I don’t have the authority to say what is and is not “quintessential London” just yet, but Marylebone really does it for me. Thoughtful shops lining street after street of crisp, visually appetizing architecture; tidy, colorful storefronts adding pep and flair to each street; London’s most fashionable popping out of quaint coffee shops with flat whites and floral shops with a wreath for the holidays. Though my heart will always be in Paris (until I say otherwise), Marylebone has satisfied my appetite for people watching against a unique and textural architectural canvas.

Where to stop

Coffee / morning snack: The Monocle Cafe to people watch London’s most stylish; @shreejnews for a quick espresso in a vintage newsstand; or @thehagenproject for a stylish cup in a colorful space
Brunch or afternoon lunch: @grangerandco for an Australian-inspired menu; @ottolenghi_london for the classiest deli; or @lafromagerieuk, where the “cheese toastie” comes highly recommended
Drinks: @chilternfirehouse, if you can snag a seat, or @thecocktailbar for something just as classy with fireside vibes
Homewares and gifts: @perfumerhlondon for beautifully packaged fragrances; @labourandwait for practical, stylish homewares; @niwaki.hq for beautiful knives and gardening tools; and @dauntbooks, a local institution for the bookish