If you didn’t already catch my birthday blog, I mentioned that as part of my celebrations and treats, my lovely friend took me to London for a stay at the stunning Nobu Hotel, followed by an indulgent bottomless brunch the next day. It was that special, that it really wouldn’t have done the whole experience justice to just sum it up in one short paragraph, and I’ve been super excited to share all the details on here…
I think most people are familiar with Nobu as a restaurant, they have locations in most major cities, and even if you haven’t been lucky enough to experience the place (I hadn’t until this month), you’re sure to have heard of it one way or another. Cleverly tucked away down an unassuming side street in Shoreditch, stumble upon this architectural marvel and your senses will be instantly transported to an upmarket asian style experience that is unlike anything else on the scene right now.
Luxurious, yet completely unassuming and not at all intimidating the hotel homes 148 slickly designed rooms, a cafe with it’s own matcha bar, and a restaurant and bar. So, food first… As already mentioned, the bottomless brunch was on our agenda, and this was one like no other. In what could easily become an oversaturated market, it’s becoming harder to stand out with the bottomless brunch offerings – let’s face it, it’s the in thing right now, and we’re pretty much spoilt for choice on this front – so to create such a unique experience, is pretty impressive; and Nobu have done just that, and they’ve done it well.
Served every weekend from 12-4pm, you are presented with three price choices: £45 to include a main dish, and unlimited access to the brunch and dessert bars; £55 to include a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, Tinto Rioja or Veuve Clicquot; and £75 to indulge in two hours worth of unlimited Prosecco, Aperol Spritz, Asahi Draft or Lychee Elderflower Martinis. We opted for a glass of Veuve Clicquot. The brunch bar contains a treasure trove of the finest sushi London has to offer, all freshly made in front of you – seriously guys, it’s incredible and you’ll honestly struggle to get through it all. Everything is stunningly presented and the attention to detail with regards to the service is just immaculate.
In all honesty, the brunch bar itself would be enough to appease most, but you’re also given the choice of a generous selection of main dishes too. I opted for the Matcha Waffle with Chicken – highly recommend! – but other choices included the likes of Nobu Eggs Benedict; Truffle Parmesan Rice; Black Cod Den Miso; Beef Ribeye with Anticucho; and Shrimp and Truffle Quinoa Risotto with Poached Egg… and that doesn’t even cover half of the options.
Then, if you have room after all that, it’s time to dig into the dessert bar. Now I am a major sweet lover, and it’s pretty hard to really satisfy me on the dessert front – but on this occasion I was literally spoilt for choice. It seemed Nobu managed to capture all of my favourite things… and then more! Macarons, asian style cheesecakes, the sweetest fruits you could ask for (including my favourite, dragonfruit), chocolate, cookies, compotes, chocolate tartes, brownies – it’s a sweet lovers dream and you really will struggle to try it all.
Now obviously, going on the incredible brunch experience, the hotel was also going to be something super special too… Sights, scents, sounds and atmosphere all work to provide an unparalleled visit that’s not to be forgotten. Simplistic, yet luxurious designs create something truly special. Clean lines, bold, contrasting colours, and hidden treasures at every turn had us wandering around the room in awe for a good thirty minutes.
What was truly evident was the amount of thought, care, and attention to detail that’s put into the guest experience. From the complimentary choice of toiletries, and room comforts, to the evening turndown; including ice cold water on your bedside table – you’ll want for nothing… and hello bathroom goals! I absolutely adored my stay at Nobu, and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to anyone. I keep using the word, but it really was an experience, as oppose to just a stay – and is a lovely memory that I’m so happy to treasure for my big birthday celebration.
Oh, and if anyone was wondering about gift ideas for next year… I’d be happy with the modest gift of a golden sink, Nobu style.
Nobu Hotel Shoreditch: 10-50 Willow St, London EC2A 4BH
