The Royal Lancaster Hotel, rated the best hotel in the UK and fourth best in the world by TripAdvisor, recently received a food hygiene rating of 2 from the Food Standards Agency, citing improvements needed in 'cleanliness and condition'. Despite this, a visit to its Tortello restaurant revealed impeccable standards and a meal that was 'delicious, fresh, but also...small portions'.
A Surprising Low Rating
MyLondon reporter Ayokunle Oluwalana visited the hotel, located next to Lancaster Gate station, to investigate the low rating. Upon entering Tortello, he found the restaurant sparkling, the interiors clean, and the kitchen looking pristine. The low score was due to mouse droppings found in the main kitchens (not Tortello's) and a lack of cleaning of the blades on heavy-duty can openers. Tortello itself passed unscathed.
The presence of mice in a building next to a Tube station and a major park was noted as a persistent challenge, but the hotel has addressed it. Walking through the kitchens with General Manager Sally Beck, Oluwalana saw that the cleanliness issues and the can opener points had been resolved.
A Meal at Tortello
At Tortello, the hostess recommended the Orkney crab tortelli, charcoal pasta, and lemon butter emulsion. The tortelli were bursting with flavour and freshness, with the crab melting in the mouth and the butter complementing perfectly. The charcoal pasta, despite its odd colour, was devoured eagerly. The bruschetta was crunchy with fresh tomatoes on top.
The only gripe was the small portion size, with around five parcels of tortelli on the plate, which the reporter believed was the smaller portion at £14. He stood up feeling satisfied yet still hungry, noting that high-end restaurants may not be for those who prefer a full plate.
Verdict: Don't Be Scared Away
Oluwalana concluded that a 2 in food safety shouldn't scare people away. The restaurant and hotel felt luxurious, and he could see why it was voted number one. The meal was delightful in a stunning location, and he would definitely visit again if given the chance.
