Harrods in London

The world's greatest department store was established on its current site in 1849 by Charles Henry Harrod, a wholesale grocer. Harrod's son Charles Digby rapidly grew the business and by 1880 employed 100 staff.

Never one to be bowed by setbacks, not even a devastating fire in 1883, Harrods went on to make all its Christmas deliveries in that year and many since. Whether flying fresh fish to Alfred Hitchcock or embalming Sigmund Freud's body, the store that promises 'Everything to Everybody Everywhere' never fails to deliver.

Much of the architectural additions - including terracotta tiles and Art Nouveau windows topped with a baroque dome - can still be seen by a careful observer. What you won't see is the original Winnie-the-Pooh. A.A. Milne took that home for his son, Christopher Robin.

Throughout the decades Harrods has housed a funeral service, a lending library, and even sold airplanes and elephants. Today, the selection is possibly larger. The expansion began when the Fayed family acquired the House of Fraser Group (and thereby Harrods) for  615 million ($1.1 billion) in 1985. Another  300 million investment for refurbishment brought the department store to a new peak.

For those looking not merely to buy - but to experience - on any given day you may find opera singers performing at the top of the Egyptian Escalators or a future star serving at one of the counters. Pierce Brosnan once worked in the Pharmacy and the original Darth Vader was a fitness consultant in the sports department.

While your 'assistant' is booking theater tickets, have a facial in the salon or relax at the Irish spa. When you're done, visit Donatella Versace discussing a new perfume.

But for those who do want to shop... Wow!

In these seven floors, once housing the world's first escalator, can be found 4.5 acres of... well, everything. And thanks to the 12,000 lightbulbs you'll have no difficulty seeing it. Even if all you want is a humble drink of cool water, you can have a sip drawn from one of the under-the-site artesian wells. (The deepest is 489 ft, 149 m).

You could even purchase your own custom-made Madame Tussaud's waxwork - for the price of a small study. If you're on a budget, you can bid for the 24-karat gold Lindt bunny.

On the way out, since you haven't any money left, take a look at the extraordinary chandeliers or the specialized jewelry. But be sure to bring your ear plugs and elbow pads. Harrods is full not only of a million square feet of merchandise, but hordes of shoppers and visitors from all over the world.

Food at Harrods

Harrods' Food Halls, renowned as one of the world's premier food emporiums, offer an extensive array of gourmet experiences. Located on the Ground Floor of the Knightsbridge store, the Food Halls are divided into several sections, each dedicated to specific culinary delights.

Here you can purchase any of over 300 varieties of cheese or have a unique chocolate drink, such as an Italian 'suckao' available from the Chocolate Bar.

Fresh Market Hall: This section presents a vibrant selection of fresh produce, including exotic fruits, artisanal cheeses, and premium cuts of meat. Highlights include the bakery, where the baker's bell signals the arrival of oven-fresh sourdough and other delights, and the fishmonger counter, offering sparkling seafood from Britain and beyond.

Dining Hall: Adjacent to the Food Halls, the Dining Hall comprises several restaurants, each offering unique culinary experiences. Notable establishments include pasta, fish & chips and sushi restaurants.

The Dining Hall also features live music entertainment from Tuesday to Saturday, enhancing the dining experience with performances ranging from jazz to soul and R&B.

In line with its commitment to offering unparalleled culinary experiences, Harrods has introduced new dining options and collaborations. The addition of Dim Sum by China Tang brings gourmet Cantonese cuisine to the Dining Hall, featuring dishes like pillowy pork buns and spicy chicken dumplings.

For those seeking a quick yet luxurious meal, Harrods offers premium grab-and-go options. However, some offerings, such as the high-priced pasta from Pasta Evangelists, have received mixed reviews regarding value for money.

Overall, Harrods' Food Halls continue to be a destination for food enthusiasts, combining traditional favorites with innovative culinary ventures to cater to a diverse clientele.

Harrods is easily accessible via the tube (the London Underground subway system). Exit at the Knightsbridge station.