The Dorchester Park Lane, often affectionately called “The Dorch” by those who know and love it, is one of the world’s most prestigious hotels and sure to impress any discerning young lady.
Sophisticated but not stuffy, The Dorchester hotel is unsurprisingly positioned on Park Lane overlooking Hyde Park. The location of this wonderful establishment is just as impressive as the luxurious hotel. Celebrities and royalty have stayed here and it is not hard to see why. The Dorchester was said to be Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton’s favourite and they frequented the hotel multiple times over the course of their marriage(s).
Long before the Burton/Taylor era The Dorchester has always been associated with the wealthy and well known. In the late 1700’s the Earl of Dorchester has his London home on the site that the hotel now stands on and he named it Dorchester House. Over the years Dorchester House exchanged hands (and names) and in 1853 it was bought by the famous but long since forgotten Victorian magnate Robert Stayner Holford, who had the house remodelled in the style of an Italian palazzo. Since the early 1900’s Dorchester House has played host to the American Embassy. During World War 1 it served as a hospital before it was eventually sold in 1929; it then suffered the same fate as many of the grand London houses of the aristocracy and Dorchester House was pulled down to be rebuilt once again.
In 1931 the iconic building that we now know as the Dorchester Hotel opened it’s doors for the first time.
The Dorchester Park Lane is now part of the Dorchester collection, which boasts: 45 Park Lane, Coworth Park, The Beverly Hills Hotel and Le Meurice within its impressive armoury of locations to name but a few.
The hotel is actually undergoing a facelift at present although it remans open for bookings. The last renovation was back in 2002 and so twenty years later the hotel is ensuring that its five star credentials remain. Do not be put off by the temporary concrete and scaffolding outside, as indoors is still as wonderful as ever. Any lady would be delighted to accompany a gentleman here for a romantic tryst.
If you are tempted by a stay at this magnificent residence then here is what you and your date will have in store for yourselves.
The Grill at The Dorchester
Tuck into modern British cuisine in this vibrant eatery. Tom Booth, head chef is well known as an impressive young chef. He began his career at 15 and has breathed new life into The Grill. He is energetic and passionate about his craft which shines through his menu. Highlights include: the lobster Thermidor tart, a prawn scotch egg and the tastiest rib eye steak this side of town.
Alain Ducasse
If you want to impress your date then book at spot at the Dorchester’s Michelin starred restaurant. Ok, I am being coy as this establishment has not one, not two but three Michelin stars. Alain himself has 17 Michelin stars and a whole trophy cabinet of other awards. Executive chef Jean-Philippe Blondet has created a seasonal, modern and fresh menu. There are tasting, garden and a la carte menu’s. Think beetroot and wasabi, French cheeses and scallops with caviar. it is a seductive and decadent setting for a wonderful romantic date. If you want to pull out all the stops you can always book Table Lumière which is a private table within the restaurant, you are hidden behind a fibre optic. curtain so you can still enjoy the atmosphere of the restaurant whilst feeling like VIP’S.
Orchid Room
Sometimes you just want a quiet drink with a stunningly beautiful girl. The Orchid Room is a beautiful area of The Dorchester hotel which offers champagne, cocktails, cakes and sandwiches in an opulent setting. Think high ceilings, gilded decorations, beautifully upholstered chairs and a pianist playing in the background. Somewhere you can get to know one another in style.
China Tang
Dim sum, cocktails and a good time await you in this upscale, Art Deco style restaurant. China Tang at The Dorchester is a London legend. You are transported back to 1930’s Shanghai for your choice of lunch, afternoon tea or dinner. It is an exceptional eatery and you cannot fail to have a good time here. Fresh, traditional Chinese dishes such as Peking duck, won ton soup, prawn toasts and crispy shredded beef. The cocktails are simply fabulous and you will feel as if you are in a by gone era whilst sipping on your favourite tipple in this gloriously decadent setting.
The Rooftop
Experience breath-taking views across Hyde Park come rain or shine in this wonderfully opulent restaurant and bar. Above the treetops you can enjoy seasonal cocktails and light bites. The atmosphere feels vibrant and the service is outstanding. It is the kind of place that is a hidden gem with the gigantic wow factor. You and your date will have a wonderful time here whatever the weather. When the sun shines, the terrace is open and it really comes into its own. However we can never rely on the British weather, so when there is a chill in the air The Rooftop of the Dorchester has plenty of themed pop ups and seasonal treats to keep you satisfied.
