Pictures: The food and drink coming to York’s new rooftop bar – and there’s a restaurant, spa and Starbucks opening too
Malmaison will open the doors to its first boutique hotel in York on 20 May – and it has revealed more details of what we can expect.
As we revealed back in January, Malmaison York’s most jaw-dropping feature is the rooftop bar, offering genuinely astonishing views over the city.
The Sora skybar, an Asian tapas and cocktail venue, will serve up a fusion of traditional dishes, from sushi and steak to skewers and sticks from the Robata grill.
“Specially concocted cocktails like Cherry Blossom Negronis and Sesame Old Fashioneds will give an authentic feel, expertly crafted with House of Suntory spirits, enhancing the Asian influence,” said a spokeswoman.
It will also stage live performances from DJs and “awesome saxophone players” every weekend.
Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, it will be open till 2am on Fridays and Saturdays, and midnight every other night.
An incredible place
But that isn’t the only dining option. The hotel will also be home to the Chez Mal Brasserie & Bar, popular in the chain’s other 16 hotels.
It will “serve up its usual mix of a la carte dishes, signature drinks amidst a fun, upbeat atmosphere”.
There are separate menus for breakfast, lunch, dinner, comfort food and Sunday lunches.
Housed in the old Aviva building, the hotel has 150 guest bedrooms and suites.
Guests will be able to enjoy the spa, a fully equipped and spacious Technogym, and on-site Starbucks with an outdoor terrace.
A new extension to the rear of the building will feature Malmaison’s distinctive Work+Play facilities – with meeting pods ideal for hourly use or longer term co-working space, conference rooms and event space for up to 150 guests.
“Designers have taken inspiration from the city’s industrial heritage and brutalist architecture, mixing concrete and moody elements with softer textures and confectionery touch points, drawing on York’s famous alumni including the Rowntree and Terry families,” said the spokesperson.
Guus Bakker is chief executive at Frasers Hospitality, which owns the Malmaison and Hotel du Vin brands.
He said: “As a city, York has so much to offer, from Roman and Viking roots to independent retail stores, and is one of the UK’s most coveted tourist destinations. It’s an incredible place and it only makes sense for Malmaison to become part of this story.
“We are already present in York with Hotel du Vin on The Mount, and look forward to building our boutique offering further with this launch.
“As people plan staycations for the year ahead, the new hotel, alongside Chez Mal and our new Asian fusion skybar Sora, will offer something exciting for locals who are looking to try something new, as well those visiting the city from across the UK.”
For more information on Malmaison York, visit the website here.