Barneys Feature: London Native and PRISM Designer Anna Laub Shares Her Local Favorites

When she’s not chasing the sun, PRISM founder and creative director, Anna Laub—who won Emerging Accessory Designer at last year’s British Fashion Awards for her line of eyeglasses and resortwear—enjoys the spectacle (pun intended) that is her hometown. After all, her Chiltern Street shop is in the center of the action. Below, Laub shares how to see the city through her ever-stylish lens just in time for London Fashion Week with her “best-of” picks (tip: new sunnies first, avocado toast at Firehouse second).

Let’s just say, along with designing chic sunglasses, swimsuits and bags, curating city guides is definitely her cup of tea.

Healthy breakfast spot:

The Chiltern Firehouse
1 Chiltern Street, Marylebone, London W1U 7PA United Kingdom

“This place is by far my favorite spot for a quick breakfast run. Fresh green juice, iced lattes, and chef Nuno Mendes’ famous avocado toast are my favorites. Plus, the decor is a dream.”

Take-away lunch:
Ottolenghi
63 Ledbury Road, Notting Hill, London W11 2AD, United Kingdom

“Ottolenghi in Notting Hill is always a great option. It has very fresh, eclectic items—I swear by the artichoke and lemon mayonnaise salad—and little pastries for my fellow sweet toothers. If you’re feeling adventurous and have some time on your hands, (obviously not during Fashion Month) they have great recipes online. Flatbreads, farro salads, traditional muhammara—all are unbelievably tasty!”

Secret dinner spots:    
Amaya 
Halkin Arcade, Motcomb St, London SW1X 8JT, United Kingdom
Lucky 7
127 Westbourne Park Rd, London W2 5QL, United Kingdom

“I love Indian food, and Amaya is one of the best spots in London. It’s Indian fusion—beyond delicious. But when I’m craving comfort food, which I anticipate will most certainly happen in the midst of Fashion Week madness, a burger and fries from Lucky 7 is my happy place.”

Haven for that necessary between-show recharge:

The Regent’s Park and Primrose Hill
Chester Rd, London NW1 4NR, United Kingdom

“London has some of the most beautiful parks in the world—truly one of the things that make this city amazing. If it’s sunny, I’ll go to Primrose Hill in Regent’s Park. It has an incredible view of London. There’s also Queen Mary’s Rose Garden. There are over 12,000 roses! If you want to go a bit out of the centre, Queens Park near my home has tennis courts, ping-pong tables, and a mini-golf course!”

Best shopping district:
Chiltern Street
Prism, 54 Chiltern St, London W1U 7QX, United Kingdom

“I love Marylebone Road and Chiltern Street. They’re quite charming, but also feel very fresh and new! And of course, this is where our store is located. It has such a villagey feel, while still being right in the centre of London.”

Vintage treasure hunting:
Alfie’s Antique Market 
13-25 Church St, London NW8 8DT, United Kingdom

“I love a little trip to Alfies. It has everything from amazing vintage fashion to crazy light fixtures and furniture to beautiful porcelain you’d find in your grammy’s china cabinet. Definitely a must-do.”

Artful destination:
The Tate Modern
Bankside, London SE1 9TG, United Kingdom

I’ve always loved The Tate Modern. The exhibitions never fail to amaze, and the structure itself is just kind of magnificent. The book shop is also amazing, and the espresso bar has the best view over the South Bank. Plus, the famous “Wobbly Bridge,” as Londoners like to call it, is right outside—absolutely a must-walk (is that a thing?).

Spot to wear sunglasses indoors:
The Barbican
Silk St, London EC2Y 8DS, United Kingdom

“The Barbican building itself is one of the largest performing arts centres in all of Europe. It hosts concerts, theatre performances, films and art exhibitions. But in the center of it all is somewhat of a secret tropical garden. Tropical flowers and trees, ivy growing out of concrete walls…you feel as if you may be in Costa Rica!”

Pro-tip for getting around London town:
The London Overground is great - its fast and almost never full (as opposed to the tube!). It's the best way to get from West to east london and you get to see London as you go!