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Date and Time: Wednesday, June 4, 2025, 7:40 PM
Article Topic: Martin Williams’ favorite places to “Toast the City” (City AM‘s inaugural hospitality awards).
Key Locations Mentioned:
The Three compasses (tavern)
Bouchon Racine (restaurant above The Three Compasses)
Red Lion and Sun (pub in Highgate – outside the “City” area)
bluebird Club (South Place Hotel and Chelsea)
The Ned
City of London Club
Ten Trinity
Awards: “Toast the City” – City AM’s hospitality awards for the Square Mile.
Author: Martin Williams
Main Points:
Nominations are open for the “Toast the City” awards.
Williams provides his favorite places in the City for inspiration.
He highlights Bouchon Racine and The Three Compasses as a great combination.
He mentions the Bluebird Club launch and the importance of a good membership base.
Call to Action: The article encourages readers to nominate their favorite places for the “Toast the City” awards.
* Link to Awards:
Toast of the Town: Exploring the City’s Hottest Hospitality spots with Industry Expert, Dr. Anya Sharma
Time.news: Welcome back to Time.news! Tonight, we’re diving into the vibrant world of City AM’s inaugural “Toast the City” hospitality awards. Nominations are now open, and to help you navigate the Square Mile’s best and brightest, we’re joined by Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading expert in hospitality and urban culture. Dr. Sharma, thanks for being with us.
Dr. Sharma: It’s a pleasure to be here.
Time.news: Dr.Sharma, Martin Williams, a champion of london’s culinary scene, recently shared some of his favorite haunts in City AM, ahead of the awards. He listed places like The Three Compasses, Bouchon Racine, The Ned and Ten Trinity – classic and contemporary options alike. does this list represent a wider trend you’re seeing in the City of London hospitality scene?
Dr.Sharma: Absolutely. Williams’ selection illustrates the fascinating duality within the London hospitality industry. You have historic pubs like The Three Compasses, offering that conventional, cozy experience, alongside complex venues like The Ned and Ten Trinity Square, which cater to a more premium clientele focused on modern luxury. He also includes the City of London Club which is an established institution for many professionals working in the Square mile. This mix of legacy and innovation keeps the scene dynamic and exciting.
Time.news: He specifically mentions Bouchon Racine above The Three Compasses, highlighting them as a fantastic pairing. What does this tell us about the evolving dining trends in London?
Dr. Sharma: The Bouchon Racine/The Three Compasses pairing is brilliant. It epitomizes the desire for layered experiences. You can start with a traditional pint in a proper pub atmosphere and then ascend to a beautifully rendered French bistro. It’s flexibility. People appreciate the ability to tailor their evening to their mood,and locations that offer this appeal to a broader range of preferences. This is a key factor for hospitality award contenders.
Time.news: williams also mentions his fondness for the Red lion and Sun, a pub in Highgate. Even though it’s outside the “City” area, it highlights the importance of a location like that to him.What’s your take on establishments offering this mix of location?
Dr.Sharma: It’s a reminder that great hospitality transcends geographical boundaries. While “toast the City” is focused on the Square Mile, recognizing excellence wherever it exists sets a high bar for everyone. A pub like the Red Lion and Sun, known for its excellent service, quality offerings and community feel, serves as an inspiration. It makes the consumer think about what factors really matter, especially after leaving work in the square mile: quality, service, ambience.
Time.news: He also touches on the launch of the Bluebird Club, emphasizing the importance of a good membership base. This speaks to the exclusive hospitality trend we’ve been seeing. Why is membership so critical for these establishments?
Dr. Sharma: A strong membership base provides a degree of stability and predictability for the business. It fosters a sense of community and loyalty, which leads to repeat customers and positive word-of-mouth referrals. For exclusive clubs like the Bluebird Club, membership is also about curating a particular atmosphere and attracting a specific demographic. That sense of shared identity is a powerful draw.
Time.news: So, for our readers thinking about nominating their favorite places for “Toast the city,” what advice would you offer? What makes a truly award-winning hospitality experience?
Dr. Sharma: Think beyond just the food or drinks. Consider the entire experience. Was the service remarkable? Did the atmosphere make you feel welcome and comfortable? Did the venue offer something unique or memorable? Look for places that demonstrate a commitment to quality, innovation, and creating a genuine connection with their guests. Remember the places that have a positive impact on the community and provide an escape from the stresses of daily life.
Time.news: Excellent advice! Dr. Sharma, thank you so much for sharing your insights with us.It’s been incredibly informative. And for our viewers, don’t forget to nominate your favorite City of London restaurants, pubs, bars and hotels for the “Toast the City” awards at https://www.cityamevents.co.uk/toast-awards. Let’s celebrate the best of the best!
