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London really is the city that has it all. World class, unforgettable, one of a kind – it’s a heady mix of entertainment, culture and buzz. No wonder millions descend on the UK’s capital each year.
But when it comes to exploring its 32 boroughs, who better to ask than those who know it best? We invited some creative tastemakers to help extract the true essence of the capital and share what it means to live there – giving a unique peek into what makes up the many layers of the city they love.
State of the art: the G70 Shooting Brake makes a statement in Genesis’s gallery-like showroom
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In-the-know locals give the inside track on what, where and how to enjoy their city this winter
Explore London
Find yourself
Clockwise from ab
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Want to really immerse yourself in all London has to offer? Exploring the city on foot is the way to go – all 607 square miles of it.
As Christopher Perone, general manager at The NoMad London hotel (himself a native New Yorker), explains: “I’ve been here for five years, so I’d like to consider myself a Londoner now. And while New York has its hustle, bustle and frenetic energy, London has that too, but it’s tempered by its charm and community and more homey neighbourhoods.
“I really like that it’s a pedestrian city rather than a driving city. I’m a huge walker and love exploring new areas on foot. When you’re on the Tube, you often pop up somewhere and don’t really understand how everything is connected – you miss so much.”
Ryoichi Hirano, principal dancer of the Royal Ballet – who has captivated audiences in everything from Swan Lake to Don Quixote – agrees.
“I’m based at the Royal Opera House and because my train comes into Waterloo each morning, I walk across Waterloo Bridge to Covent Garden for rehearsals. It’s my favourite spot – the view is stunning. You can see everything from Big Ben to the City and St Paul’s cathedral.
“It’s an amazing combination of historic and modern architecture and I still get chills when I cross the bridge. When I’m not in a hurry I always try to walk instead of taking public transport – even after 22 years here, it means I still find places that I haven’t seen before.”
Style and grace
After a hard day at the Opera House, Hirano jumps at the chance to go down the pub
What would London be without its many and varied watering holes? Pulling up a bar stool is key for getting to grips with the city and its people, enthuses Hirano, who first came to London from Japan in 2001.
“The UK and Japan have a lot in common,” he says. “Both countries are big on community and getting to know each other over drinks. When I first moved here, I didn’t speak English and found having conversations in pubs was the best way to learn.
“People were so friendly. And they are often surprised, given I’m a dancer, that I’m a big fan of pubs, but we have to let our hair down somehow. One of my favourite drinking spots is The 10 Cases wine bar. And to keep me going, I love Opera Tavern for tapas, and Punjab, the Indian restaurant on Neal Street.
“After a hard day at the Opera House, my go-to order usually involves London Essence Original Indian Tonic Water – it’s good for muscle relaxation and cramps, so perfect for me!”
See things from a
From Parliament Hill to the Sky Garden and The Monument, London isn’t short on spectacular vantage points. For Hirano, it’s Covent Garden’s Piazza view that conjures up the real magic.
“Calling the Royal Opera House my office is surreal,” he laughs. “It’s not every day that an artist gets to look out at 2,300 seats full of people applauding them – it’s amazing to take a bow and see that.
“But for me, the view from the opera house’s rooftop Piazza terrace bar is unrivalled. It overlooks Covent Garden and you can see the London Eye, Trafalgar Square, even Canary Wharf. When I first came to London it was Bonfire Night. I stood up there watching fireworks soaring through the sky – from above the rooftops you have the most amazing view. I felt so privileged – it was incredibly special.”
With thousands of eating spots to pick from, it’s tough knowing where to begin. “I grew up on the outskirts of London in Maidenhead, Berkshire,” recalls Craig Johnston, head chef at The Berkeley’s Michelin-starred restaurant Marcus. “Being so near but not in the thick of it meant that London felt very close but strangely far away at the same time.
“It’s a city I’ve loved from an early age and my trips into London as a child always revolved around the theatre, football – my dad’s a big Chelsea fan – and, of course, food.
“I always take friends to Kiln in Soho for Thai food. The signature dish – clay pot noodles with brown crab and Tamworth pork belly – is sublime. Bombay-inspired Dishoom is brilliant too, and definitely worth the queue.
Find flavour
“For a very special occasion, The Grill by Tom Booton at the Dorchester is somewhere I’ve enjoyed some really memorable meals. Tom’s dishes look simple but it’s deceptive – they are packed full of flavour, with real complexity. Recently, I took a good friend who was leaving London there as a parting gift to celebrate our time together. I highly recommend it.”
For Perone, it’s The Guinea Grill in Mayfair: “It really brings together London heritage, pub culture and incredible food and hospitality. It’s the place I take visitors to or Londoners who’ve not been before – for that real London experience, you just can’t beat it.
“Bocca Di Lupo, the Soho Italian, has also become a special place for me – I’ve celebrated, laughed and mourned there. And while it’s hard to get a reservation, very often they manage to say, ‘You know what, I’ll be right back…’ and somehow magic up a table. If they ever have pork belly on the menu, order it.”
There’s a good reason why London’s parks are visited by millions each year, notes Hirano: “When city life feels overwhelming, I head to the green spaces of Hampstead Heath, Hyde Park and Kensington Palace Gardens – they’re lovely all year round.”
And if the Christmas crowds begin to feel a little stifling, he suggests heading southeast: “As a stargazer, I’m a big fan of taking the Thames Clipper Uber Boat to Greenwich to visit the planetarium at the Royal Observatory. Seeing the stars and enjoying a few minutes’ peace up there is incredibly calming, which is quite remarkable to find in such a busy city.”
The allure of London’s parks is especially irresistible over the festive period, agrees Perone. “During winter, I love to grab a Thermos of mulled wine and spend the day walking through the parks in London – from Battersea Park to Hyde Park, it’s all beautiful. In New York you don’t get to spend too much time outside around Christmas because it’s so cold, so I find it a real treat to soak up the festivities that way.”
Green
For Anna Anderson, founder of co-working and community-minded events space Kindred, in west London, London life is all about homely haunts.
“Kindred is based around a sense of community, which feels especially prevalent in west London,” she says. “Many of my neighbours have lived here for decades. There’s a real sense of belonging and history here. Because of that, I don’t get really excited over the next new hyped restaurant and prefer places with a more informal, neighbourhood feel.”
Her top eateries? “Go west,” she suggests. “I love Sam’s Riverside (order the jalapenos), The Bird in Hand in Brook Green and Reun Thai, a Hammersmith place that’s been going for years – the food is incredible. For special occasions, The River Cafe is somewhere everyone should visit – it’s insanely beautiful and the food is amazing. Somehow it manages to retain a local feel too.”
Don’t overlook smaller pop-ups, either, she adds. “For me, London is all about connecting. Martha de Lacey used to run supper clubs at her home in Victoria Park – she’s moved now, but they were legendary. She would pack in 30-plus people for a six-course dinner and I’d often go with friends and family – at one of those meals, my sister announced she was pregnant. That feeling of intimacy inspired what we do at Kindred – trying to recreate that sense of community, connection and belonging.”
In the
With more than 300 live music venues in London, it’s impossible to tick off every gig. But there’s no harm trying, says Anderson, herself a keen singer.
“There’s a real joy in seeing people performing and we’re spoilt in west London with venues like the former Hammersmith – now Eventim – Apollo, Shepherd’s Bush Empire and Bush Hall. We regularly put on live events at Kindred too, which I love.
Ringing in the weekend with team drinks is a ritual Anderson savours. “On a Friday afternoon after a hectic week, my team and I will often grab a drink together and gather on the sofas in The Hall near the fireplace at Kindred, to relax and reflect on the week.
“Our Westbourne G&T is the perfect post-work, pre-dinner indulgence. Made with Martin Miller’s Westbourne Gin (named after his Notting Hill home up the road), it’s mixed with London Essence Co’s pithy and fragrant Pomelo & Pink Peppercorn Tonic Water. Ice cold, refreshing and gently spiced, it’s simple but delicious.”
Music, maestro,
There’s good news, hungry people – many of the city’s top culinary delights don’t require reservations or waiting lists at all.
“I’ve recently moved to Highbury in north London, but before then I lived in west London, at the bottom of Portobello Road,” says Johnston. “As a chef, I leave for work at 7am most weekdays and when I lived west, I’d walk past this Portuguese bakery, Lisboa Patisserie, on Golborne Road. It always had an enormous queue, even at that time, probably because they do the best pastel de nata in London.
“I love it when places do something really well, and pastry is a big passion of mine. I think to be a great chef you need to know the whole kitchen and menu, every aspect of it. I love The Dusty Knuckle, Pophams and Holloway Model Bakery. The latter does a brilliant chocolate and almond croissant – I’m hoping they do something mince pie-flavoured for Christmas!
“Food and drink are definitely tied up in memories for me. A dish can take me back somewhere instantly, which is why London – with its vast array of cafés and restaurants – feels so special.
“Take my favourite London Essence drink, Roasted Pineapple Crafted Soda. It brings on very strong childhood memories – the resting flavour on the palate of golden syrup takes me right back to making flapjacks with my mum.
“I’d probably pair it with a white rum and a touch of mint and if cooking, I’d go for a slow-roasted shoulder of pork with grilled pineapple. Pork and pineapple are a great combination – exactly the type of comfort food you want as the cold weather sets in.”
Baked goods
With over 270 nationalities and about 300 languages spoken, London is the ultimate cultural melting pot. Where would you go to get a taste of that?
“I’m definitely one of those people who loves variety, and you could feasibly eat out somewhere new every day in London,” says Johnston. “I just wish I had the time. Recently I’ve noticed a lot of fusion in restaurants, which I love and do myself – Marcus is a modern British restaurant but takes influences from everywhere.
“I think it’s brilliant that you can go to a classically French restaurant but enjoy an Asian or Indian twist to a dish. It really highlights how open-minded and culturally diverse London is.”
Perone agrees: “While I work at the NoMad hotel, I truly think it’s the best bar in London, with a very distinct East meets West feel. Somebody in pearls and brogues could be sat next to someone with a full sleeve of tattoos – it’s lovely.
“My favourite cocktail at NoMad London is the Clip Joint Cup. Made with London Essence tonic and soda, it’s low ABV and extremely refreshing. With hints of bitter grapefruit, aromatics of mint and the freshness of ginger, it's honestly a great way to start any meal or night out.
“Recently I went to a black tie event with a colleague and we started off with drinks at The Connaught before going to the Guinea Grill pub in Mayfair. Afterwards, we ended up at El Camion in Soho till late. That’s what makes London for me. To pin yourself down to one neighbourhood, vibe or place is to do yourself a huge disservice.”
For Perone, that same adventurous spirit goes for hosting too: “Growing up as an Italian-American New Yorker, I’ve been experimenting with food for as long as I can remember. I definitely get the most excitement from branching out, and I love recreating dishes at home thanks to London’s awesome markets.
“You can pick up everything: European food, African cuisine, American wines, Japanese delicacies. I always serve guests London Essence Blood Orange & Elderflower Tonic Water when hosting. It’s become a real staple. I love that it’s a London drink and something visiting friends or family will associate with a special trip and moment in time.”
London is like
Raising the barre
Exploring London
by foot keeps ballet dancer Ryoichi Hirano on his toes
Counter productive
Chef Craig Johnston knows where to find the city’s best dishes
London, we love you
Capital
Hit the roof
The rooftop Piazza bar at the Royal Opera House is one of Hirano’s favourite places in the city
Shining stars
The Royal Observatory in Greenwich can offer uninterrupted calm, says Hirano
Where to find your winter flavour
Community centre
Anna Anderson values the city’s supper clubs and homely spots
Gothic Bar
Il Borro
K Bar
The Coral Room
108 Bar
The Zetter
Shoreditch Arts Club
The Pine Bar
Corrigan’s
Pergola Paddington
Jin Bo Law
Royal Opera House
Cubanista
Mama Shelter
Bar Ochre
Gothic Bar
With its gorgeous Venetian palazzo-style setting, Gothic Bar is a reinterpretation of the classic cocktail bar for a discerning modern audience.
From the beautiful valley in Arezzo to the vibrant dining scene in London, this is a slice of Tuscany and a true farm-to-table concept serving dishes made with seasonal ingredients.
Il Borro
The exterior of the Grade II listed Bloomsbury Hotel makes way for The Coral Room’s opulent interior, which matches the punch of its cocktails. Come for small plates and afternoon tea, and round it all off with your favourite serve.
The Coral Room
The oak panels, polished brass accents, mirrored walls and slate flooring frame classic cocktails mixed by the immaculate staff. K Bar has the sophisticated atmosphere of a modern gentleman’s club, with a unique dining menu.
K Bar
Enjoy the buzz of Marylebone Lane while savouring cocktails that draw inspiration from the seasons, nestled away in this charming bar.
108 Bar
An elegant 24-bedroom Georgian townhouse and cocktail lounge in a trendy central London location. The Zetter Marylebone is fuelled by a passion for super cocktails and sensational parties.
The Zetter Marylebone
Emulating the decor of an art collector’s home, and with a bar led by award-winning mixologist Walter Pintus, this creative, curious spot is a place where all forms of art coexist.
Shoreditch Arts Club
Situated inside The Biltmore Mayfair Hotel, this seductive and sophisticated bar is home to perfectly mixed bespoke cocktails to be sipped in an atmosphere of modern elegance and glamour.
The Pine Bar
Corrigan’s is a triumph for the senses. Its menu is reflective of the seasons and the thoughtfully sourced ingredients and tipples here are as good as the postcode.
Corrigan’s Mayfair
You’ll be spoilt for choice at this expansive and bright foresty retreat in the heart of the city. This light-filled space is an adult playground, where you can enjoy food and drinks to boot.
Pergola Paddington
Synonymous with elegance, excitement and an unforgettable experience, this rooftop oasis seamlessly blends time-honoured Asian cultural inspiration with modern sophistication.
Jin Bo Law
Home to The Royal Ballet, The Royal Opera and the Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, this venue brings together the world’s most extraordinary artists and cocktails with unrivalled views.
The Royal Opera House
A hidden Cuban cocktail bar in Kensington? Just slip behind the red telephone box and you’ll discover tropical cocktail perfection at this hidden gem with a distinct holiday vibe.
Cubanista
Delicious cocktails and the beat of live music sessions is Mama’s vibe. This is a family affair, offering a dynamic space to come together to eat, drink and be merry.
Mama Shelter
Take a trip to The National Gallery on London’s renowned Trafalgar Square and indulge in Ochre’s signature drinks at the buzzing cocktail bar.
Bar Ochre
letters
on foot
Food and drink
are definitely tied up
in memories for me.
A dish can take me back somewhere instantly
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An interactive bar guide
a local
different perspective
I love it when places do something really well, and pastry is a big passion of mine
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spaces
neighbourhood
please
on the rise
everywhere at once
Discover more about The London Essence Co’s range of luxury
mixers and sodas at
londonessenceco.com
Ginger cracker
The NoMad’s Clip Joint Cup features London Essence Club Soda & Indian Tonic
Sublime mixer
Kindred’s Westbourne G&T uses Pomelo & Pink Peppercorn Tonic Water
on every corner
Connecting the dots
Christopher Perone loves roaming the city on foot
Find your flavour with our interactive guide to some of London’s best bars to enjoy this winter
Explore the many
layers of London
Jin Bo Law
Find your flavour with our interactive guide to some of London’s best bars to enjoy this winter
Click to explore our interactive bar map and discover your flavour
