The Places I Love

Joni's 08.05.12
“We spent most of this past weekend at Joni's - casual, simple, friendly, healthy - and pretty good coffee too. Something for everyone here - from brown rice and beans to fish tacos and a huge range of breakfast things, juices, smoothies. I think it closes at 4 or 5pm - maybe later in the summer. Good kids menu and usually busy and buzzy - with tables outside too - and a very short stroll to the beach, so it's perfect for picnic food to take out. JW”

Morandi 24.04.12
“Another Keith McNally winner. Buzzy, cosy, popular, good-enough food and considering how busy it was for brunch at the weekend, ridiculously accommodating of three toddlers. McNally does a fabulous job of creating places that feel convivial and happening and just a bit special without being precious. Brunch was particularly yummy too. JW”

Esalen 17.04.12
“I've been wanting to come here for years - and finally we did. And it is paradise. Perched on a cliff on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, the setting must be one of the most beautiful places in the world. And yes, it's hippy and a little ramshackle and attracts all sorts of odd bods, but we had a wonderful time. They run all sorts of courses, but the best thing for us was to just hang out in a beautiful place - gorgeous gardens, walks, yoga, meditation, the sea - to spend ages in the hot spring tubs that are RIGHT on the cliff edge, and have superb massages (they have a massage school there) as you listen to the sound of the ocean. Even the worlds most luxe spas could not compete with Esalen's setting. The food was delicious too - with most of their produce coming from their farm. And Victory (age 2) had a blast. They even have a little outdoor school so babysitting or a day or a week in the school can easily be arranged. Only downside is that it's a fairly long way from NYC or we'd be there all the time. It really is heavenly. JW”

Hawthorne Valley Farm Shop 17.04.12
“We love these guys. We buy their delicious farm produce and breads and their wonderful sauerkraut in the Union Square Greenmarket in NYC, so we were delighted to discover their farm and farm shop upstate. You can also visit the farm and they have a Waldorf school too. Makes me want to go live nearby.”

Cafe Gratitude 16.04.12
“I LOVE this cafe. The food is delicious, the whole vibe is friendly and nourishing - and the story of how it came to be, and the principles on which they run the business are really inspiring. All the food was great and completely vegan and without sugar - but the breakfasts were particularly amazing. I just wish they'd open a branch in NYC - or London for that matter. JW”

Ciao for Now 04.11.11
“Just the sweetest neighbourhood cafe and bakery that is passionately committed to simple wholesome food, local ingredients, fairtrade, community, and all things that go to making me feel good. And it opens early for breakfast - hurrah. There's a branch in the West Village too. JW”

Wiveton Farm 21.08.11
“We had the perfect breakfast here yesterday - a sunny morning, sitting outside on sea-coloured painted furniture looking out across the farm to the ocean in the distance. Victory (nearly 2) happy as a clam running around chasing chickens across the farm, and we were very happy with delicious food (all sorts for breakfast - full English, local kippers, proper happy pig bacon sarnies, scones, jam and cream, or a bowl of muesli with home grown berries and cream etc etc). They're open for lunch and tea too - book well in advance, they are wildly popular - and I'm sure all their food is excellent - the cakes and scones looked scrumptious - and the lunch menu going up on the board looked really good - lots of farm produce and local Englishy type things. They also have Pick Your Own and a little farm shop (THE most delicious figs and strawberries), and do farm garden tours etc. I loved it most for being nicely ramshackle and very home-made and authentic - and I'm thrilled that (a) it exists and (b) it's so busy. Can't wait to go back another time.”

The Field Kitchen @ Riverford Farm 21.08.11
“I am so excited to have discovered this place. Totally my thing - the farm to table set-up - and they've done it very well. Nicely low key - communal tables in a grand shed on the farm - but feels special enough for an occasion as well as relaxed enough to take the kids. And the food is delicious. Open for both lunch and dinner (altho not every day), the menu is a set selection of whatever is available from the farm. The vegetable dishes are the star of the show, but they have meat things too - and with all the dishes served family style at each table, then there is something for everyone - and lots of it. Each little detail was right - from the wonderful bread to the selection of wines and beers (many local) and other drinks - and a spectacular array of proper puddings served with lashings of custard or cream to finish the meal. The communal table set-up made for a jolly evening - and added to the community feel of the whole place. They are deservedly popular so book well in advance.”

The Fat Radish 23.05.11
“"Simple, healthy, delicious dishes created with well-sourced seasonal ingredients" they say - and it was certainly delicious AND a pretty, low-key in a hip way place to spend an evening. Our junk food addict friend was as delighted with his chunky burger and goose fat fries, as we were with our celery root pot pie, and a gorgeous concoction of super-fresh peas, razor clams, ramps and ricotta dumplings. And we loved the laid-back but very comfortable vibe. The menu is roughly British (if you consider humous and pitta and monkfish vindaloo to be part of the British tradition), but very New York too. An instant favourite.”

Eataly 10.03.11
“Oh what joy to have big bold Eataly on our doorstep. Yes, it's (almost) permanently packed (with locals and tourists alike), but it's fun and buzzy, and makes grocery shopping an event. It's HUGE - a collection of eateries scattered within a food 'market' that celebrates all things Italian. it can be a bit overwhelming - but it's full of (mostly) lovely things and has been stylishly enough put together that I can overlook its flaws.

We can vouch for their delicious bread, a good fish market, a huge selection of pastas, oils etc, a spectacular array of cheese and charcuterie and a pretty good produce section. Eating options range from (good) coffee and home made gelato, to a grown-up waiter service meat restaurant. We loved Le Verdure - a casual eatery section that celebrates vegetables and the fish restaurant looks very delicious too. The charcuterie hall offers delicious cheese and charcuterie combinations for consumption propped against a bar - in true italian style. There's also a pizza/pasta eating place, and lots of things to take away - paninis, patisseries, chocolates etc.

There's also a wine shop next door - and a section with italian cookbooks, cooking gizmos and branded Eataly merchandise (of course!). JW”

Le Verdure - Eataly 10.03.11
“We FINALLY got around to actually sitting and eating at Le Verdure in Eataly last week - and very delicious it was too. Very exciting to enjoy vegetable-based food which is about celebrating vegetables rather than excluding other foods - and therefore wasn't remotely 'worthy', and the fact that most of the dishes are vegan is by the by (but very nice for us!).
Everything we tried (except the farro salad, which sadly fell into the dull vegan category), was delicious - fresh, simple dishes, generously seasoned and stylishly put together in that lovely informal Italian way. Graeme has been reluctant to go eat in a 'shop', but actually, for lunch it was fun. Almost like being in Italy in fact.
JW”

Jeffrey's Grocery 26.02.11
“Love the grocery store meets low-key eaterie vibe - and it was perfect for a late post-movie supper. Nice menu of bits - raw bar, cheese, charcuterie, soup, interesting side dishes to share, and some proper knife and fork type dishes too. We sat at the bar and enjoyed the slightly chaotic buzz and very nice food. Local, seasonal, artisanal - the usual ...

JW”

Hung Ry 28.01.11
“"Finest hand-pulled organic noodles" - and they are delicious. A perfect selection of interestingly flavoured noodle soups to suit carnivores and vegetarians - we had the squash, tamarind and vegetable noodles which were yummy - and we shared a totally delicious fried squid with pumpkin seeds and a spicy hot pepper paste. All excellent - and a nice place to be and a buzzy, hip vibe as a bonus.”

The Meatball Shop 16.11.10
“Really fun - even for a vegetarian. Love the vibe and the food is good.”

Torrisi Italian Specialties 16.11.10
“Tiny, welcoming, humble, simple and totally delicious. These guys really care about what they're doing - such a treat. Worth the hassle to get a table.”

French Meadows Macrobiotic Camp 31.07.10
“This camp is heaven on earth - assuming your idea of heaven is living outside in pristine beautiful nature high up in the forest, eating wonderful nourishing food, dropping in and out of various things going on - lectures, cooking classes, hikes, movement classes etc etc - and hanging out with a mixed bag of 'interesting' folk motivated by improving their health, caring for the planet, their spiritual growth - or just enjoying a very special community and a beautiful place.
We loved it - so did the baby - who gleefully grubbed around in the forest, squealed with delight in the mountain stream and loved having other babies and children to hang out with. We came home feeling fantastic and well-fed on every level. Sadly it's only once a year - July usually - for a week or so. A very special experience.”

Madison Square Park 22.06.10
“My local park - lucky me. Especially as I'm there at least once a day these days with the baby. It's not a big park, but the trees are wonderful and it's beautifully maintained and gives me a little feeling of Europe and peace in the middle of crazy NYC. Home to the infamous original Shake Shack (which over-populates one side of the park and overfeeds the most audacious squirrels ever), the park hosts a whole load of things - summer concerts, poetry readings and kids events, weekend baseball coverage and BBQ parties - and currently the magnificent Gormley installation. And amazingly, considering how beautiful it is, there is usually a free spot on a bench or on the lovely Oval lawn to hang out and watch it all going on.”

Momofuku Ssam Bar 11.06.10
“I love this place for it's extraordinary food - and it really is exceptional. But that's it. The place, the vibe, the attitude I can live without - unless I'm in the mood for eating in a nightclub. I'm wondering when we can go when the ambiance is a little more conducive to the deliciousness of the food, but maybe that's just us ...”

The Standard Rooftop Bar 11.06.10
“At last I've found my perfect 'welcome to New York' or just 'oh yes, this is my city' spot. Spectacular views aside, there's plenty to admire inside too - love love love the server's uniforms - and a nice way to feel glamourous for a cocktail or two. Only open to mere mortals from 4pm - 9pm.”

Kampuchea 09.06.10
“Been wanting to go here for ages and finally did - and will most definitely go again. Vaguely Cambodian food - same guys as Nam Pung sandwiches to die for - and yes, they do those same yummy sandwiches as well as other things. We had a mixture of small (and large) plates to share which were all delicious - and my sister said the cocktails were pretty good too. It's bigger now, so I guess less of a wait for a table - and they stay open late most nights too.”

No. 7 Sub 15.05.10
“What is it with posh sandwiches the moment? New yummy sandwich places popping up everywhere. Lunch today from No 7 Sub at the of-the-moment Ace Hotel was particularly good - we loved the menu of interesting combinations and the general vibe - and good company in the lunchtime line. We shared a hot pan-crusted tofu sub with rhubarb pickle and peashoots and an 'imitation lobster' one - both delicious - especially eaten in nearby Madison Park in the sunshine with baby Victory gurgling in the grass - a perfect lunch.”

Jake's 16.04.10
“It took me a couple of days to 'get' this place - a style-y little hideaway miles away from tourist Jamaica (and a good way from an airport ...); the beaches aren't great and it's most definitely boho rather than luxe-y - and looking a little tired perhaps, but it has a special magic nonetheless and I can see why it has its ardent fans. Within a day or so I'd sunk into the totally relaxed vibe and was enjoying just hanging out and doing very little. The restaurant is home-y and sweet with pretty good food - particularly breakfast (and particularly their assortment of saltfish dishes and local porridges as well as more familiar options) and we met nice people. Maybe that's the thing about it - the people. And time to sit and chat. After four days there I could have happily booked in for another month. Baby Victory loved it too - and the Jake's staff (who were invariably gorgeous) looked after him beautifully.”

Liqueteria 30.03.10
“"The original and the best cold-pressed juices in New York City" - yes, probably - the juices are really good - and they do wonderfully indulgent smoothies too - and some surprisingly good things to eat - from oatmeal to soups and veggie burgers - generally veggie/vegan. Perfectly adequate for a quick breakfast or lunch perched on a stool at the counter, or takeaway (or delivery).”

Num Pang 25.03.10
“Another of those places that I've walked past a million times and not even noticed - despite the line outside. So on reliable recommendation (thank you Mary Jane), I sought it out this week on a particularly hungry lunchtime, and was jolly glad I did. Num Pang is a true hole in the wall (with a few seats in a room upstairs) that offers the most delicious hot, juicy, spicy Vietnamese sandwiches (there's a name for them I think). I chose a mackerel and leek one from their list of specials. Their regular menu includes a meatball one which apparently is utterly addictive. A red lentil soup was very very good too. Perfect provisions for a tasty (if messy) picnic in Union Square. And they deliver to our block - what joy.”

Amy's Bread (Hells Kitchen) 25.03.10
“Very delicious bakery and cafe. The Hell's Kitchen is the tiniest of the three locations in the city - and the original I think. (The others are Bleecker St and Chelsea Market). Their bread is among the best in the city - and a huge variety of different breads and baked goods - and also sold in Dean & Deluca and other upscale groceries. Their signature bread - Semolina, Golden Raisins and Fennel is scrumptious. And a perfect place for coffee, breakfast or a sandwich.”

Pulino's Bar & Pizzeria 23.03.10
“Totally McNally (buzzy, great lighting, decor and ambiance and good people) and delicious food - pizzas and other things. We got a mixture of salads, bruschette, pizza etc to share which were all very good. And friendly waiters coped with three babies remarkably well ... I'm sure this place will be a huge success.”

Bombay Frankie Roti Roll 23.03.10
“You'd never go here in a million years unless someone told you about it. Thankfully, someone did (thank you, Anya), and it's worth the leap of faith for the most delicious griddled roti. It's takeaway only, unless you count propped up against a shelf on the wall as eating in, and the fillings are so-so (tofu and mushroom is nice), but it's the roti themselves that are delicious. Buy some un-griddled to take home to DIY.”

'Wichcraft 22.03.10
“It doesn't look that promising, but the sandwiches are great (on the odd occasion that I eat a sandwich) - particularly their warm aubergine one - delish - and they use nice soy milk for coffees - in fact, they use good ingredients for everything - and handily a block away from home. Good salads too. Useful for order-in for working lunches etc.”

Green Depot 16.03.10
“Your #1 source for environmentally friendly building supplies, they say - and household and living and a baby section too. And one of the few places in the city where you can refill bottles of detergent, cleaning products etc.”

Co. (Company) 14.03.10
“If I'm going to eat pizza, it'll be here. Delicious 'pies' (and they have one without cheese!) and other things too - we had a very delicious Ribollita and nice salads and bruschetta. Packed and a bit hectic, but surprisingly kid-accomodating too.”

Doma 14.03.10
“One of my favourite cafes in NYC. Good coffee, sandwiches, breakfast things etc, and just a nice chill place to hang out with a book or a lap-top and watch it all going on. They have books and a 'gallery' too.”

Jack's Coffee 14.03.10
“Sweet tiny neighbourhood coffee shop with a bench on the sidewalk for nice weather. Good coffee.”

Aquagrill 10.03.10
“Feels like a SoHo institution - always busy, very good food - old school but delicious - a comfortable, traditional vibe and a feeling of being well-looked after.”

Giggle 02.03.10
“A good first call for all things baby - with a bias towards the natural/green - and as stylish as baby things can be. They also have a store uptown and online.”

Cafe La Strada 02.03.10
“This is 'family' so I'm biased, but it's a lovely coffee shop/eatery/place to get all things Italian - coffee, food, ice cream, chocolates ... all home-made. And the lovely Jude also has an Emporio La Strada across the street selling lovely Italian things.”

Tate Modern 02.03.10
“London became a much better place for the Tate Modern. Whatever you think of the actual exhibition spaces, the great space of the Turbine Hall always inspires me. And I invariably enjoy their special exhibitions. And it's (mostly) free for a donation - and therefore accessible to all which is what I love most of all about it.”

Kinski 02.03.10
“Tiny Austrian cafe that looks like it's been opened on a shoestring (very lovingly). Good coffee and delicious knodel - dumpling things - sweet and savoury.”

Makie 02.03.10
“Gorgeous baby and kids clothes (and a few things for grown-ups too). Wildly expensive, but just sweet in a very understated way.”

Harmony Hotel 02.03.10
“I can't comment on staying here, because we didn't, although the rooms look nice enough and it's a groovy little place, but we so enjoyed hanging out here and being able to have tofu burgers, green juices and soy lattes ... Nosara is good for such things, yoga, surfing, massage etc.”

Crembebe 02.03.10
“Sweet little kid's clothing store - all a bit of a jumble, but some nice quirky, style-y things.”

The River Cafe 02.03.10
“An NYC classic, and completely cheesy, but rather fabulous all the same. I loved the whole thing - the wonderful view, the piano tinkling away, the flowers everywhere and the 'special occasion-ness' of it all. The food is good in a frou-frou old-school kind of way, but then the food's not really the point. We rather incongruously took baby Victory who crashed out luxuriously on a banquette and seemed to enjoy it as much as we did.”

Lupa Osteria Romana 28.02.10
“Billed as the more casual alternative to Mario Batali's Babbo, Lupa feels very much a part of the Batali stable - i.e. carefully orchestrated and slick ambiance and food, but I love the buzz and the noise and it's a fun upbeat place to be. It's invariably packed (although they do 'promise' to seat walk-ins) and the food's good.”

Punta Islita 25.02.10
“I'm not sure I totally love this place, but it grew on me. The setting is paradise - the hotel is set up on the hill amongst wonderful wild nature, overlooking a beautiful bay. The staff are very sweet and helpful - and for our recent holiday with the baby - just wanting to flop on a beach and relax it was perfect. And lots of people obviously really love it - rates highly on Conde Nast Gold List and others. They were fantastic with the baby, and we met several people who go there because they're great with kids - without it being an overtly 'kid-friendly' type place. Everything was very lovely, without it having that something about it that makes me rave about it - not sure what it was. But value for money, it was great - and we didn't have to leave the hotel grounds to see wonderful birds and monkeys. Oh - one special thing - the hotel (genuinely eco-conscious) supports several community initiatives in the village, including an art project, which was great. And we loved the 'local' restaurant in the village too.”

Alexander Gray Gallery 18.02.10
“Lovely people with an adventurous, inspiring programme - specialising in mid career contemporary artists. They've just moved and I can't wait to see their new space.”

The Standard Grill 18.02.10
“Went here for brunch the other day and loved it - big, busy and buzzy and very NYC. Food was competent and polished, but not really the main point, although I love that American brunch thing done well. I imagine that other meals would be pretty good here too, and the other bars in the hotel are fun as well. Good people-watching.”

New Museum 18.02.10
“NYC's new contemporary art museum. Love the building (and the views from the top). Quite a hit and miss programme of exhibtions, but I love having a membership here and dropping in to see little bits of what's going on.”

Su Gologone 18.02.10
“We stayed here two years ago and (unexpectedly) just loved it. Hidden away in the middle of Sardinia, it is a beautiful family owned and run hotel, traditional but very stylish, in a lovely rural setting. It was a comfortable, charming, easy place to be. They are famous for their full-on carnivorous fests, but we managed to find delicious fish and vegetarian things too. They make their own olive oil (and wine too maybe?) and have their own vegetable garden and have a strong commitment to the local community.”

Hobbs House Bakery 18.02.10
“Absolutely delicious award-winning bread and lots of different and interesting artisan recipes. I think they have several locations in Gloucestershire and Wiltshire and various places sell their bread too. Their shop in the lovely little town Nailsworth also has a sweet little cafe upstairs.”

Gail's 18.02.10
“Delicious bakery/cafe. I love their wholesome-tasting bread (which you can also buy in Waitrose) and the cafe is pretty good - nice soup and salads and a beautiful array of yummy-looking cakes and pastries. Nice people. I think there are other branches elsewhere in London too.”

Hotel 17 18.02.10
“Used to stay here a lot way back when. Cheap and a bit grunge-y, but not without it's slightly louche charm.”

Waitrose 18.02.10
“If I have to shop at a supermarket, it's this one. And I almost don't categorise it as a supermarket as I believe in their commitment to good food, to organic products and to their staff etc. Can usually find most things I want - hurrah - and it's a pleasant environment.”

Aedes de Venustas 18.02.10
“Rather fabulous fragance boutique. Tiny boudoir-like space selling lovely and unusual fragrances. Good place for trying new fragrances and finding things from small brands and for getting recommendations for buying fragrances for someone else.”

Bigelow Apothecary 18.02.10
“A real apothecary and allegedly the oldest in America. Operates as a dispensing pharmacy as well as selling a whole load of beauty and personal care products and their own (very good) range. Can usually find most things that you'd want here, tucked away. An institution.”

Moomah Cafe 04.02.10
“I'm very excited about discovering this place (thank you Kristin). Moomah describes itself as ... a place of whimsy, wonder and warmth, a creative playscape, a cozy cafe, a living classroom, an art oasis, your neighbourhood meeting spot, your favourite place to be together and a place for your child to simply be ... which pretty much sums it up.”

Lantana Cafe 04.02.10
“Tiny, style-y, lovely food and nice people. Just a good little cafe in an area full of them but not many nice ones. Gets very busy. Takeaway too. And evenings as well I think.”

Aldeburgh Fish & Chips Restaurant 03.02.10
“Ditto Graeme's comment.”

Blue Ribbon Bakery Market 03.02.10
“Nice food, yummy sandwiches.”

The Living Room 03.02.10
“Very easy place to go hang out - can usually get a seat and invariably pleasant enough music, with the occasional gem.”

Cosmic Cantina 03.02.10
“Huge 'healthy' burritos - no, not a place to linger, but good food on the run.”

Momofuku Noodle Bar 03.02.10
“Delicious, style-y, buzzy - perfect East Village eatery.”

McNally Jackson Books 03.02.10
“Just the best bookstore ...”

The Museum of Everything 03.02.10
“Amazing place - both the exhibition and the space. Really hope that it becomes a permanent thing. So grateful that there are people that create things like this.”

Storey Deli 03.02.10
“I love their style - and their food too. Want to copy everything they do...”

Rough Trade 03.02.10
“I love Rough Trade - my local for years was the one in Notting Hill. I think they still do their music club where they send you music each month that you might like - great idea.”

Officino Profumo Farmaceutica Di Santa Maria Novella 03.02.10
“Just gorgeous - and perfect for gifts.”

Lina Stores 03.02.10
“Traditional, authentic, and still there ... hurrah.”

Liberty 03.02.10
“Liberty's has become a good store of late - nice selection of stuff, but not overwhelmingly huge - and the cafe and teashop are nice too.”

Leila's 03.02.10
“Sweet simple little cafe and food store next door. Don't quite get why they don't do takeaway?”

Fernandez & Wells (Food & Wine Bar) 03.02.10
“Simple, authentic, tiny, but style-y - and I love places that only do a few things, but do them really well. I LOVE this place ...”

Fernandez & Well (Cafe) 03.02.10
“Style-y little cafe - just gorgeous - apparently very good coffee, but as they don't do soy milk for my ridiculously weak and very occasional decaf then I settled for a herb tea instead. Delish toasted sandwiches.”

F Cooke 03.02.10
“Actually ate here once years ago, so no idea what the food is like now, but a lovely place to walk past and admire at least. The real deal.”

Broadway Market 03.02.10
“Nice to discover a different market and a different vibe. Lovely little cafes here too.”

Albion Cafe 03.02.10
“Hoorah for (pretty) good simple British food and a nice buzzy style-y cafe.”

Columbia Road Flower Market 03.02.10
“Way more hectic than it used to be but fun as much for the little shops and cafes and the general buzz as for the flowers”

The Fryers Delight 03.02.10
“Trad, basic fish and chips but very good - complete with cosy banquette seats and mugs of lukewarm tea to eat in.”

Russ & Daughters 30.01.10
“Top quality, gorgeous shop, dozens of knowledgeable assistants and always packed, Best salmon bagels.”

Idlewild Books 29.11.09
“Lovely travel bookstore with travel guides and literature (fiction, travel memoirs etc) arranged by country. Huge amount of books about New York, and a good selection for children too.”

Cafe Gitane 23.11.09
“A scene, but fun - and great for breakfast. Apparently another branch opening soon in the West Village - hurrah”

Caracas Arepa Bar 23.11.09
“Quirky little place and absolutely delicious arepas - made with love.”

Selfridges 23.11.09
“Too big and too busy sometimes but a great department store and usually a good selection of things. Menswear, women's shoes and books are particularly good. I've never wanted to eat anywhere there though - apart from the concessions in the foodhall.”

Cinema Nolita 20.11.09
“Ramshackle and a bit chaotic, but I love this little movie rental place - although the chances are that your DVD probably won't actually work very well!”

Ochre 20.11.09
“Wildly expensive, but gorgeous things for the home. I think the owners are British - which maybe explains their fabulous style ...”

Barneys 20.11.09
“Probably still the best selection of designer clothes for both men and women - and just a gorgeous place to shop. Lovely accessories and a good shoe department. Top floors good for jeans, casual clothes and a good pick of mid-range clothes.”

Pearl Paints 20.11.09
“Wonderful huge emporium of all kinds of art, craft and graphic supplies.”

Soba Koh 20.11.09
“Very good homemade soba noodles - and other nice things too. Ambiance is a little more refined than some other noodle places.”

Babycakes 20.11.09
“Cute and kitsch - a tiny little bakery that makes delicious cakes and goodies that are completely vegan and mostly free from sugar (and many gluten free too). They are famous for their luscious cupcakes which make great gifts in pretty boxes, and there are a couple of spaces to sit and have a tea there too. Stays open late in the evenings - perfect for dessert.”

La Sana Gola 18.11.09
“It's miles from anywhere, but worth the trip for nice Italian style macrobiotic food (weekdays lunch). They also do special dinners on occasions, which are really good - and cooking classes, altho I haven't tried these (and they would be in Italian!).”

Pips Fruit & Vegetables 18.11.09
“Wonderful organic fruit and vegetable and grocery store in the tiny town of Modbury. They stock fantastic local produce, and delicious bread from a local baker and they are lovely people. It's a joy to shop there. They also now have a larger shop on the road in to Plymouth with a cafe and takeaway food too.”

Marie's Crisis 18.11.09
“One of my favourite places - been there for ever, scruffy, unpretentious and really good fun, if you're into singing along to songs from the shows, or just watching it all going on.”

Books for Cooks 17.11.09
“I love this tiny shop stuffed full of any cookbook that has ever been printed, I'm sure and super-knowledgeable staff. And there's a tiny cafe with one daily special and yummy cakes - usually all really good. Too crowded at weekends but a great place to browse books, when there's space. Good program of cooking classes in their little classroom upstairs too.”

The Providores 17.11.09
“Only eaten downstairs - fantastic breakfasts, and also nice for lunch. Good coffee. Good interesting food and a styley place and nice vibe.”

Old Good Things 17.11.09
“Amazing collection of stuff - not the cheapest place to get things, but the staff are helpful and the choice is fantastic.”

Triyoga 17.11.09
“Beautiful space, good classes, good holistic practitioners and the little cafe is pretty good too.”

Terre a Terre 17.11.09
“Delicious, inventive, upscale food. Complex flavours and combinations but pretty much everything worked. The lunch menu looks nice too - simpler.”

Clerkenwell Tales 17.11.09
“Hurrah for these guys, daring to open a little independent bookstore in Exmouth Market. Love being able to go in and ask advice about what to read or what to buy for someone else. Please support this store - I'd really like them to stay there.”

ABC Carpet and Home 17.11.09
“Beautifully styled, lovely selection of things and always inspiring.”

Porchetta 17.11.09
“If I'm going to eat meat, it has to be delicious - and this is. Only a tiny bit of space at the counter to eat in (can take your own beer) or outside, or takeaway. Soup was delicious - homey and nourishing.”

Keiths Farm 17.11.09
“I love these guys - everything feels authentic and delicious”

Loungelover 17.11.09
“Glamorous and OTT - just for fun.”

The Ivy 17.11.09
“Yes, it's a classic, but always a treat and lovely to feel so well-looked after. Food is consistently very nice rather than anything spectacular, but eating here always feels special.”

Bistrotheque 17.11.09
“Only been here for breakfast/brunch, but it's a great space, the food is good and they have interesting things happening - music, cabaret etc. Would imagine an evening here would be fun.”

Andrew Edmunds 17.11.09
“Cosy, style-y, low-key but good food of the kind that I like - good ingredients, simply cooked and presented in a casual way. Food sometimes a bit hit and miss, but usually a nice place to be.”

Lucky 7 17.11.09
“Haven't eaten here in a while, but I love the cosy busy vibe and the booths, and the food isn't bad either, in a burger and fries kind of way. At least the burgers are organic - and the fries used to be good anyway.”

The Eagle 17.11.09
“Love their style and the vibe - nicely casual but usually delicious food”

The Cross 17.11.09
“Perfect little hip boutique - always manage to find something that I love. Huge turnover of new things, so always worth popping in frequently. Very helpful staff.”

King John's Hunting Lodge 17.11.09
“This belongs to my wonderful godmother Margaret, so I'm biased, but it's a gorgeous place - lovely menu of interesting traditional lunch and tea things and beautiful rooms for B&B complete with home-made cookies and the best best traditional English breakfast anywhere.”

Pearl Oyster Bar 17.11.09
“Full of tourists? Probably, but lovely place and delicious New England style fish and seafood. Fried oysters are wonderful. Nice to sit at the bar. Always busy, so go early and be prepared to wait.”

Jivamukti Yoga and Cafe 17.11.09
“Great little vegan cafe at Jivamukti Yoga School - vegan - simple, but usually have nice food and a good place to hang out. Yoga classes are good too, and lots of interesting workshops and events - always busy.”

Unpackaged 17.11.09
“Hurrah for Unpackaged - for a tiny shop it has pretty much everything I want - and I love their packaging philosophy. Just need to remember to take containers and bags for generous discounts for not using uneccesary packaging.”

Samphire 17.11.09
“I love farm shops, and this one is a goody - haven't tried them, but their sausages are legendary. And the Blicking estate of which this is a part is just magical.”

Little Owl 10.11.09
“Perfet neighbourhood eatery - always packed (book in advance) - and relaxed and low key. Definitely not haute cuisine, but all very good and a nice vibe.”

Restaurant La Telline 02.11.09
“Tiny, quirky family-run place. Just gorgeous. Short menu of simple but utterly deliciious food based entirely on what's in the market or in the garden. Lovely welcoming people and a really special place.”

La Fromagerie 02.11.09
“A tiny piece of France in Marylebone. Shop full of lovely ingredients and nice simple menu. Great for breakfast, brunch or lunch - and they do other things besides cheese.”

The Organic Farm Shop 02.11.09
“Fantastic farm shop with a vegetarian/vegan café/takeaway too. And lots of natural food products as well as fresh fruit and veg.”

Harbour House Restaurant 02.11.09
“Perfect location overlooking the ocean at Kalk Bay - with stunning views from most tables. And surprisingly good food - freshest fish and seafood and nice things to go with it. Very romantic. And you can buy fantastic fish and seafood from the market on the harbour to take home too.”

Angelica Kitchen 02.11.09
“An NYC institution and personal favourite. Totally vegan, but very non-vegan friendly. Buzzy vibe, always packed. Be prepared to wait for a table if you get there much after 7pm for dinner. Nice simple things to eat as well as more complex daily specials and great naturally sweetened desserts.”

Omen 02.11.09
“Special place. Delicious grown-up proper Japanese food (not sushi/tempura etc) in an intimate relaxed setting. Could be a special occasion place, but works equally well for a more low-key dinner.”

Bistrot a Cote 02.11.09
“Buzzy modern-looking bistro - food much better than the décor. Pretty committed to local, seasonal and artisan-produced food. Reassuringly short menu and delicious food - simple, bistro style dishes, but very good.”

Gramercy Tavern 02.11.09
“Perfect place for grown-up lunch or dinner and one of the best places in NYC for modern American cooking. Main dining room if quite formal and can be tricky to get a reservation, but it's walk-ins only for the front part of the restaurant with a more casual menu.”

Union Square Café 02.11.09
“A classic - and really good food - Italian-inspired modern American cooking - with many of their ingredients coming from the farmers'market across the street. Really nice for brunch/lunch. Book well in advance. Quite formal, but more relaxed than it appears.”

Balthazar 02.11.09
“Fun for the scene and the experience rather than the food - although food isn't bad. My favourite time to go is for breakfast - particularly in winter. Always packed full of all sorts - locals and tourists - and definitely worth a visit.”

Pastis 02.11.09
“Similar vibe to Balthazar, but works better in the summer. Similarly always packed. Food is pretty good. Good breakfasts. Definitely a see and be seen type place and fun to take visitors to NYC.”

Craft 02.11.09
“Delicious modern American local/seasonal food. Upscale but a buzzy vibe. Fun way to eat to construct dishes from options of meats, fish, vegetables etc.”

Dirt Candy 02.11.09
“Tiny East Village restaurant (book in advance) serving really good 'posh' vegetarian food (all dishes can be adapted to vegan too). Everything we tried was really good. Not cheap but delicious, and good wines and beers too.”

Blue Hill at Stone Barns 02.11.09
“Wildly expensive and miles out of town, but probably the best eating experience I've had in a long time. Really special - everyone should go at least once. Most of their ingredients come from their own farm (or very close by from like-minded producers) and menus are created specifically for each diner around what's available and personal preferences (vegetarians would do as well here as carnivores). Top notch service, a lovely dining room and altogether a fantastic experience. Definitely dress up, book an early table and settle in for a long evening. There's also a cafe at the farm that's open during the day, which serves nice snacks, salads etc.”

Jack's Luxury Oyster Bar 02.11.09
“We love this place. Tiny place in true East Village style. Very romantic. Food much better than we expected - nice twists on traditional American fare. Perfect for a date.”

Taim 02.11.09
“NYC's best falafels. In fact best falafels pretty much anywhere I think. Tiny hole in the wall in the West Village. Probably only about 6 seats inside, altho benches outside - so go early if it's raining. Delicious fresh falafels, salads and other things.”

Chennai Garden 02.11.09
“Best vegetarian Indian that we've tried here.”

Local 02.11.09
“Love this café - great for breakfast. 100% committed to local, organic, sustainable etc. Tiny place. Interesting simple food.”

Kajitsu 02.11.09
“Weirdly sparse décor and soul-less ambiance, but very special food. Traditional japanese feasts of lots of tiny courses - all vegetarian/vegan - although totally appealing to otherwise meat-eaters too. Careful service and beautifully presented work of art type special occasion food. We sat at the bar, which helped ignore the otherwise strange atmosphere. Just been awarded a Michelin star, so hope it gets busier and buzzier - and perhaps a few more things added to the interior to make it feel a little warmer.”

Cha-An Teahouse 02.11.09
“Fun place for tea and desserts pretty much any time of day - including late night. Savoury food pretty good too.”

Benny's Burritos 02.11.09
“We love the East Village branch - bit grungier and more boho than the Upper West Side version. And they do brown rice, wholemeal burritos and vegan versions of most things. Good place for an East Village pitstop and watching people go by on the sidewalk.”

Il Buco 02.11.09
“Cosy, romantic, rustic Italian. Definitely a winter date venue - altho might be fun for a larger party too. Rustic competent Italian food.”

One Lucky Duck Juice & Takeaway 02.11.09
“Takeaway bit of Pure Food and Wine around the corner. Everything is raw (or not heated above a certain temperature) and lots of interesting things to try - juices, things for lunch, cakes, chocolates etc. Not the cheapest takeaway ever, but really interesting flavours.”

Souen Ramen 02.11.09
“New-ish noodle operation from macrobiotic Souen. Tiny space, nice noodles - slightly different to Souen's regular - not sure if any better. And they (weirdly) do chicken noodles, as well as vegetable and fish.”

Souen Soho 02.11.09
“One of my most regular eating places in NYC. Japanese style macrobiotic food (vegan plus fish). Really clean, nourishing food. This location is slightly calmer and more uspcale ambiance than it's Union Square sister. Menus are slightly different at each as now under separate management.”

Souen Union Sq 02.11.09
“Busier and scruffier than the SoHo version. Longer menu. Maybe cheaper even. Great Japanese style macrobiotic food. Bargain lunch specials.”

Peasant 02.11.09
“Atmospheric upscale rustic Italian with much of the cooking featuring their wood oven. Really good food and a buzzy and hip vibe. Nice for celebrations or romantic dinner.”

Kyo Ya 02.11.09
“Upscale proper Japanese food, nice for quiet intimate dinner and unusual but really good food.”

Wallse 02.11.09
“Neighbourhood cosy romantic vibe, good food and usually an interestin mix of people. Couple of tables outside in summer.”

Matsugen 02.11.09
“Big and buzzy and scene-y. Good for a drink and good cocktails as well as dinner. Excellent homemade soba noodles.”

Mary's Fish Camp 02.11.09
“Tiny, always packed, really charming. Modern take on traditional American fish and seafood in a casual way.”

Quartino Bottega Organica 02.11.09
“Good choice for healthy eating but nothing too worthy - everything is organic - and works well for vegetarians and meat/fish eaters alike. Low key, hip vibe, tiny garden at the back for summer.”

Bocca Lupo 02.11.09
“Very happy to discover this place. Delicious rustic Italian quality ingredients small plates - soups, salads, bruschetta etc. Laid back vibe.”

Villa Ecotucan 02.11.09
“Very basic, very friendly, beautiful setting. Just a lovely place to be. Very family oriented.”

Balamku 02.11.09
“Right on the ocean. Far enough away from the local village (not so nice) to be secluded and peaceful. Modest but comfortable. Very committed to being 'green'. Pretty rooms, good breakfast and only a short wander down the beach to the Travel Inn for dinner.”

Travel Inn 02.11.09
“Love this place - totally boho/slightly chaotic, gorgeous people. Simple nice dinners available most evenings, all very relaxed. And sometimes they have rooms available to stay. No telephone.”

Estancia Colome 02.11.09
“One of the most beautiful places I have ever been. Stunning setting up in the mountains. Freshest cleanest air. And a very beautiful friendly, caring place. Luxurious in a low-key way. Delicious food, mostly locally grown and produced, and wine from their own vineyard. Charming staff. Just perfect. And not wildly expensive considering what a special place it is. Hope it doesn't change too much.”

Le Mas de Peint 02.11.09
“Style-y, luxurious but relaxed and a lovely place to just hang out for a few days - whether riding their lovely whilte Camargue horses or not. Food was excellent but quite formal - fine for one or two dinners - but other places close by - like the totally gorgeous La Telline.”

Whole Earth Bakery & Kitchen 02.11.09
“Boho little vegan bakery in the East Village producing a huge selection of goodies - sweet and savoury. Many naturally sweetened, all vegan.”

St John Bar & Restaurant 02.11.09
“Perennial favourite - even for a non-meat eater like me. Love their style and their commitment to the best possible seasonal ingredients, simply but beautifully prepared. The best bread - also available to takeaway. We love doing a casual supper in the bar as well as more formal proper dinner in the dining room.”

St John Bread & Wine 02.11.09
“As at St John - a regular favourite and love their style and their food.”

Moro 02.11.09
“Another favourite - and happily in our neighbourhood. Excellent inspiring food. Works for special occasion as well as more relaxed eating. Interesting people. Bar snacks make a nice supper or lunch too.”

Ottolenghi (Islington) 02.11.09
“Delicious inspiring food - salads, savoury dishes and indulgent bakery. Great to eat in (brunch especially good here in Islington branch) as well as takeaway and catering.”

Ottolenghi (Nottinghill) 02.11.09
“Delicious inspiring food. Barely any space to eat in, but cosy, if you do manage to grab a seat. Great for takeaways and catering.”

Ottolenghi (Kensington) 02.11.09
“Delicious inspiring food. Can't remember if anywhere to eat in here, but great for takeaways and catering.”

Ottolenghi (Belgravia) 02.11.09
“Delicious inspiring food. Barely any space to eat in, but cosy, if you do manage to grab a seat. Great for takeaways and catering.”

Maison Bertaux 02.11.09
“Great place to hang out in Soho, and one of the few places that still feels like 'old' Soho. Nicely scruffy.”

The Wolseley 02.11.09
“Perfect for buzzy breakfast or afternoon tea. Good people-watching. Perfect for visitors. Lovely in winter. Food is fine - nothing outstanding, but good brasserie style food - and very useful for eating at odd times of day.”

Coffee Plant 02.11.09
“The perfect coffee bar. Committed to fairtrade/green principles, nice people, the best coffee and a great Portobello road hang-out. Please don't change.”

Planet Organic (Islington) 02.11.09
“Useful natural food store with natural food takeaway food. Only place to sit and eat in Islington branch is outside. Usually good range of organic fresh produce.”

Planet Organic (West End) 02.11.09
“Useful natural food store with natural food takeaway food and space to sit and eat. Usually good range of organic fresh produce. Very busy at lunchtimes.”

Planet Organic (Westbourne Grove) 02.11.09
“Useful natural food store with natural food takeaway food and space to sit and eat. Usually good range of organic fresh produce.”

Afghan Kitchen 02.11.09
“Tiny, cramped, invariably packed and super-short menu, but we love their simple carefully made food and the vibe. Vegetarians and meat-eaters could both eat well here.”

The Oak 02.11.09
“Nice relaxed gastropub vibe which belies the quality of their rustic Italian food - pizzas and proper food - usually really good.”

Tom's Deli 02.11.09
“Always packed, but great for brunch. Lovely deli shop, altho not the cheapest place to get your groceries.”

Chegworth Farm Shop 02.11.09
“Love this shop - packed full of real food from their farm and other similarly principled producers. Bakery, fresh produce and other natural food products.”

Union Square Greenmarket 02.11.09
“I'm so lucky to live within a few blocks of this market which is here on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Fantastic selection of farms and farm produce - fruit, vegetables, fish, meat, flowers, baked goods, cheese, wine, jams etc etc. Market gets bigger through the week and stallholders usually stay for the whole day.”

Recoleta Cemetery 02.11.09
“A must-do in Buenos Aires. Curious and intriguing and a calm place for a stroll.”

Confiteria Ideal 02.11.09
“Old style tea room and tango place. Open pretty much all day. Nice in the afternoon for tea.”

Olsen 02.11.09
“Hip, style-y, roughly Danish café/restaurant. Really good/popular for brunch. Nice garden if its not too hot.”

Les Toiles du Soleil 02.11.09
“Bright and beautiful canvas available by the yard, or made into nice things - bags, aprons, deckchair covers etc.”

The Antiques Garage 02.11.09
“My regular flea-market. Open all day Saturdays and Sundays, and good for a rummage.”

Integral Yoga Natural Foods 02.11.09
“The best natural food store in Manhattan. Not huge, but packed full of good things - and takeaway food too.”

Guen Mai 02.11.09
“Love this café. Delicious simple macrobiotic food, but in a style that would be totally acceptable for non macro eaters too. Lovely light airy vibe and a nice neighbourhood. Also do takeaway food.”

Rose Bakery 02.11.09
“Gorgeous café. Boho and style-y and lovely carefully made food. Perfect for breakfast, lunch or tea. Apparently they've opened another one somewhere else in Paris.”

La Calcina 02.11.09
“Modest but completely charming and a lovely place to stay in Venice. Convenient for everthing, but slightly tucked away from the crowds. No idea what their food is like. Book well in advance, as wildly popular.”

Hotel La Residencia 02.11.09
“Not sure I'd o here in high season, but at Easter it was just perfect. Utterly luxurious and cossetting and a wonderful place to just be for a while. Food not as good as it should be (breakfast and lunch fine), but lots of nice places to eat in the village.”

Hotel Amour 02.11.09
“Funky boho vibe. Not the most convenient part of Paris, but really sweet and perfect for style-y romantic Paris on a budget. And the Rose Bakery is just across the road.”

Le Loir dans la Théière 02.11.09
“Possibly my favourite Paris café. Good to hang out any time of day, but specially good for brunch, and great cakes for tea. Usually packed, but low-key and relaxed.”

Mariage Freres 02.11.09
“An institution and an experience. Lovely teas and nice things to eat.”

Hotel Costes 02.11.09
“Never stayed here, sadly, but the courtyard bar is fantastic for an early evening drink, or later for coffee/desserts or cocktails. Dress up and make a reservation if possible.”

Maison Europeene de la Photographie 02.11.09
“Perfect sized gallery and usually showing interesting things.”

Mount Nelson Hotel 02.11.09
“Lovely old traditional hotel, which was a nice enough place to stay, but included here for their afternoon tea, which seems to be a Cape Town institution and a real treat. Very civilised and huge selection of teatime goodies. Lovely gardens.”

De Hoop Nature Reserve Cottages 02.11.09
“Utterly beautiful wild place. Vast nature reserve spanning coast with enormous dramatic sand dunes and inland bush with lots of animals to see. A handful of sweet self-catering cottages are scattered across the reserve - some more comfortable than others, but all very quaint. There's a cafe/restaurant too (which we didn't try, but seemed fine). Fantastic hikes along the coast/inland. Special place to escape to.”

Spookfontein Farm Cottages 02.11.09
“Beautiful style-y comfortable little cottage nestled in a dramatic valley. Huge log fire, pretty romantic bedrooms, amazing view from the terrace - nice place to be winter or summer - and closeby to Hermanus and the coast and good hiking inland too. Lovely owners who also have a farm and a vineyard - and will make food too, I believe.”

The Peasant 02.11.09
“Our local pub which happens to be about the right distance to stroll to. Nice vibe. Apparently the food is great, but never tried it.”

Barrafina 02.11.09
“Worth the wait and the cramped sitting arrangements for really good tapas and a buzzy Soho vibe.”

Petersham Nurseries 02.11.09
“The perfect lunch - amidst the very lovely garden centre. Simple but delicious lovingly-prepared food - totally seasonal and as local as possible. A very special place to be and a perennial favourite - when you can get a reservation/make the journey to Petersham. Also a little café for soups and goodies - and a really nice place to hang out in good weather. The garden centre has many nice things to buy too.”

Rochelle Canteen 02.11.09
“Love that this place is so tucked away and secret - and a gorgeous place on a sunny day. Very delicious food - in the St John tradition. Lunch only.”

Duke of Cambridge 02.11.09
“Fantastic organic gastropub - lovely relaxed style-y atmosphere and totally committed to organic, seasonal and local food - mostly deliciously.”

Spitalfields Market 02.11.09
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Trattoria Masuelli San Marco 02.11.09
“Just gorgeous - simple, brightly lit, unpretentious, but they are proud of what they produce - rightly so, as it's invariably delicious. Definitely my favourite in Milan.”

Corso Como 02.11.09
“An inspiring lovely place to spend some time - shopping, eating, art gallery. Uber-stylish and lovely things.”

The Highline 02.11.09
“Just beautiful - oddly. The park has been created very cleverly, there are lovely views and a real feel of NYC community who gather here to enjoy it.”

Bird's Boutique Cafe 02.11.09
“Best café in Cape Town. Super style-y in a laid-back boho way and great food - vegan/vegetarian friendly plus other things.”

Hacienda Yaxcopoil 02.11.09
“Lovely lovely hidden place. Slightly ramshackle in the perfect style-y kind of way. And you can stay here too in a modest but very charming 'appartment'. Utterly romantic.”

Bill's Produce Store 02.11.09
“Lovely food shop and buzzy café. Hurrah for their commitment to local, sustainable etc. There's another branch in Brighton too now, I think.”

Konstam 02.11.09
“Haven't been here for a while, but I totally admire their philosophy (very local, very seasonal) and always enjoyed their food”

Earth Natural Foods 02.11.09
“London's best natural food store - in my view anyway. Good selection of fresh produce and store cupboard and some takeaway food too.”

Myriad 02.11.09
“I love their style - lots of French antiqus and quirky bits”

Dumpling Man 02.11.09
“Tiny little dumpling café- meat and vegetarian and sweet ones too. A few seats to eat in, otherwise takeaway. Can even buy just one dumpling. Nice place to drop in for dessert dumplings while out in the East Village.”

Officino Profumo Farmaceutica Di Santa Maria Novella 02.11.09
“Lovely unusual and natural scents and the most beautiful packaging and a real experience to go buy something.”

Officino Profumo Farmaceutica Di Santa Maria Novella 02.11.09
“Lovely unusual and natural scents and beautiful packaging. Great for gifts.”

The Electric Cinema 02.11.09
“For a long time, my local cinema - what a treat to snuggle up in a huge seat.”

Summerill and Bishop 02.11.09
“Just the most lovely styley kitchen shop.”