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Mel C’s My London: dinner at Dorian, park walks and hoarding trainers
North London, it’s cosy, a place that feels both calm and inspiring, where green spaces, creativity and a sense of community come together. It’s where the pace softens just enough for you to breathe, think and feel grounded — a neighbourhood that feels like its own little world, even within a big city.
Where was your first flat in London?
I moved to London from the North to study when I was 16. I lived with families for the first couple of years, then moved in with friends in Sidcup, Kent. I also shared a flat with Mel B and Geri in Finchley Central and I’m sure you can imagine how noisy we were, our poor neighbours. We had a plaque at the front door engraved “Spice HQ”.
Where do you stay in London?
Claridge’s is my favourite hotel, I love the feeling of being transported to another era as you walk through the doors. Afternoon tea or a cocktail in one of the bars there is a real treat.
What was your first job in London?
After leaving performing arts college in Kent I recorded vocals for a theatre production. I was auditioning for a lot of West End productions like Cats when I was handed a flyer to audition for a girl band — that band became the Spice Girls.
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Where would you recommend for a first date?
A walk in one of our beautiful parks, Hyde Park, Regent’s Park or Hampstead Heath, and if it’s going well a cosy little pub is never far away.
What’s the best meal you’ve had in London?
We have some fantastic restaurants in London, my current favourite is Dorian in Notting Hill. I also love Mexican food — Kol in Marylebone is extraordinary.
What would you do if you were Mayor for the day?
London is an incredible city but we are often accused of not being the friendliest bunch. I’d like to change that by encouraging people to chat on public transport and on the street, make our city feel more of a community.
What makes someone a Londoner?
The beauty of this city is its diversity, many things can make you a Londoner.
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What’s the best thing a cabbie has ever said to you?
Almost every black cab I jump in I have a lovely chat and the cabbie tells me how his favourite song of mine is When You’re Gone, my duet with Bryan Adams.
Have you ever had a run-in with a London police officer?
Only in Spice World the movie and Emma got us out of that.
Where do you go to let your hair down?
If they haven’t started there, the best nights will always end up in Soho for sure.
What are you up to at the moment for work?
I recently released a new song called Sweat, it’s the first single from my upcoming album out on May 1. I’m playing the Brixton Academy in October this year. I’m so excited, I’ve never played there and it’s such an iconic venue.
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I have a ridiculous amount of trainers, an obsession that started in the 1990s. My go-to is Nike Air Max 90s — I have them in so many colours as I love to coordinate.
What’s your favourite London beauty spot?
Nilam Holmes has just opened in the Melia White House hotel — she and her team are the absolute go-to for all your beauty needs. It’s a beautiful space and you leave feeling and looking brand new. Samantha Cusick is my favourite hairdresser in town, she has salons in Notting Hill, Fitzrovia and Liverpool Street. All the stylists are lovely and brilliant — their cocktails are amazing too.
What apps can you not live without in the city?
If you live in London you need Citymapper, it’s really easy to use and will get you anywhere you need to be. I’m a big lover of Lime bikes so I couldn’t live without that app too.
