Imagine this: you’re seated on a plush, cushioned armchair, surrounded by lush greenery, with the gentle sway of ancient trees overhead. Waiters are attentive, filling your glass with exquisite wine, and plates of delicious food are delivered to your table. It might sound like a scene from a countryside idyll, but this delightful experience awaits you right in the heart of London, at The Park Terrace of the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park Hotel.
A Touch of the Riviera in the City
While technically not in Hyde Park, the terrace’s proximity to the sprawling green space, separated by a small lawn, a trimmed hedge, and a road, evokes a strong sense of the outdoors. You feel like you’ve escaped the bustling city, transported to a serene oasis. The grand hotel behind you, affectionately known as the “Dowager of Knightsbridge,” further enhances the illusion, with its charming old-world charm. In fact, for a fleeting moment, I found myself picturing a French Riviera resort, with the gentle breeze and the expansive lawns. But then, my gaze landed on the majestic trees, grounding me back in the reality of Hyde Park.
A Culinary Journey Across the Globe
The Park Terrace’s menu is an exciting journey for the palate, offering a diverse selection of cuisines, from Asian and Arabic to European. For my dinner, I opted for a classic European experience, accompanied by a sparkling glass of Moët. It was the perfect way to soak in the clement weather and savor the al fresco dining.
The service was impeccable, with a friendly and efficient staff. I was particularly impressed by Giuseppe Casella, the Junior Assistant Restaurant Manager, and Daniel Walder, the Head Waiter, both of whom went above and beyond to ensure a pleasant experience. While there was a slight hiccup with the bread arriving a bit late, I chalked it up to the teething problems of a new venture, as the terrace had only opened a week prior.
A Symphony of Flavors
Chef Chris Tombling’s culinary creations are a harmonious blend of simplicity and sophistication, using high-quality ingredients to create dishes that are both delicious and visually appealing.
My steamed asparagus, kissed with lemon and hollandaise sauce, was a light and refreshing starter, followed by beef carpaccio that was beautifully balanced with rocket, parmesan, and lemon oil. For my main course, I couldn’t resist the tender fillet of beef, served with crispy thick chips and field mushrooms. The beef was exceptionally flavorful, a testament to its English origin.
For dessert, I indulged in a classic English rice pudding, a comforting end to the meal. Enriched with raspberry jam and ripple ice cream, it was the perfect sweet note to conclude the evening.
A Wine Journey to Complement the Food
The Park Terrace’s wine list offers a concise selection, ranging from affordable options like the vin de pays D’Oc to premium vintages like the 1970 Vega Sicilia Unico.
For my asparagus, I decided on a German Riesling from the Foliage Restaurant’s extensive wine list. The Scharzhofberger, Egon Müller, 2003, was a delightful experience, with its complex aromas of petrol, citrus, and honey, and its low alcohol content.
For my red wine, I chose the 2004 Tassinaia from the Park Terrace’s list, a Tuscan wine with bold black fruit flavors. While it still needs a few years to fully mellow its tannins, its rugged character complemented the hearty beef dish perfectly.
A Night to Remember
As I strolled back through the hotel, out into the vibrant streets of Knightsbridge, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of contented satisfaction. The Park Terrace is a true gem, offering a unique dining experience in the heart of London. Who knew you could find such a delicious escape in Hyde Park?
