These days, we really look for more in a hotel: we want great fitness, spa and F&B options, as well as the given (excellent location and design) – and Nobu Hotel London Portman Square ticks all of the above, in world-class style.
They say this property embodies the philosophy of shiawase – a celebration of happiness and wellbeing – and you can feel that in every corner of the hotel.
The Hotel
It doesn’t get much more central than this. A stone’s throw from Regent Street, this location gets the best of both worlds: easy access to Soho and the West End, with a neighbourhood feel (you’re very close to Marylebone, too), especially in the rooms on the upper floors. From street level, you feel 100% West End; from above, you feel a bit Charles Dickens.
The Vibe
This is Nobu, and the clientele here is as you’d expect: a quick look around the lobby and almost every table had Bond Street designer shopping bags under it. But there’s also a local scene, too: people that are here for pilates or meetings in The Lounge.
The Rooms
On paper, the Nobu design could be seen as boring: white, taupe and wood. But in person, its simplicity is calm and sophisticated. Standout features include the artwork; views which include the BT Tower and incredible sunrises and sunsets; elegant lighting and mirrors; excellent feng shui overall; sleek wood panelling that hides functional features like doors; Japanese toilets with lots of features and, of course, heated seats; in-room yoga mats and reading materials; kimono robes; and a terrace in some rooms that you can actually open the doors to and go out on.
Restaurants/Bars
They have a Nobu here, which is excellent as always, but a highlight was the layout of the dining room. With all tables in the main section essentially facing in, with windows behind them, there’s a great vibe in here from morning until night.
Energetic Nobu nights, we were expecting, but the atmosphere in the morning, which felt sleek, ‘happening’ and upbeat, was a nice surprise. Who knew inner-city breakfast could almost feel fun?
Wellbeing
The wellbeing offering is definitely a reason to stay here. Known for their pilates, they have two pilates studios with reformers, Cadillac and chair machines, with classes led by excellent teachers. They also have a gym that’s just for guests, a small terrace, and a fridge with healthy cold-pressed juices, workout kit, Nobu merch, and other products for sale.
As for their spa, treatments have been created for this property and highlights include the ‘restless traveller acupuncture ritual’, the lifting and sculpting facial, and the high-tech glow facial. They also have IV therapy and a hair growth clinic.
Visible Sustainable Efforts
Buy a £32 in-room vase (which comes with a germinated acorn, supplied at reception), and profits will go to tree-planting programs across the world.
Highlights
Nobu cuisine in the restaurant, lounge, and for room service, any time of day. The Lounge has a surprisingly great menu; we’ll be back for daytime salads here. We also loved the pilates and the location. This is one restaurant-turned-hotel brand that we can definitely get on board with.
Anything Else
With its central location and Nobu catering options, the hotel could be a good choice for events.
