Reviewed by Dee Ryz
Who would have thought that there would be an Austrian Apres Ski bar nestled amongst the high rises in the city of London? Well, Savage Garden, found on the 12th floor of the Doubletree by Hilton at Tower Bridge, offers just that with their new ski Savage Schloss pop-up.
The new bar officially launched on 6th November, with an extravagant opening party fit for any alpine slope!
The experience began as soon as we entered the hotel. We were greeted by the events team with our very own ski passes, giving us access to a dedicated priority lift decked out as a gondola complete with wooden bench, where we reached the 12th floor in absolutely no time. From there, it was a quick walk along the “Is this just fantasy” pink neon lit corridor to the fabulous apres ski bar, and while I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect, the sultry Savage Garden, described as ‘London’s wildest rooftop’, did not disappoint!
The team behind the bar had gone all out – there were Christmas trees, snow dogs (yes, they had brought in a REAL Saint Bernard and Husky for cuddling), a wooden ski lift, ski attire and the rest. It was spectacular and really well laid out. The walls were clad with wooden panels to give a real ‘chalet’ feel, and snug tables were draped with gingham tablecloths, surrounded by red velvet seats – very cosy indeed. Looking out of the windows, we also couldn’t help but be impressed by the stunning view of the Gherkin, Shard and Tower of London – at 12 floors up, and with views like that, we could easily have been at the top of a mountain in the middle of the city (if such a place existed!).
After exploring the seating area, we sipped on our welcome drinks as we moved down towards the bar area where the bar staff were wearing ‘Let’s get piste’ jumpers and serving a variety of cocktails (the White Lady was very tasty), steins of beer and fizz.
Shortly after our arrival, an Oompa band consisting of three men in Lederhosen took to the stage to announce the beginning of the festivities and from there on in, it was fun and games a-plenty! We danced, we drank, we played games and we sang along to some of our favourite songs.
As the night went on, we decided to sample some of the alpine-themed comfort food. On offer, they had everything from meatballs and currywurst to raclette and fondue – all of which was absolutely delicious and very true to the theme! I could easily have spent the rest of the evening sipping on a glass of something bubbly while nibbling on the cheese fondue…
Sadly, the event was over all too quickly and we made our way down from the mountain side to head home, merry and full, with Europop songs going around in our heads.
So, if the launch night was anything to go on, this pop up is not to be missed. Get your skates on – sorry, skis – and bomb down to Savage Schloss. Prost!
Rating: 5/5
For more information or to make a booking visit www.savagegarden.co.uk.
12th floor, Doubletree by Hilton Hotel London, Tower of London, 7 Pepys St, London, EC3N 4AF
