An Insider’s Guide to Mayfair with David Young from Brown’s Hotel

We’ve long been fans of the award-winning Head Concierge, David Young, from Rocco Forte property, Brown's Hotel in London's Mayfair. We were lucky enough to sit down with David and get him to spill his insider secrets on all things Mayfair.

We’ve long been fans of the award-winning Head Concierge, David Young, from Rocco Forte property, Brown's Hotel in London's Mayfair.

David is renowned for delighting guests with unsurpassed insider advice on where to go, what to see and what to eat in and around the district that borders Hyde Park.

We were lucky enough to sit down with David and get him to spill his insider secrets on all things Mayfair.

"Mayfair is laced with a rich and chequered history"

Why do you think Mayfair is so special?

Although affluent and central, Mayfair is laced with a rich and chequered history of the life and times of its famous writers and artists who lived, worked and played in its old and charming streets. There are hidden churches, fine dining, local pubs and undiscovered art galleries to be found.

Tell us, why do you love Mayfair?

Having moved from Australia to England in 2004, my first post was at as hotel in Mayfair that had a staff annexe in Shepherd’s Market. I have since worked in Knightsbridge and Covent Garden but jumped at the chance to return to Mayfair and join Brown’s Hotel, coming up to almost eight years. It’s a great place to come to work every day, easy to get around and it feels like as if you’re part of one ‘exclusive’ community.

What are your top suggestions for places to dine in Mayfair?

Well it has to be Brown’s – that’s located right in the heart of Mayfair. We’re so lucky with the different offerings that we have, from great hearty dishes at Charlie’s to our traditional Afternoon Tea in The Drawing Room, where we have been serving it for over 180 years. And excitedly, we will soon open another place to dine, namely, ‘The Supper Club’ – a place to come for a light bite or late evening snack in a relaxed informal atmosphere.

Scott’s – is also a short stroll from Brown’s and a truly local Mayfair hotspot, definitely one of my favourites. And if you’re a pizza lover, then it’s got to be Delfino Mayfair on Mount Street.

What bars do you suggest people visit when in Mayfair?

There are some wonderful bars in Mayfair but also some great pubs not too missed as well. The Donovan Bar at Brown’s has a range of vintage cocktails that you simply cannot get anyway else!

THE Negroni from The Donovan Bar

This is the ‘maestro’ Salvatore Calabrese’s very own collection. Many regulars come time and time again to The Donovan Bar (pictured below) for their Negroni or Martini – with the many Italian’s working behind the bar I understand why this is. They have also recently launched a brand new bar menu – 20 brand new cocktails that are unique and taste delicious.

Brown’s is located next to a trendy bar called Isabel – the décor is superb! That’s worth a visit. There’s also DUKES bar – that is famous for their Martini trolley.

Best spot for coffee in Mayfair?

Everbean – Simply the best coffee in Mayfair!

Things to do in and around Mayfair that are not to be missed?

1. Mercato Mayfair – for street food stalls in a Church. Two floors of an array of different foods from around the world in a beautiful setting of an old disused church. They also do great Gin and Tonics!

2. The Mayfair Chippy – One of the best places in London to get classic fish n chips.

3. Hendrix and Handel lived next to one another. Not at the same time mind you! Go visit the Handel and Hendrix in London where they lived.

Are there any insider tips or hidden secrets for people when visiting Mayfair?

Check out the birthplace of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Search for the plaque located on 17 Bruton Street.
Hidden Banksy Street Art on Bruton Lane.
Visit No 3 Savile Row for the Beatles last ever live performance as a foursome. The Rooftop is where it took place.
Pickering Place – London's smallest square.
Burlington Arcade – The longest indoor Street in Europe. Macaroons, shoe shops and watches.
Mount Street Gardens… stunning garden with a beautiful palm tree and a chapel.

"The service at Brown’s Hotel is unrivalled"

Where do you suggest people stay and why?

The service at Brown’s Hotel is unrivalled. As soon as guests arrive they’re offered a genuine and friendly welcome from our whole team who are unobtrusive, but there to help with anything guests might need in a seamless and discreet way. After all this is a home away from home, so it should feel comfortable but luxurious at the same time. The location is also second to none, surrounded by five royal parks which is fantastic during the summer months, walking distance to the west end and there are over 200 art galleries and many fashion houses close by.