Where to Eat in London

By Dan Ahwa
Viva
Borough Market. Picture / Supplied.

Korean-born New Zealander Jae Kim was a rising star of the New Zealand fashion industry, with this debut collection making an impact at New Zealand Fashion Week in 2007 with its focus on deconstruction, elevated streetwear and soft draping. In 2010 he moved to London, working for designer Mary Katrantzou before taking the fashion MA course at Central St Martins under the tutelage of revered tutor Louise Wilson, who passed away in 2014. Some of Louise’s past students include the late Alexander McQueen, Phoebe Philo and Christopher Kane.

Last year the Jaeha label re-launched, with a grown-up aesthetic that draws inspiration from its new London base. His latest Fall 2016 collection, with cashmere suiting, structured denim separates and crisp shirting, launched at London Fashion Week and has drawn attention of British Vogue and the Telegraph. The designer shares his favourite spots to eat and drink in London:

1. Casse-Croute
A wonderful French restaurant in Bermondsey. It's lovely and cosy, one of my favourite restaurants! Bermondsey St and nearby Maltby St are great places to explore - with art galleries (visit White Cube on Bermondsey St), other restaurants and cafes (Monmouth at Maltby St) and shops (Lassco on Maltby St for 20th Century antiques).

2. Bibigo
This Korean restaurant is only five minutes away from London Fashion Week's Brewer St carpark venue. I celebrated my 30th birthday here the day before setting up at LFW.

3. Herman ze German
The best German Wurst sausages!

4. Japan Centre
This store on Shaftesbury Avenue, Piccadilly Circus, offers delicious Japanese edibles.

Jae Kim and his Fall 2016 model Hazel Townsend. Picture / @jaeha_london
Jae Kim and his Fall 2016 model Hazel Townsend. Picture / @jaeha_london

5. Leong's Legend
Known for their amazing xiao long bao (soup dumplings). 4 Macclesfield St, Leicester Sq.

6. Bourough Market
Great food outlets among the fruit and vegetable and meat sellers. My current favourite is a hog roast stall serving pork sandwiches and fantastic crackling.

7. Connaught Hotel
I love a good cocktail, and these guys in Mayfair do a great cocktail menu.

8. Cecconi's
My favourite Italian restauurant, in Mayfair.

9. C'Est Ici
A French café next to the Barons Court tube station. Very chic with delicious pastries.

Looks from Jaeha Fall 2016. Picture / Nick Tydeman
Looks from Jaeha Fall 2016. Picture / Nick Tydeman

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