A day with ALTA VITA in London

I prefer to stay in Mayfair or Soho — central, well connected, and ideal for reaching both west and east London. They’re also close to several beautiful parks, where my day usually begins with a run or a Pilates class, depending on the weather. After a leisurely breakfast at Hide, I like to discover something new: a visit to Battersea Power Station, the latest exhibition at the V&A, or a wander along the Regent’s Canal from Granary Square through Coal Drops Yard. Spitalfields Market and its surrounding streets are another favourite for a morning stroll.

Lunch tends toward the west end — Westbourne Grove is a go-to for spots such as Sunday in Brooklyn, The Ladbroke Arms or Granger — or Chelsea around Sloane Square and King’s Road, with plenty of options on Pavilion Road. Shopping is endless here: you can browse the boutiques lining the streets or opt for one of London’s renowned department stores — Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Selfridges or Liberty.

Afternoon tea is a ritual for me; scones are a weakness. I often pause for tea at Fortnum & Mason, Le Sketch, or one of the city’s elegant hotels. By late afternoon I’m usually wandering Regent Street, Old Bond Street and Piccadilly, where the Assouline store holds its own alongside those in Paris.

No London night is complete without a theatre show or ballet in Covent Garden, followed by dinner — I favour adventurous international cuisine, particularly Indian, Japanese or South American. One of my favourites is Amazónico for its lively atmosphere and refined flavours.