Openings: London Invaded by Posh Hotels, Steak
Ken Scrudato
April 23, 2008
Bloody ‘ell. Visiting London these days has become almost as expensive as Sir Paul’s divorce. But Blighty’s capital is swinging more than ever, so we can’t think of a better investment for those who ... love to swing. And brilliant new openings abound for your bedding and partying pleasures. For cultured epicures, the venerated Cadogan Hotel -- where once cavorted such icons of scandal as Oscar Wilde (who was arrested here) and Lillie Langtry -- has been given a swish new update as of April 15. The hotel's elegant Edwardian rooms are now jazzed up with snappy contemporary touches, and the restaurant also got itself a designer update.
For something a little more modish, the ponderously delayed and finally opening (in May) new Franklin Hotel has a garden-facing lobby and sexy rooms with fired-oak floors, as well as The Dining Room, a chic new destination bar and restaurant (and Harrods for a neighbor, god help you). For the more classically inclined, as of early this April, the staggeringly opulent, unapologetically poshy Lanesborough Hotel has a dashing new Adam D. Tihany-designed luxe Italian eatery, Apsley’s, with grandiose ceilings and an even grander wine list. Noted London chef Nick Bell helms the kitchen. And finally, as of April 9, London’s futuristic O2 Arena can now claim a branch of the swank Argentine-inspired steakhouse and nightlife destination Gaucho, with its own wine tasting cellar, VIP suite, and buzzy cocktail lounge. As for inevitable massive credit card bill, just remember what mum always told you: penny wise, pound foolish. Righto, then.
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