Ask the Concierge: Insider Tips from Mandarin Oriental Mayfair's Peter Wharmby
Mandarin Oriental Mayfair’s amiable Peter Wharmby started his luxury hotel career at just 19, as a bellman at the Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire. Within a year, he was already sharing his expert local knowledge as a concierge. A move to London followed and after stints as a night and day concierge and six years holding the post of head concierge at the Four Seasons Dubai, he returned to call Mayfair home once more.
Today, Wharmby creates unforgettable guest experiences as head concierge for both the hotel and residences at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair. ‘There is a real sense that you are at the centre of where things happen while still maintaining that unmistakable Mayfair discretion,’ he notes. And with Valentine’s Day just around the corner, who better than the charming concierge to reveal Mayfair’s most romantic secrets – where to find the dreamiest fragrance, heartfelt flowers and fine dining to sweep anyone off their feet.
What are your top recommendations for Valentine's Day jewellery or engagement rings on Bond Street?
De Beers, Old Bond Street: Diamond heaven! Perfect for those who want their love story written in stones.
Graff, New Bond Street: For when only jaw-dropping, show-stopping diamonds will do.
Chopard, New Bond Street: Swiss precision meets creative flair; fun meets fabulous.
Which Mayfair restaurants are best for a romantic dinner?
Noble Rot Mayfair: Wine-focused modern European cuisine. Upstairs tables = privacy + romantic vibes.
Sketch: Every corner feels like a storybook setting, which makes it incredibly photogenic and unforgettable, with incredible seasonal dishes.
Mazarine: The menu is a love letter to French coastal cuisine, and seafood is very much the star of the show.
Where can couples savour the most delicious cocktails this Valentine's Day?
Whether you are toasting to love or simply looking for a dreamy spot to end the evening, Hanover Bar at Mandarin Oriental Mayfair knows how to do cocktails with class. Golden hour here offers a one-of-a-kind view. Sunset cocktails turn into twilight conversations, and before you know it, you are ordering “just one more”.
Where are the best florists in the area for those all-important Valentine's Day roses and bouquets?
Lavender Green: This is our in-house florist, so I’d always suggest their florals for Valentine’s Day as they really know their craft. They give a more relaxed, stylish take on romance: understated and elegant. Perfect if you want something a bit different that still feels thoughtful, modern and quietly luxurious.
Wild Things Flowers: A trusted Mayfair florist since the mid-1990s with a strong focus on creative, beautifully composed bouquets crafted with genuinely artistic flair. The shop was founded by self-taught designer Louise Bermingham, who brings her eye for colour, texture and floral storytelling to every arrangement, from classic roses to more imaginative seasonal designs.
Neill Strain Floral Couture, The Atelier at No.8: For those who want to go all out, Neill Strain is the couture house of floristry. Think editorial‑worthy roses, bespoke designs and show‑stopping arrangements. Perfect for proposals, milestone moments or when subtlety simply won’t do.
Who are your favourite chocolatiers?
Charbonnel et Walker: Tucked inside the Royal Arcade on Old Bond Street, its beautifully wrapped boxes are the kind you proudly hand over on Valentine's Day, knowing you've absolutely nailed it. Elegant, indulgent and delightfully British, this is chocolate gifting done very, very well.
Fortnum & Mason: Just a short stroll from Bond Street on Piccadilly, this iconic institution is a wonderland for anyone who believes chocolate should feel like a proper event. From exquisitely boxed truffles and pralines to heart-themed treats and beautifully curated gift selections.
Where are the best Valentine's Day scents waiting to be discovered?
If you want your Valentine’s gift to be more than just beautiful, something that lingers in your loved one's memory forever, then Ormonde Jayne is pure magic. Founded in London but inspired by travels around the world, it creates perfumes that feel luxurious, personal and utterly distinctive, like bottled feelings. The fragrances don’t just smell nice, they tell a story of warmth, intrigue, romance and individuality.