Dine Like Royalty At London’s Chicest, And Only, Super Boutique Hotel

Tennis enthusiasts and appreciators alike may already be missing the pomp and circumstance surrounding Wimbledon and its celebrity packed royal box. Graced by Princess Kate, and many more, the matches were a celebration for all. Yet for many Wimbledon was just the most recent event in what has been a banner year for celebrations in London and all have involved the Royal Family. With a springtime coronation ceremony, celebrating like a king is a trend that may just… continue.

Food has always been a key part of any royal celebration. Wimbledon’s tradition of serving strawberries and cream stems from a popular rumor from the late 1800’s that George V himself kicked off the tradition. While that may not be entirely true, special dishes are created to commemorate every coronation. Queen Elizabeth’s signature dish, coronation chicken, or curried chicken salad, has been a favorite since 1953. This year’s dish was a nod to newer food trends and the coronation quiche was born complete with broad beans, spinach and local cheddar. While the celebrations have technically passed, for those who know where to look eating like a king, or queen, has never been easier.

The Londoner is a 5 star hotel set in the heart of bustling Leicester Square and may just be the best kept secret in the West End. The 16 story building often hosts visiting actors, musicians and athletes who take advantage of the carefully curated 350 bedrooms and suites. The “Super Boutique” hotel contains five restaurant and bar options, some only for guests, and even a stunning ballroom that can hold up to 850 people yet still feels shockingly intimate. A subterranean wellness retreat and spa manages to be inviting and warm even on the coldest days. Soho and Covent Garden are only a short walk away but it may just be too tempting to stay in and sample all of the food and drink offerings on hand.

Start the day at Whitcomb’s which offers a mix of cozy French Mediterranean cuisine, sensational pastries and locally sourced British specialties like meat from family butcher’s Aldens and more. The breakfast menu is filled with simple yet elegant dishes prepared to order like a crépe soufflée with Chantilly cream or a classic English Breakfast. The locally sourced eggs are some of the freshest and tastiest around. Dinner is not to be missed with an extensive wine list, handmade pastas, the freshest fish and chargrilled meats cooked simply and elegantly. Enjoy the seasonal terrace with some bubbly to enjoy a classic London summer aperitif.

8 at The Londoner is a rooftop Japanese style izakaya bar with a boutique twist. The sensational views are only elevated by the inventive cocktail menu and tasty small plates meant to be shared. Located on the 8th floor, the three chic yet informal spaces offers some of the best ways to catch up before or after a show with weekend DJ sets and an omakase lunch menu. An impressive sake menu and Japanese whisky list pair easily with dishes like king prawns wrapped in phyllo and tataki with black truffle ponzu. Finish with a barrel aged old fashioned cocktail featuring Yamazaki 12 year, Hibiki Harmony and Whistle Pig 6 year rye for good measure. Or the signature mocktail, a calamansi mojito, for a savory and sweet finish.

In the mood for a pint or an expertly mixed gin and tonic? Head down to Joshua’s Tavern which is an homage to former Leicester Square resident, Sir Joshua Reynolds. The 18th century portrait artist would feel right at home in this neighborhood spot, easily accessible to hotel guests and visitors, which serves over 50 types of gin including their “Gintonica” menu and a rotating selection of beers on tap. Some classic tavern bites are on offer including prosciutto, pecorino and truffle popcorn which comes in handy after a round or two.

A proper champagne toast deserves a proper setting and The Stage is that and more. The Champagne bar delivers with a daytime menu that includes everything from morning breakfast and pastries and optional champagne pairings to afternoon tea service, champagne filled or not. Evenings see live musical acts which set the tone for a bevy of champagne cocktails or a cheeky glass from one of 35 champagnes available. The creative and tasty of list of champagne cocktails include versions ranging from saffron gin with ginger and lemongrass tea to a riff on a Bellini.

A day at the spa isn’t complete without that well-fed glow and Refuel is an obvious stop. Everything from collagen filled vitality shots, balancing tisanes and Ayurvedic breakfast bowls are an easy choice to keep your system going and ready to enjoy London’s offerings. The Inner Peace smoothie may not come with a guarantee but it’s certainly a good start.

The final dining establishment at The Londoner is for guests only. The Residence is made up of three rooms: The Drawing Room offers bites and non-alcoholic beverages complimentarily, day and night. The two other guest-only spaces, the Y Bar and Whisky Room, offer a secluded escape for guests to let down their guard over a cocktail or pour with a little guidance from some onsite experts for the perfect night cap.