Artisan at The Westbury Mayfair Hotel

The Westbury Hotel, sometimes referred to as 'America in Mayfair', has the distinction of being the first American hotel to be built in London, and on 1st March 1955 The Westbury was opened by the then American Ambassador, Winthrop Aldrich, who only a few weeks previously had become the first American Ambassador to take up residence at Winfield House in nearby Regent's Park.

Ever since then it has never ceased to carry the role of one of London's major hotels with great distinction. With 249 stylish rooms and suites, including a magnificent penthouse with a large patio overlooking Bond Street, there can be few more impressive hotels in the country.

Furnished very much in the American style The Westbury lends itself well to those who want ultimate luxury and comfort in a fashionable part of London. This is particularly apparent in the Artisan Restaurant, headed up by Daniel Hillier who works from a Modern European menu that is both uncomplicated and ingredient-driven. The elegant design and opulence reflects the habitats of those who regard the hotel with affection, almost as a second home.

For dinner, starters could include ballotine of roast quail with white grape compote, walnuts and brioche, hand-picked Dorset crab with a salad of grilled asparagus, peas and pistachios and fennel cream, or roast Scottish scallops with tapioca and coconut cream, mango and ginger.

The hills of Wales are responsible for, in season, best end of Elwy Valley lamb, pressed shoulder and fricassee of sweetbreads, and spring vegetables. Straight from the coast comes fillet of fresh Dover sole, slow cooked, with wilted spinach, smoked bacon and clams, whilst vegetarians will rejoice in the ricotta gnocchi with fricassée of wild mushrooms and a truffle broth.

The Westbury is very much a place for lunch, offering terrific value as well as intense sociability. A typical lunch could start with Iberian Jabugo ham, celeriac remoulade and toasted sourdough, followed by roast breast of corn fed chicken, with hand made tagliatelle, and a fricassée of wild mushrooms. For dessert perhaps the warm orange pancakes, with bitter chocolate and orange sorbet.

A pre-theatre menu from 5.30pm to 7pm operates from Monday to Saturday, and there could be few more gracious ways in which to start a pleasurable evening out on the town.

The most exacting oenophile could hardly take exception to the wine list, a veritable catalogue of excellence and discerning taste that ranges the world, with more than usual deference to Europe and other more traditional sources. Add to this a standard of service and care for comfort that is exemplary, and it is no wonder that this is one of the best-loved hotels in town.

For those looking for a little exercise there is a gymnasium, and golf can be played at the Stoke Poges Golf Club, with views across the lakes to Windsor Castle and Eton College. Tennis can also be played at the exclusive Vanderbilt Racquet Club, 20 minutes from the hotel.

For further information on dining and staying at The Westbury be sure to click on their Website.