The Franklin

Revisiting The Franklin in the heart of Knightsbridge felt akin to stumbling upon a well-guarded local secret, much like discovering an untouched first edition stashed amongst paperbacks at a yard sale. Nestled in that elegant Victorian charm synonymous with this exclusive enclave of London, the allure of the place lies not just in its Michelin-tinted menu but in its enveloping warmth and quirky joie de vivre. Alfredo Russo's culinary creations were nothing short of sensational—a delightful romp through modern Italian cuisine. Our night began with tantalizing dishes tumbling from antipasti into mains and one cannot overlook how the tiramisu married subtly with peppercorn ice cream evoked a sweet nostalgia, connecting sophistication with playful imaginings.

Yet, for all its culinary fireworks, it’s truly the human touch that defines The Franklin. Amidst polished silverware and crisply folded napkins stands an homage to attentive service—something Mattia and his team understand intimately. Their grace was exemplified through little gestures: a glance, a joke, helpfully deciphering the wine list as if unearthing long-forgotten vinicultural treasures. Even surprise tea outings appeared decked out Chanel-style, celebrating special moments like birthdays and anniversaries with joyful abandon. True to the compellingly soul-stirring promise of a bespoke boutique experience, Franklin deals in memories worth cherishing, shadowed only infrequently by service hiccups like vexingly delayed breakfasts or unyielding showers. So, it's worth a visit - as what's served up elicits the laughter and lightness of living; worth saving room amid London's cacophony for another quietly extraordinary reverie.