Italian soprano Carmen Giannattasio spends a lot of time in London when she’s performing at Royal Opera House. Here she shares her favourite places when she’s in the capital.
What’s your favourite place to have a coffee and have a good start of the day?
I live in Kensington, so I usually have breakfast there. If the weather is good I love having a walk in Kensington Gardens and then having breakfast at The Orangerie. If I don’t have so much free time and it’s cold I head to Ivy Club in Highstreet Kensington. They make great benedict eggs there!
Which is your favourite place for stroll?
Holland Park. I love being in close contact with nature. Contained within the park is the beautiful Kyoto Garden, a Japanese garden that is a gem.
Which is your favourite building in London?
My favourite modern building is The Shard by Renzo Piano. As far as ancient buildings, I love Somerset House.
What is your favourite shop?
Fortnum&Mason. I could get lost browsing jam jars. Also, a tip for the ones who want a new haircut while in London: Bobo London salon near Angel tube station.
The perfect place is Borough Market. I love browsing in the stands, tasting a bit of everything and experiencing new tastes.
Which is the place in London that more than others makes you feel Italian?
Our embassy. Crossing its entrance means materially being in Italy. The building that hosts the embassy is one of the most beautiful in London. Whereas the interiors have all the elegance and style that identify Italians in the world.
Your secret place in London is…
The Roof Gardens and Babylon. In the heart of London (Kensington) there is a hanging garden with a a brook and pink flamingos! The gardens at The Roof Gardens are spectacular and best of all, they’re open to the public to visit free of charge.
