|
A trip to an old new world
I have 3 trips planned for this year, but as the saying goes: Something more always goes. A destination which was actually immediately back on the list since our trip in 2019 is London, always a nice destination. Actually, we wanted to make a few more days in the area, but with rental car prices of € 200 for a Fiat 500 and € 400 for a BMW 530d (probably in basic equipment)this was not too attractive. On top of that, hotel prices were off the charts. So in the end it came down to London alone. Flights were quickly booked with excess British Airways points, now it was on to the hotel search. I still have a $500 voucher for Belmond, but somehow I can't warm up to the Belmond London. Also, the Lanesborough has always appealed to me and it was priced quite attractively with 4 for 3 offers. In the end, it was 4 nights at the Lanesborough for a short trip. The restaurants were also booked quickly, the choice fell on the two previously unknown to me 3-star restaurants Helene Darroze and Sketch. I also booked Claude Bosi at Bibendum (I was always attracted by the building) and Amaya as an Indian restaurant. So then it could start....
|
DUS - Open Sky Lounge
A premiere followed! Previously, British Airways in Düsseldorf has always departed from the B gates, so we used the Hugo Junkers Lounge. This time the flight departed from the C gates, so it went to the Open Sky Lounge. So far I only knew the Emirates lounge there and I was excited.
The excitement didn't last long, the Open Sky Lounge is certainly not a place you need to have seen. In terms of design, the Hugo Junkers Lounge is more attractive and the food offer was also rather simple in nature. Fortunately, it was only a short visit. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bc6b903711.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d8f69973b1.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...66ef86a3c2.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...01651bc42b.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...23ed214a6c.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a9dec07881.jpg |
Another trip report by offerendum! Looking forward to it!
|
Originally Posted by lamphs
(Post 34221621)
Another trip report by offerendum! Looking forward to it!
|
Interesting... I've never been in the Open Sky lounge in DUS. Thanks for the trip report!
|
DUS - LHR
Unfortunately, I can't promise too much excitement on the flight now. It was basically a standard flight in a wonna-be business in an A319.
https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...1b0db72998.jpg Boarding was fast, the seat as expected. Some time ago, BA has given his business a renewal, so primarily the distances from row 2 significantly reduced. From the seat pitch, one flies in the emergency exit row definitely better. A real impertinence. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...38064c2c72.jpg BA has the nerve to charge business passengers €26 for a seat reservation. No thanks, I was happy to do without. Particularly funny here was that the first row (the only one with some seat pitch) was not available at all. At check-in it was then free, so who pays is punished twice. Farewell to Düsseldorf. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...1908bc6b9f.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...cb11ba51ec.jpg I always find the food in Club-Europe quite decent and also this time the vegetarian breakfast was quite good. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b26fd19b7c.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...998d754445.jpg Bye Belgian Coast https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7d268c9df2.jpg Hello English coast. https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...51ffc82190.jpg Windsor Castle (photographed too late) https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3b37241d1f.jpg Ditton Manor https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bf0545fbff.jpg We arrived in time and said good bye to our plane. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0fbad3eb4f.jpg Baggage claim https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7b611e4f39.jpg What came first? Suitcase without priority tag..... After all, our suitcases came quite quickly. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d78de0c267.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4efb899c95.jpg |
Trip to the Lanesborough
I had decided to book the hotel limousine for the ride to the hotel, because the price of 200 GBP was just above Blacklane and SixtRide. After we left the baggage claim, our driver was waiting for us. It was off to a fairly new BMW 740d. What I don't understand at this point is why the Lanesborough would purchase a regular 7 series. After all, if I have a chauffeur car, I'll take a long version. If I want to drive it myself, I'd rather leave it alone.
At the airport at the latest, it became clear that we had arrived in what felt like a different world. While in Düsseldorf the majority of people wore masks, now it was only a very small minority. Also our chauffeur wore almost self-evidently no mask. The ride was then quite fast and pleasant, everything was ready when we arrived. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ec700fe5e3.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8c255bdfdc.jpg |
Yes masks in England disappeared first in the UK, thankfully the other nations weren't as quick in doing that! I was more than happy to keep wearing my mask for another couple of months but happy enough now to be mask free.
Re the hire car prices - not sure if its the lack of new cars that is forcing prices up to a ridiculous amount or what it is. A colleague wanted to fly into LHR and hire a car for while he was down south but the cost was so ridiculous that despite it going to cost about £200 and a 1000+ miles round trip, its more cost effective for him to drive south than fly/hire a car. |
Originally Posted by nequine
(Post 34231346)
Yes masks in England disappeared first in the UK, thankfully the other nations weren't as quick in doing that! I was more than happy to keep wearing my mask for another couple of months but happy enough now to be mask free.
Re the hire car prices - not sure if its the lack of new cars that is forcing prices up to a ridiculous amount or what it is. A colleague wanted to fly into LHR and hire a car for while he was down south but the cost was so ridiculous that despite it going to cost about £200 and a 1000+ miles round trip, its more cost effective for him to drive south than fly/hire a car. |
The Lanesborough building
The Lanesborough used to be a hospital, which is still commemorated by the lettering on the building.
https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...82d7270e84.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...16d396dbda.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d0653785ca.jpg The entrance clearly looks more like a mansion. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...34a2a41f6b.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c9da802f82.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...13d45d42a5.jpg |
Gorgeous TR. thank you!
|
Originally Posted by gaobest
(Post 34231813)
Gorgeous TR. thank you!
|
I LOVE the Belmond Cadogan in the London. For some reason, it just works for me.
The restaurant used to be run by British Chef Adam Handling but it looks like he didn't renew the contract and the place has changed hands. |
Originally Posted by DFW_CK
(Post 34234410)
I LOVE the Belmond Cadogan in the London. For some reason, it just works for me.
The restaurant used to be run by British Chef Adam Handling but it looks like he didn't renew the contract and the place has changed hands. |
Suite 138
Check-in was quick and the lady at the front desk (who introduced herself as the manager on duty) escorted us to our Park Suite. This was on the second floor, which meant particularly high ceilings. It was suite number 138.
https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d1f24378d4.jpg All rooms in the hotel are furnished differently, next to us was also a Park Suite which seemed to be a bit larger. Kutz afterwards I learned that it was occupied by KatW. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ab404388a1.jpg Behind the front door was a small hallway. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...80246b260c.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...585d148e80.jpg I had specifically asked for a suite with a guest bathroom. The wish was also fulfilled to me. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4911a1f91c.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f7956076cf.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...6ace947db8.jpg Our suite was decorated in shades of red. You can't exactly say that the suite was particularly large, the stated 50 square meters seem accurate to me. Even though it was a bit cramped at the sofa, it was big enough. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...464cfd5990.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2ee4c1e746.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2fae600b3b.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ec8de46c06.jpg The TV was hidden behind a painting. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7d2edc4de6.jpg There were a number of Asian elements in the room, this was especially visible in the lamps, curtains and later in the bathroom. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f1fddf2fc6.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...af9e1448a5.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...63c93520db.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d21b44b5da.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9c5bcefde8.jpg The bedroom was also not huge, but had a canopy over the bed. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e0bcf0df23.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...fac605b578.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...6229222de1.jpg I especially liked the ceiling. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...323bfa40a5.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...451bcff4b3.jpg The bathroom I would also describe as of average size, the only drawback was the lack of a second sink. Cosmetics were not in disposable bottles, but large dispensers. Formerly a sign of cheap hotels, today an expression of ecological responsibility. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...da296d701c.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8dfbd86402.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d399bcf5c9.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b94918ec49.jpg I had to "fix" the shower head first, as it was calcified and spraying in all directions. Otherwise, the shower was very pleasant. A Park Suite, of course, also comes with a corresponding view. This one would not be something I would really spend money on. Unfortunately, the windows could not be opened. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0065301faf.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...31a06469a9.jpg Opinions differ on the Lanesborough's rooms. While one room on the Internet looks really "special", I found our suite pretty. We sometimes called the hotel a dollhouse before, but that's only part of the truth. It's certainly classic, but not stale or even worn out. |
Your room looks nice but jeez, very dated because of the furniture used. Not a room I would fancy staying in although I do like the view!
|
Originally Posted by nequine
(Post 34239896)
Your room looks nice but jeez, very dated because of the furniture used. Not a room I would fancy staying in although I do like the view!
|
Lanesborough SPA
The SPA at the Lanesborough is located in the cellar of a separate building. You reach it over a separate escalator, but the way to it is quite complicated.
https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c2483ab10e.jpg There is a classic lobby at the SPA. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4d4c83b035.jpg Hallways https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...059e2c9880.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...18e83574ff.jpg The changing room is quite elegant. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...923b8a1958.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c2d1cf4348.jpg There are different steam baths and saunas for men and women. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...029397ac83.jpg The heart of the SPA is a hydro pool. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...302359a45c.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...47f0f4b332.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8b48bc07da.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2945793203.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4e79d4fd5f.jpg Nothing for swimming, but nice for relaxing as it was quite warm. Therefore the air in the room was quite stuffy. |
Lanesborough welcome tidbits
Lanesborough was quite good with welcome tidbits. One of the butlers brought tee.
https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7cfc3f2456.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5600b2d206.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9bfda8f3a7.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...36f98d07cb.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...00955ec6b9.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...24c485184f.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a827c7ebde.jpg |
On the first day we basically went shopping, in the evening we went to the first restaurant. We had chosen the Sketch Library Room, which had received the 3rd Michelin star in 2020. The location is without question very special. There are several bars on the first floor, all very lively and hip. We got a tour after dinner, here are a few pictures.
https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...193f95f33c.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...07724f2749.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...1008f6da4b.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8eb23abd68.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...db6434118c.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...471d7f4fe2.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3ac0bd0510.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...33e6e11781.jpg A model https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d949e3dbc6.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...cb06351d5d.jpg The famous toilets https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0a09c2e95d.jpg There are stairs leading up to the restaurant, and the climb itself is an experience. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8cf6feff86.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...dead350491.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...12e795bb91.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...751141103e.jpg |
Great report! But, wow...the Lanesborough rooms are in dreadful need to be brought up to the standards of the common areas (which appear spectacular).
|
Originally Posted by NYC Flyer
(Post 34245560)
Great report! But, wow...the Lanesborough rooms are in dreadful need to be brought up to the standards of the common areas (which appear spectacular).
|
They might not be old in that sense, but as I commented, they do appear old because of the furniture used in the rooms.
|
Originally Posted by offerendum
(Post 34245833)
The rooms are not really old, it was re-opened after a full renovation in 2015.
Originally Posted by nequine
(Post 34246045)
They might not be old in that sense, but as I commented, they do appear old because of the furniture used in the rooms.
|
Originally Posted by NYC Flyer
(Post 34246932)
I suppose it might just come down to style preference.
|
Originally Posted by nequine
(Post 34246045)
They might not be old in that sense, but as I commented, they do appear old because of the furniture used in the rooms.
Alternatives for this stay were Belmond and Connaught. |
Sketch Lecture Room and Library
The main restaurant on the second floor is again very specially decorated, with lots of plush and ornamental furniture. In any case, very unusual.
https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f81e006cfc.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b4118b57e4.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c614128819.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ec30ea4b4f.jpg You can choose between a tasting menu and an a la carte option, both costing 165 GBP. We were told the a la carte menu with composite courses was what the Sketch is about. So we decided to go for it. Es startete mit dem Amuse Bouche. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...fa32613c41.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8123220339.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...55fe8ccead.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bef99b9aa7.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...964fd3462b.jpg Bread https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...598bf2ac3f.jpg For our first course, we chose Scottish Langoustines. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...443c613e14.jpg The langoustines came in several dishes, which is typical of the Sketch. Mazanilla Sherry Zam-Zam/ Baby spinach with torrefied pine nus/ Bisque https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...1bef86fa80.jpg Roasted in brown butter with liquorice/ Wheat-beer reduction/ Fennel https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f01427aa3f.jpg Butterflied tail with barberries and Lardo di Colonnata/ "Cristallines" https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b8676ab022.jpg Raw: frozen raspberries/ Perrier-Jouet Champagne granita infused with hibiscus https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...890423ad51.jpg For the second course we chose Native Lobster, again in several dishes. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4bbce332d3.jpg Tail sliced and brushed with a carrot reduction/ Mangetout, cos lettuce leaf https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5d744c63f5.jpg Bisque with fregola pasta and golden raisins https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ce89946478.jpg Rilette of claw with fresh coriander and citrus. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...6f8e62e66c.jpg Amber jelly, Chantilly (normally it´s fois gras but they made it with fish for us), powdered shell https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b9ad1cfcf5.jpg GF had Chocolate Soufflé containing of Tainori soufflé,/ Caramelia chocolate sheet/ Guanaja ice crean/ Manjari ganache with 1983 Bas Armagnac Domaine de Juanda, Macaronade Equateue/ Blackcurrant, Panna cotta "Amarelli"/ Griotte https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...1bafaae6a0.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9f8e977527.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...58107fc8ea.jpg I took the Grand dessert https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2ab10e4617.jpg Tahaa and Madagascan Vanilla: marshmallow/ Syrup/ Ice cream/ Turkish delight/ Poppy chantilly tartelette https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ebb555df62.jpg Organic lemon jelly and cream/ Burrata square/ Rhubarb/ Marietta olive oil https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...306f72dbcb.jpg Yuzu and Sake granita/ Mango and avocado with pink Champagne https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7186bf670f.jpg Chocolate 2.0: jelly/ Chantilly/ Dipped sorbet/ Home-made praline paste https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...31de11df04.jpg Meringua tarta/ Sticky dragon fruit with pomgranate https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e9f762b184.jpg Almond Cream/ Amarelli ice cream/ Coffee mousse https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0d7b5b36ff.jpg Petit fours https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c34eaaf0fa.jpg The dinner was undoubtedly good, although I can't say for sure whether it was 2 or 3 stars. As I said, all good, but even without the "killer dish". 165 GBP were then certainly no bargain, even if the many small dishes are of course very elaborate. |
Lanesborough breakfast
Breakfast ist always important and was served in the main restaurant. The room is simply stunning.
https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...38cc6a3804.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2658f0c918.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...84503dce22.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...028742f917.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...451dee9eac.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f3ed8c9561.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8b9f9910b8.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8694379cd3.jpg The breakfast was a la carte and the problem began with the credit. In our confirmation stood it would be 45 GBP per person, in our welcome letter 40 GBP per person. In the end I didn´t ask and we took what we wanted, but always with an eye on the total amount. With 45 GBP it´s not that easy at Lanesborough. Here some dishes: Scrambled eggs with truffle - not bad, but not that special that it would justify the price of 34 GBP https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9c7fb8f1d6.jpg Pancaces - not as good that we needed it 2 mornings https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f99a2e8cff.jpg Avocado toast - quite good https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3c913b8be1.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e6c34fe524.jpg Eggs - saw better presentations in the past https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...70750b9c90.jpg Vegan breakfast - good https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...081c7d009d.jpg Fruits https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9348e320ac.jpg Eggs florentine - good https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...049f1ef05e.jpg Bread basket - quite the best value with 12 GBP https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f740ba613f.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...aaf42e8f94.jpg Omelette - solid https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a4eaa665c3.jpg French toast - can´t really recomment it https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...784a3aefa2.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...cced119222.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...95af282a24.jpg Porridge - quite plain https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c9d3d3b414.jpg Nice tea https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...53eeaf5430.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0baacc4134.jpg Here a bill of one morning. The 20,00 Bridgerton Tea Caddie was to take home, otherwise they even charged some water. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3c94e0a5a9.jpg The breakfast is not the star of the Lanesborough. No reason to complain about, but also no reason to return. But now the big positive thing: At check out nothing was charged for breakfast. |
Jeez what a rip off at the prices but good that you didn't actually have to pay for it.
|
Originally Posted by nequine
(Post 34262778)
Jeez what a rip off at the prices but good that you didn't actually have to pay for it.
|
That's not ambitious, that's ridiculous!
|
Victoria & Albert museum
My favorite museum in London is Victoria & Albert. The collection is nearly endless and some art is simply stunning. This time we spend a short visit, here some impressions:
https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...6343235fdf.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a7c0c160e3.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5db3cfae15.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e20766641f.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0e85c8beed.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...f357e884c2.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b78e07f00d.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d78d220501.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3b800e94cd.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ba24587f57.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5694196293.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e19fcd3ca9.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8947ea83cc.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...634b9e05a1.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...adc26e9e29.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...00fcd8773d.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bae6c51618.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...85180f0de8.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...50dc44c252.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a18609da2e.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...3f74a58beb.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...79978c56d3.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...837129b201.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5455a10847.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c5bb5d729f.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0e81260372.jpg https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...749f8cd4a2.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8041cbc541.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...95e712bf7d.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9096d4c64d.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9a3aa3681c.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ff60e7aa69.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...cf3b5cca71.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...589cb2c379.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...61a88e1c97.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7e2eb87a5f.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c202befe0e.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...49e6b82f68.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4222c8c66f.jpg |
Helene Darroze at the Connaught
The purpose of the trip was also to try the two new and not yet known to me 3-star restaurants. After the skit, it was now Helene Darroze's turn. Since it was not possible to get a table for dinner, it became a lunch.
The hotel is located in the quite conservative Connaught hotel. The restaurant itself is quite modern with a lot of wood. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e8ed0f3061.jpg Amuse Bouche - nice https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5aa23221bb.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4ae1e9d63e.jpg Bread with spectacular butter. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4593bfcb80.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...1875795380.jpg Now came the first funny moment. I now once do not drink alcohol, but like non-alcoholic wine. Here I was offered non-alcoholic wine, on closer inspection it was an Alain Milliat grape juice. https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e60a7bc33b.jpg Against the grape juice is generally nothing to object, but here 0.1 liters were sold for 12 euros, a 0.33 liter bottle costs € 4.20 in the trade. That is quite a good profit margin. If people take that more frequently, the patron no longer comes out of the laughter. We took the 95 GBP lunch menu. GF took as an appetizer White Asparagus, gurnard, whelks, royal bottarga, white miso. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e70aec34ab.jpg Surprisingly, the dish was quite tasteless and far from 3 stars. I had Lobster, Tandori spices, carrot, vitrus, coriander which came with a 22 GBP surcharge. https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...76928b10f5.jpg The dish was good, no question about it. It was not outstanding. Main course was Red Mullet, potato, kohlrabi, taggiasca olives, yuzu kosbo https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...1da8333473.jpg A decent dish, although again it was not a taste explosion. I still decided to go for a cheese course. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...125a6b6f96.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...132af92295.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5e92f23230.jpg Pre dessert https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...92ab7e52c0.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b7934d17b4.jpg GF had Chocolate, cocoa pulp, cocoa nibs for dessert. https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2899924ff1.jpg Good one. I had Pear, boney, ginger https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...bd60f2edfc.jpg Quite good. Really good petit fours https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c99f82e346.jpg The food was good from my point of view, although not at 3 star level for me. 2 stars would be absolutely enough here in my view, I have also eaten in at least as good restaurants with one star. I am glad to have tried it once, but would probably not return here again. There are more exciting restaurants in London. Bill was 339,75 GBP which I found not too little for what was offered. |
The original Claude Darroze in Langeon is still excellent and has regained its star. Have not tried HD at the Connaught, and from your review am not inclined to. That cheese course was pathetic for a 3-star house. If you like good cheese, you'd get much better at Chez Bruce (1-star) on Wandsworth Common.
|
Lanesborough Grill
After some shopping and time at the SPA it was time for dinner. In Lanesborough, until just before our stay, there was Celeste, which had a Michelin star. Due to changes in the chef's brigade, the Michelin has cancelled the star this year and they have decided on a new concept with a new name. The cuisine is described as modern British.
The dining room is especially beautiful in the evening. https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4b3c4670f9.jpg Good bread to start. https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5b5f6025bd.jpg Grilled octopus, sea kale, jersey royals, white almond gazpacho https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7b7955d4d5.jpg Coronation crab salad, curry and lime sabayon https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8a628f7052.jpg Poached native lobster, courgette purée, spring vegetables, lemon verbena butter https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...856b216af8.jpg Grilled monkfish, glazed aubergine, spiced mussel butter https://cimg0.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8e43f8bb83.jpg Glazed caramel white chocolate, Williams pear, vanilla ice cream https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...e19d867c05.jpg Rose blend tea ice cream sandwich, rhubarb sorbet https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b71c7ab105.jpg The food was of very good quality and in my view well within the range of a Michelin star. I would eat here again without further ado. |
Courtauld Gallery
The Courtauld Gallery is an art gallery which is located in Sommerset House.
https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8ab91bfb6b.jpg The famous staircase. https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9157dffda9.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...dbaa6f7c03.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...589d54c831.jpg While many know the museum for its Impressionist collection, the Old Masters are not neglected. There are 29 paintings by Rubens alone. https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...63d32d47d7.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...9c47abf324.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...cd174b041a.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...af3f648854.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...14486b0486.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...79a3dfb01f.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...7556b3e517.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...47e6f13eb0.jpg Some of the impressionist paintings. https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d4133a33b7.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...8703d29447.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d66b9c6aff.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...135fa7fcd5.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...a161733c6f.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...c03ef96787.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...5fdff014a1.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d4260a2e32.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...48872e28b2.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d8365cb666.jpg During our visit, the exhibition "Van Gogh - Self Portraits" was running. Here you had to pre-order tickets, but after the allotted time no one looked so closely. https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...76ad295611.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...d1010630cc.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...2d1cb37390.jpg https://cimg6.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...ad8275014d.jpg https://cimg7.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...b4fca10c88.jpg https://cimg8.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4c4ea823d2.jpg https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...70f8f9c3c7.jpg https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...803a14aef0.jpg https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...82104d5d51.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...07a52d5916.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...0c9a426744.jpg https://cimg5.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...71f2027030.jpg |
St. Mary Le Stand
A short visit to St. MAry Le strand, which is located on a traffic island. It´s from the 18th century.
https://cimg2.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...4b4376f104.jpg https://cimg3.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...aa0beb60be.jpg https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/www.fly...71b6521248.jpg |
Been past it many a time in London so nice to see what it looks on the inside.
|
Originally Posted by nequine
(Post 34289476)
Been past it many a time in London so nice to see what it looks on the inside.
|
| All times are GMT -6. The time now is 10:30 am. |
This site is owned, operated, and maintained by MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. Copyright © 2024 MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands. All rights reserved. Designated trademarks are the property of their respective owners.