Opulent Escape

Located overlooking Sloane Street, with fantastic views over the capital and Cadogan Gardens, The Carlton Tower Jumeirah is the global luxury hospitality company's European flagship hotel.

Reopened in July last year, following an 18-month closure for refurbishment, the hotel enjoys an enviable position in the heart of Knightsbridge.

Maintaining its world-renowned reputation for first class service and meticulous attention to detail, and has been reinvented for a new generation of discerning guests, the hotel underwent the most extensive transformation in its history, at a cost of over £100 million. Every corner of the 17-story building was redesigned, creating a new foyer and reception, 186 new bedrooms and suites reduced from 216 to offer larger accommodations, a new health club and spa with London’s largest naturally lit swimming pool, a restaurant, Lobby bar and lounge, ballroom and meeting rooms.

Originally opened in 1961 as London's first tower hotel, and celebrating for being the tallest in London at the time, Carlton Tower was the place to see and be seen and still is today.

Designed by Henry End, who is also responsible for the interiors of the Plaza Hotel in New York, the hotel is now transformed by esteemed interior and architecture design studio ‘1508 London’. The design practice has drawn on the hotel’s glamorous heritage and location to create a modern classic with a timeless, refined interior and sense of grandeur. Respectful of the building’s original, clean modernist style, 1508 London has layered the eclectic mix of the architecture of the surrounding mansion blocks and homes, adding soft curved edges, pops of bright colour and organic inspired forms throughout.

Each of the 186 beautifully renovated guest rooms offers guests a sense of peace and calm in the heart of the busy city. Almost 50% of the keys at The Carlton Tower are suites, reflecting the hotel patrons’ historical preference for increased space and longer stays. And whats-more, 87 of the rooms and suites boasts a balcony, taking advantage of the stunning views across London.

Sumptuous and modern, the well-equipped rooms and suites feature a light colour palette of calming blues, green and maroon in a nod to great British heritage. Luxurious bedding and soft furnishings fill the room, as floor to ceiling marble bathrooms provide the perfect setting to relax and get ready with toiletries by Grown Alchemist. The Royal Suite is the hotel’s most exclusive residence featuring three bedrooms with the option to privatise the entire floor for the utmost in security and discretion.

The Carlton Tower

JUMEIRAH, KNIGHTSBRIDGE

Back downstairs, dining offerings at the hotel include a decadent afternoon tea at The Chinoiserie and the fabulous Italian restaurant, Al Mare.

Translating to 'At the sea', the luxurious dining room welcomes guests for breakfast, lunch and dinner and features a theatre kitchen, private dining room and al fresco dining on the terrace.

The hotel’s Executive Chef and Al Mare’s Head Chef is Italian native Marco Calenzo, who joined the hotel from Zuma where he was Executive Chef, has created a modern, light Italian menu for all to enjoy.

Highlights include signature dishes such as tonno al tartufo nero, seared Bluefin Tuna and black truffle dressing; carpaccio di manzo, beef carpaccio, rocket, parmesan cheese and datterino tomato; agnolotti del plin, chicken and aged parmesan cheese parcels with armagnac sauce.

Designed to share, the menu also includes tempting mains of Dover sole, lemon and parsley; veal sirloin Milanese style; and pan seared lamb in herb crust with Sicilian vegetable caponata.

Desserts don't disappoint either with classic tiramisu; black Peruvian chocolate tart; and an indulgent French toast 'creme brûlée' with Madagascar vanilla ice cream.

While staying at the hotel, guests can also enjoy access to the Cadogan Gardens. With ample green space and tennis courts, the private gardens are normally only open to residents and are the perfect place for an evening stroll after dinner!

Speaking of burning off dinner, the hotel's health club, 'The Peak Fitness Club & Spa' is set across three floors and features London's largest pool in a hotel. The Peak offers studio classes, and a gym featuring bespoke ‘Technogym’ equipment on the ninth floor, which overlooks The Peak’s light-filled cafe with breath-taking panoramic views across the capital. With its new design and features as well as a strictly limited membership, The Peak is the place to workout in privacy.

Afterwards lie back on one of the poolside cabanas and enjoy the views across the capital through the double height glass ceiling.

The new treatment rooms at the Talise Spa offer a range of treatments from top brands including 111SKIN, Omorovicza, and Aromatherapy Associates, as well as signature treatments.

The Jumeirah Revitalising Massage in particular is ideal for awakening and restoring energy to the body. This full body, deep tissue massage, features ancient therapeutic techniques, deep flowing movements, acupressure point stimulation and progressive stretching. An additional brightening express face treatment is included in the 90 minute massage.

MIDDLE EIGHT

Effortlessly elegant, eternally stylish, Middle Eight is a luxury lifestyle hotel in the heart of Covent Garden. Offering 168 rooms, with five room types and 12 suites, the hotel blends sustainably sourced materials with state of the art amenities.

From Shiva Hotels, the property takes its name from the term “middle eight,” a type of musical interlude or bridge that differs in character from a song’s melody and is used to inject variety through a change of key or tempo.

Middle Eight follows this harmony by offering modern accommodation with a strong nod to local heritage and character. The interiors the hotel are all inspired by nature. The use of a soft and tonal colour palette, high ceilings, with natural materials of stone and wood, create a calm and relaxing atmosphere proving a luxurious home away from home for guests.

The impressive building dates back to 1912. Originally a Methodist church called Kingsway Hall, its legendary acoustics saw it become one of the world’s leading studios for the recording of classical and film music. Although completely rebuilt and reimagined, Middle Eight continues that rich history of live music and performances through its dining and entertainment venues, the latter spearheaded by the hotel’s speakeasy, QT.

From the handcrafted, reclaimed oak reception desk to the five room categories - Cosy Pad, Classic Chic, Urban Deluxe, Superior Street and Executive Style - each aspect of the hotel ensures continuity and style throughout. No space is wasted and bespoke furniture further enhances the lavish yet understated appeal of the hotel.

Comfort is of utmost importance, with gigantic beds, high thread count Egyptian cotton linen, and the use of natural renewable materials in each room. All the toiletries are carefully selected for their sustainable nature and the bathrobes are made using recycled plastic. Every room also features Nespresso coffee machines, 42” flatscreen TVs, soundbars with Chromecast and fibre to the room high-speed complimentary wifi.

Aptly named after pieces of music with a middle eight bridge, Middle Eight’s suites set new standards for hotel living. Spacious, welcoming and almost too difficult to ever want to leave, the spaces are the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Nature at the heart as always, a signature feature in several of the suites is an enclosed indoor garden flooded with natural light. Two other suites enjoy secluded outdoor terraces, perfect for al fresco dining and entertaining.

Back downstairs, the lively atmosphere of Covent Garden is maintained in the hotel's bar and restaurant. Sycamore Vino Cucina is a contemporary bar and restaurant inspired by the desire to deliver an authentic Italian experience.

Working on a sharing concept, guests can enjoy watching the action in the open kitchen before enjoying handmade pizzas, small plates of fresh cicchetti, and decadent desserts.

Again, following a natural, warm and light colour palette the restaurant follows through to the buzzy bar. With double-height floor to ceiling windows overlooking Great Queen Street, the bar is a great place to watch the world go by whilst sampling a draft Italian beer or indulging in a signature take on the classic Negroni cocktail.

Upstairs on The Balcony, guests looking for some privacy can enjoy a quieter setting to relax, hold a meeting or even play board games. Along with both lounge style and booth seating, the space boasts workspace areas and a curated library with books focusing on art, London, sustainability and ecology.

Equally those looking to burn off all that indulgence can enjoy Middle Eight's lower floor state-of-the-art gym where personal training is also available. Discreet and attentive, service at the hotel is as hands on as you want it to be. Never disturbed without wanting to be, staff are on hand for guest's every need without being overbearing. Whilst delivering an emphasis on providing guests with a bespoke, unique experience, Middle Eight maintains a conscience when it comes to both people and the environment which is integral to the decisions the hotel makes. Middle Eight is a Preferred Hotels & Resorts’ partner and is showcased within the brand’s luxury L.V.X. Collection. Room rates at Middle Eight start from £285 per room and £800 per suite per night.

ITALIAN STYLE

Sparrow launches in Mayfair bringing with it a substantial dose of Italian style, and it's not just reserved for the food. The restaurant has been immaculately finished in the chicest Mediterranean style delivering a dining experience you won't want to miss.

THE LONDON CABARET CLUB LAUNCHES 'QUEEN OF ROSES'

Enjoy an evening of royal entertainment with a distinctly modern twist thanks to the London Cabaret Club's new show 'Queen of Roses'.

Inspired by Britain's three longest reigning monarchs, guests can expect world-class singing choreography, acrobatics, and aerial performances celebrating all that is majestic, royal and undeniably British.

Launching this month, from the creators of previous shows such as All About Gatsby, the show explores key moments from Queen Elizabeth I, Queen Elizabeth II and Queen Victoria's reign.

Taking place in the Bloomsbury Ballroom, the fully immersive show is full of surprises ranging from top-class ballet and operatic renditions to high flying acrobatics and the Queen's very own drummers. The show-stopping performances come thick and fast, thrusting you back to the royal days gone by with a throughly modern twist.

Beginning with drinks in the Rose Bar and pre-performances from singers, the entertainment is served alongside a gourmet menu and innovative cocktails. Guests can choose from the likes of Dorset Crab and Caviar served on French Toast; Chicken Roulette with Truffle; and Strip Loin, Parsnip Puree, Textured Onions and Black Garlic Jus. Vegan options include Roasted Cauliflower and Chimichurri; and Dark Chocolate Mousse.

From the decadent menu - with varying packages to include wine and champagne - to enthralling costumes, every part of the show embodies the theme to ensure a wonderful night ahead. The atmosphere is like no other.

Founded by CEO Evelina Girling and Artistic Director Doni Fierro in 2013, The London Cabaret Club is a fantastic evening out, whether that be for a special occasion or simply something different.

Commenting on the launch of Queen of Roses, Evelina said: “Our Queen of Roses is the crème de la crème and we are thrilled to be bringing this back to our iconic London venue. British royal history is steeped in glamour, romance and treason, and these components truly are the prefect ingredients for a majestic cabaret show. The vintage style costumes and explosive choreography will ensure this show remains in the memory of our guests for years to come.”

The London Cabaret Club is a pioneering entertainment experience in the heart of the capital, combining elegant dining and world-class performances with spectacular service. Tickets start from £50.00. For more information on The London Cabaret Club, visit thelondoncabaretclub.com

Lilly’s Café, located on Covent Garden’s Piazza, has launched a gloriously cosy winter terrace complete with a brand-new fondue and hot cocktail menu.

The perfect seasonal setting, complete with heated seats and warm blankets, owner, former Claridge’s executive pastry chef, Kimberley Lin, has created the indulgent Lilly’s Swiss Gruyere Fondue for the occasion. Made up of a gooey blend of Swiss Gruyere Cheese, Swiss Emmenthal, White Wine, and a touch of Brandy, the indulgent fondue is served with cubes of bread and warm new potatoes. Enjoy alongside a glass of Lilly’s Mulled Wine (£12) made from Zinfandel wine, maple and brandy with winter spices, fresh orange and berries expects to become a winter staple, or even a decadent Amaretto Coffee (£13) made with coffee, coffee liquor and topped with caramel cream. If you prefer your cocktail refreshing and sparkling, the Sleigh Ride (£14) keeps it suitably festive with Cognac, Cointreau, Orange, and Cranberry Juice topped with Champagne then garnished with rosemary (£14).

Lilly’s regular menu celebrates the use of natural and globally inspired food, together with expectational desserts and cakes from Kimberly Lin and can also be enjoyed on the outside terrace.

This Christmas, the famed bakery PAUL, is teaming up with charity WrapUp London to make sure everyone feels the warmth of the festive season.

On 2nd November, PAUL will be inviting Londoners from all over the city to bring their unused or preloved coats to their City of London store at Tower 42, to donate to those in greater need through charity WrapUp London. In addition to kickstarting the campaign, PAUL will also be donating 50p from every Pain Au Chocolat Orange sold across PAUL stores in London over the festive season to WrapUp London.

For over 10 years now, WrapUp London has been on a mission to support those living in crisis, across the capital. They have proved that a coat doesn’t just provide warmth; it is often a gateway for someone to access services to help them get back on their feet.

From 2nd November, Christmas really has arrived in London - the PAUL Christmas menu launches, London’s famous Oxford Street Christmas lights turn on, and the city somehow feels cosier. Customers visiting the Tower 42 store on this day need only turn up with their coat for donation, hand it over to a PAUL member of staff, and walk away with a free Pain Au Chocolat Orange. After almost 18,000 warm winter coats were donated last year, PAUL is determined to help WrapUp London top that number for the London community and are encouraging their customers to support the cause.

You can donate your coats to WrapUp London on 2nd November at PAUL Bakery, Tower 42, London, EC2N 1HQ. WrapUp London will continue their normal collections at TFL tube stations across the capital from 7th to the 9th November at Kings Cross, Liverpool Street, London Bridge, Moorgate and Waterloo between 7am and 11am each day.

Lilly's Café Winter Terrace

Lilly's Café, 3 Henrietta Street, London, WC2E 8LU | 020 3325 5275 | lillys-cafe.com

PAUL x WrapUp London

INGREDIENTS STICKY TOFFEE PUDDING

450g Water | 750g Dates | 18g Bicarbonate of Soda 418g Margarine | 418g Dark Brown Sugar 750g Gluten-Free Flour | 11g Baking Powder 6g Ground Ginger | 30g Mixed Spice 18g Ground Cinnamon | 900g Rice Milk 50g Apple Vinegar | 66g Oil | 50g Golden Syrup

METHOD

In a heavy bottomed pan, simmer the water with bicarb and dates, until dates are well cooked and very soft. Blitz and pass the dates to a smooth puree and set aside to cool.

Cream the margarine and sugar together in a mixing bowl. Slowly add in the rice milk, apple vinegar, oil and golden syrup, while continually mixing ( I find this all easier in a food mix such as a kitchen aid).

Sieve in flour, baking powder, ground ginger, mixed spice and ground cinnamon. Lastly add in the dates and mix until smooth.

Fill 95g in a greased and tinfoil based ring and bake at 170°C for approximately 35-40 minutes.

Vegan Sticky Toffee Pudding

By Adam Smith

Adam Smith is executive chef at Michelin-starred, Restaurant Coworth Park in Ascot. Named as the Roux Scholar in 2012 and awarded Craft Guild of Chefs Restaurant Chef of the Year in 2015, he joined Coworth Park as executive chef in 2016, overseeing all its culinary outlets, and in 2021 was awarded the Michelin-star for Restaurant Coworth Park for a fourth consecutive year.

A warming post-dinner treat designed by chef Adam Smith, this vegan sticky toffee pudding is the perfect indulgence for these cold Autumnal nights. This dessert is also a sumptuous addition to a dinner party that is sure to impress any guest.

INGREDIENTS STICKY TOFFEE SAUCE

400g Coconut Milk (can) | 150g Light Brown Sugar ½ tsp Salt | 50g Margarine | 1 Vanilla Pod

METHOD

In a heavy bottomed pan, boil the coconut milk, sugar, salt and vanilla for a while, stirring frequently for 4-5 minutes.

Let it cool to around 38°C and emulsify the margarine with a stick blender.

INGREDIENTS VEGAN VANILLA ICE CREAM

400g Coconut Milk | 300g Soya Milk 165g Maple Syrup | 3 Vanilla Pods

METHOD

Heat all ingredients up and combine. Leave to infuse for 1 hour. Pass and leave to cool. When cold place into the ice cream machine and churn.

TO SERVE

I find the best way to reheat the sticky toffee pudding is just to place in the microwave on full heat for 20 seconds under cling film.

Reheat the sauce separately and then pour generously over the top.

Garnish with a few caramelised pecan nuts and a large ball of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy!

YOUR COCKTAIL

Entertaining season is fast approaching and there is nothing better that inviting family and friends to your home to enjoy each other’s company. But don’t get stuck in the kitchen, make sure you experience your own hospitality. Try these ideas for cocktails and paired nibbles so you can relax and enjoy the party.

G’Vine Martini + Seafood Platter Drink

G’Vine is made using grapes rather than grain so the result is a smoother liquid, perfect for making a Martini. To make put both your G’Vine bottle and a martini glass in a freezer for at least 6 hours, now ‘wash’ the glass with vermouth - do this with a quick swirl and then discard excess - now pour G’Vine into the glass and garnish with a lemon peel, twist it above the drink before dropping it in the glass. Eat

A martini pairs very well with fresh seafood; lobster tails, prawns, oysters, scallop carpaccio, smoked trout… you can design it. Salted butter and good bread is mandatory to accompany the dish.

Negroni + Cheeseboard and Olives Drink

Quite simply a Negroni is equal parts gin, vermouth and a drop of orange bitters. Add all ingredients in an Old-Fashioned glass filled with ice, stir with a mixing spoon and decorate your glass with orange peel. Eat

When it comes to the cheeseboard think about the bitterness of the Negroni, it calls for foods with bold flavours and richness to create a balance. Yorkshire pecorino, blue cheese, aged cheddars, and smoked gouda are all a great choice. Don’t forget the olives but lean for the green varieties. Mezcal Cocktail with Smoky Aubergine Dip Drink

Unlike tequila, which is made from agave that has been steamed, mezcal is made from agave that has been roasted, giving it a smoky flavor that tequila doesn’t have. You can swap in mezcal as a base spirit for classic cocktails such as a mule, mojito, margarita, paloma, sour, even a negroni… Eat

Go smoky for your paired nibbles, smoky aubergine dip or baba ganoush is a healthy dip made with mashed aubergine, tahini, olive oil and seasoning. It is incredibly easy to make. Slice aubergines in half and place flat side down and roast in an oven, when totally collapsed take only the flesh and mix with tahini, smoked paprika, smoked salt and lemon juice to taste. It’s that easy.

Need more inspiration?

A simple rule if you need more inspiration is by matching countries; Mexican Palomas and Tacos, Aperol Spritz and Margarita Pizza, Manhattan or Sazerac with BBQ…

This month’s column has been inspired by Fred Sirieix who was recently announced as the first UK ambassador for G’Vine, the French gin made with grapes.