Words by Hannah Tan-Gillies
LLM contributor Hannah Tan-Gillies checks in for a stay at this elegant hotel that blends Nobu’s Japanese aesthetic with Warsaw’s vibrant and eclectic culture.
Hotel
From the outside looking in, the Nobu Hotel Warsaw, a member of Preferred Hotels and Resorts, may seem a tad out of place amidst Warsaw’s old-world architecture. Inside though, this modernist hotel blends the old and new to startling effect blending Nobu’s decidedly Japanese aesthetic with Warsaw’s vibrant and eclectic culture. The hotel itself is symbolic of Warsaw’s renaissance. One half is designed in Nobu’s signature style, while the other half is housed in a 20th century building which pays homage to Warsaw’s Art Deco past.
In the lobby, a sprawling wooden spiral staircase leads to the second floor. Nobu fans will recognise the signature Japanese wood style of the staircase, the industrial elements and the floor-to-ceiling glass windows, which are ever-present in many Nobu properties, and appreciate the impressive collection of art that is dotted throughout the space.
Room
Split between the old and new wings, the Nobu Hotel Warsaw has 117 rooms, each one offering every amenity that a discerning luxury traveller could ever need. I stayed in one of the deluxe rooms in the new wing, which was generously spaced and housed in one of the hotel’s upper levels. Once again, floor to ceiling windows wash the room in light. A king-sized bed, vinyl record player, heated bathroom floors and the effortlessly cool ambience of any Nobu property greet you once inside.
I had the opportunity to visit the impressive Nobu Suite. Perfect for extended family holidays, this sprawling space boasts a large living area, kitchenette, walk-in wardrobe and free-standing bath. Dressed in dark wood and with industrial lighting fixtures and cosy Japanese textiles, it is luxurious without being gaudy and a fabulous place to rest your head after a day of exploring.
Food
Ask any local and they will name Nobu as one of the best and most luxurious restaurants in the city. In the afternoons, the Nobu restaurant is a cool working space, perfect for high-powered meetings in the centre of the city.
At night, it transforms into the place to be for Warsaw’s international jet-set. A DJ plays while guests enjoy craft cocktails and Nobu’s time and tested Japanese menu, with favourites like the miso black cod continuing to delight. We sampled the Omakase Menu, an impressive five-course menu that takes you on a journey through all the Nobu classics. Highly recommended with a jug of ice cold sake.
Speaking of sake, Nobu Hotel Warsaw has just opened the doors to the Sake Bar by Nobu, across the restaurant. The bar has an impressive portfolio of sake, which can be enjoyed under surreal cloud-like structures over the bar. It is the place to see and be seen on a Friday or Saturday night.
Spa
The Spa, located in the hotel’s state-of-the-art wellness centre, is the perfect place to relax and recharge your batteries. The private spa suite is a lush oasis where you can switch off and enjoy moments of bliss. The hotel’s signature spa experiences draw from the best traditional wellbeing practices and uses luxury products from Natura Bissé.
Fitness fanatics will enjoy the compact yet fully equipped gym, which boasts incredible views of the city below. There is also a sauna and steam room which can be booked for private use, completing the Nobu Hotel Warsaw wellbeing experience.
To do
Located in the heart of the city, the Nobu Hotel Warsaw is within proximity to all the sights and sounds of the city. Nearby, there is the iconic Palace of Culture and Science, a must-see for first time visitors. The Old Town Square and surrounding old town is just a quick walk away and offers plenty of culture and history for those looking to immerse themselves in the Warsaw’s colourful past.
Short on time? Then walk along the Royal Route, which houses all the city’s most important cultural landmarks such as the Royal Castle and Krasinski Palace and Museum of King Jan III in Wilanów, whose beauty is so well-regarded that it has been coined ‘Polish Versailles’. Warsaw is also home to a vibrant underground art scene so don’t forget to look out for any art exhibitions or pop-ups that may be going on in the city during your stay.
Getting there
The Nobu Hotel Warsaw is a quick 10-minute taxi ride from Warsaw Chopin International Airport. It’s also a quick walk from the Warsaw Central Station.
Factbox
Rates at Nobu Hotel Warsaw, a member of Preferred Hotels and Resorts, start from £137 for a double room. For further information or to book, visit preferredhotels.com
Address: Wilcza 73, 00-670 Warszawa, Poland
Phone: +48 22 551 88 88
Website: nobuhotels.com
Photography courtesy of Nobu Hotel Warsaw
