Late-night lounge Esmerelda’s to open within Mandarin Oriental Mayfair

Live music and late-night lounge Esmerelda’s Mayfair is set to open next month within the Mandarin Oriental Mayfair in London’s Hanover Square.

The space has been inspired by the golden age of New York’s live lounges, featuring low chairs and burnt orange velvet curtains.

From Thursday to Saturday, the room welcomes a six-piece band blending soul, funk and disco, as well as a DJ.

The snacks menu includes the likes of caviar-topped chicken nuggets, Wagyu sliders, lobster rolls, skinny fries and oyster towers, while drinks range from Champagne to cocktails.

The project was founded by identical twin brothers Lee and Nicky Caulfield. Lee is also the director of Circle PR, while Nicky is the chief executive and founder of Molto Music Group, which has collaborated with venues such as the Savoy, Soho House and the Dorchester Collection.

A no-photo policy will be in place for guests attending Esmerelda’s.

Lee said: “Esmeralda’s will be a place for guests to disappear for hours, let their hair down and feel completely themselves. No cameras, no performance - just the best live music, service and a sense of freedom you cannot manufacture.”

Nicky added: “We’ve obsessed over sound and space: the band is close, the mix is warm, and the room invites you in. It’s a place where artists can take risks and guests can disappear for hours without a phone in sight.”

Hemal Jain, general manager at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair, commented: “Esmeralda’s was born from a desire to create a true sanctuary in the city – a place where the energy of live music meets the intimacy of late-night conversation. It’s a destination for those seeking a sophisticated, sensory experience that feels both immersive and alive. We’re delighted to welcome such an innovative and dynamic concept to Mandarin Oriental Mayfair.”

Mandarin Oriental Mayfair launched in June 2024 with chef Akira Back overseeing all of its F&B outlets, ranging from the Akira Back restaurant to the ABar Lounge cocktail bar.

However, the luxury hotel ended its partnership with Back in July, roughly a year after its opening.