My 5-Star Breakfast Journey Across London’s Finest Hotels
What’s better than breakfast? Breakfast in a 5-star hotel, of course! I’m on a mission to visit five of the finest hotels, each with its own unique spin on the most important meal of the day. From elegant dining rooms with city views to rooftop terraces and grand foyers, each breakfast promises a taste of luxury and a side of indulgence. Will there be eggs royale? Freshly baked pastries? Maybe even a surprise or two? Join me as I dive fork-first into the world of 5-star breakfasts, where every bite is a little slice of morning bliss.
Rosewood London
Breakfast at the Rosewood in London is an experience in elegance, especially in the aptly named Mirror Room. This space is part art installation, part luxurious lounge, with a mesmerizing mirrored ceiling that creates a kaleidoscope of lights and reflections, giving the entire room a jewel-like glow. It feels like dining inside a piece of art, where every detail has been crafted for that perfect blend of luxury and charm.
The interior is a dream: plush yellow Chesterfield sofas, cozy armchairs, and sleek tables are arranged thoughtfully to create an atmosphere that’s both intimate and sophisticated. Dark columns give a classic touch, while greenery and warm lighting add to the room's inviting feel. There’s something about this place that makes you feel a little fancier just sitting there.
The scrambled eggs with smoked salmon flakes, paired with two potato röstis, is a treat in itself. The röstis are golden and crispy on the outside, with a fluffy, almost melt-in-your-mouth texture. It's not every day that potatoes become a highlight, but here, they do. At £19, it’s a bit of a splurge, but isn’t that what solo breakfasts at 5-star hotels are for?
NoMad London
This breakfast room exudes elegance with a serene yet lush ambiance. The decor is refined and sophisticated, with soft green velvet seating adorned with plump cushions that invite comfort. Marble-topped tables set with simple, chic glassware and candlelight add a cozy, intimate touch. The room’s design incorporates plenty of greenery, creating a fresh, almost garden-like atmosphere amidst an urban setting. High, ornate lantern-style lights hang from the ceiling, casting a warm, ambient glow over the space. The walls feature intricate tilework, and the high ceiling and pillars contribute to a grand, open feel. This space is perfect for a luxurious, unhurried breakfast, enveloped in an oasis of style and calm.
Starting with the star of the show: the egg sandwich. Now, I don’t know if you’re an egg sandwich fan, but this one is on another level. Picture a perfectly cooked egg, nestled with either some zingy horseradish sauce or melty cheese (let’s just say, I didn’t look back). And if you’re a pancake person, brace yourself – these were stacked and loaded with blueberries so plump they practically bounced. It was a big portion, too, so come hungry.
But here’s where I knew NoMad and I were on the same wavelength: they had oat milk ready for my cappuccino. Big win. How many times do you get a fancy place that actually remembers the dairy-free crowd?
Breakfast is served daily from 7 am to 10:30 am – ideal if you’re like me and enjoy lingering over that last bite, just soaking it all in.
One Aldwych
The breakfast room at One Aldwych has an elegant and modern feel, with a color scheme that combines deep blues, soft grays, and warm wood accents. The seating includes plush leather booths and comfortable chairs, providing a cozy yet refined atmosphere. Tables are adorned with small floral arrangements in stylish vases, adding a touch of freshness and charm.
The room is well-lit, thanks to soft overhead lighting and strategically placed lamps, creating a warm ambiance. The carpet has a subtle striped pattern that adds texture to the space without overwhelming it. Large, dark wood partitions with decorative panels give the room a sense of structure and sophistication. The overall vibe is understated luxury, making it perfect for a relaxed yet upscale breakfast experience. And yes, every single dish is dairy and gluten-free, so if you’ve got dietary restrictions, you’re covered here. Even my usual taste preferences were impressed! The service was top-notch – attentive yet friendly, like they’re genuinely happy you’re there. No one’s rushing you out the door, so feel free to savor every bite (and maybe a second cup of coffee). Breakfast here is from 7 to 11 am, perfect if you like a slow, relaxed morning.
I went for the vegetarian breakfast, and it was a feast: my choice of eggs, creamy avocado, sautéed spinach, mushrooms, tomato, and a veggie sausage that was surprisingly flavorful. Add in the usual coffee or tea, and you’ve got a spread that feels anything but restrictive.
Me London
The rooftop breakfast interior at ME London is vibrant and inviting, blending modern elegance with a touch of natural charm. The space is filled with light, thanks to large windows that showcase panoramic views of London’s skyline. Soft yellow and neutral tones dominate the seating, with plush, patterned chairs and benches that add both comfort and style.
The decor includes unique design elements like a dried floral arrangement suspended above the bar, adding a burst of color and texture that brings a natural, earthy vibe to the sophisticated setting. The tables are simple yet stylish, set with minimalist glassware and small decorative touches. The ceiling features an artistic, wavy texture, enhancing the room's airy and contemporary feel.
The breakfast here is a mix of continental delights and made-to-order classics. For the continental spread, there’s everything from cold meats and smoked salmon to freshly baked croissants that practically melt in your mouth. And if you’re in the mood for something hot, you’re in luck – they let you order from a menu featuring the classics like a full English breakfast, eggs royale, and avocado toast with poached eggs. I mean, who doesn’t love options?
The Savoy
This breakfast room boasts a sleek, contemporary design with a touch of art deco elegance. The space is anchored by circular lighting fixtures on the ceiling that provide a soft, warm glow, adding a modern twist to the luxurious ambiance. Large indoor plants bring a fresh, natural vibe, balancing the refined decor with a touch of greenery.
The room features plush seating in soft, neutral tones, with comfortable armchairs and elegant tables arranged to create intimate dining spaces. The floor has a unique patterned carpet, adding texture and visual interest, while a section of glossy, scalloped tiles near the bar area introduces an artful, eye-catching detail.
Mirrors and metallic accents throughout enhance the sense of spaciousness and light, giving the room a polished, glamorous feel.
Currently, the Thames Foyer is under renovation and will reopen as the Savoy Lounge soon, but in the meantime, breakfast is served at The River Restaurant by Gordon Ramsay – and it doesn’t disappoint.
The breakfast menu here feels like a lineup of the classics done right. From eggs Benedict to blueberry pancakes and even homemade granola, there’s something to suit every morning craving. I opted for the "Savoy Breakfast" and was presented with a spread fit for, well, royalty. Freshly squeezed juices, perfectly brewed coffee, and a bakery basket filled with freshly baked Savoy pastries (yes, they have their own pastries – fancy, right?).
For anyone who loves the classics, this breakfast nails it. The full English here includes two free-range eggs (you can have them scrambled, fried, or poached), smoky bacon, juicy Isle of Wight tomatoes, Cumberland sausage, baked beans, confit Portobello mushroom, and even a slice of Stornoway black pudding. They don’t hold back – it's the kind of breakfast that could keep you going all day.
And let’s talk about the setting. With the renovations going on, the River Restaurant offers a vibrant, elegant ambiance with just the right amount of sophistication. It’s the type of place where you feel like lingering over every sip of tea, wondering if you should indulge in just one more pastry. If you’re ever in London and want a taste of timeless luxury to kickstart your morning, The Savoy’s breakfast is a must-try.
