London Favorites

London will always be so near and dear to my heart, it is truly my home away from home.  I thought I would share [just a few] of my London favorites thus far...

Breakfast

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Millfields Coffee// Pastries, eggs, cappuccinos… need I say more?  Millfields has a great casual atmosphere.  Lovely spot for catching up with friends or getting some last-minute work done.  When there isn’t time for a proper breakfast, their cardamom pastries are BOMB to grab and go.  The coffee shouldn’t be passed up either.  It’s my favorite local spot. 

Fabrique// There are a few locations and I’ve only visited the one in Seven Dials.  Great spot to grab… a cardamom bun.  They are quite delicious. 

The English Rose// So if you are touring around Buckingham Palace (walkable from there) and need a place to grab a light meal, this place checks off all the quintessential British boxes!  This place is very tiny and super cute, with mismatched kettles and teacups spread throughout the café.  Not lacking in charm, the café also has great desserts and salvations for that midafternoon craving.  I’d say grab a cake and a tea and be on your way!

Dinner

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Berners Tavern// A MUST.  The ambiance is just amazing and the décor makes you want to sit and sip cocktails for hours.  That’s another thing… their cocktails are AMAZING.  My personal favorite was the recent winter concoction called the BT Winter Cup, containing Hendricks Orbium, Blueberry Rosemary Shrub, Honey Thyme, Lemon and Cynar.  I could honestly have sipped this all night… and would go back just for the cocktail. From the beginning of my meal, straight through dessert, it was quite the delectable experience.  Get the flaming Alaska dessert!

Daphne’s// For an upscale meal, head here.  The restaurant is grouped off in different rooms, which allows for a cozy setting, whilst still maintaining its glamour.  Daphne’s is great for a grand Italian meal, and a wonderful selection of wines.  The scallops with chili and garlic were amazing and I would order them again.  Of course, I don’t go to dinner without trying a dessert and I was not disappointed with my chocolate tarte. 

Coffee

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Monmouth// Great location in Seven Dials… small shop, but love it for a grab and go situation.  When I’m in the area I always make a point to stop in. 

Museums

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V&A// The museum itself is a work of art.  First of all, it is massive and to get the full experience plan to spend a few hours, to a day, to possibly a few visits (seriously). Another more beautiful thing about the V&A, it’s free... so just anticipate paying for some special exhibitions.  Visiting on a sunny, warm day is nice, because they have a beautiful courtyard to hangout in the center of the museum.  Great selection of modern, classic art (and everything in between).  You can find something for all interests. 

The National Gallery// The national gallery, as of right now, is my favorite, for a few reasons.  Even with all my travels to/ living in London, I still get goosebumps when I see iconic London spots, and Trafalgar Square will ALWAYS be one of those spots.  The building and location are just iconic.  The interior of the museum, made up of beautiful Victorian rooms, is just as grand as the outside.  The collection of paintings is insane.  If I only had time for one museum during a trip to London this would be my choice.