A couple of days in London

A friend recently asked me about where to go and eat in London for a long weekend. There is so much one can do in London - so it's very hard to be prescriptive. Still, here is a suggested on-foot itinerary if one had a couple of days in London:

Day 1: Covent Garden / Soho

Morning: For a real change, eat breakfast at Dishoom where everything has an Indian twist. Also a fairly quiet place to start the day. Afterwards, explore the boutiques on Neal Street. Walk down to Covent Garden to enjoy the buzz all around. Remember to visit the Apple Store - nicely slotted into a period building.

Lunch: A light Thai lunch at Busaba on Floral Street. Their Phad Thai is not half bad.

Afternoon: Walk up to Soho (but avoid Leicester Sq as it's still a building site as of Jan 2012), and explore the unusual shops around Old Compton St and Berwick St. Here are a few suggestions for afternoon tea and coffee: Flat White on Berwick St for a gritty feel. Princi has good Italian coffee and pastry, but could be crowded. The Hidden Tea Room in Soho serves up traditional scones, cakes and tea - but it's hidden!

Evening: How about an early evening cocktail at the Covent Garden Hotel?

Day 2: Mayfair / St James's

Morning: Get up and head over to Nopi for breakfast where one is treated to delightful bakeries (of Ottolenghi fame) and other Middle-Eastern inspired delicacies. Cross Regent Street and meander through the streets of Mayfair and window shop along Bond Street, New Bond Street and numerous Victorian arcades. Don't miss Asprey - even if you can't afford their diamonds.

Lunch: Try the delightful Cecconi's behind the Royal Academy of Art, or Wild Honey on St George Street.

Afternoon: Perhaps a post-lunch stroll around Berkeley Square. Pop by Dover Street Market to check out some well-curated fashion goodies. Or peep at the numerous art galleries dotted around Mayfair. For a Continental Kaffee und Kuchen, go to Wolseley on Piccadilly. You don't need a reservation in the anterooms. If Fortnum & Mason is still open, pick up some Royal Blend tea leaves and champagne marmalade.

Evening: How about a drink at the National Portrait Gallery Portrait Restaurant where one can get an unexpected view of London?

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