Why book?
For a sexy stay in London's central Marylebone neighborhood with Nobu's trademark minimalist design (and sushi)
Set the scene
Marylebone is a coveted home base for many London visitors. It's central, for those on business; it's near Hyde and Regent Parks, for those on leisure; and there's a village-like feel, with little pubs and cozy restaurants right outside the front door. You'll see demure, well-dressed types here, but it isn't exactly stuffy—the lobby bar bubbles to life before the sun sets, and the dog-friendly policy mean you might see pampered pups trot past you en route to the elevators.
The backstory
Nobu hotels are rapidly expanding around the world, applying the sleek feel of the brand's popular sushi restaurants to a beach resort in Mexico, a ryokan in Malibu, and a high rise in London, among a dozen or so other offerings (and many more to come). In addition to loyal Nobu guests knowing what to expect in terms of look and feel, this also means Nobu dining on-site—so even if you're feeling exhaustive after check-in, you only have to slink down to the lobby for fantastic sushi.
The rooms
The standard rooms are compact here, with the clean, minimalist feel you'd expect—white, blond woods, and some subtle black-and-white art beside the headboard. The linens are plush, and the beds easy to fall into each night; given the size of the space, that's probably all you'll do here, but the expansive restaurant spaces mean you'll have third spaces for meeting friends for a drink, or low-key dining.
Food and drink
I didn't have a chance to eat dinner here, though I have to think I'm one of the rare few—most people's love of the Nobu brand starts with sushi, which is served for lunch and dinner. I loved breakfast, though, which featured a continental buffet and complimentary hot dishes with a Nobu touch: The Marylebone breakfast, a take on the full English, has miso beans; the banana French toast is made with a soy caramel; and shiso and tamago decorate what would otherwise read as a standard egg-white omelette.
The spa
Treatments range from the classics (results-driven facials, restorative massages) to the unexpected (hair growth treatments) to the hard-core (IVs for post-workout hydration). But this is also the location that debuted Nobu's offering of pilates. (Check ahead to be sure the schedule aligns with your stay—it wasn't offered during my quick overnighter, or I would have certainly tried.) Perhaps the perfect way to work up that sushi appetite?
The neighborhood/area
Make sure to stroll over through the nearby parks for a charming slice of London life.
The service
The service is suited to a high-end hotel serving busy clientele—in calming spa-voices, the staff will help you secure a reservation, guide you through the menu, or offer to grab your bags. It's not invasive though, and you feel left alone until you don't want to be.
For families
The hushed atmosphere doesn't feel ideal for children, and there are no offerings to suggest otherwise. This is a space designed with adults in mind.
22 Portman Square, London W1H 7BG
United Kingdom
https://london-portman.nobuhotels.com/