Hello, my name is Paul Smith, Design Museum

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In the fickle world of fashion, it is a great challenge to achieve longevity. Paul Smith is a British fashion icon, like no other.

His collections manage the impossible – classic, smart and cool tailoring, paired with outlandish, daring and colourful design. His famous stripes are infectious and have been used throughout his collections, throughout his life. The ‘Smith stripes’ have been used to transform clothes, accessories and objects big and small including a psychedelic Mini Cooper car.

This fabulously funky exhibition takes the visitor into the world of Britain’s favourite fashion designer. Offering an insight into the lasting success of his unique and innovative fashion brand. We get glimpses into Paul Smith’s personal archive, from the humble beginnings in his first miniature Nottinghamshire shop in 1970, through to the global operation of today. Despite his international success, the Paul Smith label still has the originality and appeal that it had from the very beginning.

The contemporary, slick and sophisticated Design Museum is a suitable home for this celebration of Paul Smith. I left full of admiration and in awe of this brilliant British artist and trendsetter, and desperate for a Paul Smith wardrobe of my own.

Exhibition continues until 9th March 2014, book tickets here.

Mamma Mia, Broadhurst Theatre, New York

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The Broadway scene is booming since, despite the vast expense, it is often a must on any tourist’s itinerary. There are plenty of shows to choose from, some are easier to get tickets for than others. If you’re interested in Book of Mormon, Matilda or Kinky Boots, prepare to beg, borrow or steal a ticket because otherwise you won’t get a seat. Prices reflect popularity and trends.

Mamma Mia is one of the few famous musicals I have never seen, so I enthusiastically took the opportunity to see the show in New York. This feel-good musical is currently on stage at the Broadhurst Theatre, one of the many glittering establishments amongst the bright lights of Times Square.

This classic ABBA musical, with music and lyrics by Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus, is a back-to-back medley of the familiar 80s songs. You can’t help but sing along. The production itself is unspectacular, the set feels tired and the volume from the singers needs a boost. I wanted to be blown away by this big Broadway show, but I just wasn’t.

The orchestra seem to enjoy the upbeat score, conducted by a cheerful Wendy Bobbitt Cavett. Judy McLane succeeds vocally as Donna Sheridan but doesn’t engage well with the audience, her eyes have a glazed look and dramatically she is rather robotic. Laurie Veldheer is better as the daughter, Sophie, and her friends provide some comedy.

Since the film hit the big screen, Mamma Mia the musical has struggled to be as impressive on stage and sadly the current Broadway cast seem resigned to their inferior position.

Thanks to NYC & Co and The Broadway Collection.
More information: http://www.broadwaycollection.com/ (@BwayCollection)

Visitors need to book via a UK tour operator:  www.attraction-tickets-direct.co.uk

Berners Tavern, Edition Hotel

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Berners Tavern has received rave reviews from every critic and blogger who’s managed to nab a table. This lavish eatery is part of Ian Schrager’s new London Edition Hotel which has already welcomed high-profile guests including Kate Moss and Damien Hirst. Within a week of opening, Edition became THE place to stay while Berners Tavern became THE place to eat. With Chef Jason Atherton in-charge of the kitchen, it’s hardly surprising – he can do no wrong and with Berners Tavern he has hit the jackpot once again, his third successful London opening this year.

The opulent dining room has an impressively high ceiling and pictures cover the walls giving the place a boho vintage feel. It is a far cry from the modern minimalist tapas-style eateries monopolising the scene in Soho.

The menu is an all-star compilation of continental favourites: seafood, sandwiches, salads and steaks… after a fruity and flowery cocktail, our starters arrived. Chargrilled chicken paillard with tangy tomato,red onion and rocket was a wonderfully fresh Mediterranean dish, but it was the Crispy Romney Marsh lamb breast with butternut percorino fregola that thrilled – a genius combination of flavours, the earthy vegetables with the juicy meat topped with indulgent cheese, it all worked wonderfully well.

Steaks from the charcoal grill are hearty and filling and perhaps the most popular choice for main… the hunk of meat arrives on a wooden board along with a cup of chunky duck fat chips, salad and sauce. Manly and magnificent. The meat had a lovely depth of flavour enriched further by the various accompaniments. I would have preferred skinnier chips, but that’s being fussy.

Desserts are perhaps the most creative section of the menu… I was tempted by every option. We decided on Caramel apple eclair and Warm almond brioche with pear compote and ginger sorbet. Both were exemplary, indulgent comforting recipes, so tasty you’ll feel obliged to lick the plate clean.

Back through the wondrous lobby, past the check-in and you are confronted by a disorientating piece of modern artwork which marks the entrance to The Punch Room, the secret bar. The elite guests here sip at tumblers of the best punch, recreated with historic references in mind.

The Berners food is less adventurous than Atherton’s other establishments, but will appeal to everyone. Those staying at the hotel will also enjoy the Berners breakfast, I particularly recommend the French toast!

More information and book here: www.bernerstavern.com