London And Life: Food, Travel, And Unexpected Joy In My Late 30s
I made it, Ma!
That grateful moment to have finally made it to the London famous Borough Market!
Stepping off the plane and into the heart of London in my 30s felt like opening a long-awaited chapter. It wasn't the wide-eyed, slightly overwhelmed rush of a youthful backpacker, but rather a cultivated anticipation, a desire to savor every moment.
The 'where to go' and 'what to do' conversations flowed easily, a chorus of recommendations from seasoned London visitors. Yet, as a dedicated foodie, the most enticing whispers were always about the city's culinary landscape. 'You have to visit the Borough Market,' they'd say, eyes gleaming, or 'Don't miss the afternoon tea at The Wolseley.' Each suggestion was a tantalizing clue, a promise of flavors waiting to be discovered.
London, I quickly learned, is a city that feeds the soul as much as the stomach. The historic pubs, with their warm, ale-infused air and hearty pies, offered a comforting embrace. The vibrant street food scene, a testament to the city's diverse population, delivered a kaleidoscope of tastes from around the globe.
And then there were the Michelin-starred restaurants, where culinary artistry reached breathtaking heights. It wasn't just about eating; it was about experiencing London through its food, understanding its history and culture one bite at a time.
This trip wasn't a race to tick off landmarks, but a leisurely exploration of flavors, a delicious journey of discovery.
At the time of these images, I was in my (very) late 30s, and I think in the years, travel becomes less about proving something and more about truly connecting with a place. London, with its blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy, offered the perfect backdrop for this kind of exploration.
Each meal was a story, each cafe a potential haven, each market stall a treasure trove of local delights. I found myself lingering over cups of tea, savoring the rich aromas of food at the markets, and engaging in conversations with old friends that would connect with me. It was a different kind of excitement, a more grounded and appreciative one, a realization that in my 30's I was finally ready to truly taste the world, starting with the vibrant and delicious heart of London.
Shot below, The Victoria Pub in Paddington was a quick brunch stop during one of our layovers to Portugal. I highly recommend if you had time between flights, and can manage a few hours outside of the airport. This is a truly classic London pub, rich in history and atmosphere. Don’t fret, I was in London for an actual visit, but I couldn’t help but share this moment with you, because this pub was one we couldn’t pass up while in transit.
A Victorian-era pub, built in 1837, with connections to the time of Queen Victoria. There are even stories of her visiting this place!
Located in Paddington, The Victorian is easily accessible from Paddington Station.
A very old, beautiful interior, with fittings that are rare survivals from the mid-Victorian period.
We stayed for brunch, and ordered the sautéed wild mushrooms & spinach on toast with a couple of pints of beer, of course
A couple of pints of beer to wash our brunch down.
Upstairs is a “Theatre Bar” with fittings rescued from the old Gaiety Theatre, adding just more layers of Victorian charm.
A few historical significances I learned while browsing through the restaurant. Charles Dickens is said to have written parts of “Our Mutual Friend” there, David Bowie also performed here in his early career, and the pub itself has this very old, beautiful interior, with fittings that are rare survivals from the mid-Victorian period. As Black Taxi Tour London once stated, ‘the pub has stunning original features, including ornate, gilded mirrors, wood paneling and a very classic bar.’
My visits to London wouldn't be complete without catching up with friends, and my recent trip led me straight to the iconic Ned for an experience that truly redefined 'brunch.' Forget your standard eggs and toast; we were diving headfirst into a world of culinary extravagance. The promise of an 'all-you-can-eat' brunch is always tempting, and Ned elevates it to an art form.
Imagine a sprawling, elegant setting, buzzing with energy, live music, and where every food station is a literal masterpiece. From fresh seafood platters piled high with oysters and prawns to perfectly roasted meats and vibrant salads, the sheer variety was astounding. And then, there was the champagne. A constant, delightful flow of Thiénot Brut–in a coupe glass, too! How classy–adding a touch of celebration to every bite.
It wasn't just about the quantity, though. The quality of the food was exceptional. We savored every moment, indulging in the flavors (and the good company,) as the champagne glasses were continuously refilled. The atmosphere was electric, a blend of sophisticated dining and relaxed conviviality.
This wasn't just brunch; it was an experience. A luxurious, indulgent, and utterly memorable way to spend a Sunday in the heart of London. It was a perfect way to catch up with a friend, and a perfect way to enjoy a London afternoon. If you're looking for a brunch that goes beyond the ordinary, The Ned on a Sunday is an absolute must.
The Ned occupies the former Midland Bank headquarters, a massive and stunningly preserved building designed by Sir Edwin "Ned" Lutyens (hence the name.) The building itself is a piece of London's financial history, adding a layer of intrigue and sophistication.
The safe and vault at The Ned are very much real, and they are a significant part of the building's history and current appeal. It's not just a decorative feature; it's the genuine, heavy-duty bank vault.
You can find the vault in the basement, where it was the original bank strongroom. Now transformed into a stylish bar and lounge, called The Vault Bar & Lounge, is part of The Ned’s Club Downstairs.
My London adventure, though filled with delightful discoveries and cherished moments with friends, only scratched the surface of this vibrant city. There's so much more to explore, so many hidden cafes to uncover, and countless culinary gems waiting to be savored. The allure of London's diverse food scene, from its traditional pubs to its innovative restaurants, is simply irresistible.
More than the landmarks or the attractions, it's the connections that truly make a city come alive. Catching up with friends in such a dynamic setting added a layer of warmth and familiarity to my experience. London, with its endless possibilities, has left me eager to return, to delve deeper into its neighborhoods, and to create more memories with the people I hold dear.
Until next time, London, I'll be dreaming of your bustling markets, cozy cafes, and the laughter shared with friends. The promise of more delicious adventures and heartwarming reunions is already calling me back.
Chris & Marcus
This may not be London, but we had to visit friends in Manchester too!
Megan & I
Pho with the Grells!
