Pursuitist Presents a Culinary Visit to Nobu Hotel London Portman Square – A Luxury Travel Insider’s Review.
Pursuitist sets the stage by stepping into the world of Nobu Hospitality – the epitome of opulence, founded by the star-studded trio, master chef Nobu Matsuhisa, renowned actor Robert De Niro, and celebrated movie producer Meir Teper. Their latest crown jewel, Nobu Hotel London Portman Square, has graced the vibrant city of London, paving the way for their rapid global growth which ultimately aspires to reach a grand portfolio of 30+plus luxury hotels worldwide.
The Setting
Sitting elegantly in the heart of the fashionable Marylebone neighbourhood, this property is the latest marvel born from the successful collaboration between L+R Hotels and Nobu Hospitality. Housing 249 tastefully designed rooms, this property features a plethora of facilities. It flaunts a signature Nobu Penthouse, an exclusive Nobu Pilates studio, and a stylish Nobu bar and restaurant, to name a few.
The Ambience
Upon entering the hotel, one is greeted with a contemporary blend of aesthetics and hospitality. Drawing inspiration from Japanese architectural disciplines and minimalist design, the property features a refined color palette influenced by traditional Japanese color combinations. The interior decor gracefully transitions from the bright and airy lobby to the darker, more sensuous rooms. Thanks to the award-winning David Collins Studio, the public spaces, bar, and restaurant of the hotel exude a unique aesthetic charm, focusing on exceptional craftsmanship. This is evident from the hand-blown glass chandeliers, bespoke lighting, large-scale sculptures, and original artworks that adorn the hotel.
The Gastronomy
The Nobu bar and restaurant, the hotel’s gastronomic centerpiece, is an experience in itself. Located on the first floor, with the main restaurant one floor above, the Nobu bar presents a delightful Roku Japanese Gin Garden during clement weather. Here, guests can savor the floral and sweet aroma of cherry blossom in the Roku Gin cocktails, while basking in the spring-like ambiance of the ornately designed terrace.
Moreover, with the opening of the hotel, London’s Nobu Berkeley Street restaurant finds its new home in Marylebone. Carrying forward a 15-year legacy of exceptional culinary experiences, the Nobu Restaurant brings the brand’s signature handcrafted approach to cuisine and service into this novel space. The guests can relish signature Nobu dishes along with Berkeley Street favorites, all served in addition to a full complement of sushi and sashimi, and Nobu’s famed omakase multi-course tasting menu.
The Accommodation
When it comes to accommodation, the hotel offers seven distinct categories of rooms and suites, with many boasting terraces with captivating views overlooking Portman Square. Right at the top are the four suite categories, including the celeb-worthy two-bedroom Nobu Penthouse, offering incredible 360-degree views of London.
Designed by Make Architects, the interiors of the rooms and suites encapsulate the distinct allure seen throughout the hotel. They are characterized by striking wall prints, bespoke lighting, intricate carpentry, set against a backdrop of a subtle, textural palette. The abundant natural light and materials lend a calming and warm ambiance to the rooms.
The Art
Throughout the hotel, guests and visitors can appreciate an impressive collection of contemporary art pieces. Many of these custom commissions reference traditional Asian art and Japanese craftsmanship but are rendered in thoroughly modern mediums and modes of expression. This subtle mix of past and present creates an environment of restrained elegance and purity of design, offering something new to discover with every visit.
In conclusion, Nobu Hotel London Portman Square isn’t just about surface-level luxury, it invites you to delve beneath its glossy exterior. It boasts a unique sense of place and layers of aesthetic interest. Each visit uncovers something new and offers compelling reasons to return. For the discerning luxury traveler, Nobu Hotel London Portman Square is an amalgamation of fine design, exceptional service, and exquisite food, all coming together in an entirely unique style. For a near-mythical, indulgent (and mind-blowingly tasty) dining experience followed by a calming sleep in the bedrooms, this hotel is definitely worth a visit. As Pursuitist continues to explore the world of luxury, the journey into the next haven of grandeur awaits.