Travel Tips - Drinking

For an authentic laid-back atmosphere with a real kick-start coffee aroma, there are few places like Ray’s Jazz Cafe in Foyle’s Bookshop. As much as the famous Charing Cross Road branch of Foyle’s has become a safe-haven for the literary minded, their recently rejuvenated first-floor lunchroom offers a relaxing mixture of cool music, great food and freshly-brewed blends – setting it in complete contrast to the sterile coffee-house chains that have taken over the city.

The wide range of organic freshly-made food – from out-of-the-oven quiches to scrumptious salmon bagels and pastries – is also what separates this cafe from its lowly generic counterparts. Another feather in their cap is the reliable free wi-fi service that they provide, although you will find most patrons prefer to sit back with a light refreshment and an engrossing novel. If you are on a whistle-stop tour of the London sights, this chilled-out refuge – halfway between the British Museum and Trafalgar Square – is an ideal place for a quick time out. Also, try to pay a visit on a mid-week evening, when they host performances with some of the most accomplished jazz musicians the city can offer.

My family and I had the most fabulous lunch at Petersham Nurseries last Sunday, a definite must for those who wish to escape the hustle and bustle of London city life.

Following a short walk through a meadow you may chose between tea and cakes in the cafe or a home grown lunch in the main restaurant. The interior is superbly picturesque, dirt floors, miss mash of antique iron furniture, eclectic rugs and second hand bottles containing pretty wild flowers. Although you should expect to pay around £30-£45 a head it is well worth it, if the main dishes are a little small.

I'd recommend the elderflower cordial, the summer chorizo salad and the eccles cakes from the coffee shop. For more information, check out their website: www.petershamnurseries.com. Oh, and don't forget your camera as there are countless photo opportunities.

London is a notoriously tricky place when it comes to finding good quality but reasonably priced food. The Hong Kong-born restaurateur Alan Yau also recognised this and after the roaring success of Wagamama has opened Cha Cha Moon, I would say the Chinese equivalent. Dishes are no more then £4, are healthy sized portions and very tasty.

I am a regular at the Carnaby St location, always a great vibe and I am totally addicted to the Cherry Soda.

If you fancy living the high life then check out Yau's Michelin star restaurant Hakkasan or Yauatcha.

This tiny, rather dilapidated bar is actually not too bad a place to enjoy a crepe before you venture into the Port of Nice. Sit outside and gaze onto the super yachts whilst tucking in to your Nutella crepe (a snip at 2.50 Euro). Avoid the hot dogs.