The Meliá White House, part of Meliá Hotels International, is pleased to announce a new partnership with celebrated author and literary curator Emily Rhodes.
Housed in a stunning Grade II listed building from the 1930s in central London, the hotel will introduce a special “Reader’s Retreat” suite, thoughtfully crafted by Emily Rhodes to immerse guests of The Level in literary experiences during their visit.
The Level, Meliá White House’s premium service, provides guests staying in Level Rooms or upgraded suites with an enhanced experience, which includes evening turn down service, complimentary breakfast, and upgraded amenities. Level guests also gain access to The Level Lounge, London’s first members-style lounge, offering tapas, snacks, and beverages throughout the day.
The hotel’s spacious and opulent Level rooms and suites will be transformed into a literary haven for book lovers and culture aficionados to relax and indulge. The Reader’s Retreat will showcase a diverse selection of curated books that capture the spirit of both Meliá White House and the surrounding area.
Guests in the Level can request a personalized set of books upon arrival through the concierge, or they can enjoy the collection while unwinding in the exclusive Level Lounge.
Explore Emily’s top recommendations for winter reading: The Glassmaker by Tracy Chevalier, an enchanting novel; cozy crime short stories in Silent Nights, edited by Martin Edwards; the classic The Lonely Londoners by Sam Selvon; The Siege by Ben Macintyre, a compelling narrative of the siege at London’s Iranian embassy; and Right Kind of Wrong: How the Best Teams Use Failure to Succeed by Amy Edmondson. Guests can purchase copies at the charming local bookshop, Daunt Books.
Emily Rhodes is a prominent writer and literary figure, with her work featured in esteemed publications such as the Financial Times, Spectator, and the Guardian. Since 2012, she has led a Walking Book Club in Hampstead Heath and recently established a new chapter in Regent’s Park, conveniently located near Meliá White House. Each guest booking the Reader’s Retreat suite will receive a personalized invitation to join Emily’s Walking Book Club, connecting them with literary enthusiasts from around the globe.
Emily also founded the Daunt Books Festival in 2014 and recently launched the impactful charity Bookbanks, which provides books to food banks across London.
Emily Rhodes
On November 20th, the launch of the Reader’s Retreat will be marked by the third Supper Club at the hotel’s Mediterranean-inspired Arado Restaurant, featuring an evening of delightful dining and engaging conversation. Guests will have the opportunity to discuss their favorite books with Emily and explore her journey as a prominent female writer and journalist.
The Q&A session will be followed by a seasonal three-course meal, crafted from locally sourced ingredients with a nod to Meliá’s Mediterranean influences. Guests will enjoy a selection of exquisite canapés, a variety of sharing starters, and their choice of entrée and dessert. Vegan options will also be available.
Begin the evening with an assortment of canapés, including Truffled Brie & Plum Chutney Bruschetta, Porcini mushroom arancini, Grilled Octopus with Chimichurri Sauce, or 24-hour Smoked Short Ribs with Tamarind & Pomegranate Glaze.
For the main course, guests can enjoy the Beef Wellington served with a comforting Dauphinoise Potato, roasted seasonal vegetables, carrot puree, wild mushrooms & red wine jus. Alternatively, guests can choose the Duo of Black Cod with Confit peas, clams, sea asparagus & burnt leek puree in a seafood bisque or the Pecan Nut Roast, accompanied by Beluga lentils, chestnut mushrooms, cheddar cheese, port & cranberry jus.
Indulge in a delightful winter dessert, selecting from the Christmas Pudding with brandy sauce and fresh berries, Sticky Toffee Pudding with pistachio ice cream and caramel sauce, Petit Four, classic Mince Pie, or a Vegan Cheesecake. You can view the complete menus HERE.
Tickets for the third installment of the Meliá White House Supper Club Series featuring Emily Rhodes are priced at £60 per person, which includes a three-course festive menu, a welcome drink, and wine or soft drinks. Reserve your spot now via Eventbrite.
Emily Rhodes expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating: “I have always believed that what we read profoundly shapes our understanding of our surroundings. It is a true honor and joy to curate a collection of remarkable books for guests in the heart of London, and I can’t wait to share this experience through the upcoming Supper Club.”
The Reader’s Retreat will be available for bookings starting in November, providing guests with a serene oasis to relax, reflect, and enjoy the timeless joy of reading.
Last year, Meliá White House completed a significant £40 million renovation, unveiling a new identity for the hotel. It has been reimagined as a premier destination hotel, enhancing its rooms, suites, restaurants, and overall services, including The Level lounge.
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