Weekly R.E.P.O.R.T
(fortnightly*)
Another weekly (or if I am being completely honest - fortnightly) R.E.P.O.R.T. It’s been another hectic few weeks of deadlines and a case of writer’s block, my rhythm has slipped and so I have decided to set aside the next couple of days to refocus and dedicate time to the ATDE Substack. Starting with a classic catch up in my favourite season feels the most manageable right now…
November couldn’t have arrived at a better time. I'‘ve always thought there are two types of autumn people: the spooky season enthusiasts and the cozy season lovers (and yes, you can be both). I am definitely the latter. Once Halloween is behind us and I’ve finally gotten over my hangover, I’m ready to settle into slower days of reading, long walks and the embodying my full Rory Gilmore potential. There’s something about this time of year that invites reflection and quiet productivity, the perfect environment for new ideas, gentle resets and being unapologetically disconnected.
Reading:
Eating:
I don’t think I could have had a more autumnal Sunday, one of the dreamiest I’ve had recently. I spent the first Sunday of the month in London visiting my boyfriend, and after a slow, lazy morning, we set off from Borough Market and wandered all the way to Soho in search of the perfect (and affordable) roast dinner.
Along the way, we stopped at The Ship Tavern on Gate Street, a classic 16th-century pub that was buzzing with chatter and charm. We tucked ourselves away with a pint and a crossword, the kind of simple moment that felt like I was in a cozy novel. (Upstairs, they serve their own roasts, though it books up fast so one to try for next time!)
Eventually, we landed at The Porterhouse on Maiden Lane near Convent Garden, where we finally found our roast. It was everything you want from a Sunday lunch, generous, hearty and reasonably priced (especially for London). Despite being a spawling pub that stretches across multiple levels and hidden nooks that almost feel like you’re in the Labrynth of breweries, The Porterhouse somehow keeps that intimate atmosphere. The perfect mix of warmth and liveliness, especially with the football playing on the many screens tucked around. - We’ll definitely be back!
Playing:
I’ve been really focusing on finding a better work-life balance this season. As the clocks go back and the days grow shorter, it’s all too easy to slip into a cycle of nothing but work (which makes it even more important to dedicating time to play). Lately, I’ve been leaning into the slower pace, puzzles (tis the season) from crosswords to jigsaws, and a few new bits and bobs I’ve been playing on Spotify.
It’s been almost 3 weeks since Lily Allen’s fifth album, West End Girl, was released and I am still not entirely sure what I make of it. My first run through of the album was defiently a jaw-to-the-floor moment of what on earth. However, I must say it’s growing on me… And who tf is Madeline?
THIS is art. No notes, no comments it is a blessing to your ears.
Obsessing (over):
Admittedly, they’re not the most practical shoes for a UK autumn, but I’m still completely obsessed with my Puma Speedcat ballet pumps. They’re unbelievably comfy and instantly elevate even the simplest outfit. (FYI the outfit pictured was my ‘I’m hungover and I have to get a 4 hour train outfit’ okay!).
Recommending:
Mountain - Beak Street, Soho
This recommendation is on the pricier side, but it was too gorgeouse not to mention. After out Sunday roast, we wandered into Mountain, a spanish restaurant with a warm, understated elegance that instantly draws you in. While their menu celebrates Spanish flavours, their wine list spans the globe.
Due to their licensing, you do need to order some food if you’re drinking, but that can be as simple as bread and butter or even just an oyster each. Since we’d already had a full roast, we opted for bread to share and even that was simply heavenly, mountain knows how to turn simplicity into luxury. Also I have to mention the staff were SO lovely.
(And for those who know, you know, the wine glasses were the perfect skinny stem.)
Treating:
I tend to find that once I come to the end of my weekly reports, the R.E.P.O.R is the TREAT. My bank account is in need of a break, so instead here’s a few pictures from Halloween - a treat to see my wonderful friends.
P.S - It worked - this Weekly R.E.P.O.R.T has lighted the love for writing again!