Month: June 2024

Mayfair, one of London’s most prestigious neighbourhoods, is known for its luxury shopping, iconic landmarks, and unparalleled dining scene. This summer, Mayfair offers many must-try restaurants that promise unforgettable culinary experiences. Mayfair restaurants offer luxury, Michelin stars, flavour sensations, experiences, and activities galore. Discover the list below for everything from traditional luxury dinners to unique immersive experiences—each is a top dining destination in Mayfair that should be on your radar.

Sketch

Sketch is not just a restaurant; it is an immersive art experience. Located on Conduit Street, this quirky 18th-century townhouse tea room transforms into a cocktail lounge every evening. It offers a variety of dining spaces, each with its own unique theme. With its iconic pink decor and ever-changing art exhibits, the Gallery is perfect for a stylish afternoon tea. For dinner, the Lecture Room & Library offers an exquisite tasting menu crafted by Chef Pierre Gagnaire. Sketch’s combination of art, ambience, and avant-garde cuisine makes it a must-visit.

Hélène Darroze at The Connaught

Hélène Darroze’s restaurant at the luxurious Connaught Hotel is a marvel. The venue is ideal for those who want something a little more traditional with a dining experience offering precision, passion, and innovation. Inspired by Hélène’s travels and heritage, the menu features dishes that celebrate the finest seasonal ingredients. Choose the tasting menu with wine pairings for a truly memorable meal. The beautifully restored dining room adds to the refined atmosphere with its warm oak panelling and soft lighting.

Sexy Fish

Sexy Fish, located on Berkeley Square, is renowned for its vibrant decor and lively atmosphere. This Asian-inspired seafood restaurant features stunning artwork by Damien Hirst and Frank Gehry, creating a visually captivating dining environment. The menu boasts a variety of sushi, sashimi, and seafood dishes, all prepared with a contemporary twist. The bar at Sexy Fish is also a highlight, offering an impressive selection of cocktails and rare whiskies. For a fun and luxurious dining experience, Sexy Fish is hard to beat.

Benares

Benares, an upscale Indian restaurant on Berkeley Square, offers a sophisticated take on traditional Indian cuisine. With its elegant decor and serene ambience, Benares provides an exceptional dining experience. The menu, curated by Chef Atul Kochhar, features innovative dishes that blend British ingredients with Indian spices. Signature dishes include the smoked Malabar prawns and the lamb Rogan Josh. The restaurant also offers an impressive selection of wines and cocktails, expertly paired with the cuisine’s bold flavours. Benares is perfect for those seeking a refined and contemporary Indian dining experience.

Scott’s

A Mayfair institution, Scott’s on Mount Street has served exceptional seafood since 1851. The elegant oyster bar and sophisticated dining room make Scott’s a favourite among celebrities and food enthusiasts. The menu is a testament to British seafood, with dishes like Dorset crab, langoustines, and the famed Fish and chips. The extensive wine list and impeccable service add to the restaurant’s timeless appeal, making Scott’s a must-visit.

Stay in Mayfair

When you want to stay close by while exploring Mayfair’s culinary landscape, there is no better accommodation than the Mansley Serviced Apartments in Mayfair. Each aparthotel is luxurious, spacious, and elegantly decorated, offering a seamless blend of luxury, comfort, and convenience for business and leisure travellers who want to be close to Mayfair’s culinary scene.

London’s Royal Borough of Kensington is a vibrant area renowned for its affluent residences, rich history, and cultural significance. There is so much for visitors to see and do, making Kensington a must-visit destination in the heart of London. 

Historic Sites

Kensington was granted the title of a Royal Borough in 1901 in recognition of Queen Victoria’s birthplace at Kensington Palace. The palace is still a royal residence and a public museum, showcasing royal artifacts and the beautiful Sunken Garden, a favourite spot of Princess Diana. The borough’s history is steeped in royal connections, evident in its grand architecture and the ceremonial naming of its streets and squares.

Cultural Attractions

Kensington is a cultural hub with attractions that cater to all interests and a variety of must-see museums. The Victoria and Albert Museum is the world’s largest applied and decorative arts and design museum. The Natural History Museum and The Science Museum draw millions of visitors annually with interactive exhibits and historic collections. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Design Museum, and history buffs will enjoy Leighton House & Sambourne House. Kensington is also home to the Royal College of Music and the Royal Albert Hall, an iconic venue hosting concerts ranging from classical to pop and rock.

Shopping and Dining

High Street Kensington offers a blend of high-end brands and boutique shops, making it a prime destination for fashion lovers. The street also has numerous cafes and restaurants, offering everything from quick bites to luxurious dining experiences. For a more unique shopping experience, Kensington Church Street is known for its antique shops and art galleries. Kensington Market is a vibrant spot to explore, featuring a range of international cuisines, fresh produce, and quirky merchandise. It’s a perfect place to enjoy the lively local atmosphere and sample global flavours.

Green Spaces

Kensington’s green spaces provide a tranquil escape from the city hustle. Kensington Gardens, once the private gardens of Kensington Palace, are now open to the public and offer a peaceful retreat with beautifully manicured lawns and ornate flower beds. The gardens also feature the Serpentine Gallery, which hosts contemporary exhibitions. Holland Park is another charming spot in the borough. Known for its wildlife and sports facilities, the park also contains the Kyoto Garden, a Japanese garden gifted by the Chamber of Commerce of Kyoto in 1991.

Staying in Kensington

Kensington is highly coveted due to its prime location, excellent amenities, and historical significance. The area boasts some of the most expensive real estate in the world, characterised by elegant Victorian and Georgian houses. The borough has many places to stay, including aparthotels and apartments. For a luxurious and comfortable stay, try Mansley’s Kensington Serviced Apartments in the heart of the action. The accommodation is ideal for a weekend break or a longer getaway.

Plan Your Kensington Stay

The Royal Borough of Kensington blends history, culture, and modern luxury. It offers everything, from world-class museums and shopping to quiet parks and vibrant markets. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or just looking for a picturesque area to explore, Kensington promises a memorable experience with its unique charm and rich heritage.