Just when Londontown has too many restaurants, Audacia London’s CEO has the best filtered list.
I decided to embark on my dream of starting my own brand as a creative outlet for my passion for design and to create a one-stop-shop for traveling, busy, active and modern girls just like me. Having worked in investment banking since I graduated from university six years ago and living in a fast-paced city, means that a lot of my time is spent on the go – whether to or from work, the gym, the airport for work or simply for pleasure. I therefore wanted to start a brand that would appeal to this lifestyle, as it seems to become more and more common.
Born and raised in London to a Thai mother and British father – who are two of the most well traveled people I know – my sister and I grew up traveling and experiencing new places as second nature. That said, the city I live in is one of the greatest in the world – easily taken for granted when you are kept so busy! London has absolutely everything you could ever want from a city (except maybe the weather). We have real, authentic, influences from all over the world – most obvious in the food that is readily available. Not only in restaurants, but also in supermarkets, shops and markets that are enjoyed as much by the different communities themselves as they are by those who can afford to regularly dine out. Also, never given the credit it deserves, is the wonderful transport system we have in London. Easily accessible and wonderfully far-reaching, it’s a revelation for visitors not used to such services.
Finally, the thing I love most about London is the celebration of individuality, and the distinct territories of style. There is the fashion that can be observed pretty much everywhere, but there is too the architecture, public building interiors and exteriors, and the history all of which are in abundance all over the city – free of charge and available to everyone.
Lyle’s
Tea Building, 56 Shoreditch High St, London E1 6JJ, UK (map, website)
Every time I go to Lyle’s, I eat something I’ve never heard of before and every course is a beautifully presented adventure that turns into something amazing! Dinner is a taster menu and set each day based on seasonal ingredients, which are sourced independently from all over the British Isles. With great value, Michelin quality taste, and overall unfussy dining, Lyle’s is always a must visit if I have guests visiting from other parts of the world.
Roka
37 Charlotte St, Fitzrovia, London W1T 1RR, UK (map, website)
I love, love, love sushi and for me it is Roka over Nobu every time! There are four locations in London, but my favorite has to be Charlotte Street for the Shochu lounge downstairs. Think cool chill-out, with comfy chairs and the best part is if you don’t fancy eating in the restaurant you can order food to eat with your drinks in the lounge area. The lamb cutlets and black cod are absolute must-eats!
Dishoom
12 Upper St Martin’s Ln, London WC2H 9FB, UK (map, website)
I order the same thing every time I go to Dishoom and I have to say that it tastes better with each visit! Serving Bombay street food, tapas-style dining, lamb raan, black house daal, and delicious cheese naan, this restaurant serves so many tasty dishes that are simply to die for! Not to mention, they have some really delicious cocktails, too! With many locations throughout the city, it’s also a great breakfast or brunch spot with an Indian twist on breakfast favorites.
Cook Daily
Boxpark, 2-4 Bethnal Green Road, London E1 6GY, United Kingdom (map, website)
Cook Daily serves nothing but no-messing-around vegan bowls of tasty goodness! This is a tiny vegan café in a converted shipping container at Shoreditch Box Park. The menu is quite simply with 15 different “bowls” to choose from, each priced at £9.00 ($11.25). Think various different combinations of veggies, vegan chicken, tofu, brown rice, and quinoa – yummy, wholesome comfort food!
Ottolenghi
287 Upper St, London N1 2TZ, UK (map, website)
The window displays of Ottolenghi are always so beautiful and inviting. With many locations throughout the city, they serve wonderful Mediterranean food with North African and Middle Eastern influences. Think big bowls of gorgeous salads, baked goods, cakes and desserts. Perfect for a Sunday lunch or tea.
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Article written by Lisa, CEO of Audacia London.
