Castro and Churchill in oils survey this cigar lounge – one of two spaces boasting ritzy heated smoking terraces at the lavish new Wellesley Hotel. The contents of Crystal’s state-of-the-art
walk-in humidor would surely impress both men, but there’s hand-rolled pleasure to suit all budgets here – from £12.50 panetelas to covetable Cohibas at £3,000 and astronomically priced boxed sets.
Similarly, a fantastic selection of single malts, eaux de vie and Cognacs will set you back upwards of £30 per double measure, while cocktails are on the money for ideas such as an Italian
margarita (Reposado Tequila, lime and lemon sorbet, agave syrup and kirsch). In keeping with the building’s former incarnation as Pizza on the Park, Crystal has its own live jazz room; ‘jazzy’ is a
term that might also apply to the more exotic elements of the Wellesley's decor.