Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/931490
104 / the tasting panel / january/february 2018 After check-in, it's into the elegant elevator and up to the fifth floor. Before going to your room, it's essential to check out the executive lounge—the epicenter of Hotel 41. It's like a fine English club, only better: There's always upscale snacks and copious glasses of Champagne avail- able, and a small freezer holds individually-packaged flavors of Jude's ice cream. There's a comprehensive collection of single malts and other spirits available, and special requests are cheerfully fulfilled by the charming and professional staff spearheaded by the gregarious Chief Steward. On Sundays, an English roast with all the fixings is served. Each morning, a superb breakfast spread is laid out. As you settle into your big leather armchair with your freshly-brewed mug of coffee and plate filled to the brim, you'll believe—rightfully so—that you're in paradise. And then there are the rooms, each done up in chic black and white and offering all the amenities you can imagine. The Conservatory Suite, where we stayed, is on two floors with a sitting room downstairs and the bedroom and large bath above. The ceiling of the bedroom is glass and open to the sky; electronic shades can be drawn instantly to block out the morning light, but nodding off to sleep under the stars is a special experience. The ratio of staff to guests at Hotel 41 is two to one. At any time of the day or night, any reasonable and most unreasonable requests will be ful- filled. Check in here and you may never want to leave the hotel. However, should you wish to venture out, the genial concierge will smoothen your experiences throughout the British capitol. Restaurant reservations, museum schedules, and theatre tickets are yours for the asking. For information, visit 41hotel.com. TRAVEL Hotel 41's lavish lounge is the epicenter of the hotel and resembles a fine English club. "When I go to London, I want to fully experience English culture. I want to eat authentic English food and stay in the best traditional English hotels."