Scene may be missing the richness in detail of other central bars but this means its crowd is considerably more relaxed and there is no need to strut around in designer gear.

The Venue
Scene is the bar of the central Park Plaza hotel but it is not one of those hidden hotel bars you’re unaware of unless you spend the night in one of the rooms upstairs. On the contrary it is hard to miss from the road since it has floor-to-ceiling glass windows looking out on Boar Lane. The bar is not very big and it lacks the details in decor that’s displayed at the Chico Latino, the upstairs hotel bar and restaurant.

The furnishing is simple with white and deep red square armchairs, comfy, modern, small round tables, one couch and a few stools by the bar. A sheer white curtain hides the action from the street only in part and the wall panels of the lobby (red in white cases) project a changing light creating a soothing atmosphere.

The People
Quiet and bright, the fact that Scene is not over designed actually plays a positive role in its atmosphere. The place is way more relaxed than other flashy bars. Anybody can walk in, pass the reception and sit down for a drink. Many customers are suited-up hotel guests but you can easily find Loiners in jeans coming in as well, especially in couples.

The Food
The food is just as uncomplicated which is definitely a welcome change in the bar, erm, scene. You car order a deli sandwich (£6 to £7) with a choice of breads and fillings like house cooked ham, or you can opt for a Caesar salad, nachos and bruschetta from the light bites section (£4.50 to £11).

They also serve stone baked pizzas (£10.50 to £12.50), grilled 8oz Aberdeen Angus beef burgers and a selection of traditional mains (£9 to £10) like bangers and mash, chicken tikka masala or fish and chips.

The Drink
There is no drink menu so it is hard to figure out what you can order. As a general rule, this is a hotel bar so the staff will go out of their way in any way legally possible to satisfy you.

The basic drinks on offer are fairly standard beers, spirits, a few house wines and soft drinks. A beer will cost you around £3 while a coke is about £1.50. The prices are actually good in comparison with Chico Latino upstairs, where you pay £3 for a simple juice. You can even try asking for a classic cocktail as the staff are so determined to please they may take up the challenge even if cocktails are not part of their regular offers.

The Last Word
If you're trying to avoid a high maintenance night out but you're still keen on some refinement Scene should meet all your requirements.

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