Elli Jafari and her team at The Standard London had only been open for eight months when COVID struck. Suddenly entertaining guests in the fabulous surrounds of Camden’s brutalist former Town Hall Annexe was wiped off the agenda, and they found themselves  trying to work out what on earth happens next. Now, one year on from their glittering launch, it’s time for a very different reopening.

How did COVID and lockdown affect the hotel?
“It was heartbreaking to close the hotel and restaurants, but everyone’s health and safety had to come first. Since that moment, we’ve spent all of lockdown planning and plotting for our reopening, so we’re thrilled that the time has finally arrived.”

What’s your current offering?
“We began by opening our ground floor bar and restaurant, Double Standard, just over a week ago. It has a beautiful outdoor terrace and a 70s inspired interiors and we’ve been working hard to ensure we’re adhering to all the new government guidelines and recommendations across the two spaces.
We have a new menu offering all the Double Standard classics – including our legendary burger – as well some new things like Aperol spritz slushies which are perfect for summer on the terrace. 
The hotel will be back open from August 7^th and we have some new staycation packages for those looking for an opportunity to really treat themselves after lockdown.”

What have been your greatest concerns?
“Simply the sense of uncertainty and not knowing when we might be able to re-open.”