January has been a great month for me on a personal level: I rang in the new year in New Zealand, a country I’ve wanted to visit for as long as I can remember, and I moved into my first flat in London, ready to start a new phase of my life. Bizarrely I made the move with one of my oldest friends; it’s been great to see so much of David when we’ve spent the last 4 years in different countries!
I know I still haven’t shown you all the gorgeous homeware that I’ve decorated my house with yet, but I promise that’s coming up next month! I’ve essentially been raiding The White Company sale (and bits of their new collection) and I have my eye on some bargains in the Zara Home sale for this weekend when mum’s visiting me in London.
The Foodie
I have to say my inner foodie has been a little spoiled this month, even though I’m trying to be much better about eating well. Well, I’ve eaten well when I’ve been at home! David and I had our first flat brunch at Tart, Clapham; a great little cafe that’s perfect for a lazy brunch or a delicious coffee.
I caught up with some of my girlfriends last night at The Lodge, Clapham, for some fondue, giggles and general excitement at seeing each other. If you’re a fondue lover you’ll be pleased to know the The Lodge isn’t just a pop-up anymore – it’s hanging around for a while!
The start of February sees Chinese New Year being celebrated and in anticipation of this wonderful event David and I headed to one of my favourite restaurants in London, Yauatcha Soho to try their delicious Chinese New Year menu. I’ll be sharing all the delicious details next week, but for now it suffices to say that if you can get yourself a table here then it’s definitely worth a visit!
The Riding House has been on my list for a long time and yesterday I made it, at last, but only for a cup of coffee. After seeing the gorgeous interiors I really want to go back for brunch soon.
Finally, you couldn’t let January go by without a mention of Burns’ Night and this year I whipped up a super simple whisky and honey loaf cake to help you all celebrate. Someone said it was the best cake they had ever had – which made my year so far!
About Town
Mr Fogg’s has played quite a role in my January as I’ve managed to visit both of his abodes! I visited his Mayfair residence for a lovely catch up with Mina, Angie, Aftab, Emma, Suze and met Yannick for the first time. It was great to hear what everyone’s been up to in their blog lives as well as their personal lives and to hear about everyone’s recent adventures.
I also finally managed to pay a visit to Mr Fogg’s Tavern for a libation and a pie. It’s a dangerously good spot in Covent Garden that I know will become a regular on my hit list.
January has been great for a little me time, too. I indulged in a facial from the incredible Abigail James; after just a couple of my days and a whole new skincare routine my skin is starting to feel better. I’ve also got a (slightly) new hairstyle from Taylor Taylor, a salon that I’m in love with, which I’m so pleased with.
Festive February
Well February is a big month for me! I’m going back to college as of Monday to start my last six months as a student (eeek!) and it’s my birthday month! So I’m looking forward to lots of celebrations, some great food and even better company.
This month I’m really excited about two restaurant openings: Frenchie, Covent Garden, and 100 Wardour Street, Soho. Frenchie is owned by Gregory Marchand, a chef who has worked in restaurants at The Savoy, Mandarin Oriental and Fifteen and considers London to be his second home. The food here is to be simple and generous, with the dishes influenced by Gregory’s extensive travels.
100 Wardour Street is the latest D&D London venture and looks like a fabulous Soho restaurant and club experience. The Lounge will be open all day and serve everything from breakfast right through to a late night dinner and cocktails, with The Club hosting live music five nights a week and serving some incredible dishes until 2am.
A huge congratulations to Colleen who moves into her new flat today! Hellooo neighbour! I wish you every happiness in your new home and I can’t wait to come and see it when it’s all sorted.