The Capital

From the welcoming foyer winter fire to the hotel's understated elegance, The Capital is bound to impress. Secreted away in the heart of Knightsbridge - on a quiet street just around the corner from Harrods and Harvey Nichols - this discreet, luxury boutique hotel thoroughly lives up to its name. Its stylish, new-look restaurant is a sophisticated, light and airy affair, delivering a suave but understated look inspired by the 1940s, while the adjoining cocktail bar has a Harry's Bar vibe. Lightwood panelling is partnered by cool, pale-blue velvet upholstered chairs, drapes and blinds in the intimate dining room, while contemporary styled chandeliers hang from high ceilings. Artwork by Dalí and sculpture by Henry Moore further enhance the elegance and chic, but add crisp white napery, highly professional table service, a serious wine list and inspired cooking from a formidably talented kitchen, and you have premier-league status. Chef Eric Chavot's cuisine comes close to perfection, sophisticated and utilising the finest-quality ingredients and plenty of luxury. Though his roots are firmly entrenched in the French classical style (inspired by France's South West region), there's nothing staid or straight-laced here, instead a wonderful light, modern approach that comes dotted with some surprise elements. Refinement, balance and high skill reign supreme, with dishes delivered dressed to thrill and flavours clear and pronounced. Take a fillet of sea bass with crushed potatoes and aïoli dressing, or perhaps a saddle of rabbit provençale served with seared calamari and tomato risotto, while a chestnut sponge with matcha tea foam and passionfruit cream might catch the eye at dessert. Superbly made in-house breads, amuse-bouche, pre-dessert and petits fours hold style through to the end, while an excellent-value lunch bolsters the enticing carte and Menu Dégustation.

Off Sloane St, beside Harrods
Nearest station: Knightsbridge

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