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Why not spoil yourself and visit the best restaurants, bars and hotels here in London? Perhaps with a hot date to keep you company.
Since 2002, William Reed has compiled “The World’s 50 Best Restaurants” list. Subsequently, the media company has collated bar and hotel rankings. Here are the venues that are on our very own doorstep.
London’s Best Restaurants
Kol, 9 Seymour St, Marylebone, W1H 7BA
This contemporary Mexican restaurant in Marylebone ranks 17th on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. Seasonal, sustainable and stylish, this restaurant is a far cry from any Tex-Mex cantina. You will not find loaded nachos and fajitas here, I am afraid. What you and your beautiful date will discover is the brightest and freshest Mexican recipes made with British seasonal ingredients. Kol also offers an extensive vegan and vegetarian menu, as well as a fantastic wine-and-mezcal pairing menu.
Ikoyi, 180 Strand, Temple, WC2R 1EA
Ikoyi sits at number 42. A global fusion restaurant with an immaculately designed, spacious interior makes this an impressive date spot. No surprise that the restaurant was designed by David Thulstrup, known for his modern, simple style. The restaurant’s dishes are almost a juxtaposition to the decor. Sub-Saharan spices infiltrate almost every dish, including desserts, so definitely for those who like it hot. Ikoyi will wow even the most discerning of dates. Tasting menus start at £200.
London’s Best Bars
Scarfes Bar, the Rosewood, 252 High Holborn, WC1V 7EN
Scarfes Bar sits at number 37. In contrast to the other two London entries, this upscale bar is more of a safe bet for a date. Much more traditional and conservative than the other London haunts on this year’s list, but no less enjoyable or impressive. As you arrive at Scarfes Bar inside the stunning Rosewood hotel in Holborn, and inspired by gentlemen’s clubs of yesteryear. Named after the caricature artist, Gerald Scarfe. His drawings adorn the walls, tableware, and even playing cards. Gerald himself is said to enjoy a drink here. The drinks are full of flavour; classics with a twist. In summary, first-class service and a grand drinking experience await you and a beautiful date.
Satan’s Whiskers, 343 Cambridge Heath Rd, Bethnal Green, E2 9RA
At number 29 is the wonderfully named Satan’s Whiskers. Named after the cocktail, dating back to the 1930s. Dry gin, sweet vermouth, dry vermouth, orange curaçao, orange juice and orange bitters. It will knock your socks off, as does this wonderful bar. Sometimes upscale bars can overcomplicate matters with themes, fuss, and drag out the whole experience. Sure, there are a few man buns to be seen and an eclectic mix of fashions on display, but we are in gentrified Bethnal Green after all. A brilliantly refreshing date venue that will leave you and your gorgeous companion uplifted and perhaps a little tipsy. Additionally, if you are a hip-hop fan, this place is a must-visit.
Tayēr + Elementary, 152 Old Street, EC1V 9BW
Taking the 4th spot is Tayēr + Elementary. Formed of Tayēr, a boutique bar and Elementary, a more relaxed neighbourhood bar serving coffees and snacks. Elementary comes first, as one would expect. A communal table where you can enjoy the bar’s very own wine and beer, as well as their seasonal cocktails. Behind is Tayēr, much more industrial and a little less attainable than Elementary. More exclusive, perhaps. It is also worth noting that, in its 5 years of existence, the bar has been a regular on the World’s 50 Best.
London’s Best Hotels
Raffles at The OWO, 57 Whitehall, SW1A 2BX
Raffles at The OWO may be new, but it is already ranked 13th. Steeped in history, the former Old War Office in Whitehall is a majestic masterpiece. Live out your own James Bond fantasy, complete with Vesper Lynd on your arm, as you enjoy a martini in The Spy Bar. A secret bar hidden in the former MI6 and MI5 interrogation rooms, which is exclusively open to hotel guests and residents only.
This opulent five-star dwelling is everything one would expect from a Raffles property. Much like its flagship property in Singapore, it seeps luxury and history all in one. No matter which room or suite you and your date stay in, you can be sure of a grand yet welcoming stay.
Claridge’s, Brooke St, Mayfair, W1 4HR
The highest ranking hotel on The World’s 50 Best Hotels is our beloved Claridge’s, sitting pretty at number 11. Since 185,6, Claridge’s has provided luxurious and refined lodgings to the discerning visitor. You and a beautiful companion will enjoy a wonderfully luxurious stay here. Opulent Art Deco touches at every turn throughout this historic hotel.
Just three years ago, a seven-year renovation project was completed, which saw the hotel excavate underground and build a state-of-the-art Japanese spa, salon, in-house bakery, chocolatier, and event space. The bar and restaurant are fantastic for celeb spotting. Claridge’s really does have everything; there is almost no need to step out. You and your date could hibernate here for a couple of days, blissfully getting to know one another.
The Connaught, Carlos Pl, Mayfair, W1K 2AL
The perfect hotel in which to spend a luxurious 24 hours in London with a gorgeous companion. Placing at number 46, this Mayfair legend has been delighting guests since 1897. Classic yet contemporary, The Connaught ensures you and your beautiful date will enjoy a sumptuous stay in the heart of London. Furthermore, the Coburg Bar is a destination in itself and regularly appears on the World’s 50 Best Bars list. In fact, The Connaught was originally named The Coburg when it first opened over 100 years ago. Service meets style at this luxurious stalwart. Staff will cater to your every desire amongst the most beautifully decorated walls. In fact, will find pieces from Damien Hirst to Louise Bourgeois seamlessly placed through this 122-room masterpiece of a hotel.
