Set in the converted monolith that was Bush House, ME Hotel’s lobby bar could the bridge of a spaceship from HG Wells’ War of the Worlds (once broadcast here). Service is as slick as Marconi’s open-plan, futuristic design – all shiny tubular chrome, monochrome marbles and putty upholstery – although prices aren’t steep by swish London hotel standards. Wines start at around £20 a bottle, with flutes of Moët at £9 – also the benchmark cost of a cocktail. Try AM/FM (a Bacardi, Chambord and fruit sling that pays homage to the bar’s inspiration) or London horizon (gin, green tea syrup, lemongrass and lime) served with complimentary bruschetti. Pore over breakfast and the newspapers until noon, or drop in later for small plates such as spiced prawn and chicken skewers, sausage rolls or gazpacho with vodka shots.