For many, Nobu Hotel London Portman Square needs no introduction, the namesake of the empire-building restaurant chef, Nobuyuki Matsuhisa. Nobu Hotel London Portman Square stays true to his core characteristics in a fantastically central London location, with a few decadent distinctions and access to private Portman Square.
Each of the hotel’s 249 rooms and suites are elegant in restrained minimalism. You don’t have to check into the most expensive suite here to have a balcony overlooking Marylebone and beyond, but the vast wraparound terraces attached to the penthouse suites are amazing. Rooms come in seven categories and all feature the same sleek minimalist design. The beautifully decorated, simple designs with the goal of tranquility include subtle tones, soft wooden furnishings and calming original prints. Black metal detailing pays homage to the wrought-iron gates of neighboring Portman Square, while Japanese touches include lantern-style lights, bonsai trees and traditional tea sets.
All ages are welcome, but this sophisticated city stay caters more to adult palates. There’s a special kids’ bento box served in the restaurant and suites can fit a family of three or four.
There are exceptional onsite dining venues. Pioneered by Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, the world-renowned Nobu restaurant serves up a tantalizing menu of Japanese. Nobu Bar serves breakfast until 2 pm daily. The lounge by the lobby also serves lighter fare. The restaurant area, which resembles an upmarket canteen-like space that comes alive in the evenings, showcases an open kitchen and sushi counter.
The ground-floor bar has a moody nightclub feel. There is also a year-round terrace which has been transformed into a Japanese Gin Garden in the past.
The 24-hour gym is state of the art and grand with every conceivable bit of TechnoGym equipment and cardio machines. There is also a juice bar and full Pilates studio filled with top-of-the-line Pilates reformer machines. After the workout you’ll get in the gym, your next stop should be the Spa. Or skip the gym and head straight to the Spa!
Nobu has three treatment rooms offering an array of bespoke treatments including the Nobu Zen – a Nobu Signature Ritual with stretching and massage techniques to balance the body and harmonize the mind. They also offer the 60 minute “Restless traveler ritual” treatment. This consists of dry leg brushing to activate lymphatic drainage and reduce puffiness, followed by a long foot ritual with acupressure before moving to an Indian head massage and antipollution face massage to cleanse and nourish. Traditional spa treatments are also available.
Pets of any size can stay but they cannot be left alone in the room. A leash in public areas is required. A charge does apply for pets.
Nobu Hotel Portman Square has a stellar location in Marylebone just off Oxford Street with the city’s best shopping and restaurants at your fingertips.
