Chisou Japanese Restaurant
01
food
One of the cosiest, most authentic Japanase restaurants in London. It has a menu large enough to satisfy every palette, with seasonal specials that really do tickle the taste buds. Quite simply, this is one of the best.
Blakes
02
hotels
I love this boutique hotel in Kensington. Though tiny, this hotel exudes more character per square inch than most hotels do in a lifetime.
Padella
03
food
Sister restaurant of Trullo in Islington. The style of this place is so astonishingly elegant and their passion for Italian food so obvious. It is expertly presented without fuss, yet somehow with flourish. It’s dignified excellence without arrogance. They know exactly what they are doing!
Borough Market
04
food
Borough is full of fine foods: artisanal cheeses, square pies, charcuterie, fresh bread and cakes, olive oils, herbs, fruit and vegetables and the occasional crafts. If your luggage allowance allows it, it’s a brilliant place to buy presents for friends back home. The market architecture is inspiring in itself and all undercover so come here, rain or shine. You can easily spend half a day here and then either visit the Shard, or wander south via Bermondsey St. to Maltby St. market.
The Victoria and Albert Museum
05
culture
If you like a museum, you can’t really come to London and not visit Cromwell Road. Three major UK galleries are based here; The Victoria & Albert (V&A), the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum. You could probably do all three in a day but I’d advise spending at least half a day at the V&A. There’s a beautiful courtyard for lunch and a department of fashion that will make you yearn for a private dress-up session. They also run spectacular ‘Friday Late’ events that often descend into partying.
La Bodega Negra
06
food
La Bodega Negra is a place for two things: fun and tequila! Don’t like either of those? Don’t go. This is not your typical Mexican restaurant. I won’t go into too much detail and ruin the surprise, but two things to expect are delicious Mexican food and a plethora of tequila options. Let’s put it this way, I couldn’t imagine a better location for La Bodega Negra than in a basement, in the middle of Soho, surrounded by nightclubs and sex shops. It may not be a restaurant to bring your conservative grandmother to, but it was the perfect place to have my birthday! I feel like the saying, “a picture is worth 1,000 words” definitely applies here.
The Chiltern Firehouse
07
hotels
One of my father’s hotels and deservedly on my list because it is an incredible hotel and truly one of the best in London. One gorgeous detail is open fireplaces in each room - some have two! Opulent interiors.
Endo at the Rotunda
08
food
Unassumingly hidden in an apartment complex, Endo at the Rotunda is a restaurant you want you visit. Or rather, that you need to. Sushi master Endo serves an Omakese menu of the highest, most tantalising quality. His attention to detail is so strong that he flies his water in from Japan, as only Japanese water is good enough to cook rice in. No joke.
China Tang
09
food
China Tang is in the Dorchester. Meaning it is smart, and wants every guest to feel special. It is ornate, it is expensive, but boy is it good. Tip: Sit in the bar for a more casual, but just as delightful meal. It's almost better than the restaurant itself.
Farmacy
10
food
A great brunch spot offering organically and biodynamically prepared food. Nature is their trademark. They also do a lovely High Tea and there’s an online shop to peruse.
Pace
11
culture
Pace sits subtly next to the back entrance of The Royal Academy, but the art it exhibits is anything but. Sometimes an assualt to the senses, sometimes a delight, one thing is for sure: Pace knows how to stimulate. Its exhibits are well worth a visit.
Fortnum and Mason's
12
shopping
Fortnum's is a delight to the senses, in every way, from its exquisite window displays to its tantalizing chocolate emporium. The whole store is clad in its famous 'Fortnum's Blue', which is, quite simply, beautiful. There is no better time to visit than at Christmas, when you feel like you've walked into a dream.
The Ritz
13
hotels
The Ritz is, quite simply, an institution. There is nothing more spoiling than an afternoon tea in its famed, gilt-laden tea room. Sip champagne and eat the most delightful cakes and sandwiches, feeling like royalty; spend summer afternoons on its beautiful terrace, bathed in sunlight and exquisite food. Its rooms are just as full of pomp and glory: there is nowhere more sumptuous to lay your head.
Tate Britain
14
culture
The Tate Britain is a visual manifestation of everything you would want in an art gallery. It is classical in tone, classical in architecture, and classical in art. Which is some of the best in the world.
The Wallace
15
food
An old, massive townhouse, turned into a museum that has a stunning restaurant situated in a solarium in the middle. The food is your typical French-ish, English-ish cuisine… but listen, you’re not going here to be wowed by the food. You’re going here because the restaurant is a massive solarium, in the middle of a beautiful, old townhouse, that has been converted into a museum.
Claridge's
16
hotels
This landmark art deco luxury hotel dating from 1856 is a 3-minute walk from both Bond Street tube station and the shops of Oxford Street.
Isabel
17
food
Casa Cruz's sister restaurant has been firmly touched by the charm of the suave, sophisticated and seriously good looking Juan Santa Cruz. It's owner has ensured that the restaurant makes everyone feel special, and its food is great, too. After dinner, head downstairs to the bar for some of London's coolest djs to entertain you whilst you drink the night away.
Coya Mayfair
18
food
The perfect place to start a night out, Coya is as much about its food as it is its cocktails. With DJs, the best pisco sours in London and lashings of Peruvian sharing plates, this place says friends, fun and some naughty behavior to follow.
Cowshed
19
activities
When in need of a spa, Cowshed does the trick. A firm favorite of Soho House members and the general public alike, Cowshed is fun. It is flirty. And it is exactly what I need on a rainy afternoon.
Tate Modern
20
culture
Gallery exhibiting from Damian Hirst’s vast 3,000 piece art collection...and more. Big-hitter solo shows from the likes of Gavin Turk and John Hoyland. Excellent bookshop and the building by Caruso St John won the prestigious Stirling Prize in 2016 - check-out the spiral staircase.
The Wolseley
22
food
The Wolseley is that classic, old-school, quintessential London stalwart. It is also, quite simply, one of the most beautiful restaurants in the world. Bizarrely, its neoclassical interiors suit breakfast as much as a celebratory dinner.
The Saatchi Gallery
23
culture
I love the exhibition that has been there for years… I almost don’t want to say what it is because part of the fun for me was the first few minutes trying to figure out what it was. My Clue: It’s in the basement.
The River Café
24
food
The River Cafe is, unequivocally, one of the best restaurants in London. With tranquil al fresco dining and a daily menu that emphasizes Italian delicacies of the highest quality, this is the perfect place to spoil yourself. Everyone is happy, every dish is delightful, and their bellinis make it the perfect weekend treat.
Min Jiang
25
food
Min Jiang is one of the best restaurants in London for two reasons. The first is the duck, which must be ordered at least 24 hours in advance. The second is the view, which is one of the most spectacular in the city. REOPENS IN NOVEMBER 2020.
A. Wong
26
food
With a super-cool basement and sensational dim sum, head to A Wong for a treat. Its 'Taste of China' menu is well worth the investment.
Harvey Nichols
27
shopping
Harvey Nichols is a wonderful place to shop. It is not too big; it is not too small. And it has everything you could ever need. Go here for a less-crowded, more digestible alternative to Harrods, which is just down the road.
Dinner by Heston
28
food
Based in the luxe Mandarin Oriental, Dinner By Heston twists the common conceptions of food to showcase the culinary uniqueness of the famed Heston Blumenthal.
Scott's
29
food
Scott's is, without a doubt, one of the finest restaurants in London. Serving some of the best seafood around, there is nothing more spoiling than spending the afternoon on the terrace, gorging on oysters and watching the world go by.
Yauatcha
30
food
Nowhere else in London takes this strange but wonderful combination of Dim Sum, Patisserie and Cocktails to such an extraordinary level. The detail in everything is breathtakingly beautiful. If you want refined Cantonese cuisine, have lunch here.
The Natural History Museum
31
culture
The Natural History Museum is a marvel. With a dinosour skeleton sweeping over the main hall, the museum is full of wonders and curiosities at every twist and turn. It is spectucular.
The Ninth
32
food
A casual restaurant with a Michelin star, The Ninth is perfect. With a Mediterranean menu focussed on sharing plates, this place is Fitzrovia's pride and joy. Tip: order the pain perdu.
Photo: Paul Winch-Furness
Ikeda
33
food
An old-school Japanese dream, this Mayfair stalwart is located right opposite Claridge's. Although not cheap, we dare you to find as
The Science Museum
34
culture
The Science Museum is fun. Period. Whether you're an actual kid or a big kid like me, there is no better place to spend a rainy afternoon. Filled with brightly-colored educational games and interactive exhibits, you will learn without even realising it.
Duke's Bar
35
food
Duke's Bar is known for its martinis. And wow, are they good. But wow, are they potent. Come here for a special pre-dinner treat but be warned, just one is enough!
White Cube Mason's Yard
36
culture
White Cube is a haven for modern art: the East London branch is nothing short of sensational, and always guarantees one of the best exhibitions in London.
No. Fifty Cheyne
37
food
50 Cheyne looks formal, but it's not. It is, quite possibly, one of the most welcoming restaurants around. With an upstairs salon laden with seriously comfortable sofas, a rich red bar and the best service imaginable, it has everything you could want in a restaurant. It even has an apartment you can rent out, if you feel so inclined.
The Dorchester
38
hotels
The Dorchester has always been one of London's best hotels. Its location, nestled between Hyde Park and Mayfair, make it a venue like no other. Its food - whether at Alain Ducasse or the legendary China Tang - is ever-decadent. It's lobby? Well, there is no better spot for piano-adorned people-watching in London.
The Mandrake
39
hotels
If you want an experience like no other, The Mandrake is eclectic, holistic and luxurious. Aside from the Artist in Residence programme, which is already quite out-there for a luxury hotel, The Mandrake shamelessly celebrates wellbeing, offering workshops and courses for those in search of inner calm. You could be fooled into thinking that you’ve landed in a Balinese treehouse, so lush are the views from their terrace rooms.
Gloria
40
food
Gloria is larger-than-life in every single way. Its dining room is huge, bustling and joyful. Its interiors are like an over-the-top, indoor secret garden and its menu is a perfect mixture of everything expected. You're guaranteed to leave this place smiling. Tip: It's perfect for Sunday brunch.
Hotel Café Royal
41
hotels
Grand, vast, refined and on Regent’s Street. The hotel with a sumptuous spa and, if you have the means, try and book the Dome Penthouse – the roof terrace will make you weep with joy.
Dinings Harcourt
42
food
The original Dinings is an homage to food. With a simple, pared-back decor, this place does not want to distract from its truly sensational menu. Dinings is for real foodies, with a respect for the freshest food and culinary expertise. Go there.
The Soho Hotel
43
hotels
Understated elegance at this luxury hotel tucked away in the heart of Soho, off Dean St. Two of the suites have terraces that overlook the streets of Soho.
St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel London
44
hotels
An impressive renovation bringing a palatial Victorian hotel back to 5-star splendour and right in the heart of a rapidly regenerating area. Spa, gym, pool, club and within walking distance to Coal Drops Yard with its designer shops, canal side dining and evening events. You’d also be 5 minutes’ walk from the Eurostar for day trips to Paris or the UK’s Kent coast (54mins to Folkestone).
Barrafina
45
food
Cosy, diner-style tapas bar with stools for Spanish small plates, served with sherry, cava and more.
Shangri-La at the Shard
46
hotels
Choose this for the views, floor-to-ceiling, wrap-around glass gives you that Tokyo feeling that you’re hovering over the city.
The Lanesborough
47
hotels
The Lanesborough was once the world's most expensive hotel. And for good reason. A step through the hotel's torchlit doors welcomes you into a world of Regency decadence. There's marble galore, lashings of gold, and a bar that is perfect for whiling away any winter's evening. The rooms are fit for Marie Antoinette.
The Berkeley
48
hotels
With one of the best spas in London, The Berkeley provides an urban oasis during the summer months. Sit back besides their rooftop pool, sitting lemonade or a glass of champagne. In the winter, sit atop the same roof - this time, however, cuddle up under blankets to watch your favorite cosy movies. It's a special, romantic treat.
The Mandarin Oriental
49
hotels
The recently renovated Mandarin Oriental does itself proud. It is an homage to luxury, with decadent scents, out-of-this-world food, and one of the most sumptuous bars in London.
Brown's Hotel
50
hotels
Brown's is a hotel of classic elegance. In the heart of Mayfair, nestled amongst luxurious shops, world-renowned galleries and spectacular restaurants, the hotel is perfectly situated. It is elegant and discreet at the same time, and offers all the luxurious services of a Rocco Forte Hotel. It is, quite simply, a home away from home for the cultured traveler.
Aman Spa
51
activities
One of the best spas, in one of the best hotels in London. If you don't know the Aman resorts by now, you should. They're one of the best high-end hotel groups around, to be found in the most relaxing of destinations. The combination of Aman's heady notes of calm and one of London's most opulent venues is the definition of luxury.
The Royal Academy
52
culture
The Royal Academy is a centrel tenet of the British Art World. Whether in highlighting emerging artists in its annual Summer Exhibition, or displaying some of the best works the country has to offer, it really is an homage to art. And it's in a beautiful building, too.
The Conran Shop
53
shopping
I find it difficult to leave these concept stores. A furniture shop by name, The Conran Shop is actually a wondrous treasure trove of eclectic items. Whether you want a dining table or a kooky paper weight, a coffee-table book of the most beautiful photographs or the coolest headphones on the market. This place is the definition of fun: I have honestly spent hours just searching through their book collection and tableware
Harrods
54
shopping
Harrods is the epitome of exquisite. From its lashings of marble to its decadent Food Hall, everything about Harrods is over the top. Whilst some tourists come here merely to gawk, it provides the ultimate shopping experience, too. From the service to the smells, it is glamor, personified. Plus, its products know no bounds. Head to the Toy Department and you'll see what I mean. It's one of my favorite places in London.
Natoora Sloane Square
55
food
This isn't just a grocery store. This is a colour-filled, exotic-fruit selling heaven. Natoora has the most unique and beautiful variety of fruit and vegetables, each adorned with its own story and background. Just walking in there is a treat.
Selfridges
56
shopping
Selfridges is always busy, and for good reason. One of London's foremost department stores, it has everything. Location, variety of wares, excellent food. And all at a variety of price points. Tip: avoid at weekends, when it can be well and truly hectic.
Lore of the Land
57
food
Guy Ritchie may be known for his movies rather than his food, but you have absolutely got to try the menu at his pub. Lore of the Land is everything a pub should be: it is cosy, it is relaxed, it is intimate yet buzzing. His roasts are sensational, and his weekday menus are pretty spectacular, too.
Casa Cruz
58
food
The second you walk through the doors of Caza Cruz, you will become Don Draper. Its sleek sophistication, rich dark green walls that are accented by gold, and lashings of beautiful people create the ultimate spoiling environment. Amazingly, it is as cosy as it is glamorous, so it's the perfect place for some romance.
Nathalie
59
food
Nathalie is an exceptional place. Opened by Casa Cruz's Juan Santa Cruz, this is a deli/ restaurant of the highest standard. With a salad counter of the most exceptional quality, delicattessen items of pure magic and the sharpest, cleanest interiors, this is the perfect, most spoiling working lunch spot.
Dinings SW3
60
food
Dinings' most recent outpost is more vibey, more snazzy, and has a cocktail bar welcome you in. It is architecturally interesting and its menu is brave. But it works. Although not cheap, it has some of the best sushi you can find in London. Tip: there is a lovely garden to sit in for summer lunches.
The Laddershed at Chiltern Firehouse
61
food
With an ambience that is both relaxed and playful, serene and sexy, the Laddershed is the perfect place to while away the hours over a negroni and some smooth, soulful music. It is, quite possibly, the definition of cool.
5 Hertford Street
62
food
5 Hertford Street Club is one of the most exclusive private members clubs in town. Spread over an entire townhouse, it has everything from a scandalous, basement bar, to a fully-stocked library enriched by fireplaces and photographs of the owner's dogs.
Photo: Instagram
Core by Clare Smyth
63
food
This chef restaurant does not disappoint. Clare is, officially, the best female chef in the world. That's reason in itself to visit.
Yashin Sushi
64
food
Ordering soy sauce is frowned upon in Yashin. Whilst it will let you have it if you really, really insist, the restaurant maintains that each mouthful is served with the perfect amount of taste. Any more distracts from the full flavor of the fish that it serves. With the option to go for omakase or a la carte, the restaurant's menus are all spectacular: Yashin's food is pure art. Temporarily closed.
Il Baretto
65
food
Marylebone is bursting at the seams with good restaurants. Il Baretto is no exception. The restaurant defines itself as 'simple and authentic'. Whilst it's menu may not be unique, it is classy, elegant and features all the neighborhood classics you could want. And it does them well.
Pachamama
66
food
Pachama is fun. It's flirty. It serves excellent, excellent food and some pretty perfect cocktails. The restaurant has a laid-back attitude and just wants you to enjoy yourself. So much so, that it even offers some pretty fun masterclasses: whether you want to make some ceviche or discover the perfect pisco sours, there's something for everyone.
Petersham Nurseries
67
food
Petersham Nurseries – though it is a bit of a trek to get to if you are staying in central London, Petersham Nurseries is worth it. Located in the stunning Richmond Park, you will find this little gem of a restaurant hidden under a greenhouse. Surrounded by trees and flowers of every species, and walls adorned with teacups and little knick-knacks, Petersham Nurseries is the definition of whimsical. When eating there, you will feel like Alice in Wonderland.
Phat Phuc
68
food
Phat Phuc is a unique specimen in Chelsea. What can only be described as a food truck, nestled in a courtyard off the Kings Road, serves some of the best food around. It is cheap. It is cheerful. And its name is reason to visit in itself.
Annabel's
69
food
Decadent. Deluxe. Entirely over-the-top. There is no other way to describe the giant that is Annabel's, which presides over Berkeley Square with aplomb. It has glittering lights, a decor garnished with onyx and gold, and one of the best gardens that London has to offer.
The Araki
70
food
The Araki is one of the most exclusive reservations in London. It is a Japanese restaurant from the heavens, with an omakase menu that is, quite probably, one of the best in the world. If you manage to get a seat here, you are very, very lucky.
Zuma
71
food
Zuma is always bustling, with a menu that is both modern and almost always enjoyable. With lashings of truffle, cocktails on tap and a crowd of the international jet-set, make sure you reserve in advance.
Barrafina
72
food
Barrafina is an amazing tapas restaurant, and it’s the perfect place to go if you are looking to share a delicious meal with a group of friends.
Andrew Edmunds
73
food
Andrew Edmunds – on a quiet back street in Soho, is a non-descript 18th century townhouse which you could quite easily walk past. Inside you’ll find crumbling walls, a scruffy hand-written menu, and tiny tables with just enough space to squeeze in next to your neighbor. Everything about this restaurant is horribly romantic. The food is as good as the charming atmosphere, and with an extensive and famous wine list at knockdown prices, Andrew Edmunds is a must if you’re in the area. And If you’re lucky, you might even get a glimpse of Mr. Edmunds who is in the restaurant most evenings.
Restaurant at The Petersham
74
food
A family-run organic garden centre with a restaurant; a veritable horticultural emporium that exudes passion for nature, good food and beauty. What began as a singular concern in Richmond, now has an active experimental theatre group and a second base in Covent Garden. Choose from 'The Petersham' or the Italian-toned 'La Goccia'. Both are sensational. Glorious flora!
Dean Street Townhouse
75
food
A plush offering from the Soho House group and open to anyone, the ‘Whole roast grouse, game chips, red cabbage, pate on toast’ is worth travelling for from anywhere in the world. Tables outside for a pre-dinner G&T are perfect for people-watching along Dean Street.
The Ivy Cheslea Garden
76
food
Yes, it is similar to the one in the US and it’s a really great place for lunch or brunch. The restaurant practically sucks you in as the walls are adorned with teacups and flowers. If you can grab a table in the back courtyard, do! But you should definitely book in advance.
The Monocle Café
77
food
A calm, minimal, relaxed little cafénear Chiltern Firehouse, this is the sort of place I come to do a bit of work and have a coffee. Obviously you can buy the latest edition of Monocle magazine, if you need a break from the laptop.
Colbert
78
food
Colbert is something of a stalwart, being the go-to for locals and visitors alike. A French brasserie perched on the corner of Sloane Square itself, a meal here is somehow both casual and opulent at the same time. Sip negronis in the bar or graze on cassoulet duck - or the most perfect scrambled eggs - on the restaurant's terrace, watching the world go by.
Gymkhana
79
food
After a post-fire refurbishment, Gymkhana is back in full force. Inspired by Indian gymkhana clubs, the restaurant was awarded a Michelin star in 2014.
Pidgin
80
food
James Ramsden has opened a permanent restaurant to showcase his culinary delights. With a seasonal set menu that changes weekly, it still has four courses and it’s still delicious. Check the menu online before you book if you don’t want to be surprised, or take the leap and enjoy!
