We asked Francesco Sardelli what he is most looking forward to as the new General Manager of St. James's Hotel & Club, what insider tips he has for a stay in London and what he particularly likes about the hotel.
Francesco hails orginally from Puglia, Italy and arrived in London back in 1989, commencing his hospitality career at what was then the Grovenor House Hotel. His experience took him to some of London‘s most renowned five star establishments, from the likes of Brown’s Hotel, The Stafford Hotel, Baglioni and most recently he was the GM of The Kensington Hotel which is part of the Doyle Collection. While building his professional career he went to Westminster University where he graduated in Business Studies.
What are you looking forward to in your new position, at the Althoff Hotels and at St. James's?
FS I am thrilled to be part of the Althoff family and to be the General Manager of the St James’s Hotel and Club. The hotel is a beautiful boutique residence in the heart of London, located in the quintessentially British St. James’s quarter, only moments away from the most exclusive shopping areas of Jermyn Street, Bond Street and Regent Street and footsteps away are the tranquil and picturesque green spaces of adjacent Green Park and neighbouring St. James’s Park.
What do you recommend to see or do in London - do you have an insider tip?
FS My favorite place in London is located down on the southern riverbank heading up the Thames, where you will find Battersea Park - a stunning place to walk, relax and unwind. It‘s extremely popular with local residents, and when visiting you will enjoy the view of the city during the day and spectacular view of the Albert Bridge which is dramatically illuminated at night. For the more adventurous ones, you can walk from Battersea all the way downstream to the spectacular Tower of London, following the River Thames path and passing by the most outstanding landmarks that London has to offer such as the iconic Houses of Parlament, London Eye, St. Pauls Cathedral, the City of London and I personally recommend a pitstop at the highly celebrated Tate Gallery or for those more interested in contemporary art, the Tate Modern awaits you.
What do you particularly like about St. James's Hotel & Club and what makes it unique?
FS The hotel has a boutique feeling, each room has its own personality. Our signature suites are elegant and spacious offering outdoor spaces (a rarity in London) with views of the city. Our Michelin starred restaurant Seven Park Place is quite simply the perfect place to come and indulge in a culinary journey of the senses, where your palate will savour a plethora of fine flavours celebrating fine French gastronomy, crafted from the best seasonal ingredients sourced from around the British Isles, and all created by our Executive Chef William Drabble and his expert brigade. These flavours come together in perfect harmony with his highly acclaimed seven course tasting menu with a wine pairing that is simply out of this world. Last but not least, the St James’s Hotel is a perfect hideaway located in a quiet oasis of tranquility, offering discreet access directly into Green Park.
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