Juno-nominated R&B artist Emanuel shares his hometown hangouts in London, Ont.

London, Ont., is known as a university town, thronged with Western students when class is in session (at least in typical years). With moments of both bustle and calm, it’s also noted for the Thames River running through the city centre and the lush green spaces surrounding it. For Emanuel, a rising R&B artist with smooth vocals who counts actor Idris Elba as a fan and was just nominated for his first-ever Juno Award, it will always be home.

“London nurtured me. It raised me through good times and bad times. It’s brought me to where I am,” says the singer, who is set to drop new music this spring. “It’s a secret gem for music and art, and there’s real passion among the amazing people you meet. It’s not a place to sleep on, because the world could definitely benefit from some of the beautiful art that comes from this city.”

Here, he shares just some of his favourite spots that make London special.

For family-style meals: Enat Restaurant (223 Wellington St.)

“Enat Restaurant is a hub for Ethiopian culture in London,” Emanuel says. Amharic for “Mom’s Restaurant,” the social spot has been a staple since 1994, offering savoury stews and other flavourful dishes served traditionally, without utensils. Though he’s trying to eat less meat, he can’t resist the doro wat, a chicken dish in an “amazing” red pepper berbere sauce.

For a low-key hangout: Pond Mills Pond (700 Pond Mills Rd.)

At about 200 hectares, the Westminster Ponds/Pond Mills region is London’s largest publicly owned Environmentally Significant Area. It’s home to five kettle ponds, 11 kilometres of rolling trails and prime bird watching. Emanuel, however, is drawn to the serene dock at Pond Mills Pond for chill hangouts with close friends. “We love to talk and take in the beauty,” he says. “It’s a spot I can remember having important conversations. It’s really special to me.”

For thrifting thrills: AgedGoods (344 Richmond St.)

“I love to buy vintage and thrift in London. There’s a really dope spot called AgedGoods,” Emanuel says. “I constantly find myself buying clothes from them — I grabbed a Carhartt vest today.” AgedGoods is rife with cool street-style finds, from old-school concert tees to oversized Princess Di–worthy sweatshirts. (The shop is operating on Instagram at @agedgoods while distancing measures are in place.)

For the people-watching: Harris Park (531 Ridout St. N.)

When the artist is looking to burn off some energy and feel connected to the community, he heads to downtown Harris Park, on the edge of the Thames River. “I love running there,” he says. “I love seeing people come out with their families and their dogs.” There’s also an amphitheatre, which hosts a booming three-day music festival called Rock the Park, currently slated for July (health guidelines permitting).

For a traditional coffee ceremony: Tg’s Addis Ababa Restaurant (465 Dundas St.)

“I grew up not realizing Ethiopian food could be healthy and delicious at the same time — that marriage is hard to find in this world,” says Emanuel, recommending the fare at this casual, art-filled spot. “It was beautiful to find a restaurant like this catering to that.” Addis Ababa also practices the traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, roasting beans fresh for those who order, allowing guests to enjoy the aromatics.

The Star understands the restrictions on travel during the coronavirus pandemic. But like you, we dream of travelling again, and we’re publishing this story with future trips in mind.