London is home to all manner of luxurious five-star hotels, each offering their own take on lavish suites, opulent facilities and all-round impeccable service. But those that stand apart from the crowd offer something special – a decadent dining experience you’ll never forget, and for all the right reasons.
Some of the capital’s most notable Michelin-starred dining experiences can be found within the most opulent and often, historic hotels in the big smoke, and with an excellent cast of supporting acts, too, at these four of the finest you can expect to be thoroughly spoilt for choice.
The South Place Hotel
From Michelin-starred dining to comforting British fare, the South Place Hotel has got all bases covered. Nestled in the bustling heart of London City, fine dining eatery Angler is a highlight, with a mouth-watering menu centred around fresh seafood and complemented by pairings expertly selected from an extensive list of high-quality wines from worlds both old and new.
If you’re looking to really pull out all the stops for a special occasion, Angler’s Chef’s View is a semi-private table with capacity for up to 14, and enjoys some impressive vistas of the city below.
Over at the South Place Chop House, meat lovers can dine on seasonal and expertly sourced cuts of meat and freshly caught fish alongside a curated selection of craft beers and wines. And for drinks and nibbles, head to the stylish 3Bar or navigate the Secret Garden’s exclusive Chambord cocktail menu beneath a canopy of blooming flowers.
The Dorchester
Dining at the Dorchester is something very special indeed, and three Michelin-starred restaurant Alain Ducasse at the Dorchester is one of the most sought-after spots in the city. Headed up by the celebrated and pioneering French chef Alain Ducasse, who holds a total of 20 Michelin stars, with such expertise at the helm you can be certain you will be in for a treat, and executive chef Jean-Philippe Blondet’s inspired seasonal menus never fail to impress.
But The Dorchester’s impressive foodie line-up doesn’t end there, and at The Grill, talented young chef Tom Booton serves up a modern interpretation of a British grill in vibrant surroundings. Meanwhile, China Tang boasts a decadent dim sum menu to be enjoyed in sumptuous art deco surroundings, while Afternoon Tea offers what are arguably the very best champagne afternoon teas in the capital.
The Connaught
For yet more Michelin-starred dining, the Connaught is a stand-out choice. Hélène Darroze at The Connaught sports not one, but three, showcases an impressive menu grounded in seasonal produce sourced straight from an exclusive selection of farmers, makers and growers hand-picked by Hélène herself, transforming what at first might seem like some of the simplest ingredients into culinary works of art.
Jean-Georges at The Connaught is another highlight and offers a more relaxed and laid-back dining experience without compromising on quality or flair. World-renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s signature cuisine draws on inspiration from everywhere from the Far East to Great Britain itself, with a focus on fresh-from-the-market ingredients and simple yet remarkable flavour combinations.
Intercontinental London Park Lane
Over at the Intercontinental, you’ll find London’s finest Italian restaurant – no small feat when you look at the numbers. The brainchild of chef Theo Randall, expect hand-picked Italian imports fused expertly with seasonal local delights to create a rustic menu that has fast become the talk of the city.
While visiting, be sure to book in at Number One Park Lane for panoramic al fresco dining, all washed down with a selection of classic champagnes, innovative cocktails and fine wines. Inspired by the summer season, expect dishes including Osciestra caviar, freshly grilled lobster and to finish, a selection of decadent desserts.