The June Round Up
This month's dispatch: heatwaves, bagels, bookstores, and dreams of Tokyo.
Hello! June went by SO fast - it’s hard to believe we’re already in July, halfway through the year, and deep into what feels like our hundredth heatwave day.
Here’s a round-up of my favorite discoveries and delights from the past month:
This Month’s Where to Eat
📌 Papo’s bagels, London
These guys have been around for a bit, but I finally made it to the front of the queue and scored a cream cheese and smoked salmon bagel. Yes, there’s a queue - but if you go early on a weekend morning, you might just stroll in. Pro tip: grab their everything mix - a perfect dupe for Trader Joe’s Everything But the Bagel seasoning. A legit NYC-style bagel, right here in London.
📌 Osteria Angelina, London
Grace Dent's review says it all. Italian–Japanese fusion that sounds too good to miss. Sadly, I won’t be able to try it (for now, next time I’m in London though), but it’s one to watch - a thoughtful, slightly unexpected pairing that seems to really
Ahh my heart goes out that I won’t be able to try this one - but italian / japanese fusion - opening up new restaurants
📌 Nectarine and Almond Cream Galette by A Pinch of Patisserie
Less of a "where to eat" and more of a "what to bake." As San, puts it:
For this recipe, I’ve been playing with nectarines. Why? Because they’re in season and (sadly) very underrated. They’re fragrant, they can handle being cooked without turning into jam, and they go really well with almonds. They’re basically built for this kind of bake.
This Month’s Where to Sleep
📌 Dishoom’s Permit Room Hotel, Portobello, London
You’ve probably seen the headlines: Dishoom has opened a hotel! Nestled in Notting Hill, it’s their first foray into accommodation. While I’ve had thoughts about Dishoom in the past (see: previous controversial post), I’ll admit - their aesthetic is spot-on. The hotel spans three floors and channels old Bombay charm, complete with artisanal collaborations and timeless interiors. I’m curious to see real reviews once people start checking in - but so far, the vibe is “don’t want to leave the room” in the best way.
📌 Muji Hotel, Tokyo
Leave it to Tokyo to make the coolest hotels. I discovered this via Maddie Borge’s Reels - she has such an easygoing travel style that makes everything feel accessible. As a longtime Muji fan, this place speaks to my soul: minimalist, serene, and quietly luxurious. Rooms are compact but thoughtfully designed. Plus, the in-house restaurant Wa serves simple Japanese fare in a beautifully unfussy setting.
This Month’s Where to Culture
📌 V&A East Storehouse, London
I was skeptical at first - felt like everyone was talking about it. But I get the hype now. It’s not a museum in the traditional sense, but a behind-the-scenes working storehouse with curated mini displays. You get to see museum objects up close - the kind normally tucked away in archives. Bonus: it’s completely free. Grab a pastry and coffee from e5 Bakehouse on the ground floor and take a stroll by the canal after.
📌 Luce ‘libreria emotiva,’ Naples
Italy’s first emotional bookstore. Could it be any cuter? This place centers emotions as the way into literature. I’m not heading to Naples anytime soon, but it’s been added to my Google Maps Italy list for when I do.
This Month’s What to Read / Watch
📌 “Italian Summer Isn’t Just Striped Umbrellas & Beach Lidos” by Gabriela Rose
If you’re dreaming of an Italian summer like I am (even though I’m heading to Greece this year), this essay hits the mood. Gabriela’s voice is lovely and the visuals are peak summer.
📌 “NYC Recommendations for extremely specific situations” by Hanna Park
One of the best NYC guides I’ve read in ages. Niche, clever, and dead-on - from big sights to random details (yes, Franklin Station does feel like a Carolyn Bessette Kennedy moment).
📌 Monthly Reviews by Jenny Minney
These feel like reading someone’s diary in the best way - smart, witty, perfectly unfiltered. More of this energy everywhere, please.
That’s it for this month’s round-up!
As always, I’d love to hear what you’ve been into - and if you’ve tried or visited any of the above.
See you next month 🌞
xx Anna