Absolutely London visits 1665, the new restaurant at The Mitre, Hampton Court
By Isabella Eckett
Review: 1665 at The Mitre
Officially welcoming guests from this September, The Mitre is one of the hottest new openings post lockdown. Sitting proudly on the banks of the River Thames opposite Hampton Court, it’s set to be a new favourite neighbourhood hang-out.
The 36-bedroom boutique hotel is the first to be unveiled from the new The Signet Collection. Founded by Hector Ross, mastermind behind the much loved Beaverbrook and Bel & The Dragon, it was always destined to wow. There’s two restaurants to choose from, Coppernose and 1665 (a nod to the year the hotel was built).
Food is at the heart of the hotel, and the jewel in The Mitre’s crown is no doubt Culinary & Operations Director Ronnie Kimbugwe, a foodie extraordinaire with a clear culinary vision. For Ronnie it’s all about creating the right vibe to attract local Londoners time and time again by offering innovative dishes at affordable prices. Ronnie’s carefully curated menus are sure to tickle everyone’s taste buds, from light salad to sharing platters or afternoon tea, they’ve got it covered. He uses the best seasonal British produce and champions sustainability.
Interiors genius Nicola Harding is the creative lead behind transformation of the hotel. There’s a real sense of laid back luxury, with quirky British charm shining though. The 1665 restaurant has a cosmopolitan vibe. The decor is elegant yet super relaxed thanks to the cushioned booths, French Grey panelled walls and river views.
On arrival the friendly team will ensure you immediately feel at home. We kicked off with refreshing cocktails – I went for the Signet Spritz made with lemon drizzle gin, grapefruit and fizz – accompanied by mouth-wateringly delicious bar nibbles. Try the spiced crispy cauliflower popcorn, pink peppercorn tempura squid and exceptionally pretty crudites garnished with wild flowers. All so tasty, we ordered a second round.
For our first course, a modern twist on the classic prawn cocktail did not disappoint with the addition of generous Atlantic lobster claws and Sriracha. The freshly picked crab toastie is a fun choice and the delicately battered squid with fresh chilli and spring onions is equally tasty.
A ribeye steak is always a good benchmark of how a restaurant’s food is. Served for two and cooked to perfection with all the trimmings, it was superb. The lobster and prawn linguine was full of fresh flavours, garnished with peppery rocket. For spice lovers, the Goan prawn and seafood curry is a must-try, served in a petite copper pan at the table adding to the dining magic.
A true menu highlight has to be the bombolini, warm Italian donuts oozing with Nutella, so indulgent but worth every calorie of deliciousness.
The hotel boasts a large riverside terrace, home to the first Whispering Angel Boathouse, sure to be a real hit with Rosé lovers. Plus there’s a light-flooded orangery, clad with terracotta walls and plenty of luscious greenery, for private events and parties.
Hampton Court Road, KT8 9BN; mitrehamptoncourt.com
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