Time of Year: Early October. I adored the weather! Light rain one day with rainbows, and blue skies waiting for me the next. Perfect mix of the quintessential UK experience and showing off!
Things to Know: Be rain ready at all times! You probably knew that already. That means a waterproof coat and some waterproof boots. Something that surprised me- reservations were needed at almost every single restaurant. The few slots we left open for last minute dining decisions kind of left us in a momentary rut as everything was completely booked up!
Something kinda groovy I found in London and apparently is only a thing in the UK was a Lager Top – it’s beer topped off with 7up/Sprite (British Lemonade?) – it was… fine. Apparently it’s a good hangover drink!
London calling! Actually London had to call me twice, because if we’re being honest here, I broke one of my own rules and did a quick stop in a major city. I didn’t have time to do anything and attempted to do a lot. But don’t worry, I regrouped. I scheduled more time and hunted down and received a ton amazing recommendations. So with your recs and my constitution for rainy weather and beer, London has become one of my favorite cities!
If London was your friend personified, it’s your friend with a huge personality, truly, one of a kind, that is a history buff, a fantastic drinker, enjoys the arts and loves butter. What a guy! I love how the culture is so distinct that from a single photo of the homes, the fashion, the cafes and pubs you know that its London Town. The moment I really felt like I was right where I was supposed to be was when I found myself on a topsy turvy side street, in the rain right after work hours. People were spilling out of their local pub taking over half of the street, pint in hand, cap on head, trench on body, just shooting the shit. It was that “oooOoo, I’m a part of this” moment. It’s that moment when a tourist secretly becomes a local in her head, until she opens her mouth and that not-so-charming Clevelaaand aaaycent comes out.
For any London locals, I know I only cover a sliver of what your city has to offer. I’m no UK pro but I tried to do my best as a visitor. I imagine if someone tried to tackle NYC as a tourist… I’d have my moments where I’d be dubious and interject with “the best pizza spot is ACTUALLY…(I’ll answer this question eventually)”. With that being said, please comment if there are some MUSTS for my next visit! London is huge and there’s so much to offer. Note – I love British food! So tell me where to find the ultimate fish and chips, meat pies, local beer… and don’t forget Indian food!
Here’s my list!
B.A.LOCAL with ESKIMOVES – Restuarants, Bars and Pubs
The Granadier – Tipped off by a local Londoner about this cozy bar located on a beautiful quiet dead-end street, lined with what seemed to be embassy housing. The pub was originally built in the 1700s as a mess hall for the Foot Guards barracks. Finding it is a little bit of an adventure! I would recommend making a reservation if you want to sit at a table rather than the bar.
Hoppers SoHo – Sri Lankan food with their signature dish being a hopper – a savory crepe with a soft egg in the middle. No reservations and often times a lengthy wait. We went right when they opened and got a seat. Entire GF menu for those that need it!
Hawksmoor Seven Dials – I was looking for the best steakhouse in London and this location popped up on several lists. It was SO delicious. Amazing meat and creamed spinach. Very lively crowd. Reservations required.
Kiln – A friend of mine recommended this Thai restaurant claiming it as one of their favorite meals ever. Hard to pass up something wearing that medal. As far as Thai food goes, truly one of the best meals I have ever had. I actually still crave it back in NYC. They don’t mess around with spice either which I love! We sat at the bar which was cool because you can see them cook right in front of you over the wood fire and clay pots. They also have seated options in the back where I think you can make a reservation. The bar has very limited seating so I would be prepared for a wait if you go at peak hours.
Gordon’s Wine Bar – A great spot to go to if you find yourself near Trafalgar Square. Considered to be the oldest wine bar in all of London! It’s first come first serve. There are outdoor seating options but I would recommend trying to snag a seat inside of the vaulted cellar. It’s all candlelit and the walls are cave like and so is the smell. The place is packed and you’ll undoubtedly remember your first wine and cheese experience at Gordon’s. If you come to the store front that says Gordon’s and looks boarded up and closed, you’re in the right spot, just keep going around the corner! Photo from @GordonsWineBar
The Marquis of Westminster – The local pub with the classic British food we were looking for.
Connaught Bar – ££££, but what’s ONE drink? I happened to be sipping on my Martini, that was made to match my obviously exquisite taste directly at my table, when they were rated the #1 bar in the world, again! The bar is gorgeous, their bathrooms are gorgeous, the staff is gorgeous and so are the clientele that sink into the plush seats with their £19 cocktails. Worth a visit in my opinion.
Meraki – Delicious modern Greek food! There’s also a secret bar/club that opens around 11pm downstairs. Great spot for late weekend dinner and then late night drinks.
Mr. Foggs House of Botanicals – I saw this bar on IG and the interior looked like where a princess fairy would go for cocktails! It was very pretty and nice to stop in for a cocktail. I think it’s a tourist spot but hey, that’s what I am!
Dishoom – One of the more popular Indian restaurant in London with numerous locations. My personal preference is the Kensington or Shoreditch location. Can’t go wrong, just order anything off the menu!
Churchill Arms – Iconic pub with a gorgeous interior and one of the most photogenic corners in London! I did not make it, sadly.
B.A.TOURIST with ESKIMOVES
Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) – A museum that houses millions of pieces – literally! There’s all kinds of chachkas and important pieces here and you can spend hours, even days, exploring. I would recommend googling most note worthy pieces in V&A museum and going on a little scavenger hunt. The admission is free so we actually ended up coming back here twice.
Borough Market – I love a market/bazaar no matter how busy it gets. I was told Padella is the best pasta restaurant in London, I went to go sit and they told me they’re booked up for the next 4 hours. If you want to eat here go right when it opens to put your name in! If you don’t get lucky with Padella, find the cheese/leek toastie spot – that was one of the best things I have EVER eaten. We also bought some cheese to fry at home, as if that was necessary.
Tate Modern – After the market, head to Tate Modern! Wonderful modern art museum. Check out if there are any exhibits during your visit and take advantage of the rooftop views.
The Shard – After Tate Modern, head over to The Shard (buy tickets in advance for sunset time slot). This is a new observation deck that gives you a 360 degree view of London from 95 stories up!
Portobello Road/ Notting Hill – Portobello road, located in Notting Hill, is home to the vintage stores and pretty pastel colored buildings! I could walk around Notting Hill for hours looking at the beautiful buildings – MAX. CHARM.
Kensington Gardens – located in Hyde Park. London’s commitment to providing parks and nature all over is something that really made me fall in love with the city. There are dozens of parks and if you happen to find yourself in the Kensington Gardens strolling along the rose gardens to the pond filled with the Queens’ Swans, I’ll be damned if you don’t fall in love with it either!
Churchill War Rooms – Something I didn’t have time to do myself but I heard this is a very fun and interesting exhibit.
GIFT IDEAS by ESKIMOVES
When I think of London I think of classic looks like peacoats, trench coats, loafers and hats. I brought back hats from the iconic British Hat Maker, Christy’s. They’ve been in business since the 1700s. It’s the perfect bit of London charm to bring home with you.