LOCATION Diner is nestled inside the Mandarin Oriental Hotel opposite Hyde Park, in the classy Knightsbridge district just west of central London.
DETAILSThe refined and attractive interior is a testament to renowned designer Adam D. Tihany’s chic aesthetic. Using traditional materials such as wood, leather and iron, reflective of Britain’s architectural past, Tihany combines these rich materials to create a contemporary and innovative décor. The ivory walls blend harmoniously with the mahogany wooden floors, and chocolate coloured furnishings, while an expansive floor-to-ceiling glass wall provides diners with a unique view into the open kitchen. Heston’s playful approach to cooking is emulated by unique design flourishes such as the light fittings, which have been constructed in the shape of antique jelly moulds. During summer the terrace will become available for al fresco dining, providing guests with an intimate view of Hyde Park.
FOOD & BEVERAGE Once again Blumenthal manages to captivate diners with his multi-sensory approach to cooking. His exciting menu is inspired by early British culinary traditions, and accordingly features a varied selection of historic dishes dating back as far as the 16th century. The kitchen is under the reigns of Blumenthal’s head chef of the Fat Duck, Ashley Palmer-Watts, whose creativity and eye for detail shines through in the menu. For starters, try the legendary meat fruit; chicken liver parfait in a mandarin casing with grilled bread, or opt for a savoury porridge of cod cheeks, pickled beetroot, garlic and fennel. Main courses feature an exotic selection of dishes including black foot pork chop with pointy cabbage & Robert sauce or roast veal sweetbreads with asparagus, morels and lemon. Be sure to save room for dessert, where diners will be treated to the unique pleasures of tipsy cake, malted barley ice cream and other tantalizing treats.
FUNCTIONS An intimate private dining room is available for up to 10 people. Diners will be whisked away to a secret room, with a rich aesthetic of traditional mahogany floors and ceilings, rusty red leather-clad walls, and an elegant wooden table surrounded by luxurious cobalt blue dining chairs. The chef’s table, which overlooks the kitchen, is also available for up to six guests, where diners will be treated to a sample menu and a unique insight into Blumenthal’s culinary practices and passion for traditional British cuisine.