If anyone knows how to fill 24 hours in London, it's Simon Prideaux, founder and MD of all-night restaurants, VQ. All aboard the Night Tube...

How do you start your day?

I’m up at around 7am and, unless I have a breakfast meeting, I’ll grab a bowl of cereal with my daughter. My office is above the Chelsea restaurant so will usually head there for around 8.30am or I often arrange a meeting at one of the other restaurants or just pop in to catch up with the team. A black Americano to spark me into action is a must wherever I go first. At weekends I’ll grab a takeaway coffee from Detour, a lovely independent coffee shop on the Askew Road.

Leisurely lunch go-to?

I very rarely have time for a leisurely lunch, so tend to have a quick salad at one of the restaurants – we do a great Cobb salad so this is probably my top choice. I have a couple of lunch meetings every week, which are a good opportunity to introduce people to VQ. If time and money were of no issue I’d have a relaxing lunch at the River Café.

Favourite way to pass the time in London?

Walking – ever since I stopped riding a moped after a serious accident, I try to walk as much as possible. It’s not only great exercise (not a fan of the gym!), but it's also the best way of exploring London – you discover so many fascinating places by wandering off the beaten track.

Favourite London landmark and why?

The River Thames – it’s the main artery of London and has such a story to tell. I’d love to live somewhere with a river view – I think it has such a calming effect in an otherwise hectic city.

Tipple of choice and favourite cocktail hangout?

I’m not a big drinker or in fact a great fan of cocktails. However, I do enjoy a Sipsmith vodka & tonic with lots of fresh lime and my destination of choice would be the classy and alluring Mr Fogg’s in Mayfair.

Favourite dining destinations and why?

I like to support independent restaurants near to where I live. On the Askew Road there is a wonderful Nepalese restaurant called Monkey Temple, which epitomises how service should be alongside delicious authentic dishes. The Oak W12 has great pizzas, an engaging atmosphere and is very family friendly. Recently opened is Killer Tomato on the Goldhawk Road, which is high quality, inspired and fun Mexican dining. Away from West London, Hardy’s in Marylebone is a relaxed, convivial, family run brasserie with the best of British classics and an eclectic wine list – a true gem!

Final stop for a nightcap and why?

A nightcap is a rare occurrence nowadays, but years ago we’d head to a friend’s restaurant and prop up the bar until the early hours with whatever we were given.

Best hangover remedy?

It has to be a Full English Breakfast at VQ with a freshly squeezed orange juice or one of our delicious smoothies and a protein shot!

Where next on your travels?

My brother-in-law has recently moved to Rome so we’re hoping to go and visit him - we can discover and enjoy some wonderful trattorias and gelaterias!

Simon Prideaux was one of the original founders of Vingt-Quatre, the first 24 hour restaurant of its kind in London and the fore-runner of the VQ brand. Now, he is Managing Director of the three VQ branches in London, including the newly opened location in Notting Hill, based appopriately at 24 Pembridge Road, though the first without 24-hour dining and drinking. 

VQRestaurants.com

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Night Tube