Saturday the 14th of February is officially the most 'loved up' day of the year, so in the run up to Valentine's day, I'll be helping to get you in the amorous mood with ideas and inspirations for the occasion. And don't worry, there will be no mention of love hearts, boxes of chocolates or a dozen red roses, definitely not. Consider this a stylish guide to a cliche' free Valentine's Day.
So to start, here's my pick of London restaurants and bars to enjoy fine food, good drinks and none of the Valentine's day cheese.
Luxe Spot: Pearl Restaurant
This restaurant has an excellent reputation for modern French cuisine and a menu that incorporates the best seasonal product and ingredients. The Pearl Restaurant is set in Holborn, Central London and the elegant marble dining room is adorned with over a million hand-strung pearls. Fine food is complimented with subtle lighting, luxurious leather seating and a décor of cream and white. This restaurant offers a fantastic intimate dining experience.
Special Valentine's Day Menu
Pearl, will be offering a specially designed Valentine’s dinner, created by the Executive Chef Jun Tanaka. The indulgent five-course dinner includes a complimentary glass of Champagne, a pre-dessert, plus petit fours and coffee to round up after a bountiful offering of dishes. This special menu which includes Brill with oyster tortellini, and a variety of vegetarian alternatives, will be available on the 14 February 2009 from 6pm until 10pm, priced at £120 per person.
Pearl Restaurant
252 High Holborn, London, WC1V 7EN
Tel 020 7829 7000
Web: http://www.pearl-restaurant.com
Hot Spot: Moti Mahal
Moti Mahal is a chic Indian restaurant in the heart of Covent Garden. Known for sumptuous and stylishly presented cuisine, the menu boasts exquisite tandoori dishes and an elegant culinary experience. Inside the décor is formal but relaxed, with dining available upstairs, downstairs and a designated bar area.
The Golden Kiss
On 13 and 14 February 2009, Moti Mahal will be offering the deliciously luxurious cocktail - The Golden Kiss. Priced at £9 each, it's a refreshing combination of Rémi Martin Coeur de Cognac, Chambord and rose syrup, shaken with fresh cranberry juice, lemon juice and gold flakes, and garnished with golden passion fruit caviar pearls. The cocktail is aptly named, promising to turn guests’ lips gold after sipping.
Moti Mahal
45 Great Queen Street, London WC2B 5AA
Tel: 020 7240 9329
Web: http://www.motimahal-uk.com
Hidden Treasure: Bar 190 at The Gore Hotel
Tucked away on the quiet Queens Gate road in Kensington is the fabulous Bar 190. Featuring candlelit, Art Deco interiors, it's open until 1am. The bar has a fabulous atmosphere and many famous faces have chosen this particular bar as their venue of choice, earning it the reputation as one of the most popular after-show party venues.
Miss Polly Rae, Burlesque EntertainerBurleque Soirée
On Friday 13 February 2009, Bar 190 at The Gore Hotel will host a burlesque inspired evening, a pre-valentine soirée, starring Miss Polly Rae and the Hurly Burly Girlys.
This evening is perfect for couples and singletons alike, enjoy Burlesque cocktails at the bar and witness Miss Polly Rae; one of the UK’s rising Burlesque stars whose shows feature a cabaret, traditional and “neo” Burlesque. The Hurly Burly Girlys will also perform at intervals between 9.30pm and midnight. You're encouraged to join in the fun and come kitted out in Burlesque attire.
Admission: Entry £10 on the door
– includes one complimentary Burlesque cocktail
- Burlesque attire is not essential.
Bar 190, The Gore Hotel
190 Queen’s Gate, Kensington SW7
Tel: 020 7584 6601,
Web: http://www.gorehotel.com
For more information on Miss Polly Rae and the Hurly Burly Girlys visit: www.hurlyburlyuk.co.uk
Pearl Restaurant looks amazing! Wish I could make it. Greetings from NYC!
Hi, doesn't it just? Thanks for your comment. x