I’m thrilled to sit down with Katarina Railko, our esteemed hospitality expert, whose extensive background in travel and tourism, paired with her influential voice in entertainment and events, makes her the perfect guide to explore the exciting culinary world of luxury hotels. Today, we’re diving into the much-anticipated debut of The Chancery Rosewood’s new dining and bar concepts in London. From Mediterranean-inspired cuisine to innovative dessert salons and breathtaking rooftop experiences, Katarina will share her insights on what makes this line-up a standout in the city’s fine dining scene, how each venue carves out its own identity, and the creative forces behind these unique spaces.
Can you paint a picture of what The Chancery Rosewood is bringing to the table with its five new culinary venues opening this September?
I’m delighted to talk about this incredible launch. The Chancery Rosewood, housed in the iconic former U.S. Embassy at Grosvenor Square, is rolling out a collection of restaurants and bars that are as diverse as they are sophisticated. Each of the five venues—Serra, Jacqueline, Tobi Masa, Eagle Bar, and GSQ—has a distinct personality, driven by world-class talent and a deep commitment to quality ingredients and a sense of place. What sets this apart in London’s competitive dining landscape is the attention to detail and the way they’ve woven storytelling and cultural influences into every experience, making it a true destination for food lovers.
How does the hotel’s historic location at Grosvenor Square shape the atmosphere or concepts of these dining spaces?
The location is absolutely integral to the vibe. Being in a Grade II-listed building that once served as the U.S. Embassy brings a sense of gravitas and history to the property. It’s not just about dining; it’s about stepping into a space that feels layered with stories. The design and concepts reflect this—there’s a blend of timeless elegance with modern flair. For instance, the grandeur of the building complements the refined minimalism of Tobi Masa, while the centrality in Mayfair makes GSQ feel like a natural neighborhood hub. It’s a unique canvas that elevates each venue’s identity.
Let’s dive into Serra. What embodies the Southern Mediterranean spirit in its menu and overall approach?
Serra captures the warmth and generosity of Southern Mediterranean culture, drawing inspiration from places like southern Italy and Greece. It’s all about simplicity and seasonality—think sun-kissed flavors, bold yet unpretentious dishes, and a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can expect ingredient-driven cuisine with items like fresh crudo prepared right at the counter and warm flatbreads straight from the oven. It’s a space that encourages sharing and connection, mirroring the hospitality of those coastal regions.
Speaking of Jacqueline, can you elaborate on the innovative ‘Flower Collection’ and the concept of translating scent into flavor?
Jacqueline is a fascinating dessert salon that pushes boundaries with its creativity. The ‘Flower Collection’ is a signature offering where pastries are inspired by individual blooms, using perfumery techniques to capture the essence of a flower’s scent as a flavor. It’s a deeply sensory experience—imagine tasting something that evokes the delicate aroma of a rose or lavender. This approach transforms dessert into an art form, blending seasonality with sculptural precision, and it’s unlike anything else you’ll find in a traditional tearoom.
Tobi Masa brings a legendary name in Japanese cuisine to London. What makes Chef Masa’s philosophy stand out in this new venue?
Chef Masa is a titan in the world of Japanese cuisine, known for his precision and minimalism, and Tobi Masa is a beautiful extension of that legacy. His approach is all about letting the ingredients speak for themselves—there’s an almost reverent focus on quality and simplicity. At The Chancery Rosewood, this philosophy merges with the hotel’s sophisticated ambiance, creating a dining experience that feels both intimate and elevated. For anyone new to his work, expect a masterclass in sushi and Japanese flavors, where every bite feels meticulously crafted.
Eagle Bar sounds like a must-visit rooftop spot. How does its design and programming elevate the typical bar experience?
Eagle Bar is a gem perched above Grosvenor Square, offering some of the most stunning panoramic views of London. The wrap-around terrace alone makes it a standout for sundowners, but what really elevates it is the thoughtful curation. The cocktail menu, overseen by Liana Oster, strikes a balance between bold flavors and storytelling—each drink feels like a narrative. Add to that a music program by a vinyl-first East London collective, and you’ve got an electric, late-night energy that transforms a simple drink into a full sensory escape.
GSQ is positioned as Mayfair’s neighborhood delicatessen. What kind of community experience is it aiming to foster?
GSQ is all about accessibility and connection, which is refreshing in a luxury setting like Mayfair. Open from morning to night, it’s designed to be a go-to spot for both locals and visitors, whether you’re grabbing a coffee and pastry at 8 a.m. or a seasonal salad for lunch. The menu evolves throughout the day to meet different needs, and with a retail pantry and takeaway options, it feels like a true neighborhood hub. It’s a place that prioritizes ease and quality, fostering a sense of belonging in an upscale environment.
With such diverse offerings, how does The Chancery Rosewood ensure each venue maintains a unique identity while still feeling cohesive under one roof?
That’s one of the most impressive aspects of this project. Each venue has been carefully crafted with its own story, aesthetic, and culinary focus—Serra’s rustic warmth contrasts with Tobi Masa’s sleek precision, while Jacqueline’s whimsy differs from Eagle Bar’s vibrant energy. Yet, there’s a unifying thread of excellence and attention to detail that ties them to The Chancery Rosewood’s overarching vision. It’s in the commitment to world-class talent, the reverence for ingredients, and the way each space reflects a piece of the hotel’s historic and cultural context. They’ve managed to create a portfolio of experiences that feel distinct yet harmonious.
Looking ahead, what is your forecast for how these new venues will influence London’s culinary and hospitality scene?
I think The Chancery Rosewood is setting a new benchmark for what a luxury hotel dining experience can be in London. These venues aren’t just restaurants or bars; they’re destinations that blend global influences with local relevance. We’re likely to see a ripple effect—other establishments may take note of how they’ve balanced innovation with accessibility, especially with something like GSQ. Additionally, the emphasis on sensory storytelling, whether through Jacqueline’s desserts or Eagle Bar’s cocktails, could inspire a wave of more immersive dining concepts. London’s scene is already dynamic, but this launch will undoubtedly raise the bar for creativity and guest experience.
