I know for a fact that at one moment in time, every girl in the UK has a Pinterest mood board saved with Amano’s freestanding, luxurious, gold bathtub in their camera roll. During the lockdown period, I would sit there for hours on end saving hundreds of cute places I wanted to go to once it ended—like a manifestation visualisation technique—and 2023 is all about bringing those dreams into reality.

Manifestation happens by using positive and intentional thinking to draw positive experiences into your life. The more specific you are with your desires, the easier the universe can work its magic in bringing them to fruition. Whether you believe in manifesting or not, it is a fun way to keep track of your bucket lists!

I love Covent Garden; I always have a memorable time here, and Amano is situated right in the hustle and bustle of London in the most glorious of ways. On my way to my staycation, I stopped by and watched the street performers, grabbed a Joe and the Juice on the route, soaked in the sunshine, and had a well-overdue shop in all the independent boutiques. A bonus is that Amano Hotel is only a stone’s throw away from the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, which is currently showing Frozen, if you fancy grabbing a last-minute show!

Amano Hotel

Amano Hotel is in the heart of Covent Garden, surrounded by the best theatres, restaurants, and pubs, full of so much life and character. It has an impressive 141 rooms, each designed with elements of darkness mixed with gold accents, creating a super-luxury feel.

Goldy Room

I screeched when I opened the door to the bathroom. I’ve seen it in photos, but seeing it in real life with the gold from the tub glistening all around the room made it even more special. Minutes after seeing the tub, I was straight in there, indulging in a hot bubble bath whilst soaking in the city views from the tub. What more could you ask for? Dreamy!

Amenities

• Super king-size bed
• Bathroom with golden bathtub
• Shower
• Dermalogica skincare
• Nespresso machine
• Garden view
• Flatscreen TV

Penelope’s Restaurant

This year I wanted to step out of my comfort zone when trying new cuisines. I was told recently how the restaurant Penelope’s was one of the best dinners in Covent Garden, and I wanted to see for myself!

What I Ate

• Stuffed Piquillo Peppers
• Gambas Locas (king prawns)
• Shet Hayam Couscous (monkfish tempura)
• Roast potatoes
• Grilled Hereford sirloin

Penelope’s restaurant offers a rich menu of Israeli-Spanish fusion dishes inspired by Amano’s co-founder, Ariel Schiff. Expect tapas-style sharing dishes such as lamb breast, monkfish tempura, and tiger prawns. When it comes to sharing food, you either love it or hate it. I’m a big fan of tapas-style dining because I love ordering lots of new dishes to try, and I think it’s a great bonding experience. Great food brings people together; there’s nothing better than good food, good company, and good vibes. My evening at Penelope’s had all three.

I shocked the editor Debbie on my last review as I didn’t leave room for dessert, so I made sure this time around I checked the menu before I came to ensure I left room for one! The dessert menu online is called ‘The Last Dance’, which I found endearing. Baklava anything is one of my favourite desserts; I order it every time I see it on the menu. But this year is about expanding my comfort zone and trying new things. So, I ordered the baklava cheesecake. Do I regret it? No, I do not. There is nothing better than pistachio, walnut, and bourbon vanilla ice cream; it was even better than I imagined. ‘If it’s not broken, don’t fix it’ springs to mind. If you ever visit Penelope’s, leave room for the baklava cheesecake. My guest and I were blown away by its deliciousness.

After our feast, we took the lift up to the 7th floor of Amano Hotel to their gorgeous rooftop bar with the most stunning views over London. They have a DJ, cosy blankets, and heaters outside so you can soak in the view whilst enjoying delicious Psichei tequila cocktails.

I would definitely stay here again. Amano has it all! It’s the perfect location for a theatre staycation. Right next door is Penelope’s Restaurant, which serves quality food, and if you want to extend your evening, the rooftop is a great spot for date night! Make sure you add it to your bucket list!

Address: Drury House, 34-43 Russell St, London WC2B 5HA, United Kingdom
Telephone: +44 20 3739 8900
Website: Amano Hotel Covent Garden

Written by Danielle Tobin for Luxuria Lifestyle London and International