Ambiance: Originally designed in the 1880s as a private town house, the Lancaster keeps the feel of a private home with a pleasant courtyard. It was recently redecorated by the talented designer Grace Leo-Andrieu, who has also worked on the Montalembert in Paris and the Clarence in Dublin. Antiques are scattered throughout the hotel, including a beautiful collection of old clocks. For a distant view of Montmartre and the Sacré-Coeur, go to the gym.
Rooms: As with many boutique hotels, the smaller rooms are very small. All are elegant. The Hospes group recently took over the hotel and has begun a quiet upgrading, putting in natural-fiber mattresses and flat-screen TVs.
Service: From room service and concierge to housekeeping and the restaurant, the service is prompt, attentive and friendly–even to English speakers.
Food: La Table du Lancaster has been awarded a Michelin star. It should get two. Michel Troisgros combines fresh ingredients in inventive ways to define modern French cuisine.
