Shop London

Description:

The two main reasons to shop in this area have to be Harvey Nichols and Harrods. Dominated by chic boutiques and expensive restaurants and cafes, ladies who lunch and It girls in slick sports cars haunt Brompton Cross, King's Road, Kensington High Street, Sloane Street and its environs. It's worth noting that the further you go towards Earl's Court, the more affordable the stores become until you're spoiled for choice between a host of popular high street chains. Visit Knightsbridge and Belgravia for designer shops and impressive labels, or head towards Kensington for more affordable wardrobe essentials.

Our Local Expert Says:

The food halls are not to be missed; sample an English afternoon tea at the Georgian Restaurant on the top floor.

Description:

"The Corner Shop", as Knightsbridge locals call it, is probably the most famous store in the world, selling everything from its ubiquitous green-and-gold branded carrier bags (its best selling item) to a 12.5kg solid gold bar, its latest ultimate luxury accessory. It may not have all the latest fashions these days (look opposite in Harvey Nichols to find those) but it's not far behind and for all but the hardest to please shoppers it's usually a great experience. Harrods began on its present site in 1849 as a small grocer's shop. These days 15 million customers per year come to explore its 7 floors and 4.5 acres. Don't miss the daily cornucopia in the fabulous Food Halls and return by night to see its famous terracotta façade, illuminated by 13,500 lightbulbs.

Description:

Before it was a restaurant, the site was a garage that repaired the legendary Bluebird, an English sports car that is, alas, no longer produced. Today, this enormous space resounds with clinking silverware and peals of laughter from a loyal clientele. You'll find a color scheme of red-and-blue canvas cutouts in the shape of birds in flight. Tables are close together, but the scale of the place makes dining private and intimate. The massive menu emphasizes savory, precisely cooked cuisine, some emerging from a wood-burning stove used to roast everything from lobster to game. An immense shellfish bar stocks every crustacean you can think of, and the liquor bar does a thriving business with the Sloane Square subculture. Starter temptations include Serrano ham with fresh tomato tostados or chopped steak tartare, perhaps wild mushrooms on brioche. We're fond of the venison shank in a bitter chocolate sauce (don't knock it until you've tried it). You might also try the lamb with lentils and cepe mushrooms.

Our Local Expert Says:

Take a break from all that shopping on King's Road. Perfect for casual tea, lunch, or a little something sweet.

Description:

If you're on the go and need a quick bite, hop right into Munch Cafe. Located in the Chelsea neighborhood, this bright and roomy brasserie offers modern café fare. Select from the menu a light-hearted breakfast or come by to munch on some home-made cakes, pastries and ice creams. For lunch, you can choose between charcuterie, pastas, salads or various grills. So the next time you're passing by, you know where to stop!

Description:

Tom's is a charming, small deli-cum-cafe, courtesy of Tom Conran - Terence's son. Tom's is a classic Notting Hill breakfast and brunch hang-out with relaxed, cosy, hip vibes. Come in and grab a healthy yet delicious sandwich, speciality and gourmet crisps or a savoury tartlet to go. If you have an hour to spare, linger over a hot dish in the mezzanine cafe, but get there early because it's always full. Try a fruit smoothie and get hooked. The great news is Tom's is now open for supper during the week. Downstairs, the delicatessen sells cheeses, caviars, olives - the lot. And there are lots of sweet things to tempt you by the till.

Our Local Expert Says:

It's a shopper's must do

Description:

Since 1837 Portobello Road has hosted a market of some sort or another. Made famous by the movie Notting Hill, the market will not disappoint despite attracting serious crowds. Known prodominently for antiques found at the south or Notting Hill Gate end of the market, there are several sections worth a peak although finding a bargain might be an option. After the antiques, jewelery and souevnirs the market thins as people bail out on Westborne Grove, but keep going and you'll find colourful fruit & veg stalls and mouth watering street food vendors. The third section is fashion, both new and second hand, which extends along the street under the motorway. Don't forget to go behind the stalls where you'll find nifty little shops. Oh and don't forget to take a camera!

Our Local Expert Says:

When you tire of the crowds in the central area, explore the interesting and bohemian little streets and alleyways leading off Covent Garden, particularly those around Neal's Yard and Monmouth Street

Description:

Sheltered beneath a beautiful Victorian iron-and-glass arcade that once held England's largest fruit and vegetable market are the shops and restaurants that make up the heart of Covent Garden. Its famous piazza is the only area of London licensed for street entertainment and all performers are required to audition before they are allowed to perform. Buskers such as magicians, statues, opera singers, musicians, and jugglers perform for your enjoyment and in return you give them a bit of money. There's a nice buzz to the piazza and surroundings. It is always a child favorite even if it is quite touristy. Sample a freshly baked treat from Ben's Cookies or a Cornish pasty while people watching the entertainers. The market is perfect for souvenir shopping but be warned, at peak times it gets uncomfortably busy.