VIBE

A Piccadilly institution for over 300 years, Fortnum & Mason parades its pomp in its red-carpets-and-chandeliers décor and the armloads of Royal Warrants it’s accrued over the centuries. Still the go-to grocer of the royal family and ever the darling of the blue-blood set, it’s famous for putting out bespoke hampers ranging GBP 25,000 and upwards for events like royal Christmas parties or the races at Ascot. Mere mortals–especially foodies–can be found perusing the rare and gourmet offerings in its newly revamped food hall.

USE A PURCHASE FROM HERE FOR

A housewarming or wedding gift; a fabulous picnic

WHY WE LIKE IT

The two-level food hall is divine–we were drooling from the word “go” over everything from the delicate creations at its patisserie to the cheeses and smoked meats at its regal marble deli counter. And the tea selections are outstanding too.

GOOD TO KNOW

On Sundays they open for browsing at 11:30am, though you can’t make any purchases until noon. Though the business has blossomed into a full-fledged department store (there are clothing and beauty sections), its well-stocked grocery counters and its luscious hampers remain its staple. While we were there, we enjoyed an appointment at Beauty a La Carte, a small but worthwhile in-store spa.

OTHER LOCATIONS

Moscow; Tokyo; Toronto; Australia

CLOSEST COMPS

Harrods Food Halls (London)

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