The Stafford's refurbished American bar to reopen next week

The Stafford hotel in London is to reopen its renowned American bar following a refurbishment.

The cocktail bar has been revitalised by Rosendale Design, with a new marble bar complete with mahogany panelling, emerald green upholstery, vintage glassware and brass fittings.

Meanwhile, culinary director Ben Tish has introduced a new menu showcasing Mediterranean flavours and there is a new cocktail list, designed by bar manager Benoit Provost and inspired by the local St James's area.

The photographs signed by the hotel's famous patrons and a collection of artefacts donated by guests over the years will remain in place.

New cocktails will include the Godolphin, inspired by nobleman and philanthropist Francis Godolphin, who died in the house that stood on the site of the Stafford's Carriage House. It mixes Woodford Reserve, red wine infused with berries and cinnamon, lemon juice and egg white.

Also on the list, the QM combines Tanqueray No. Ten, Brillet pear liqueur, Bénédictine and Dubonnet, supposedly the favourite tipple of Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother who was known to frequent the American Bar.

Typical dishes on Tish's menu will include snacks such as spring pea croquettes with spring pea aioli, and chorizo and piquillo skewers with marjoram.

From a selection of small plates and larger sharing dishes, there will be: slow-cooked octopus with chickpeas, fennel and cumin; burrata with spiced roasted cauliflower, lemon oil and flatbread; and chicken Milanese with borlotti, anchovies, summer savoury and salsa verde.

Stuart Procter, general manager of the Stafford, said: "The American bar is an integral part of our hotel's identity, and we are very excited to tell this next chapter in its colourful history.

"Even with the changes to the menus and space, our beautiful bar will still keep its identity; it's an evolution not a revolution."

Stuart Procter returns to the Stafford London >>

Ben Tish to join the Stafford London to oversee new restaurant projects >>

Stuart Procter returns to the Stafford London >>