photograph by manfredi bellati

LONDON/TRADITION

Time to go home. Sambuca, our hostess's faithful Springer Spaniel is on the door steps with us while we try and flag down a cab. It's 9.30 a.m. and it takes us more than forty-five minutes to find one and just make it to the airport with fifteen minutes to spare. So if you are ever in the Chelsea area remember this crucial time in the mornings. We had a blissful visit with Elisabeth and Sebastian and were spoilt rotten and treated to private and exclusive military events and places. We still remember Elisabeth's delicious quick and easy Fish Chowder: Peel potatoes, cut into small chunks and cook with stock and a bay leaf until they are nearly done. Cut fish in chunks (you need a mix of fresh fish and some smoked fish), put aside. Saute' some spring onions with some mushrooms in butter, add the cooked potatoes and hot stock, add the fish, cream or creme fraiche and parsley. Turn off the heat and serve after a few minutes. I highly recommend this warm and substantial soup. Thank you so much for having us.