Meet Leighann
“I grew up mainly in Shanghai, moved to California for university, and eventually found my way to London for my Master’s. I’ve now been here for a little over three years, and it truly feels like home. I love how international and alive the city feels, fast-paced but never overwhelming, creative yet classic. There’s an energy here that’s impossible to replicate, and some of the best Chinese food I’ve found outside Asia makes it feel like a piece of Shanghai is always with me. I spend most of my time exploring new restaurants, discovering dessert spots, watching football matches, getting a drink with friends and falling a little more in love with London each season.”
What’s your go-to neighborhood in London?
“Marylebone will forever be one of my favorite neighborhoods in London. On a sunny Sunday, there’s nothing better than starting the morning at the Marylebone Farmers Market, then wandering along Chiltern Street for a little shopping. The best coffee in London, in my opinion, is at Hagen, and Alleycats serves some of my favorite pizza in the city. A short walk away, Blk Cab does incredible matchas, conveniently located right next to Selfridges. For dinner, I love a casual Japanese evening at Cocoro. Their menu is extensive, the fish quality is exceptional, and the foie gras nigiri is a must-try. Another recent favorite is Kima, a high-end modern Greek restaurant tucked just off of high street.”
What’s your favorite vintage spot or area to shop?
“One of my favorite hidden spots is The Vintage Fur Garden in Notting Hill. A friend introduced me to it, and it has become one of my favorite stores for incredible secondhand winter fur coats and also stunning vintage jewelry! The selection is beautiful, the prices are fantastic for the top quality, and the manager and staff are all so kind and helpful!”
Where do you go in London for a meal that never disappoints?
“Recently, I’ve fallen in love with Eel Sushi in Notting Hill, a new restaurant opening from the same team behind The Dorian. It’s intimate, casual yet sleek, with bar seating only. The fish quality is one of the best I’ve experienced in London, and the scallop nigiri is quite possibly one of the most exquisite bites I’ve ever had in this city.”
Where do you head for a drink on the weekend vs on a weekday?
“On weekdays, I love heading to The George in Fitzrovia for an after-work drink. It’s chic, lively, and often has live music, which makes it the perfect midweek spot. If you’re in the mood for a bite, the food is delicious, and the scotch egg deserves a special mention. On weekends, The Roof Gardens in South Ken is currently one of my favorites. The perfect place if you love good cocktails, great vibes and a gorgeously designed space. If clubbing is in the picture, The Gallery is just a few minutes walk away for a proper night out. It’s a fancy tech house club but tucked away inside a vintage phone booth at the back, The VIP Room is a hidden gem for old-school music, drinks, and dancing.”
Favorite day trip or quick escape from London?
“I love that Hampstead feels like an escape from central London. Long walks through the Heath with my sister and our dogs are my favorite way to unwind, especially in autumn when the leaves change. It’s so beautiful and peaceful that you almost forget you’re still in the city. But if I really want to get away, the Cotswolds is the perfect escape. I love taking a spontaneous road trip up there for the weekend and exploring the smaller towns, each with its own personality and charm.”
What do you say to people who claim you don’t eat well in London?
“I never agree when people say you don’t eat well in London, you just need to know where to go. For example, Supermarket of Dreams in Holland Park does a “Tuna Fight Club” where they bring out a 200-pound bluefin tuna and slice it open live. It’s wild, theatrical, and genuinely one of the best bites in London. I also always mention Cantinetta Antinori in Knightsbridge. My boyfriend is Italian and extremely picky about Italian restaurants in London, and he’s a big fan. They do very simple classic Italian dishes and everything I have tried is fantastic, but the pistachio tiramisu deserves its own fan club.”
The best way to know a city is through the people who call it home. Ask a Local is our ongoing series of personal recommendations from around the world.
