First look: Ennismore’s Hyde London City hotel opens its doors

Ennismore has launched its first Hyde hotel in London’s Farringdon in the form of the 111-room Hyde London City.

Located in the Grade II-listed Spiers & Pond building, which dates back to 1874, the seven-storey hotel takes inspiration from the Victorian era.

Designer Studio Moren has included references to Darwin’s works and the discovery of the kaleidoscope to bring that period to life.

The project was first announced in January 2022, with an initial completion date set for 2023.

Hyde London City’s Headliner Suite is tucked away in the eaves of the building, offering five-metre high ceilings, a private marble-topped bar, and rooftop views of St Paul’s Cathedral.

On the ground floor, chef Selin Kiazim and Halil Simsek serve meze, home-baked pide and Mangal-grilled meats and fish at contemporary Turkish restaurant Leydi.

The all-day diner encourages family-style dining and features dishes such as Islak burger (spiced beef köfte bun in garlic tomato sauce); dayboat seafood fried in semolina crust; and Künefe, a stuffed kadayif pastry.

The drinks list has been curated by mixologist Kevin Patnode and is dominated by raki-based cocktails and Mediterranean wines.

In the evenings, Black Lacquer operates as an underground cocktail bar with an extensive vinyl collection. It also offers cocktails and Tokyo-inspired small plates.

Room rates for Hyde London City start from £230.

Ennismore was founded in 2011 by Sharan Pasricha, who won the International Outstanding Achievement Award at this year’s Cateys.

It entered a joint venture with Accor, which holds a majority shareholding, in 2021.