INN & OUT: LONDON, ENGLAND
Our newest series to help you find your way on the road… to London!
Here are a few spots worth stopping in…
DINING
Sketch: If you’re looking for posh London (meet Paris) vibes… look no further. Each room is photo-worthy including the bathroom ‘pods’ (a must for amateur photographers). The experience lives up to the aesthetics as our afternoon tea included sandwiches, puddings and a string trio that made contemporary pop songs, classic! (reservation required)
Dishoom Carnaby: There are no shortage of fantastic restaurants for Indian cuisine in London, this one has multiple locations with character and vibe. We’ve now eaten at their SoHo & Kings Crossing locations both with a GREAT bar with and an interesting ‘tea-twist’ on an Old Fashioned plus a great menu for tapas-style sharing. We’ve returned multiple times.
Lobos Meat & Tapas: A small Spanish tapas gem in SoHo with the friendliest of staff and an overwhelming amount of dishes to satisfy both the adventurous foodie and the pickiest eaters alike. You know care is of the essence when you see the owner working the kitchen! Oh, and this one was quite affordable! (Tip: Come hungry and try everything).
Berners Tavern: Located in the London Edition, the high ceilings and detailed molding make this restaurant and bar marvelous! Traditional upscale British cuisine (you’ll need a reservation) or just enjoy the work of their mixologists at the bar!
The Ivy Asia: Probably the best Asian food (Chinese Szechuan & Sushi fushion) we’ve had in London. There are 3 locations, we ate at the St. Paul location which had AMAZING views of the Cathedral. The floor is literally, LIT. If you like spicy its the best edamame we’ve ever had, Szechuan chicken was amazing as was the yellowtail w/ truffle.
LIBATIONS
Oriole Bar: Went for the unique cocktails, found out upon arrival a live music show is part of the routine (yes)! Located beneath the Smithfield Market just blocks from the Farringdon Underground, one can enjoy a few libations, a show and some wonderful bites (I had the pork bun) all in one package. However… we recommend making a reservation ahead!
Cahoots: Take a trip back to the 1940’s via an underground train station in SoHo… with excellent cocktails, live piano player (who takes requests, American, English etc.), a pleasant staff and a vibe Churchill would be proud of!
The George Inn: Just a block or two south of the Tower Bridge, you’ll find The George which historically dates back to the 1500’s, however… due to fires, the current structure was built in 1677. It’s the only surviving pub of its time complete with a ‘coaching inn’ where wagons and horses could be tied up. One can still enjoy wine, pints & cocktails and pub food as its currently owned and protected by the National Trust.
Searcys: If you plan to take the Eurostar to Paris or Belgium, you MUST stop at the champagne bar with a balcony-view of the magnificent St Pancras International railway station.
Swift: Live music, craft cocktails and three locations in Shoreditch, Soho and Borough. Voted in top 50 bars in the world!
TO DO
Camden Market: This part of town reminds us of Brooklyn with buzzing streets, food vendors, bars and great shopping. (Tip: For quality menswear at a great price stop in on Camberry London / for a well curated vintage collection try Time Tunnel Vintage)
Imperial War Museums: If you’re a history lover… these are a no-brainer. Re-live the ‘Battle of Britain’ underground in Churchill’s War Rooms / or tour the decks of the HMS Belfast who took part in D-Day landings at Normandy and countless other missions over several decades.
HOTEL
St Pancras Renaissance Hotel: Dating back to 1873, this stunning building has been the artery to London’s railways for over 100 years. It closed to guests in 1935 and only re-opened in 2011 exactly 138 years after its original opening. More fun facts: it makes appearances in 2 Harry Potter flicks & the Spice Girls’ “Wannabe” video. Even better, you can book it with Marriott Bonvoy points.
Montcalm East: Another lovely experience offered through the Marriott Bonvoy Autograph Collection in Shoreditch, yet another convenient location 2 blocks from the Old Street Underground station (the Northern Line can take you anywhere in town). What’s more, this location is the opposite of St. Pancras in its super modern; warm bathroom floors, smart electronics etc and a look that’s very next decade! PS: the guest services were super helpful in changing reservations for tours and finding our way around London.
St Martins Lane: In the heart of the Theater District, this boutique hotel has a very attentive/friendly staff, unique restaurant Asia de Cuba (Latin/Asian fusion), all footsteps away from Covent Garden and Buckingham Palace. (Tip: The tube is also just a few blocks away for quick and easy travel)
The Dixon: Just a few blocks south of the Tower Bridge, this 1889 historic structure was once the Tower Bridge Magistrates Court & Police station… now you can stay in it overnight on Marriott Bonvoy points as part of the programs Autograph Collection.
Tip: They have their own coffee on the premises, go enjoy an espresso martini at the bar right where the judge would preside.
Yup, the old courtroom is now the bar!
If you happen to visit any of these spots let us know your thoughts!
Cheers, gents!
By, Brian McAleer
CEO & Co-Founder
Gent Life