Thomas Kochs's My London

The manager of Claridge’s buys flowers from McQueens and ties in Mayfair

Thomas Kochs, manager of Claridge's

8 February 2013

Where do you live?

In Chelsea. I’ve lived there since I moved to London and I love that it has a neighbourhood feel.

Best place for a first date?

It depends on the date but for me The River Café always feels like a discovery and it’s so romantic by the river, especially on a summer’s evening. Or Cecconi’s for a chicer, more metropolitan vibe.

Building you’d like to live in?

The Bibendum building in South Kensington, both architecturally and for its interesting history, although I’m probably biased because of the great shop, restaurant, oyster bar and florist they have so cleverly set up there.

First thing you do when you arrive back home?

Fill my fridge with food from Waitrose and order flowers from McQueens, the best florist in town. They know my taste and always choose something unusual.

Best place to let your hair down?

Going out can sometimes feel like a busman’s holiday; wild nights in Shoreditch House are over, with a few rare exceptions. So it tends to be at friends’ houses these days.

Who do you call when you want to have fun?

Kristy, our head of entertainment, is on my speed dial. She always has her finger on the pulse and knows who’s in town for a fun event. She really catapults me into a different world.

Last show you saw?

The ballet Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland at the Royal Opera House. I loved the interpretation. I don’t visit the theatre nearly as much as I would like but sometimes I get invited to first nights by guests at the hotel.

What would you do as Mayor?

Lose the congestion charge and improve parking. I’m very reliant on my car. My New Year’s resolution is to try a Boris bike.

Favourite club?

The Arts Club on Dover Street. It has a great atmosphere and the seafood bar is a favourite.

Best place for a nightcap?

The Connaught Bar. I used to work at the hotel and I still find myself drawn back by the chic design, the legendary Bloody Marys and the theatrical Martini trolley.

Best thing a cabbie has said to you?

‘Your doormen are the best in the town.’ We have regular cabbies who sit on the rank outside Claridge’s, some are part of our hotel family.

Ever had a run-in with a London policeman?

I am pleased to say I haven’t!

Favourite discoveries?

The London Silver Vaults on Chancery Lane are a real treasure trove. I have sourced things from there for the hotel and my home.

Building you’d like to be locked in overnight?

It would have to be Whole Foods. I can spend hours looking at delicatessen counters and the cheese shop is always tempting.

Best piece of advice you’ve been given?

‘Make sure you always have a bottle of champagne in the fridge,’ from my father.

Earliest London memory?

My godmother took me on a trip to London when I was 12. You couldn’t get me off a red bus — upper deck front row, of course — and I loved the Changing of the Guard.

Favourite shops?

I have so little time to spare so I find Harrods the perfect one-stop shop. I am currently creating a new kitchen and have a thing for collecting Mauviel copperware. Allens of Mayfair does the best meat, served by the most knowledgeable butchers. For handmade British ties, I go to Drake’s on Clifford Street; in a world of navy and grey suits it’s fun to choose new ties.

At the moment you are…

Creating The Red Room at Claridge’s, a special place to do business in style. It’s designed by Linley and right now I am testing out the chairs and every conceivable business gadget, which is great fun.