Tuesday, May 1, 2018

Ritz Paris, the pinnacle of luxury hospitality

Returning to the Ritz Paris after the extensive renovation which saw it close for the very first time in its history, has once again revealed the impressive DNA of this icon of luxury hospitality which is about a unique standard of service and the finest product and offerings whether in accommodations, culinary or wellbeing.
While maintaining the lavish classic Belle Epoque style of the interiors, the renovation has provided an opportunity to update the hotel to the latest technologies, further enhancing the ultimate comfort of the rooms and suites of the hotel. Incredible attention has been paid to the quality of materials and finishes. The entire hotel feels brighter, with subtle colour enhancements in furnishing as well as lighting.
With the renovation, new themed suites have been recreated culminating with the Prestige Suites. The Ritz Paris has faithfully restored the signature decor of celebrated guests such as Marcel Proust, Frédéric Chopin, Coco Chanel and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. All the furnishings reflect the personality of each of the famous figures they represent.
Among the newly created accommodations are the Jardin Suites overlooking the courtyard gardens. My suite, a Grand Jardin Suite had an incredible outdoor terrace, providing the utmost in serenity in the heart of Paris. The superb marble bathrooms feature large rain showers and separate bathtubs, with bespoke bathroom amenities. Some of the original features such as the gold swan taps and the peach coloured towels have been maintained, exactly as they were conceived by Cesar Ritz.
The sleek new Spa has been conceived in an exclusive partnership with Chanel, the very first such venture for the legendary French couture house whose founder called the Ritz Paris home for many years. An especially designated Chanel beauty space has been created along with Spa rooms, providing a sophisticated range of signature facials. The swimming pool is a must-have indulgence.
Whether a casual meal, a sophisticated dinner, an afternoon tea or a bespoke cocktail, Ritz Paris offers a wide range of dining options. There are no less than 3 bars, including the Bar Vendome, Hemingway Bar and Ritz Bar, each featuring a distinct atmosphere. One of the busiest spaces of the hotel is the Bar Vendome which has a beautiful outdoor area for all-day dining.
Grand Jardin Suite
The one-Michelin starred L’Espadon Restaurant headed by Chef Nicolas Sale features a garden space, Les Jardins de L’Espadon. Authentically French, the dining experiences are defined by creativity and sophistication. I had a wonderful lunch at Les Jardins de L’Espadon. Service throughout the dining outlets is of the highest standards, attentive, warm and predictive.
One of my favourite spaces in the hotel is the Salon Proust which is serving an afternoon tea with a French flair. The living room style designed space has library walls and a working fire place. Like all the other venues, Salon Proust attracts both hotel guests and outside patrons. The predominant clientele of locals in the dining venues is yet another major achievement of the hotel.
The Ritz Paris has its very own cooking school, L’Ecole Ritz Escoffier, unique in the world, a place where French know-how is taught to aspiring professionals until they achieve excellence and to culinary enthusiasts, be they novices, experienced Chefs, or budding young cooks. There are professional courses as well as courses designed for entertainment.
Coco Chanel Suite at Ritz Paris

Eric Jrm Engelen






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