Curator’s statement
London has always felt like a bit of a second home to me. Growing up, I'd hop on a train from Paris a couple of times a year, and now, from Amsterdam, it's just as easy to swing by for a long weekend. After living in New York City, I sometimes miss that high-energy city vibe, and London definitely brings a bit of that buzz back. The city's always popping — whether it’s the live theater scene or just the sheer vibe of the place, there’s always something going on.
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Day 1: Arrive in London
My London journey began with a smooth metro ride straight from London City airport to Kettner's in Soho, my preferred spot when I'm in town for work. I settled in and then ventured out to the Quality Chop House in the city for dinner — cozy and welcoming, their steaks but also their other dishes are simply top-notch, ideal for a relaxed first evening.
Day 2: Catch an exhibition
Friday was kept low-key, balancing work with leisure. Started the day with coffee at Monmouth Coffee in Covent Garden. Then headed out to the David Hockney show, over in East London. Any other exhibitions are always good to check out on a weekday (less crowded!), especially if it's a bit drizzly. It’s a wholesome way to spend an afternoon. For dinner, I grabbed a burger at Shake Shack in Covent Garden. Having loved these when I lived in NYC, I can’t help but indulge whenever I get the chance. I capped off the day with an evening at Burnt City, a fantastic immersive theater experience. If you're a theater kid at heart like me, catching a play or a musical here is absolutely essential.
Day 3: Explore Marylebone
I kicked off the day with a delicious Mexican brunch at Cavita in Marylebone. I spent the rest of the afternoon wandering through this charming neighborhood — perfect for a leisurely exploration. For dinner, I headed to Paradise, a brilliant Sri Lankan restaurant in Soho. The vibe was lively and the food unforgettable, truly capturing the essence of a perfect Saturday night in London.
Day 4: Enjoy a Sunday roast
I enjoyed a Sunday roast at The Cleveland Arms, a quintessential British experience that set the tone for a cozy, unhurried day. Post-lunch, I enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the Brick Lane vintage market in East London, always a favorite for its eclectic charm and treasure trove of finds. The evening wound down at St. John Bread and Wine in Spitalfields, where the setting was relaxed and the food hearty, wrapping up the day with a sense of contentment.
Day 5: Leisurely last day
I indulged in a big, leisurely breakfast in bed at Kettner's — such a wonderful way to start the day. Then, I took a leisurely walk around the city to soak in a bit more of its vibe and enjoy some fresh mochis. I made sure to stop by Monmouth Coffee in Covent Garden to pick up some coffee beans to bring back a bit of London with me. Feeling refreshed and fulfilled, I headed back to Amsterdam to continue the birthday celebrations with my friends.
Additional days
On my last visit, I started with dinner at The Guinea on my first night, which set a fantastic tone for the trip. One evening was spent at Manteca in Shoreditch, exploring innovative Italian dishes. And of course, a visit wouldn't be complete without tea at the Covent Garden Hotel, a spot I've loved since childhood, filled with nostalgia.
Need to know
For more experiences and dining options that you might love during your visit to London, here’s a list of places and activities to consider beyond those mentioned in my travel diary:
Cultural spots:
National Theatre exhibitions: Check out the free exhibitions. It’s a great spot to pop into if you’re around.
Saatchi Gallery: Currently hosting ''As We Rise: Photography from the Black Atlantic'', it's a fantastic place where contemporary art comes alive, offering fresh perspectives and bold exhibitions that ignite the imagination.
Frameless: Dive into the digital art world at this immersive experience.
Tate Modern & Tate Britain: Always a good choice for contemporary and historical art.
TateBritish Library: Ideal for a quieter, intellectually stimulating afternoon.
Design Museum: Perfect for design lovers wanting to explore cutting-edge design concepts.
Food and drink:
Koba: Affordable and delicious Korean cuisine.
Darjeeling Express: A classic spot for Indian food lovers.
Noble Rot: Wine and shared plates.
Sunday in Brooklyn: Brunch spot known for its mezcal Bloody Mary.
Kol: A unique dining experience.
Akub: A fresh take on Palestinian cuisine.
Sumi: Excellent choice for sushi aficionados.
The OG St John in Smithfield: Highly recommended for an incredible dining experience.
40 Maltby Street: Great spot for wine and casual dining.
Moro: Offers a blend of African and Spanish dishes.
Kappacasein in Borough Market: Famous for its cheese toastie.
Bread Ahead in Borough Market: Don’t miss their doughnuts!
Silk Road: A top pick for Chinese cuisine — expect great food and a unique atmosphere.
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Travel Advisor
Victoria Lechevalier
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to London. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Ciani Rey Walker's guide, Top Five Markets in London for Foodies and Explorers.