At the Table: Annalisa Ferraris
An evening of candlelight, conversation and considered rituals. We join Anna Lisa at the table to talk hosting, routines, and the beauty of slowing down over good food and better company.
Talk us through a typical day in your life.
Where does it start, and where does it usually end?
My day usually starts with some kind of physical activity, my PT keeps me in check- and then a walk with my husband and our dog, home for a coffee in the garden and then into the office or kitchen to start my day.
I'm usually writing my columns, planning menus, curating events, or cooking. I love that no two days are exactly the same- each one feels distinct, and exciting in its own way.
By day's end it's either yoga, a swim, or a martini. If it's been a particularly heavy week of cooking, I love going out to dinner with my husband- trying a new restaurant, having a few good cocktails, then cycling home
You're known for hosting beautifully considered dinners.
When you're setting the table or styling a space, what matters most to you?
The fine details-always. Hand painted menus, napkin folds, thoughtful seat placement, and a considered aesthetic throughout. I want each evening to feel cohesive, intentional, and quietly memorable.
Your practice moves between food, art and experience.
Where does a new idea usually begin, and how do you know when it's worth pursuing?
I'm an ideas machine- constantly imagining, dreaming, planning. Most ideas are conceived on a walk. From there, I'll start shaping them in a sketchbook or on Canva, then I'll pester my husband, family and friends until I've assessed whether it's worth pursuing. And once I decide it is- I don't stop until I've explored every possible way to bring it to life.
You spend a lot of time creating spaces for others.
What makes a house feel like home to you?
When you can feel the people who live there woven throughout the space. Nathan and I share a love of furniture, art, and antiques we've collected on our travels- little pieces of us dotted throughout the house, tangible layers of time spent together.
And there are subtle odes to our life together too- no framed wedding photos in the main living areas, but instead a blue bar for making cocktails, a quiet tribute to when we met both working in bars.
When it comes to entertaining, what are the non-negotiables?
The things you always have ready, no matter how informal the night.
Ice- in varying forms and in abundance. There's nothing worse than running out.
My top hack: empty and clean a freezer drawer, fill it with bags of ice, and invest in a proper ice scoop from a hospitality supplier. You'll be soirée-ready at any given moment.
Favourite local places to eat or drink.
The rooms you're drawn back to, and why.
Local favourites would have to be Civico 47- Italian, wholesome yet elegant, with a seasonal menu that always tempts you back to see what's new.
For drinks, Fred's. I love the choice of a moody martini indoors, or a street-side table where you can watch the world drift past.
A room I'm always drawn back to is Barons. It feels unmistakably European- layered, atmospheric, full of things to look at, flavours to discover, and a deep appreciation for a skilled bartender.
At the Table Favourites
Must-have pieces form the collection, and how you imagine using them. At a dinner, late at night or just for yourself.
Given my stance on ice and its importance- The art-deco, stainless steel Monumental Ice bucket is a must have, as is the monumental serving tray- It's endlessly versatile- I've used it for oysters, pastries, and even shallow floral arrangements. It's chic, beautifully proportioned, and works in almost any setting.
