My Plate & Place with… Melinda Messenger

Melinda can regularly be seen on our screens, taking part in discussions and debates and guesting on programmes including Good Morning Britain, This Morning and Loose Women on ITV1, The Jeremy Vine Show on Channel 5 and Talk Radio and BBC Radio 2. She was also chosen, with a handful of other female celebrities, to go and live on a Greek Island to try and find love in ITV1’s acclaimed series, My Shirley Valentine Summer in 2018, and in the same year took part in Celebrity First Dates for Stand Up to Cancer on Channel 4. During her modelling career, she fronted big campaigns for British Home Stores, La Senza, Ultimo and Vivienne Westwood.

She lives in the Berkshire countryside with her three grown up children and two dogs.

Describe your perfect day in London?

My perfect day in London would start with a visit to the Dream Research Institute in Little Venice to do some dream work. It’s such a calming and inspiring environment, and I love exploring the subconscious and how dreams connect us to our inner selves; it’s a real passion so it doesn’t feel like working for me. To be in an environment with like-minded people is a wonderful experience and we are always fascinated by how the subconscious can play out our fears, happiness and even potential illnesses in our dreams. 

Favourite restaurant?

Well, that’s easy, it has to be the Charlotte Street Hotel. It’s perfect at any time of the day, whether it’s for a casual coffee for a meeting or a delicious lunch or dinner with friends and family. The atmosphere is so relaxed yet stylish, and the food never disappoints – I can honestly say the food is delicious. It feels like a real slice of luxury in the city.

Best place for brunch?

Brunch for me when I’m at work at the Dream Institute is often at Beany Green in Paddington. I eat there a lot and it’s always tasty, well prepared, healthy and organic food. Being organic is important for me and my family. I only want to eat unprocessed foods. This Australian café by the canal serves the most delicious organic and healthy food. They have an incredible array of salads and legumes, but my absolute favourite is their Eggs Royale with smoked salmon. Being a pescatarian, it feels like the perfect indulgence while staying healthy.

What was the last museum or gallery you visited?

The last museum I visited was the National Portrait Gallery. There’s nothing better a wander around a museum or art gallery. Their collection is incredible, featuring some of the greatest artworks in history. I went with friends for a lovely day out, and it was both inspiring and grounding just gazing at the work of the greatest artists on earth…so mesmerising!

Where are the best places to shop?

I love the variety London offers. Oxford Street is fantastic for high-street shops and amazing deals, but for something a bit quirkier, I adore Covent Garden. It’s full of little independent shops, and my favourite is Watkins Books – I can easily lose myself there for hours. And of course, the largest Waterstones in Piccadilly is my idea of heaven. I could spend an entire day browsing and sipping tea there.

Preferred bar or pub for a great night out?

The Spaniards Inn in Hampstead is a favourite of mine – it’s like stepping back in time with its old-world charm. For something a bit livelier, I love The Ivy Club. It has such a vibrant crowd, especially from the entertainment industry, and there’s nothing quite like a sing-along around the piano to cap off the night.

Favourite tipple?

I’m not a big drinker, but if I do indulge, it’s usually a ginger beer. I think some brands can be alcoholic, but I love ginger and it’s a refreshing drink. Or a straight single malt whisky – preferably by a roaring fire. That’s my idea of a cozy evening.

Most relaxing place to unwind?

For me, it’s got to be a bookshop in Little Venice. There’s something about the smell of books and the quiet, reflective atmosphere that instantly relaxes me.

If you had only one day in London, where would you visit?

If it’s a social visit and not work-related, I’d head to Hyde Park to watch the parakeets and squirrels. Then I’d spend time exploring the Science Museum and the Natural History Museum. On a more recent social occasion, I attended a lecture at The Royal Institution by the Durrell Foundation on conservation. I’m a huge admirer of Jane Goodall and love anything related to the Royal Geographical Society or conservation efforts.

What is your top London tip?

Always do your research to find out what’s happening in the city! London is full of interesting talks, events, and speakers. I love attending the Mind, Body, Spirit events at St. James’s Church in Piccadilly. Battersea Power Station also has some fantastic new spaces to explore.

Tell us what you are currently up to?

I’m wearing a few hats at the moment! I’m a psychotherapist and dream guide, which are both incredibly rewarding roles. I’m also still active as a TV presenter. Currently, I’m co-hosting The Dream Boat podcast with Laura Payne from the Dream Research Institute, where we delve into the fascinating world of dreams and their meanings.

I’ve also taken on an exciting new challenge—I’m playing the Wicked Queen in the pantomime Snow White at Middlesbrough Theatre! It’s a role I’ve never performed before, and I even get to sing in it. The cast and crew are amazing, and I couldn’t ask for a better team to work with. I love seeing children and their families completely engrossed in the story. It’s hard work, but totally worth every single show. Seeing the joy and excitement on the audience’s faces is just magical! 

2025 is going to be a very busy year with some amazing and rewarding projects being developed for me on and off the screen, so keep watching my social media when I can reveal all!

For tickets and more information, please visit the Middlesbrough Theatre Box Office. You can also contact the box office directly at 01642 81 51 81. 

Make sure to follow Melinda on Instagram @melinda.j.messenger_ to keep up to date on her latest news and projects!