In our regular series, we ask famous chefs and personalities to tell us all about 'their London'. From top tips on where to dine in the city, to their personal haunts ranging from bakeries to book shops, we’ve got the inside track on London’s premier spots from the people who know it best.
There are few chefs who have made quite as sizeable an imprint on their industry as Anne-Sophie Pic. Not only has she reached the gastronomic pinnacle with Three MICHELIN Stars for Pic in Valence, but she’s succeeded beyond her native France, with Stars in Dubai, Hong Kong, Lausanne and London, with La Dame de Pic London having closed in February 2025 after several years holding Two Stars. Her combination of local London knowledge and sparkling culinary experience therefore make her an ideal person to give you the lowdown on where to eat in London.
What's your go-to restaurant for a celebration?
Aulis restaurant by Simon Rogan in Soho is incredible for a celebration. It offers a very intimate setting and an exquisite dining experience. Simon Rogan is known for his creative cuisine, crafted from seasonal produce grown on his farm located in Cartmel Valley.Learn more about Aulis, directly from The MICHELIN Guide's Inspectors.
As a French chef, where do you think are the best places for French food in London?
Pavyllon London in Mayfair by Yannick Alléno offers exceptional French cuisine. The restaurant offers exceptional dishes that artfully blend tradition with bold, innovative flavours. Yannick Alléno’s constant pursuit of pushing culinary boundaries is something that I deeply admire and share.
Where would you recommend for a romantic date?
CORE by Clare Smyth is a highly refined restaurant that beautifully reflects Clare’s delicate culinary identity. Her meticulous approach to sourcing ingredients is remarkable and results in some of the finest dishes.
What is your favourite thing to do in London?
I like to walk around the Chelsea Physic Garden, especially admiring its beautiful collection of geraniums.Which is your favourite area of London?
Chelsea and Bermondsey are my favourite areas of London. Chelsea stands out with its vibrant culinary scene, while Bermondsey offers a dynamic and avant-garde atmosphere.
What is your favourite London bakery or café?
Postcard Teas offers a unique selection of teas and a warm, cosy atmosphere that makes me feel very welcome.What is your favourite London museum or art gallery?
I really enjoy visiting the Tate Modern, which always presents inspiring collections of contemporary arts.
Do you have a favourite bar in London?
The Connaught Bar in Mayfair is exceptional, both for its art deco interior and the incredible work of its mixologists. The martini there is a classic!Where do you like to buy produce in London?
Spa Terminus is one of my favourite places to buy produce in London. It’s a hub for food production and distribution, where many of the producers open their shutters to the public on Fridays and Saturdays, offering an incredible selection of high-quality ingredients.Address Book
Chelsea Physic Garden, 66 Royal Hospital Rd, London, SW3 4HSPostcard Teas, 9 Dering St, London, W1S 1AG
Spa Terminus, Dockley Rd, London, SE16 3FJ
Tate Modern, Bankside, London, SE1 9TG
Hero Image: © Anne-Emmanuelle Thion
