstered seating continue the garden theme and a curved banquette creates a distinct seating area.

That evening, we opted for the five-place experience menu. The meal started with a Chilled Native Scallop dressed with soy, chilli, and red curry crisp. This was followed by Jimmy Butler’s Pork Skewer with char siu glaze and plum ketchup, the caramelised meat rich and sticky. The Cornish Crab Pappardelle arrived next, delicate ribbons of fresh pasta cloaked in emulsion with green apple and caviar. For mains, the Hereford Beef Short Rib was slow-cooked and served with sweet soy and stout jus, and finished with vibrant hibiscus onion. The finale, a bitsized Ice-Cream Sandwich layered with vanilla, soy, and sesame caramel centre.

Breakfast

After a very relaxing evening and good sleep, I make my way down to breakfast, which is also served in Straits Kitchen and as polished as its dinner service. Once seated, the experience begins with an invitation to the extensive continental buffet room. Here you will find an impressive spread of fresh fruits, charcuterie, cheeses, cereals, jams and preserves and bakery items to start things off.

Back at my table, I ordered an Americano coffee, which arrived in a delicate, floral-patterned porcelain, along with a Field of Green pressed juice. Hot food items are selected from the à la carte menu, which offers a range of familiar favourites like the Full English Breakfast, Porridge, and French Toast, with subtle Southeast Asian influences like their Prawn and Port Dumpling Wonton Soup. I opted for my usual hotel indulgence of Eggs Benedict, which arrived with a generous helping of hollandaise and perfectly poached eggs that broke open at the first touch of my fork.

Ginger Lily Lounge

Time didn’t allow, but Ginger Lily Lounge offers a carefully curated cocktail menu which showcases an eclectic selection of signature classics as well as innovative serves inspired by Singaporean flavours and culture, elevated with modern flair and techniques.

SENSORY Spa & Wellbeing

If their first floor feeds the stomach, the fourth floor, SENSORY Spa feeds the soul. Here, an entire level has been dedicated to holistic health and perhaps the most comprehensive spa in the area. Its centrepiece is undoubtably its infinity pool, which reveals itself gradually, first glimpsed as you walk from the changing rooms and then in full as you descend the stairs to the pool deck. Suspended above the cityscape below, the water seems to almost bleed off the glass, while underwater lighting bathes the room in soft diffused glow. As I swam, I couldn’t help but take on a meditative state, and even on that rainy London day, the moment felt ethereal.

As most of my reviews highlight, my good fitness intentions rarely survive beyond check-in, but for those with a more disciplined routine, the gym is fitted with the latest Technogym equipment. In each changing room, you will find a sauna and steam room, and their spa treatments infuse Western and South East Asian traditions and practices, and feature everything from one-of-a-kind 24-hour immersive experiences such as ‘flight mode recovery’, ‘sleep programme’ and ‘human performance’ to ‘seasonal ritual’ and pregnancy treatments as well as Chinese medicine.

Pet-Friendly Policy

As someone who has travelled extensively with cats (read here), I’ve often found that ‘pet-friendly’ policies tend to be a euphemism for ‘dog-friendly’. However, Pan Pacific London genuinely welcomes both species. The check-in process includes a bespoke ‘Paws Pack’, high-spec pet beds and bowls and a Pet Concierge service that covers everything from kitten or puppy yoga, grooming sessions at the nearby Shoreditch Dog House, even dog reiki healing for more zen-seeking companions.

Final Thoughts

Pan Pacific London succeeds in creating its own distinct identity in a city packed with luxury hotels. Rather than competing on heritage or grandeur, it offers something altogether more contemporary and utterly luxurious. This property is included in our guide to the best luxury hotels in London.

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A rare oasis of calm in Mayfair, design is unfussy, riding somewhere between art deco, elegant, minimalistic and naked. Colouring is oceanic, mixing grey, turquoise and green depending on where you look and at what angle. Lighting is bright, tablecloths are white, and a grey carpet adds a soft and bouncy touch to proceedings. Some wall based tables double as makeshift booths with heavy hanging curtains for extra privacy. We start with house champagne and are almost immediately presented with five slices of bread and three types of fluffy, mousse-like butter. It feels like an unofficial test, a mix and match quandary and we hope no one’s eavesdropping. Does the olive sourdough work best with onion or mushroom butter? Should we even contemplate tomato butter on the sundried tomato focaccia? What about the seeded flatbread? Surely, no butter at all? 

It’s a fun way to kick the taste buds into action and the creative juices into analytical mode, both of which are further tested and treated with some spectacular starters, the descriptions of which do not do them justice. The Seared Orkney Isles Hand-Dived Scallops demand visual investigation before tasting. The three scallops are partially hidden with nduja sausage and parsley and interrupted by two cubes of pork belly. There’s a mussel here, a mussel there, and some funky Romanesco broccoli, the lively pale green colouring of which lifts the plate’s otherwise more dour colouring. Tasting contradicts already high expectations with the unexpected; nduja provides the scallops with a meatier prompt whilst a coconut and lemongrass flavour, erring towards tom yum soup, provides the meat with a a spicier but refreshing prompt. It’s a taste bud ping pong finessed to perfection.

The Cromer Crab resembles a shimmering eccentric underwater broach. The brown crab is whipped to smithereens, smooth as silk but is mainly hidden by jellified haddock consommé. The colour palate is lifted by green leaves and bright red apple blossom and its consumption seems to go on for ever, is pure decadence.  

Mains mainly include grilled surf and turf with lobster and monkfish as well as wagyu and aged rib-eye. Gianni, our waiter, advised us on starters so we return to him and there’s absolutely no hesitation. The Roast Saddle of Venison for two is pure gastronomic theatre. Served on a trolley, cut at the table, it takes three to deliver to our plates. It’s super dark on the outside and perfectly crimson in its middle.

Swimming in red wine and juniper berry jus on one side of the plate, a phalanx of winter root vegetables curve around the opposite. At times it’s a guessing game with outlandish and exotic stabs – plum, baby carrots, beetroot of different colours, maybe a radish or something close to pickled watermelon, dollops of carrot and aniseed purée. For extra idiosyncrasy and a personal touch, small pots of creamed girolle mushrooms, hazelnut powder and berry sauce tempt. As do, two semmelknödel – bread dumplings. With so much else to consider the Venison could become secondary but is so perfect that it refocuses the wandering attention on what is an opulent and supremely varied dish, simultaneously rustic and old-fashioned in its roots but urban and veering towards daring in its contemporaneity.  

Although other members of staff engage with and serve us, Gianni is our constant. He seems to be a man who loves his job and one possessed of many talents. Raconteur, historian, adviser, Maitre D’, sommelier, even chef at one point. He decants our recommended Casa Silva Carmenere from Chile which he describes as full-bodied but delicate. He’s a cheery presence who elevates our evening and contextualises all that’s on offer. As we dissect the dessert list, he explains the history of one of the items – Crêpe Suzette – something to do with a mistake which caused sugar to caramelise, chef Henri Charpentier, the future King Edward VII and a guest companion who was actually called Suzanne. 

Of course, we chose the Crêpe Suzette, which Gianni prepares in front of us with more theatre. Our receptionist joins for good measure, as does another waitress. The dish is prepared on a tall, antique silver stove with some pouring, some flourishing and a metre and a half blue flash flame which delights all concerned. Pancakes swim in orange butter sauce, chunks of orange lounge and a Tahitian Vanilla bean ice cream melts from the dish’s middle. My friend says it’s better than her mum’s which must be the biggest compliment a diner can make – just don’t tell the mum.

My mum never experimented with White Chocolate Mousse but I think she’d have struggled to match this one. The plate has a largely golden, orange palette wherein a quenelle of mango sorbet is flanked by two quenelles of white mousse as mango salsa, a thin and surprise layer of meringue, a smattering of white chocolate soil all add to the bravura. It’s a fantastic way to end an exceptional evening where a calm but intimate atmosphere is compounded with charismatic service and thrilling cooking. 

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A decade in the making, opening its doors in 2019, the hotel forms part of the Manhattan Loft Gardens, a development by seasoned property developer Harry Handelsman. Set over 42 floors, with the hotel occupying the lower 6 floors and the other floors forming ‘The Lofts’, a collection of longer stay apartments. The building, designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, the firm behind some of the world’s most structurally ambitious buildings, including the Burj Khalifa and One World Trade Center. Taking the form of a double-cantilevered tower with two diagonal slices dramatically carved out of its profile, which allows it to incorporate three sky gardens at levels 7, 25 and 36. The result is a reinterpretation of London’s historical gardens, this time arranged vertically in the sky.

Location

Located in London’s former Olympic zone, the area is amidst miles of open parkland alongside Westfield Stratford City, a vast shopping destination filled with flagship brands and luxury shopping. For ABBA fans, the ABBA Voyage area is a short walk away, while the newly opened V&A East Warehouse is an essential cultural stop for design and art lovers.

While Stratford can initially feel slightly removed from central London, its transport links are exceptional. Stratford Station connects via Underground, Overground, DLR and the Elizabeth Line, taking you into Liverpool Street within 15 minutes and Heathrow Airport in just over 40 minutes. For high-speed rail users, Stratford International Station offers a swift seven-minute journey to St Pancras International, making Eurostar connections a breeze.

The Lounge

Enter through The Lounge, a capacious triple-height space, floor-to-ceiling windows allows light to flood in, the space is softened with greenery and a double-sided 10-metre fireplace is the focal point. Overhead, The Mezzanine bar peeks out from a curved interior balcony, while below, a central lounge bar offers an inviting spot for evening drinks. To the rear, an open kitchen serves breakfast through to dinner each day in the hotel’s Kitchen E20 restaurant.

Discreetly positioned just off The Lounge, the hotel’s reception offers a swift and welcoming check-in experience.

Artwork

Curated artwork features throughout the hotel, in the Lounge, look up where you will see “Murmuration” by Paul Cocksedge. Hanging centrally, the installation forms part of Cocksedge’s ongoing experiments with paper, exploring what it means as both a material and cultural artefact. Murmuration invites reflection on our shifting relationship with the printed page in an increasingly digital world, turning the ceiling into a moment of quiet contemplation within the bustle of the lobby.

When heading to your room, take time to have a look at “Anatomy of the Void” by Artist Petroc Sesti, which is featured in the courtyard. It’s the largest instalment to date in the development of solar-powered fluid artworks. weighing over six tons and standing seven meters tall it acts like a vast crystal ball, bending light and water.

Rooms & Suites

Danish design studio, Space Copenhagen bring their own signature style, which they call ‘poetic modernism’, to communal guest spaces and guestrooms. In the rooms, Scandinavian minimalism is fused with warm, tactile textures, using natural oak, soft pastels and stone bathrooms, creating a calm contrast to the building’s bold modern architecture.

The 145-rooms range from Standard, Superior, Executive, Accessible, Deluxe and Family Rooms, suited to couples, families and friends, while Junior, Stratford and Manhattan Studios, which feature both living and dining spaces in addition to capacity for hosting three guests. All rooms are furnished with king, queen or super king-size beds with Egyptian cotton sheets, in addition to Nespresso coffee machines, and Jo Loves toiletries, The Stratford hoodies, in-room dressing gowns and a stocked mini bar.

My Suite During My Stay

During my stay, I was hosted in a Manhattan Studio, the hotel’s largest room category. A super king bed sits in the centre of this vast 64 sqm space, while red tub armchairs and a curved sofa lend a pop of colour and personality, along with a separate dining area. Windows wrap around the corner of the room in a zig-zag formation, adding architectural interest, while the angular layout further enhances the views across Stratford’s skyline.

As day turned to night, the view becomes cinematic as the neon from Stratford’s illuminated walkways and buildings glowed into the room.

A long, dark-wood sideboard runs beneath the wall-mounted TV. One end hosts a neat in-room coffee and tea station with a Nespresso machine and a kettle, while beneath, the minibar is stocked with local and international soft drinks and alcohol.

The bathroom is a sanctuary in its own right, encased in smooth marble, with soft floor and ceiling lighting. A sculptural freestanding bathtub is positioned by the window, which looks down on Stratford International Station. Across from the bath, is a large glass-sided rainfall shower and a sleek vanity area. Just remember, the windows aren’t one-way, so for added privacy, be sure to draw the mesh curtains before sinking into the tub…

Leading from the bedroom to the bathroom, a double-sided walk-through wardrobe offers lots of storage and hanging space and off to one side, lies a separate WC with its own basin for additional privacy.

The hotel is part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection Hotels, properties chosen for their distinct perspectives on design and hospitality and immersive experiences. At The Stratford, this is inspired by the Olympic legacy of growth and transformation of the local area. Guests are invited to plant a seed on-site, symbolising growth, renewal and connection to East London’s cultural regeneration.

Leaving the room for breakfast the following morning, I was quite taken with the robotic hoover giving off a neon hue and silently gliding through the corridor. In step with the hotel’s tech-forward touches, the property runs entirely off LED lighting while solar panels reduce its carbon footprint, and the three sky terraces double as gardens supplying herbs and plants to the restaurants.

Kokin

The hotel’s destination restaurant Kokin is on the seventh floor, meaning 古今, a name that brings together the opposing elements of past and present. Led by head chef Daisuke Shimoyama, who made his name introducing seasonally-focused Kaiseki-style dining to London’s restaurant scene, at Hannah on the South Bank and prior to that at Umu, a Michelin-starred restaurant. Here, Shimoyama’s menu honours the fine traditions of Japanese cuisine, while infusing it with modern flair.

The restaurant forms an L-shape with minimalist interiors and a muted colour palette, which lets the sushi and sashimi and vividly mismatched ceramics lead. Our server is fun and a font of knowledge about the menu. He guides us towards the Starter Platter, this beautifully presented tray comes with Oyster Katsu, Homemade Tofu, Saba Sushi. Chawanmushi and Aubergine Tempura.

For mains we opted for the Chef’s Sashimi selection, which comes in either five or seven piece sets. Precision-cut pieces of sustainably-caught Portuguese Tuna, Salmon and Scallops melt in the mouth, while the Sea Urchin, which I haven’t tried before, offers a unique seafood flavour profile.

We also opted for a set of Assorted Vegetable Tempura, and the Abergine Dengaku, which can be glided through like butter and provided an explosion of delightful flavours on the palate. Everything impressed me but the Wood-fired Miso Marinated Grilled Black Tuna provided a real highlight for its unique texture. Generously sized chunks of Wild Blue Fin Tuna Collar are slow-cooked outside each day on the terrace, and then doused with an eight-year-aged homemade Ponzu sauce before serving. The fat and flesh are strikingly meaty, as its rich, briny-deep flavours further ratchet up the meal’s smokiness factor.

Kitchen E20

Next morning, I headed to Kitchen E20 for breakfast, this relaxed all-day restaurant, complete with an open kitchen and outside terrace seating. Taking an à la carte format, options include the Full English, Vegetarian Full English, or Shakshouka with baked egg, crumbled feta and avocado. Lighter bites include cinnamon-spiced porridge, smashed avocado on sourdough with poached eggs, or buttermilk pancakes with blueberries and crème fraîche. I went for the Smashed avocado, chilli, lime & coriander on toasted sourdough with two poached eggs. The breakfast menu includes one dish plus access to a help yourself counter selection of fresh fruit, yoghurts, cereals, pastries, toast, cold cuts and juices.

Mezzanine

The Mezzanine is a speakeasy-style cocktail bar on the first floor. Here you can expect contemporary twists on classic cocktails, along with an extensive selection of premium spirits and champagne along with live music, DJs, and events on weekends.

Fitness

The hotel also includes a very comprehensive gym and studio, featuring free weights, rowing machines, a stair-climber, strength equipment, treadmills and cardiovascular equipment. Guests also have the opportunity to experience a range of Olympic Venues through a series of exclusive partnerships, including the Copper Box Arena, London Aquatics Centre and Lee Valley VeloPark.

Final Thoughts

Striking from the outside and soothing within, it’s well-suited to both business travellers and city explorers. Add in super-fast transport links across London and to Europe, and you have a hotel that feels every bit as forward-looking as the neighbourhood it calls home.

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The hotel is offering an indulgent overnight experience combining a romantic stay with dinner at the sleek in-house restaurant Lilli and breakfast the next day. To make your experience truly memorable, a selection of guest enhancements can be arranged after booking:

• Welcome drink and artisan chocolates on arrival
• Valentine-themed Champagne Afternoon Tea at Lilli by Akira Back for two
• Late check-out for a leisurely morning together
• A couple’s spa treatment at the serene YÃTRA Signature Spa

For more information and to book visit the website here

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Cocktails are mainly twists on classics, though the Basilica, less so. Gin, spiced pear, basil and lemon offer a refreshing sup with the basil revved up in a deceptive purple. My Fichi is, essentially, a fig infused negroni. It packs a heavy and pleasing punch with a lingering aniseed kick. A blood orange red in appearance, along with the Basilica, softer rouge with pink shade, the two look like they’re making a concerted effort to brighten the capital’s winter blues.

Starters are for sharing and three is the recommended portion for two. The Beef Tataki is a sight for sore eyes with taste and texture to match relevant organs. Seared on the outside, the steak is raw within and melts in the mouth. Chargrill adds character to the sourdough and a grapefruit does the same to a small but sprightly salad. Nestled in a large dollop of Greek yoghurt, the Tuna Tartar is less pure than many Mediterranean variations. Served with two za’atar crackers, it’s more of a dipping dish with pickled onions and chives offering an unexpected crunch. The Shrimp Falafel is visually the most playful, is literal in presentation with a crunchy fried prawn, tail and all, stuffed through a falafel; it looks like a crustacean on its way to an avant garde fancy dress party. Green and red dips add vibrancy and colour to the costume. My friend is allergic to shellfish but I happily consume both falafels. 

Ron, our sommelier, takes us expertly through the wine list and guides us towards a Christian Rouchier Syrah Aintraigue. It has a dark berry complexity and reminds of us those distant Christmas nights. The longer it decants, Ron explains, the better it tastes and each glass will be superior to the previous one. He’s not wrong and as he’s explaining all this, sous-chef Gal rushes from the kitchen to tell us he’s added a couple of tasting dishes to our mains. Along with Pantelis, the restaurant manager, who adds an infectiously happy presence, the three staff make for a perfect team brimming with enthusiasm, knowledge and affability. 

The Steak Bavette is warmer than our Beef Tataki but otherwise similar. We have no-one to blame except ourselves though, and, actually, no-one’s complaining. The steak is a sumptuous medium rare and blends with celeriac purée. The Turbot Steak is delicate and firm and swims amongst seasonal vegetables in a ras el hanout butter sauce. Of our side dishes, the Okra is a rich and exotic and could well be promoted to a main dish. With slow cooked tomatoes which verge towards ratatouille, a paprika aftertaste, a generous portion of creamy labneh and grated cheese, it’s a filling showstopper. A crispy leafed salad is crunchy and fresh; its beguiling pink leaves make it resemble a prototype for a Marc Quinn photograph or a Willy Wonka invention after Willy moved on from his chocolate factory. There’s also an unexotic baked potato which is well done and is spread with a smattering of garlic and dill butter. If nothing else, it wins our sympathy vote, sitting as it does, slightly lonely if not redundant on the side of our side dishes.  

My friend has to unzip her belt buckle a notch or two but doesn’t shy away from dessert or the Oremus late harvest Tokaji that Ron chooses for us. I usually opt for chocolate or caramel desserts but on this occasion am drawn to Malabi, a Middle Eastern rose flavoured milk pudding. It’s the right decision, is delicate and fragrant and reminds of a viscous Turkish delight.

What looks like fried plantain on its top is a swathe of crispy cinnamon. Pistachios, black berries, strawberries and candied nuts add to a refreshing and surprisingly light finale, something that can also be said, unexpectedly, about the date cake. Final preparations take place in front of us and it’s served on a black Swiss chalet type metal dish. There’s whiskey caramel, pecan crumble and a healthy dollop of coconut ice cream. Possessed of an intoxicating lightness, it has the comfort of a sticky toffee pudding with none of the density and works as perfect fuel for us to head back into the drippy February night.  

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Originally opened in 1927 as The Park Lane Hotel, the building is one of London’s finest examples of original Art Deco architecture. Designed by Adie, Button & Partners, expanding on an earlier concept by C. W. Stephens, the architect behind Harrods. Clad in Portland stone and shaped in a U-formation, the structure exudes the confidence and symmetry of its era. Marble columns flank the central entrance, and on either side, curved porticos shelter the twin entrances to Mercante and Smith & Whistle, while the symmetrical façade, bold lines, and grand proportions make a powerful first impression and lasting legacy of 1920s architectural ambition.

Step inside and you’re immediately struck by the newly reopened Palm Court’s luminous calm (in preparation for the hotel’s centenary in 2027). Look up, and you will see the restored stained‑glass skylights which stretch across the vaulted ceiling, bathing the room in natural light. Clusters of curved sofas and contemporary tub chairs create inviting pockets for conversation and social moments, while green marble tables and brushed chrome in the lounge/bar combine organic richness with industrial sheen. Keep your eye out for the sculpted botanical friezes, which add a new tactile elegance to the side walls. The redesign also takes inspiration from the rhythmic abstractions of Marion Dorn, a textile artist of the early 20th century, with layered patterns in the carpets and textured upholstered stools, which help bridge the hotel’s past to its present.

Palm Court images by Matthew Shaw

To celebrate the reopening of Palm Court, Head Pastry Chef Biju Joshwa has introduced a new Art Deco-inspired Afternoon Tea menu. In addition, hotel guests can also enjoy live piano performances on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings and a curated cocktail list that pays homage to Mayfair’s golden era. 

Lobby

Tucked behind Palm Court is the hotel’s lobby and vehicle entrance, where a plethora of attentive door and reception staff make checking in a breeze. A series of lifts are dotted about, taking you to the upper floors, while a wall of monochrome prints conceals the entrance to the hotel’s original Art Deco brass staircase, which is worth a look – but don’t look down if you suffer from vertigo.

Location

Despite the name Park Lane, the hotel does, infact, sit directly on Picadilly in the very heart of Mayfair, which, in my opinion, is more convenient than Park Lane itself. It’s a short stroll to Green Park Station in one direction, then along to Picadilly Circus. In the other direction, Hyde Park Corner is minutes away, which leads onto Knightsbridge. walk behind the hotel to the luxury shops of Bond Street and make sure to walk through Burlington Arcade en-route.

Rooms & Suites

Each of the 305 rooms and suites is designed as a calming sanctuary away from the buzz of Mayfair. Deluxe Rooms come with either a queen or king bed, city views, and offer sleek built-in storage. Superior Rooms offer additional square footage and the option of Green Park views. For extra indulgences, 43 of the rooms are Club Rooms, which grant exclusive access to the Sheraton Club Lounge offering complimentary refreshments throughout the day and evening. Bathrooms are fitted with combined tub-showers and stocked with Sheraton-branded Le Grand Bain amenities, while all rooms include a Sheraton Signature Sleep Experience Bed.

For those looking to spread out a little more, the hotel’s collection of 21 suites includes Junior Suites with defined seating areas and upgraded toiletries, as well as the Park View Suites, which overlook Green Park and feature an additional living room and marble bathrooms with separate soaking tubs and walk-in showers. At the top of the range is the Grand Suite, the hotel’s most prestigious accommodation. This multi-room residence includes a lounge, dining space, study, and marble bathroom, with the option to interconnect and form a three-bedroom private apartment.

Art Deco Suite

During my stay, I was hosted in an Art Deco Suite, offering a very generous 40sqm of living space. At its centre proudly sits a king-size Sheraton Signature Sleep Experience bed, which delivers on its promise of restorative comfort, and above it a geometric mirrored deco headboard. Dark wood furnishings are softened by a muted neutral palette, with further deco accents in the two-tier coffee table, velvet-upholstered bench at the foot of the bed, complete with square cushions and contrast piping, and a stylised face on the table by the window, an inviting tribute to 1920s design.

To the right of the bed, what initially appeared to be a standard wardrobe revealed itself as a surprisingly spacious walk-in dressing area, complete with a full-length mirror and ample storage space to hide away luggage.

Across from the bed, the space opens into a living area with a coffee table and a further gold-accented pedestal table. Integrated into the cabinetry, the minibar is stocked with premium snacks and drinks, and above a Nespresso machine and kettle sit alongside a coffee and tea selection. The flat screen TV is set flush within a dark wood panel, and below a pair of ceramic dalmatian dogs and orange lighting creates a focal point, almost like that of a fireplace.

In the bathroom, white metro tiles are laid horizontally and broken up with a dark mosaic tile band. A walk-in rainfall shower sits alongside a full-sized bath, and the vanity comes with twin sinks.

Sheraton Club

Guests staying in a club room or suite enjoy access to the Sheraton Club Lounge on the ground floor. Residential in feel and open daily, the lounge offers a dedicated check-in service, along with plenty of seating and quiet nooks at which to work.

Throughout the afternoon, guests can enjoy light refreshments, soft drinks and snacks, while evenings include a spread of canapés, cheeses, and desserts (make sure you try the pies!), accompanied by a selection of wines, beers, and spirits.

In the morning, breakfast is served, with freshly baked pastries, seasonal fruit, and hot à la carte items available alongside barista-style coffee. 

Mercante

Located just off Palm Court, the hotel’s main restaurant, Mercante, offers a relaxed Italian dining experience that contrasts with that of the surrounding Art Deco grandeur. Interiors take cues from Italy’s vibrant food markets, with warm timber textures and vintage-style illustrations. A hand-drawn map of Italy stretches across one wall.

The menu champions Mediterranean flavours, and we instantly bonded with our server over a shared love of Sardinia, her home region. We began with the charcuterie board, which arrived piled with prosciutto, aged cheese, grilled focaccia, and plump green olives, while the polenta fries with truffle mayo added a crispy, earthy contrast.

There’s a touch of tableside theatre at Mercante, the Dover Sole was filleted in front of me and served simply pan-fried with a caramelised half lemon. A neighbouring table gave me food envy with their carbonara, dramatically tossed and flamed in a giant wheel of cheese. While the sirloin, served pre-sliced, revealed its perfectly pink centre.

For dessert, a silky tiramisu arrived shaped like a cocoa-dusted coffee bean, and two cannoli were piped to order with pistachio and citrus ricotta fillings.

Breakfast

Next morning and purely in the name of journalism… I managed to squeeze in a breakfast at Mercante as well. This large-format buffet offers a wide selection of hot and cold foods along with an omelette station.

Smith & Whistle

Time didn’t allow for a visit, but the hotel’s Smith & Whistle takes inspiration from the fictional story of Detective Inspector Smith and his pursuit of legendary high-class criminal Mr William Whistle. Serving modern food inspired by the classics and seasonal ingredients that have been specially sourced by the chefs from a range of regions in the British Isles.

Fitness

Like many of my hotel stays, good intentions to hit the gym often fall victim to indulgent pursuits, but for those with more resolve, the Sheraton Grand’s 24-hour fitness centre awaits on the lower ground floor and is open 24 hours a day.

Final Thoughts

With views across Green Park, a walkable Mayfair location, club-level comforts and deep Art Deco roots, along with a newly refurbished Palm Court, the Sheraton Grand London Park Lane continues to maintain its place as one of the capital’s classic addresses.

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