Tucked away in a place called Knightsbridge, you will be forgiven for passing this building by and not giving it the attention it deserves. It stands bold, understated but curiously suspect! Don't let this frighten you because this is the moment to put your curiosity at play and trust me, you will not be disappointed! On arrival the well suited maitre d was polite and led us to the II bar upon request! The prominent presence of the bar area was an instant wow factor. It meshed well with the comfortable seating area and the backdrop of the soft wooden walls increased the attractiveness of this setting. I settled for an earl grey tea and the service was impeccable. The waiters were helpful without being intrusive filling up my empty cup at any notice. Since the surroundings was so relaxing even though a mixture of different songs blasted in the background,our conversation flowed through the evening and midnight almost caught up with us without warning! This was a sign that a good time was had by the GAL'pals! Bulgari is indeed a gem, pay it a visit, you won't be disappointed. 8/10 Peony Blue
Upon entering the Bulgari Bar I was greeted by deep gleam. Mr Sheen had definitely been in the house.The tall mahogany wood panels that walled the room shone, the floors quietly shone. I felt that I had walked in to the bottom layer of a 95% cacao box of chocolates.
Virtually at the entrance similar to an opulent bath tub stood the bar. It resembled a mighty vessel stocked with all kinds of distillations to help one set sail.
The waiting staff were great, with beaming smiles and happy hello's they were eager to please. Nibbles and olives were set on the table.
Arriving early I ordered a medium spicy Bloody Mary with Tabasco on the side.
Whilst waiting for my fellow gal pals one thing that caught me by surprise was the quality or lack thereof re the upholstery. I just expected more lush fabric. However the fact that they had not crammed the space with tables was a definite plus.
After adding a dash or two more of hot sauce to my tomato based beverage I looked forward to the evening ahead.
From the very limited menu I ordered dinner. I chose the fish fingers which were very tasty but very expensive.
Some vegetable options would have been most welcome.
The musical back drop was very diverse and got my head nodding. Actual songs instead of club thumping anthems.
Before we knew it 23.30 had dawned and it was time to leave.
I would definitely return to the Bulgari. I enjoyed its spaciousness and the fact that it wasn't noisy and teeming with people.
7/10 Stargazer.
Knightsbridge. Synonymous with Harrods, Harvey Nicks and obscene expensive apartments but here is another, Bulgari Hotel and the II Bar.
Mention Bulgari and jewellery immediately comes to mind. I could not help but expect over the top glitz, too much show, too much glamour, just too much but I was pleasantly surprised. Just like the weather which had been unpredictable earlier with forecast of showers, it turned out balmy and enjoyable.
Bulgari was clearly signposted and the chilled young top hat and tails was preoccupied outside the doorway. Not that it mattered.
Inside we were enthusiastically greeted by the maître d in the spacious foyer.
The aroma of what smelled like scented candles to my sensitive nose did not go unnoticed, maybe this was part of the ambience. I have to admit I was not expecting such dramatic decor, black tiled floor, swivel black chairs, sprinkled with comfy sofas and the the bar as the centrepiece.
It was very informal in a classic sort of way just like the staff. Smartly dressed in dark tops and apron-like bottoms with their ready to wear natural smiles.
No need to be ushered to our seats as Stargazer was already seated comfortably waiting for us. The nibbles were tasty, mini bread sticks, pecan and cashew nuts and olives. Apricot juice was what I ordered and I was pleased with the very large heavy glass it came in. It was followed by the Crème brûlée, something I had not tasted for a very long time. It was not in the usual deep ramekins but in a large shallow platter.
The background music was hardly background but was very eclectic.
Stealers Wheel (Reservoir Dogs soundtrack), Big band swing, and good old Grace Jones with Sting added to the mix.
Yes it was expensive but it we were in Knightsbridge land but don't let that put you off.
It was worth it. 7/10 Monique
