The London EDITION
"How did it strike you on arrival?Ian Schrager is best known for Studio 54 in New York and launching the concept of boutique hotels, so unsurprisingly, walking into this property feels like joining the party. The lobby is also the bar, with a billiards table, lofty stucco ceiling, giant chrome egg dangling from it, and open fire—there’ll be loud chatter over gin and tonics and people reclining on sofas pretending to work on their MacBooks. It's an entertaining mix of bright young things, finance swells, and hipster guests. And no wonder: The hotel, along with being one of London’s most stylish spots right now, is home to the Punch Room, one of the hottest clubs in town, located in the middle of Fitzrovia. What’s the crowd like?The glamorous, sociable kind. This hotel is all about moving and shaking in the impressive communal spaces. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.Schrager has partnered with Marriott to launch the Edition brand and, as such, the rooms don’t vary much, except for size. They're good, though: White walls and linen are warmed up by oak floors and paneling, along with faux fur throws. The smallest of the rooms feel a touch shoebox, although all have a slim desk, a lounge chair, and a Hendriks Kerstens photograph, inspired by portraits by Dutch masters. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?If you like the super-soft linen you can buy it (along with the bed and most other things you can lay your hands on) from the online shop. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase?The minibars are imaginative, including iced coffee and earl grey tea lip balm instead of boring Britvic. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Minimalist white-tiled bathrooms have rain showers—only a handful have baths. Le Labo products have a specially designed scent. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Free. Room service: Worth it?In-room food comes from Berners Tavern. It’s available round the clock and surprisingly good value—a plate of mushroom gnocchi costs $20. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.Berners Tavern is still one of the city’s hottest tickets. Directed by star chef Jason Atherton, the walls are crammed with art in glittering gilt frames—it’s super for a special occasion but not the least bit stuffy. Go in the evening (it’s too fancy for lunch) and book ahead, preferably a shell-colored booth if you can get one, and try the barbecue pork chop ($35). Bottom line: worth it, and why?It isn't cheap, but you can easily spend more on less grand London establishments." - Laura Goulden
