LONDON’S HOTEL CAFÉ ROYAL OFFERS A TRUE TASTE OF REGAL GLAMOUR
words by ANOUK WOUDT
Located in the bustling heart of London’s West End, HOTEL CAFÉ ROYAL puts you at the centre of the British capital’s most famed attractions, allowing you easy access to a fully-fledged London experience. Born as a reincarnation of the iconic 17th-century landmark Café Royal, the building captures the architectural and historical elegance of the original, carefully reinterpreting the space for a modern context, while maintaining its charm. With diverse culinary experiences and bars situated on location, it’s a haven of luxury, each corner brimming with regal glamour.
all images courtesy of HOTEL CAFÉ ROYAL
Set on the iconic Regent Street, a stay at the Hotel Café Royal immediately immerses you into the cultural centre of London, placing you right in the action on one of the capital’s most historically rich streets. Transforming from a modest wine store to a Parisian-style brasserie, and now to a high-class hotel, fit for its cast of famed patrons that range from royalty to celebrity.
Through the guidance of architect Sir David Chipperfield, the hotel underwent a significant renovation from 2008 to 2012. Balancing his modern approach with the hotel’s innate grandeur, the space aimed to honour its legendary space. Minimal aesthetics serve to highlight the antiquated materials and subtle decorative elements that combine in a blend of opulence and simplicity.
Hailed as a pinnacle of dining to match its hospitality status, the hotel also offers a myriad of eatery experiences to keep your taste buds satiated. The shining star, Café Royal Grill, has long been admired for its acclaimed afternoon tea, while also expanding to a lunch and dinner hotspot. Holding the word ‘grill’ true to its name, the menu highlights a selection of grilled meats and fish that define its character, while also delicately weaving in elevated bites of steak tartare and lobster bisque. The house specialty, the chicken and bacon pie, pays a tribute to its English heritage, combining a UK staple and dousing it in a rich black truffle sauce and a side of classic mashed potatoes.
Overlooking the Regent street, there is a second dining option led by acclaimed chef Alex Dilling for a more sophisticated palette. With two Michelin stars, its meticulous tasting menus pair beautifully with its intimate dining spac eto immerse you into its elevated interpretation of contemporary French cuisine.
Following your meal, the hotel invites you to Cakes & Bubbles, a conceptual eatery dreamt from the mind of Albert Adrià. Pairing elegant desserts with a glass of spritzy champagne, it promises you refined indulgence that feels exciting and new. The Green Bar also incorporates an imaginative twist, transforming Hotel Café Royal’s historic cocktail culture with the aid of a modern lens. Absinthe is heavily features, spearheading the bar’s signature name, while also expanding to newer interpretations of the Café Royal Cocktail Book of 1937.
