Chelsea Lately

You can take the girl out of Chelsea, but you cant take Chelsea out of
the girl.

Its been a while since our Toronto editor, Athena Tsavliris, ventured
home. Here, she shares some favourite haunts from her old London
neighbourhood.

The Shop at
Bluebird
This fashion/lifestyle store keeps getting better and
better. Youll find big labels like Moschino and Marni, as well as
lesser-known gems like Peter Jensen and Osman. John Derian plates,
Isabel Marant shoes, Cire Trudon candles and Vanessa Bruno bags all hang
out in this super cool space. 350 Kings Rd., London, www.theshopatbluebird.com

French Sole
This
is the only ballet flat we wear. (Theyre quite spendy, but worth every
penny.) The newest store is packed with every colour, finish and print
imaginable. Look for the Harriet in cherry red leather or metallic
sparkles. 323 King’s Rd., London, 0207-351-1634, www.frenchsole.com

The
Chelsea Physic Garden
One of Chelseas best kept secrets, this
beautiful garden is lovely for lazy lunches and sweet scented strolls.
Lunch is served in what feels like a school hall and is quintessentially
English. Think bangers followed by treacle tart and cream. 66 Royal
Hospital Rd., London, 0207-352-5646, www.chelseaphysicgarden.co.uk

Ad Hoc
We
raided this place as teenagers, and its still a go-to if we’re ever in
need of a tutu, lace stockings, a neon wig or some fun faux baubles. 153
King’s Rd., London, 0207-376-8829, www.adhoclondon.co.uk

Picasso
This Chelsea mainstay is our secret hangover spot. Bob Geldof
and Eric Clapton were regulars, and even though the waitresses are moody
and the food mediocre, theres something about Picasso that has lasting
appeal. 127 King’s Rd., London, 0207-352-4921.

The Pigs Ear
This
pub has a great atmosphere and the food is pretty good too. In warmer
months, punters spill out on to the street, its so popular. Try the
steak tartare or one of the lovely seasonal risottos. 35 Old Church St.,
London, 0207-352 2908, http://www.thepigsear.info

Manolo Blahnik
The
store is like a little shoe museum, with some of the most daring styles
Blahnik designs. Many amazing pairs have been scored at its annual mega
sale. Manolo Blahnik, 49-51 Old Church St., London, 0207-352-3863, www.manoloblahnik.com