Content: Hakkasan, 17 Bruton Street, London
In our globalized world, dominated by profit hungry players and chain ideology, there are very few, all the more impressive for it, restaurant groups which truly stand out. One such rare gem is the Hakkasan Mayfair, London, member of the Hakkasan restaurant group.
From the moment one enters this conveniently located modern Chinese Mayfair dining haven, everything becomes just so perfect, if only for an hour or so. The sweet, intoxicating scent of incense greets the diner, as the front doors magically opens, at just the right time. The maitre d', Marko, makes sure that you are seated promptly and handles any delays with amazing grace. The buttery soft leather banquettes with intricately embroidered dragons, are not only beautiful but also divinely comfortable; the lighting is spot on; the-just-right pitch of the content customers' choir of voices, allows for even the most discreet conversations to be conducted, while still feeling intimately seated amongst fellow diners. The wait staff is attentive, friendly, knowledgeable, and any query is handled with a smile.
The menu is beyond delicious, with my firm favourites being, 'Tofu, Aubergine & Japanese Mushroom Claypot', 'Salt & Pepper Squid' and 'Truffle Roast Duck'. For all the Asian dessert lovers, 'Coconut & Lime Tapioca' (see photo) is a must. Hakkasan's crowning glory is the cleverly designed bar. The bar top is sleek and glamorous, the bar stools are more comfortable than most restaurant chairs and seat two, and the cocktail menu is great. 'The Lychee Martini' is my current favourite.
There is a beautiful, and obviously difficult to achieve, feeling of seamlessness to the entire dining experience at Hakkasan, whether you are dining en famille, having a business dinner or being treated to a dinner date. I can honestly say that every single one of my Hakkasan, Mayfair, visits, has left me wanting more! Bon appetit!
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