STARTER
The LaLee The Cadogan LONDON
Words: Matt Turner Photography: © Thomas Alexander
IN A BITE Owner: Cadogan Estates Operator: Belmond Interior Design: Russell Sage Studio F&B Consultant: Gorgeous Group Art Consultant: Artefact Main Contractor: Beck Executive Chef: Chris Hill F&B Manager: Domenico Pizzo Head Bartender: Andrea Taiuti Head Sommelier: Leonardo Barlondi www.thelalee.co.uk
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C
helsea institution The Cadogan, now
Sole are all artfully assembled at the table in the
operated as a Belmond hotel, has
traditional manner with added theatrical élan.
long been associated with London’s
Similarly each of the 15 signature cocktails
theatreland, most famously in John Betjeman’s
takes influence from a European city frequented
poem ‘The Arrest of Oscar Wilde at the Cadogan
by Langtry and her bohemian friends, with
Hotel’. So it’s entirely appropriate that dramatic
a highlight being the Mimosa al Garibaldi,
tableside service is at the heart of its new
a floral combination of Italy’s most iconic
restaurant The LaLee, which takes both its
drinks blending prosecco, Campari and Italicus
name and inspiration from Chelsea socialite
Rosolio di Bergamotto. The wine list meanwhile
and actress Lillie Langtry. And her spirit still
includes an iconic Gevrey-Chambertin – one of
pervades the glamorous Art Deco interiors of
only nine Grand Crus of its kind in Burgundy –
this latest addition to the hotel, comprising an
and a single vineyard Barolo from Piedmonte.
all-day street-facing café and gilded dining
There’s also a bespoke English sparkling wine
room with plush leather seating, intricately
created exclusively for the hotel by Sussex-
designed cornicing and floral motifs.
based Rathfinny Wine Estate.
Executive Chef Chris Hill has taken his cue
“Lillie Langtry would entertain the brightest
for the menu from Langtry’s European travels.
stars of society, including the Prince of Wales,
The roll call of classic dishes traverses the
at 21 Pont Street – her elegant townhouse that
continent, from the Lobster Bisque of France’s
became part of The Cadogan,” says Xavier
West coast via Parisian bistro favourites such
Lablaude, General Manager. “Now, The LaLee
as Steak Frites and Croque Monsieur, to Italian
brings Langtry’s spirit back to life, paying
highlights such as Aubergine Parmigiana and
homage to the cuisine she adored during her
Tiramisu. Beef Tartare, Caesar Salad and Dover
epic travels.”
