Dear readers,
In this edition, I’m excited to share a city that feels like my sanctuary—London, a place I lovingly consider my second home. For me, London isn’t just a destination; it’s a vibrant melting pot of cultures, creativity and most importantly, incredible food. It’s where I go to slow down, reconnect, and immerse myself in a world that effortlessly blends the historic and the contemporary. A place where I get inspired. Whenever life feels a bit too fast-paced, I find myself drawn to London’s unique charm.
What I love most about London is its layers. Beneath the iconic landmarks and postcard-perfect scenes, there’s a soulfulness in its cobblestone streets, its eclectic neighborhoods, and the lives that pulse through it. From quiet moments in a cozy café tucked away in London fields to the electric buzz of live music in Camden, or unwinding with a book in Hampstead heath, every corner of London feels alive, offering something unique to every visitor.
As someone who finds joy in exploring cultures through food, London’s incredible culinary diversity holds a special place in my heart. This city feels like a living, breathing map of the world, where you can share a bowl of ramen in Soho, savor Indian curry in East London, or sample freshly shucked oysters at Borough Market. It’s a testament to how food connects us, and London does this effortlessly.
In this guide, I’ll take you to some of my favorite spots—places that have captured my heart as a child (and my appetite). I hope it inspires you to explore, eat, and fall in love with the city just as I have.
Until next time,
Jimmy
Guide by Jimmy Bracken
Eat
Rochelle Canteen
Hidden within an old school with excellent British food. The outdoor garden patio is charming & perfect on a sunny day.
St. John
A culinary icon serving bold, Classic British nose-to-tail cooking done in a modern way. London staple, with a beautiful brass bar. Save room for dessert and take their fresh made-to-order madeleines, thank me later.
Brawn
Delicious refined Italian off of Columbia road, with a superb wine list and offers a casual yet romantic ambiance.
Cafe Cecilia
Where riverside meets, Elevated English food with an Italian twist. Enjoy while overlooking the riverside and do not miss the bread and butter pudding with cold custard, you will regret!
40 Maltby Street
Located under an old train track, which is still in use. Making noise overhead while you eat and drink, some may love it, some may hate it. I love it. Great selection of natural wines.
Miga
If you’re looking for authentic, delicious, flavourful Korean food in London this is the place to go that ticks off all these boxes! From classic Korean dishes to some dishes with a modern twist.
Brat
If you love food cooked over a fire and good wine, this is the perfect cosy restaurant. Brilliant Basque-style food and take the Basque cheesecake to finish off your meal.
Rita’s
Perfect if you’re looking for a charming and cozy place in Soho and feels like you’re having dinner at a friend’s place in some kind of way. The music is light and song choices are always spot on. Great place to go if you enjoy elevated staples with a changing menu! Save some space for desserts as you don’t want to miss out.
Berenjak
Berenjak is one of the must places you have to go to, a celebrity favourite and for a reason! A compact, casual spot for Iranian cooking and offers authentic Persian cuisine specialising in small style sharing plates.
Dim Sum Duck
Be prepared to queue, however, it is worth the wait if you’re into Cantonese comfort food. Get the noodle beef with the egg buns.
Ducksoup
Ducksoup promises an eclectic range of European cuisines served in an intimate and lively setting, sit at their long bar and enjoy their great selection of wines too.
Regency Cafe
Be prepared to queue, but a must must MUST when in London. Untouched, authentic, and classic cafe since 1946 famous for it’s full English. Major + for the fast service!
Norman’s Cafe
Another staple for your full English breakfast where they know how to do it right. Stylish cafe, without being pretentious.
Beppe’s Cafe
Cozy and classic spot for breakfast and sandwiches served at a counter, good British vibe.
Ye Ye Noodles
A must every time I go to London. Amazing value for your money and the best noodles you’ll find in London. Get the dry beef noodles
Dalla
Real Italian food in a delightful setting with a very minimal and relaxed ambiance.
The Plimsoll
One of the best burgers you will find in London at a local pub in a nice and quiet spot of Finsbury Park. Make sure to also get the aioli potatoes with your burger and top it off with a homely but tasty chocolate dessert.
Baked Goods & Coffee
The Dusty Knuckle
Down a nondescript alley in Dalston, where you’ll find one of the best bakeries in London. Potato bread and the morning bun are a must.
Nagare Coffee
Found just opposite of Spitalfields market, you will have one of the best coffees you will find in London. I recommend going alone and unwinding in the beautiful space while reading your book.
Layla Bakery
After strolling up the street of Portobello market you will encounter Layla Bakery. Order one sweet and one savoury option, I would recommend their seasonal danish and one of the sandwiches. To make the queue more bearable go on a sunny day.
Arôme
A French and Japanese pastry fusion, which will lure you in from afar. Try their honey toast or any other pastry and to compliment your order add a coffee, it is excellent!
Drink
Dukes Bar
Refined and intimate venue known for their excellent martinis. Home of the vesper martini, the best you’ll have in London.
Bar Termini
A small, intimate atmosphere, perfect for a date night in central London. The best negronis you’ll find in London.
Goodbye Horses
Vinyl bar with great music, great food, and great wine. Perfect for intimate dinners or a relaxed night out. Get the oxtail broken rice 🙂
Oranj
A bar that feels hidden in Shoreditch offering delicious orange wine. With a relaxed atmosphere, and great music that isn’t too loud. Great way to start your night here if you’re looking for a snack and a glass of wine.
A Bar with Shapes for a Name
One of the Top 50 World’s Best Bars, and for a reason! Minimalist interior and cocktails that are state of art. With a very friendly and local atmosphere, and feels different than other ‘fancy’ bars and that’s what I love about this bar. Also, don’t be afraid to ask the server for their recommendations, they’re very friendly and helpful.
Spacetalk
A hidden gem in London with great interior, great cocktails, and an incredible sound system! If not one of the coolest bars from a design perspective.
Shop
Climax Books
A true hidden gem in the centre of soho from Isabella Hurley who was Dazed’s editor-in-chief with a beautifully curated space with rare books and magazines with amazing staff who are passionate about their magazines and books.
Record 28 Books
Another beautiful store with a well-designed space where you can find records, and a selection of unreal fashion and art books.
IDEA
A London staple to visit with once again offering a variety of so many rarities from the editorial world, about cinema, fashion, architecture, design. Could spend hours here.
Alex Eagle Studio
Beautifully designed, curated and presented. The homeware, furniture and art are beautifully put together. Nice to browse around.
Levisons Vintage Clothing
Great place to pop by when walking through brick lane with lovely staff who are very knowledgeable about their products ! With a unique selection of authentic army and navy pieces.
Twos
One of my favourite places to go in London. Incredible selection of garments and rare pieces. They have two locations, so make sure to check out both!
West Archive
Owned by a lovely lady who’s passionate about what she does with an insane collection of rare pieces. Nice to browse around, make sure to book an appointment when going.
194 Local
A must-visit when strolling Brick Lane. Think curated American vintage and streetwear.
Files London
Best store to go in London. Owned by a young couple who provided amazing service every time I went. The best collection of clothes you’ll find in London. Can be pricey but a lot of it is fair priced also!
Unknown Archive
Japanese vintage heaven. That’s all I need to say.
Culture
The Cosmic House
This post-modern architectural gem designed by renowned architect Charles Jencks in central London if you’re into art and design is worth visiting. Quirky and different but all ties together beautifully. Could spend hours here, make sure to plan this trip and get tickets on time.
Hopkins House
Tucked along the edge of Hampstead Heath, the Hopkins House is a modernist marvel by architects Michael and Patty Hopkins. Built in the 1970s, this sleek, glass-and-steel structure harmonizes effortlessly with its natural surroundings, showcasing innovative, sustainable design. Though not open to the public, its striking exterior can be admired as part of a scenic walk through Hampstead Heath. A visit to this hidden architectural icon is a perfect way to blend nature & design together.
2 Willow Road
After visiting Hopkins house, visit 2 willow road which you can also find in Hampstead Heath, Ernö Goldfinger’s 1939 modernist home unlike Hopkins house, 2 Willow Road is open to the public. This modernist townhouse stands as a testament to functional yet beautiful design.
Barbican Centre
Right in the heart of London, the Barbican Centre, designed by ‘Chamberlin, Powell and Bon’, is a must-see for culture and architecture fans. This Brutalist gem is packed with theaters, galleries, cinemas, and even a tropical Conservatory. Whether you’re catching a show or just soaking up the vibe, it’s a perfect spot for a unique day out and stroll around. There’s enough to see 🙂
Xx, Aa
P.S. For easier navigation, we made a Google Maps list of this guide.
