"What’s the backstory? The latest string to actress/model/fashion designer turned hotelier Anouska Hempel’s bow; known for Blake’s in London (her first outpost that opened in 1978) then Singapore’s The Duxton, landscape gardens in Wiltshire and London, and various Van Cleef & Arpels stores and the Louis Vuitton flagship in Paris, she was charged by Greek financier Umbert Saltiel and his son Nicholas to transform their newly acquired space on Rue Washington. It took three years from start to finish, with Hempel putting the French production team through their paces with her exacting standards every step of the way. Set the scene. Piles of fashion books in reception, velvet chairs, gigantic fans in the window and exotic potted plants set the razzle dazzle scene instantly. Rooms are decorated in four different styles: Chequers, Windsor, Benjamin Franklin, and Marly; collectively they create an image of a modern Fitzgerald novel, all classic Hempel; lavish, contrasting fabrics from plush satin to taffeta. The color scheme is strict; greys, biscuit, ebony, and lots of deep greens, bar a respite from the top-floor rooms which are refreshingly (and shockingly for Hempel) white-on-white. The beds are ridiculously comfortable, while bathrooms are defined by crittall windows and sliding lighting (which is, in fact, a huge deal for Hempel—she’s added a Perspex filter to bedside lamps and fought tooth and nail for just the right dim glow throughout the entire hotel). What can we expect in our room? Thick padded slippers, small wardrobes, gorgeous views of Rue Washington below, heavy-to-lift draped velvet curtains. And mirrors. Lots of mirrors. Plus, a mini bar high on drinks, low on snacks. How about the food and drink? Off the lobby, the Galangal restaurant serves a limited menu of Asian-inspired fare like cod fish yellow curry for dinner, plus a daytime menu that spans from Croque Monsieurs and Caesar salads to buckwheat ramen with smoked tofu. Featuring both set and a la carte menus, Sunday brunch, served year-round in the restaurants or on the terrace, is a lively affair that’s a hit with families. Start your days with breakfast (there are three prix fixe options available in the restaurant, or you can get room service), then end them in the cool mirrored bar, where the classic cocktails are made with homemade elixirs. Hempel’s tipple of choice is a Whiskey Sour, but there’s also a wine cellar with tables and chairs where people fall on cheese platters and clarets of Bordeaux. What’s the crowd like? Smart. Well-turned out affluent French locals, and those operating in the elevated Hempel (who also bears the title Lady Weinberg) world. Many come for the specialized food and wine, though it’s also a draw for couples as the lighting is so low and the space small it instantly feels sultry and romantic. Anything to say about the service? Like the entire operation, it’s exacting. Every member of staff will know your name, and if you have an obscure request, they’ll fulfill it for you. On the double. Acting as if Lady Weinberg is watching over their shoulder for a slip up. What’s the neighborhood scene like? The street is classic Paris (Rue Washington with its tabacs and chocolate shops) found on the right bank in the heart of the 8th district. Art museums aplenty nearby (most notable is the Grand Palais) along with the Champs-Élysées’ shiny office fronts, shops, and cafés packed with tourists. Anything else to add? Book a massage in the spa; it’s like being engulfed in a glorious cocoon for over an hour. (The wellness area also has a steam and sauna; private yoga sessions can be set up in your room.) And do order room service, as standards don’t slip from restaurant to bed. In fact, it’s almost improved. Anything you’d change? The food could be more reassuring and include some French classics like a croque Monsieur, steak haché, frîtes. Puddings are delicious but fussy, the bowl of chocolate-covered salted almonds served with coffee is the real hit. As long as service remains friendly and family-style and not OTT it will thrive. Is it worth it? Absolutely. It’s exceptional attention to detail, with a modest starting fee." - Sophie Goodwin
