Story celebrated the start of Valentine’s Day on the 13th of February at the wonderful Hilton London Metropole. On arrival, we were treated to a delicious “Yours” cocktail which consisted of Highland Park 12, Salted Caramel, Walnut Bitters and Bow Bar Ginger Beer, garnished with a reduced cherry liqueur edible gem!
We were then taken on a journey through the hotel and viewed all of the stunning event spaces. The hotel consists of a total of 5,841 sqm of event space, 35 meeting rooms and 1,100 guest rooms. We were guided through the journey from the East Wing to the West Wing and how it resembled East and West London.
When renovating the hotel, they incorporated little details throughout which included the tube maps on the carpets, and the bar designed as the shape of a bell, a homage to the bells of St Mary-le-Bow (there’s a saying that only those born within ringing of the Bow Bells are true Cockneys!). Moving throughout the East Wing, you are welcomed by Tyburn Market which found its inspiration from Borough Market and is home to the Tyburn Stone, a historic way marker from the 1700’s that has always been located along Edgware Road, signalling the entry into the City of London.
The West Wing is inspired by West London parks with the two large ballrooms named Kensington and Richmond. After the wonderful show round of the hotel, we made our way to the Tyburn Kitchen, where they focus on honest, seasonal, sustainably sourced ingredients. They take a considerate approach to their menus, spending time to build relationships with local suppliers and producers to create a menu where 90% of their ingredients are sourced within 100 miles of the hotel.
We ended the evening off with an exclusive valentines themed tasting menu. The starters consisted of Spiced Beef and Oyster Tartar, Salt Roasted Beetroot and Celeriac and Seared Scallops. The mouth-watering mains were Josper Roasted Beef Fillet with Tiger Prawns, Crispy Fried Cauliflower and Cod Loin. The dessert was perfectly themed for Valentine’s day and was a Chocolate Cheesecake Mousseline and Rasberry Tranche – absolutely heavenly!
Thank you to the incredible team at the Hilton London Metropole, for such a lovely evening!
Keeping with the theme of the valentines the Story team were treated by cupid too…
The Story Social Committee were up to no good as always and secretly decorated the office before everyone arrived. Everyone was treated to delicious Lola’s cupcakes (as they are perfect for catering for all dietaries!) on their desks with a personalised Valentine’s day note. It was a day full of love for everyone, showering positivity and support!
We look forward to seeing what the Story Social Committee get up to next…stay tuned for more!
