A shorter name and revamped menu doesn’t take away from the fact that this Leela property spells out elegance. A new age Gentlemen’s Club-like bar complete with dark wood interiors, luxurious chairs, precious hardback first edition books and the lingering scent of cigars and brandy — this one’s not for the average bar hopper. The room is dimly lit, but the baubles and bling donned by patrons makes everything sparkle. The cosy environs and soft music lets you unwind even as the pacey conversation and rare whiskeys transport you to another era. The wine displays are made up of hard-to-find corked and uncorked bottles and my favourites remain the Dirk Niepoort vintage ports from 1863 that were uncorked at the hotel by the family in March 2012. Their signature Cigar Smoked Mint Julep goes down smoothly and the Royale with cognac, grand marnier and Champagne is as indulgent as they come. Bar eats are hearty and mostly supplemented by their coffee shop Qube’s kitchen. If there is one place worth going to on a weekend without the burden of loud music or crass company, this is it.
Critic reviews are anonymous and all bills are paid by What#39;s Hot.
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