My Perfect Day - Darius Namdar

Urbanologist and Director of Mark's Club, Darius Namdar shares with U his perfect day...

How do you start your day?

When I wake up I make a point not to look at any devices for at least 30 minutes. I make breakfast and a coffee or tea. 80 Stone is a small roaster in Fulham that I (and the Club) source coffee from. Simone Guerini Rocco owns the brand and a coffee shop called ‘Chairs and Coffee’ and we got chatting over the original Faema E61 and his 1950s coffee roaster (which weighs…80 stone). I tend to prefer a Kenyan or Ethiopian, tea like and citrusy coffee. Otherwise I have a Lalani and Co single origin tea, usually the Himalayan Imperial Black or the Kyoto Oolong. Lalani have a beautiful range of rare and exceptionally high quality tea. They too supply the Club and if you can’t tell- Tea and Coffee is something I am passionate about. This morning ritual is essential for me.  

Leisurely lunch go to?

Wilton’s is one of my favourite lunch time spots in London. Time goes by very quickly in the dining room and their oysters are perfect. Also a stone’s throw from me is Gavin Rankin’s Bellamy’s which is always reliable with great service and delicious food. A quick sandwich at the bar is often my first choice. 

Favourite way to pass the time in London?

Dining out with friends. London has one of the strongest and most interesting dining scenes in the world and with limited time to do so during the week, a spoiling Sunday lunch at the River Café with friends and family is my favourite way to spend this time. 

Favourite London landmarks, and why?

Whitehall leaves such an impression on me for its architecture, powerful memorials and a real sense of ceremony with the household cavalry at their post to Horse Guards.

Albert Bridge has to be one of my top 3 as it has always served as a reminder of home when I see it.

As a cigar enthusiast I am often referring to or enjoying a Bolivar as a post dinner smoke. The statue of Simon Bolivar in Belgrave Square acts as a reminder of the status of this historical figure.  

Tipple of choice and favourite cocktail hangout?

I do not drink alcohol and prefer to drink tea. Some of our teas can be used over ice to make a beautifully refreshing drink, which when enjoyed in a heavy cut tumbler feels a lot like that end of week treat, well deserved. The Bar at Mark’s Club is so peaceful next to the fire in the winter, or on the terrace in the summer that I often find myself inviting people here.  

Favourite dining destinations, and why?

Rome is one of my favourite cities in Europe, and if I get the chance to go it is my favourite to walk around. Darting around on a bike, stopping off at the market at Campo de’ Fiore, for an the espresso at Sant Eustacchio and always time for some meditation of sorts at the Pantheon. Barcelona has to be a late and recent discovery for me. Cal Pep had to be one of the most memorable lunches of last year. I stayed in this great little hotel above a bakery, so I woke up every morning to fresh bread and pastries.   

Where next on your travels?

Havana! I will be making my second trip to Havana in 2 years. This time for the Habanos Festival and to compete for the UK in the Habanos Sommelier world championship.

Favourite places to smoke cigars?

The Mark’s Club terrace by the fireplace, or with my friends working at 5 Hertford Street and The Arts Club. This business is all about friendships and learning. We are all fortunate to have people like Edward Sahakian to learn from when we visit him at Davidoff St James’s.

Having left a career in finance for hospitality, Darius started at The Wolseley before opening Chiltern Firehouse as their head Maitre d’Hotel. He oversaw the refurbishment of Mark’s Club where he is currently club director.

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