Victoria Newspaper

The Food Issue / Wi nter 2013

Gizzi Ersk ine

The queen of the supper club reveals the next trends on the London foodie scene Plus: Heston Blumenthal, Victoria’s latest restaurant openings and your complete Christmas gift guide @createvictoria

facebook.com/CreateVictoria

At the forefront of London’s pop-up and supper-club scene and ahead of the curve on Korean food and five-two eating, it’s a hectic schedule for Gizzi Erskine interview jane fulcher

R ig ht and opposite G i z zi Erskine at wor k in t he kitchen and spor t ing her t radem ar k rock abilly look

in between. One of our jobs as chefs is to inform people of how to find delicious food on a budget. I think the scene has definitely changed over the past 10 years.’

So what would be Gizzi’s choice of where to eat out in London? ‘There are so many, it’s impossible to choose but I love Heston Blumenthal’s Dinner, The Ledbury, Hawksmoor, the udon noodles at Koya and Bone Daddies – its ramen is the best in the country. What the founder Ross Shonhan has done is very clever in that it has a New York feel but it’s got a real Australian twist, which is where he’s from.’

A taste of traditional London is also on Erskine’s list of favourites. ‘I love Rules – I go there all the time before going to the theatre,’ she says. ‘ I used to go there when I was growing up – it’s a testament to how good it is that it’s still alive and kicking.

The last time I went there I had the roast feather blade of beef with parsley mash – it was delicious.’

Erskine’s love for different cuisines is the perfect match for the myriad flavours and dishes available in London. But the majority of her influence comes from learning to cook in Thailand. Her mother, who spent a lot of time in Asia, always encouraged her to try new flavours and foods. ‘I was cooking with tamarind and fish sauce when other people were cooking with salt and pepper,’ she says. ‘My mum is one of my food heroes but, as a kid, I was always begging her to let us eat something “normal” like fish fingers and chips.’

Erskine has become one of the country’s best-loved – and widely read – chefs, for her creative approach to healthy eating and big flavours. She describes her own style as having ‘a north Asian base with a cocky New York twist’. New York is the place outside of London that Erskine mentions as being the most exciting, although the 34-year-old chef also loves LA. ‘America has it down,’ she says, ‘in terms of experimental food. In the UK, a lot of the focus is on provenance – but that’s a given now. In the US, it’s all about what’s interesting.’

u p d at e Welcome to the Victoria newspaper, your regular update on the transformation of Victoria. The vibrant district is fast emerging as one of London's most desirable places to live and work in – and there is no better time to see that than at Christmas. This year, the celebrations will be bigger and better than ever. Victoria BID (Business Improvement District) is installing a display of Christmas lights along Victoria Street, from the Nova, Victoria development to 62 Buckingham Gate, and is sponsoring a huge Christmas tree in Westminster Cathedral Piazza. And from 21 to 23 November, Land Securities will officially launch Christmas in Victoria at Cardinal Place. There will be a festive food market (with complimentary mulled wine and roasted chestnuts) on Cardinal Place’s roof garden, with live performances from the London Ballet Company and the West End cast of The Gruffalo, plus more to be announced.

Sign up to the Victoria newsletter at createvictoria.com for the latest news and events

Th e S u n day T i m es M aga zi n e / N e w s Sy n d i c at i o n; SEAN COO K , CAMERA PRESS LONDON . o n t h e c ov er : G iz zi er s k i n e p h oto g r a p h ed by ALAN CLAR K E/CAMERA PRESS LONDON

Get busy with the Gizzi

Buoyed by a rare lie-in, the ever-busy chef and food writer Gizzi Erskine is on effervescent form, although the zest for her job could never be truly dampened by a hectic schedule.

Gizzi lives London. She is a passionate advocate of the capital’s dining scene, having been made chairman of the London Restaurant Festival, a celebration of eating out, which took place in October.

‘It gives me a chance to raise awareness of the cool places to go, and how you can eat out affordably,’ she says. ‘There is so much variety: from incredible burgers at Meat Liquor to ground-breaking food at Michelin-star restaurants, and everything

happy about), Szechuan restaurants and more Swedish food, as the Scandinavian trend continues. I also think the baking trend will remain – I’ve never been into cupcakes but there are these amazing bakers call the Meringue Girls, who make incredible meringue kisses, made with fruit purée and loaded with flavour.’

“I love subcultures and that translates into my food – I’m basically a massive scenester” Erskine is a great supporter of fellow female foodies. And she is working with lingerie company Triumph on The Makers campaign, backing women in creative businesses. The woman whose support was invaluable to her own career, she says, was Caroline Waldegrave, principal at

Leiths School of Food and Wine when Erskine attended. ‘I was working so hard all the time to be able to afford to go to catering school – to the point that I passed out. Caroline saw that I was exhausted but said, “We need to keep you.” So she gave me back the last term’s fees and said, “I know you’ll pay me back.” It made me work extra hard to get where I am.’

Since then, she’s hardly stopped. Her last book, the best-selling Skinny Weeks And Weekend Feasts, which came out in March, is about how to keep an eye on eating healthily but treating yourself a couple of times a week. And Gizzi has her weekend feast all figured out: ‘I love fried chicken – I’d fill an entire bath with dirty fried chicken and get in it. And then for dessert I’d have a chocolate fondant with salted caramel.’ With a schedule like hers, it’s a feast that she deserves.

city in Blum

Heston Blumenthal celebrates london’s boom in both food and architecture

In Victorian times there was a real obsession with the faux-medieval or faux-Tudor. The Houses of Parliament, for example, look very Gothic so seem a lot older than they are. I have always

Gizzi Erskine’s book Skinny Weeks and

loved that kind of sense of pride in

Weekend Feasts is published by Quadrille

both what London was and is now.

Publishing, £19.99. She was appointed as the Sunday Times cook this summer

If you look across London, there’s that link with the past – you can see the city’s historical landmarks – St Paul’s, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament – but they are side-by-side with the state-of-the-art modern examples of architecture such as The Shard and 20 Fenchurch Street. And, if I think about the past decade in London, there has been a boom in food at the same time as the city’s regeneration.

I think now what’s really exciting – and I’m very lucky to feel part of it – is this pride about British food and restaurants. There were some great restaurants in the Eighties and Nineties, but it was all French cooking. Funnily enough, three of the greatest French chefs made their names in London. Marie-Antoine Carême, Britain’s first celebrity chef and inventor of the vol-au-vent, was chef to the Prince Regent (later George IV) in the 1810s. Alexis Soyer became chef at the Reform Club in 1837 and invented the modern restaurant kitchen system.

And Escoffier spent time at The Ritz, during which time he invented iconic dishes such as peach Melba.

Now what’s great is that British chefs will put a pudding, a posset or a junket on their menus – there’s a sense of pride about our food.

Heston Blumenthal has an exclusive relationship with food experience company Rhubarb to work on events for the three-storey Sky Garden atop the new landmark development, 20 Fenchurch Street; rhubarb.net

the food issue

The balance between the flavours of the West and Asia is apparent in Erskine’s choice of ingredients and comfort foods she can never be without: ‘I love roast chicken, shepherd’s pie and spaghetti Bolognese – that’s what I’m going to eat today and I’m really excited. But my cupboard is never without a ton of Asian ingredients such as chilli and oyster sauces, a range of soy sauces, ginger, garlic, mirin, rice wine vinegar and sriracha, a Thai hot sauce.

‘I’d be bored with life if I didn’t have those ingredients around – if you have a good and varied store cupboard, then you have more to play around with and create something lovely. People who love my book have complained that they can’t get hold of the ingredients but I think it’s a misconception that they are hard to buy, or expensive. You just need to find an Asian supermarket, or go online – people are just uncomfortable with pushing boundaries.’

The chef is also known for having an instantly recognisable individual look, with her trademark beehive, swing dresses and slick of eyeliner – inspired by her love of rockabilly style and music. ‘I have never been conventional,’ she says. ‘I love subcultures and that translates into my food – I’m basically a massive scenester and that’s part of the reason why I love the pop-up and supper-club scene in London.’

She is also passionate about music and tries to incorporate her love for rock’n’roll into her events. ‘Great food and great music really go together. I love going to see bands and it’s something I always try to bring into my events,’ she says.

Erskine has become a huge part of that corner of the London restaurant scene, often to be found hosting delicious, intimate and friendly supper clubs across the capital. Last year she ran a one-week pop-up, K-Town, serving moreish, spicy Korean food to convivial shared tables, along with live music and dancing. ‘That cuisine is a big passion of mine, because of my love for north Asian food,’ she says. ‘It’s pretty healthy as well, although some dishes use a lot of sugar. Everyone is saying that it’s the next big trend, but I’ve been talking about it for years! Korean food is like Japanese but with a lot of chilli, which I love – it’s fun and fiery.’

Would she open her own restaurant?

‘I’m too busy with the pop-ups and events, so not right now. It’s something I’ve thought about and I’d love to do, with my own style of cooking – but what that would be is a secret for the minute.’

According to Erskine, the other trends Londoners can look forward to include ‘more raw-food bars (which I’m really

Out to lunch, and dinner, in Victoria

Buckingham Palace

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19:00 Meet friends at La Tasca for a glass of sherry (or jug of sangriá) and tapas – including Padrón peppers. createvictoria.com

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Regency CafE An Art Deco and charmingly old-school greasy spoon on Regency Street, this film-location friendly caff is the place to head to when you’re hungover, hungry and nothing but a full English breakfast will do. 020 7821 6596

14:30 If it’s a Thursday, before 3pm, stock up at the Cardinal Place Artisan Food Market: arancini, chutney, Timmy’s pies etc

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13:00 Pick up a Scoffs hot pot (white bean, pepper & chorizo or veggie three bean & sweetcorn) on Victoria St.

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11:30 Grab a quick flat white at the cheerful Cardinal Café, upstairs at 80 Victoria Street

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A F O O D I E day i n vi c t oria : W E E K D AY 09:30 Nip by the market at Strutton Ground to pick up some clementines to eat throughout the week

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020 7730 6060, thethomascubitt.co.uk

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020 7233 7100, kazan-restaurant.com

08:30 Breakfast meeting at the new Royal Quarter Café in Wellington House, 70 Buckingham Gate. royalquartercafe.com

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020 3301 1400, blueboarlondon.com

The Queens Arms At this locals’ favourite on Warwick Way, the focus is on traditional roasts of beautifully cooked meat with big, fluffy Yorkshire puddings and all the trimmings. The juicy rib of beef is a real crowd-pleaser. 020 7834 3313,

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The Phoenix Best for brunch At the quirky and friendly Phoenix Blue Boar CA Warwick M BR Gardens I DG Pub on Palace Street, lazy SundaysAare A newcomer to Tothill Street, E ST LD RE ER all about relaxing with a killer Bloody NEY BlueETBoar serves classic American ST RE AY KW U Mary and classicEBpub roast. AIn E T breakfast dishes such as waffles and I Cthe R RW Y W B R ID warmer months, it also bacon, but its signature smokehouse G serves its E roasts as salads. 020 7828 8136, specialities, such as ribs, may tempt you too. Sunday Brunch comes with geronimo-inns.co.uk/ unlimited Bloody Marys or Bucks Fizz. thephoenixinvictoria

Thomas Cubitt A fashionable pub with excellent food, the Thomas Cubitt on Elizabeth Street is the go-to spot for an indulgent, upmarket Sunday roast in welcoming surroundings. Try the Gressingham duck or the West Devon lamb.

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Kazan With friendly staff serving robust flavours, including succulent fire-grilled lamb, this stylish Turkish restaurant on Wilton Road is the ideal spot for a sociable lunch with clients or colleagues.

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020 7730 5524, bakerandspice.uk.com

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Boisdale of Belgravia With fantastic game, Scottish salmon and trout, a cigar terrace, extensive whisky menu and live music, Boisdale on Eccleston Street is great for entertaining.

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Baker & Spice With the smell of freshly baked cakes and bread, not to mention ground coffee wafting down Elizabeth Street, it’s no wonder this chic café and bakery is always bustling with loyal customers.

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Tomtom Coffee House One of the best London coffee shops, Tomtom, on Ebury Street, is small but perfectly formed and serves expertly crafted, freshly roasted coffees, and delicious sweet and savoury bites.

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Grand Imperial This sophisticated Cantonese restaurant on Buckingham Palace Road is known for exquisite, authentic dim sum, Peking duck, and delicacies such as abalone, lobster and whole steamed turbot. 020 7821 8898,

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Peggy Porschen Parlour Baker to the stars Peggy Porschen opened her irresistibly pink parlour on Ebury Street in 2010. Indulge in a cappuccino and a Black Forest cupcake with kirsch and vanilla-cream cheese.

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Roux at Parliament Square Legendary chef Michel Roux Jnr’s elegant modern European and British restaurant on Great George Street serves an expertly crafted and beautiful menu of seasonal, mainly British produce. 020 7334 3737,

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Quilon The only South Indian restaurant in the world to have a Michelin star, Quilon on Buckingham Gate is famed for its beautifully spiced fish and seafood dishes. Don’t miss the baked black cod.

Bank Westminster Bank Westminster on Buckingham Gate serves delicious brasserie-style classics with a twist, including mouthwatering meat and fish cooked on a charcoal Josper grill or in a Tandoor clay oven. 020 7630 6644,

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t h e r e ’ s a r e s ta u r a n t o r c a f é f o r e v e r y o c c a s i o n a n d p a l at e i n v i c t o r i a – a n d i t ’ s o n ly g e t t i n g b e t t e r . w e l i s t s o m e o f t h e b e s t

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Olivo Tate Britain C a local group PartERof of restaurants RI H A (including one specialising in fish, a TT ER CU BU RE RY TO S TR pizza and pasta joint and a gelateria), N EE ST T Olivo on Eccleston Street offers delicious Sardinian food and good wine – a cosy place to linger with a loved one.

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HA Pimlico Fresh DO LL UG BR L This Wilton a favourite I D Road caféASis ST GE RE ET RO with locals for its A Dhealthy salads and excellent vegetarian options, but is also worth visiting at brunch for the PIMLICO Monmouth coffee, baked eggs with chorizo and French toast.

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020 7730 2505, olivorestaurants.com

Best for a date

Cask & Glass

the Orange

39/41 Palace Street, SW1 5HN

37 Pimlico Road, SW1W 8NE

This tiny Victorian pub is one of London’s smallest and describes itself as a country pub in the heart of the city.

With its hanging baskets, it’s certainly one of the most agricultural-looking.

The history of this dining pub and hotel (run by the team behind the Thomas Cubitt) is recorded back to 1776, when it was the Orange Coffee House and Tavern.

Millbank Tower

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23 Francis Street, SW1P 1DN

Some harrumphed when The Cardinal was refurbished and renamed but it turned out The Windsor Castle was the original name, and the old glass partitions between bars were restored.

St George’s Tavern

The Dining Room The Goring Hotel on Beeston Place has an award-winning and intimate British restaurant, known for its refined, traditional cuisine.

Try a classic such as Beef Wellington or Scottish lobster with mango mayo.

A Wong Dim sum literally means ‘touches to the heart’ so this lovely Cantonese restaurant on Wilton Road seems made for romantic get-togethers.

In the evening, the eight-course Taste of China sampling menu is a great way to explore the flavours.

020 7396 9000, thegoring.com

020 7828 8931, awong.co.uk

the albert

14 Belgrave Road, SW1V 1QD

52 Victoria Street, SW1H 0NP

Formerly a restaurant, the tavern was transformed in 1840 into a saloon with entertainment by Charles Morton, the Godfather of Music Hall.

Built in 1864, this iconic Victorian pub features original etched-glass windows.

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62 Petty France, SW1H 9EU

The Buckingham’s proudest piece of history is that it is one of only two London pubs to have featured in CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide in all 40 years of its publication.

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the windsor Castle

Strutton Arms 2 Strutton Ground, SW1P 2HP

Horse & Groom 7 Groom Place, SW1X 7BA

Tucked down a cobbled mews behind Grosvenor Place, this traditional one-bar pub was once Brian Epstein’s local – the Beatles allegedly held meetings with their manager here.

In 1951, when it was Graftons, Spike Milligan lived above the pub and the manager and radio producer Jimmy Grafton set up a stage for the first performances of The Goon Show.

Two Chairmen 39 Dartmouth Street, SW1H 9BP

Old Star 66 Broadway, SW1H 1DB

The basement of this 300-year-old pub was once part of the Crown Vaults – the alcoves in which you can enjoy a pint once stored important royal documents.

Built in 1729, the pub is named for the taxi drivers of their day – the sedan chair carriers – who would bring the aristocracy to the Royal Cockpit, which by the 18th century was a theatre and no longer used for cock fights.

A F O O D I E day i n vi c t oria : S AT U R D AY 07:00 Go to Poilâne, 46 Elizabeth Street, for the freshest sourdough loaf, baked in a woodburning oven. poilane.com

11:00 Wander over to Pimlico Road Farmers’ Market on Orange Square on Saturday to pick up some Essex oysters

12:30 Settle down to a long, leisurely lunch working through the Lebanese mezze at Noura. noura.co.uk

15:00 After walking off your lunch, treat yourself to pastéis de nata (custard tarts) at Delicias de Portugal, Warwick Way

16:30 Pop into La Bottega on Eccleston Street to buy some creamy burrata mozzarella from Puglia. labottega65.com

20:30 Dinner with friends at Wagamama – the new menu looks great but can you ever pass up a ramen? createvictoria.com

the food issue

St John’s Gardens

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for a pint in the evening, victoria has t r a d i t i o n a l t r e at s a p l e n t y

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St James’s Park

afternoon delight Victoria offers a wealth of options, from classic to quirky, for afternoon tea. For traditionalists, the Goring Hotel on Beeston Place (awarded Top London Afternoon Tea in 2013) offers the Coronation Afternoon Tea, marking the Queen’s 60th year on the throne. Start with coronation chicken sandwiches, before enjoying the majestic delicacies of rosewater Victoria sponge, Eton mess, Earl Grey macaroons and a tipsy royal red velvet slice. £39 per person.

thegoring.com For a bit of bling, head to the Taj

Season’s eatings

Hotel on Buckingham Gate where the 24-Karat Decadence Afternoon Tea offers, along with its scones and sandwiches, a glittering array of treats adorned with edible gold, from scrumptious chocolate gateau to sweet strawberry tart, all served with gold-flecked champagne. £99

w h e t h e r y o u r c h r i s t m a s i s p l a n n e d a h e a d o r a l a s t- m i n u t e da s h , o n e t h i n g yo u c a n b e s u r e o f i n v i c to r i a i s t h e m a n y o p p o r t u n i e s t o e at, d r i n k a n d b e m e r r y W o r ds t a m s i n c r i m m e n s i l l u st r a ti o n t o b y t r i u m p h

for two (book 24 hours in advance).

tajhotels.com At the Grosvenor Hotel’s Grand Imperial restaurant, on Buckingham Palace Road, the Cantonese tea is ideal for those who prefer a savoury

Victoria’s residents have been keeping a secret. Some of the finest specialist food stores, and stalls, in London are right on the doorstep, nestled in among the big retailers a lot of us have come to rely on for a decadent Christmas Day. Marks & Spencer has rescued many a last-minute Christmas Scrooge and is perfect for picking up canapés for impromptu parties or an eleventh-hour gift of sugar-crusted panettone. But call by its branch at Cardinal Place on a Thursday and you’ll also find a bustling food market, with specialist stalls selling cheese, charcuterie and artisan extras, such as vinegars, preserves and chutneys.

Next stop should be Little Waitrose on Victoria Street, where Heston

Blumenthal’s specialist range adds a quirky personal touch to the festive fare.

Hotly anticipated this year is his Hidden Chocolate Christmas pudding and an Earl Grey tea stollen.

The sweet of tooth should move on to Ebury Street where, if you crave a Christmas cupcake, Peggy Porschen Parlour offers flavours such as mulled wine, gingerbread and sugar plum.

Boxed up, they make a gorgeous gift.

No foodie tour of Victoria is complete without a visit to Upper Tachbrook Street, with its food market and rash of independent food shops.

Chocodeli is an old-fashioned sweet shop serving delicate macaroons (freshly made each day by a dedicated

French chef ); handmade spiced ginger chocolates; and chocolate pizzas - the kind of treat any child would relish.

No matter how full you are, Christmas Day would not be complete without the indulgence of a cheeseboard, complete with chutneys, pickles and biscuits. So, while you’re on Upper Tachbrook Street, call into Rippon Cheese, a Victoria institution for some 20 years, stocking more than 500 types of cheese, from sensational one-offs to a whole wall full of classic Cheddar.

With the most important element of the festive season sorted, all that’s left to do is cut a slice of Heston’s stollen and pour a whisky – after all, Santa deserves an extra treat this year.

indulgence. Crispy aromatic duck rolls and delicate wasabi prawn, pumpkin and seafood dumplings are followed by water-chestnut rolls and baked egg tart. £22 for two.

grandimperiallondon.com Enjoying a regal location on Palace Road, The Rubens hotel has a range of classic teas with patriotic pastries, such as the British flag sandwich cake. The Queen’s Afternoon Tea comes with redcurrant semifreddo, strawberry and basil sorbet and a glass of rosé champagne. £39.50 per person. For under-12s, there’s the Prince’s and Princess’s Tea, for £15.

rubenshotel.com

Ga s t ro G i f t s F o o d i e f r i e n d s a n d f a m i ly a r e w e l l c at e r e d for in Victoria , with its many specialist s t o r e s a n d r e l i a b l e r e ta i l e r s

Licence to thrill

CHRISTMAS COFFEE

THE RIGHT MIX

Coffee and tea hamper, £95,

KitchenAid Artisan mixer, £429,

Tomtom Coffee, Ebury Street

House of Fraser, Victoria Street

The perfect gift for coffee obsessives, Tomtom’s hamper of treats includes a choice of coffee beans as well as teas and a teapot, two Petit Corona cigars, Poilâne shortbread and Bodum glasses.

Impress the cooking enthusiast in your life with a hard-working professional mixer. This one, in a metallic ‘apple cider’ finish, is good-looking enough to have on display in the kitchen all year round.

FROMAGE HOMAGE

the food issue

Th e r e ’ s n o t h i n g l i k e a r o ya l w a r r a n t t o a d d c a c h e t t o y o u r Ch r i s t m a s , a n d V i c t o r i a h a s plent y of suppliers to choose from

Buying a gift that’s fit for a queen

Quintessential British fashion brand

needn’t be a chore. Just follow Her

Burberry, the headquarters of which

Majesty’s lead and choose a supplier

are on Horseferry Road, has two Royal

with a Royal Warrant. Awarded by

Warrants: from the Queen and the

DECK THE HALLS

the Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh or

Prince of Wales. Burberry’s scents,

Biscuit decorating kit, £2.70 each,

Soft Cheese Square, £6,

the Prince of Wales to companies

accessories and iconic trench coats

Little Waitrose, Victoria Street

Bath Soft Cheese Company

providing them with goods and

make exquisite and generous gifts

services for more than five years,

for style-conscious types.

Keep children happy with Christmas stocking-shaped biscuits they can decorate themselves. What’s more, once they’re done, they can gobble up their creations before starting on a new one.

The regular Cardinal Place Thursday food market is given a festive makeover in December, making it the perfect place to pick up a gift from the award-winning Bath Soft Cheese Company.

a Royal Warrant stands as a badge

The entire House of Fraser

of true excellence. In Victoria, such

department store on Victoria

warranted suppliers abound.

Street has a Royal Warrant from

Edward Goodyear, the Cardinal

the Queen for supplying homeware

Place florist, is a haven of fresh

to the Royal household, while across

flowers, creates superlative

the road, Molton Brown has the

bouquets and boasts two Royal

regal seal of approval for its beauty

Warrants. Impressively, its chair,

products. Join the Royals in keeping

Jenifer Emery, is current president

your friends and family beautifully

of the Royal Warrant Holders

scented and indulged.

Association’s governing body, the Council of Grantees of Warrant.

The Goring Hotel, on Beeston

Wine merchant Jeroboams on Elizabeth Street has a Royal Warrant from the Prince of Wales

Place, hit the headlines when it

and the in-store experts can help

hosted the Duchess of Cambridge

you find a vintage to delight even

the night before her wedding.

the most discerning wine buff.

Fittingly, having welcomed Royal

If there’s anything still missing

guests through its doors for 103

from your royal-inspired gift list,

years, the hotel received a Royal

find the finishing touches at Little

Warrant from the Queen for

Waitrose, on Victoria Street. Its

hospitality at the beginning of 2013.

excellent selection of food and

It’s a luxurious place for a weekend

wines has earned Waitrose two

away or a special meal in its elegant

Royal Warrants – one each from the

Dining Room restaurant.

Queen and the Prince of Wales.

SUGAR PLUM FAIRY

PRINCELY PORT

Sugar plum liqueur, £9.99, Marks

1997 Croft, Quinta da Roeda port,

& Spencer, Cardinal Place

£22.95, Jeroboams, Elizabeth Street

Warm the cockles of a loved one’s heart with a bottle of sugar plum liqueur. It’s a zesty tipple that should bring on a sensory experience straight out of The Nutcracker, and it doesn’t come much more festive than that.

Culinary connoisseurs will appreciate a bottle of the finest port with liquorice, chocolate, and roasted coffee notes – the perfect accompaniment to cheese, crackers and the Queen’s speech after Christmas lunch.

W o r ds R o s i e S t e e r

NO NEED TO LOO K FAR W H EN S H OPPING FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY T H IS C H RISTMAS , a s v i c t o r i a' s s t o r e s a n d b o u t i q u e s c at e r f o r e v e r y r e q u i r e m e n t. h e r e ' s o u r p i c k o f t h e m o s t i n s p i r e d

The most stylish gifts in town

The V i c t oria E di t

A ll th at Glitters

Winter Rose

back in ch arge

Deco Encrusted Envelope Clutch

Tomassa Rose Quartz R ing

Surge II Charged Backpack

£39, Accessorize

£90, Goldsmiths

£155, The North Face

’Tis the season to sparkle and this Art Deco-inspired clutch should satisfy even the most voracious accessory-magpie’s appetite for embellishment, adding a touch of Tinseltown to plain ensembles.

Understated jewellery is having a moment, none more so than Tomassa’s finely hand-crafted pieces.

This silver and 18ct gold vermeil ring with stunning rose quartz gem offers a dash of everyday luxury.

Gadget-lovers rejoice: The North Face’s new hi-tech backpack charges electronic devices on the go, with built-in sleeves to keep it all safe and dry, plus FlexVent™ technology for carrying comfort.

seasona l Scentsation

Heads up

top dog

Tom Ford for Men Gif t Set

Kask Mojito World Champs Helmet

Bauhaus Leather Lead

£60, Boots

£119.99, Cycle Surger y

£94.50, Mungo & Maud

Give some aroma therapy with this lotion and scent set that combines earthy notes of black pepper and tobacco leaf with rare Moroccan grapefruit flower, which yields its blossom for only three weeks.

A favourite of professional cyclists and the choice of Team Sky, this Italianmade helmet is one of the safest,and most aerodynamic and snugly fitting on the market – as well as one of the most stylish.

Pamper your pooch with a brand new accessory from the pet outfitters to the stars. This gorgeous leather lead in chic pastels, such as rosewater and chamomile, will be the pride of the park.

square number

fancy pants

Santa Sack

Silk Pocket Square

Polka-Dot Trousers

Romina Bag

£20, Hawes & Curtis

£46, Topshop

£199, Hobbs

Adding a touch of class to any suit or jacket, this elegant navy and purple polka-dot pocket square, in 100 per cent silk, makes the perfect stocking filler for the dapper gentleman in your life.

For those averse to party frocks, these polka-dot trousers are a fabulous alternative, particularly when paired with a plain tee, boyfriend blazer and ankle boots for nonchalant festive chic.

Minimalists will love this understated but well-structured shoulder bag, crafted from fine textured spazzalato leather, with subtle silver hardware.

It’s a modern classic – also available in burgundy and ivory.

après-sk i

star performer

Christm as to a tea

Ida Off-Piste Beanie in Slate

Aurora Frames

Emma Bridgewater Squirrel Mug

£79, Marks & Spencer

£70, Donna Ida

£125, Specsavers

£19.95, House of Fraser

This Sixties-style leoparddetail coat in the most vibrantly festive red can be easily dressed up or down and will see its wearer through the Santa season and beyond.

Cut a stylish dash around town and keep the winter chills at bay with this cable-knit beanie with oversized fluffy bobble, available in a multitude of super-soft shades including pale grey and baby pink.

Glasses wearers will love the versatility of these limited-edition designer frames, not to mention the optional sparkle – interchangeable charms that will transform your look from day to night.

This red squirrel-print English earthenware half-pint mug by iconic British brand Emma Bridgewater – also available in a red fox print – is a novel way to enjoy a restorative cuppa come Boxing Day.

under w r aps

Winter Warmer

Baubles and Beads

festiv e footw ear

Rosie for Autograph Bralet and High

Cloon Keen Atelier

Swarovski by Shourouk Clip Earrings

Jasper Brog ues

£249, Swarovski

£120, Jones the Bootma ker

It’s not just about decorating the tree this season: these clear crystal and emerald crystal earrings – created in collaboration with avant-garde French designer Shourouk – will add sparkle to any Christmas party outfit.

A good pair of brogues will never go out of fashion and this dapper new version, in a striking and up-to-theminute oxblood hue, offers a contemporary seasonal twist on the timeless classic.

Waisted Knickers in Dove

Spiced Bark Candle

£19.50 & £15, Marks & Spencer

£32.50, Les Senteurs

Luxurious lingerie is such a treat – the vintage-inspired style and French lace aesthetic of Rosie HuntingtonWhiteley’s range for M&S will make you feel like a supermodel.

Handmade in Ireland, one of these candles is just the thing to diffuse spicy Christmassy aromas throughout the home, with notes of sandalwood, cardamom and saffron.

Ca ledonia Ca lling

merry m ac

Ch a let Chic

y ule be h appy

Harris Tweed Phone Slip

Trench Coat with Detachable Lining

A lessia Snow f la ke Jumper

Laughter Eau De Toilette (50ml)

£19.50, Marks & Spencer

£79.99, Zara

£49, Monsoon

£45, Space NK

Stash your mobile phone in style with this slip in 100 per cent pure wool Harris Tweed, hand woven by artisans in the Outer Hebrides, in a colour palette that evokes the Scottish landscape.

A timeless trench coat is the gift that keeps on giving. This cool coverup comes with a conveniently detachable lining, too, so it’s perfect for keeping cosy during the draughtier winter months.

This soft snowflake and reindeer print knit is a subtle re-imagining of the ubiquitous Christmas jumper, in gentle shades of grey and cream. Just add mulled wine!

Yearning for some winter sun?

This scent will transport you straight to the Mediterranean, joyfully combining its citrus notes with an aromatic twist of rosemary, coriander and ginger.

t h e s h o pp i n g g u i d e

Mrs Claus Limited Edition Coat

A r c hive

The Vincent Rooms

Lady Lucy French on the st james theatre’s winter programmE

Many top chefs would love to open a restaurant in the enviable location of Vincent Square, but it’s the restaurateurs of the future who get the chance to cook and serve dinner here W o r ds n e i l d a v e y

Restaurants come and restaurants go, often in a matter of months. However, tucked away in a quiet corner of Victoria is an excellent brasserie that has been ticking along for over 60 years. That would be impressive for any restaurant.

However, when you consider The Vincent Rooms (and fine-dining sister The Escoffier Room) is the training restaurant at Westminster Kingsway College’s School of Hospitality and staffed entirely by students, the story becomes even more remarkable.

The Vincent Rooms first opened in 1951 (with The Escoffier following two years later) and the School of Hospitality boasts an additional 41 years of history, having been founded in 1910 by a committee of concerned academics and hospitality representatives, including the great chef Auguste Escoffier.

‘Recently photographs have come to light,’ explains Gary Hunter, the college’s Head of Culinary Arts and Hospitality, ‘and there is documented evidence that he was at committee meetings to create the first cookery school, as The Ritz, The Waldorf Astoria and The Savoy launched around the same time and needed staff.’

Thus, in an impressive building on Vincent Square, provided by local philanthropist Baroness Burdett-Coutts,

the School opened and rapidly built an international reputation.

Gary has been at the college for 19 years. ‘As a chef, you tend to work somewhere for a few years and move on somewhere bigger and better... Or you come into education and either stagnate or become totally involved, making sure you’re giving people the best possible education.’ He is clearly in the latter category, as enthusiastic about his role today as he was when he started.

‘It’s a brilliant place to be,’ reveals Gary. ‘We’re in inarguably the food capital of the world and the teachers are fantastic.

That sparks the imagination and makes sure that everything we do here is first rate in terms of education and training.’

Third-year student Theo Dalton-Maag agrees. He started at the college at 17 after going along to an open evening. ‘I did a year of A-levels and hated it… Then I saw the kitchens and fell in love,’ he reveals with a grin. It’s understandable: facilities such as the new Gastronomic Science laboratory are impressive and the education is thorough.

‘Everybody does front-of-house, chef work, patisserie and bakery,’ explains Gary.

‘The first year is the essentials, the second is closer to work environments and for the third year, we move on to management

Below A Westminster Kingsway College student hones his f ront-of-house skills.

Bottom lef t The Vincent Rooms, one of Victoria’s most popular rest aurant s

Unusual activities In The Next Room

I love this time of year: after a long hot summer, I hanker after jumpers and fires, red wine and warming, hearty grub! The St James is as hectic as ever, with the tremendous Scenes

From a Marriage , directed by the brilliant Trevor Nunn and starring the wonderful Olivia Williams on until 9 November). And we’re now gearing up for the Tony-nominated In the Next

Room , set in 19th-century New York

skills,’ adds Theo, who is currently working in the butchery and is in charge of ordering the meat for the entire college every day. ‘So no pressure,’ he laughs.

‘In their final year, students get the opportunity to specialise,’ elaborates Gary. ‘You have people that want to be chefs, patisserie chefs or restaurant managers and we can help them along all those pathways to meet their ambitions.’

There is then no simple lesson – ‘aside from application and diligence’ but the results, the increased intake on the flagship professional chef diploma course – ‘160 students this year, from 500 applicants’ – and the excellent food in the restaurants speak for themselves. Alumni of the school include Jamie Oliver, Sophie Wright, The Lanesborough’s executive chef Paul Gayler, Selin Kiazim – who opens her first restaurant this month – and Fabulous Baking Brother Henry Herbert. Like many old students, Herbert still works with the college, hosting demos and mentoring students.

‘It’s stories like that, and the success of our students, that keeps the team here doing what they’re doing,’ says Gary.

‘We’re doing something right!’

The Vincent Rooms restaurant,

and directed by Laurence Boswell.

The St James Studio is also abuzz.

Ruth Leon wraps up the first-ever London Festival of Cabaret on 9 November; Play Week is back from 11 to 16 November with three short plays: Picasso is Coming… Ce Soir ;

Macbeth: In Pitch Black (which is exactly that!); and City Stories with original music written and performed by the talented Rosabella Gregory.

The hilarious Helen Lederer returns to explore the meaning of life on 7 and 28 November, and Cleo Rocos tells fabulous stories on Friday 20 December (two tequila cocktails are included in the price of your ticket!).

While all this culture is taking place, our spectacular chef René is creating menus to tempt the taste buds. Delights include the St James saltimbocca, old favourites such as grilled frankfurters in a brioche with our ‘sticky shallots’, or the butcher’s board: rare roast beef, honey-roast ham and smoked duck and venison, with cornichons and piccalilli.

When the chill gets too much on the streets of Victoria, you’ll find warming sanctuary with us: coffee,

Vincent Square, SW1P 2PD;

hot chocolate, a play, lunch, a gig,

020 7802 8391. Westminster

supper or some comedy.

Kingsway College; westking.ac.uk

stjamestheatre.co.uk

Coming Attractions There are soon to be exciting additions to Victoria’s cultural life, with two new restaurants and an independent cinema preparing to open at The Zig Zag Building and 62 Buckingham Gate

W o r ds C h a s E a r ly

Clockwi se f rom r ig ht B enugo’s whole some ready-to -go fare; Cur zon Cinem a’s prog ramming is var ied and intelligent ; Leon’s st ylish approach

#createchristmas Christmas in Victoria is going to be bigger and better than ever

createvictoria.com

the food issue

Good news for Victoria’s gastronomes has been coming thick and fast recently – like a never-ending tasting menu.

Now, Land Securities welcomes Leon and Benugo to its 62 Buckingham Gate development, where their wholesome menus will be available in new groundfloor restaurants.

This comes hot on the heels of the news that popular tapas restaurant Ibérica will be the first dining destination for The Zig Zag Building on Victoria Street; following other recent leases in the district: Jamie Oliver at Kings Gate, The Royal Quarter Café at Wellington House and everyone’s favourite ‘treat yourself’ supermarket, Little Waitrose, in Westminster’s City Hall.

Ibérica, which is due to open in spring 2015, is a Spanish restaurant with a contemporary twist, serving classic tapas reimagined by Michelinstarred chef Nacho Manzano, and sells many of the authentic ingredients he uses in its adjoining delicatessen.

Within six months of the first Leon outlet opening, in Carnaby Street in 2004, it had been named Best New Restaurant in Great Britain at the Observer Food Monthly awards, and was tearing up the fast-food-chain rule book.

Henry Dimbleby, John Vincent and Allegra McEvedy (who has since left but remains a shareholder) created Leon as an antidote to the poor food they were forced to eat ‘on the go’ as management

consultants. ‘The idea with Leon is to have something nice that also makes you feel good,’ says Dimbleby.

Leon sources ingredients responsibly, cares about environmental impact and offers choices that are low-fat and wheat/ gluten-free, or have a low glycaemic load, but do not compromise on flavour.

Founded as a café-deli in Clerkenwell

by Ben Warner, with his brother Hugo, in 1998, the Benugo chain has gone from strength to strength on the high street and in concessions at landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle and Westminster Abbey.

It prides itself on natural ingredients, sustainability and a degree of exclusivity. ‘It has never been an ambition to have a Benugo on every corner,’ says Warner, who was Tatler magazine’s Restaurateur of the Year in 2010, ‘But to have it where it feels special.’

It is not only gastronomes who will benefit from Victoria’s redevelopment, but cinephiles too. Boutique-cinema group Curzon Cinemas will open its sixth London venue in the basement of 62 Buckingham Gate in spring 2014 .

Like the restaurants with which Land Securities has gone into partnership, Curzon has a commitment to quality of product and experience, and understands that there are exciting films beyond the latest blockbusters, to be enjoyed in comfort.

Film entertainment has been absent from the Victoria area for some time, so the arrival of Curzon is most welcome.

Its Soho complex was voted London’s number-one cinema by readers of Time Out, so the Victoria venue will surely become a popular destination for relaxing, as well as taking in an excellent range of independent and foreign films.

Land Securities’ Colette O’Shea is in full agreement with that sentiment. ‘We are thrilled,’ she says. ‘The new restaurants and cinema will be a great addition to the cultural mix of Victoria.’

Clockwi se f rom below U2 photog raphed by V incent Peters; Simon Peg g by Simon Emmet t ; L iam G allag her by W illy C amden – all f rom GQ’s 50 Gre ate st Photog raph s

GQ’s 50 Greatest Photographs To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the British men’s style magazine, Land Securities is supporting an exhibition of GQ’s best celebrity portraits

There are only a few days left to catch a fantastic photography exhibition at Victoria’s Phillips gallery, celebrating 25 years of British GQ magazine. Supported

by Land Securities and raising money for the property developer’s nominated charity, the Prince’s Trust, GQ’s 50 Greatest Photographs is on until 12 November at Phillips auction house on Howick Place.

Ever since its launch in the UK in 1988, the men’s style magazine has attracted many of the world’s most famous and accomplished photographers, particularly in the fields of fashion and portraiture, and featured legends of rock, glamorous screen sirens and sporting heroes in its pages. From the thousands of images that have appeared over a quarter of a century, the editor Dylan Jones, publisher Jamie Bill (who is a resident of Victoria) and the staff at GQ have selected just 50 by the likes of Ellen von Unwerth, Greg Williams, Platon and Mario Sorenti. They include Willy Camden’s take on modern Beatlemania, with Liam Gallagher surrounded by fans on a tour of the Far East; a remarkable

image of Gordon Ramsay’s ‘severed’ head, served on a platter; and the shot of a fiery Andy Murray which featured in the BBC documentary about him.

You can bid on many of the original photographs – including shots by Terence Donovan, Mario Testino and Lord Snowdon – and the proceeds will go to the Prince’s Trust. The charity was founded by the Prince of Wales in 1976 and has since changed the lives of 600,000 disadvantaged young people. As a patron of The Prince’s Trust for three years, Land Securities continues to offer support and fundraising to the Trust.

This exhibition has been a great success so far, after a glittering private view on 31 October. And, after Grayson Perry unveiled his tapestry at 62 Buckingham Gate and David Breuer-Weil’s giant contemporary statue ‘Alien’ was installed in Grosvenor Gardens, it’s a further example of the way Victoria is becoming a major hub of the visual arts.

Public viewing until 7 November; phillips.com To bid, go to paddle8.com/auctions/gq

Work / Life i n t e r vi e ws j a n e f u l c h e r p h o t o g r a p h y t r e n t m c m i n n w o r ki n g i n vi c t o r i a

l ivi n g i n vi c t o r i a

VA L E R I A Z I L K H A

K at ie G askell

C o - o w n e r, T h e R o y a l Q u a r t e r C a f é

L aw yer

Do you think Victoria is becoming more of a destination?

Absolutely. There are more and more places like ours opening in the area – Jamie Oliver, for example – and people are realising it’s a great place to be. It’s very exciting. I didn’t know anything about Victoria before we opened – now I love coming here every day.

Why did you choose to open a café on Buckingham Gate?

When we saw the property, we were unsure about the size of the unit and the location. But we started researching the area and what Land Securities was doing and it was fascinating. Its way of thinking turned out to be the same as ours – we both want to help to grow new communities – so it seemed perfect.

What do you like about the area?

It’s walking distance from everywhere, the architecture is stunning and it’s steeped in history. I like the customers we have here, too. I have been living in Knightsbridge for 16 years and it’s become bland. Here, you feel as if the area is returning to its heritage and becoming more dynamic.

Have you felt a sense of community since you’ve been here in Victoria?

We initially thought that because of our location, most of our customers would be tourists, but we’ve already built up a good following of locals. The summer is over and there are fewer tourists in the area but we’re still busy, so it’s great.

They all say the same thing: ‘We want more places like this to open here.’ So I guess we’re doing something right.

How would you choose to spend a day off in the area?

St James’s Park is just beautiful in the morning, so I’d start there. Then I’d take a wander around Victoria. Some of the new Land Securities developments are stunning – 62 Buckingham Gate is so bold. In the evening I would visit the St James Theatre on Palace Street. We recently hired the studio for a private party and it was really special. royalquartercafe.com

How long have you lived in Victoria?

I’ve lived in the area for over a year but have worked here for almost three years.

Victoria Street has noticeably improved in that time. One end in particular used to be a bit run down but is a lot smarter now. Around Cardinal Place, it’s a lot nicer so, for example, I would go clothes shopping in Victoria these days, whereas I wouldn’t have when I first came here.

Where do you like to eat out?

I’ve only just discovered Grumbles on Churton Street, near where I live. It’s always full of regulars who clearly come back all the time. It’s really fun and serves inexpensive and lovely French bistro-style dishes. The wine list is excellent, too. And there’s a really simple Italian restaurant on Denbigh Street called Uno – an excellent place for a pizza and a bottle of white.

There’s a smart gastropub called The Orange on Pimlico Road, with a warm but elegant dining room. Opposite is Daylesford Organic – one of the best breakfast places around. Pimlico Fresh on Wilton Road is good for coffee and muffins, smoothies and breakfasts but you often have to wait for a table.

A couple of the local food markets are really good – Strutton Ground is on

during the week and Cardinal Place food market, held every Thursday, has stalls serving delicious lunch options, such as toasties, arancini, dumplings, salads – even fresh oysters!

And for drinks in the evening?

The Adam and Eve on Petty France is a traditional pub I go to with friends. It’s known locally as the A&E, causing me some confusion at first! The Phoenix on Palace Street, though busy, is great for drinks and snacks. Or I’ll go to the lovely Caxton Bar at St Ermin’s Hotel, Caxton Street – perfect for a quiet glass of wine.

Have you discovered any hidden gems in Victoria?

There’s a great vintner, Jeroboams, on Elizabeth Street, with a superb selection and helpful staff. The St James Theatre does lunchtime shows, as well as brilliant evening plays and comedy nights. I love the theatre’s bar and restaurant, and its impressive marble staircase. Upper Tachbrook Street is full of gems. I shop at the Saturday market there for fish, vegetables and falafel wraps; at Chocodeli for giftwrapped chocolates and macaroons; and at Rippon Cheese – the best of its kind in London.

the food issue

What is the concept behind the Quarter Group of cafés?

It’s all about fresh, easy, healthy food served in a relaxed setting. The service is important – I love going to places where I’m looked after properly and we like to think it’s the same here. We encourage our staff to let their personality shine through in their service.

A r c hive

Rippon Cheese

EVENTS IN VICTORIA: WINTER

Innovative cheese specialists, this husband-and-wife team has been supplying SW1 and beyond for more than 20 years W o r ds S o p h i e D e n i n g

Celebrity customers aren’t picked out for special treatment at Rippon Cheese in Pimlico. Philip Rippon, who opened the store on Upper Tachbrook Street in 1990 with his wife, Karen, does recognise the MPs and TV personalities who call in regularly but, he says, ‘I just think, ah, yes, I know that face – that’s one of our customers. It’s only after they’ve gone that someone else will say, “Wasn’t that so-and-so?”’ He, Karen and their small team are delighted to welcome all their regular clientele, who come from all walks of life.

Victoria’s broad social mix was one of the things that first attracted the Rippons to the area. Before they leased the property on Upper Tachbrook Street, they were already wholesaling cheese to City banks, solicitors around Temple, clubs in St James’s, and restaurants in Kensington and Chelsea.

‘We needed somewhere as handy for Kensington High Street as for the Square Mile,’ says Philip. ‘Thanks to the bend in the river, Pimlico was perfect.

When we came to look at the shop, we sat outside and all kinds of people went by.’

They stocked 350 cheeses (it’s more like 550 now) when they opened – to something of a wary reception. Most artisan cheese was still sold in delis or supermarkets 25 years ago, with only Paxton & Whitfield and the tiny Neal’s Yard Shop in Covent Garden really specialising. Many shoppers were used to pre-packs, and initially thought that all that cheese couldn’t possibly be in prime condition. ‘People would come in and buy only 6oz of Stilton or Cheddar, thinking it might be old,’ says Philip.

In time, the Rippons won the trust of their clientele, encouraging them to ask not just for Cheddar and Stilton but specifically for Isle of Mull or Keen’s and Colston Bassett or Long Clawson.

‘People are far more knowledgeable and willing to experiment now,’ says Philip.

‘At the luxury end, goats’ and sheep’s milk cheeses have become popular, as have Alpine cheeses, such as Comté and Beaufort, encountered over the years on

The Nova Cat Nova, Victoria This untitled image of a rather glamorous-looking cat has been scaled up by artist Marlo Pascual and temporarily placed on the side of a tower of Portacabins on the site of Land Securities’ Nova, Victoria Development.

novasw1.com

A bove: R ippon Chee se’s select ion s enjoy a sophist ic ated temperaturecont rolled at mosphere Below: The store has a t asting room downst airs that can be hired for private cheese and wine event s

ski trips.’ Cheeses with additions are still well-liked, but it seems Double Gloucester with chives has been usurped by unpasteurised Brie with truffles.

Rippon Cheese is firmly rooted in the SW1 community. Most of the dozen or so residents’ associations in the vicinity put on summer fairs; the Rippons often contribute raffle prizes, and help with fundraisers for local schools and churches wherever possible. They enjoy the ‘still villagey’ feel of the area, and the fact that customers passing the shop on their way to the Tube on a Monday

morning will put their heads round the door just to say how well the weekend selection went down. ‘Another nice thing is that customers will come and ask what’s new – cheese is interesting because it’s always changing,’ says Philip.

Last year, the shop provided 3,000kg of cheese for the Olympics, as well as cheeses for a Diamond Jubilee event at the Lord Mayor of Westminster’s office.

At Christmas, when the queue snakes down the street, they operate a ‘popdown shop’ in their basement, selling tracklements – pickles, sauces and chutneys – and artisan groceries.

With their staff all adept at making recommendations, Philip and Karen don’t have to be present as much as they were 20 years ago. But Karen, who was brought up in Paris, still chats away fluently to their French customers. On Saturdays, whole families come in together. Once new kids on the block, the Rippons have now been here longer than just about anyone, giving a sense of continuity: ‘There are some customers who’ve been coming in since the beginning – and now we employ their children!’

Rippon Cheese, 26 Upper Tachbrook Street, SW1V 1SW; 020 7931 0628

victoria privileges The Victoria BID Privilege Card offers Victoria residents and workers a series of exclusive discounts and offers in stores such as Paperchase, House of Fraser and Hotel Chocolat.

victoriaprivilegecard.co.uk

Christmas Festivities Elizabeth Street 1 December On Sunday 1 December, from 12 to 5pm, Elizabeth Street will be transformed into a Christmassy wonderland, with craft stalls, boutique markets, festive food, drink and music, Father Christmas and even live reindeer.

elizabethstreetlondon.com

A Ceremony of Carols Westminster Cathedral 10 December For Christmas atmosphere, don’t miss the Westminster Cathedral Choristers performing Benjamin Britten’s haunting A Ceremony

of Carols , accompanied by Vicky Lester on the harp. Tickets, £15.

westminstercathedral.org.uk

advertisement feature IN CONVERSATION in VICTORIA

Shawn Achor Last week, 200 guests of property company Land Securities attended the ‘Thoughtful Talk’ – an initiative hosted by Shawn Achor, a world expert on positive psychology, at the St James Theatre in Victoria, London SW1, to launch The Zig Zag Building. Achor explained the impact his research has had on corporate productivity, and the small changes that can make a big difference to us all

Above: Shawn Achor, a passionate advocate of the power of positive thinking in effecting social and personal change