Home is…
Rome, in a 15th-century building overlooking Castel Sant’Angelo. I come to London at least once a month, I just love it and need to get my fix. It gets my soul and brain going.
Where do you stay in London?
Either with friends or at Claridge’s. It’s one of the grande dames and one of my favourites. Well, you’re the expert — what is the non-negotiable for a good hotel? Soul. And personality. The rest I couldn’t really give a shit about.
What is your earliest memory of London?
I was born here. I’m half British, and very proud of it! We lived here when I was a kid for a little bit. I remember my parents taking me to Drones on Pont Street. They had potato skins, which I thought was so exotic.
What have been the most memorable meals you’ve had here?
I just went to a Pakistani restaurant in Knightsbridge called Salloos and had the best chicken I’ve ever had in my life.
Which shops do you rely on?
Alex Eagle, she just has an amazing eye; 88 Antiques on Golborne Road; The Map House on Beauchamp Place; Métier for beautiful bags. And I love Portobello Market. I’m obsessed with old Wedgwood and on my last visit I bought an old ashtray with Prince Charles and Princess Diana on it.
Best thing a cabbie has ever said to you?
‘Did you bruise when you fell from heaven?’ What would you do as Mayor for the day? I’d plant trees in every street, and make culture free for everyone.
Where do you go to let your hair down?
I love music and don’t think you can beat a great gig. The Royal Festival Hall, the Roundhouse, the Royal Albert Hall and the Barbican are a few of my favourite venues. Or roller-skating at Flipper’s in Shepherd’s Bush. I recently went with my friends Kim, Melissa, and Ashley.
If you could buy any London building and live there, which would it be?
Sir John Soane’s Museum.
My parents once took me to Drones on Pont Street. They had potato skins, which I thought was so exotic
What if you could open a Pellicano here?
Oooh, there is a beautiful tiled building on Langham Street. I would love to do something in London and have an excuse to come even more often.
What is your favourite London work of art?
All the Italian art between the Gothic and the Renaissance period at the National Gallery. Every time I visit, I literally cry. There is one piece, Paolo Uccello’s Saint George and the Dragon, which is just amazing. And the Raphael portraits of The Madonna and child are to die for.
What are you up to right now for work?
Lots of stuff. I have a few Italian collaborations coming out with our brand Issimo. Pellicano has just reopened for the summer, next is Mezzatorre and La Posta Vechia in mid-May, which just got a massive make-over. It looks glorious. I’m really excited for the season starting.
Who’s the most iconic Londoner in history?
David Bowie. I’m a big, big, big Bowie fan.
What makes someone a Londoner?
There’s a very natural coolness to the Londoner, which I adore. And a great sense of humour.
What’s your London secret?
My dear friend Manizeh’s out of the ordinary yoga school, Love Supreme Projects on Golborne Road. It’s just amazing.
What’s one Italian word every Londoner should know?
