London is within the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, where history, tradition and design prevail. Its food scene, cultural wealth, royal decadence, architectural landmarks and luxurious hotels make it one of the most loved cities in the world and definitely one of my all-time favorites... here is my list of go-to places for a fabulous stay!
HOTELS
- L'Oscar: this 5-star hotel in the heart of London is a 39-room hotel named after Irish writer Oscar Wilde. L'Oscar is the latest interior design project of Jacques Garcia (known for designing Hôtel Costes in Paris and La Mamounia in Paris, amongst many others). Every room is unique and richly decorated with silk and velvet feels.
- The Laslett Hotel: chic boutique hotel in the heart of Notting Hill, consists of five Victoria townhouses elegantly designed, with a British library, art-filled walls and host of the Henderson bar and coffee shop.
- The Lanesborough: right next to Hyde Park and located in the exclusive shopping district, close to Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Sloane Street and Knightsbridge. The hotel hosts 93 suites and bedrooms, impeccably decorated by the renowned designer Alberto Pinto. It also has a vibrant Library Bar and Garden Room and a fabulous Spa.
- High Road House: part of the Soho House Hotels, this 14-room Georgian townhouse located in West London has an intimate and light atmosphere. Each room is unique but all with the same light and air and the common spaces are flawlessly designed with mid-century pieces of furniture.
- The London Edition: in Soho. Thoughtful design and excellent service, amazing dining and nightlife: all brought together to make your experience bold yet comfortable.
- The Goring: family-owned hotel. Small, intimate, luxurious, with the most impeccable taste and service... will make you want to stay in London forever!
- Flemings: iconic boutique hotel in the heart of Mayfair, walking distance from Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, Burlington Arcade and Berkeley Square.
RESTAURANTS
- The River Café: all-time favorite restaurant in London serving seasonal Italian food that transports you directly to the Mediterranean. With a river-side open terrace and impeccable service. Perfect for Sunday lunch.
- Dean Street Townhouse: owned by Soho House and located in the Soho neighborhood, this restaurant has art-filled walls with an informal setting, and serving a traditional British menu.
- The Henderson Bar: chic ambiance with a British terrace, this bar in the heart of Notting Hill serves seasonal British cuisine. In the Laslett Hotel,
- Berenjak: authentic Persian cuisine with a contemporary twist in Soho. Using fresh British ingredients to recreate Iran's most traditional dishes. Makes me feel at home!
- Chiltern Firehouse: located in Marylebone is one of my go-to lunch spots or simply for afternoon tea or drink.
- Fallow: in Mayfair. A warm and easy going atmosphere, offering sustainable British cuisine, with a cool ambiance and delicious dishes.
- Behind: in London Fields. Intimate fish-focused tasting menu run by chef Andy Beynon.
- Yashin Sushi Bar: modern sushi restaurant with fresh ingredients only and a hard-to-choose-from menu.
- Passo: classic Italian restaurant in East London with a super warm ambiance.
- Farmacy: farm-to-table recipes, curated and delicious organic dishes. Love coming here for breakfast or brunch.
- Roka: one of my favorite contemporary Japanese restaurants. Award-winning dishes.
- Scalini: traditional Italian at the heart of Chelsea. Amazing seafood, chill and quiet atmosphere.
- La Petite Maison: elegant French restaurant in Mayfair. Mediterranean ingredients that will transport you instantly to the French Riviera.
- Scott's: seafood restaurant serving the finest oysters. Located in Mayfair with an iconic terrace.
TO DO
There is so much to do in London, endless of cultural activities, neighborhoods to explore, historical landmarks to see... here are a few of my top things to do.
- Walk through Chelsea, my favorite neighborhood and discover every corner. So charming and filled with small shops and cafés.
- Discover Notting Hill, its color-filled buildings, vintage stores and authentic restaurants.
- Portobello Market, every Friday-Sunday Notting Hill's main street, Portobello Road, closes off and hosts several markets where you will find the most insane antique and vintage treasures, food stands, and flower shops..and perhaps your Hugh Grant as well ;)
- Tate Modern, family of four art galleries in London, finest selection of contemporary art in London.
- Columbia Road Flower Market every Sunday at East London's hip Shoreditch neighborhood.
- Hyde Park for an enjoyable walk or jog, or for an afternoon picnic al fresco.
