The 'Last' Word - Charlotte's May Edit
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
From a special presentation to running congratulations, discover what's on Charlotte's mind this month.
"This month, my thoughts have drifted to Turkish flavours, theatrical indulgences and a few well-earned celebrations along the way. From a promising new Fitzrovia opening to a showstopping afternoon tea – and a bit of industry news in between"
A Taste of Turkey in Fitzrovia?
I've always had a soft spot for Turkish food, though it’s been nearly 30 years since I last visited the country. So the arrival of Lokal in the heart of Fitzrovia has quietly caught my attention.
From the team behind Fred Bakery and Faros, the kitchen is led by head chefs Salih Serden and Akcan Agir - bringing their deep knowledge of Turkish culinary heritage to the city.
From what I’ve heard, it leans into regional flavours with a lighter, more contemporary touch, which feels in keeping with how London likes to dine nowadays.
With handmade mezze, vegan and vegetarian dishes and reinterpretations of classics such as Lamb Tandr and Lamb Loin, the menu looks very tempting.
Of course, a cocktail list with a sense of place, only adds to the appeal.
Thank You Golden Keys
I was truly overwhelmed to receive a beautifully-crafted, personalised wooden Certificate of Appreciation at the April meeting of The Society of the Golden Keys.
It was a real surprise and so lovely to be appreciated by such a wonderful organisation.
President Binoy Nair made the presentation, recognising business affiliates who 'consistently contribute their support to The Society'.
Other worthy recipients were:
Darren Winters of Air Courier; Ardian Zabergja of Eagles; Nancy Burrows of Cubitt House and Natalie Browne of Sophie’s Steakhouse.
A Phantom-Inspired Indulgence
There's a new afternoon tea on my must-try list following a visit to the Sofitel London St James.
When he could tear himself away from the latest WHERE London magazine, Assistant Head Concierge Jean-Francois Flori showed me around the Phantom of the Opera Afternoon Tea room.
The special limited edition dining experience is elegantly crafted in three delicious 'acts' masterfully designed by pastry chef Lerrick Coelho to celebrate Andrew Lloyd Webber's iconic production.
CONGRATULATIONS
A Marathon Result for Matteo
A huge congratulations goes to Matteo Delrio who completed the TCS London Marathon last weekend in aid of Hospitality Action, the charity supported by The Society of the Golden Keys.
Matteo completed the 26.2 mile race in 4:23 - and beat his £2,500 fund-raising target.
Matteo said: "I’m thrilled to have officially completed the London Marathon. And even better, thanks to your incredible generosity, I’ve hit my fundraising target for Hospitality Action!
"Training through the winter and a redundancy was a masterclass in discipline, but seeing the industry come together to support such a vital charity made every mile worth it. It turns out that hitting "the wall" at Mile 22 isn't much different from pushing through a busy day at work, you just have to keep moving."
He added: "To everyone who donated or cheered me on, thank you for being the fuel I needed."
Concierge Don't Do Anything By Halves
Ruairi McDowell and Marco Russo completed the London Landmarks Half Marathon to raise money for their own charity causes.
Ruairi, Chief Concierge at Six Senses London, The Whiteley ran in aid of Prostate Cancer UK, while Marco, Assistant Head Concierge at Kimpton Fitzroy London, ran for Coram children's charity, his hotel's chosen charity.
Ruairi said:"It was fantastic weather for Marco and I to run for both our incredible causes. Marco ran for Coram and myself for Prostate Cancer UK; I've lost a couple of people close to me over the years from this so it is a very important charity to me."
He added: "It was a pleasure linking up with another IHG leader to give back where we can."
Ruairi finished: "Thank you for all the incredible donations and great support on the day. If you’re feeling charitable this Sunday, both our amazing causes are listed below."❤️
MOVERS & SHAKERS
Jonathan Moore has been promoted to Assistant Head Concierge at The Peninsula London.
Paolo Pinna has been promoted to Senior Concierge at The Berkeley.
Enrique Martin Avendano has moved from Park Tower Knightsbridge to Sofitel London as Senior Concierge.
Adelino Moreira has moved from The Westminster London to The Derby London City as Head Concierge.
Luca Sannino has moved from Hotel Café Royal to The Ned Hotel as Head Concierge.
Tony Baum has joined The Connaught hotel as Senior Concierge and rejoined The Society.
DON'T FORGET
It's the Annual Trade Show next week - and I'll be there with Rob Way, representing The Tourism Media Group. Please come and say 'Hello' - and maybe share a bit of gossip with me?
When: Tuesday, 5 May, 5pm-9pm
Where: InterContinental London Park Lane, W1J 7QY.
PSST...
Have you got some good news or hot gossip? Drop me an email at charlotte.last@tourismmediagroup.com
