TASTE TRENDS
Dining in London is an exhilarating experience, to say the least. While the city boasts veritable experiences like traditional afternoon teas and British classic fare, it has expanded its horizon to progressive cuisines like Indian fusion, Ethiopian and modern middle eastern. But if that’s too experimental for your palate, London houses 67 Michelin-starred restaurants on its grid, ranging from one-star to two- and three-star outlets like the glorious Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, which has held three stars since 2001. While Michelin-starred restaurants are rightly considered to be a hit on the pocket, there are all sorts of Michelin eateries here that range from pubs, classic British hotspots to elusive sushi bars. With two Michelin-stars each, try Dinner by Heston Blumenthal for classic British recipes with a modern twist at Hyde Park; Umu for its ‘kaiseki tasting menu’ with eight courses at Mayfair; and Kitchen Table at Bubbledogs at Goodge Street that serves ‘dogs and champers’ or well, hotdogs and champagne.
The new wave of Indian restaurants in London is another trend to watch out for. This home of chicken tikka masala has forayed far and wide; perhaps even overtaking the origin country for its version of Indian food. Going beyond rice and curry are these restaurants — Kahani at Sloane Square for innovative cocktails and British-Indian dishes; Flora Indica at Old Brompton road that takes diners on a culinary journey across India; and Bombay Bustle at Maddox Street that evokes the story of the Indian railway network through its endearing menu.
If your taste in Asian food strays more towards the east, further from India, London’s quirky restaurants will set you off on a gastronomical adventure. Flesh & Buns, a Japanese izakaya restaurant and bar with outposts at Covent Garden and Oxford Circus serves up the likes of rabbit katsu and pulled beef cheek for meat enthusiasts. MẮM (pronounced like mum) on All Saints Road showcases a whole new side of Vietnamese cuisine. Their signature papaya cocktail is one to try. However, London’s latest pan-Asian import from the USA is PF Chang that offers gourmet Asian fare such as black truffle sushi rolls and lobster spring rolls. For Korean food, one of the most trending cuisines in the English capital currently, head to On The Bad. The Korean tradition of chimaek – fried chicken wings with ice-cold beer – is brought to life here. While the dim sum at A Wong in Pimplico is nothing less than artwork, we recommend its ten-course ‘Taste of China’ that showcases China’s undiscovered regional cuisine.
Although it is clear that the English capital prides itself on exclusive fine-dining experiences, an exploration of its street food is worth your time as well. Brockley, Broadway, Borough and Camden Markets are some of the hotspots of London’s delectable street food vendors. On your list should be the chipotle beef burrito at Luardos (Brockley Market); candied bacon burger at Tongue ’n Cheek (Camden Market); slow-roasted pork belly with cucumber, spring onions and hoisin sauce at Yum Bun (Kitchen Spitalfields Market); and soy noodle salad with vegan fish sauce at Day Chay (Borough Market).
If you’re looking to stay in Mayfair, Intercontinental London Park Lane is a suitable option. The flagship property of Intercontinental Hotels & Resorts, it is designed with a mix of modern and traditional aesthetics. A Bose sound system and a Nespresso machine, along with Agraria bath amenities are a few of the in-room amenities. Do try the Mexican flavours at Ella Canta that is headed by Chef Martha Ortiz. parklane.intercontinental.com
However if your meetings are around Kensington, reserve your stay at Copthorne Tara Hotel London Kensington. With Hyde Park or city views, its rooms feature a safety deposit, a flatscreen TV and a tea/coffee maker. For Singaporean, Malaysian and Chinese Flavours, spend an evening at Bugis Street. Housing 12 spacious meeting rooms including two large scale suites, this is an ideal hotel for MICE. millenniumhotels.com
For a classic, Art-Deco-style experience in Mayfair, pick The Beaumont. A luxurious boutique with a charming old-world décor inspired by the great hotels of the 1920s, the hotel is privately-owned and independently-run. Its Colony Grill Room has established itself as a definitive favourite on the London dining scene while the Magritte Bar is the property’s ‘American bar’. thebeaumont.com
London Marriott Hotel Maida Vale is another conveniently located hotel in London’s Westminster, a short walk from Kilburn Park station. Its accommodation is minimal with elegant elements and modern touches. A dip in its Bannatyne’s swimming pool and an Italian meal at Carluccio’s should be on your agenda. With four versatile event spaces that can accommodate up to 180 people, it’s a good choice for events too. marriott.com
For a tryst with authentic British charm, we recommend a stay at Hyatt Regency London - The Churchill that pays an ode to Sir Winston Churchill. Featuring subtle cues from his life and legacy, the hotel is conveniently located near Hyde Park. Dine at The Montagu Kitchen to indulge in fresh, British cuisine that takes its inspiration from erstwhile residence of Winston Churchill. hyatt.com
Offering stunning views of the London Eye, Big Ben and Westminster Bridge, occupying London’s former City Hall is London Marriott Hotel County Hall. With art as the recurring theme at this hotel that embodies a quintessential British spirit. Unwind at its indoor pool or pick from over 100 gins at Gillray’s Steakhouse & Bar alongside locally-sourced steaks from O’Shea’s Butchers. marriott.com
Hard Rock Hotel London is the obvious choice for music lovers. Once the abode of Jimi Hendrix, Diana Ross and Bob Dylan, the hotel draws on the legacy of such illustrious artists. This is brought to life with a fascinating memorabilia collection and original artwork in every bedroom. Located on the corner of Oxford Street and Park Lane, head here if you wish to feel like a rockstar on your trip to London. hardrockhotels.com
A fan of London’s Nobu Restaurant? A stay at Nobu Hotel London Shoreditch should take care of that. The hotel blends the understated luxury of Nobu with East London’s creative energy. Nobu brings out ‘Asian-inspired and London-infused sights, sounds, scents and experiences’ to offer its guests an indulgent experience. Pick ‘Spa Escape’ package at Nobu’s luxurious that includes two treatments and a light lunch at Nobu Café. london-shoreditch.nobuhotels.com