If it’s Tuesday, it has to be all about food. In honor of Wimbledon and summer vacations, I shall bypass fish and chips and recommend some fabulous food in London. Note: London has their version of Open Table called, Top Table, (toptable.co.uk) so book ahead.
One of the most colorful and fun dining experiences is Borough Market located at 8 Southwark Street in London, right next to the London Bridge tube station. It is one of the largest outdoor markets in the world, selling a gigantic variety of delectables. The stalls are beautifully decorated and accented by yummy artisan products, bakery, dairy, fish, seafood, fruits, vegetables, British-reared meats, international food and wines. Stroll the aisles and sample the food. It is a terrific lunch stop. Borough Market is open Thursday-Saturday…try to visit on a Thursday when it is less crowded.
Meanwhile, Bethnal Green, which is situated in the urban landscape of East London, is home to one of the most unique restaurants I have ever experienced. Viajante (Portuguese for traveler) is an amazing and eclectic restaurant, situated only 30 minutes via-tube from central London. You have a choice of 6 (78 English pounds), 9 (90 English pounds), or 12 courses (185 English pounds). Plan on dining all evening. They also have a bargain 3 course lunch at 35 pounds. The service is very professional and they accommodate all dietary requirements and tailor menus to individual needs. Each night showcases an ever changing blind tasting menu. They even serve an unparalleled bread course. Viajante is a Michelin star restaurant. Hail a taxi home as after dark and a bottle(s) of wine, Bethnal Green is a bit funky.
Check out Season at The Fifth Floor at Harvey Nichols for lunch. Indulge in retail therapy and then relax at the open and lovely restaurant where pricing is reasonable, especially for Knightsbridge. During the summer, you can dine outdoors. Featured on the menu are fresh fish and hamburgers, delicious omelets and smoked salmon.
For a classic and refined British tradition, dress in a dignified manner, (nix the sweats and running shoes) and perambulate over to Claridge’s for high tea. Freshly baked scones and dollops of clotted cream highlight teatime.
For a healthy high tea, try Brown’s Hotel’s Tea-Tox, low fat, low carb, sugar free treats which are delicious. Try the sugarless chocolate cup with yogurt and berries.
If you are abroad with children have a fun high tea at Sanderson Hotel’s, Mad Hatter Tea. The hotel decor is a trip, as well. They also serve the traditional scones and clotted cream along with other frivolous, themed items.
If your preference is a less formal and less expensive outing, try high tea at the newly refurbished Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon at Fortnum and Mason on the 4th floor. There is a pianist to entertain while you sip your tea with pinkie’s up.
If you are lucky enough to score a ticket to Wimbledon, make sure to imbibe the pink champagne, fresh strawberries and clouted cream…point, set, match. Cherrio, pip, pip…have a loverly time!
