Review: The Hoxton Rome

Why book? The Hoxton Rome is the most stylish new hangout in Rome’s Parioli—an upscale district brimming with good food and art and culture. Since its opening, its restaurant and cocktail bar Cugino has drawn Rome’s coolest local crowd. The mid-century inspired design is a refreshing change of pace for Rome, at an affordable price.

Set the scene. This the U.K. hotel brand The Hoxton’s 10th property and first in Italy, and like all Hoxtons, the design is immaculate. The rustic parquet floors gleam beneath statements sofas, and marble tabletops hold perfectly placed vintage lamps. Globetrotting media types sip espressos while working at their laptops on the shaded outdoor terrace.

The backstory London-based Ennismore Design Studio have impressively transformed a 1970s modernist space into a Hoxton, leaving the dusky pink façade and and creating a big, expansive, light-filled lobby and a communal outdoor space. Furnishings are from local vintage markets, while tabletops and bar fronts are adorned with local marble.

The rooms The Hoxton’s 192 bedrooms come with names like Shoebox, Cozy Up, Roomy Terrace and Biggy. Inside, design inspiration comes from classic cinema, with rustic parquet floors, lacquered timbers and local stones. There are bespoke statement headboards, and Murano glass chandeliers. Pro-tip: book the Roomy Terrace room, which comes with a suntrap of a balcony.

Food and drink Don’t miss the excellent aperitivo at Cugino, which offers a curated list of cocktails, served with housemade snacks (friggitelli quesadilla with smoked scamorza, wild black rice bowls). For something more substantial, head to Elio Restaurant, where the menu – designed by Sarah Cicolini, of Santopalato fame – brings strong holiday vibes (lamb skewers, fried fish, Basque cheesecake).

The neighborhood/area Upscale with large avenues, grand villas and plenty of greenery, Parioli’s the perfect place to retreat to after a day’s sightseeing. Contemporary galleries MACRO (Museum of Contemporary Art) and MAXXI (National Museum of 21st Century Art) are a short stroll from the hotel.

The service Smart, knowledgable and friendly without being obtrusive.