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made by his mother Bushra Fakhoury. The hotel hosts a rolling artist in residence programme. When it opened, celebrity tattooist Mark Mahoney was on hand to ink guests and visitors that included Johnny Depp. The dark, theatrical aesthetic continues upstairs in many of the suites: think four-poster beds, heavy draping and freestanding bathtubs – after all, the mandrake was once considered an aphrodisiac too. The penthouse, however, feels like it is more inclined to the spiritual and healing traits of the plant. Floor-to-ceiling windows and white
The Mandrake is strange, unexpected and unlike anything I’ve experienced Veronese marble make the already sprawling space seem even airier, but quirks including a steampunk-style chandelier; a fur-lined, hornadorned throne; and an embellished Venetian mask left in the walk-in wardrobe are constant reminders of the hotel’s fantasy alter ego. The sparkling marble continues in the enormous bathroom, where a jacuzzi is shaded by a tree made of ostrich feathers. You can open a skylight window to watch the moon and stars as the bubbles change colour around you. The balcony overlooks the central courtyard, which overflows with wild, hanging flora such as passion flower and jasmine. There’s also a glasshouse full of exotic species on the second floor of the hotel, where you can dine privately or simply while away an afternoon. The penthouse suite can also host one of the spiritual wellbeing treatments that the hotel offers, including the Mandrake’s Soul Revival that comprises a Hawaiian full body massage by expert masseuse Slavomir Latko, followed by sound therapy. This experience involves drums being placed on your head, chest and stomach, then beaten gently and rhythmically in order to massage your internal organs. It’s said to sometimes bring out inexplicable emotions and reactions: I have to admit, I had to stifle a giggle or two.
The hotel’s restaurant, Serge et le Phoque, was a thrilling prospect for London when it opened, as the original Hong Kong outpost holds a Michelin star. The interior is stylish yet relaxed, and I particularly loved the whimsical French pop songs playing in the background. The contemporary French menu is well-executed and unusual, without being fussy or overcomplicated. Highlights included skewered Cornish mussels served with a cube of fried parmesan tapioca, Basque beef with artichokes, and a divine dacquoise with vanilla pastry cream. The Mandrake is strange and unexpected, and completely unlike anything I’ve ever experienced in London. But just how Hogwarts welcomed Harry Potter, it makes you feel completely at home. Penthouse suite, from £4,500, bed and breakfast, 20-21 Newman Street, W1T, mandrake.com
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