OVERFLOWING with glassy skyscrapers and busy offices, the City of London is often overlooked by its own residents. Known for its suited bankers and relentless pace, it’s easy to forget that this corner of the capital hides pockets of charm. Hithe+Seek is one of them, discreetly hidden inside a Southbank hotel, inviting visitors to discover a different perspective of the city.
Hithe+Seek Interior
Stepping inside you can feel the atmosphere instantly shifting. Calm, intimate, and cinematic, the bar feels like the setting of a classic film. Dim lighting sets the tone for quiet conversation, while the glass-wrapped lounge frames the city outside the tall, shadowy outline of Tate Modern looms to the right, and the softly illuminated Shakespeare’s Globe peeks out across the inky waters of the Thames.
Dark green velvet window seats invite guests to settle in, watch the city slowly fade into the night, and lose track of time.
Hithe+Seek Scotch Egg
The extensive cocktail list only enhances the mood. The menu covers everything from timeless classics think Margarita, Old Fashioned, and a playful Lemon Drop Martini (a softer alternative for those who shy away from the sharpness of a traditional vodka martini) to inventive house signatures.
The Red Smoke entices with Aperol, Orr Bay syrup, and Oban 14, crowned with a light lime foam, while By the River is a heartier gin-based creation lifted by maraschino liqueur. On chillier days, the selection of Hot Toddies provides a perfect antidote to grey London afternoons, each one made with fragrant ingredients to warm from inside out.
Hithe+Seek Octopus carpaccio
The food offering, though more concise than the drinks list, is equally thoughtful and creative. Designed for mixing and sharing, the menu journeys across cuisines with dishes like fluffy Bao buns stuffed with braised pork belly and peanut crumble, or seared scallops served atop black, crunchy paella rice. Delicate octopus carpaccio arrives paired with crisp Jerusalem artichoke chips, a light yet indulgent choice.
Craving comfort, I also couldn’t resist the buttery lobster roll topped with trout roe, followed by the bright, punchy tuna tartare tacos. The vegetarian dishes are equally tempting: smoky baby aubergine moutabal and playful patatas bravas, served with manchego cheese and a rich black garlic aioli, proving meatless plates can be just as exciting.
In a part of London where business is at the forefront, Hithe+Seek feels like a secret, which is meant to be savoured and invites you to linger just a while longer.
by Olga Petrusewicz