Christian Slater's London

Christian first appeared in London's West End in One Flew Over the Cookoo's Nest in 2004. His portrayal of Randle Patrick McMurphy won great critical acclaim.

More recently, he's played movie producer Buddy Ackerman in a darkly comic modern thriller, Swimming With Sharks. The play's based on the cult 1994 film with the same name.

Christian says he can't wait for his next spell in the West End, saying it feels like "coming home". We asked him what it is about London that he loves so much.

Interview: September 2007

Q: Where did you last eat out in London?

A: I've eaten at a great place in the Dorchester just recently – China Tang. Their crispy duck is excellent.

Q: Where do you think serves the best London breakfast?

A: My buddy actually makes a mean breakfast. But if I'm eating out, I like Bon Gusto. I like full English breakfasts; the eggs, bacon, toast, all that. And then there's 202, which is a great place to eat. They have the best French toast.

Q: What's the best party you've been to in London?

A: I went to a great party at the V&A for the launch of their Golden Age of Couture exhibition. It was spectacular. Glorious location; an elegant, beautiful, graceful, gorgeous night. There were great works of art all over the place – both living and ancient...

Q: What's the best play, gig or comedy act you've been to in London recently?

A: I saw Frost/Nixon last time I was in town. That was great. 

Q: What's your favourite London icon?

A: Ooh, that's between Big Ben and the London Eye, I guess. I've been up the London Eye with my kids; it was really fun. I walk across the Thames everyday to go to work, and just love seeing all those gorgeous sights.

Q: Where do you think's the most romantic place in London?

A: St James's Park is beautiful. I think it's great to be able to rent a chair there, and spend time with someone you care about.

Q: What's your favourite shop in London?

A: Bamford & Sons. Great clothes and really nice people.

Q: What's your top tip for visitors?

A: 51 Buckingham Gate – it's the best place to stay. The staff are brilliant, they have impeccable service, gorgeous rooms. It's right next to Buckingham Palace, what more could you want?

Q: If you were Mayor for the day, what would you do/change?

A: I'd maybe do something about all this traffic that you've got. And all the construction that's going on. The traffic's not great.

Q: Maybe everyone should ride bikes instead of having cars, to help the traffic problems?

A: Hey, that's a great idea! Everyone should ride bikes – good one. Pretend I said that.

Q: If you were invisible for the day, where would you go?

A: Maybe storm Buckingham Palace. I tried it once already, you see, and it didn't work because I wasn't invisible. They weren't too happy about it, they were like, "Hey, Christian, what are you doing here?"! So maybe I could try that again.

Q: If you could go back to any period in London's history, when would it be?

A: I don't know. I don't think any period with rationing would be that much fun.You know, I think the present is the best time. Right here, right now, right this moment.

Q: If you could take one piece from a London museum or gallery, what would it be?

A: I'd take a portrait from the National Portrait Gallery. A big one. I don’t know who of, but that's what I'd do.

Q: What do you miss most when you're away from London?

A: Ahh, the people. They're amazing; welcoming to visitors, friendly, vibrant, exciting. I love this city. I feel like I come alive when I come to London. It's great.