A Dining Dream

Last night, my guy and I had, without a doubt, one of the best meals of our lives. The Ledbury needs no introduction around London — located on Ledbury Road in Notting Hill, it’s a two Michelin star spot with innovative seasonal dishes from head chef Brett Graham and deliciously paired wines, set in a classically cool dining room. {I was absolutely in love with the mod chandelier.}

Via Nelson Design

The food and wine were amazing — but what really set the night apart for me was the presentation of every dish {see photos below! I couldn’t resist snapping a few}, and the way we felt relaxed from the moment we stepped in the door. It was the little things — the way our coats were taken so seamlessly (and remembered with no tag), how each wine was meticulously paired to enhance the dish we were about to enjoy, how our water glasses were never empty. It was elegant without being stuffy, beautiful without any pretentiousness.

Our experience at The Ledbury reminded me of my philosophy of celebrating the everyday both beautifully and uncomplicated. A weeknight lasagne dinner for the two of us can become a special Italian evening with Frank Sinatra crooning through my iPhone and a delicious bottle of red decanting on the table. By thinking about how I want the night to feel, and focusing on a few high-impact details, it elevates the entire experience. The Ledbury did that and more — taking every opportunity to make our night special, right down to giving us a printed copy of the menu we had as a memento.

What a special night — and good reminders for celebrating and living well everyday.

A little dark! My handsome date enjoying the first of our four amuse bouches (yes, four!) and rose champagne.