“Marchal strives to make the d’Angleterre dining experience appealing to all of the senses, giving a modern urban touch to the tradition of culinary passion,” explained Lucas Johansson, General Manager of Hotel d’Angleterre in Copenhagen, which also houses the Michelin-star restaurant.
Tell me a little bit about the founding, history and location of Hotel d’Angleterre.
d’Angleterre is located in the heart of Copenhagen at Kongens Nytorv (the King’s New Square). d’Angleterre was founded in 1755 by the young couple Jean Marchal and Maria Coppy. The two fell in love and complimented each other perfectly – she was a genius at cooking while he knew everything there was to know about servicing the aristocracy. This perfect match was the launch of the hotel’s history. This means that d’Angleterre can celebrate its 260 anniversary this year.
How do some of the most luxurious, signature suites differ from one another in terms of style and elegance?
The d’Angleterre Suites are all inspired by famous Danes, for example we have a Karen Blixen suite with an African theme and a Hans Christian Andersen suite with his own paper clippings on the walls. d’Angleterre’s Royal Suite is elegantly decorated in a classic style with antique furniture. It is lavishly furnished with gilded paneling, plush carpeting and grand chandeliers which adds to its palatial character. The royal suites goes from 150 to 250 square meters.
With regard to the spa and health facilities, what kinds of offerings are available to guests, and what specific treatments might you recommend?
The Amazing Space Spa d’Angleterre was also completely renovated along with the rest of the hotel. The spa offers an extensive menu of signature treatments, a lounge for relaxation and a fully equipped fitness studio. Amazing Space also have its own range of organic products. There are complimentary access to the pool and spa facilities for all in-house guests, but the spa is also very well-visited by Copenhageners. Amazing Space has recently won the award for Best Spa in the city of Copenhagen.
How would you describe the atmosphere, cuisine and experience of both Marchal restaurant and Balthazar, Denmark’s first champagne bar?
Our Michelin starred restaurant Marchal has a very ambitious kitchen and the food inspired by the Nordic and French classics. Marchal strives to make the d’Angleterre dining experience appealing to all of the senses, giving a modern urban touch to the tradition of culinary passion. Balthazar offers an extensive selection of champagnes from more than 42 different makers, signature cocktails and wine. Balthazar also serves dinner and snacks.
Finally, for guests looking to experience the best of Copenhagen while staying at Hotel d’Angleterre, what would be your top 5 list for enjoying the city?
Copenhagen is famous for its bicycle culture, if you want to explore the city the best, do it on a bike. Take the bike to Frederiksberg Garden and see the beautiful Frederiksberg Castle and park. Visit the Christiansborg Palace and see the Royal Reception Rooms that are used for official functions of the Royal Family. The museum Louisiana Museum of Modern Art is located 40 kilometers north of Copenhagen and has a permanent collection with over 3,000 works and 8-12 special exhibitions annually. The museum park has a great view over the Sound to Sweden. Tivoli Gardens is an old amusement park in the middle of Copenhagen. The rides are all designed to match Tivoli’s architecture and gardens. Tivoli’s oldest ride the wooden Roller Coaster turn 100 years last year and is one of the only seven roller coasters worldwide with a brakeman on board every train. Taste the traditional Danish smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) on rye bread. Smørrebrød is a daily staple for many Danes, and a true taste of the nation’s traditional cuisine.
Rahim Kanani is the author of critically-acclaimed hotel management book and hospitality management book A Wealth of Insight: The World’s Best Luxury Hoteliers on Leadership, Management and the Future of 5-Star Hospitality.
