Urbanologist and networker Kimberly Kriss shares with U her favourite meeting places.
London is one of the most exciting places to live, work, play and visit. But finding a great place to meet for business, isn’t as easy as you may think. Who wants to spend their day working in a dimly lit public workspace, even it is based in Shoreditch, or an overcrowded coffee shop – lacking ambience and inspiration. Kimberly Kriss lists of where to go for a business meeting.
Located in the heart of Sloane Square, Colbert is the mastermind of the team behind The Wolseley and The Delauney - Corbin & King. From an early breakfast meeting to a late night drink meeting, Colbert can’t be beat. Walking into Colbert, you are instantly transported into a buzzy brasserie as if you were in Paris. The relaxed ambience provides inspiration; conversations can easily be had at a normal level; and the staff are super attentive so your every need is anticipated and taken care of with grace and ease. Grab a table in the bar area or one in the larger restaurant area. The back restaurant area is a bit quieter so I would recommend that for business meetings of four or more. There are plenty of tables, but do make sure to make a reservation as they often get busy at all hours. And if you’re on business alone, the bar is a smart place to grab a bite, a drink, make some calls or set up your next meeting.
A private members' club located on Shaftsbury Avenue in the heart of Soho, The Century Club is discreetly hidden behind a non-branded door. With five floors and multiple restaurants and bars, getting a quiet space for 2-6 people to meet or do some work usually isn’t an issue even when the club is otherwise busy. Open from 8am-2am, there’s always time to conduct business here. And as outdoor space in London is coveted, they boast the largest rooftop terrace in Soho… a great plus. The annual membership is very fair and the club membership provides access to reciprocal private clubs in NYC, Munich, Vancouver, Paris, Athens, Manchester and Shanghai. They have a stellar concierge service as well so you don’t have to worry about making your next plans, wherever they may take you.
At the edge of Soho is Berners Tavern. Open from 7am to 12am, this sought after destination is great for your business meetings. As Forbes Magazine awarded them the best breakfast in London, this is surely the place for your next morning meeting. But with all of the cooking overseen by Michelin star chef Jason Atherton, Berners Tavern is sure to impress clients or colleagues any time of day or night. Located in Ian Schrager’s Edition Hotel in Fitzrovia, Berners Tavern is not only gastronomically stellar, the ambience exudes old world grandeur yet is distinctly modern. For larger meetings or meetings that require some privacy, a private dining room is available to book. As this is a popular destination, best to book ahead.
Connaught Bar in the Connaught Hotel
The vibe in the Connaught Bar is buttoned up, modern, and cloaked in elegance. Service is impeccable. It’s an ideal place for any business meeting. Located in the five-star Connaught Hotel in the heart of Mayfair, The Connaught Bar is open from 11am-1am. Feeling peckish? You have the option of two Michelin star restaurants located in the hotel - one from Helen Darroze and the other from Jean-Georges. And… getting to your next meeting isn’t an issue. They provide chauffeur service in various luxury vehicles including a Rolls Royce Ghost. Your every business need met, if not exceeded.
One of London’s ‘not so best kept secrets,’ Duke’s Bar is tucked away on St James Place – a tiny, hidden street you would never walk down if you weren’t heading to Dukes Bar or the boutique hotel where the bar is located. This spot exudes warmth and gentlemanly charm. It’s perfect for a leisurely and quiet business meeting. Known for their exceptional martinis carefully made in front of you from their famous martini cart (said to be inspired by Ian Fleming), any business deal can be celebrated or closed with memorable finesse. Dukes Bar is not only an exceptional destination for a business meeting, it’s one not to be missed while in London.
About Kimberly: Having grown up in New York, lived in LA, Dallas, and Boston, and now residing in London, she has worked with and at some of the biggest global brands. She now runs a brand consultancy in London, helping emerging and existing companies build strong brands, create impactful marketing, digital & comms strategies, and ensure they have the right team in place to continue to deliver positive commercial results. As a former journalist, Kimberly is also a public speaker and speaks at corporate events across Europe.
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Talking business
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London's Best Meeting Places
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Meet & greet
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