Secret Garden & The City At South Place Hotel
This spring, you can slip into a New York state of mind without ever leaving London. South Place Hotel has partnered with Cointreau to transform its garden terrace into Secret Garden and The City — a Manhattan‑inspired takeover that nods to both New York’s energy and the world of Sex & The City. The hotel marked Cosmopolitan Day, with the return of the iconic cosmo.
The terrace feels like a self‑contained escape. Pink flowers hang from a mesh overhead canopy, creating a space that feels intimate without tipping into enclosed. Cushioned seating and bar‑height tables are dotted around the room, and there’s even a small water cascade tucked into one corner. Visually, it’s striking. Pops of orange in the upholstery bring warmth and vibrancy, while the soft pink canopy and lush green plants keep the space grounded. The mix is playful but still sophisticated.
The bespoke cocktail menu, created by Head of Bars Mo Fady in collaboration with Cointreau, features margaritas, spicy margaritas, a smoky paloma and, naturally, a cosmopolitan. Unfortunately, supply issues meant the bar ran out of lime and cranberry juice on the night we visited, so several drinks were unavailable — including the cosmo itself. Hopefully that’s a short‑lived hiccup.
Of the drinks we could try, the standout was the Chamomile Bloom — Cointreau, rose liqueur, bergamot liqueur, citrus, soda water, chamomile and orange foam. It tasted like spring in a glass. The spicy paloma leaned bolder and warmer, thanks to a subtle chilli kick.
Food came courtesy of Queensyard, adding another New York thread to the evening.
A practical but welcome touch: the terrace has a retractable roof. Given the British weather’s unpredictability, it’s a smart addition, though we were lucky enough to visit under clear skies.
South Place Hotel, a five‑star boutique spot just a three‑minute walk Moorgate station, has created a space that works year‑round. With thoughtful planting, atmospheric lighting and that all‑weather roof, the terrace feels pleasantly removed from the pace of the surrounding streets.
If you stop by, hopefully you’ll get the cosmo and enjoy a little slice of New York in the City.
Address: South Place Hotel, 3 South Place, EC2M 2AF
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/southplacehotel
