The British Capital’s luxurious Sofitel London St James recently unveiled two flagship suites by Paris-based interior architecture studio Pierre-Yves Rochon and the result is nothing short of exceptional. To find out more about the suites, which have completed the hotel’s multi-phase transformation, and much more, Wayfarer’s James Wilkinson exclusively spoke to Sofitel London St James General Manager, Marie-Paule Nowlis.

Marie-Paule, Sofitel London St James is popular on so many levels, from the location to the hospitality, design, rooms, and food and beverage offering. Tell us about your favourite thing about the property.

Enjoying a beef tartare prepared by Anthony Demetre at Bistrot at Wild Honey or on the Terrace. For me, the execution is better than at many of the finest French bistros in Paris.

Also, our seasonal cocktail menu at St James Bar. It can even be enjoyed in the comfort of one of our suites.

Tell us about the stylish rooms and suites on offer, including the all-new Opera Suite.

Our rooms and suites beautifully reflect Sofitel’s signature blend of French elegance and British heritage, with each space thoughtfully designed to offer both comfort and sophistication in the heart of London.

Guests can expect refined interiors, luxurious amenities and a true sense of understated luxury. All guest rooms have been designed by renowned French interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon.

We’re particularly excited about our newly redesigned signature suites: the Opera Suite and Suite 70.

These exceptional spaces showcase the very best of Sofitel London St James, combining elegant design, generous living areas and bespoke details to create a truly memorable stay for guests seeking an elevated London experience.

Tell us about the fantastic food and beverage on offer, which is some of the best in London.

We’re proud to be home to Wild Honey St James, our Michelin-starred restaurant led by Chef Anthony Demetre, where classic French techniques meet the finest seasonal British produce to create exceptional modern European cuisine.

Alongside this, Bistrot at Wild Honey offers a more relaxed, French-inspired dining experience, while The Rose Lounge is the perfect setting for our Phantom of the Opera-inspired Afternoon Tea.

Guests can also enjoy expertly crafted cocktails at St James Bar, one of London’s most stylish destinations for drinks.

Together, these venues offer something for every occasion, from casual lunches and pre-theatre dining to special celebrations and memorable evenings out. During the summer months, guests can also enjoy our seasonal pop-up, Bistrot on the Terrace.

How important is loyalty, particularly given the global popularity of Accor Live Limitless (ALL)?

We have one of the highest percentages of loyal guests across the Accor luxury portfolio, so loyalty is incredibly important to us.

Marie-Paule, tell us about a couple of your favourite things to do in the local area.

First, a wine tasting at Berry Bros. and Rudd. Founded in 1698, it is one of Britain’s oldest fine wine merchants. Guests can visit its exceptional cellars, just moments from the hotel, and be guided by one of its specialists.

Also, a visit to Lock and Co. Hatters, founded in 1676 and recognised as the world’s oldest hat shop.

Guests can enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at its historic archives and contemporary atelier, where a master hatter presents the art of hat-making, from felt shaping to bespoke fittings, while sharing stories of the brand’s iconic clients and enduring Royal Warrants.

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