London Memories from New York

As I sit here on a wet and humid late morning in New York, I think back over the last couple of weeks with my other love, London. More of this trip another time, but allow me to set the scene for you. One of my favourite maps by Emma Bourne looks down on me and the dulcet beats from Caetano Veloso and Gilberto Gil waft around me.

The world of restaurants and hospitality is all about people. We often analyse the food, design, acoustics, drink but rarely do we think about the hospitality and the people providing it.

For me it defines the experience.

I was feeling that when we started with dinner at Kitty Fisher's, (http://www.kittyfishers.com/) the brainchild of Tom, Tim and Oz, worthy winners for best front of house at a recent awards ceremony. My trio enjoyed a wonderful dinner, simple, fresh and beautifully sourced ingredients in the most intimate setting that feels like you are dining at home. I have to share a vested interest as my brother Tom, recently joined as the manager.

Every time I have been (before and since his tenure) I feel a natural warmth from the team. Their blend of experience and youthful exuberance draws you in and makes you feel looked after, as opposed to being served. I have always opined that you should treat people as you want to be treated in this business, these guys nail it.

We followed this with a meal at a very highly rated restaurant. I wont name it as I was a guest of someone else and also I am not a reviewer.

It had sharp design, food that has been slaved over and thought about; a gargantuan wine list and well drilled brigade of people. All that was lacking was soul and hospitality. Every dish was explained individually as each course arrived. We had our own sommelier, they even provided a table for my bag so it didn't need to touch the (clean) floor. All we really needed was some genuine warmth, a true smile and a waiter who was allowed to be their self.

Talking of being ones' self, I add this note about a former colleague. I have been so lucky and privileged to work with amazing people over the last quarter century, JR is one of those. I trust his honest, self-deprecating humour and biting wit will bring as much joy to the denizens of 45 Jermyn Street as it has me. (https://45jermynst.com/)

I noticed this recently, obviously the Dame has taste (although I accept that not everyone agrees with her stance on the Garden Bridge in London). She mentions my alma mater, the Delaunay and I am thrilled to note the reason why. One of the joys of working with Jeremy King and Chris Corbin also Graydon Carter, was learning how to create what she is talking about here.

It sounds simple but it really isn't, although once your starting point is hospitality and making sure everything is focussed on your guests' experience, you are on the right track. (Note no need for bag tables.....)

I ended the week at another favourite, Verden(http://www.verdene5.com/) although I used to live 15 minutes walk from here, it is now a pilgrimage destination thanks to my new home location.

Anyway an hour was spent enjoying that rare (for me) meal, brunch. Luckily Ed, the co-owner, was able to spend time with me and share the fantastic dishes I (over) ordered.

I have forgotten what a cracking brunch is like, living in the countryside (#keepingitkent) means Saturday and Sunday mornings are spent in the garden on the whole. I will endeavour to make the pilgrimage more often.

As I sign off I leave you with 2 images that made me laugh then and now. The bowler-hatted dude is Don, one half of the senior doorman team at Scott's, he seems to be happily kidnapped by the wonderful Victoria Grant (http://www.victoriagrant.co.uk/)

The other shot is a classic from my time in Chelsea. I spent 2 energised and happy weeks there recently, with a very special team of people.

Have a great Sunday.