The bustling Baker Street is housing a growing number of establishments paying tribute to its most famous fictional inhabitant – Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes. Nestled in the opulent corners of the Holmes Hotel lies The Culinary Corner at Holmes, a distinctive spot compared to typical hotel dining venues as it stands out as a standalone attraction, rather than just an extension of the hotel itself. Adorned with elegant herringbone floors and a sophisticated range of soft grays, along with gold-highlighted lighting fixtures and occasional greenery, the ambiance exudes a chic, pleasing, and spacious vibe that blends seamlessly with the hotel. The service is notably less formal and the cuisine less intricate than commonly found in hotel eateries, which is a positive aspect.
References to the iconic fictional detective can be observed throughout the eatery, yet they are subtly integrated in a way that prevents The Culinary Corner at Holmes from becoming a clichéd themed restaurant. For instance, the beverage menu showcases ‘Sherlock’s Pipe’, described as a twist on the classic Negroni, but made with Scotch whisky – served in a glass pipe and infused with Applewood smoke that complements the bitter tones of Campari and smoked Vermouth.
The diverse menu draws inspiration from seasonal produce and the global travels of Head Chef Stefano Motta, using fresh, top-quality ingredients from reliable sources. The extensive culinary selection is categorized based on the origins of the dishes. Sections include ‘From the Field and Dairy’, ‘From the Sea’, and ‘From the Land’. While browsing the menu, my partner and I relished soft strips of Jerusalem pita paired with a rich blend of tahini, crushed roasted tomatoes, and extra virgin olive oil. Embracing the recommended ‘sharing style’ by the welcoming maitre d’, we savored the charcoal-roasted cauliflower salad, zucchini spaghetti, and sweet potato and kale salad, all dressed with a harmoniously balanced vinaigrette. Moving to the seafood offerings, we delighted in the red prawn carpaccio lightly drizzled with olive oil, accompanied by hints of Amalfi lemon and delicate piles of Oscietra caviar. The cod, served with piquillo peppers, almonds, and capers, proved to be outstanding: fresh from the market and excellently enhanced by the zesty peppers.
As a side dish, the tenderstem broccoli was stir-fried with generous amounts of chili, ginger, and garlic. To conclude, dessert enthusiasts will rejoice in the delectable selection of ‘Treats’ featured in the dessert menu. Opting for the most extravagant choice – white chocolate and lemon panna cotta with kumquat and sesame seed crumble – turned out to be a delightful and utterly delicious option, despite its unusual-sounding combination.
The Culinary Corner at Holmes is a rare gem: a hotel dining establishment that truly surpasses all expectations and challenges any preconceived notions about ‘hotel dining’. It’s a destination worth experiencing.
The Culinary Corner at Holmes, 108 Baker Street, London, W1U 6LJ.
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