Frank Laino, Executive Concierge at the Stafford London.

Who: Frank Laino

What you do: Executive Concierge at the Stafford London.

Where is your hometown? Were you born here or did you move here? London born and bred.

What makes you consider it home? I know the lay out of the city like the back of my hand, but it’s constantly evolving and changing.  I love exploring it and discovering new things and places.

What is your favorite local dish and/or place to eat? I love a traditional savoury pie – The Windmill Pub in Mayfair has won many awards  and the steak and mushroom pie is killer.

What is your favorite place to stay when you are “home?” Has to be The Stafford 🙂

And where do you suggest that travelers stay to feel “local?” We always say “Welcome home,” to our guests and we love to create that “home from home” feeling. You always know you are in London when you stay at The Stafford.

What unexpected activities can you experience in your hometown? Don’t even know where to start….graffiti tours, beekeeping and honey classes + gin safaris come to mind.

What’s a neighborhood I need to explore off the tourist map?  Not sure Hoxton and Shoreditch are considered off the beaten path anymore but so vibrant Peckham is the new Shoreditch- it’s still only for the brave!

What makes your hometown special/unique? I love all the traditional things that people love about London…the history, tradition, parks, landmarks etc but more than anything I love the constant evolution and vibrancy of the city… there is an energy you can feel.

What is your favorite memory in your hometown? Why? My first visit as a kid to the Natural History Museum when I was 7 years old. It was like entering a whole new world and realizing that I lived in an amazing city.

Why would someone want to visit your hometown? Why wouldn’t anyone NOT want to visit London?

What song best represents your hometown? London Calling by The Clash…no-brainer.