As an expat in London for almost two years now, one of my most delightful discoveries has been seeing how decked out the city gets at Christmas time. From the most incredible twinkling lights breathing excitement into prominent shopping streets, to massive Christmas trees in iconic squares, here are a few highlights from my recent festive jaunts around London.
If you like fresh and healthy greek food in the form of sharable small plates, you’re in luck. I recently discovered Opso in Marylebone and am now smitten. Between a vibrant atmosphere, innovative cocktails with greek liquors and a wide range of sharable small plates, Opso ticks off many boxes.
Opso is located in Marylebone and its inspiration comes from its name, which means, “a delectable morsel of food, a delicacy.” The restaurant serves breakfast/weekend brunch, lunch and dinner. I went recently for dinner and a drink at the bar. Here’s what I ordered.
I often write about the fabulous local coffee shops in London, but Yumchaa stands out for having both great coffee and tea – among other menu offerings.
I discovered Yumchaa after massive hunger pangs struck upon departing a meeting in the Tottenham Court area. Delighted to see whole wheat pistachio scones and an abundance of tea offerings, I was a very happy camper.
In my household, Sunday evening’s are made for cooking. I – almost obsessively – read food blogs and curate my personal e-mail inbox around recipes. This includes recipes I plan to try and recipes that I’ve tried and vetted. Naturally, categories are involved by recipe type. It’s a bit OCD….and I love it.
One of my recent finds comes from a Vegan blog that I enjoy – Kathy’s Healthy Happy Life. While I’m not a vegan, I believe in the health benefits in balancing my meals with vegetables. Sometimes, I also go for a completely vegetarian or vegan option – like these Sweet Potato and White Bean Veggie Burgers.
Just off of Portobello Road in Notting Hill is a basement level gem of a tiki bar called Trailer Happiness. While the name could be misleading, it’s actually a charming little place and perfect for a fun weekend night out.
The atmosphere is lively – meaning, expect loud music and conversation to match. While there are some tables (first-come, first-served), the small size means that people also mingle throughout.
Described as offering, “classic and original cocktails with a tiki twist,” the drinks have fun names like Polynesian Princess, with Finlandia vodka, homemade watermelon syrup, citrus and champagne and Port Light, banana infused Woodford Reserve Bourbon agave citrus with a Trailer grenadine float.
Polynesian Princess