Every once in a while I happen to strike some luck in competitions, and this time round I won one of the loveliest experiences in a competition run by The Merit Club.
We started off with a shopping experience at the Lucy Choi flagship store on Connaught Street where we were treated to champagne and chocolates whilst we browsed the beautiful array of shoes on display. I’ve always been one to stick to neutral/pastel shades, but that day I thought I’d be a bit more adventurous and tried on some styles that I thought would add a bit more excitement to my shoe collection. Thankfully I had my fashionable friend, Supal, who helped me break away from my comfort zone, and Nora who attended to us during our visit was also extremely friendly and helpful in giving recommendations.
There were about five different styles that appealed to my tastes and fit almost perfectly, but my heart was set on the first pair that I tried on which was the Haymarket Red/Black Velvet stilettos. I can’t remember the last time I felt that excited trying on shoes in a store (I tend to stick to online shopping these days …) and this store is definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for some shoes that combine style and comfort. I’m looking forward to rocking my new pair of shoes in the New Year!
We then made our way to The Franklin London in Knightsbridge to enjoy a relaxing lunch at their modern Italian restaurant, headed by Michelin-starred Chef Alfredo Russo. Located in an elegant Victorian building, the intimate space was warm and welcoming, surrounded by the stunning Egerton Gardens which we could view through the windows from the restaurant.
I enjoyed my starter of pan-fried langoustines with fried buffalo mozzarella and sundried tomatoes whilst Supal had an equally tasty dish of Fassona beef tartare topped with black truffles. For my main, I had my eye on the pigeon that was a lovely golden-brown whilst still nice and pink in the middle. The meat was tender and flavoursome, accompanied by fried polenta, a smooth corn cream and a delicious jus. Supal had the rabbit ravioli that tasted as good as it looked – the perfect comfort food dish for any pasta lover.
Our choice of desserts was the hazelnut tart topped with vanilla sauce and ice cream, and a light Turin traditional puff pastry filled with ice cream. Both were simple and satisfying desserts, followed by some petit fours to accompany our coffees.
It was certainly the perfect day out and a nice way to spend the last few days of 2018. Thank you once again to The Merit Club, Lucy Choi London, and The Franklin London for an unforgettable experience, and here’s to many more to come in the New Year!
The Cheekster, signing out x
