There are few hotels in London with the name power The Savoy has. World-renowned for its butler training academy, the Savoy is in Strand, steps from Covent Garden and the West End. Gordon Ramsay runs The Savoy Grill, the hotel’s premier dining option, and the American Bar was recently named the best bar in Europe.
My first impression as I drove up on the only road in London where you drive on the right, was this is going to be luxurious. I was greeted by a bellman with a top hat and he showed me to the check-in area. Check-in was quick and easy, and although my room wasn’t ready they would call me when it was. I was led up to my room in the tiny green elevator by the concierge.
I was pleasantly surprised when I got up to my room. I booked through American Express Fine Hotels and Resorts, so normally I would get upgraded to the next class of room, but there was none available. For the smallest room category, my room was spacious and comfortable. I loved the bed, and the shower – although there was a very fine line between just right and scalding hot!
The toiletries were by Le Labo. The same company that provided the toiletries for my shower on board the Etihad First Class Apartment.
The rose scent was kind of feminine, but they were still very nice. If you become a member of Fairmont Hotels’ free loyalty program you can have complimentary workout clothes and shoes provided in your room. This is a great feature since I often either forget workout shoes or decide not to bring them because of the precious space in my carry-on.
There are four restaurants, and couple bars in the Savoy. The main restaurants are Kaspar’s Seafood Bar & Grill and the Savoy Grill. Kaspar’s also is where the complimentary breakfast (when booked through AMEX Fine Hotels) is served. I had Eggs Benedict with a side of streaky bacon, some orange juice, and coffee. I thought everything was fantastic.
I didn’t have a chance to visit the Gordon Ramsay run Savoy Grill because I was exhausted from roaming around the city trying to find the best pubs in London! I did try the in-room dining and had a steak with mushrooms and it was very good.
I couldn’t find who rated it the best bar in Europe, but as I was being shown to my room that is what I was told. So naturally, I had to check it out! The atmosphere was dark but fancy. I felt under-dressed in my polo shirt and jeans sitting a couple tables from a man in a tuxedo. There is a huge selection of signature cocktails, but I only tried two.
First, the Pharmacist – Bulleit Rye, Barolo Chinato, Suze, Absinthe, Savoy Grenedine and dehydrated raspberries. Second, the Secret Agent – Woodford Bourbon, Laphroaig Whisky, Cocchi Amaro, absinthe, lemon juice, sugar syrup, and egg white. The secret agent was complete with blood spatter and a bullet hole! I definitely like the secret agent more, but both drinks were very good. I can see why this is the best bar in Europe.
The Savoy has the Great Gatsby glamour updated with modern touches that most people desire. There is no shortage of good food and drinks here, and the location is prime! With the pound being down, now is the time to book your trip to London and splurge on a luxury hotel like The Savoy.