23 Orchard Street,
Marylebone,
London,
W1H 6HL
(020) 7224 4699
The ViewLondon Review
As nightclub gurus Nick House and Piers Adam (Whisky Mist, Mahiki etc) are behind this new venue, it’s been highly anticipated on the central London party circuit. Now that’s officially open, as long as you can navigate your way past the tight door policy, you can expect a sophisticated, theatrical evening combined with the most affable of welcomes.
The Venue
Centrally located near Selfridges and Bond Street Tube, yet slightly off the beaten track, Rose has discreet black lacquered doors that open to unveil a red staircase leading down to the basement club. Predominately a members’ and guestlist club, it is also more relaxed to those turning up and looking good (but you should expect to be vetted). It’s currently in the first phase of its opening as there are promises of a roof terrace, restaurant and flower shop in the coming year.
The basement has opulent red and black décor spread across one huge open-plan room. Mirrors cling to the ceiling and walls creating the effect of a musical jewellery box, while brass finishes with screw detail, a feature that looks inspired by the Cartier Love bangle, are lovely bespoke touches. A long bar takes up one end of the club and the clusters of banquettes and tables are littered with ice buckets whilst shelves below are laced with carafes of mixers.
The Atmosphere
Once you navigate your way past the doormen and descend, the first thing you see are the beautiful waitresses in sequinned tutu-style dresses with high ballet buns, whose reflections in the mirrors above make them look like twirling ballerinas in jewellery boxes. This theme continues to a bevy of professional ballerinas, who warm up and then perform intermittently throughout the evening, dancing to opera, classical and dance music. Balanced on their pointes, they wouldn’t look out of place in The Royal Ballet.
Naturally, a well-heeled crowd trickle through with a sprinkle of club-going celebrities, and dancing on the banquettes seems obligatory as the crowd swells.
The Music
Classical and opera music fills the space early evening, before it turns into a louder mix of house and dance. Floor-to-ceiling strobe lights take effect in the latter hours too.
The Drink
Tables can be pre-booked with a minimum spend of two bottles, however the attentive service is not just reserved for those with tables - which is rare in this type of club. A bottle of Ciroc vodka is £80 and champagne bottles (Moet & Chandon, £85), magnums and jeroboams sit alongside classic cocktails (£10-£12). The exquisite tailored ‘sharing’ drinks are worth considering if you’re part of a group - the Blossom Tray (£70) is made up of 16 passion fruit shots served in beautiful baby pink shot glasses with long stems.
The Last Word
With new bars and clubs opening every week in the capital, Rose’s original concept makes it a beautiful new jewel in London’s nightlife. Practice those pirouettes and head down early to make sure you stand a chance of enjoying this theatrical addition.
Rose has been reviewed by 18 users