Given the Mandrake root’s trippy herbal reputation, it’s fitting that the mind-bendingly exotic, sensual interior of this boho-deluxe boutique hotel is a magical mystery tour de force. The décor throughout the hotel has been thoughtfully designed to offers guests an immersive experience, strongly influenced by the Amazon rainforest and nature.
There is a choice of three bars at The Mandrake, although Waeska is perhaps the most intriguing of the lot – a decadent clubby cocktail lounge overseen by a fantastical creature that is half-gazelle, half-peacock. As you enter, your eye is immediately drawn to the collection of treasured artifacts, objets d'art and priceless artworks housed behind the expansive labradorite bar.
Guests can sample a unique range of cocktails and bar snacks in this one-of-a-kind venue. The cocktail menu is founded on ethnobotany – the study of a region’s plants and their practical uses through the traditional knowledge of a local culture and people. Expect a range of drinks that feature various herbs and botanicals you’ve likely never heard of before.
Restorative plant-based sips include Oshun (Bombay Sapphire gin infused with gynostemma herb, yuzu sake, basil, sudachi sherbert and champagne) or Euphoria (St Germain elderflower, Muyu Chinotto, blood orange, champagne and fennel). A serious selection of spirits, sakes, mezcals and digestifs are also available from the general bar menu.
Diners can sample a selection of bar snacks alongside, inspired by South American cuisine, such as spinach, pine nut and ricotta empanadas, chorizo iberico, guindillas and almonds, burrata with chicory, hazelnuts and pears and oysters with ancho chilli vinegar.
Looking for a late-night drinking destination? Every Friday and Saturday night, Waeska hosts also live DJ nights for guests to head to after hours for a dance within dark and mysterious surrounds. An evening spent at this opulent bar is guaranteed to be one to remember.