By Amira Hashish
From the elegant banquet-style Rose Room at The Ned to the sprawling skyline backdrop at The Standard hotel’s Decimo space, London is brimming with private dining options where the menus are as spectacular as the decor. Amira Hashish gives us a taste of what to expect…
The Residence at Holmes Hotel, Marylebone
On Chiltern Street in the heart of Marylebone Village, Holmes Hotel London has recently unveiled The Residence: a new exclusive use events venue within the hotel. The self-contained space, designed around the historic townhouses above, channels the decadence of the neighbourhood’s famous fictional resident Sherlock. Five versatile rooms are available; The Pantry, The Billiard Room, The Laboratory, The Conservatory and The Cellar. They host up to 130 guests when booked together or up to 20 guests when the rooms are used individually for smaller occasions. Designed by Zopsigog, the venue is lined with artfully positioned antiques, curiosities and artefacts. Two additional areas – The Library and the Telegraph Room – are handy hideaways for private moments or discrete phone calls.
Book: holmeshotel.com
The Ned, Bank
This delightfully dramatic space has six Grade I-listed meeting rooms and two outdoor terraces available to hire on the historic and fully-restored sixth floor. Each of the rooms has period features, including walnut panelling and vintage chandeliers, as well as ample domed windows to allow for plenty of natural light and a real sense of occasion. They range in size from 21 square metres to 165 square metres and can accommodate between 4 and 200 people so there is lots of flexibility. Food and drinks menus, from cocktails and snacks to four-course dinners, are personalised. For something rather special check out The Rose Room which is decked out with chandeliers, a marble fireplace and mahogany wood panelling.
Book: thened.com
Decimo, King’s Cross
On the 10th floor of The Standard hotel, Decimo has floor-to-ceiling windows with a London-skyline backdrop. The semi-private dining room allows guests to feed off the lively vibe and DJs in Decimo. It is open until 2AM on Fridays and Saturdays so it is perfect for those late-night parties. The menu comprises executive chef Peter Sanchez-Iglesias’ Mexican and Spanish-influenced dishes, including gambas rojas, Mangalitza pork and tortilla topped with caviar. The kitchen team can curate a bespoke set menu for events too, including wine and cocktail pairings. Bookable Wednesday to Saturday evenings from £,3000 for up to 38 guests.
Book: decimo.london
Claridge’s, Mayfair
The iconic hotel has unveiled a new dining destination; L’Epicerie is your ticket to front row seats at the culinary theatre of the hallowed kitchen. It is part of an ongoing evolution of Claridge’s, turning what would traditionally be ‘back of house’ areas into guest-facing experiential spaces. The chef’s table – the centrepiece of the space – is the place to go for private dining, masterclasses, wine dinners and interactive feasts, all led by Executive Chef Martyn Nail and his team. Private dining menus are available from £150 per guest with interactive experiences at £350 per guest.
Book: claridges.co.uk
Luca, Clerkenwell
There are two private dining rooms in this Italian favourite. The Garden Room is a beautiful indoor area in the style of an Italian garden and The Pasta Room has been designed to look and feel like a traditional Italian home kitchen. The Terrace, a covered, secluded and foliage-filled spot surrounded by olive trees and jasmine, is also available and ideal for a cosy, wintery meal with large groups, warmed by the open fire. There is the choice of the Chef’s Menu, the Feasting Menu or a Truffle & Barolo Tasting Menu with the option to add a canape reception at The Terrace. Prices are from £85 per person with a capacity of 8 to 19 guests.
Book: luca.restaurant
Kutir, Chelsea
Spice up the night with an Indian fine-dining dinner. There are two first-floor private dining rooms ideal for a celebration, The Sariska and The Ranthambore room, which can be freely decorated. Located in an elegant Chelsea townhouse, interiors are inspired by Indian wildlife. Chef Rohit Ghai’s signature Expedition menus, a seasonal Game menu or a bespoke option can be curated. The rooftop can also be hired for pre- or post- dinner drinks and canapés. Prices from £100 per person with capacity between 9 and 30.
Book: kutir.co.uk
The Ninth, Fitzrovia
The contemporary French restaurant by Chef Jun Tanaka is the place for a Michelin-starred dinner party. Home to a semi-private dining room, the set menu is Mediterranean-style. With the option to exclusively hire the restaurant or first floor also, you can control the restaurant’s music systems and decorate all private-hire spaces. From £1,500 – £10,000 with capacity ranging from 22 to 40 guests.
Book: theninthlondon
The Beaumont Hotel, Mayfair
For a formal sit-down meal, The Lotos Room of the recently refurbished Beaumont Hotel is a great option. The room, panelled in cherry wood with vintage lighting and bespoke art deco carpet, holds an additional ante-room for a drinks reception. The Beaumont has a selection of private dining menus created by Chef Ben Boeynaems, featuring signature dishes including Steak tartare and Fillet of Beef Wellington. There is also a canape menu with transatlantic accents, including Devilled quails eggs and the signature Corndog with Stout mustard.
Book: thebeaumont.com
The Laundry, Brixton
Brixton’s neighbourhood bistro and wine shop has a cute private dining room, ideal for intimate events with close friends and family. This festive season, there is a special feasting menu with a cocktail on arrival, a selection of sharing starters, including beef carpaccio and panzanella salad, a choice of mains, such as roasted lamb rump or herb-crusted cod, and a tiramisu for dessert.
Book: thelaundrybrixton.com
The Black Book, Soho
The boutique basement bar and restaurant is a hidden gem for wine gurus on Frith Street. It has two semi-private booths which are tucked away in the dark corners of the room and can accommodate groups of up to 12. There is also the Alcove space which works for parties, wedding celebrations, birthdays and wine tastings for up to 20 people. An intimate choice.
Book: blackbooksoho.co.uk
Kerridge’s Bar & Grill, Embankment
The private room here seats up to 16 and comes with a special menu by acclaimed chef Tom Kerridge. Alongside Tom, Head Chef Nick Beardshaw has created a menu that puts a twist on traditional British dishes and delivers big, robust flavours. The restaurant’s Head Sommelier is happy to help pair wine with every course once the dishes have been selected.
Book: kerridgesbarandgrill.co.uk
Bob Bob Ricard, Soho
Modelled on the Royal Dining Carriage, this opulent room seats up to 16 guests and offers the full à la carte menu from the main restaurant. The minimum spend is £1,000 plus service at lunch or £1,500 plus service at dinner.
Book: bobbobricard.com
Bistrotheque, Bethnal Green
East London’s stylish converted warehouse stalwart is that perfect blend of homely and industrial. It can be booked out for private events with the main restaurant hosting up to 120 with use of the sound system, projector and the baby grand piano. The Cockatoo on the lower ground floor seats 60 and has an electric piano and DJ booth. Expect hearty British dishes.
Book: bistrotheque.com
Aquavit, St James’s
There are two private dining rooms on the mezzanine floor of the contemporary Nordic restaurant which can be customised into different layouts to suit your needs. The larger of two rooms, The Stockholm, can seat up to 63 guests and 100 guests standing. The Copenhagen Room seats up to 15 at a large round table. Both are available to book throughout the day with menus following the theme served in the main restaurant, offering popular dishes along with staple Scandinavian favourites.
Book: aquavitrestaurants.com
Amira Hashish is the founder and director of content, creative and events agency Rapport. Previously, executive editor of the Evening Standard, she writes columns for leading newspapers and magazines about design and travel. Follow @thedesigneditor and visit www.clubrapport.com for more.
WHERE TO SEEK WINTER SUN IN EUROPE
By Amira Hashish
As the nights draw in, it is time to seek a happy dose of Vitamin D. The good news is you may just be a brief journey away from sunnier climes with many European destinations still offering warm temperatures, blue skies and longer days. Here are some great winter escapes with tips on stylish hotels that still have availability to book…
Paphos, Cyprus
Temperatures: upwards of 22°c in November and 18°c in December.
Brimming with history and beauty, Paphos is fittingly thought to be the birthplace of the Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite. A UNESCO world heritage spot, it has breathtaking sea views, rich history and plenty of romance. Coral Bay, nestled among banana plantations and vineyards, is the beach to head for a swim or enjoy walks amongst the ancient ruins for that beautiful blend of culture and escapism.
Where to stay: Almyra is a design-led hotel that underwent a revamp during 2020. The result is a cool, contemporary property with a playful ambience. Spread across eight acres of landscaped gardens, it is right on Paphos’ seafront with five freshwater swimming pools and a smooth wave-free zone protected by stone breakwaters. The adults-only Almyraspa is dedicated to holistic hedonism with treatments featuring apothecary. Private rooftop yoga, pilates, personal training and tennis lessons can all be booked, almyra.com.
Costa Adeje, Tenerife
Temperatures: upwards of 25°c in November and 23°c in December.
There is a romantic and intimate feel about Tenerife during the winter with plenty of sunshine to soak up. Costa Adeje is one of the most prestigious resorts. A sunset and stargazing tour at the Mount Teide National Park is a must. Tenerife’s wine production goes back to the XVI century so a vineyard tasting tour makes for a delicious experience. Scuba diving and snorkelling should be high on the agenda. Or try standup paddle-boarding along Los Gigantes, where you can admire cliff after cliff. Make a day trip to the Old Town to discover the beautiful patios and the eclectic architecture with a mix of the XV to XVIII centuries Spanish, Portuguese, British, Flemish, Italian, and French influence. Visit Roque Cinchado and Las Cañadas to see reminders of Mount Teide’s violent eruption in 1706. The Los Roques de Garcia trail leads you around the base of the Teide volcano; this eroded rock curves out of the ground and defies gravity.
Where to stay: Bahia del Duque and Las Villas are all about family-friendly luxury, privacy and Canarian flair. With Atlantic Ocean views and a design that recreates traditional Canarian Colonial villas from the 19th Century, this is a truly sumptuous base. The tropical gardens create a fabulously exotic setting. As well as spacious suites, there are many private villas for ultimate exclusivity. The hotel has five swimming pools, direct access to the promenade of the beach Playa del Duque, the award-winning Bahia Wellness Retreat and nine restaurants including the new fine-dining option, Kensei. It is home to some of the most personalised experiences in the Canary Islands. For true luxury, guests can travel to the hotel by private jet following a recent partnership with the Private Jet Services Group, thetaishotels.com/bahia-del-duque.
Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Temperatures: an average of 23°c in November and 21°c in December.
Only 64 nautical miles from the Saharan coast of Africa, it is little wonder that Lanzarote is a destination where ocean swims and sunbathing are perfectly possible throughout the festive season. The island has a secret following of A-list fans including Justin Bieber who splashed out on his very own villa there. A volcano-top restaurant, black-sand vineyards and Europe’s only underwater museum are fun places to visit.
Where to stay: With access to an almost private cove, Hotel Fariones was the first hotel built on the island in 1966 and has garnered a loyal following. It is now welcoming guests to its new chapter. The five-star retreat was renovated in 2020 and merges a contemporary design with sprawling sea views from every room. Gastronomy is taken very seriously with a selection of restaurants and bars on-site serving local produce and wine, hotelfariones.es.
Palma, Mallorca
Temperatures: an average of 19°c in November and 16°c in December
This may not be the time to go for a dip in the water at Deià but a city break in Mallorca’s capital Palma is always a pleasure. The historic destination merges characterful buildings including the striking La Seu Cathedral, the Royal Palace of La Almudaina, ‘La Lonja’ or the Arab Baths with contemporary restaurants, shopping, cafes, galleries and markets. Little wonder it is proving to be a popular filming destination with Netflix’s The Crown pitching up. The town will celebrate the 17th annual tapas TAPALMA festival from November 24 to 28. More than 50 restaurants, bars and cafes are expected to participate. Each year three routes are prepared for visitors to follow centred around Palma’s town centre, the market area of Santa Catalina and the Paseo Maritimo, tapalma.com.
Where to stay: Right in the middle of the historic centre, Sant Francesc Hotel Singular offers a brilliant base for a sophisticated city-break. The five-star boutique is set within a former Mallorcan mansion, built in 1860, which was lovingly restored in 2015 and is home to elegant rooms and signature suites, three restaurants and a fitness and a wellbeing centre. The stunning roof terrace with an enticing pool is the perfect sunbathing spot, and during the evenings the rooftop bar is just the place to enjoy a cocktail with panoramic views across the city. The relaxed fine-dining spot Quadrat Restaurant & Garden serves Mediterranean specialities with a modern twist, hotelsantfrancesc.com.
Madeira, Portugal
Temperatures: an average of 21°c in November and 19°c in December.
Nicknamed ‘the Island of eternal spring’, Madeira is fast becoming a coveted spot for a wellness-focused European getaway. The volcanic influences, clean, clear waters and unique ecosystem create the ideal climate for the luxury wellness and spa properties that have popped up. The island is centred around nature, golden beaches, turquoise coastlines and the outdoors with sun and clear skies all year round. Those looking for a more active winter break will also not be left disappointed, with rugged mountains lending themselves to biking routes, stunning walking trails and golf courses with panoramic views.
Where to stay: Reid’s Palace is a magnificent island retreat that has been the grande dame of Madeira for more than 125 years. Its mix of refined luxury, discreet service and excellent cuisine is typical of the Belmond group to which it belongs. Swim in the magnificent pools, including an enchanting tidal pool right by the ocean’s edge. Indulge in a soothing therapy at the beautiful spa and dine in Michelin-starred William Restaurant, soaking up the panoramic views. Each room or suite is designed to be a private oasis with a balcony or terrace from which to cherish the outlook, belmond.com.
The Algarve, Portugal
Temperatures: around 20°c in November and 17°c in December.
From deserted islands to award-winning beaches such as D.Ana, Meia Praia, Praia da Marinha and Falésia (which was voted best beach in the world by Trip Advisor), the Algarve has long been a haven for sea lovers. However, there is so much more to do in the region beyond the beach. Walkers and wine enthusiasts will enjoy hiking part of the Via Algarviana trail. The route crosses 11 of the 16 municipalities, so you can discover the natural landscapes and vineyards on foot. Or if you are looking to immerse yourself in watersports go surfing at Odeceixe Beach on the west coast with the best surf conditions found in the autumn and winter months.
Where to stay: Vila Monte Farm House has fresh and bright interiors by designer Vera Iachia to match its surroundings of citrus trees and pink bougainvillea. With its two local-flavour restaurants, twin swimming pools, many lounge spots and sandy beaches, this is one for fans of refined boho style, vilamonte.com.
Valletta, Malta
Temperatures: up to 21°c in November and 17°c in December.
In the heart of the Mediterranean, Malta is a small island with a big draw. Perhaps the most prominent selling point is the 300 days of sun guaranteed a year. In the Winter the streets are no longer packed with tourists and the beach is relatively quiet. The ancient capital of Valletta has had a revival in recent years, with the City Gate area being remodelled by The Shard architect Renzo Piano and many of the townhouses converted into design hotels. St. Elmo Bay, on the south side of the city, is a good swimming spot and also a famous diving site where many flock to see the underwater wreck of the WWII British destroyer HMS Maori.
Where to stay: Spread across four exquisite Maltese townhouses and their ancient vaults, dating back to the 1600s, Iniala Harbour House & Residences opened in April and has 23 uniquely designed rooms and suites. The hotel is the latest opening from philanthropist, Mark Weingard and overlooks the famous Grand Harbour. The chic rooftop restaurant, ION – The Harbour was awarded a Michelin Star within six-months of opening, inialamalta.com.
Crete, Greek Islands
Temperatures: An average of 19°c in November and 15°c in December.
Blessed with stunning landscapes, beaches, food and a laid-back atmosphere, Crete is a great destination for an off-season break. It’s one of the warmest Greek islands to visit outside of the summer months when the rich history of the island can be experienced without super high temperatures. There are several ancient palaces and archaeological sites to explore, the best known being the Palace of Knossos near Heraklion. Another highlight includes Balos Lagoon and Elafonissi Beach, recognised as one of the best beaches in the world.
Where to stay: Villa Ellinka is a majestic luxury villa to rent in Crete which has a very private and picturesque location outside the quiet village of Elounda. Once a fishing village it’s now an ideal destination for people who want a Greek island holiday in a place which is neither too busy nor too isolated. The villa has six double en-suite bedrooms, one of which has a Jacuzzi. The top floor bedrooms open to private balconies with amazing views to the sea and mountains while the bottom floor bedrooms have individual patios and the garden. There is a tennis court, boules court, a croquet lawn and a large infinity pool. The pièce de résistance is direct private access to the sea. It is part of The Luxury Travel Book Collection with prices from £13,3000 for a week, theluxurytravelbook.com. For a hotel option, Abaton Island Resort & Spa is on Crete’s northern coastline. It has panoramic views and overlooks the rocky shores of Hersonissos. The turquoise waters of the Aegean sea provide a dramatic backdrop come sunrise and sunset, and an immaculate infinity pool, private sandy beach and 364m shoreline serve as the perfect settings for rest and relaxation. The Elemis spa is divine and the Buddha Bar restaurant is always buzzing. There are guest rooms, suite or villa options, abaton.gr.
Athens, Greece
Temperatures: around 20°c in November and 17°c in December
Ideal for a city break with the sea on your doorstep. In addition to the old town, Athens’ key neighbourhoods each have their own attractions and character. Explore the cafe culture in Exarchia, the vibrant nightlife in Gazi or independent shopping in Koukaki. There is a thriving art and design scene – the latest being the port city of Piraeus. With a rich history and maritime legacy that stretches back thousands of years, it is fast becoming a hip hub for art lovers.
Where to stay: The Perianth Hotel, part of the Design Hotels collection, is a modernist structure from the 1930s that has undergone a rather remarkable conversion. Architects K-Studio tackled the building’s trapezoid shape by having short corridors in a radial disposition that connect the guestrooms to a wide space in the core of each floor. Glass walls allow light to enter from the shaft of the building into the lounge areas, perianthhotel.com.
Amira Hashish is the founder and director of content, creative and events agency Rapport. Previously, executive editor of the Evening Standard, she writes columns for leading newspapers and magazines about design and travel. Follow @thedesigneditor and visit www.clubrapport.com for more.
*Before travelling abroad check the latest Covid rules and advice. The official Government rules are the best starting point and can be found here. Each country has its own rules in place for foreign arrivals so check the official tourist board guidance for your chosen destination.
Hampers & Champers – Your Festive Gift Guide
By Jenna Jones
When it comes to Christmas gifting, food and wine will never go out of style. It’s the universal gift that oozes Christmas spirit and is guaranteed to put a smile on the face of that special someone. Therefore, all that’s left to do is order in time for the big day and that’s where we come in. As our gift to you this season we’ve rounded up a classic selection of hampers and champers including all important order deadlines for a stress-free Christmas shopping experience…
Harrods
Allow Harrods to take the hard work out of gift giving this season with one of their delectable festive hampers. Filled to the brim with sweet treats, preserves and a bottle of their finest Champagne, the Knightsbridge Christmas Hamper is a failsafe festive feast just waiting to be shared. Or delight the little people in your life with the Winnie-The-Pooh Once There Was a Bear Hamper, a suitably sweet celebration of Britain’s best loved bear, complete with delicious gingerbread, hot chocolate and an iconic Edward teddy.
Order deadline: UK: 21ST December, international: 15th December, US & Hong Kong: 17th December. Plus, free UK delivery on orders of £100 or more.
The BIB Wine Company
Featured as ‘the first ever luxury Bag-in-Box wine’ by Adrian Smith of the Independent, the BIB Wine Company has put Bag-in-Box wine on the map for all the right reasons. BIB are changing the face of quality wine in the UK, creating a sustainable future for the wine landscape, one recyclable box at a time. For the festive season we recommend their Château Couronneau ‘Cuvée Clair de Lune’ Bordeaux, a full-bodied, spicy merlot that pairs perfectly with roasted meats and cheese. Or opt for the Taster Box, complete with a recorded online tasting session as the perfect stocking filler. Bring people together this Christmas with BIB wines – a true tonic for the soul and a treat for the tastebuds.
Order deadline: UK: 23rd December (midday)
Fortnum & Mason
For the holy grail in hampers, it must be an iconic handwoven wicker delight from Fortnum & Mason. Head to their website and lift the lid on an unrivalled festive array of hampers to suit, well quite frankly, any Christmas occasion. The vegan-friendly, Yuletide Hamper, offers a delicious selection of luxurious free-from delights while the extravagant Christmas Feast Hamper is enough to keep a family full well into the new year!
Order deadline: UK: pre-order and choose a delivery slot up until 23rd December. F&M hampers sell out fast, so our advice is to get your order in asap to avoid disappointment!
Bespoke Wine Collection
As the name suggests, a gift from the Bespoke Wine Collection is a far cry from your generic bottle of vino. Give the ‘Perfect Gift of Experience’ this season with their beautifully presented, hand-picked selection of 3 fine wines. Each bespoke case of three includes a wine passport featuring the history of each estate, tasting notes, gastronomic pairing, serving suggestions and potential for further ageing. There’s also the option to tailor your case by specific wine, favourite region or to even celebrate a particular vintage year of significance. From treasured friends to trusted clients it’s the ultimate curated gift that’s guaranteed to impress.
Order deadline: UK: 10th December, international: 6th December
Selfridges
If a more personal touch is what you’re seeking this Christmas contact Selfridges where the team will be more than happy to build a unique hamper or gift box from their range of delectable gastronomic delights, complete with a personalised gift message. Choose from the finest yuletide festive favourites including Christmas spiced orange hot chocolate, indulgent cheese selections and a host of celebratory tipples.
Order deadline: UK: dependent on stock availability. Stock is reserved once payment has been made. Sell through is fast this year so order sooner rather than later.
The Magnum Company
Nothing says Christmas quite like a celebratory magnum shared with loved ones and no one does it quite like The Magnum Company. Firmly believing that quality and quantity should not be mutually exclusive concepts, The Magnum Company seeks to ensure that wine enthusiasts enjoy the latest and greatest the market has to offer on an extravagant scale! Champagne will always be first to mind with the mention of a magnum, but The Magnum Company offers so much more with Crémant, Port, Sherry, Rosé and Red all available in the impressive 1.5L offering.
Order deadline: UK: 21ST December