London Calling
All eyes are on London this summer and whatever your reason for visiting, you'll find new boutique hotels to pamper yourself and a bevy of new hotspots to taste the latest culinary and cocktail trends.
SLEEP: Just opened in Knightsbridge, the sleek and luxurious Bulgari Hotel is a captivating piece of architecture unlike any of it's more traditional neighbors. The 85 rooms are done in oak, mahogany, leather and silver and the spa boasts itself as one of London's largest.
The Dorset Square Hotel,has recently been revamped by Kit Kemp(of the Firmdale Group)with a fresh and vibrant injection of colour. Each of the 38 rooms in the Regency townhouse has been individually designed with one-off pieces, original art and many with views that overlook the private garden square. The Marylebone location puts it in walking distance to Regent's Park and Galleries.
EAT & DRINK: One of the most talked about new restaurants in town is Dabbous. The industrial chic space in Fitzrovia showcases chef Ollie Dabbous's days working with the great molecular chefs of modern gastronomy. Expect small, creative plates that will tickle your taste buds.
Soho London meets Soho NYC at La Bodega Negra. This two story Mexican entices diners from the hidden street level entrance behind a sex shop sign to the candlelit downstairs restaurant and tequila bar. Serge Becker of NYC's La Esquina pairs with London restauranteurs to raise the bar on London's Mexican food scene.
Also in Soho and on the radar of local foodies and critics is 10 Greek Street. The unassuming décor and casual ambiance hits the mark with its modern European menu, prepared in an open kitchen, and the moderately priced global wine list.
Let the Games begin.
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