Pauline's Perfect Day
Breakfast
It doesn’t matter where I go for breakfast, I’ll always order the same thing — yogurt and granola with fruit. Everyone makes their signature version so it’s not as boring as you might think! I love the laidback vibe of the Chiltern Firehouse, especially when I need some ‘me’ time. I like to go on my own and take my time over coffee: I always have my sketch book with me and swatches of fabric to look at, so it’s the perfect opportunity for quality thinking and design time. The Firehouse granola is nutty — just the way I like it and usually served with berries, yum! A slow leisurely breakfast at the Firehouse is the perfect start to the day.
A spot of fresh air
I’ll take a walk up Marylebone High Street and do some window shopping. I can’t, however, be ‘out’ and not stop for coffee—that’s impossible, so I’ll pop into La Fromagerie on Moxon Street and have either a violet tea or an americano and, if I need a sugar fix, a large slice of flourless chocolate cake.
Shopping
I love the clean, simple lines of the furniture in Skandium. Quality materials, understated and beautifully constructed: a similar philosophy, in fact, to my clothing label. Daunt Books is another favourite—a great place to browse... and buy!
A new outfit
I’m in a great position: if I want an outfit I’ll have it made in my studio. I’m not a standard size, so like many of my customers I need to have fittings to achieve the perfect proportions. Then, I’ll finish my outfit off with a pair of Tracey Neuls shoes.
Culture
I might pop into Atlas and take a look at their superb collection of photographs.
Pre-dinner drinks
I’d go to Le Vieux Comptoir for a perfect glass of champagne or Hardy’s for a glass of red; they have an excellent wine list. If I’m feeling in a party mood I might pop into the Firehouse for one (or two) of their delicious cocktails.
Eating out
If I want a relaxed cosy evening I’ll dine at Hardy’s. I’m pescatarian, so if scallops, mussels or cod are on the menu, I’m in luck. I might even have all three.
Staying in
I have a weakness for scallops, so I’ll get some hand-dived scallops at Fishworks, and maybe some wild sea bass. Then I’ll walk a little further down the high street and buy a Fraisier marzipan cake from Paul. It’s a very light sponge filled with cream and strawberries, covered with the most delicate green marzipan: delicious, and very pretty. I’ll choose a selection of cheese, bread and chutney from La Fromagerie — oh, and I’d better get more of their delicious homemade granola while I’m there!
Anything else?
If I need a treat, I’ll have a foot pamper at Margaret Dabbs. That will do nicely!