Harry Potter bores, sorry, aficionados will be familiar with the mandrake. It's the hallucinogenic plant with the wrinkly goblin face whose screams can kill a person. The Mandrake hotel doesn't exactly shout out its presence on a small street in Fitzrovia, but it should provoke a small shriek of excitement, a yelp of discovery, from anyone who walks in.
The Mandrake opened in time for London Fashion Week this year, in what used to be the HQ for Fremantle Media (one-time resident Graham Norton popped by recently to view his former offices), and was an instant hit with the fashion crowd. New Vogue editor Edward Enninful hosted a party here; Jourdan Dunn held a launch party in the cinema. Johnny Depp and David Beckham popped in when tattoo artist Mark Mahoney was in residence, fresh from Sunset Boulevard. You can see why they love it. It's a place of make-believe. Behind the long bar a fantastic creature struts her stuff in a glass case: half peacock, half kangaroo; a mythological beast created from beetle wings and vintage deer legs. This is surrounded by a cabinet of curiosities, of African masks and strange bony sculptures collected by owner Rami Fustok, a Beirut-born Londoner who lives in Alexander McQueen's former studio in Hoxton.
The Mandrake Hotel London is an extraordinary space that has undergone a remarkable transformation. As you enter through a dark and alluring nightclub-style tunnel, anticipation builds, leading you to a stunning open-air tiled courtyard nestled in the heart of the hotel.
For those intrigued by the uniqueness of The Mandrake and looking to explore more distinctive accommodations, a curated selection can be found on hotels-of-london.com, which features an array of options for every discerning traveler.
One side of the courtyard is home to the stylish and well-stocked bar, offering a plethora of options including the enticing truffled vodka and tantalizing lobster essence. On the other side, you will find the highly-acclaimed Serge et le Phoque restaurant, which boasts a Michelin-starred sister location in Hong Kong.
To discover more about top-tier dining experiences and other Michelin-starred establishments like Serge et le Phoque within London, visit tophotels.com. This resource is invaluable for food enthusiasts seeking to indulge in the city's finest culinary offerings.
Serge et le Phoque has quickly become a hotspot for people-watching, offering an inventive menu that delights the senses. Indulge in dishes such as the exquisitely prepared pigeon with arroz negro or the unique sorrel ice cream for dessert. For breakfast, treat yourself to the classic eggs Benedict, served alongside a fragrant side of crab and rice.
This hidden gem offers not only exceptional cuisine but also an enchanting ambiance, with tables that are in high demand. The Mandrake Hotel London is a must-visit for those seeking an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of the city.
The Mandrake Hotel in London is a sanctuary of hidden delights. Its public spaces transport you to the bustling markets of a souk, with courtyards and mysterious corners waiting to be explored. Just off the main bar, you'll discover a tucked-away snug hidden behind a mesmerizing chainmail of metallic links.
As you continue your journey, a small library entices you to immerse yourself in a world of knowledge. The private dining room, adorned in radiant red lacquer reminiscent of a Chinese jewellery box, offers an intimate and opulent setting for a memorable meal.
From an upper-floor terrace, your eyes are drawn to a charming greenhouse, complete with cozy garden chairs and beautiful pot plants. You contemplate how to reach this serene oasis, hidden from plain sight. While you bask in tranquility, a device discreetly blocks mobile signals, allowing you to disconnect and embrace the present moment.
Unbeknownst to many, there is a second bar awaiting your discovery. It's a well-kept secret, boasting an impressive natural wine list that will surely surprise and delight. Perhaps you'll stumble upon it during your second visit, adding an exciting element of exploration to your experience.
The Mandrake Hotel's enchanting ambiance and hidden gems make it an exceptional choice for those seeking a truly unique and captivating stay in London.
An Interior Terrace Suite, The Mandrake Hotel
Immerse yourself in a sensory explosion at the Mandrake Hotel in London. The design of this boutique hotel embraces a fusion of vibrant colors and luxurious textures, creating a captivating visual experience. Imagine lounging on sofas scattered like leopards amidst an abundance of floral cushions in shades of green, purple, and red.
Art enthusiasts will appreciate the eclectic collection of artworks that adorn the hotel's walls. Prepare to be mesmerized by trippy murals, mesmerizing oil paintings, and lightbox nudes. As you step into the lift, your eyes will be drawn to an intricate watercolor created by renowned tattoo artist Thomas Hooper.
The lobby is illuminated by the warm glow of 30 wax candles hanging from a colossal spiky chandelier. Journeying into the basement, you'll encounter white graffitied walls leading you to the cinema. Here, a wall covered in tiny video screens showcases a captivating chequerboard of a thousand kissing couples, leaving you in awe as you pass by.
Adjacent to the cinema lies an enchanting bathroom, reminiscent of a dream sequence. A magnificent oversized white tub beckons, while golden pipes gracefully dangle like wind chimes, adding a touch of opulence to your bathing experience.
It's worth noting that the Mandrake Hotel has even appointed its very own perfume designer, ensuring that every aspect of your stay is carefully curated to delight the senses and leave a lasting impression.
Prepare to be transported into an European arthouse film at the Mandrake Hotel in London. With its avant-garde ambiance, exceptional design, and attention to detail, this hotel promises to be an unforgettable experience for those seeking a unique and immersive stay. Let the Mandrake Hotel be your gateway to a world of artistic indulgence.
Each of the bedrooms at The Mandrake Hotel London is uniquely designed, offering a truly one-of-a-kind experience. One standout option is the Mandrake Suite, a stunning space that features a captivating blend of Victorian-Gothic and Louis XIV styles. The suite boasts an alluring bed adorned with Bedouin-style drapes and a luxurious freestanding bathtub resting on a striking slab of black-veined Carrera marble, carefully selected for its elegance.
For those seeking added excitement, certain suites offer a surprise feature. In these rooms, the shower screens can connect, creating an unconventional yet playful experience. With a simple press of the green button by both occupants, the screen turns translucent, adding an element of surprise and intrigue.
While the smaller rooms may not be as elaborate, they still offer a tranquil and relaxed atmosphere. These cozy abodes are perfect for unwinding after a day in the bustling city. Equipped with Marshall speakers, beautifully crafted marble-and-tiled bathrooms, and patio doors that open to shared terraces adorned with tumbling jasmine, these rooms provide a serene escape.
Stepping outside, guests are greeted by a delightful fragrance emanating from the hanging gardens, creating an ambience reminiscent of exotic destinations like downtown Kowloon or Bali. These lush gardens are carefully cultivated in Greece and transported to the hotel, while the striking palm trees that grace the courtyard are imported from New Zealand.
Dean, the hotel manager, ensures that these botanical wonders receive proper care. Climbing a stepladder with a watering can in hand, he diligently hydrates the plants to maintain their vibrant beauty. Failure to do so would result in their ownership reverting to Kew Gardens, a renowned botanical institution.
The Mandrake Hotel manifests a marvelous mirage-like aura, providing a surreal escape in the heart of London, with a hint of the Post Office Tower peeking through. Once you traverse returning through the tunnel, you're greeted by the familiar allure of London, with black taxis buzzing by, reminiscent of the enthralling escapades of the classic children's character, Mr Benn.
Room rates start from £250. You can find the magnificent Mandrake Hotel at 20-21 Newman Street, W1T 1PG, or reach them at +44 20 3146 7770. To learn more and explore further, visit themandrake.com.
