Mayfair, with its posh clubs and restaurants on Berkeley Square, its expensive art galleries, and impossibly expensive private homes, has long been known for its sophisticated air. But beneath this refined facade lies a hint of bohemia, a reminder of the area’s artistic past. Wander through Shepherd’s Market and you’ll sense the lingering presence of artists and poets who once frequented its streets, back when life in Mayfair wasn’t quite so pricey.
A Haven of Luxury: The Chesterfield Hotel
This old-world charm is alive and well at the Chesterfield Hotel, a stylish and refined haven just a stone’s throw from Shepherd’s Market and Berkeley Square. The bright lights of the trendy Sexy Fish restaurant are just visible from the hotel entrance, but inside, you’ll find an atmosphere of exclusive luxury, a hallmark of the Red Carnation hotel group. From the moment you step inside, you’re enveloped in a world of professional service and warmth, where every whim is anticipated and met with a smile.
A Luxurious Retreat: The Philippe Suite
I spent the night in the grand Philippe Suite, a splendid oasis of blue and white floral wallpaper, a four-poster bed, a separate sitting room, a bathroom stocked with Floris toiletries, and more space for clothes and trinkets than you could ever imagine. This luxurious haven embodies the epitome of comfort and sophistication, a stark contrast to the minimalist trends of today. But before I could truly unwind, it was time for the highlight of my stay: a gin masterclass at the hotel’s Terrace Bar.
An Exploration of Gin: A Tutored Tasting
Led by the charismatic bar manager, Alejandro, the Chesterfield offers a range of tutored tastings, featuring rum, whisky, and even an intriguing beer and cheese pairing. However, as a gin enthusiast, I couldn’t resist the opportunity to explore three different gins, including the classic Martin Miller and the bold Monkey 47. Alejandro expertly guided me through the tasting, pairing each gin with three different tonics.
The Art of the Perfect Gin and Tonic
Forget what you thought you knew about gin and tonic: it’s a refined art, a subtle symphony of flavors. Alejandro, with a gleam in his eye and a genuine passion for gin, revealed the intricacies of this classic cocktail. He even mentioned plans to introduce a vermouth-tasting masterclass in 2024, further showcasing the hotel’s commitment to elevating the experience of drinking.
Indulging in Culinary Delights at the Butler’s Restaurant
My gin masterclass proved the perfect prelude to dinner at the Butler’s Restaurant, adjacent to the hotel. The restaurant’s timeless elegance complements the hotel’s sophisticated atmosphere. My meal began with Forman’s smoked salmon, accompanied by a glass of Walker Bay Sauvignon Blanc. While delicious, the wine could have benefited from being chilled a bit more. A perfectly cooked rib-eye, served with bearnaise sauce and some of the best triple-cooked chips I’ve ever tasted, was paired with a delectable Cabernet Sauvignon. And to finish, I enjoyed a Winter Berry trifle, a delightful nod to the hotel’s Christmas menu, although I decided to hold off on the festive fare. After all, once you start indulging in turkey and pigs in blankets, it’s hard to stop!
A Night of Uninterrupted Rest and a Farewell to Mayfair
As you might expect, I slept exceptionally well in the comfortable and luxurious Philippe Suite. A delicious breakfast in my room provided the perfect pick-me-up before venturing back out into the bustling streets of London. As I bid farewell to the Chesterfield, I carried with me the lingering sense of sophistication and elegance that permeated every aspect of my stay. This rare gem, nestled in the heart of Mayfair, is a haven of luxury and refinement, offering a respite from the often brash and fast-paced energy of the city. At the Chesterfield, you can truly relax and unwind, knowing that you’re in good hands.
The Chesterfield is part of the Red Carnation collection. For more information, including room rates, experiences, and offers, please visit www.chesterfieldmayfair.com.
