Berkshire Hotel,
350 Oxford Street,
Mayfair,
London,
W1C 1BY
0872 148 2402
Note: Calls cost 10p per min plus network extras.
The ViewLondon Review
Ascots is a quiet, civilised place for a drink when doing a spot of shopping on Oxford Street.
The Venue
Ascots Bar is located in the Radisson Edwardian Berkshire hotel near Bond Street tube on the north side of Oxford Street. A wedge-shaped building with the point situated away from the busy street, the comfortable bar and restaurant are housed in the point. This means the floor-to-ceiling windows on both sides flood the space with light by day.
Seating includes low black sofas (ideal for reading the paper with a coffee) and table seating for dining. With dark wood and leather against a clean beige background it is certainly very striking. There are subtle red Asian carved wooden decorations that give it a slightly Eastern flavour.
The Atmosphere
Not many people seem to realize that Ascots Bar is here as it is rarely very busy, so the service is friendly and efficient. In terms of the space, there is a slight chain-hotel feel - a certain Kelly Hoppen blandness that suggests a similar scheme run across a variety of Radisson locations. However, the windows, which allow for a constantly changing scenery outside, liven it all up.
The Food
The bar menu offers usual fare such as pizza, afternoon tea, desserts, soup, sandwiches and salads; but also more intriguing options such as kebabs. Prices are reasonable for a hotel bar in Central London.
The Drink
There is a limited beer selection, but a decent choice of wine by the glass or bottle. There are further wine and Champagne options on a separate list available. The menu also includes cocktails and spirits.
The Last Word
When you can't take the hustle of Oxford Street any longer, Ascots is a nice place to recharge your batteries.
Ascots Bar has been reviewed by 2 users