It’s no longer enough for hotels to simply provide a place to rest your head. Today’s travelers demand a sensory experience, and London’s hotels are rising to the challenge, transforming their dining offerings into culinary destinations.
From Dowdy to Divine: A Hotel Restaurant Evolution
Remember those dreary hotel restaurants, designed solely for convenience and catering to a captive audience? Well, those days are gone. The rise of celebrity chefs, Michelin-starred restaurants and the ever-increasing focus on dining as an experience has sparked a culinary revolution in London’s hotel scene.
A Look Back at the Classics
While London’s hotel restaurants are embracing the new, it’s impossible to ignore the heritage of some of these iconic establishments. The Dorchester, once a haven for the likes of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, has undergone a lavish transformation, complete with Alain Ducasse and Tom Booton at the helm. Yet, the Dorchester’s grandeur has been somewhat overshadowed by the corporate aesthetic that seems to permeate many modern hotel restaurants.
The Savoy Grill, a London institution, has also fallen victim to this trend. Although Gordon Ramsay has breathed new life into the legendary dining room, it now lacks the unique charm that once defined the space. The 1920s aesthetic, while well-executed, feels more Disney than deco, leaving one wondering if the original character has been lost.
A Touch of Nostalgia: Preserving the Past
Fortunately, not all hotels are sacrificing their heritage for modern trends. The Connaught in Mayfair is a shining example of a hotel that has successfully preserved its lavish interiors. The 70-year-old Grill has been beautifully restored, complete with cosy panelled booths and a menu featuring comfort food classics.
A Neo-Gothic Feast: Historic Splendor
At the St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel, a masterpiece of neo-gothic architecture, the newly opened Midland Grand pays homage to the hotel’s 150-year history. With Gilbert Scott’s Grade 1 listed interior as a backdrop, the dining room is a breathtaking spectacle. The menu, unsurprisingly, features French classics, perfect for a pre-Eurostar indulgence.
A Touch of California: Sunset Views and Hip Vibes
For a more modern and vibrant experience, head to The Standard Hotel, where Decimo offers Spanish and Mexican sharing plates. Enjoy delicately flavored tacos, tender sirloin, and stunning sunset views from the rooftop bar.
Laurel’s on the Roof, atop the Mondrian hotel, brings a touch of California cool to London. With its swimming pool and pancake-laden brunch, it’s a perfect spot for a laid-back afternoon.
A Global Culinary Journey: From Spain to Israel
London’s hotels are truly offering a global culinary journey, with restaurants representing diverse cuisines from around the world. Penelope’s, at the Amano Hotel, blends the bold flavors of Spain with the hearty dishes of Israel. The stylish dining room transforms into a dance floor on Isramani night, where you can enjoy crab bourekas and lamb doughnuts to the rhythm of the music.
A Sweet Escape: Pastries and Bubbles
For a delightful treat, visit Cakes and Bubbles at the Café Royal. Indulge in a selection of delicate pastries paired with a glass of bubbly.
London’s Hotel Restaurants: A Culinary Renaissance
The explosion of imaginative in-house restaurants in London’s hotels is a testament to the city’s growing culinary scene. Whether you crave Michelin-starred cuisine, comfort food classics, or a taste of the world, there’s a hotel restaurant in London waiting to delight your senses. So, book your table, savor the experience, and enjoy the culinary renaissance that is sweeping London’s hotel scene.
