Busy, Busy...
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Uploading more than 60 photos reinforced what a full month May 2026 was, with visitors from Qatar, Panama & the US; saying goodbye to David Cerezo at Peninsula, London; seeing mum & her friends etc etc

The Lord Mayor's Appeal "This Is Me" Mental Health Initiative at the Bank of England ('BoE')
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It was almost ironic that I felt stressed finding time to attend a mental health awareness event in the Bank of England, that was talking about people being overwhelmed by the pressures of life.

I left wearing my green ribbon with pride and being aware I must be better at genuinely asking people how they are doing & listening to their replies with empathy.

45 Park Lane Consistently Impresses Me

A steak & salad lunch at 45 Park Lane, with one of my best friends from Qatar, became so much more. 'Free' champagne and desserts and food, & company, from heaven. Staff there are incredible.

Forward Global UK's (Well Timed) Spring Drinks 

These were held in the stunning Library Room at L'Oscar (hotel) London in Holborn.

I spent most of my time chatting with Lord Ali & Lord Joe Docherty. Also got a chance to talk to Alex Just and, of course, John Watts. Wes Streeting resigned as Health Secretary two days later.  

Is The Emory's Breakfast Better Than Claridge's?

The Financial Times claim Claridge's is the best hotel breakfast in London. I think The Emory's is better and so had breakfast there with Ian. We were both on the board of Jordan International Bank Plc here in London.

The Emory; Peninsula, London; The Chancery Rosewood; Claridge's & The Red Room at The Connaught

I managed to show my Uruguay friend, who I spent a month in Panama with, many of the London hotels I love.

Special mentions must go to Elisabeth (the Art Concierge at The Chancery Rosewood), Daniele (the new F&B Director at Claridge's) & the staff at Brooklands Bar at the Peninsula, London.

Must also thank Alejandro again for my Geisha Coffee, & chocolate, from Panama.

Formidable Mei Ume & Cooper's Cut at Four Seasons at Tower Bridge 

I was spoilt at the Saturday Dim Sum Brunch at Four Seasons at Tower Bridge at the start of the month & then again in Cooper's Cut at the end of the month.

​Both experiences were unforgettable & demonstrated Four Seasons service at its best.

New York's Legendary Magnolia Bakery at Raffles, London at The OWO

Cafe Ciel, & Raffles, London at The OWO, made another of my dreams come true. Finally, eating Magnolia Bakery's scrumptious Banana Pudding, that I saw on 'Sex & the City' in the early 2000s, was so special.

Hot Shrewsbury & My Loving Mum

I squeezed in a quick Bank Holiday trip to see mum. Loved the quiet room The Prince Rupert Hotel gave me on the 'last' night and the lady who serves their breakfast is a star.

It was so good sitting in the garden with mum telling each other how much we love each other.

The Incomparable 'Sunday Feast' at The Ned Was a Perfect Way to End the Month

Brilliant live music at The Ned and a warm welcome from Adam. The food was sublime (eg devilled eggs, fresh oysters, fresh lobster, incomparable roast beef and roast pork, melt in the mouth profiteroles stuffed with chocolate etc). 

It was another '9 teddies'  (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) month.  A poor breakfast at Gordon Ramsay's 'Bread Street Kitchens' at 22 Bishopsgate meant I was given a £50 voucher, which I used to extinguished it from my mind with a sublime ale & treacle pork chop at lunch at Gordon Ramsay's Grill at The Savoy.

Been so busy I have failed to arrange coffee with Dainyah, a barrister I also met at the Forward Global party.

In June 2026 I have the 'invite only'  Soho Mews House; fish & chips on the Terrace at 45 Park Lane; breakfast at St Clement hotel, Nick Jones' latest venture & A VIP Event at Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair to launch the SOFOS Associates Brain Gym (all about cognitive performance & modern wellness).

Meeting Joshua at Four Seasons at Park Lane

April 2026 was the month when I met Joshua. He is studying for his final A-level exam and has a passion for the hospitality industry and an impressive network of contacts already.  Four Seasons at Park Lane was a perfect venue for this 'historic' meeting.
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Jean-Georges Vongerichten's Sublime Breakfast at 'abc kitchens, London' at The Emory in Belgravia 

Cannot say enough good things about 'abc kitchens' at The Emory. Breakfast there is superb.

​I am taking Ian, who was an Independent Non-Executive Director on the board of Jordan International Bank Plc with me, there this month and Alejandro (who I spent a month in Panama with) there for brunch too.

The Iconic Reopened Simpson's in the Strand 

​I returned to Simpson's in the Strand for breakfast had the '10 Deadly Sins Breakfast' again but without the lamb chop & devilled kidney. With those changes, a perfect breakfast.

I also returned on St George's Day to eat Melba Toast, roast beef from the trolley and Gentleman's Relish on warm buttered toast.

​The Melba Toast was impossibly thin and an exquisite accompaniment to venison tartare. The Devonshire roast beef from the trolley melted in mouth. You have to order cauliflower cheese to go with it all. 

​The Louis Vuitton Hotel London Pop-up In Berkeley Square 

Given my special relationship with LVMH, including Veuve  Clicquot; Tiffany & Co; Belmond; Moët & Chandon etc I was thrilled to visit the Louis Vuitton Hotel London pop-up. 

It was fun, & elegantly done, but I had to go to the Art Deco The Fumoir Cocktail Bar at Claridge's for a proper cocktail, after.

​They made my 'SF Martini' perfectly and I met an LA based couple who know the King of Jordan. Only at House of Maybourne. 

'Counter Culture': Legendary Chef Yannick Alléno & Chef Claude Bosi Cook Together at Pavyllon at Four Seasons at Park Lane

The 'Counter Culture' dinner at Pavyllon at Four Seasons at Park Lane was an unforgettable evening. I have met both chefs before and Yannick's Crispy Orkney Scallop Tartlet and Turbot Duglere Style were insanely delicious but Claude's Confit of Lamb Shoulder with new potatoes with garlic & lemon felt like a homage to my fabulous Welsh mum's incredible cooking. 

All washed down with an 'SF Martinis'. Life does not get better.

Yannick's burnt grapefruit dessert was so refreshing and Claude's Rhum Baba was unbelievably light and got me talking about Goslings Rum and my time living in Bermuda.
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It was certainly a '9 teddies'  (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) month. When a Cedric Grolet Easter Egg having a Dubai chocolate interior; a slice of birthday cake, with a new raspberry dessert from heaven, at Mount Street Restaurant; Head Chef Jacob Keen-Downs' Devonshire roast chicken at The Grill at The Dorchester at Sunday lunch did not come with bread sauce. However. I am Si Frew & so it was quickly made;  & the divine breakfast at Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair - are relegated to footnotes, you know it was too special a month. 

Hope the more than 40 photos you will find, when you click 'Read More', will convince you of that.

Arriving at The Emory in Long-wheelbased BMW Style

At noon on the Saturday one of The Emory's BMW i7, long-wheelbase electric limo fleet was waiting outside Four Seasons at Tower Bridge to 'whisk' me to the hotel.

OK, Saturday protesters in London meant we were delayed near Raffles, London at The OWO. However, my driver Sudhir had worked for The Hinduja brothers and so I had fun swapping stories from my Bank of England days about that newsworthy family.

A Second Stay at The Emory - Even Better Than The First

Rosa (Assistant Director of Guest Services) was waiting to welcome me. I was in a Corner Suite (with a window that fully opens) before I knew it again & barely had time to acknowledge all the "welcome back Mr Frew"s from the door staff.

The Surrenne Spa 

Rosa pointed out a Surrenne Spa towel embroidered with my initials. It was only after a swim that I spotted my personalised robe too. I avoided the children-friendly times in the pool (8 - 10am & 3 - 5pm) and had such a relaxing time using the snow shower etc

The Emory Rooftop Bar; An Ice-cold 'SF Martini' & a Cedric Grolet Birthday Cake

​When I returned from dinner at The Peninsula I got back at 11pm. A table had been reserved for me in The Rooftop Bar.

My ice-cold 'SF Martini' was perfect but the change of clocks the next day, & all the surprises at dinner, meant I was happily exhausted. A Red Rose Cedric Grolet cake was produced with a candle but I could not eat it. Charming Veronika brought it to my suite & we had such a great conversation. A perfect end to my 'Birthday Eve'.

The Big Day Started with Breakfast in Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten's 'abc kitchens'

I slept brilliantly and my 'birthday breakfast' in Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten's 'abc kitchens' was heavenly.

Soft scrambled eggs with aged cheddar & broccoli was insanely good again and the waiting staff so fun to chat with.

​I almost cried when I was presented with a stunning Cedric Grolet Easter Egg at the end of breakfast.

Reading The Genuine Weekend Financial Times 

It was then back to the Surrenne Spa pool to read the GENUINE Weekend Financial Times. The wording of the birthday mockup Peninsula, London created still makes me emotional.

Leaving The Emory in BMW 7i Style 

Sudhir drove me to 45 Park Lane in the BWM 7i. I love it when the same driver is used for your whole hotel stay. My luggage was taken to Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park for later.

Another Legendary Birthday Lunch at 45 Park Lane

At 45 Park Lane Ruinart champagne was poured immediately and there was a 45 Park Lane leather luggage tag on my table that wildly exceeded my expectations. Not only were my initials embossed on it but there was an air tag to help me find my lost luggage.

Japanese Wagyu From Heaven
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Chef Elliott's food is sublime. I got the 'Taste of Cut' and had to leave the Japanese wagyu to last and savor every bite.

Tia's Extraordinarily Splendid Birthday Cake

My Duckmaster cane from The Peabody Hotel Memphis in chocolate on top and photos of me with Chef Wolfgang Puck, Chef Byron Puck, GM Lee, Chef Elliott etc around the base. It was an unbelievable birthday cake. 

Tia also presented me with a Chocolate Easter Bunny with my initials on it, before the hotel guests receive them.

​A London Birthday Would Not Be Complete Without a Visit to Four Seasons at Park Lane

Four Seasons at Park Lane has a very special place in Mr Sharp & my hearts. I will be there again tomorrow morning.

Incredible Friends From My Qatar Days

I met two of my best friends from Qatar days. One had flown in from Dubai the previous day and had funny & generous gifts for me. The other worked for Tony Blair in Downing Street and always has lots to tell me.

'SF Martinis' & a New Four Seasons at Park Lane Bag

While all this was going on Four Seasons' chef 'fixed' my 45 Park Lane cake, so it looked just as good, after its journey down the road with the 45 Park Lane doormen, and I could try it with my friends. It tasted even better than it looked, if that was possible.

I drank perfect 'SF Martinis' & Peter presented me with a new Four Seasons at Park Lane bag, with the Four Seasons logo inside. Will take it to Pavyllon tomorrow and get better photos of it.

​A Better Than Perfect End to My Birthday at The Aubrey at Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park - #imafan

I was overwhelmed, one more time, at The Aubrey at Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park. Thanks to Assistant Guest Relations Manager Joseph keeping me company. It was so good exchanging hotel anecdotes with this enthusiastic guy.

A The Aubrey Bottle For My Special Vermouth For The 'SF Martini' That Matches The Perfection of This Martini

​A 90 minute massage voucher and The Aubrey label bottle for the special vermouth  for the 'SF Martini'. It is beyond perfect.

Japanese Food On Another Level

There were so many mouth-wateringly delicious bites. The yellowtail sashimi with spicy ponzu, lemony shiso & chilli was sensational and the uni from heaven.

Services from Matteo & his team was perfectly judged for someone struggling to process such an astonishing day.

Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park's Celebrated Doormen

As the evening started to end I because stressed over how my luggage & gifts would get into my black cab. Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park's doormen made it all look so effortless & I felt embarrassed to have worried.

It was a '10 teddies'  (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) birthday. Building on the Peninsula's birthday mockup of the Weekend Financial Times on my 'Birthday Eve', everything on my birthday was beyond perfect. I have never been compelled to post 10 cover photos before.

From the flawless & friendly service at The Emory; to Tia's 45 Park Lane Birthday Cake; to my 45 Park Lane luggage tag; to seeing these important friends in my life on my birthday; to my new Four Seasons at Park Lane bag; to the Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park massage voucher; the bottle for the special vermouth for the 'SF Martini' The Aubrey created, with the ingredients on the back; & the Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park video wishing me happy birthday. Implausible perfection and so much thought & effort put into everything.

Already Legendary Peninsula, London

I had high expectations for how Peninsula, London would help me celebrate my 57th birthday and, once again, they far exceeded them.

Feeling Like a Celebrity in Brooklands Bar

I walked over to Peninsula, London on the Saturday evening, from The Emory in Belgravia, where I was staying.

In Brooklands Bar I was presented with a series of personalised gifts, which culminated with a birthday mockup of the Weekend Financial Times. Other customers were clearly wondering who the person getting all this attention was.

A Series of Birthday Surprises in Brooklands by Chef Claude Bosi   

I thought I had prepared for Concorde themed Brooklands restaurant with a 'new' Concorde luggage tag but was not ready for a goodbye meeting with Peninsula, London Hotel Manager Scott.

​A Sublime Dinner of Chef Claude Bosi Food

I lost count of all the courses I was served, I had skipped lunch but still struggled with all the mouthwateringly delicious bites.

I have provided photos of two of the courses but have photos of 6 more courses. Service was on another level and my perfect ice-cold 'SF Martinis' were brought from the bar.

Meeting Chef Claude Bosi Again

I first encountered Chef Claude Bosi in his restaurant Hibiscus in Ludlow in the 1990s. Ate in his restaurant Bibendum and am due with meet him at Four Seasons at Park Lane, when he cooks with Chef Yannick. Yannick Alléno has 21 restaurants & holds 18 Michelin stars. We have met before and I have eaten his truffle menu at Pavyllon, London.

On Saturday Chef Claude Bosi and I met again and we had a fascinating long one-on-one chat ranging from the implications of Iran's retaliation; to Chef Francesco Dibenedetto; to our mutual admiration for Peninsula, London MD Rolf Buehlmann & my adoration for House of Maybourne. 

It was a '9 teddies'  (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) evening. The birthday mockup of the Weekend Financial Time, & my long chat with Chef Claude Bosi, would justify this score but the food/ service blew my mind too.

Cooper's Cut & Chef Anne-Sophie Pic

Cooper's Cut opened this month in the space at Four Seasons at Tower Bridge formerly occupied by Chef Anne-Sophie Pic. She recently opened at Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok.

The restaurant is named after Sir Edwin Cooper, the architect of the Port of London Authority building at Ten Trinity Square that is now a Four Seasons.

An Elegant Room & Innovative Menus

High ceilings, vast windows, luxurious leather banquettes & seats from the Ms Pic days and columns covered with bevelled mirrors. A restrained and classy look.

Their dinner menu includes an Iberico Duroc (originating from Spain) pork chop from Shropshire. I viewed this as a fortuitous omen.  

Luke Armstrong is the Executive Chef. He worked at The Ledbury, Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo etc.  However, mid-strength martinis are not really my thing & the curry-flavoured version sounds a bit like Anne-Sophie Pic's coffee butter. Something to avoid.

A Steak Restaurant's Breakfast

The cooked breakfast included Cumbrian pork sausages, 'slab bacon', a mushroom & crispy Mrs. Brown’s Black Pudding. I declined the 'British beans' (baked beans) & slow-roasted tomatoes.

Serving pork belly, rather than crispy bacon, was ​Chef Yannick Alléno's initial misjudged approach at Pavyllon at Four Seasons at Park Lane. He also switched sausages for sausage meat in the beans. It was all a bit too different.

At Cooper's Cut the bacon was crispy & delicious, despite the 'slab' description. Every element of the breakfast was delectable.

My Birthday Weekend 

​Pancakes with strawberries & cream, and a candle, arrived for my birthday. There will be 6 luxury hotels this Birthday Weekend & lots of birthday surprises.

​It was a '6 teddies'  (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) perfect start to my Birthday Weekend. Now have the Weekend Financial Times to relax with.

Another Iconic Birthday 

​March 2026 is here. My birthday month. My actual birthday is on Sunday 29 March and I will wake at The Emory, in Belgravia, on that day.

​Impressive Park Hyatt, London Thames River

My birthday month could not have started any better. I was invited to the 203 room & suite Park Hyatt, London Thames River and it far exceeded my expectations. I love Palacio Duhau - Park Hyatt Buenos Aires, and Park Hyatt Bangkok, and Park Hyatt, London Thames River is also refined quality.

Nine Elms & The New US Embassy 

The hotel is in Nine Elms, close to Battersea Power Station, and an easy journey from The Barbican.

A Perfect Park Hyatt Welcome 

​Japanese Chief Mixologist Mitsuhrio, in Nine Elms Bar, was familiar with www.sifrew.com and recognised me immediately.  Despite me being slightly early, GM Mario appeared within minutes.

Personal Tour By Energised GM Mario

GM Mario had only recently taken up his role and was fascinating to tour the hotel with.

He convinced me I must try their 'Yú Gé' Cantonese restaurant, after my birthday, and showed me my first Somadome (meditation pod) in their beautiful spa.

Rooms & Suites with Breathtaking Views

The views from, & size of, 'basic' rooms makes this term inaccurate and the suites were stunning, with so many special features.

The hotel makes up the first 18 floors of a 42 floor tower and the views of the river and city from the rooms, & suites, are remarkable. Mario explained the residences to me too.

A Memorable Lunch in The Nine Elms Kitchen 

Chef Stefanos Kokkalis came to speak to us at the start of lunch. Steak, tiger prawns from the grill etc meant the food was delicious but it was chatting to Mario about my time in Cape Town, and the hospitality industry more generally, that made my day.

​A Perfect Martini & Unworldly Japan 

Back in The Nine Elms Bar Mitsuhiro ​made me a perfect martini with Japanese precision. Talking to him allowed me an opportunity to reminisce about my time in Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka.

My First Birthday Gifts, Including a Chocolate Tart by Chef Jason Ho

​When I got back to The Barbican, and opened my first birthday gifts, I almost cried over the number of them, the level of personalisation and The Tides product from the spa.

The Chocolate Tart, included Madagascar vanilla & salted caramel and was too indulgent.

​Despite only opening in October 2024, Park Hyatt, London River Thames is already a '7 teddies'  (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) hotel. Nine Elms is developing quickly and its immediate vicinity will improve. Mario and I joked about when I first worked in Canary Wharf in the late 1990s.

The New Claridge's Bakery 
 
I was one of the first people to experience the new Claridge's bakery and had the honour of meeting legendary baker Richard Hart. He had just flown in from Mexico City (where his Green Rhino bakery is based) and he also has a joint venture bakery in Copenhagen with one of the founder of Noma.

All his flavoursome breads (with crisp crusts that will not break your teeth) are made with sourdough and, of his treats, I can particularly recommend his lardy cakes,  the chocolate French Fancy & Walnut Whip.

My Best Burns Night Ever!

I spent Burns Night 2026 in the Rooftop Bar & Cigar Lounge at The Emory.

My First Cigar Since The Gran Hotel Manzana Kempinski in Havana, Cuba in 2018

We started with whisky cocktails, caviar topped canapés & a brilliant bagpipe player in the Cigar Lounge. It was good to see Manager Blue again and he persuaded me to have a few puffs of a cigar before dinner.

A Table Decorated With Heather; Stunning Views of London; Exceptional Drams of The Macallan; The 1786 'Address to a Haggis' etc

​A four course dinner (including Cullen Skink  soup) was made even better by Felicity (The Macallan's Brand Ambassador) giving history & context to the drams we were savouring & sitting next to Charlie from the Maybourne Social Media Team talking about Jamaica etc

​The piping in of the haggis made my chest fill with pride for my Scottish heritage.

Digital Detox? Finding Quiet & Calm

​At the Claridge's Christmas tree party before Christmas Olivia Colman, before her reading, asked the Burberry fashion crowd etc to put their 'phones away and in his Christmas message HM the King said "our world seems to spin even faster" quoted poet TS Eliot's words about finding the "still point of the turning world".

A Snowy Shrewsbury Christmas Full of Love & Happiness 

It was the first Christmas where I woke on Christmas Day alone in our family's Georgian house. After all the frenetic excitement before Christmas, I found my peace for a few days.

At a breakfast before Christmas mum's former hairdresser offered to cut & style mum' hair again. She did an unbelievable job and made mum look elegant over Christmas.

Christmas Day could not have gone any better. It started with Veuve Clicquot champagne. I had lunch with mum at a table for two and she was so happy  & relaxed. Wearing her new Chanel lipstick and spraying herself with her new Dior J'adore perfume, saying how much she loved it and me.

The prize I got in my Dorchester hotel cracker (Aromatherapy Associates bath oil) was the best I have ever got in a cracker.

On Christmas Eve I drank a perfect 'SF Martini' in The Libertine cocktail bar.

Prestfelde Prep School, Shrewsbury School & Old Ford Road - A New Year

​Before Christmas there were drinks in The Benbow pub with friends from my school days and their talented children.

On New Year's Eve one of my friends, who I shared houses with in London in the late 1980s & early 1990s, threw a dinner party. He, and his wife, are perfect hosts.

His wife made one of the best pavlovas of my life. However, must also mention his legendary chilli, made from his mum's Barbados recipe. Brought back happy memories of Old Ford Road in London E2 for me.

'Real' Turkish Delight & Vodka Chocolates from Moscow 

My brother returned from Christmas in Istanbul with his daughter with gifts from him of authentic Turkish Delight from 'Hafiz Mustafa 1864' and vodka chocolates from Moscow from my niece and Russian family.

​I tried both once back in London and adore them.

A Fascinating & Scrumptious Sunday Lunch with a Family Friend

Sunday lunch at 'Rhubarb' at Drapers Hall (which dates back to 1483) with one of our best family friends was a perfect end to my Christmas & New Year in Shrewsbury.

Our thick watercress & Shropshire Blue cheese  soup, on a cold & snowy day, was divine and the roast beef melted in the mouth, with the vegetables cooked perfectly. 

There was even a story about a meeting with David & Victoria Beckham that illustrated what a genuinely nice guy Sir David is.

Orthodox Christmas & Perfect Gifts from House of Maybourne

​I collected the gifts I was sent from House of Maybourne from the porter in my Barbican building the day before Orthodox Christmas.

It was a canvas Claridge's bag full of Claridge's goodies. There were  crackers to replace the ones I pulled with mum over Christmas & a large Signature Candle with the scent of honey, tonka bean & patchouli, which smells heavenly but is was a glass bauble painted with a teddy bear in a Claridge's Bell Boy outfit that brought me near tears. It was all pure class.

Starting 2026 with Chef Elliott Grover's Melt in the Mouth Roast Beef at 45 Park Lane

45 Park Lane invited me for a complimentary 'Sunday Roast' to start 2026. It was such a special afternoon that I would recommend it to anyone needing a break from the stresses in this busy world.

From the awesome singer; to shaved truffles on the sublime beef; Wagyu beef dripping; unbelievable cauliflower cheese and roast potatoes that cannot be beaten.

I started with scallops with garlic & chilli butter. Sensational plump scallops cooked to perfection. Had to drink the butter from the half shells. It was too good. I finished with the banana cream pie. Delicious but I struggled to eat much of it.

Sevice at 45 Park Lane is always flawless and friendly. 

Also Starting 2026 with a Revamped Legendary Coffee Table in My Barbican Place

45 Park Lane and Four Seasons at Park Lane were kind enough to provide elegant crackers to help me update/ slim down my legendary coffee table. Hope you all like the new look.

​It was a '8 teddies'  (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) period. Rocky family starts (involving our family lawyers), and ends, to Christmas (eg mum asking how my parents are, when I was leaving) were compensated for by my incredible friends. Hope you like the photos below, including two breakfast I made myself, one where I carved the smoked salmon myself.

My 'House of Maybourne dream life' continues this weekend with Burns Night at The Emory hotel where I plan to toast my late Scottish father with The Macallan M 2023. I may even take a few puffs of a cigar, for the first time since Havana, Cuba in August 2018.

Christmas in Shrewsbury with Mum

I am now in Shrewsbury and ready to spend Christmas Day with mum. Her Dior & Chanel Christmas presents have been delivered and The Dorchester & Claridge's Christmas crackers are ready to be pulled. The Veuve Clicquot champagne will arrive on Sunday evening.

Friends & Family at Christmas 

Must thank my friend Barbara, from Rome, again for attending the De Beers Diamonds Christmas party at Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park with me, despite not liking caviar.

At the Peninsula, London's Christmas party MD Rolf was kind enough to introduced me to his charming son. My Moscow based niece Maria will be in Istanbul, with my brother, for the Western Christmas. 

I met so many of my amazing friends (eg Matthew, Edd, Katrina, Leanne, John etc) in the weeks before Christmas and was out in Shrewsbury with friends from my Prestfelde and Shrewsbury School days last night.

Maybourne's Claridge's Christmas Tree Wins But Four Seasons at Tower Bridge's Caviar & Martinis Christmas Tree Gets a Special Mention

Daniel Lee's richly decorated Burberry Christmas tree at Claridge's was magical. Once again Maybourne's hotel clearly wins but the caviar & martinis Christmas tree at Four Seasons at Tower Bridge must get a special mention. 

A Chef Wolfgang Puck US Thanksgiving at 45 Park Lane

Chef Elliott Grover made my US Thanksgiving in 2025 unforgettable by inviting me into the 45 Park Lane kitchens.

Dorchester Collection CEO Philippe Leboef was in the kitchens. We first met at the  Mandarin Oriental, Paris at Christmas time and he made my stay at Raffles, London at The OWO unbelievable. Elliott had me 'cooking' A5 Japanese Wagyu.

"No Bill For You Mr Frew, Happy Christmas"

Also have to mention my 'last' lunch at 45 Park Lane on 2025. My burger was insanely good and I almost cried when I was told there was no bill to pay, despite champagne. You have to love Dorchester Collection.

Arab Bankers' Association Christmas Party & The Hackett VIP Christmas Party On Savile Row

The Arab Bankers' Association Christmas party at The Chancery Rosewood was such an enjoyable event. I met so many new interesting people.

However, it was meeting Jeremy Hackett at The Hackett VIP Christmas party that was a dream come true. I wore his suits at the Bank of England in the 1990s and his life story is fascinating. Stewart Lee (CEO of Savile Row Gin) made the party even better.

With my stay The Emory, December 2025 has been a '10 teddies'  (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) month. Breakfast at The Emory with Kostas, MD of the Emory & The Berkeley just before I left London was the icing of a perfect Christmas cake.

Pat Davies and I are visiting mum this afternoon. I wanted to wish everyone happy Christmas and healthy & successful 2026s

The Emory is The Best New Uber Luxury Hotel in London

I have decided my stay at The Emory was better than my stays at Raffles, London at The OWO; Peninsula, London; The Chancery Rosewood and Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair. 

Support From House of Maybourne; Born in Mayfair 

The fact The Emory can rely on support from The Connaught, Claridge's and House of Maybourne itself contributed to my unforgettable stay.

A Special Mention for Peninsula, London

The way Peninsula, London have spoilt me since my stay with them must get a very special mention.

This is Not Luxury 

Must also use this opportunity to mention my 'damaged trouser incident' on Wednesday 19 November 2025 at The Dorchester and the lack of anything but a holding reply from Dorchester Collection about my complaints over not being allowed access to the hotel's lobby.

I will be celebrating US Thanksgiving at 45 Park Lane this evening and get nothing but VIP treatment from that Dorchester Collection hotel.

The Emory is a '9 teddies'  (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) hotel. The least well known hotel of the 5 new in London is discreet luxury at its best.

From superb Josh (Director of Guest Services); to Gintare  from the Butlers/ Housekeeping repairing my trousers & saving my evening; to a superb breakfast in abc kitchens; to my initials on my Frette pillowcase; to a window in my spacious Alexandra Champalimaud designed  Hyde Park view corner suite that fully opening, thanks to the late Richard Rogers; to the fully stocked complimentary mini bar; to the Billecart-Salmon Rose champagne; to a Cedric Grolet cake; to having the Surrenne pool to myself; to a perfect ice cold 'SF Martini' being served in the Rooftop Bar; to Issy's Surrenne Spa outfit, with tiny slippers; to a legendary dinner in The Grill at The Connaught with Maybourne COO Roland Fasel; and a Christmas tree party at Claridge's where I met Richard E Grant (Barbra Streisand fan) & Jeremy King (co-found of Le Caprice) and The Emory sending my luggage to Claridge's. Would almost award 10 teddies. Tip: leave your suite & have breakfast down in 'abc kitchens'.

Have kept this post very short, after one of my best friends told me I have been posting too much recently. Have more Maybourne photos, & lots more to say, if you see me over Christmas.

I am spending US Thanksgiving on Thursday at 45 Park Lane. This has made me think I must post something about their 'Too Many Cooks' dinner and meeting Baroness Floella Benjamin & Jo Brand at the Christmas Tree Lighting Party.

'Too Many Cooks' Dinner With One Cook Missing

The 'Too Many Cooks' dinner was a legendary evening. Tom Parker Bowles was absent but the horrendous attack on his sweet Jack Russell Maud that afternoon makes that completely understandable.

Before the dinner I met Chef Mitch Tonks & Chef Mark Hix. I have hoped to meet Mark Hix for years and Mitch Tonks (of The Seahorse) was a kindred spirit and we  immediately bonded.

The guests (eg Digital Creator Rob Bentley, Social Media Star & TV Personality Henry Southan etc) were as fascinating as the cooks and the food next level.

Must thank 45 Park Lane Bar Manager Enrico for making an emergency batch of the 'SF Martini' special vermouth on the evening.

The 45 Park Lane Christmas Tree Lighting Party; In My 50s But Still One of Floella Benjamin's Playschool Babies 

​Meeting Cliff Richard was incredible but finding Baroness Floella Benjamin was the guest of honour this year was a dream come true.  When Floella held my hand you could feel her warm & positivity. ​Then realising Jo Brand was a fellow guest blew my mind.

Chef Elliott Grover's light as air Yorkshire Puddings, with mouthwatering beef and horseradish cream; smoked pigs in blankets; & runny Scotch eggs were the foods you hope to find in heaven. 

A fabulous speech from GM Lee; magnums of Ruinart champagne served by brilliant staff you could chat with; Tanja as my guest; the Ian Turnock's Christmas trees; connecting with Hormazd Narielwalla again; & meeting Stewart Lee, CEO of Savile Row Gin made is such a memorable evening.

​Both of these evenings were '9 teddies'    (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) events I will be talking about for years to come. 45 Park Lane is such a special Dorchester Collection hotel.

A Mandarin Oriental Celebrity/ VIP Fan #imafan

For the last few weeks I have been living a Mandarin Oriental London dream. From a memorable Heston Blumenthal lunch (those smoked Scottish scallops) with the Acting GM of Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park Flavia, who I first met when she was GM of Mandarin Oriental, Miami; to Bonfire Night in the Hanover (rooftop) Bar at Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair trying their new cocktail list (The Shepherd's Mark spicy margarita is a must try) while looking at panoramic views & a Christmas party back at Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park next week with Ruinart champagne, King's Fine Food caviar & live music.

Anyway, this post focuses on my special stay last week at 50 room/ suite Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair, which only opened in June 2024:-

Deceptive Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair

The non-distinct exterior of the hotel makes it a surprise when you come through the doors and see the glamorous staircase down to the vast restaurant atrium filled with light from the large skylight.

Excitement That I Had Arrived 

There is no imposing lobby but lots of green marble & from the doorman, to the concierge desk, to reception, I was welcomed by name with big smiles and a genuine feeling of warmth & excitement that I had arrived.

A Welcome With Asian Touches 

A cold towel & ginger welcome drink was a nice touch of Asia and Manager Helmut and Kate (Director of Marketing & Communications) both came separately to welcome me personally.

An Exquisite Suite with Hand-Painted Wallpaper

My suite was more compact than I experienced during my stays in the other new luxury hotels in London but was beautiful and quiet with a Toto (Japanese) toilet and a vast bed. There was also a large bath & shower.

Discreet Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair in Hanover Square 

I have already posted this month how excited I am about November 2025 & my stay at Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair has since been confirmed.

It was include a Chef's Table dinner by Chef Jihun Kim in Somssi with a Korean inspired tasting menu & a spa treatment.  

On 5 November I will also get to try the new cocktails in their rooftop Hanover Bar, while watching the Bonfire Night fireworks. 

My Niece's Birthday & The Refurbished Penthouse at Four Seasons, Tower Bridge

The Sunday all you can eat dim sum brunch at Four Seasons, Tower Bridge was a chance to celebrate my Moscow based Niece's birthday long distance, view the hotel's refurbished penthouse & drink an 'SF Martini'. 

The second cover photo is of the 'Secret Garden' inside the penthouse and the doors inside the penthouse and made of inlaid wood by Viscount Linley. You can rent the penthouse for £50,000 a night.

Beef Wellington; Formula One Cars; Diwali; Fresh Mooncakes & Divine Dim Sum at Peninsula, London

​From MD Rolf offering I could perch on their Formula One car for the photo (I, politely, declined this); to Chef Saravanan Chamy arranging for me to try smaller versions of all the dishes on their Diwali menu (include Salt Marsh Lamb Biriani with gold in it); to Chef Ling Ling Zeng's freshly baked mooncakes; to Hotel Manager Scott personally delivering the Financial Times & New York Times to me in 'Canton Blue' & Chef Ling Ling Zeng letting me try one of every delicate dim sum on their menu and F&B Directory Anthony showing me their David Hockney painted BWM, once again, cannot say enough good things about Peninsula, London.

​45 Park Lane; Flawless Food & Service

The good value steak & salad lunchtime deal at 45 Park Lane meant I visited it more than once during the month. 

On my lastest visit Emily (the CUT Restaurant Manager) served me Ruinart champagne and the Wagyu beef with shaved truffles dish I missed out on when Chef Elliott Grover catered Hormazd Narielwalla's book launch at Hackett on Savile Row.

The perfection of everything at 45 Park Lane made me even more excited about the 'Too Many Cooks' dinner there this month.

Mum Happy & Comfortable and Shrewsbury 

I managed to squeeze in a visit to Shrewsbury where I visited her every day and even had a 'Robert Omelette' at The Ol' Chemist.

​On one of the visits to mum, her brilliant friend Pat Davies had us both laughing.

The Difficult to Book Eagle Bar at The Chancery Rosewood

I took the CEO of Jordan International Bank Plc to The Eagle Bar at The Chancery Rosewood. He was impressed by the service he received once he mentioned he was my guest.

The only problem was we tried to sit inside but the noise levels meant we had to move outside.

All Peninsula, London & 45 Park Lane did for me, combined with receiving the exceptional details regarding my Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair stay & my treatment at The Emory, make it another unprecedented '9 teddies'    (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) month.

Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair in Hanover Square

I am very proud to be one of the first people to be presented with one of Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair's new VIP cards, which offers discounts when using the hotel.

During October 2025 I had lunch with Helmut, the new Hotel Manager. We ate lobster ravioli with ginger and the occasion called for Ruinart champagne. After lunch GM Hemal came to say hello and then Marcel, GM of Mandarin Oriental, Manhattan came to chat with me. 

All this has made me even more eager to stay at Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair next month. I have had a special relationship with Hanover Square since Bob Payton's Chicago Pizza Pie Factory was based in the square in the 1990s.

The Emory in Belgravia 

My stay at The Emory in Belgravia has been confirmed at the end of next month. I am taking Issy there next week to be measured for his first Maybourne outfit.

The Emory is the latest hotel in a group that includes Claridge's, The Connaught etc and an architectural masterpiece by the late Richard Rogers' practice, with just 60 suites and a penthouse. Described as a hidden world of discreet understated luxury.

The restaurant is 'abc kitchens' by Jean-Georges Vongerichten ("JGV"). I have eaten in the New York original and have dinner booked in The Connaught Grill, also by JGV, with Roland, COO of Maybourne, next month too.

​My 'SF Martini' will be served in their Rooftop Bar with panoramic views of London and my suite will have a butler, fully stocked complimentary mini-bar, floor-to-ceiling window looking out over  Hyde Park, Surrenne bath products and a Japanese Toto toilet.

Dinner by Heston Blumenthal at Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park; A Meal Cooked by Mark Hix, Elliott Grover, Tom Parker Bowles, Jack Stein etc at 45 Park Lane & Peninsula, London's Christmas Tree Lighting

I am being invited to pre-Christmas events by Peninsula, London; Pan Pacific, London; Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park; 45 Park Lane; Raffles, London at The OWO etc.

​A Heston Blumenthal lunch with Flavia, Mandarin Oriental's Area Vice President, Operations should be fascinating and a 'Too Many Cooks' dinner at 45 Park Lane involving Chef Elliott Grover, Chef Mark Hix, Tom Parker Bowles, Chef Jack Stein etc would give a chance to ask about HRH King Charles' 'Wet Martini' while eating white truffle Ruinart champagne risotto; grilled langoustines, Pernod & tarragon and sugar pit beef cheek, carrot puree, mixed carrots & carrot top pesto.

You will see that November 2025 is likely to break my 'teddy scoring system' again.

It was a rollercoaster of a month. From having to process bad news about one of my best friend's health & mum's rapidly declining well-being; to the 'SF Martini' being served in The Eagle Bar at The Chancery Rosewood and The Spy Bar at Raffles, London at The OWO again; & celebrating Sophia taking up her place studying for her master's degree in law at Cambridge.  

Artist Hormazd ​Narielwalla's Glamorous & Fun Book Launch at Hackett on Savile Row

As soon as I learnt Chef Elliott Grover, from CUT at 45 Park Lane, was providing the food for this book launch, I knew it would be a special event.

The book looks stunning; Hackett's Savile Row Head Office is so elegant and Hormazd is charming & friendly. 

I Won Prizes at Prestfelde Prep School 

Sarah Dyas helped to arrange for me to have lunch with 'new' Headmaster Matty Thavenot in his study and the two of them took me on a tour of my former prep school.

It was such a happy morning and I was surprised to learn I was in Form IIA and won the form prize for 1979 - 1980. Would wholeheartedly recommend that fellow Old Prestfeldians revisit the school.

Kenny Ng; Shrewsbury School's Old Salopian Day & Visiting Mum

Shrewsbury School's Old Salopian Day meant I got to meet Kenny Ng again. Chicago, Bangkok and now Shrewsbury again. Was also glad to see Ruby Read's art show.

Mum's health is declining fast. She should now use a walking stick when walking without help. Since I have returned to London she has also been having severe back pain.

Networking at Forward Global's UK Late Summer Drinks

​Forward Global's party at the National Liberal Club turned out to be an exceptional  networking event and worth specially returning to London for.

At the party I was also lent a book concerning a friend from my Qatar days and his Warhol prints.

Hemal Jain, Now GM of Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair

Hemal & I spent too long talking but we knew each other from Four Seasons, Doha & we had so many stories to share about Jeff Bezos etc.

I was informed I will be one of the first people to receive the hotel's new VIP card and Hemel wants to arrange for me to stay at the hotel before the end of this year.

The Eagle Bar at The Chancery Rosewood and The Spy Bar at Raffles, London at The OWO

Celebrating Sophia taking up her place at Cambridge was the perfect excuse for one of the best Saturday evenings I have experienced in London.

Seeing Tala and her, after 9 years, was unbelievable. Sophia is now a charming young lady and I wonder if we are the first people to have visited The Eagle Bar, & The Spy Bar, in one evening. Must, particularly, thank Daniel at the former & Kiki at the latter.

An '8 teddies''month (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻), despite bad health news. Staying at Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair will be a perfect way to end my year centred around the new London 5 star hotels and the fact I will see more of Tala is brilliant news.

The Chancery Rosewood is the talk of hoteliers here in London and I used to visit Finnish-American Eero Saarinen's US Embassy building in the 1990s, on behalf of the Bank of England. We drank in the basement bar with Embassy staff & US Marines would come to tell you when it was time to leave.

I have visited the TWA Hotel at JFK, Eero Saarinen was also the architect for this, and was stunned by that magnificent building. There is an August 2022 post about that.

Bentley Perfection 

As soon as I saw the long wheelbase Bentley waiting in the Barbican to collect me, I knew I was in for a very special stay. Talking to driver Andrei on the journey confirmed this.

A Very Happy Welcome from Familiar Faces

I was welcomed to the 144 suite David Chipperfield redesigned The Chancery Rosewood at 24 - 31 Grosvenor Square by Nicole & Conor, who I knew from Pan Pacific, London, and my Butler Lidia.  The grand ceremonial staircase, and hotel lobby, are very impressive.

Checked-in in my Stunning Suite

Butler Lidia undertook an in suite check-in, while pouring me a glass of Pol Roger champagne. Does life get much better than that.

There was a special cocktail for Issy too, as well as a vest made for him out of the green patterned fabric the hotel's pyjamas (which cost US$1,100) are made from. The pattern includes an eagle motif and an 18 Century map of Grosvenor Square. 

​The Weekend Financial Times & New York Times were all waiting for me. 

My initials were not just on the pillow but on the suite key card and a bathroom towel too.  

Loved the smell of the 'Never Go Alone' bath products in my huge marble bathroom and the fact they were made in Somerset. 

GSQ: A Delicatessen with Outside Seating Overlooking Grosvenor Square 

​Lunch was a Reuben sandwich sitting outside in the hotel's delicatessen GSQ. Delicious but difficult to eat in a dignified manner. The dressing on the side salad was mouth-wateringly good.

August 2025 was an unbelievable month in so many ways, From caviar at Raffles, London at The OWO & 45 Park Lane; to "no bill for you Mr Frew" heard at 45 Park Lane, Peninsula, London, Four Seasons, London at Tower Bridge etc it was magical month, despite the Air Canada strike.

The Chancery Rosewood in the Former US Embassy in Grosvenor Square

I am posting about August 2025 a few days early because the month will end with my check-in at The Chancery Rosewood this weekend and waking up in September 2025 there.

Legendary Hotel Professional Roland Fasel

My lunch with Roland Fasel in 'Jean-Georges' abc kitchens' at The Emory was entertaining, informative & full of laughs.

Our mutual thought that the beetroot carpaccio reminded us of our mothers' cooking had Roland joking that "we are country bumpkins from Shropshire & Switzerland."

Celebrity Chef Elliott Grover at 45 Park Lane

Each morning I switch on the TV in Shrewsbury Chef Elliott Grover seems to feature but appearing on Instagram in Big John Fisher's Romford kitchen is even more impressive.

It was, therefore, incredible for him to personally make me the best blinis of my life (& I have been to Moscow) at 45 Park Lane's Côte d'Azur experience.

With Ruinart champagne; my own tin of King's Imperial Caviar; caviar doughnuts & a USDA Prime Ribeye Philly Cheese Steak, with an insanely good sauce, the food was exceptional and the whole thing far better than the South of France.

The 'Robert Omelette' at The Ol' Chemist in Shrewsbury & Two 90th Birthdays 

In Shrewsbury I celebrated three birthdays. At Bob's at The Ol' Chemist Chef Jamie produced his spicy & delicious 'Robert Omelette' again.  Not on the menu yet but people can order it. We celebrated Bob's birthday the next day, with mum again, over porridge. 

The other two birthdays were the 90th birthdays for a couple with birthdays one month apart. A retired orthopedic surgeon, & artist, sang at his own 90th birthday party, accompanied by his grandson. It was an extraordinary birthday party meeting all that family again and quite a day for me, taking mum to St Chad's that morning. 

Peninsula, London & the Air Canada Strike

The Air Canada strike meant a Canadian family I adore missed out on their Paris/ London vacation. Peninsula, London agreed to help cheer me up & exceeded my high exceptions, as usual. 

From their Cantonese breakfast; to swimming in their pool again; to mooncake ice cream with pistachio nut chocolate; to their Dandan noodles back in The Barbican. A heavenly Peninsula morning. 

The Best Cooked Breakfast in London

Chef Yannick Alleno's breakfast in Pavyllon at Four Seasons at Park Lane is back to being one of the best in London but the cooked breakfast at Raffles, London at The OWO continues to be exceptional. I wonder what The Chancery Rosewood's hot breakfast will comprise of. Their menus are not public still.

​My check-in at The Chancery Rosewood, combined with all the other incredible things that I experienced in August 2025, make it an unprecedented '9 teddies'    (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) month.

When a visit to the Soho Farmhouse, where we drank champagne in the sunshine, & using a different barber, do not rate paragraphs, you know it was too good a month.

It was an epic month by any standards. My Barbican window boxes have never looked so good and watching bees & butterflies enjoying them brings me so much joy.

Soleil (Sun) by Claude Bosi on the 8th Floor of Peninsula, London

While the weather for the launch was damp & overcast, lemons from Calabria, perfect soft scrambled eggs, David (Director of Rooms), Scott (Manager) etc coming to chat & Chef Francesco Dibenedetto presenting me with a very special bottle of his family's olive oil made it a perfect way to start a special month.

The Mark Hotel New York's Hotdogs at The Connaught 

The Mark in New York's hotdog stand sold  beef or chicken hotdogs but in London Jean-Georges Vongerichten served turkey hotdogs. Delicious but I would have preferred beef. However, still a good way to mark 4th of July. 

The next week I returned to The Connaught for their sublime scrambled eggs with black truffles breakfast and to meet MD Sandeep Bhalla properly. Issy now has a Connaught hound staff pin.

My New Dante, NYC at Claridge's Baseball Cap

​With lunch with COO Roland Fasel at abc kitchens at The Emory next week, it has been a very Maybourne couple of months.

Dante, NYC was such a fun experience at Claridge's. I had huevos rancheros; a Fluffy Margarita Royale;  met Dante owner Linden Pride and his sweet daughter and Claridge's Restaurant Manager Will Rogers presented me with a baseball cap to mark the occasion that I now treasure.

30 Years of Chef Heston Blumenthal at The Fat Duck at Bray at Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park

Another dream came true during the month. Eating Snail Porridge, while drinking an 'SF Martini'.

The Heston dishes were all divine (who knew white chocolate goes with caviar) & his triple cooked chips, dipped in a bone marrow gravy, were insanely good. 

It was such a memorable meal & being presented with a further bottle of the scent of Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park was the perfect way to end the evening.

A Beautiful Ceremony to Bury Dad's Ashes in the Graveyard at St Chad's

Dad's brother Roland & Aunt Tricia came down from Scotland for this ceremony in Shrewsbury and Vicar Sam did a brilliant job, even mentioning dad's late brother George & his Moscow based granddaughter Maria.

The spot in the graveyard where they are buried is beautiful and mum even kept some of the roses we were meant to scatter.

Chef Tom Booton's 'Last' Meal in The Grill at The Dorchester

​The month culminated with an exquisite Chef Tom Booton lunch. Everyone should get to eat Tom's chicken at least once in their lives.

​The quality of the apron I was given with my name embroidered on it says it all.

The above text justifies an '8 teddies'    (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) month score but I should also mention breakfast at Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair where I was given more of their hotel scent; getting to try the 'Robert Omelette' at the Ol' Chemist in Shrewsbury; Tanja's unforgettable birthday party; and consistent perfection from The Wolseley, The City; C Sons, Shrewsbury & The Golden Cross.

A Family Sunday in Shrewsbury

June 2025 started with me making my own Sunday breakfast in Shrewsbury using Marco Pierre White's technique for soft scrambled eggs & sausages from Shrewsbury Market Hall. After this I took mum to St Chad's church and then for Sunday lunch at The Golden Cross with my brother. Their melt in the mouth roast beef never disappoints.

​Obsessed With Peninsula, London's Noodles

I visited the Little Blue Noodle Bar two further times in June. On the first visit Anthony, F&B Director, served me perfectly chilled champagne and Chef Saravanan Chamy sent me delicate & delicious dim sum from Canton Blue.

​I tried the off menu noodle dish and so am now ahead of Financial Times food critic Jay Rayner. The Peninsula, London attracts fascinating customers and I had fun chatting to a couple who were both poets.

My second visit was after a Shrewsbury School informal networking event for people working in financial services.  It was held in Belgravia and so, after, I got takeout dandan spicy noodles from the Little Blue Noodle Bar. They tasted even better after sitting in the takeout container for a few hours.

Never Get Tired of The Dorchester  

I also went for breakfast in The Promenade at The Dorchester again. They always exceeded by expectations and writing a personalised message on my cappuccino was a brilliant touch.

​A Pan Pacific, London Cake for The King's Official Birthday 

On the Saturday of the King's Official Birthday I had breakfast at Pan Pacific, London. They surprised me, again, with a cake. The staff there are brilliant. I watched the flypast from the 30th floor of The Barbican.

Sublime Meals at Raffles, London at The OWO 

My Saturday breakfast at Raffles, London at The OWO was so good I returned for their 'Sunday Feast' the next day. Both meals were superb. 

Chef Paul Ainsworth at The Giorgio Armani Tennis Classic at The Hurlingham Club

Four Seasons Yachts took me to The Giorgio Armani Tennis Classic at The Hurlingham Club. I had breakfast at Four Seasons at Park Lane before it, which could not have been better.

The Hurlingham Club is a beautiful oasis and, if that afternoon/ evening are any indication of what the Four Seasons Yacht will be like, it will be a huge success. Amanda, Nils and Camille embody the spirit of Four Seasons.

I was surprised Chef Paul Ainsworth was able to produce such an impeccable main course for so many people. 

Fiddler of the Roof  & Cartier Exhibition at The V&A

​Cannot say enough good things about Fiddler on the Roof at The Barbican Centre, the acrobatic dancing, the songs you know so well etc; or the Cartier Exhibition with HSH Princess Grace of Monaco's tiara, the Cartier collaboration with Faberge, Al Thani family tiaras etc. Have no hesitation about recommending both.

Four Seasons Tower Bridge Help Another of My Dreams to Come True

Tower Bridge was opening for The Royal Thames Yacht Club's 250th Anniversary Boat Parade and they let me watch this, for the first time, from the balcony of Residence No 1, where part of 50th birthday celebrations were held. I drank an 'SF Martini' after to celebrate. Another unbelievable Saturday. 

6 cover photos evidence June 2025  was another '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) month. I must also mention another  special lunch at Wiltons; that Fish Central was a great find for dinner; another Sunday lunch at Story Cellar that was perfect, I even drank an 'SF Martini' there; & a friend's party at The Groucho Club. The speech at the latter made me emotional, her references to me in it were too kind.

Celebrating VE Day at Peninsula, London with Beef Wellington with Black Truffles

I watched the VE Day flypast from the Concorde themed Brooklands Bar at Peninsula, London, which looks over the gardens of Buckingham Palace. Quite a place to watch it from.

Then I went down to The Lobby to eat Beef Wellington, with black truffles, personally cooked by Chef Saravanan Chamy, who previously worked at The Dorchester. It was better than Chef Gordon Ramsay's Beef Wellington at The Savoy. Never thought I would be able to say that.

Later in the month Wiltons matched Peninsula, London's  Beef Wellington but they have been perfecting their dishes since 1742.

Lunch at 45 Park Lane & Dinner at The Aubrey at Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park With a Friend From Rome

At lunch at 45 Park Lane with my friend from Rome, Chef Elliott Grover and his team treated us as VIPs. From Ruinart champagne, to too many Wolfgang Puck signature snacks to count and a Passion Fruit Baked Alaska that was dreamily refreshing.

My face, in the cover photo, says everything about our dinner in The Aubrey. It was such a beautiful room and the bone marrow rice was even better the second time. Romain, and his Mandarin Oriental team, spoilt us with double portions of Iberico Pork etc.

My Rome friend is a joy to spend time with & I was so glad to try to help her with her daughter's 18th birthday celebrations.

GM of Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair Leaving 

During May 2025 Susanne, GM of Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair, emailed me that she is moving within Mandarin Oriental Group. We first met when she was GM of Mandarin Oriental, Manhattan.

It was another month where I had a flawless breakfast  at their Mayfair hotel and was even given the scent of that hotel, to add to my expanding hotel fragrance collection.

The New Patisserie at Pan Pacific, London 

Pan Pacific, London are always so kind to me. They give me champagne each time I go for breakfast. However, on my May 2025 visit, their new Patisserie had opened. I selected cakes and macarons and, even I, was surprised when they then said "no bill for you Mr Frew".

The cakes were light and delicious and the macarons so fresh they reminded me of ones I had at the Four Seasons George V in Paris.

Flowers Inside & Outside My Barbican Place. Philip & Bruce Are Floral Geniuses 
​
May 2025 was the month my Barbican window boxes were redone in the style of a pre-COVID-19 Four Seasons at Park Lane design, with lavender & rosemary to provide fragrance this summer.

The weekend of the work I ordered Dorchester hotel flowers from Philip Hammond again, including purples to celebrate 45 Park Lane and Dorchester hotel roses. I was so thrilled with them and the work Bruce has done on my window boxes. 

Perfect Four Seasons in London

I visited the breakfast buffet at Four Seasons, Tower Bridge twice in the month, it is so good. 

At Four Seasons at Park Lane Peter made Issy an 'SF Martini', with the special vermouth from The Lana Hotel in Dubai (part of Dorchester Collection). I almost cried over this thoughtful surprise. 

Foodie Shrewsbury & Mum Looking So Healthy 

From a seasonal asparagus breakfast at C Sons; to mouthwatering steaks & fun cocktails at The Ol'Chemist; to the melt in the mouth roast beef at The Golden Cross, food in Shrewsbury keeps getting even better.

It should also be noted that the Wagyu Oxtail & Bone Marrow Fried Rice we ate in Knightsbridge cost £26, while Bone Marrow Mash at The Ol-Chemist costs £4.

​
It has to be another '8 teddies' score (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) for May 2025. I have not even mentioned my night at The Waldorf Hilton with one of my best friends from Qatar. Another evening with him I will never forget. If you click 'Read More' there are photos from that night. The fact mum is cared for so well is another factor in this high score.

May 2025 has had an exceptional start already, with an unforgettable Early May Bank Holiday VE Day at Peninsula, London & fabulous lunch with my friend from Rome, at 45 Park Lane but you will all have to wait util next month to hear about all that.

A 'Last' Slice of Birthday Cake at Mount Street Restaurant 

I started April 2025 eating a perfect bacon chop breakfast at Mount Street Restaurant surrounded by £50MN of art.

At the end of breakfast I was brought a deliciously moreish slice of chocolate fudge birthday cake, to celebrate the previous month's birthday. 

Birthday Balloons at Four Seasons, Tower Bridge 

Four Seasons, Tower Bridge made up for the lack of birthday balloons at Four Seasons at Park Lane  at a breakfast in April too. It was a buffet breakfast but the hot items were freshly, & perfectly, cooked (eg soft scrambled eggs) and the cold items were delectable (eg beetroot smoked salmon). 

After this I picked up a Pavyllon, London Easter Egg from Four Seasons at Park Lane. It smelt incredible.

Chef Tom Booton's Grill at The Dorchester

Before I left for Shrewsbury I had to experience The Grill at The Dorchester. The butter shaped as a jelly mould in the photo gives an indication of the attention to detail.

During that breakfast I wrote an important note to the mother of my godson. She has 'ghosted' me since I let her stay at my Barbican place last year, during my 6 week trip to mark 10 years of www.sifrew.com

I was pleading with her, again, to return the set of keys for my place she borrowed from the porters in my building for her  stay. 'Ghosting' is such a cruel way deal with someone who has been a friend for more than 30 years.

Another '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) month. The birthday balloons at Four Seasons, Tower Bridge; an exclusive chance to sample the 'Little Blue Noodle Bar' @ Peninsula, London (press 'Read More' for that write-up & photos) and mum being so physically well & happy are all I could have hoped for.

The Four Seasons at Park Lane Easter Egg was the best I have EVER eaten. Dark chocolate from Peru & a silky hazelnut praline filling. Peninsula, London gave me a bar of their version of Dubai chocolate was equally delicious.  Also need to mention my Black Pudding Eggs Benedict at Fallow. An exceptional breakfast dish.

Just booked Easter in Shrewsbury with mum. She loves this time of year.

A Birthday Surrounded by Love

Gus from Uruguay, & his sister Laura, celebrating my birthday with me would have been special anyway but going to The Royal Opera House to watch a George Balanchine ballet, drinking Veuve Clicquot champagne in the interval, was better than anything.

Our friend Johan treating us all to dinners (including Yauatcha & The Wolseley) was so kind & generous. We all drank 'SF Martinis' in The Wolseley, and ate my birthday cake from 45 Park Lane, on the evening of Gus & my birthdays. Complete perfection. 

My 'Birthday Eve', Almost Better Than My Birthday 

The day before my birthday started at Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park with balloons, complimentary champagne, an extra portion of dim sum and my 'usual' table watching the Household Cavalry ride past, while talking to Pim about the earthquake in Myanmar, Vietnam and Thailand. 

Outside Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park the Peninsula, London's vintage Rolls-Royce was waiting for me.

Peninsula, London Keep Exceeded My Expectations 

At Peninsula, London MD Rolf, Manager Scott and the Peninsula, London teddy bear were waiting to greet me. Rolf told me the vintage Rolls-Royce took 5 years to refurbish to Peninsula's standards.

Up in Concorde/ Rolls-Royce themed 'Brooklands Bar' 'The Si Frew' cocktail had been created in my honour and was refreshingly delicious. 

While I was in the bar Chef Francesco Dibenedetto came to chat again and later presented me with a bottle of olive oil from his parents' place in Italy. I was overwhelmed by this, and two bottles of the 'The Si Frew' cocktail with special Peninsula labels.

The Royal Opera House 

It was 30 years since I last saw a ballet at The Royal Opera House. The evening was a surreal experience made even better by sitting next to Laura.

Another Si Frew Birthday 

The actual day of my birthday started with breakfast at Four Seasons, London at Park Lane and hugs from their staff.

There were no balloons this year, or complimentary champagne, but Emma from Qatar joining me for a champagne breakfast more than made up for this, and the reduced birthday cake.

My gift was a Four Seasons pillow case personalised with my initials. Love this & it is already on my Dorchester hotel bed here in The Barbican. My Barbican bedroom currently smells like 45 Park Lane, thanks to one of their birthday gifts. 

45 Park Lane Keep Blowing My Mind

Nothing about my birthday lunch at 45 Park Lane could have been any better.

A balloon on a golden thread; the 'SF Martini' being on another Wolfgang Puck cocktail list with beautiful wording; Chef Elliott Grover's mind-blowing good Wagyu steaks; another impressive (& delicious) birthday cake and Emily, Veronica and all the staff making me feel like a VVVIP.

Gifts including Ruinart champagne, and then being told my bill had been covered was just too much.

A Deep Tissue Adaptogenic Massage & Snow Shower at Surrenne at 'The Emory' 

In the afternoon was my complimentary spa experience at The Emory, thanks to Roland Fasel at Maybourne Hotels.

Before the massage I tried the pool and snow shower. My massage involved infrared and music therapy. It was so relaxing, special and perfect.

I left my iPhone charging cable in the Surrenne spa. One of the concierges at Four Seasons, London at Park Lane went to retrieve this, while I was at dinner at The Wolseley. Four Seasons service at its best.

After Dinner at The Wolseley Drinks at Four Seasons, London at Park Lane

After dinner we returned to Four Seasons, London at Park Lane. I had left my gifts there &, as I said, their concierges were retrieving my charging cable.

We decided to have some last drinks and separate birthday cakes were produced for Gus & me. Peter did not charge me for my 'last SF Martini', which was a very kind gesture at the end of a perfect birthday day & helped to made up for the lack of complimentary champagne that morning.

Breakfast at Raffles, London at The OWO

​The last of my birthday celebrations had to be at Raffles, London at The OWO. MD Philippe, and Manager Patrick, are both leaving in June 2025 but they have been so kind and generous to me and Philippe will become CEO of Dorchester Collection, including 45 Park Lane.

It was also UK Mothering Sunday and so I rang my mum and she had received my card with the photo of her I love on it.  

I was so pleased Natalia was running breakfast again but sad to hear 'La Dame de Pic', the Anne-Sophie Pic restaurant at Four Seasons, Tower Bridge has closed down. 

​A birthday that rates 9 cover photos is clearly an '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) one. 45 Park Lane; Peninsula, London & The Emory all went way beyond the call of duty. My TWA Hotel bag now also sports a Peninsula luggage tag.

Having just 'survived' a particularly nasty bout of flu, felt I must explain the last few weeks.

Another Dream Comes True 

Meeting Chef Nobu Matsuhisa was another dream come true and GM Grant Campbell & his team at Nobu Hotel London Portman Square made it such a special Sunday afternoon.

The 'SF Martini' was served again; Nobu's signature dishes are always much better than I expect & talking abut Nobu partner Robert De Niro was fascinating., 

​Unbelievable Japanese Dishes on The Roof of Raffles, London at The OWO

Various people had recommended 'Kioku by Endo' on the roof of Raffles, London at The OWO and so I had to try it.

The views from there are spectacular and you must try their fatty tuna. My monkfish dish with smoked eel and watercress & ginger sauce was exceptional.

​Breakfast at Pavyllon at Four Seasons, London at Park Lane

I had breakfasts at both Four Seasons in London after I got back from Shrewsbury.

The breakfasts at Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge continue to impress but the Park Lane hotel has been picked for my birthday weekend. 

It was good to meet with GM Lynn Brutman again and talk about Chef Yannick Alleno's stipulation that there must be a French twist to their breakfasts.

The Best Birthday Mum Could Have Had

I went to Shrewsbury to celebrate mum's 82nd birthday.

From a perfect dinner with her in The Golden Cross; to a family Sunday lunch with her including my brother and me; to a beautiful cashmere scarf gift from one of her best friends; to me arriving on the day of her birthday to find a family friend already visiting her, it could not have gone any better.

The 'SF Martini' Served in The 'Spy Bar' at Raffles, London at The OWO; Pie, Mash & Liquor at The Grill by Tom Booton at The Dorchester; The 'Big Matt' at Hawksmoor, Guildhall & 'Pancake Day' at The Ivy City Garden

It was a few weeks of many exceptional dining & 'SF Martini' experiences (eg Chef Tom Booton's collaboration with pie & mash shop G Kelly led to a sublime chicken & mushroom pie, made even better by chilli vinegar. That, combined with the smooth mash & flavoursome liquor, made it all heaven on a plate).

Kiki and the team in the 'Spy Bar' at Raffles, London at The OWO are phenomenal.

Has The Ivy Expanded Too Far? & The Quality of the Ingredients in One Aldwych's Breakfast Should Justify Their High Prices

My only negative comments are that service at The Ivy City Garden was appalling (eg a drink ordered but forgotten and food & drinks not ordered attempted to be served several times). 

The pastries served at One Aldwych were not fresh and the tomatoes, in my chorizo & egg dish, tasted processed, as did the Kent apple juice. 

'SF Martini' Created by The Lana, Dubai, a Dorchester Collection Hotel

My 'SF Martini' will be served in The Wolseley on 29 March, the actual day of my birthday, thanks to The Dorchester. Still cannot believe I will be able to use The Peninsula, London's extended wheelbase green Rolls-Royce again on my 'Birthday Eve'.
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​It was another '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) few weeks, despite my illness. the afternoon with Chef Nobu alone would justify that score. Hope you enjoy the photos below.

I have breakfast with Roland Fasel again at Claridge's tomorrow. He is COO of Maybourne, which manages Claridge's, The Connaught, The Emory etc. We have know each other for more than 20 years. We first met when he was GM of The Dorchester. 

It is a little ironic that The Emory are the only hotel not to have replied to any of my numerous messages about swimming in their pool on my birthday.

Two Christmases & two New Years, justify an unprecedented 6 cover photos.

An Unimaginably Perfect Christmas & New Year in London

From meeting Gavin (from my Shrewsbury School days) and his daughter Esther at 45 Park Lane for a Chef Elliott Grover lunch just before Christmas, they live in Fiji;  to Four Seasons at Park Lane's astonishing disco Christmas tree; to friends  from my Bermuda days, & their family, hosting me for Christmas Day & New Year's Eve on the 30th floor of The Barbican in unbelievable style (eg Michel Roux Jr Beef Wellington; a Christmas gift from Creed Fragrances  etc), my first Christmas in London could not have been better and the strong winds on New Year's blew away the smoke and gave us an perfect view of London's New Year fireworks.

Dorchester Collection Continue to Be Difficult to Beat

On Christmas morning I ate a Dorchester hotel breakfast in my Barbican place opening sensational Christmas gifts from 45 Park Lane. Ruinart champagne, a spa candle, an 'It's a Wonderful Life' decoration from their Christmas tree etc. Pure class.

Chef Tom Booton's Sunday lunches in 'The Grill by Tom Booton' are sensational & they recently served me a 'SF Martini', created by The Lana, Dorchester Collection's `Dubai hotel.

Orthodox Christmas in Shrewsbury 
 
Although I was unable to spend 25 December with mum, we did spend the Gregorian Christmas together. We pulled crackers from Claridge's & The Dorchester and video called her granddaughter in Moscow.

The Year of the Snake 

I celebrated Chinese New Year at Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge. Adored my 'free' 'Wood Snake' cocktail and my chocolate coated kumquat & oolong tea  dessert was exquisite.

Thanks to Martine at Four Seasons Hotel London at Tower Bridge I now have one of the only teddy bears reflecting the new name of that Four Seasons.

​Hope the photos below convince you it was a '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) Christmas and New Year. Must also mention 'free' Moet pink champagne, & chocolates, at breakfast at Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair & the beautiful emails from their GM.  Pan Pacific, London continue to provide 'free' Laurent Perrier champagne too.

​I meet Chef Nobu this weekend. Another dream comes true. Just sad I have not heard from the mother of my godson over Christmas or New Year but 'phone calls with my friend in New York keep me cheerful.

My 'Epic Trip' to mark 10 years of this blog was so unbelievable it has taken some time to recover from and hence my silence since my 15 posts about it.

ABar Rooftop at Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair 

Shortly after returning to London the rooftop at Mandarin Oriental, Mayfair opened and I had to visit it. It is a beautiful space and the high quality of the furniture (& the view) took my breath away. 

There was Moet champagne, a delicious cake topped with raspberries and a card that almost made me cry. Various staff (including GM Susanne) came to say hello. What an experience.

A Gift at Breakfast at Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park 

Also have to thank Mandarin Oriental, Hyde Park for the framed collage of photos of various special moments at Mandarin Oriental in London & Bangkok. 

My Friends are the Best 

​A Sunday lunch at Hawksmoor, Seven Dials, & breakfast at Firmdale's Covent Garden Hotel, let me meet friends from Dubai & Qatar again.

​Elizabeth Solaru's 'The LUXPreneur'

I read the inscription in the book Elizabeth sent me at Raffles, London at The OWO. Once again, I was near tears.

After breakfast I released my flower from my 'Ganesha Ceremony' at Four Seasons, Chiang Mai on The Thames. 

Grant Thornton's Banking and Capital Markets Conference 

I attended a Grant Thornton banking conference shortly after my return and it was an excellent way to get up to speed with various current topics in banking. 

​A Pre-Christmas Visit to Shrewsbury to See Mum

​I squeezed in a pre-Christmas visit to see mum and was so pleased to find how well she had been looked after while I was in Thailand and the Middle East. 

​My  '8 teddies' (🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻🐻) experiences continued after my return to the UK. Hope people enjoy the photos below. I am still wearing my blessings bracelet from the Four Seasons Tented Camp in The Golden Triangle.