London is filled with historic hotels but amongst them all, The Savoy stands out. With a rich history spanning over 130 years, each and every corner has a story to tell. At the height of luxury the five star hotel offers not only a place to stay, but also a place to be wined, dined and entertained. The Savoy has seven restaurants and bars under its belt – and last night it was my turn to experience the Thames Foyer for their inaugural evening of – Judi Jackson : Musician-In-Residence – Live at The Savoy.
Known as the heart of The Savoy, the Thames Foyer in London is a stunning setting where guests dine under a glass domed atrium, radiating natural light and sociable warmth. An impressive gazebo takes centre stage from which a pianist plays during the day and more lively bands entertain at night. Famous around the world for its Afternoon Tea, this venue also plays host to a delectable breakfast, varied all-day dining menu, and in the evenings it’s the home to The Savoy’s live music programme:
Live at The Savoy!
We began our evening with a glass of champagne in the ajoining Beaufort Bar and once our table was ready, took our seats close to the central gazebo to start our evening of Dinner & Jazz. The new menu at the Thames Foyer is inspired by the great Chef – Auguste Escoffier, one of the codifiers of French haute cusine, who in 1890 accepted an invitation from Richard D’Oyly Carte to join him at The Savoy in London to set up and run the kitchens. Escoffier accepted this offer… and the rest is culinary history! Some of the dishes in the new menu include renowned recipes, which were invented by Escoffier at The Savoy, such as the Pêche Melba, which was created in 1893 in honour of Australian singer Nellie Melba.
“As day turns to night the ambiance shifts and the Thames Foyer becomes a more sultry and intimate setting for dinner and evening drinks accompanied by the very best live music in town.”
The entire menu was well thought out and presented. Highlights for me were the oysters, (which made for a show-stopping starter) the mini croque monsieurs and of course I couldn’t leave without trying the famous pêche melba ! Topped with a burnt sugar nest, decorated with gold leaf -it was the perfect finish to the the meal, soft, light and fruity – my ideal dessert! Throughout the meal and in between courses the musical stylings of Judi Jackson and band were simply incredible. Singing all the jazz hits as well as some of the more unknown varieties, her voice accompanied perfectly by her three piece band was effortless. I was transported to a more glamourous time, reminiscent of the 1920s jazz age.
‘For the first time in Savoy history, we introduce a Musician-in-Residence, performing a series of gigs in the Thames Foyer and joining our team of Savoy Residents. Our first Musician-in-Residence will be jazz vocalist and performer Judi Jackson. Having recently launched her debut album ‘Live in London’, the Virginia-born jazz vocalist and performer will embark on her new residency at The Savoy with an exciting new repertoire. Frequently on the road, Judi has sold out headline shows world-wide and has collaborated with the likes of Warner Music’s George Moore and Michael League, member of Grammy award-winning band Snarky Puppy, for the creation of her 2017 EP ‘Blame it on my Youth.’
Judi Jackson will perform at The Savoy on Wednesday 24 April, Friday 24 May, Thursday 20 June and Thursday 25 July.
Also performing as part of the Live at The Savoy series will be Montreux Jazz Talent Awards winner Jalen N’Gonda. Jalen will perform at The Savoy on Thursday 9 May, Thursday 16 May and Friday 7 June, with further dates to be announced.
Having spent a good three hours enjoying both the entertainment and delicious food and drink offerings, I can honestly say the night was one I won’t forget easily. If like me, you love your music and your perfect night out includes top class performance then this would be ideal for you. So If you’re celebrating something special or even just as a treat, I would highly recommend booking yourself in. Feel the glamour of yesteryear and live up to your full Hollywood star potential in the most lavish setting in London!
K x
