Polish fashion designer Magda Butrym's guide to the perfect weekend in Warsaw

Where to eat

Nolita is a must for fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere. Chef Jacek Grochowina combines classical Polish influences with cutting-edge cuisine. I love this place for the simple decor and amazing dish presentation. The table by the kitchen is the best seat in the house as you can see the chefs in action. Polish cuisine is exciting, rich and… delicious. Perhaps it’s not the world’s most famous food, but it’s certainly one worth trying.

Where to visit

Be sure to see the exhibition pavilion (above) at the Museum of Modern Art next to the Copernicus science Center and Vistula River. The area by the river wasn’t popular for years, but with all the new developments it has become super trendy. Visiting the exhibitions together with a stroll along the shore and a drink in one of the summer bars is a perfect way to spend an afternoon. The pavilion is a unique, wooden, modular construction designed by the brilliant Austrian architect Adolf Krischanitz. It was also designed so that the façade can be used as a canvas by artists.

Where to shop

Top of my list is Mokotowska Street, one of the most beautiful Warsaw thoroughfares that survived the Second World War and preserved its old character. It’s perfect for window shopping as it’s full of small boutiques such as Wonders or the best flower shop in town, Bukieciarnia. Try Przegryź for Warsaw’s best pierogi or Słodki Słony if you are a fan of all things sweet, including traditional Polish yeast cakes. Another great place is the concept store Galilu, which offers niche cosmetics and perfumes. It is one of the only places in Warsaw that sells my favourite skincare brand, Omorovicza.

Where to drink

Cocktail bar Charlie is a hidden speakeasy situated on the first floor of a beautiful old apartment building offering great music and real Warsaw society. The cocktails (below) are addictive, but the most interesting aspect is the ‘subconscious menu’, from which clients can order mystery drinks based on their scent. The music changes with a new daily theme, playing everything from indie pop to slow jazz — recently it held a Gatsby night. Few people know about the bar, so you will often find the cool kids of Warsaw’s creative scene there.

Where to stay

The fin-de-siècle landmark Hotel Bristol was gutted during the Second World War, but sensitive renovation has restored many of its art nouveau flourishes. Its location, between the old town and historical shopping street, Nowy Świat, is ideal. Look out for the beautiful Column Bar or Café Bristol, which is one for those with a sweet tooth.

Rooms from £75 (hotelbristolwarsaw.pl)