The Traditional Shops & Restaurants of London

More about the book

This book features profiles of over fifty establishments that have catered to royalty and discerning customers for more than a century. Winston Churchill famously noted the importance of quality, mentioning shops like Locks for hats and Lobbs for shoes. Thankfully, these storied businesses continue to thrive, offering traditional British goods and food to Londoners. Among the highlighted establishments are over thirty historic stores and around twenty eateries. For instance, John Lobb, Bootmaker in Mayfair, is described as "the most beautiful shop in the world" by Esquire, while Paxton and Whitfield, established in 1742, is renowned for its artisanal cheeses. The Grapes Pub, dating back to 1720, was frequented by Charles Dickens, who immortalized it in his work. Many of these establishments hold the Royal Warrant, a mark of excellence dating back to the 15th century. The book showcases a variety of bespoke shops, including shirt-makers, hatters, perfumers, and chocolatiers, all situated in charming locations across London. It also features traditional dining options, from picturesque pubs and cafés to fish and chips stands and eel-and-pie shops, celebrating the rich culinary heritage of the city.