Whether you’re a lifelong Londoner or just visiting, everyone needs a break from the city’s constant buzz. Luckily, I stumbled upon a hidden gem where you can do exactly that. If you go inside Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences, you’ll find a peaceful courtyard at its core.
It features a Victorian fountain, flower-made butterflies, and even the world’s longest Shakespearean-inspired frieze. I’ll definitely be returning to enjoy a quiet hot drink while working or reading when I need a break from home. You can also go for one of their new Shakespeare-inspired cocktails, a nod to the hotel’s roots.
READ MORE: ‘I ate fish and chips and tikka masala tacos at London’s newest Mexican restaurant’ There are four delectable cocktails, like the Swan of Avon, with hints of bubble gum and presented in a spectacular swan-shaped glass, and the Midnight Summer Dream, with Blue curacao and served in a shell-shaped glass. Each cocktail is £15. This time though, I decided to explore the food menu at the hotel’s restaurant, TH@51 , dining in their stunning conservatory with uninterrupted views of the courtyard.
The menu is predominantly Indian, but nearly every dish is infused with flavours from other cuisines. I started with a Thai raw mango and chutney rice paper wrap - the perfect light and refreshing bite. I also tried the Cajun-spiced lamb bao bun, which was a bit spicy for me but packed with flavour.
The only fully Indian dish I had - the Aloo Tikki Chaat - w.