We caught up with Stephanie Brookes, a leading food writer, presenter and reviewer. She is considered the go-to contact for recommendations of the best places to eat in London and beyond.
Stephanie’s fresh, pragmatic approach sees her celebrating food, whether it’s discovering the hottest street food, dining at Michelin-starred restaurants, or seeking out up and coming eateries or the newest food markets around.
My car of choice
It would have to be the Lexus RX Hybrid, which is a stunning car but also has the fuel efficient eco credentials which I think is so important. I also like the spaciousness inside and the higher vantage point. I’ve always been a fan of Lexus, and this particular model ticks all the boxes for me.
My favourite holiday destination
Greece is simply heaven for me. I truly turn off and relax when I’m there. The food is absolutely divine and I spend my days in the local tavernas enjoying the amazing seafood and salads. One of my favourite places to stay is Fiskardo which is so calm and picturesque, and one of the most special places on the island of Kefalonia. I highly recommend it.
My gadget I can’t live without
It would have to be my iPhone, which is permanently attached to my right hand, I’m sorry to say. I occasionally have to give myself a ‘technology detox’ and put the phone away, but I can’t really live without it. The latest gadget I would like is the Dyson Airwrap, as I’ve read amazing reviews and I love anything that makes styling my hair that much easier.
My go to fashion brand
I would have to say Zara always delivers in terms of design and accessibility. At the moment, my orders are solely for loungewear which I imagine most of us are doing at the present time. For those special occasions and nights out, I just adore Rixo for their unique, colourful and beautiful designs. I just want everything on their website.
My airline of choice
Emirates is always a really positive and enjoyable experience for me. The flight attendants are fantastic and so friendly. I also like the variety in the food, which is always at the top of my list. If the food is consistently good, I’m always a very happy traveller.
My favourite watch brand
I’ve never been a watch wearer myself, however, I’ve always admired the simple elegance of Cartier watches, specifically the Panthère de Cartier mini steel watch, which would be my preferred choice. I like jewellery to have a ‘less is more’ feel and that could work with a variety of outfits.
My favourite restaurant
The most difficult question of all as restaurants are my life! I would say the one I visit most frequently is my beloved Marcella in Deptford. It’s a local Italian restaurant which has a small but perfectly formed menu of the freshest pastas, and is a real gem in south east London. It’s a relative newcomer to London’s restaurant scene yet already has that classic, timeless appeal.
My guilty pleasure
It would have to be the Real Housewives, which I watch more than I should! I can go through an entire series in one greedy sitting. My favourites are the Beverly Hills and New York housewives which keep me entertained more than most shows. I’m always waiting for the next instalment as I can’t get enough. It’s also hilarious.
My favourite way to give back
I donate to my local food banks which is incredibly important to me. It’s a travesty that there even has to be food banks as no one should be going hungry in this day and age. It’s vital that the local food banks are continually stocked and supported, especially during these very difficult and uncertain times.
