London Archives - Modern Pineapple

July 16, 2016

Caffeinating at Kensington Coffee

Hello! I’ve missed you so and promise the absence over the past several months has been because work has needed my fullest attention, to the point of being all-consuming. It’s been exciting though and I’ve launched big campaigns for social change with my incredible teams. Ben and I have also been traveling whenever we can with little weekends away, and took a very big trip in May that I’ll be sharing more about in an upcoming post or two.

Amidst it all, I’ve been trying to answer some very big questions I have of myself. They’re not ones that have just any one answer, but I’m hoping to narrow it down. Where do I think I’ll make the biggest difference in both my world and the bigger world? How do I want to grow professionally while nurturing my personal interests? Where do I see my family in five years from now? I’ve just recently turned 29 and feel like these questions need answering immediately. Does anyone else have this crazy sense of urgency? I’ve always been impatient, but this has gone to a new level. Of course, I’m proud of the choices I’ve made so far in life, but believe in the power of continued self-examination to make the best ones for my family now. Though that job is probably never done, I’m working through it to get the answers I need right now!

I’ve also been spending down time in our neighborhood. Especially Kensington Coffee, the sweet little shop that opened towards the end of the winter much to my delight. Now, the hours I’ve logged in coffee shops is obscene, starting with a little Starbucks where I used to spend weekend afternoons writing articles for the local newspaper while at Virginia Tech (hi, Roanoke Times!). I love the entire experience. Cozying up with the newspaper, a book, my macbook, or just my own thoughts with my hands wrapped around a hot ceramic mug with others around me is just sublime.

The lattes there are delicious and a great alternative to the chains we had prior to its arrival. The ambience is light and airy, and the staff are incredibly friendly. Their food is all organic, gluten-free and refined sugar free, but I’d skip it altogether and only pick up a cake (carrot is my favorite) if you’re in the mood for something sweet.

Kensington Coffee is located at 43 Kensington Church Street, W8.

September 13, 2015

Brilliant Balloons

Good morning! It’s a beautiful Sunday here in London, and I’m home with a cold. It was one of those that came overnight, aggressively and without reason. It’s given me the chance to make homemade ginger tea with honey, read a number of articles I’ve had saved, and get used to my new hair length (two inches shorter that looks like four and feels like a world of difference).

Yesterday afternoon we went to Covent Garden, where 100,000 white balloons have filled the high ceilings of the market’s south hall. Designed by Charles Pétillon, the balloons en masse are a striking site, with white lights pulsating behind the giant balloon cloud to resemble a heartbeat. He agreed to do this as Covent Garden, when it opened in 1552, changed the landscape of the area and was really the heart of the town, much as urban markets still are today. It’s his first installation outside of France, and he is known for using white balloons to add playfulness and bring a different perspective to otherwise mundane structures. We learned this in a nearby small pop-up gallery with photographs of his other works. (“Cloud Computing” was my favorite.)

The installation is only on for four weeks, and ends September 27, so make haste! Make an evening of it by going around the corner to the London outpost of New York institution Balthazar for champagne and plateaux de fruits de mer afterwards. Fines de Claire oysters are sublime! x

With shorter hair and selfies galore.

August 30, 2015

In the Neighborhood: Notting Gill Chippy

Our neighborhood is full of old favorites. There’s the Churchill Arms with Winston Churchill and other old English memorabilia packing every corner of the pub up front and the tasty Thai restaurant in the butterfly conservatory in the back. Then there’s Maggie Jones, a beloved local joint with a rustic theme and the most delicious pies. The Shed offers farm-to-table small plates for people who travel all over London for the daily looseners; Paul Rhodes is the greatest little boulangerie with freshly baked breads, croissants, cakes and other treats; and David Cameron can be seen lunching at Clarke’s. Of course, there’s our pub The Mall Tavern with the best Sunday roast in town (though we’re obviously biased with its close proximity to our front door).

So it was with much excitement when we learned a pop-up was opening on Ken Church Street this month. We returned from our trip in the US to find Kensington Place, a modern British restaurant with fish from the market next door, had transformed its private dining room to the Notting Gill Chippy! Complete with a summery blue and white awning and maritime theme continuing inside, it was the perfect stop on a Saturday night tour of the town when my mom and dad were visiting last week. My dad had fish and chips on his English must-do list, as he had fond memories of enjoying the battered cod when one of his ships docked in Portsmouth years ago.

We went a little after 9pm, so it was less crowded than we expected, though we should have realized with it being a Saturday night in August. We had ample space and time to talk to the staff (hi, Jack!) about the new chef Tim Peirson, formerly of Angler. It’s slammed on Friday nights (no surprise there) with the after-work, after-pub crowd. The trick is to go on Saturdays for lunch or dinner like we did for less wait. The boys ordered a couple of pints while my mom and I went for glasses of crisp white wine.

We pondered the menu for less than 90 seconds before ordering traditional fish and chips with mushy peas. Within fifteen minutes, Jack returned with curried-spice batter fish and extra crispy chips, served on charming trays with the Notting Gill newspaper. We all agreed it was the best fish and chips we’d ever had! Our bellies were so full that trying any other dishes on the menu will have to wait till another time (I’ve heard the Lobster Thermi-Buns are to die for — though when it comes to doughnuts filled with crustacean meat I think the ones at Chiltern are hard to beat).

The fish and chips came out piping hot, so we dove right in!

Ps – We’re hoping this becomes a permanent fixture! The idea is apparently swirling around in the owners’ heads, but no official plans have been made yet. The NGC has extended its pop-up until September 24, so if you’re in town be sure to stop by. Notting Gill Chippy, 201 Kensington Church Street, W8 7LX.

April 14, 2015

The Best Avocado Toast

Spring has sprung! Each morning I have been opening the shutters and throwing up the sash {well, we have no shutters, but I have been swiftly unlocking and opening our big bay windows to let the fresh air and occasional flying creature in}. The sweaters are put away and we’ve been dining solely on lighter fare. For lunch, enter avocado toast. By now, we all know this has become a menu staple {lucky for restaurants, this must be a steal to make}. I’ve been doing my due diligence to find the very best in London, or at least in W8 and W11 should you find yourself in this part of town:

1. Le Pain Quotidien – This is my go to. There are two Le Pains within very easy walking distance of us, plus with so many locations in London and really everywhere else – hi New York! – this is a great choice. It’s under the Tartines section of the menu and comes out in four halves, two slices of toast. The citrus cumin salt {sea salt, cumin, lemon zest and red pepper flakes} they sprinkle on top of the mashed up avocados makes it a blue ribbon winner for me. Also, you can probably tell by the photos I really dig green juices. Get LPQ’s Revitalizer {it may just be seasonal, so go quick!}. It’s the best: tart, delicious and healthy tasting all in one sip. (Most visited location by yours truly: 81-85 Notting Hill Gate, London W11 3JS, Tele: 020 3657 6938)

2. The Daylesford – If I could have this every day, I would. It’s one of my favorite shops in London and I’m really dying to explore their organic farm out in Gloucestershire. The only downside {for consumption of avocado toast, and life overall} is the limited amount of time I’m able to spend down on Westbourne Grove. If it were closer — even though it’s just a 15 minute walk from our home — this would take over as numero uno. It mixes slightly mashed avocados with fresh heritage tomatoes, drizzled with olive oil and fresh greens on top. Pair with one of their delicious lattes or green juices and prepare to dream about it in your sleep. Ps – go downstairs in their home goods section for beautiful wares. The lavender candle is my favorite, and upstairs in the store I always purchase a bag of their linseed porridge. (208-212 Westbourne Grove, London W11 2RH, Tele 020 7313 8050)

3. Granger & Co. – Ben quotes Yogi Berra whenever I mention Granger — ‘that place, it’s so crowded no one ever goes there anymore.’ It’s true! Whenever there’s talk of brunch/lunch, this place is sadly quickly discarded due to the long lines of visitors wrapped around the block by 10am. However, if you can sneak in there on a weekday morning like I do, you’ll find yourself an Aussie version of avocado toast: two thick pieces of rye bread, sliced avocados on top like little solders, a blanket of freshly snipped parsley, and served with a lime wedge. Bonus: have it with the poached egg. Divine. (175 Westbourne Grove, London W11 2SB, Tele 020 7229 9111)

Happy eating! x.

March 28, 2015

Letting Nostalgia In

Me on a morning run back on the West Side Highway stopping to pose with the lady herself.

I have to admit, this spring has started a little differently for me than I’m used to. Normally, I’m kicking off my winter boots in full force, testing the weather to see if I can get away going to work without tights on and practically prancing around city streets when cafes finally start putting their tables back outside. Sidewalk cafe culture is a real thing, people, and it’s amazing.

And usually, all of this takes place in New York. Where I lived for the previous five springs {and summers, falls and winters, too}. I’m having a bit of nostalgia for a different time where I walked down the street and could hear cabs honking as they raced down Carmine Street {I never understood this — it was only two blocks long in its entirety} and could sample eight different types of cheese at Murray’s while getting a full lesson on each before selecting just a few to serve my friends later that night back at my apartment. I miss the bizarre street festivals that would pop up on Sixth Avenue for the entire Saturday, halting all traffic and bringing so many people out to buy roasted corn on the cob and sliced up watermelon. Playing endless rounds of ping pong at The Standard on Sunday afternoons after too many bellinis over brunch at Paradou. Morning runs on the West Side Highway with One World Trade Center and Lady Liberty in full view. Even my old super who used to wish me a good day at work every single morning, and comment on tomorrow’s expected weather every single evening. I miss the electricity of the city; it’s like the street grids worked as surging energy lines that fueled the endless hustle of its people.

Instead of rushing through the hard feelings, I’m trying to let myself just experience them. I’m growing to love London with its charming streets and poised demeanor. New restaurants are opening all the time, and goodness are they incredible. I love the different themes and cultural influences that flow into each. I love that we’re known by name in our corner pub The Mall Tavern — and they usually have a table waiting for us on Sunday afternoons for roast. The museums with jaw dropping permanent collections, and experiencing limited time exhibitions. The champagne and towers of scones that come with a special afternoon tea. The ease at which we can travel to other countries is obviously unparalleled {Italy next weekend — counting down the days to tasty gelato}. And the many family and friends that have plans in the coming months to see our new home together.

So London is winning me over slowly but surely, but I would be remiss if I didn’t say I have been longing for the city. My city. My New York. I’ve heard Londoners know how to enjoy good weather, and it doesn’t really rain here as often as people think {I swear it’s only six days a week}. So bring on the Pimm’s and outdoor pubs, lounging in Hyde Park and runs with my husband, international travels and dinner parties with friends. London, I’m ready to make some new memories. Let’s hear it for spring.

B picking me up at Heathrow after flying to meet him in London. The sign says it all.

March 21, 2015

Visiting Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty

I’m still in awe from my visit this week to the Victoria & Albert Museum, where I took in the Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty retrospective during its opening week. I was thrilled to go since I couldn’t make it to the NY show a few years back during its run at the Met. It was a beautiful display of this creative designer’s dark and dramatic romanticism from the beginning of his career as a tailor on Savile Row to his final seasons. The exhibit really delved deeply into his psyche, offering why he was so interested in balancing beauty with the grotesque, and mixing so many different materials. I especially loved his modern MacQueen tartan designed garments from his A/W 1995 Highland show, a tribute to his Scottish heritage.

It was amazing how he could take things normally so very displeasing to the eye, and make them so incredibly beautiful. I couldn’t tear myself away from some of his pieces. The most impressive space to me was the Cabinet of Curiosities, a breathtakingly tall area in the center of the winding rooms within the exhibition. It showcased a montage of his dresses, headdresses {truly ingenious works of art}, shoes {the armadillo was widely displayed} and other accessories.

In the center of this striking display was a video from his 1999 S/S RTW show of Shalom Harlow rotating on a turntable, being spray painted by two robots. I’d seen it awhile back, but it honestly stunned me to see the film again it amidst all these darkly beautiful things he designed. The other amazing film I have to mention was the ethereal Kate Moss hologram inside a glass pyramid from his 2006 Widows of Culloden show in Paris. I was surprised and delighted around every turn, something you hope for but certainly don’t expect, in a show.

I won’t tell you too much more, but just to go see it! It’s already broken records of being the V&A’s most popular show ever. It sold 70,000 tickets before opening day, more than any other show they’ve hosted before. It was sold out the day I went, so I recommend booking far in advance.The exhibit doesn’t allow photography or sketching, so even though it’s busy, it still moves at a good pace. It’s a great idea for your summer visitors to book tickets if they’re into art, fashion or design — and do it now! It’s an experience you won’t want to miss.

Runs now through August 2. For tickets and other information visit the V&A website here.

March 20, 2015

Where to Find the Best Macarons in London

Seeing as it’s National Macaron Day, I’m sharing my favorite bakeries for these trendy treats that are just everywhere these days. They’re a perfect sendoff from weddings, and I love to serve them after dinner as a sweet, light dessert. It’s such fun to see everyone’s eyes light up as they try different flavors and gush about their favorite kinds. Enjoy!

Anges de Sucre: I’ve professed my love for this sweet little shop multiple times with its delicious marshmallows, muffles {marshmallow truffles — I mean, come on, so good}, and of course macarons. The name alone is enough to fall in love — it’s “sugar angels” in French. Located off Kensington Church Street, my favorites are Death by Chocolate and Pistache Vera Pistachio.

Ladurée: This Parisian patisserie is no secret in France, here or across the pond {my parents, best friend and I stood in line for literally two hours when the first NY shop opened on Madison & 72nd}, and they have multiple locations here in London. Just as beautiful as the macarons are their gorgeous collectable boxes. When we were in Paris they had a pineapple box — perfection!

Pierre Hermé: Located inside Selfridge’s {and they also have a shop in Belgravia}, this also Parisian outpost creates true works of art with their sweets and macarons. The flavors are beyond, with options like Infiniment Caramel {salted-butter caramel} and Celeste {passion fruit, rhubarb and strawberries}. Today, they’re also offering one of their iconic 25 macarons to anyone who makes a donation through them to the Cystic Fibrosis Trust.

Whole Foods: You can actually snag delicious macarons from the bakery area for just £1 each, which is the littlest amount I’ve seen for this pint-sized treats. They’re perfect for picking up when you’re short on time and are interested in favorite flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and rose.

March 15, 2015

Weekend Escape

This weekend we ventured out of the city to the countryside, and are feeling so refreshed. There’s something about reconnecting with nature with long walks across rolling hills in the misty mornings, seeing sheep over the fields, and just talking with one another over bottles of wine.

We’ve been staying at a gorgeous bed and breakfast called The Dial House. Located in Bourton-on-the-Water, it’s picturesque, wonderfully hospitable and the food has been beyond what I had ever expected in the country. We had a seven-course tasting menu that we swear turned into fifteen, and would give many restaurants back in London a run for their money. Soon we head back for the homestead, but we’re soaking up every last minute in the Cotswolds until then.

February 25, 2015

Fave Date Night Spots in London

If you’re anything like me, by the time Wednesday rolls around my mind is on weekend plans {cue Hump Day Syndrome}. Those plans include what we’re going to do together around London, and of course, what we’re going to eat. I can’t help it!

Of course, as much as I enjoy entertaining at home, we love going out to dinner. Over the past several months we’ve gathered a few go-to spots for date night, though they’re perfect with friends and visitors too. Here are our top five:

E&O: This cool little spot is always buzzing when we walk in the door, and totally sets the tone for a fun night. E&O is a vibrant, contemporary pan-Asian restaurant that provides quick service {sometimes I’m shocked how fast the food comes out}, delicious cocktails and we’ve loved everything we have ever ordered. Don’t miss: the Chili Salt Squid to start and Black Miso Cod. I’m dreaming of this now…

Le Boudin Blanc: Everything about this rustic, elegant French bistro warms my heart with memories of romantic dinners and many hours spent across the table from my husband in the candlelight. It is one of my favorites in all of London, and still holds the #1 spot for French onion soup {really, it’s so good}. Don’t miss: the French onion soup and creme brûlée.

Modern Pineapple French Onion Soup The fantastic French onion soup at LBB.

Osteria Basilico: Located on Kensington Park Road just across the street from E&O, this little Italian spot makes me feel like we’ve been transported to the Italian countryside with its scrubbed wooden tables and authentic food. It’s always bustling, happy and comforting. My favorite table is downstairs underneath the staircase. Don’t miss: the antipasti and any of the tasty thin crust pizzas.

The Shed: I have to include this place… we live literally a stone’s throw away from the front door! It’s not just the location but how fun it is. Created by three brothers who wanted an extension of their lifestyle in West Sussex, their menu is focused on “nose to tail” cooking and it changes daily. The eclectic farm-inspired interior is charming and quirky. Don’t miss: the Daily Loosener to start your night and anything under Slow Cooking.

West Thirty Six: We just went here last weekend for the first time, and it far exceeded our expectations. Located on Golbourne Road, it really brings that urban grit to its four-story grill house/cocktail joint. W36 just opened a few weeks ago from the team who own Beach Blanket Babylon in Notting Hill, but it won’t be long before it’s a local favorite. Don’t miss: the crab and avocado trifle, rotisserie chicken and the warm apple pie {they serve it straight out of the pie dish at your table!}.

W36’s chicken – it was beyond amazing {this is just the half, come hungry!} and was the first thing we smelled when we walked in the door.

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