The Stafford London

The food was good, and the setting was lovely, quiet, and private. It worked well for an intimate chat or a work conversation. I came for afternoon tea with a friend, though for a five-star place the service was a letdown. Staff were changing shifts and seemed to disappear. Once the person who first served us left, there wasn’t much attention, and our tea was never topped up. The service didn’t live up to the standard you’d expect.

The terrace is a lovely place, and by all accounts the setting is incredible. I went there with a friend for lunch and a cigar, but the service was hit and miss. The server was polite and attentive in some ways, even picking up on our conversation about Munich and suggesting a Munich beer. I respect the effort to upsell, but he kept trying to clear things from the table even after I said no or asked him to leave them, including nuts and half-full glasses. The £25 burger was one of the worst I’ve ever had: dry, overcooked, with a soggy bun. My friend said it was unusual, but it still made for a poor first visit to the terrace. And don’t order the NOAM beer if you want a good weißbier. It didn’t taste right to me. Calling it a Bavarian Berlin beer makes little sense, since Berlin isn’t in Bavaria. There’s a reason they don’t serve it in Germany. I appreciate the waiter trying, but the knowledge wasn’t there.

We’re London locals and had never been to The Stafford London before, but came away having had a fantastic time. We went to the restaurant by chef Michael Caines and were genuinely impressed by the food and service. The staff were friendly, attentive, and knew their wines and pairings. I just wish I’d had more of an appetite to enjoy every bite and sip. Travellers may know the hotel better, but more Londoners should discover it too. Highly recommended.

We had a gorgeous stay for my birthday last month. Milan and the team really went out of their way to make it memorable. Our huge room had patio access, perfect for morning coffee. The concierge were so attentive, and there was a wide range of breakfast options. We’ll be back!