Reviews & Interviews - Luxury Hospitality Magazine

Yule Love It: Southwark Quarter Promises Seasonal Splendour

Jade — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 09:48:25 +0000

Step into the enchanting realm of the Southwark Quarter, where the very air shimmers with the promise of a magical yuletide celebration. This hidden gem, now transformed into a festive haven, extends a warm invitation to indulge in seasonal delights from dawn to dusk. Savour delectable fare, sip on delightful drinks, and revel in merriment at their charming restaurants and festive pop-ups. Laughter echoes through the heart of the city as the vibrant Ciroc Shuffle Board Club comes alive. Hosted by Carrubo, you can book courts for friendly games, all while savouring seasonal Ciroc cocktails that add an extra layer of enjoyment to the lively atmosphere. Try the Carrubo Sidecar featuring winter-spiced cognac, orange liqueur, lemon, and cinnamon, or opt for a refreshing Winter Spritz with sloe gin, select aperitivo, and soda. For a warm embrace as you unwind post-game in the après clubhouse, savour the Picante Cocktail blending tequila, chilli, coriander, lime, and agave. The ultimate yuletide city escape! Now, with the holiday spirit in full swing, let’s delve into the culinary delights awaiting you at the heart of this vibrant quarter. This chic utopia invites you to discover the culinary excellence of two superb restaurants, each presenting a [...]

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Nautical Nights in Chelsea: Setting Sail for Sophistication at The Anchor

Jade — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 09:34:14 +0000

In the heart of London’s Chelsea, where sophistication meets serenity, lies a hidden gem known as The Anchor bar within the renowned Chelsea Harbour Hotel. Here, an evening of transcendent allure awaits as you embark on a maritime-inspired journey like no other. The Anchor, with its interiors reminiscent of a classic yacht, encapsulates an atmosphere of elegance, captivating guests seeking refuge from the urban bustle. The unrivalled view of the serene Chelsea Harbour waters transforms the evening into a poetic spectacle. The moonlight, casting its gentle glow upon the tranquil waters, turns the panorama into a shimmering masterpiece. Each ripple becomes a note, harmonising with the rhythm of the night and the live jazz melodies that fill the air. At The Anchor, the fusion of music and culinary excellence is showcased during their refined Jazz Night. This stylish event transforms the dining experience into a beautiful symphony for the senses. As the jazz trio graces the air with soulful tunes, each note becomes a rhythmical companion to the exquisite flavours served on the table. The velvety ambiance, stirred by the live performance, creates an enchanting backdrop for an evening of culinary indulgence. Every dish, every cocktail, meticulously crafted and inspired [...]

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Canvas of Culinary Verse: Brushstrokes of Flavour at The Chinese Cricket Club

Jade — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 11:41:44 +0000

Set in the heart of London’s vibrant cityscape, where culinary diversity and artistic expression flow freely, the Chinese Cricket Club shines as a gastronomic sanctuary. Drawing inspiration from a broad spectrum of culinary traditions across the nation, the Chinese Cricket Club presents an exotic selection of dishes that not only honour the past but also paint a modern portrait. In the constellation of menu highlights, the distinctive Smoked Peking Duck emerges as a culinary triumph, weaving a captivating tale of authenticity, dedication, and meticulous precision. As it gracefully arrives at your table beneath an ornate cloche, the dish transforms into an awe-inspiring masterpiece, inviting you on a sensory journey that transcends the boundaries of mere dining. As the cloche is lifted, a mesmerising aromatic cloud escapes and dissipates. The duck, accompanied by crisp cucumber, fresh spring onions, rich hoisin sauce, sweet pineapple, and delicate pancakes, emerges from this playful mist. The visual spectacle that unfolds is a testament to the restaurant’s mastery of both artful presentation and culinary excellence. The symphony continues with the Tiger Chilli Crispy Beef. This dish is a canvas of contrasts, skilfully uniting tender, succulent meat with a flawlessly crisp exterior. The result is a harmonious [...]

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Luxury Hospitality Magazine speaks with Chef Daisuke Hayashi’s about Roketsu Restaurant

Anna Startin — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 14:38:51 +0000

Firstly, thank you for taking the time to speak with us, could you please tell us about your journey into the industry? When I was a child, I went fishing every week with my father and we would cook the fish that we caught. It was here that I started to enjoy cooking and learnt how to cook fresh ingredients. How long have you been working at the Roketsu Restaurant, and what do you love most about it? I’ve been working at Roketsu from the very beginning. I decided I wanted to open Roketsu and offer authentic Japanese cuisine abroad providing guests with an authentic Japanese dining experience. What is your signature cooking style? My cooking style is one that expresses the seasons by making the most of the seasonal ingredients. The heart of Kaiseki cuisine is the Dashi (stock) which is made from dried fish, and it is this that is considered the most important element of Japanese cuisine. Where is the restaurant located and does the menu focus on traditional Japanese Cuisine? Roketsu is based in Marylebone, London, and focuses on traditional Japanese Cuisine. What is Kaiseki dining? Kaiseki dining is a meal in which seasonal ingredients are [...]

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Editors Review – St James’s Hotel and Club, Mayfair

Anna Startin — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 14:23:50 +0000

St. James’s Hotel and Club is a 5 star hidden gem, tucked away in one of London’s most desirable addresses. A short walk from the shops of Mayfair, Piccadilly and the theatres of the West End, the hotel is in an ideal location for exploring the sights of the capital. St. James’s has 60 luxurious rooms and suites available to guests, ranging from deluxe and executive rooms to the fine splendour of the various private suites and an entire floor taken up by the Penthouse suite. The staff on arrival were very welcoming and this continued throughout our stay, always being greeted by the door staff, whether coming or going. The courteousness was repeated at reception and ensured a smooth check-in and once the formalities were complete, we were personally shown to our room. We stayed in a superior room with bespoke furniture including a queen-size bed with Hypnos mattress, desk area and comfy chairs with coffee table. There are also the usual comforts, safe, minibar, large LCD television, SMEG coffee maker and tea facilities. The bathroom is decorated with black and cream tiles and shiny black vanity worktop, with complimentary Penhaligon toiletries, and had a bath with rain-forest shower [...]

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Galvin at Windows Taste of Christmas Menu!

Anna Startin — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 11:17:33 +0000

If you are looking for a special experience for your Christmas celebrations, then look no further! Galvin at Windows is situated in the heart of Mayfair where the iconic London setting frames the restaurant. The restaurant is located on the 28th floor of the Hilton Hotel Park Lane, just a stone’s throw away from Hyde Park and Winter Wonderland. The restaurant has an exclusive view of Buckingham Palace, where you can quite literally see into his Royal Highness’ back garden! The decor is modern haute cuisine, with all tables admiring the capital’s skyline. The panoramic view of London meant the restaurant was flooded with natural light, providing a floating sensation! Dark mahogany wood, unique lighting, and strong features such as a wine wall and abstract art added to the décor, creating a welcoming, fine-dining experience. The restaurant was decorated with beautiful Christmas baubles, to add to festivities. The décor was accompanied by calming music which allowed me to relax and enjoy the experience. The taste of Christmas lunch menu by Head Chef Marc Hardiman indulges you into the Christmas spirit by offering a unique selection of starters, mains, and deserts, all of which are skilfully crafted with fresh, high-quality ingredients. [...]

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A Sizzling Sensation; Kensington’s Traditional Culinary Treasure at KGK

Jade — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 09:48:27 +0000

Step into a world of gastronomic exploration at KGK, a discreet treasure gracefully positioned in the heart of Kensington where tradition meets innovation. Within, the decor unveils a subdued elegance that effortlessly melds sophistication with a tranquil comfort. This intricate harmony lays the foundation for a journey that goes beyond the ordinary, where the atmosphere is animated by personal tabletop grills, echoing the ancient rhythms of Korean BBQ traditions. Transition seamlessly into the role of both curator and epicurean architect and take centre stage with the KGK King Kalbi, a beef short rib adorned in the secret elixir of the house. In this flavorful ritual, Bulgogi emerges as the spirited protagonist in this gastronomic theatre, showcasing the essence of Korean BBQ with its captivating presence. The grilling experience becomes an interactive symphony, allowing you to orchestrate a harmonious dance of flavours and aromas, making every bite a celebration of time-honored culinary practices. To further enrich your culinary journey, explore the understated luxury of Japanese Wagyu rib eye steak, introducing a touch of opulence to the narrative. Simultaneously, a diverse ensemble of tiger prawns and seasonal vegetables awaits those seeking non-meat options, ensuring KGK’s culinary offerings remain inclusive and satisfying. And [...]

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Editors Review – The Prince Akatoki, London

Anna Startin — Tue, 28 Nov 2023 15:54:17 +0000

As one of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World, The Prince Akatoki, London provides a superb location from where one can visit the iconic sights of the City. Converted from seven Grade 2 listed Georgian townhouses and two mews homes, The Prince Akatoki, London (formerly The Arch London) contains 82 guest rooms and suites, a small gym, meeting room, lounge and bar and the Japanese cuisine inspired Tokii Restaurant. The 5-Star boutique Hotel is situated a short walk from the majestic Marble Arch and verdant Hyde Park. Despite having an 18th century exterior, internally there is a very modern minimalist feel, accentuated by neutral colours, light wood décor and a calm serene ambience. The minimalist décor is a continuous theme into the bedrooms. The hotel has a variety of rooms; Superior, Deluxe, Executive and Suites, to suit your needs. The rooms are large with impressively subtle no-fuss décor. To one end of our Superior room was a queen sized bed with elaborate headboard and intricate lighting. With the exception of the large flat screen tv and the ceramic tea cups, all other amenities are hidden away, including mini bar, safe and Nespresso machine. The wardrobe contained the usual [...]

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Luxury Hospitality Magazine speaks with newly appointed Executive Head Chef at The Grand, York, Kevin Bonello

Francesca — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 11:57:54 +0000

Firstly, congratulations on the new role, what do you love the most about The Grand, York? Thank you – I’m very excited about this new chapter in my career. The Grand Hotel has a lot to offer and the people who work at the hotel are amazing. As I have progressed through my career, I have come to realise that it is the people who make the place. I love the history of the hotel – there are so many stories! I also really love the city of York and everything that there is to discover within reach of the hotel; there truly is something for everyone. Talk us through your journey into the industry; did you always know that this was the career for you? From a young age, I was always behind my Granny and Mother in the kitchen. We all loved to entertain and cook. As a child, I wanted to be a pilot or an engineer but at 16 I did a summer job in the kitchen and loved it. I did half a day in pilot training and decided it wasn’t me, so I went back to the kitchen. I never looked back. I learnt [...]

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Review: Lions, Libations, and Culinary Ascension: Heliot Steak House’s Balcony Bar Roars with Flavour

Jade — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 13:37:26 +0000

Located in the vibrant heart of London’s Leicester Square, Heliot Steak House stands as a culinary destination that consistently delivers an exceptional dining experience. Named after the illustrious Claire Heliot, the legendary lion tamer, this distinguished establishment seamlessly blends culinary mastery, expansive views of the main casino floor from the balcony bar, and personalised attention to create moments that linger in the memory. At the forefront of Heliot Steak House’s success is a visionary head chef, a true master of flavours, whose passion for food is evident in every dish presented. With a keen understanding of diverse flavour profiles, an unwavering commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients, and an inventive approach to culinary artistry, Ioannis Grammenos crafts a symphony of tastes and textures that captivate the senses and leave an indelible impression on guests. The Balcony Bar at Heliot Steak House offers an enchanting experience, providing panoramic views of the dynamic casino floor below. As guests savour their meals or enjoy a refreshing drink, the ambiance adds an extra layer of excitement to the dining affair. Heliot Steak House is more than just a restaurant; it is a place where moments are thoughtfully curated to resonate deeply with each guest. [...]

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