London’s hotel restaurants are no longer the dull, predictable dining options of the past. They’ve transformed into stylish, exciting spaces where the “dining experience” is just as important as the food.
It wasn’t always this way. Once upon a time, hotel restaurants were merely functional spaces, often uninspired and serving up predictable fare. They were seen as a convenient option for tired travelers, but rarely a destination in their own right.
But times have changed, and London is currently experiencing a boom in exciting new hotel restaurant openings. Hoteliers are recognizing that a distinctive culinary experience is key to attracting guests and keeping them coming back for more.
Reimagining Classic Spaces
The Dorchester, London’s iconic landmark hotel, has undergone a spectacular facelift, and with it, the introduction of two renowned celebrity chef restaurants. Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, one of only five 3-Michelin-starred restaurants in the UK, offers an exceptional fine dining experience, but its air of “airport lounge chic”, with its emphasis on luxury and exclusivity, can feel a bit impersonal, leaving some longing for a touch of the Dorchester’s past charm.
The Savoy Grill, another legendary London dining destination, has undergone a transformation under the helm of Gordon Ramsay. While the legendary Beef Wellington remains on the menu, the original character of the dining room has been sacrificed in favour of a more contemporary, “clubby” vibe. The design, though vaguely reminiscent of the 1920s, feels more like a Disneyfied interpretation of the era than a genuine homage.
Preserving History and Embracing New Ideas
In contrast to the more contemporary reinventions at The Dorchester and The Savoy, The Connaught in Mayfair, a hotel steeped in history, has opted to preserve the elegance of its original interior. Designer John Heah has carefully restored the 70-year-old Grill, creating a cozy and inviting space where classic comfort food reigns supreme.
Across the city, St Pancras Renaissance Hotel is celebrating 150 years of architectural grandeur with the opening of the Midland Grand, a restaurant housed within Gilbert Scott’s stunning Grade 1 listed building. The opulence of the restaurant almost rivals that of the hotel’s main competitor, the Booking Hall. The menu features classic French dishes, perfect for a pre-Eurostar meal.
Trendy Rooftop Views and Global Flavors
The Standard Hotel in Euston offers a vibrant contrast to the more traditional offerings in the city. Decimo, their rooftop restaurant, boasts breathtaking views across the city skyline and serves up a tempting menu of Spanish and Mexican sharing plates.
The Langham’s newest addition, The Good Front Room, a Caribbean-inspired restaurant, might seem a bit out of place in the hotel’s stately surroundings, but it’s a welcome addition. Chef Dom Taylor, known for his award-winning culinary skills, delivers authentic flavors and a refreshing, laid-back vibe.
For those seeking a dining experience with a view, Joia at the art-otel offers stunning panoramas of Battersea Power Station. Two-Michelin-starred chef Henrique Sa Pessoa serves Catalan classics, though you’ll pay a premium for the dramatic setting.
Classic British Elegance and Modern Culinary Techniques
The Game Bird, tucked away in St James’s, offers a classic British dining experience in a setting that harkens back to a bygone era. The Stafford’s elegant restaurant features an ultra-British ambiance of wood-paneled sedateness.
Pavyllon, the latest addition to the Four Seasons Hotel, offers a modern interpretation of French cuisine, with Michelin-starred Chef Yannick Alléno’s signature culinary techniques on display. The open kitchen allows diners to witness the artistry of their meals being prepared.
From Italy to California and Beyond
London’s hotel restaurants are also embracing global flavors. Sette at Bulgari Knightsbridge, an offshoot of Manhattan’s Scarpetta, offers authentic Italian cuisine. Nobu, the renowned Japanese restaurant chain, has opened a new location in Portman Square, with its iconic dishes, including Rock Shrimp Tempura and Miso Black Cod.
Laurel’s on the Roof, atop the Mondrian hotel, channels the vibe of LA’s legendary hippie canyon. The restaurant features a swimming pool and a California-inspired brunch menu.
Historic Spaces and Haunting Atmospheres
The NoMad hotel, housed in the former Bow Street magistrate’s court, is one of London’s most fascinating spaces. The preserved courtroom where Oscar Wilde was tried adds a haunting atmosphere to the stylish glass conservatory restaurant.
The Amano Hotel’s signature restaurant, Penelope’s, combines the flavors of Spain and Israel in a stylish dining room that doubles as a dance floor for Isramani nights, when a lively crowd enjoys plates of crab bourekas and lamb doughnuts.
Sweet Treats and a Flourishing Scene
For those with a sweet tooth, Cakes and Bubbles at the recently refurbished Café Royal offers a delectable selection of pastries, perfectly paired with champagne.
London’s hotel restaurants are experiencing a golden age, offering a vibrant and diverse culinary landscape. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious dining experience, a dose of history, or simply a great meal with a view, London’s hotels have something for everyone. The city’s vibrant hotel restaurant scene continues to evolve and delight, with something new to discover around every corner.
