‘In Xanadu did Kubla Khan…’ runs the first line of the poem by Coleridge – an oft-recited schoolboy ode that also inspired the entrepreneurial owner of the luxurious new Hotel Xanadu, just a short
drive from Heathrow. The interior is awash with artefacts reflecting the ancient Silk Route travelled by Marco Polo, and the Koobla Bar & Restaurant also aims to highlight exotic flavours and
spices procured from faraway lands. Mixed platters are fine for grazing, otherwise pick from a menu that promises the likes of BBQ Mongolian calf rib with turmeric and black pepper, steamed whole
sea bass with pickled vegetables or Strait of Malacca lamb curry spiced with galangal and lemongrass. An ‘express’ menu is served until 7pm, and the cocktail list also takes its inspiration from
the flavours of the Spice Route.