Hotel Verta on the Thames waterfront in Battersea was built in 2010 as part of the regeneration of a rather forgotten corner of London. The hotel, which unashamedly declares it is for the elite, is bang next door to London's only heliport and part of what has been dubbed 'London's Vertical Gateway'.
I had some difficulty finding the hotel (few cab drivers seem to know where it is yet), but was immediately soothed by the restful interior that is decidedly modern but featuring rich pickings related to the area’s heritage. I loved the decidedly decadent suite but I have to say I didn't spend too much time in my room – I was just too busy eating.
Although I did begin my visit to the spa where I was looked after by the lovely Leila and sipped ginseng flower tea complete with petals. I normally resist a facial, but I went for the 'signature sweet option' which was superb and as relaxing as a massage. Unusually, I was given lots of tips to take home, with foundation and toner recommendations and a bagful of goodies for me and my husband.
I would go as far as to say the eating experience here is outstanding. I say eating experience, because it is not just the food that is enjoyable, but the atmosphere of the restaurant, the service (which is charming yet relaxed) and very importantly – the choice of food.
My husband and I began at the cocktail bar which is just as a cocktail bar should be – restful, civilised but with a lovely buzz and of course serving perfect cocktails – which they were. I went for an 'Aviation' cocktail – Aviation gin, maraschino and lemon juice, although I was tempted by a 'Bramble' and tucked into wasabi nuts and olives. My husband went for a daiquiri – the classic, not the 'lady's version' he pointed out. He then went on to declare the dry martini – the cocktail by which all cocktail bars are judged – as 'faultless'.
The service was absolutely charming and very on the ball – a surprisingly rare combination, particularly in London hotels. I liked the 'lounge dining' - an all day menu and a really good one: concise, with just ten options, and all perfectly chosen. It was just the right mix of rustic and sophisticated, with dishes such as cep risotto and oak smoked salmon and soda bread. Then I saw the Jet Fuel menu (named after the heliport, my husband informed me) which is also all day (11.30am–11pm), offering mouthwatering oysters with tabasco and shallots, spiced jhinga prawns and chorizo hot dog. Oh, and they also offer afternoon tea from a very civilised 2.30pm to 6pm.
The restaurant is big but not too big and the menu very assured, with something for everyone whilst having a real focus. I like a menu that doesn't try too hard, as if the chef has something to prove. The mains are relatively pricey - around £20, although the starters averaged only around £8, including for six oysters, which is very good value. Around half the items on the menu were fishy, which suited me fine. I liked the local touches with desserts (all £7.50) featuring Battersea honey.
The breakfast menu, which was a lovely mix of traditional English and some more contemporary options, didn't disappoint. I went for the 'brain food breakfast' of smoked mackerel on wholemeal toast with poached eggs and a berry smoothie. My husband went old school with boiled eggs and soldiers. No, we didn't leave by helicopter in case you are wondering. But the chopper brought in a few lucky guests as we were having breakfast, which made an unusual and entertaining vista.
London's Vertical Gateway
Bridges Wharf, Battersea
London, SW11 3BE
Sat Nav Ref: SW11 3RP
Tel: 020 7801 3500
www.hotelverta.com
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