Matthew Steeples reviews Hotel Rafayel on London’s ‘Left Bank’
Businessman Iqbal Latif is a gent and a scholar and the hotel he built, Rafayel on the Left Bank, truly reflects his character, style and passion for life. Situated within an eco-friendly 17-storey tower adjoining Battersea’s heliport, this 65-room and suite property as well as apartments, meeting rooms, a busy restaurant and a popular spa.
Unlike the many chain hotels along the river, Rafayel is a family affair and this shines through both in terms of the superb service provided by Mr Latif’s longstanding staff and the quality of both the food, drink and accommodation. Whilst the hotel’s rooms – which start at just £139 per night – are spacious, modern and thoughtfully designed, it was one of the newly added suites that I tried on my recent visit. Of up to 550 square foot in size and as close to the ever changing Thames as you could possibly get, the bathrooms – complete with Jacuzzi baths and body-spray showers – alone would satisfy even Donald Trump given how vast they truly are. Offered at prices up to £369 per night, these suites feature king sized beds, 55” televisions and ample seating areas also.
Located on the ground floor of the hotel is the Banyan on the Thames restaurant and bar. Offering an international menu at reasonable prices and featuring the finest ingredients, signature dishes here number Scotch fillet steak and grilled Maine lobster tail whilst a chicken tikka masala has always delighted on previous visits. Wines start at £19.50 per bottle for a Sangiovese or a Trebianno and champagne ranges in price between £50 and £250 per bottle.
Hotel Rafayel offers a courtesy shuttle to Clapham Junction for guests and parking is available for resident guests also. Be sure to book – it’s deservedly popular.
Hotel Rafayel on the Left Bank, 34 Lombard Road, London, SW11 3RF. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 7801 3600.
Subscribe to our free once daily email newsletter here: