Winston Churchill was someone who famously enjoyed a libation now and then, writes Colette Doyle. When accused of being drunk by a female politician he, somewhat ungallantly it must be said, replied: “Madam, you are ugly. In the morning, I shall be sober.” So youβre in good company at The Churchill Bar & Terrace β literally, in fact, as a specially commissioned life-size bronze statue of this eminent British statesman takes pride of place on the aforementioned terrace.
Alas, when I visited the British weather meant that the terrace was strictly off-limits, so we settled into a snug little spot opposite the open fireplace. Despite the fact the Hyatt is a five-star hotel, the bar doesnβt stand on ceremony and the impression is of being in a comfortable and cosy gentlemenβs club, ideal for unwinding after a hard dayβs work in the City.
Mementoes of Churchillβs life abound: the handsome library features works on topics that would have been of particular interest to this larger-than-life public figure and includes books on art, travel, politics and gardening.
Another homely touch is the doodles of family pets that appear in the elegantly designed menu, which offers an amazing array of cocktails, including the Trafalgar Sour. This homage to the great wartime PM comes in the form of a patriotic combination of Colonel Foxβs London Dry Gin and Gloucestershire greengages with pear liqueurs. Another highly recommended offering is the Rhubarb and Rosehip Bellini, a clever twist on a classic.
To avoid any nasty allegations of inebriation, however, itβs best to soak up the alcohol with a few tasty tidbits β and youβre in luck, as the short-but-sweet bar menu includes such mouthwatering morsels as steak tartare, Loch Fyne smoked salmon and Scotch quail eggs. The bon viveur in Churchill would surely conclude that the appropriation of his name is a fitting tribute indeed.
Hyatt Regency London, 30 Portman Square, London W1H 7BH
020 7486 5800; london.churchill.hyatt.com
