insideKENT Magazine Issue 52 - July 2016 | Page 125

GETAWAYS Refined Luxury at Baglioni Hotel, London When it comes to hospitality, no one does it like the Italians; and if we're talking five-star, no one does it quite like Baglioni Hotel London. BY SARAH GREEN Boasting unrivalled views of the historic Kensington Palace and Gardens, Baglioni Hotel London is the ideal getaway for a cheeky weekend city break. Pair your stay with a trip to the on-site spa and the newly redesigned Osteria 60 restaurant, and you have a luxury escape second to none. After a swift check-in, I entered the lift in a bid to discover my first-floor suite – a spacious room with opulent furnishings, a separate lounge area, complete with a desk, well stocked bar and espresso machine; a beautifully decorated bedroom; and a contemporary, luxurious en suite bathroom. Whether it's room service, a chauffeur-driven car or personal butler, at Baglioni, guests want for nothing – and that's just how the dedicated team like it. Whiles guests can relax the hours away in their room, gazing at the views of Kensington Gardens and beyond, there's also an on-site fitness centre and renovated spa in which to relax your body and mind. Opting for the former, I enjoyed a (rare) tranquil couple of hours and hot espresso before heading down to the intimate Osteria 60 for dinner. Facing Kensington Gardens, on the ground floor of the Baglioni Hotel, this intimate eatery is a versatile area featuring ambiances with luxurious details: comfortable chocolate browns and golds adorn the floors, walls and furnishings, and the designer bar not only dominates the room in terms of design, but offers an impressive selection of wines and spirits. Served by the impeccable waiting team, my guest and I kicked off proceedings with a recommended glass of Prosecco (it would be rude not to), and a warm freshly baked loaf of Italian bread and salted butter. In the way of starters, our desire to try some 'proper' Italian delicacies prevailed and we opted for the Osteria 60 calamari with tomato pappa and mozzarella, and the smoked heritage beetroots with buffalo ricotta – both of which paid testament to the menu's Mediterranean influence and chef's desire to conserve many original perfumes and flavours. Next up and my Osteria 60 Parmigiana was a dish to commemorate. Having grown up in an Italian household, aubergine parmesan is something of a speciality in my family, but this Osteria 60 version may just give my grandmother a run for her money. Presented as a whole stuffed aubergine, rather than the traditional layers of alternating sauce/cheese/vegetable, the Baglioni’s unique take on this traditional dish was a sure winner. My guest's lamb chops with Sicilian aubergine caponata was equally impressive; melt-in-themouth tender with an aromatic kick. 'Dessert?' was a rhetorical question if I ever have heard one. Without hesitation I opted for the classic tiramisu; and my guest enjoyed a light and creamy ‘Chocolate Mondrian’ – both utterly delicious. Bravissimo! Retiring to our room, the sumptuous, comfy bed made for a restful night's sleep prior to, you guessed it, more food! Included in our package, breakfast was served back in Osteria 125 60 where guests can pick from a continental buffet or à la carte menu, which offers cuisine such as eggs Benedict, full English, and salmon and scrambled egg (my dish of choice). Fuelled for the day, it was time to check out, but not before thanking the warm, professional team that had looked after us throughout our stay and done its utmost to offer a home from home. But the buck doesn't stop here; this boutique chain runs a host of luxury hotels with sites in Italy, France and Marrakech – each renowned for their gracious welcome, elegant interiors, matchless service and unrivalled locations. More than just an overnight stay, the hotel series pledges 'the unforgettable Italian touch', and has done since 1974. Preserving a certain prestige, it prides itself on upping the guest experience from ordinary to extraordinary – an ethos for which Baglioni Hotel London is the perfect model. Baglioni Hotel London 60 Hyde Park Gate Kensington London SW7 5BB 020 7368 5700 [email protected] www.baglionihotels.com/category/ baglioni-hotel-london @baglioni_hotels