Across the Pond

The Shop at Bluebird in Chelsea

I’m giddy with excitement as I begin my week in London, excited to savor the innovative fashion, cutting-edge design, and old-world charm that makes it one of my favorite cities in the world.  Every trip to London yields new discoveries, whether stumbling upon a new neighborhood lined with chic boutiques, or savoring exotic curries and classic British pub cuisine.  I’d love to hear any must-see spots recommended by readers, so please share… and I promise to give a full report upon my return to the States!  A few new places on my must-see list:

Shops at Bluebird

Housed in a former grocery store, this concept boutique is in a huge warehouse space containing a “gigantic book department brimming with arty volumes, a tech area offering wonders like a backyard swing that emits an increasingly louder laughing sound the higher you go, and tons of offbeat clothing and accessories.” (according to my Lucky Mag city guide.)

Brissi

Brissi in Notting Hill

This shop looks right up my alley, with one-of-a-kind luxury pieces that make a home beautiful & serene.  I can’t wait to get my hands on their linen hemstitched napkins in shades of white & greige, and be inspired their well-edited collection of vintage French furniture.

Portobello Road Market

Teacups at Portobello Road Market

I’ve tried (unsuccessfully) to make it to this world-famous street market on previous trips to London, so I’m bound & determined to set aside an entire Saturday morning to browse vintage duds, fresh produce & flower stands, & antiques treasures just waiting to be found.

Eat

Daylesford Organic

I’ll fuel up for shopping at Daylesford Organic, a cafe & market that boasts everything “organic, fresh, seasonal, & local.”  With vegetables picked straight from their on-site garden, and cheeses made daily in the Creamery, I’m sure I’ll manage to do a little shopping here too, while I eat.  A girl’s gotta multitask!

River Cafe

Interior of the River Cafe in Hammersmith

This seems to be THE foodie destination for those in the know, and I can’t wait to dig into the seasonal Italian menu (with items like wood-roasted sea bass with salsa verde, and veal slow-roasted with sage & garlic… yum!) while gazing at a gorgeous view of the Thames.

See

Tate Modern, Futurism Exhibition

Interior of Tate Modern; Poster from Futurism Exhibition

The Tate Modern is truly one of my favorite museums in the world, both for its breathtaking design and its cutting-edge art installations & exhibitions.  I’ll catch the tail end of the current Futurism exhibition.  A little background from the museum: “Drawing upon elements of Divisionism and Cubism, the Futurists created a new style that broke with old traditions and expressed the dynamism, energy and movement of their modern life.”  This exhibit celebrates the centenary of the movement.

West End Theatre

I’m going to be a bit spontaneous here, and check out what shows are available for last-minute tickets.  I love a night at the theater, and we’ll end it with a cozy meal at a British pub… fish & chips, anyone?