I spend many hours in the bookshops along this stretch, namely Henry Pordes for second hand books and new discounted titles (pile on left of photo), as well as Koenig Books for new art books with lots of great discounts in the basement. (photo right). In 2001 the rents for much of this strip were increased to align them closer to market value but thanks to public support they were reduced again. Unfortunately some bookshops still closed down; Koenig replaced the beloved Zwemmers - a real institution - but thankfully still provide great books, although others are no longer bookshops at all.

On Burlington Gardens in Mayfair, Cecconi’s is a modern-day classic Italian restaurant open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week. Cecconi’s serves handmade pasta, seafood and dishes from Italy using the finest ingredients. The restaurant has outposts in West Hollywood, Miami, Istanbul, Berlin, Barcelona, New York, and Mumbai.

One of London's best kept secrets, Spiritual Bar is a small and super welcoming live music bar on a side road near Chalk Farm station. Always somehow busy but not too packed, they play host to most of London's best emerging blues, rock and folk musicians, and owner Raf is the nicest dude you could meet. And makes a serious mojito

A brilliant little hidden gem of a place to relax and look at some interesting rare / Out of print books and Magazine. Their evening art events are also very special. Great atmosphere and great people.

A short walk from Oxford Circus tube station, Kaffeine is easily one of the best coffee houses in London. Whenever I'm working in the area I pop in beforehand to kick start my day with a well-made cappuccino.