Bulletin

Tucked away off Hackney’s Upper Clapton Road you will find Petalon, an independent florist that delivers beautiful, freshly arranged flowers to your door by bicycle. Having popped by their workshop a few weeks back, I can safely say that it is one of the most quaint and sweet smelling shops that you could come across. However, the beauty of the flowers and bikes could not detract my attention away from something that was nestling outside – Huxley.

When I tell you that this was quite possible one of the biggest dogs I have ever seen, I am not lying. Despite his size, Huxley the Great Dane is a gentle giant and my, oh my did he enjoy some belly rubs and ear scratches and I would gladly curl up by the fire with him on a chilly winter’s evening.
For more information about Petalon (and Huxley) don’t forget to have a look at their Instagram page: http://bit.ly/2znHsnz

A good while ago in the office we started the first part of this debate, which was of course North vs South, so we wanted to continue this discussion with East vs West.

EAST
Homeland to EastEnders and some of the finest pie and mash you can find, it is the land of hipsters, creative people and quirky independent shops.

There is a reason why lots of people covet an East London postcode, there is something about the area that makes you feel like part of a community. With the tempting selection or curry houses on Brick Lane, the Olympic Park in Stratford and the cookie dough pop-up in Old Street station, there is everything you could possibly want on your doorstep, as well as arguably the best coffee London has to offer.

Another reason why East London is such a great place to live and work is because it is constantly flourishing from independent businesses, meaning there is always something fresh and exciting opening around every corner, you only have walk past BOXPARK in Shoreditch to understand the originality and style that East London is renowned for.
If you want unparalleled views over the city then this side of the city is where to be, from sunrise breakfasts in Duck and Waffle to sunset drinks on the rooftop at Boundary, you really are spoilt for choice.

WEST
Those who are from this side of town can reel off countless reasons why West is best, don’t be fooled by the pretentious façade of West London conveyed in Made in Chelsea.
Home of ‘Theatreland’, the best shopping and the majority of the Royal Parks, West London is the hub of entertainment and culture. In my opinion, some of the best restaurants are in the West, Trishna in Marlyebone and Coya in Mayfair are just a few favourites.

Let’s talk about architecture, although there are some beautiful town houses in the likes of Whitechapel, taking some time out to appreciate the classic Georgian and Edwardian houses around Fulham and Chelsea is always a good idea, serious home goals.

Considering how vast London is, I thought it would be nice to start doing some mini area guides which cover some of the best cultural and foodie hotspots around. To start us off, I thought I would cover my neck of the woods, Clapham.
Let’s start with everyone’s favourite topic, which is of course brunch. Bump & Grind and Brickwood are superb options if you like these things: eggs and coffee, which in my opinion, are the only two things you need when it comes to brunch. I would also like to give an honourable mention to Black Lab Coffee, because not only is that a fantastic name for a café, the cappuccinos and raspberry ginger oat slices are out of this world good.

Next on the list covers what we all like to do after a hearty brunch, drinks and dinner. Mommi is a place that I will recommend to anyone and everyone until I die because it is so tasty, no one should miss out on it. The food is a fusion of Asian and Peruvian and the cocktails are ever so complementary alongside each plate of deliciousness. The Dairy is another great place, whether it is for a date night or casual dinner with friends, the cool bistro vibes tick all the boxes.

Enough about food, now let’s talk fitness! Clapham is jam-packed with ways to get that heart pumping, you could either take things outside with a boot camp session on Clapham Common or join one of many classes on offer in the area. A few of my personal favourite classes include Ride at Oncore or Burn at Hub Fitness, prepare to ache.

Lastly, there are a few shops that I like to peruse every now and then on a casual Saturday afternoon, one of which is Birksen in Clapham Old Town. Filled with a gorgeous assortment of flowers, vases, bowls and general homeware, this is the ultimate shop for gift buying. Charlotte Cave is one for the beauty lovers out there if you need some luxury in your life.

What are your favourite haunts in Clapham?