Bar La Rampa

Bar La Rampa, sitting snug on Market Place, is a Cuban delight, celebrating the heritage and culture of 1950s Havana. Entering to the sound of live Cuban music, you’d be forgiven for forgetting you were thirty seconds off of Oxford Street. The Havana theme really shines through in the small plates menu, developed by Ana Gonçalves and Zijun Meng of TĀTĀ Eatery, their reimagined Cuban dishes bringing Latin America to London in a stylish but authentic way. Bar La Rampa also prides itself on its extensive, rum heavy, cocktail menu, often featuring Eminente, a special new Cuban rum imagined by Cesar Marti, the youngest Cuban Maestro Ronero. 

The Elote Corn Ribs with vegan chipotle mayo and lime is a simple yet immensely flavoursome dish, and a must try on the menu. This is what Bar La Rampa does so well: simple dishes with bold flavours and an almost addictive quality. The moreish devil on the menu is the seemingly unassuming ‘Corn and Beans’. Though it may seem to simply be a black bean dip with tortilla chips, do not underestimate this dish. It’s less of a ‘sharing’ plate and more of a ‘fight to the death to get the last scoopful’ plate. Even if you’re only picking up a couple of cocktails, get the Corn and Beans: you won’t regret it. The Sandwich Cubano, a twist on a classic Cuban sandwich, is again a flavoursome treat. There’s both a classic and a vegetarian option - so you won’t be caught short if you don’t eat meat.

When it comes to cocktails, Bar La Rampa is not playing around. Not to be missed are the ‘Hemingway Special (Papa Doble)’, a sweet and sour daiquiri said to be the author’s personal favourite, the ‘El Presidente’, reminiscent of a smooth Negroni with a bolshy rum undertone, and the ‘Mango Colada’, a refreshing and fruity cocktail for those with a sweeter tooth. 

Bar La Rampa is certainly modern and stylish, however, the live Cuban music from the house band playing almost every night reminds you of where it all began: Havana. If you’re looking for big flavours in food and cocktails with a bouncy atmosphere, Bar La Rampa is the place to be.

Address:  7-8 Market Place, W1W 8AG
Telephone: 020 3840 5555
Website: www.barlarampa.com 

Lincoln Plaza

Hilton hotel lovers and London travellers can rejoice together at the chance of spending your time in the city at the Lincoln Plaza.  Settled humbly in the Canary Wharf, you’ll find it quite stress-free to navigate London after exiting. A DLR Station is a mere three-minute walk away while taxis and other modes of public transportation are easily caught. Lincoln Plaza takes their position in London seriously and offers its guests a charming place to rest their heads. 

Canary Wharf holds a special place to London as one of the busiest docks in the world. Goods are constantly being transported in and out; the process is quite a sight to see. While the area is filled with giant warehouses and industry buildings, it also has modern upgrades like bars, shops, and parks. As such, Canary Wharf is a popular area for locals and visitors alike. 

The industrial theme of Canary Wharf found its way inside the Lincoln Plaza. You’ll be instantly captivated by the tasteful interior design mix of contemporary and classical featured in the main lobby and shared spaces of the facilities. The rooms are no exceptions though; you’ll notice a blend of functional and fashionable neutral tones will provide a calming environment while the comfort of the Hilton serenity bed will effortlessly lull you to sleep. Additional amenities include Wi Fi, 24-hour fitness centre, pool, sauna, and scheduled fitness classes.

After you’ve fit a great night’s sleep and your daily workout in, head to the onsite dining options to replenish your body.  Lincoln Plaza’s standout eatery is Mr Todiwala’s Kitchen, a Pan-Indian—inspired restaurant headed by celebrity chef Cyrus Todiwala. Smaller, casual eats can be purchased at the Food Store Grocer or the Food Store Restaurant; both fabulous for the everyday meal need. Nightlife enthusiasts can enjoy a creative cocktail at either the Food Store Bar or Jack Speak Bar. Lincoln Plaza has everything set up to ensure you don’t have to leave if you don’t want to.

But, if you do happen to have an urge to get out into London, which is definitely recommended, Lincoln Plaza can help you plan your destinations. The hotel sits in a very convenient location: 15 minutes to the city centre via train, walking distance to the Canary Wharf Shopping Centre, and more. Location is everything and the Lincoln Plaza has it. Whether business, tourism, or just sheer fun is the reason for your travels to London, allow Lincoln Plaza to be your host.

Address: 2 Lincoln Plaza, Isle of Dogs, London E14 9BD
Phone: 020 7987 1157

108 Brasserie

The chic residential area of Marylebone hides away a delicious secret. 108 Brasserie is located just off Marylebone High Street at the top of Marylebone Lane. Aiming to bring the Marylebone neighbourhood some hearty yet uncomplicated food combinations, 108 Brasserie serves dishes for all three meals in a tranquil environment meant to spark culinary creativity. This hip space features two distinguished seating areas: the bar and the dining room.

The bar presents a flavorful and extensive drink menu coupled with small plate offerings. Whether wine, cocktails, or beer strikes your tipple fancy, you’re sure to have plenty to choose from. Plus, those looking for non-alcoholic alternatives without sacrificing taste or quality should check out the Juicery menu for enriching and nutritious freshly juiced blends. 

Using their spirits knowledge, 108 Brasserie crafted their very own gin aptly called 108 Gin. It is distilled in-house and endearingly nicknamed “Isabella” by the staff. Guests can engage with the distillation process, ask questions, and even sample a taste neat or in a cocktail. The gin is rich in bright, light botanicals with a smooth, simple finish.  Take a bottle for the road to relive your time here. 108 Brasserie sure does seem to have it all. 

For the full dining experience, ask to be seated in the Brasserie. Here, you’ll discover a menu filled with seasonal, modern British and international dishes created with the freshest ingredients on the market. Stop in for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and/or dessert. From eggs benedict three ways to intricate fish-focused plates to decadent chocolate indulgences, 108 Brasserie can cater to your hunger and cravings without a second thought.

Reservations are of course encouraged, though 108 Brasserie will do their best to seat every pop in. 108 Brasserie has brought to life a friendly, relaxing atmosphere for everyday gatherings around food and drinks. Just remember to ask for Isabella by name.

Address: 108 Marylebone Lane, London W1U 2QE
Telephone: +44 207 969 3900

Burns Night at Duke's Hotel

“Fair fa' your honest, sonsie face,
Great chieftain o the puddin'-race!”

In case your Gaelic isn’t as fluent as mine, a translate of the rousing opening lines of Burns’ “Address to a Haggis” is: 

“Good luck to you and your honest, plump face,
Great chieftain of the sausage race!”

Duke’s hotel, one of my favourite Mayfair hotels, has some lovely treats with which to banish the January Blues, and celebrate the birthday of the Bard of Ayrshire, Robert Burns. Duke’s has teamed up with The Exceptional Scotch Whisky and cigar makers Hunters and Frankau to put together some great fun for Burns Night 2020. Hunters and Frankau are the exclusive UK distributor for all Havana cigars in the UK.

On 25th January, birthday of the Bard, they are hosting a Burns Night supper in GBR (Great British Restaurant) – the restaurant at Duke’s. Their famous Head Bartender, Alessandro Palazzi, has created a new take on an Old Fashioned. The inspiration was from a memory of homemade boozy cherries in his grandmother’s larder, he told me. The central spirit is The Exceptional Blended Malt, one of the featured whiskies of the night. Alessandro muddles orange peel at the same time as the brown sugar before adding the sugar syrup and the bitters that he makes himself, the whisky and then finally a garnish of two glossy cherries in Kirsch.

Once you’ve supped on your Old Fashioned to the sounds of a live Bagpiper, supper awaits. Executive Head Chef, Nigel Mendham, has created a four course menu to enjoy paired with counterpart whiskies. It gives a contemporary twist on Scottish dishes to make them light and delicious, without losing the traditional taste elements that make up a proper Burns’ Night supper. Alongside the haggis, of which I am very fond, the salmon from loch Duart is amazing and the cranachan is divine.

For cigar and whisky fans, there are two whisky and cigar pairing evenings on Wednesday 23 and Thursday 24 January in the Drawing Room at Duke’s. Starting at 6pm with Alessandro’s fabulous Old Fashioned, there follow three expressions of The Exceptional whiskies and canapés – the Grain, the Malt and the Blend. Each is excellent and beautifully balanced, the Grain having marmalade and crème brulee flavours, the Malt being a fuller bodied whisky with lots of dried fruit flavours and the Blend a perfect balance of young and old whiskies with complex fruit and oaky flavours. However cold it might be, Duke’s cosy walled cigar terrace is always kept toasty with heaters and snuggly blankets so you can enjoy a Monte Cristo Number 2 in comfort. The whisky does its bit too, warming you from the inside out.

I think these are great value for an evening of fun at Duke’s. The Burns supper is £65 per person and the whisky, canape and cigar nights are £55. Worth every penny.

Address: Duke’s London, 35 St. James’s Place, London SW1A 1NY
Telephone: +44 (0)207 491 4840

By Caroline Hampden-White

Dinner, by Heston

Deciding this restaurants name came with a bit of research and originality stemming from not only the word but also what they serve. Dinner is best known as a main meal eaten around midday or in the evening that can be formal or casual. Before affordable candles were made available and gaslight was invented, dinner was taken at midday before night blanketed the sky. Depending on an individual’s location and profession, dinner was still up to their discretion and even today dinner might be served midday and onwards. Thus, Dinner by Heston Blumenthal earned its proper and quirky name. Created by Heston Blumenthal himself, Dinner has earned recognition for both its London and Melbourne locations.

Blumenthal is a well-known and respected British celebrity chef for those who are unaware of his reputation. Before embarking on Dinner, Blumenthal became a proprietor for the critically acclaimed The Fat Duck—one of four Great Britain restaurants to earn three Michelin stars. With his rich and successful culinary background, Blumenthal always takes a scientific method to his food and its this fascination with historic gastronomy that lead to the opening of his first restaurant, Dinner, in 2011.

Blumenthal and co-chef Ashley Palmer-Watts drafted a menu whose discoveries and fascinations blend historic culinary approaches with the ever-evolving modern day methodologies. Their research spanned from 14th century cookbooks such as those used by royal chefs to Lewis Carol’s flights of fancy to utilizing food historians to tapping into the world of the British Library. The resulting menu entices and excites diners with an experience unlike any other.

Noting the food needed a compatible dining atmosphere, Blumenthal conceived an interior suggestive of a subtle, elegant portrait. The floor-to-ceiling walls give guests a clear view of the kitchen while the ivory painted walls sport custom-made porcelain wall sconces. The guests also can enjoy uninterrupted views of Hyde Park.

Dinner by Heston Blumenthal has the looks, the reputation, and continuously happy diners; it’s truly the full package deal. Get your reservation now.

Facebook // Twitter

Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park

66 Knightsbridge,
London SW1X 7LA

Phone: +44 (0)20 7201 3833

The Chesterfield, Mayfair

Merging comfort with luxury, The Chesterfield Mayfair London embraces its prime location in Mayfair with its exemplary facilities and offerings to give guests the best experience possible. The Chesterfield is the perfect venue for all occasions big or small.

You won’t regret a stay at The Chesterfield. Choose from 94 deluxe guest rooms and 13 extravagant suites. Each room captures any mood that takes your fancy: bold, whimsical, exotic, elegant, or cozy. The furnishings and decorations are specific to each room leaving each stay a completely different and exciting experience.

Aside from fabulously arranged rooms, the Chesterfield offers some mighty tasty options. Known for their Afternoon Tea, the Chesterfield is a member of the Tea Guild. This unique and prestigious organization represents outlets dedicated to brewing and serving tea to the high standards desired by the United Kingdom Tea Council. Indulge in homemade baked goods and delicious tea. For a more filling meal make your way over to Butler’s Restaurant. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, fine British dining, grand banqueting, Afternoon Tea, and a light pre-theatre menu. Wine lovers will be in awe over the extensive list of vintages. Treat yourself to some drinks at the Terrace Bar for perfect way to unwind after a long day complete with a soothing pianist.

The Chesterfield has location, accommodation, and wonderful cuisine choices so make sure you book your stay!

Address: 35 Charles Street, Mayfair, London, W1J 5EB
Telephone: +44 20 7491 2622
Website

Jumeirah Carlton Tower

One of London’s best hotels, no really Jumeirah Carlton Tower was bestowed five glistening stars, sits like a beacon in the city’s central area. On Sloane Street, the hub of Knightsbridge, Jumeirah Carlton not only offers 216 luxurious guest rooms but also one of London’s most exclusive health clubs, The Peak Health & Spa. Whether you’re staying overnight or having yourself a little pampering session, Jumeirah Carlton is the place to be. Plus, Hyde Park and the city’s finest shopping at Sloane Streets boutiques, Harrods and Harvey Nichols are all within easy walking distance. City life, shopping, and relaxation all contained in one reasonably sized area—what could be better?

Well that’s just it, it does get better. Aside from incredible rooms and prime time location, Jumeirah Carlton Tower also offers guests a 20 meter indoor swimming pool, three restaurants, a golf simulator featuring 30 of the world’s greatest courses, and extensive fitness facilities. Everything seems pretty self-explanatory except the restaurants, so let’s delve into the fine dining options.

Matching the majestic views with healthy foods, The Club Room offers a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere up on the 9th floor. Order some light meals, nutritious snacks, or a lunch buffet with a fruity cocktail or smoothie while gazing off into the mesmerizing panoramic city view. The all day, all-around Chinoiserie is a tranquil setting for breakfast, a happening spot for afternoon tea, and distinctive venue for nighttime ventures. Drawing in a diverse mix of guests, Chinoiserie is the perfect spot for casual conversation and watching life go by. Earning three AA Rosettes and becoming an iconic restaurant in London, The Rib Room Bar & Restaurant holds onto its 50-year history with a 21st Century flare. Here, you’ll be treated to the best of traditional British cuisine using only fresh, seasonal produce and a choice from a collection of over 450 wines and champagnes.

So really, what more could you ask from a hotel?

Address: On Cadogan Place, Knightsbridge, London SW1X 9PY, UK
Telephone: +44 20 7235 1234
Website

Aloft London Excel

If you find yourself at the ExCeL International Convention Center and need a place to lay your head for a night or two, consider staying the conveniently located Aloft London Excel—the only hotel in ExCeL London directly connected to the convention center. Aloft sits next to the Prince Regent DLR station and just minutes from the London City Airport, Canary Wharf, and the O2 Arena.

This select-service hotel offers a sassy and refreshing accommodation alternative for both the super serious business traveler and the laid-back leisure vacationer. Aloft is urban-influenced and effortlessly chic providing guests the perfect blend of relaxation and entertaining amenities. Choose one of three room styles: Aloft Rooms, Urban Rooms, or Savvy Suites. Each room comes with guaranteed comfort and basic living necessities. Guests will find a variety of venues for various times of day. Get your sweat on in the large indoor pool or gym. Enroll your child (aged 2-12) in Camp Aloft to keep them busy and tuckered out. Mosey on down to the Docksider Restaurant or Re:mix Lounge when your tummy starts grumbling. Sip on an adult beverage while listening to some live music. Aloft has it all making leaving the hotel a hard choice, but you’ll want to check out and fully embrace the East London Scene.

Pack up the kids and the family pet and enjoy a getaway at Aloft.

Address: One Eastern Gateway, Royal Victoria Dock, London, EN, E16 1FR
Telephone: +44 20 3203 0700
Website