Grosvenor House,
Park Lane,
W1K 7TN
0872 148 2372
The ViewLondon Review
The Park Room offers all the extravagance and sophistication you would expect from the dining room of such a prestigious hotel.The VenueSituated on Park Lane within the sumptuous Grosvenor Hotel, The Park Room is suitably refined, boasting decor that nods to the traditional elegance of its location. Comfortable, yet still lavish, sofa seating means there are informal areas in which to relax, whilst the dining tables offer a more formal alternative in which to eat. A marble table acts as a centrepiece, showcasing a number of desserts and extravagant floral design. Window tables are a good choice, benefiting from admirable views of Park Lane and out toward Hyde Park. Be careful though, this can be selfishly adulterated by lowly serfs peering in. They really should have blinds.
The AtmosphereDespite the undoubted luxury that The Park Room boasts, the surprising thing is the disparity of its visitors. In being open to the public as well as guests of the hotel, the venue results in being a prime spot for concluding deals, catching up with acquaintances, and of course, impressing. Thus many of those dining are dressed according to their business – some casually, some formally. This actually helps create an atmosphere that is lighter than you might expect – something that is comforting to those that might not be used to such stately indulgence. This is helped by the service, which although impeccable, is never overbearing, stuffy or patronising. To complement it all, and in essence, summing up the atmosphere, is a talented pianist classically interpreting contemporary songs.
The FoodThe Park Room is open all day and offers a selection of light breakfasts, canapes and dinners but it is its afternoon tea that really impresses. Offering an a la carte selection is perfect in allowing visitors choice and gives them free reign on delicious sandwiches, fresh berry fruits, crumpets and more. For those more inclined to indecision, there are set teas which vary in price and size. Anna’s Tea is a good place to start, offering sandwiches, buttermilk scones with clotted cream, strawberry jam and honey, a selection of French pastries and your choice of tea. Needless to say, the standard is superlative, and happily the prices aren’t too intimidating.
The DrinkWith such a fine selection of teas available tea lovers will be well pleased and the quality really is good. There’s an impressive array including Earl Grey, Pure Ceylon, Chinese Keemun and of course, English Breakfast. There are coffees available too, including authentic Turkish, so those who steer clear of the leaf can indulge in something stronger. Those wishing for something stronger still can complement their afternoon tea with Champagne, of which there is a selection befitting such an establishment - but obviously there are some hefty price tags too. For those looking for even further choice, the hypnotic Red Bar lies next door and looks the perfect place to retire to.
The Last WordThe Park Room has all the luxury you’d expect from somewhere within Park Lane’s biggest five star hotel, and it manages to exhibit it all without being snooty. Bravo.