Amy's reviews
Review of Twinkled
16 May 07, 17:50
Retrosexual nirvana 
This lovely retrosexual store in Kingly Court sells everything from the Thirties to the Sixties that's kitsch and classy. There's a great selection of homewear, like Babysham glasses, bar tools or even vintage swizzle sticks, plus there are more substantial items of furniture. The vintage clothing is good - especially the accessories (like Mary Quant tights and socks in their original packaging). Plus, the staff are normally kitted out in nominally Fifties garb to look the part, are full of advice about how to complete a look, or where to go if they don't have something in stock. All in all, a real find that you'll happily spend half an hour exploring - and probably buying up.
1 out of 1 person found this review helpful.
Review of Cowling and Wilcox
15 May 07, 14:23
Old masters 
This large, old-fashioned shop is packed with everything from large-scale canvases to easels, portfolios and all the necessary to create your artwork (spray paints, cards, acrylics, oils, watercolours, brushes, pencils, and pens, card - more or less anything you could need). There's a large cutting board and scalpels available for clients to use to resize card, and the atmosphere is convivial - however, the prices are hugely inflated compared to CASS Art around the corner - a difference not really worth paying for a bit of old-school ambience.
1 out of 1 person found this review helpful.
Review of Sacred Cafe
14 May 07, 09:26
Nice teapots 
This newish coffee shop on Ganton Street is the place to go for unusual teas served in unusual teapots. Fair-trade coffee, cakes and pastries are also available. Smoking is allowed though, which can be horrible if it gets busy. Staff are pleasant, and it's worth a visit if you're after a bit of respite from the streets of Soho.
1 out of 1 person found this review helpful.
Review of Zest Essentials
05 May 07, 13:27
A spoonful of sugar
This pharmacy far exceeds the realms of Brill Cream and blister plasters with a great range of gift ideas, cards and odds'n'sods, plus staff on hand with pretty sensible sounding advice for health-related queries. The grooming brands are pretty high-end (Neal's Yard, Babington House), though it also stocks the old-school essentials like soaps for old ladies, hairgrips and the like.
1 out of 1 person found this review helpful.
Review of Mo Tearoom
02 May 07, 17:25
Boho chic
This North African style tearoom is a relaxing spot tucked away off Regent Street and is the little sister of Momo (next door). In addition to the lovely selection of (mainly mint) teas, you can get pastries and mezze from the shared menu. Shisha pipes are on offer too. The seats and stools are very small, so perhaps not one for claustrophobics.
1 out of 1 person found this review helpful.
Review of Japan Centre
01 May 07, 20:03
Easy peasy
This long-established store caters for all your Japanese culinary needs. Whether you're just starting out sushi-making and are in search of rolling mats and seaweed, if you're an afficionado, or if you're an ex-pat looking for a taste of home, this is a one-stop shop. Dried soups, noodles and sauces are all on sale, though the stock here goes far beyond the basics. Staff are well versed on the myriad products on sale, and can answer can help you track down whatever you're looking for.
1 out of 1 person found this review helpful.