London, one of the most-visited cities in the world with nearly 19 million arrivals in 2023, never fails to impress its guests and leave them with unforgettable memories. We had the chance to re-discover London for 48 hours and try London’s hottest restaurants, indulge in the iconic Brown’s Hotel, and embark on lavish shopping sprees. Read on this coveted London edit if you wish for an indelible visit.
Where to Dine
Buns From Home
London’s food scene is to die for, so we decided to take you on a dusk-till-dawn food trip to depart this bustling city with a stated appetite. You shouldn’t miss Buns From Home, one of the busiest bakeries with many locations around London, make sure to grab an on-the-go cinnamon or cardamom bun.
Saltie Girl
LA-born Saltie Girl in Mayfair offers an indulgent brunch by redefining classic dishes through an elevated seafood twist, featuring sustainably sourced ingredients. Standout items include lobster in place of chicken and waffles, caviar-topped eggs benedict and scrambled eggs, and a caviar-infused Bloody Mary. The restaurant’s captivating blue frontage and sea-inspired interiors add a lively energy to North Audley Street. Brunch is only served on Sundays, and reservations are highly recommended.
Sketch: The Gallery
Devouring an unforgettable afternoon tea escapade? Sketch’s Gallery is your go-to place. The Gallery offers a whimsical and elegant afternoon tea odyssey with a charming sunshine yellow furniture setting surrounded by copper walls designed by British-Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare CBE and architect India Mahdavi. Guests relish a splendid variety of teas including the signature Sketch blend and artfully presented treats, from flawless finger sandwiches to stunning pastries like raspberry and pistachio choux and lemon and yuzu tarts.
The Cove Club
You can’t leave London without having dinner at the The Cove Club, a two Michelin stars restaurant, located in Shoreditch’s old town hall. Since its opening in 2013, it has made frequent appearances on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list which puts its patron chef Isaac McHale on the forefront of London’s fine-dining scene. McHale is famous for pre-dinner snacks such as the delicate crab dumplings but his most Instagrammable dish is the buttermilk fried chicken, enhanced with aromatic pine salt and served in a magical presentation nested within leafy branches.
Where to Shop
Old and New Bond Street
Shopping on Bond Street offers a quintessential luxury experience, exuding elegance and opulence. The grand boulevard, lined with historic buildings, creates an atmosphere adorned with sophistication and refinement with acclaimed fashion houses like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Gucci, alongside esteemed jewelers such as Cartier, Mikimoto, and Tiffany & Co. The street also boasts a remarkable array of skin care brands including Rituals which offers a wide selection of products from sumptuous body creams and aromatic candles to luxurious bathrobes and teas. Rituals of personalized service and meticulously designed space elevate this boutique from a mere shop to an all-encompassing sensory haven. Bond Street caters to the most discerning shoppers whether you are seeking timeless classics or the latest trends, this enchanting street provides an unparalleled shopping quest where luxury and tradition meet in a harmonious blend.
Knightsbridge
Never miss paying a visit to one of London’s most eminent neighborhoods, Knightsbridge, located south of Hyde Park and northwest of Belgravia. There is never a dull moment around Knightsbridge, you can embark on a lavish shopping spree on Brompton Road and pay the world-famous department store Harrods a visit to enjoy its opulent interiors and wide range of high-end offerings from beauty and fashion to gourmet food. Finish up your Harrods haul and walk for 5 minutes to reach the fashion-forward department store Harvey Nichols which includes renowned cutting-edge brands and a fine restaurant selection on the fifth floor. If you shopped till you dropped and want a quick flavor of London’s rich history and art scene, you’ll find Natural History and Victoria & Albert museums just around the corner on Cromwell Road.
Covent Garden
Finish your shopping extravaganza by stopping at Covent Garden. Stroll down James Street to be encountered by the North Piazza and the acclaimed Market building. Savor an alfresco brunch in one of the restaurants spread across the Piazza but don’t forget to do some last-minute shopping on Floral and King Streets. Floral Street encompasses brands like Free People, Diptyque, and A.P.C. while King Street boasts an exquisite variety of brands including Aesop, Glossier, Jo Malone, Ba&sh, and Sandro.
Where to Stay
The Brown’s Hotel
One of the most prestigious and historical addresses in London Town is The Brown’s Hotel. Brown effortlessly marries elegance with comfort, embodying an ethos of discretion and discernment. This commitment to refined hospitality allows its guests to partake in the timeless traditions that have distinguished Brown’s as an impeccably graceful yet approachable sanctuary since its inception in the 1830s.
Located in the heart of Mayfair, Brown’s neighbors are some of London’s most prestigious boutiques, esteemed designers and most sought-after dining spots. Prominent landmarks like Buckingham Palace, Piccadilly Circus, and Hyde Park, as well as the bustling department stores of Oxford Circus, are all conveniently within walking distance.
There are two distinct dining affairs at Brown’s. Charlie’s, the main restaurant showcases the best of British cuisine in a polished yet relaxed ambiance curated by Michelin-starred chef Adam Byatt. For a more casual vibe The Donovan Bar, named after the renowned photographer Terrence Donavan, serves expertly crafted cocktails with chic and vintage surroundings.
The Spa is the ultimate place to wind down and relax. Walk into this serene oasis and luxuriate in the range of services, from therapeutic messages to revitalizing facials which are all specifically tailored to elevate your well-being and sense of calm. Irene Forte Skincare is the spa’s signature product which is used by a team of specialists to guarantee you a soul-nourishing botanical extravagance.
