The Hoxton Urban Lodge

Food & Drink - November 2006

'Budget doesn't have to be boring' says Pret A Manger founder Sinclair Beecham, who is doing to hotels what he did to sandwiches. The Hoxton Urban Lodge has ditched extras like chocolates on pillows and the ever-extortionate mini-bar to concentrate on style, comfort and convenience. This is a funky 21st-century hotel, all neon-lit corridors, pale walls, dark wood and stylishly functional furniture. There is a sense of fun that can be seen in the 'paper-scissors-stone' hand signals that adorn the cushions. The beds are large and comfortable and the spacious bathrooms have a wonderful wet-room style shower. All rooms have WiFi and flat screen TVs, and phone calls won't break the bank (calls to US for example, are only 5p per minute). In-house restaurant The Hoxton Grille is all exposed pipes and brickwork, high ceilings and contemporary art. Head Chef Sydney Aldridge, formerly of Terminus at the Great Eastern Hotel, cooks up a transatlantic selection of dishes from burgers to chateaubriand. The hotel is in the heart of trendy Hoxton, close to Liverpool Street Station and a mere two minute walk from all manner of hip bars and cutting edge boutiques.