Constantly evolving, London’s hospitality scene always has something new to offer, even to those of us who visit the city frequently. From cosy bistros to fine dining experiences; luxury hotels focused on sustainability to cosy hotels with amazing views, this is a guide to some of the hottest restaurants, bars and hotels to visit during your next trip to London.
Restaurants
HUMO London
Photo: Bacchus
HUMO
Well deserving of its Michelin star, HUMO breaks the menu down by level of fire used to cook each course. Ignite, Smoke, Flame, and Embers. I opted for the trout sashimi which acts as the perfect start – refreshing, and a great dish to cleanse the palate. Mushrooms followed featuring a gorgeous mix of lion’s mane, mousseron, and an Arlington white yolk. The Orkney scallops grilled in direct contact with whisky barrels were sublime. The standout, however, was the Kagoshima A4 black cattle sirloin. The beef melted at a touch and was cooked to perfection. The wine pairing offered with each course has been carefully curated to match and enhance each dish. A refreshing dessert closed of a fantastic combination of dishes, each one playing a crucial role along the adventure of dining at HUMO. If you’re looking for a true gastronomical experience and an adventure in dining, HUMO is not to be missed.
ALBA
Walking into ALBA feels like opening your balcony door to the Amalfi coast. The space is gorgeous, with large windows that fill the room with natural light, olive trees scattered across the restaurant, and fresh vegetables and fish laid out in front of a large open kitchen. While the space is breathtaking, the food is what will stick with you, it certainly did for me. Before delving into each dish, let’s touch on the balance of ALBA. While many expect Italian cuisine to sometimes feel somewhat heavy, every dish at ALBA brings balance, making you feel satisfied yet light and content, even as you finish up dessert. The standout dish was also our first – the beef carpaccio is rolled at the table and features fresh arugula and chunks of artichoke, sprinkled with Parmesan and large slices of truffle. A dish that is, as mentioned, beautifully balanced. The burrata was one of the softest and fluffiest I’ve had while the truffle and cream Tagliolini was light, creamy, and subtle. Last but certainly not least, the pistachio tiramisu is a fantastic take on the classic – and one you’ll definitely be back for. ALBA is the spot for an elevated brunch, a lunch date, or even an early dinner before heading out for the night.
ALBA London
Photo: Ben Carpenter
Henri Bistro
A cosy bistro with an extensive spirits and wine selection, Henri is the perfect spot for an elevated dining experience, while keeping things casual and comfortable. The menu offers a wide variety of options, be it seafood, meat or vegetarian options. The scallops were fantastic, the octopus well-balanced, and the ribeye cooked to perfection. After dinner, move over to the bar and choose your closing tipple from a selection of whisky, tequila and rum, or opt for a classic cocktail instead. If you’re looking for a relaxing evening of great food and tasty cocktails away from the grandiose and noise of Soho, this is your spot.
Hotels
1 Hotel Mayfair
Photo: Bacchus
1 Hotel – Mayfair
First on the list and for good reason, 1 Hotel Mayfair is a much-needed calm, natural haven in the center of London. Known for their sustainable initiatives, 1 Hotel Mayfair ties nature into every corner of the hotel, seamlessly, with over 1,000 plants across the property. 1 Hotel features a fantastic spa and wellness centre, and some great options to dine before heading out for the evening. The lively Dover Yard bar (one of my personal favorites in London) offers an extensive whisky and spirits collection, and an immersive cocktail menu. In fact, the new cocktail menu, Regenerative Forces, has just launched, which draws inspiration from the restorative forces that drive nature, fire, water, earth and wind. Last but not least, make sure to dine at the iconic Dove Tale restaurant, led by 2-Michelin Star chef, Tom Sellers. The raw bar offers fresh oysters and caviar, alongside various types British seafood, while the Land section of the menu gives the carnivores among us some fantastic choices. Sharing plates are also offered alongside fresh pasta dishes. The ingredients are all locally sourced, with the fruit and vegetables are sourced within a four hour radius of London.
BoTree Hotel
Photo: BoTree
BoTree Hotel
A lovely independent property, BoTree brings guest experience and sustainability to the forefront. The hotel integrates sustainability into the design, in the materials used in the rooms, and in LAVO, the sleek Italian restaurant with West Coast vibes attached to the hotel. The lack of a classic reception allows the team to create a closer connection with the guests, which I felt throughout my whole stay at BoTree, with hosts always there to assist with recommendations or any other matter at hand. Located in Marylebone, the hotel is also at a perfect location to easily step out and explore some of London’s most famous neighborhoods. The rooms themselves are full of personality, with brights colors blending in with great woodwork, cheerful artwork, and modern furniture. The rooms make one feel both at home yet still on vacation in this vibrant neighborhood of London.
Treehouse Hotel London
Credit: Simon Brown Photography
Treehouse Hotel
The Treehouse hotel brings one back to childhood days spent in a treehouse, albeit – a much more elevated one. Natural colors, wood designs and green all make Treehouse a relaxing, elevated yet budget-friendly option for your next visit to London. At the top of the hotel one can find The Nest, which offers a gorgeous view of London over a cocktail or a coffee. One floor below guests can find Madera, a Mexican restaurant offering a large selection of Mexican classics and sharing plates. Should you feel like venturing out, the surrounding neighborhood has a lot to offer in terms of food and drink, yet not nearly as busy as Mayfair or Soho.
There you have it – whether you’re on a budget, in town for business, or celebrating a special occasion and wish to pamper yourself – the options above should give everyone a fantastic experience in London.