Have you ever wondered what it would be like to stay in a hotel that’s as cool as it is comfortable? Well, wonder no more! Ian Schrager, the man who practically invented the boutique hotel, has done it again with the London EDITION, and it’s everything you’d expect from a visionary.
A Buzzing Lobby and a Stylish Vibe
Stepping into the London EDITION is like entering a stylish Belle Epoque mansion that’s been brought to life. The lobby is a hive of activity, a place where people gather to be seen and to experience something special. A two-meter chrome egg hangs from the high ceilings, catching the light and adding to the overall sense of dynamism. The space is a mix of marble columns, lush green lounge areas, and a discreet reception area tucked behind the lobby bar. Schrager has created a captivating experience that’s engaging and intriguing, even before you’ve set foot in your room.
A Feast for the Senses: Berners Tavern and Beyond
The hotel’s restaurant, Berners Tavern, is a visual feast in itself. Imagine endless gilt-framed landscape paintings juxtaposed with moody portraits – a quirky mix that adds to the energetic vibe of the space. It’s a busy but captivating environment that reflects the energy of the hotel as a whole.
The restaurant is just the beginning. For a more intimate experience, there’s the Punch Room, where you can savor expertly crafted cocktails in a cozy, stylish setting. This is a place to enjoy a quiet conversation or a nightcap with friends.
A Room with a View (and a Quirky TV)
My room, like the rest of the hotel, is a perfect blend of ornate and minimalist. The dark wood-paneled walls are paired with blonde timber floors, creating a cozy, earthy ambiance. The bathroom is a stark contrast, with white mosaics that add a touch of modern edge.
The bed is as luxurious as you’d expect, with a huge, inviting mattress and a soft, brown fur throw. Big drop lights create a warm, inviting atmosphere. There’s a walk-in closet, a minibar stocked with artisan chocolates and handcrafted popcorn, and even a London EDITION notebook for jotting down your thoughts or writing a review (just like this one!).
The room is fantastic, but the one minor hiccup is the television. It hangs awkwardly from the wall, looking like it might fall at any moment. But fear not, there’s a cozy reading chair with its own pouf and lighting for those times when you want to relax and unwind.
A Culinary Delight: Great British Food and Fashionable Cocktails
The food at Berners Tavern is as impressive as the space itself. Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton offers up a contemporary menu of delicious British dishes that are both innovative and satisfying.
Overall: A Must-Visit for the Young-at-Heart
The London EDITION is an excellent addition to the London hotel scene. Its location is prime, its service is impeccable, and the experience is truly sublime. If you’re looking for a hotel that’s stylish, vibrant, and full of life, this is the place for you.
Here’s a breakdown of my ratings:
- Location: 9/10 – Oxford Street and the nightlife of Soho are right at your doorstep.
- Style/character: 9.5/10 – This is cool that you’ve never seen before.
- Service: 8/10 – Slightly too cool for school, but incredibly professional.
- Rooms: 8/10 – Clever use of space, precariously hung TV aside.
- Food and drink: 9.5/10 – Great British dining that holds its own without the hotel.
- Value for money: 9.5/10 – While it’s pricey, the experience is worth every penny.
So, if you’re looking for a unique and exciting hotel experience in London, the London EDITION is the place to be. You won’t be disappointed!
