Leander Paes

OT Which is your favourite hotel in the world
Leander Paes During international tournaments, I have stayed at some of the most elite addresses. It&rsquos difficult to pick one favourite. One hotel that caught my attention recently is the Sofitel London St James (from $400 sofitelstjames.com).

OT When did you visit
Leander Paes It was a short trip last year, when the hotel I usually stay at was full and a friend recommended this.

OT What impressed you
Leander Paes I enjoyed the heritage feel of the place &mdash high ceilings, Corinthian-style marble columns and the Big Ben-like clock in the lobby. The St James Bar is inspired by celebrated designer Coco Chanel&rsquos Paris apartment.

OT Is the location convenient
Leander Paes It is very central &mdash Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, Waterloo Place, Piccadilly and Regent Street are all close by. We stayed in the Royal Suite, which overlooks Waterloo Place.

OT Any special meals
Leander Paes I loved the charcuterie at The Balcon restaurant, where I ate with a foodie friend. The charcutier dished up some unique and delicious Welsh and French platters. The chef made us a great beef and foie gras cottage pie with chanterelle mushrooms, a sturdy dish with three slabs of foie gras atop the mashed potato, oozing dark gravy. The rare teas served at the Rose Lounge were nice, too.

OT Will you visit again soon
Leander Paes As soon as I figure out my calendar &mdash I get to London at least once a year, if not more.