Antonia Thomas

We find that pizza beyond the borders of Naples (let alone outside Italy’s glorious boot) is rarely up to snuff, but Sweet Thursday is here to prove us wrong. This, er, sweet little spot churns out great Neapolitan pizzas from their charming outpost in De Beauvoir town. On your way out, you can grab a bottle of organic Italian wine to-go. 

Located in Santa Maria Novella is the comfortable townhouse Casa Howard. This boutique hotel is nicely designed with great service and a great location. We recommend the 'library' room, filled with beautiful details and stories. 

London is teeming with spectacular vintage shops but this one, which has been curating pre-owned designer pieces in perfect condition since the 1970s, is a standout. Sign of the Times opened as a way for celebrities to resell pieces; these days stylists visit to source looks. As well as big-ticket items (if you’re ever going to find a secondhand Birkin it’s here), there are stacks of cashmere jumpers and costume jewellery finds. Locals are known to pop in several times a week to see what’s new. Note: it’s not cheap.

Book your dream wedding at this stunning private estate with stunning views over Florence. Villa Il Garofalo is a testament of timeless elegance, and is the perfect spot for your luxurious wedding or an ultra-chic dinner party. Whatever brings you here, be prepared to feel like you are in a movie. 

London is not a city short of wine bars and small plates. So when such a place becomes as renown as Bar Crispin you know it's going to be good. Headed by chef Fabien Spagnolo (who rustles up dishes such as crispy polenta, fried prawn sando, and devilled brown crab) and sommelier Alex Price who is an expert in low-intervention wines. This is not a spot to miss. 

From the brotherhood of Top Cuvée comes Cave Cuvée. An intimate wine bar come bottle shop which is the perfect place to come with friends, relax, and chat with a glass of the freshest pet-nat in your hand. Hot dogs, charcuterie, and even oysters are on the menu for when you're feeling peckish. 

A sandwich board outside displays a customer review: “Hectic on weekends… baking was good… not quite worth the hype.” Which shows the confidence and humour of this Italian bakery, which serves London’s most-photographed cream buns. The maritozzi are bursting, dusted in thick icing sugar, and the croissants are also injected with pistachio and lemon cream. Plus, there are pizza slices that are actually worth the hype.

The lotus-root crisps and sushi-heavy set menu at this spot inspired by a Japanese izakaya draw the crowds. But regulars end up coming back for the jazz nights and DJ sets – it’s open until 1.30am at weekends. Note: this is only a good idea if you’re up for a dimly lit and noisy night. 

At Little Duck The Picklery, they have a passion for all things pickled—kimchi, kombucha, vinegar, you name it. But what really sets them apart is how they pair these pickled gems with delicious natural wine and charming small plates. Grab the table by the window for a romantic, candlelit dinner. 

Pockets is a petite place with a magnetic force. Many locals and food enthusiasts agree that Pockets has London’s best falafel pita, which we encourage you to try! This plant-based gem offers unparalleled street food and a queue that is definitely worth the wait. It is a quick and easy yet exceptional lunch option if you find yourself in Hackney.