Overview
This is not merely a place to sleep on Regent Street. It is a London establishment that opened its doors in 1865, adept at navigating various styles without losing focus. The key aspect here is balance. On one hand, there are 160 rooms, embodying the true mechanics of a grand hotel. On the other, there are signature offerings that provide a clear direction for your stay, from Albert Adrià to Heston Blumenthal. Few addresses can cohesively blend dessert, cocktails, breakfast, and a destination dinner with such consistency. The Café Royal is also part of a broader narrative of London. Its name resonates through the city’s cultural memory, from the dandies of the late 19th century to the more contemporary nights of Soho. Today, the appeal is straightforward: you are in a Palace classified by Atout France, featuring 54 suites, 24-hour room service, and an Akasha spa equipped with an 18-metre indoor pool. If you appreciate hotels that allow you to do everything on-site without losing the rhythm of the city, this is a very solid base. And if you know London, you are already aware that such a location transforms throughout the day, from the first coffee to the last drink.
History & Heritage
The Café Royal opened in 1865 and is now among the Palaces.
The former Café Royal closed prior to a significant renovation. It now boasts 160 rooms, including 54 suites.
Architecture & Design
Information regarding the architecture remains somewhat limited.
One documented point is the transformation of the former Café Royal into a 160-room hotel following a significant renovation.
The On-Site Experience
The on-site experience is primarily reflected in its capacity and services. The official website mentions a total of 160 keys, comprising 106 rooms and 54 suites.
Concierge services, valet parking, pet-friendly options for an additional fee, and 24-hour room service are available. Check-in is at 3 pm and check-out is at 12 pm.
The venue presents itself as a modern grand hotel.
Dining
Dining is where the hotel’s public persona truly shines. Cakes & Bubbles by Albert Adrià presents a delightful array of sweets and Champagne, marking the chef's first restaurant outside Spain.
The Green Bar is tucked away from Regent Street, serving botanical cocktails crafted by the hotel’s mixologists. The Gallery hosts breakfast beneath a Venetian chandelier, right on Regent Street.
Completing the culinary offerings is Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, which has earned a recommendation from the Michelin Guide for its playful yet delicious Meat Fruit.
Wellness & Spa
The spa is named Akasha. The official brochure highlights a partnership with Valmont and details specific amenities: an 18-metre indoor pool, a gym, a sauna, a Jacuzzi, a steam room, and relaxation areas.
Service & Team
The hotel offers concierge services, valet parking, and on-site parking. Pets are welcome for an additional fee. Room service operates 24 hours a day. Check-in is at 3 pm and check-out at 12 pm.
Practical Information
- Address: London, GB - Rating: 5 stars; Palace status in the Atout France registry - Coordinates: 51.5101974, -0.1363299 - Capacity: 160 keys; 106 rooms; 54 suites - Wellness: Akasha spa; 18-metre indoor pool; sauna; Jacuzzi; steam room; fitness - Services: concierge; valet; parking; pets allowed with an extra charge; 24-hour room service - Hours: check-in 3 pm; check-out 12 pm
Our Verdict
The hotel features 160 keys.
The dining experience is notably enhanced by Albert Adrià and Heston Blumenthal.
The Akasha spa includes an 18-metre indoor pool.