Ombre is the latest brow trend you’ve probably seen taking social media by storm. Ombré eyebrows or ombré powder eyebrows is a semi-permanent method of shading brows to perfect their shape without all the effort of filling in with a pencil everyday. An ombre brow treatment fills in sparse and wispy brows using a gradient effect for a very natural finish. By not fully saturating the brow with pigment, the subtle color transition adds depth and definition without the “blocky” solid look that can happen with other semi-permanent brow treatments.
For people who have oily or combination skin, or who fill their brows regularly with pencil or pomade, Ombre brows are a Godsend. However, as with any type of semi permanent beauty treatment, finding a skilled professional is key to achieving these instagram worthy arches. House of Coco headed to brow experts Blink Brow Bar to get the skinny on this latest trend.
How is it different from microblading?
The main difference between the two semi permanent brow techniques is the way the pigment is deposited into the skin. Christina, a senior technician at Blink explains: “Microblading uses a hand held tool to carve small cuts into the skin with pigment to achieve realistic hairlike strokes that blend into the natural brow whereas ombre brows are done by using a digital machine that places extremely tiny dots of pigment into the skin to mimic a soft shaded effect similar to a brow pencil look or a shaded brow.”
An important factor to note is that microblading does not work for all skin types. Microblading is not great for oily skin as the color does not show up effectively and can look blurry. Natural oils can also prevent the brows from healing properly. It’s also worth noting, according to Christina that ombre is generally far less invasive than other brow services
What can I expect when I have a treatment?
There are 3 steps to the process for ombre eyebrows:
Step 1: Consultation
This involves having a patch test 48 hours before the treatment and also some initial brow mapping and pre drawing to find a brow shape that’s perfect for you.
Step 2: The treatment
This typically takes about two hours and consists of prepping the area around the brows by threading and cleaning up the area. After choosing the right pigment, the therapist will then apply topical anesthetic which sits for roughly 15- 20 minutes. Whilst this is happening the professional will do the brow mapping and measuring, and create a frame around the brows to map where to add the pigment which is then added using a needling process. Your brow shape will be customized and shading only begins after you have agreed to the shape. Christina loves this technique because it works for both those who have sparse brows as well as the more blessed who have naturally fuller brows full hair. It’s also great for those who have previous microblading work and looking to redo their brows. Immediately after the treatment your eyebrows will look darker and may feel tender. This is nothing to worry about as the color will fade to a more natural look. As your eyebrows heal, they will shrink and will look much more natural in appearance over the next 4 weeks with more of a soft powder look. Christina stresses that with Ombre healed results are better and last longer than other brow services.
Step 3: Touch up
A touch-up session is strongly recommended 4-8 weeks after the initial session to achieve optimal results and this appointment takes approximately 2 hours.
What is the aftercare post treatment?
Typically, following ombre treatment brows will take seven to 14 days to heal. During the first seven days, you should avoid getting your ombré eyebrows wet. Ditto for intense exercise, makeup, and prolonged exposure to the sun. Applying an ointment daily can help to accelerate the healing process. When you have ombré brows done, your therapist will give detailed instructions on aftercare on the day of your appointment.
Is it suitable for everyone?
Ombré brows are suitable for all skin types and are an ideal option for oily or sensitive skin. Christina explains that those who have oily skin will have longer lasting results with microblading than they would with Microblading. Because they require fewer touch up appointments and last 1 to 3 years (depending on skin type, aftercare, lifestyle and other factors), they’re a great option for time poor people. You can also personalize the density, so how light or how dark you would like the brows to be is entirely bespoke to your preferences.
How long does it last?
Ombré shading graces you with one to three years of low maintenance for your brows. The average lifespan of microbladed brows is 18 months to 2 years, while ombre brows last longer due to the technique used.
Book your appointment with Blink Brow Bar for an initial consultation. Prices start from £450
With summer around the corner, and holiday season beckoning, many of us yearn for lower maintenance, get- up – and- go beauty routines. We’ve all been there: ready to go out but having to deal with the frustration of applying fussy false strip lashes or trying to scrub off stubborn mascara after a night out when all you want is your bed.
Eyelash extensions can be the answered prayer, for a lower maintenance option that negates the need for mascara or fake eyelash. They achieve what mascara can never and will never achieve, no matter what the formula promises.
It is important though to do your research before embarking on your fluttery eyed journey as they do require specific aftercare, and not insignificant investment. It’s essential that you know how to choose the best lashes for you, the proper aftercare and all the do’s and dont’s that you need to know upfront.
In our quest to achieve voluminous lashes worthy of Queen Cleopatra we turned to the experts at Lash Perfect to get the inside scoop and experience a lash treatment first hand…
Consultation
Understanding the type of lashes you have is the first step in determining what lashes will be best for you. The length, curl and texture of your lashes is the first thing that your lash technician will look at together with your eye shape, face shape and bone structure to determine the most flattering style for you. Natalie, who is senior technician at Lash perfect advises; “Every client differs in terms of their natural eyelash type and condition, and it’s your lash tech’s job to determine the right style for you. A good tech will tell you upfront if the style you want to achieve is not right for you – in the nicest way possible of course.”
Wearing the wrong lashes can actually ruin your own natural lashes so it’s important that your consultation and treatment is done by a certified lash specialist. Once this has been established the technician can then work deftly and precisely to give you your bespoke finish.
What can you expect at the appointment?
Having lash extensions done is no quick in and out job. On average you’ll need to set aside about 2 hours for your treatment for a full set or refill. Your lashes are thoroughly cleaned before applying the lashes to ensure that there’s no product on them which might prevent the lash extensions from adhering properly. Since my lashes were all different lengths and curl types, Natalie explains what she had to do to work around this: “I had to place lashes really carefully! Some natural lashes just do their own thing, so I had to play around with placing lashes at different angles while ensuring a perfect bond between natural lashes and extensions. I also used two different curls on Bandi to ensure the best look was created – CC and DD worked really well on her! “A good lash artist will know to mix different lash types to give you the wispiest, most flattering lashes. “The worst thing a tech can do to fine lashes is apply an extension that is too thick or too long – this will weigh down the lash and result in an unflattering droopy effect. Not the one.”
After care
Your lash technician will advise on the aftercare protocol for your specific lashes. As a general rule, pulling at them, rubbing them, washing your face with oil based cleansers is a sure way to shorten their life span. Use cleansers such as The Lash Perfect microfiber cleansing cloth and Lift Off Foaming Cleanser which are specifically formulated for eyelash extensions and won’t weaken the bond and cause them to shed prematurely. Natalie also advises that wearing an eye mask to bed at night will also help to keep your lashes longer. “The Lash Perfect eye mask has a soft, contoured design to protect the eye area and prevent eyelashes and eyelash extensions from being crushed while sleeping.” which means it’s gentler on extensions compared to a standard eye mask.
Do I need to brush my lashes?
In order to detangle and fluff out your lashes when you wake up or after a shower, Natalie advises brushing them everyday with a soft spoolie. The correct technique is to brush down from the top side of your lashes so that you’re not tugging at the lashes as you brush them. Gently use the tip of the spoolie to avoid pulling any out. It’s also important to never pick at your lashes as you will end up damaging your own lashes in the process. You’re best off either leaving them alone until they fall off themselves or head back to the salon for refills.
How long do they last?
If looked after properly, eyelash extensions can last for 4- 6 weeks until they naturally shed in the same way that your natural lashes do. Once they start falling out, though, you can go back and have your lash stylist fill in the missing pieces. It is recommended to have an infill every 2 – 3 weeks to keep lashes looking fresh, however this depends on your natural growth cycle and the style of lashes you have. You might want to top up with mascara when the lashes start to shed, and its important that you use one like the Lash Perfect oil-free black mascara that is especially formulated for lash extensions “The number one thing you need to do to keep your lashes looking great for as long as possible is cleanse cleanse cleanse! Along with brushing, cleansing helps to remove any debris that could impact the longevity of the lashes and keeps them styled neatly“
How much does it cost?
The million dollar question! Costs will vary depending on your requirements following a consultation to determine the best lashes for you. “Lash Perfect trained and certified techs tend to offer lash extension treatments at a starting point of around £60 for classic individuals and around £80 for Russian volume, hybrid and more bespoke extensions” Remember everyone’s eye shape, lash texture and curl is different so what you may pay may vary from someone else who has different requirements than you.
Inspired to get your lashes ready for the holiday season? The lovely people at Lashperfect are offering House of Coco readers 20% off all retail items until September 30th 2023 using our exclusive code COCO20 at checkout.
If you’re a Korean food enthusiast, run, don’t walk to Korean Grill Kensington, one of London’s finest Korean restaurants. Korean barbecue never looked so fancy at KGK with every table in this elegant establishment fitted with a grill that comes with clever buttons at the side of the table for easy operation.
Whether it’s the bibimbap, bulgogi or barbeque that you’re after, KGK has got you covered. The dining experience here is Omakase- which translates to “I’ll leave it to you”. It’s a dining tradition where you hand control over to the chef, allowing him to delight and surprise with a selection of dishes from across the menu.
We started with the gloriously fresh tomato and grape amouse bouche. This was followed by a selection of tasty appetisers including a delicate pile of lush, green, beautifully seasoned spinach, pickled cucumber and marinated courgette. We made short shrift of the glass noodles with vegetable and the delicious shredded fried potato with the soy-based dip.
The real fun began when it was time for the DIY element of the dining, the Korean Grill. We went for the KGK Signature King Kalbi – the well- marinated Diamond Cut Beef Short Rib. Our attentive waitress seared, sizzled and trimmed the succulent meat which we then slathered in sesame oil before hoovering it up. Just when we thought we were done, a lip-smacking dish of Dolsot Bibimbap, a moreish dish of hot stone rice with assorted seasonal vegetables and beef topped with an egg yolk, made an appearance. It was delicious.
We finished strong with a traditional Korean dessert of homemade roasted soybean Ice-cream.
THE BUGIS SINGAPORE RESTAURANT
Set inside the elegant Bailey’s Hotel South Kensington, The Bugis is a smart dining room, serving stunning Singaporean, Malaysian and Chinese food. Well heeled locals as well as diners from far and wide flock in their droves to enjoy the heartwarming menu in a smart but relaxed atmosphere where the decor discreetly nods to South East Asia.
The menu is lengthy and utterly delicious, choosing which dish to pick is quite a difficult task. Start your dinner with flavoursome deep-fried spare ribs with garlic spice and chilli. The succulent golden king prawn with salted egg yolk and curry leaf is another great choice. The jumbo soft shell crab salad is equally impressive and the dim sum basket is a great scene setter before moving on the bigger dishes.
From the mains try the flavoursome and the succulent Malaysian style Fish “Ikan Bakar” or the grilled British lambchop with Five Spice which is positively mouth watering and. We also loved the generously portioned poached Hainanese chicken with ginger, chilli and dark soy which is accompanied by the fried assorted vegetable rice. There is an extensive selection of vegetables to choose from to support your mains, the wok fried broccolini served in its all gleaming glory is a great choice – it’s as crunchy as it is tasty.
Make sure to leave room for pudding, the fresh mango coconut cream and Tapioca pearl is exquisite and for a simpler option, the ice cream mochi is a crowd pleaser and perfect palette cleanser for rounding off a delightful dining experience.
FARZI CAFE
Farzi, a slick Indian bistro in the heart of the west end, certainly feels like a restaurant for special occasions- the furnishings are glossy, the service is slick and the food is impressive. The menu is best described as modern Indian- using the best ingredients in Indian recipes that are as inventive as they are tasty.
Kick things off with a tipple from their cocktail menu that offers an extensive selection of both signature and “Farzified cocktails.” The mesh cocktail is standout, with its moreish mix of pink pepper gin, saffron, coconut water, coconut, kombucha, rose and pineapple blossom. From the non-alcoholic selection, the chai lychee is a simple yet satisfying combination of lychee coconut, lime and sweet chai.
You’ll be hard-pressed to choose from the tantalizing and eclectic small plates menu. We recommend the avocado chaat, a full, cool and fragrant dish of avocado mash, roasted corn and crispy chana daal. The Dal chawal arancini with char papad which is presented on a bed of chutney is both wholesome and moreish. Also try the lamb momos, which are warmly spiced, light-steamed parcels made better by the spicy dips that accompany them.
The main courses are pretty impressive too, with an emphasis on fragrance and delicacy running through most of the dishes. Try the goat shawarma biryani, a hunk of slow-cooked tender meat soaked in thick garlic and yogurt and gravy with fragrant pilau rice and fried onion. Order a side of creamy pomegranate and mint raita to complete what is a stunning plate. Another la carte highlight includes the lobster moili risotto, a turmeric and coconut infused creamy curry risotto topped with robata grilled lobster. Throw in a couple of freshly baked, charcoal- blistered naans for a truly authentic take.
The portions are generous but if you can make space for pudding, the homemade traditional indian desserts are sure to impress. The saffron millefeuille, all tangy creamy filling and crunchy wafer is a star turn as is the vegan cheesecake with rhubarb compote and raspberry sorbet.
Don’t miss: From the end of May, Farzi will be adding 12 Ayurvedically inspired tasty cocktails to the menu. These will use carefully selected tinctures, herbs and spices with a cocktail to match each of the different star signs. The astrology inspired cocktail menu will feature concoctions that are meant to energize, harmose and purify.
THE RESTAURANT AT ST MARTIN’S LANE HOTEL
With a plethora of dining options in Covent Garden it’s easy to forget that the restaurant at St Martin’s Lane Hotel is still one of the most beautiful dining rooms in London. Dinner at the Philippe Starck-designed space is still a most dazzling spot for an intimate date night in London.
The menu, like the deco, is also on point. Choosing from the starters is a really tough work but you won’t go wrong with the octopus carpaccio, a pretty dish enlivened by ezme, which is a Turkish condiment, shaved fennel and caper salsa. Fish lovers will adore the wonderfully executed tempura soft shell crab accompanied by avocado puree, pickled black radish and lotus root.
From the main courses, the succulent lamb canon is rather excellent and comes with an divine harissa couscous and deliciously pulpy baby aubergine. The Canadian Lobster thermidor with asparagus, celery, parsley, and bisque foam is fantastic. A mango chilli caviar adds a pleasantly surprising sweet note to the dish. Of course you have to have this with the fries – that have a delicious filthy hit of rosemary and balsamic that cuts through the creamy lobster filling.
From the dessert menu, the black forest gateau is a devilish treat. This classic is presented as a gleaming orb (complete with gold flakes) with a tart cherry bavarois, cocoa nibs and the creamiest Tonka ice cream. The mascarpone panna cotta is also a stunner, a wobbly delight infused with rosemary, raspberry, and rose tea served on a bed of refreshing granita. For the savoury toothed, the cheese board featuring a selection of cheeses, quince jelly, and crackers is wonderful, and even better when paired with the port that comes recommended by the wonderful team.
Post dinner, a nightcap at the hotel’s cocktail bar is a must. A mere couple of steps away from the main restaurant is the Blind Spot cocktail bar which ambitiously offers flavors from around the world inspired by 25 destinations. Roll into there for a nightcap and spin the globe and choose from their selection well as enjoy bespoke and signature cocktails.
Service, as you’d expect is top-class, with a friendly, efficient team who will bend over backwards to ensure you have a wonderful time- it’s high-end food in an environment entirely devoid of stuffiness, perfect for an enjoyable date night.
FEELS LIKE JUNE
It’s always “summer” at Californian cool eatery, Feels Like June. Tucked between and betwixt a maze of Canary Wharf skyscrapers alongside a gorgeous waterside vista, this insta-worthy restaurant and bar provides the perfect backdrop for a glamorous yet laid-back date night.
A verdant dining room with touches of gold and pastel tones in the deco, along with splashes of art effortlessly oozes Californian chic. The food also riffs off the decor- its fresh simple fare designed to please all palettes. The menu is a sharing one and what better way to start than with the heirloom tomato bruschetta, which is no ordinary bruschetta. It’s sunshine on a plate elevated by the addition of sweet shallots, together with the creamiest ricotta cheese and basil. The gleaming padron peppers are beautifully charred benefiting enormously from the piquance of chili and lime. Hummus never looked so sexy: the silky smooth roasted red pepper rendition topped with pomegranate and walnuts is sure to impress.
Not trying the tacos would be tantamount to sacrilege given the Californian inspiration behind Feels Like June. The Taco bar offers a selection of meat and vegetarian tacos and its hands down the crispy spiced chicken tacos with mango salsa, avocado, herb aioli, lime and coriander that steal the show. The crisply gem lettuce salad with avocado and tomato comes in a generous portion drizzled with a tarty and tasty buttermilk ranch dressing in true Californian style.
Lovers of dramatic cocktails will adore the Mezcalito, a daring concoction of Del Maguey Vida, manzanilla dry sherry, pink grapefruit, lime basil syrup and saline solution. The intriguing minimal colada is a refreshing grown-up take on the classic pina colada, that fuses coconut rum, banana liquor, coconut water and acid syrup.
If you have room for pudding, the homemade chocolate brownie with clotted cream ice cream and pecan praline is heaven on a plate. Vegans won’t get left behind and will be delighted with the apple and toffee upside down cake with coconut yogurt, chili mango. https://feelslikejune.com
STICKY MANGO
Situated on the corner of Coin St near Waterloo, this charming establishment serves contemporary South-East Asian dishes in a stunning setting. The décor at Sticky Mango – a dark palette bedecked with ornaments and giant spring blossom installations – is an appealing backdrop for an equally impressive menu.
The space is split into 3 different dining rooms – The Blossom Tree room, The Orchid Room & Terrace, and the Copper Blossom Room and Bar- each themed around a different blossom. All of the rooms can be hired for private events and provide a truly stunning setting whether for a date night, a wedding dinner or even a corporate event.
The cooking here is equally as captivating and packs a flavorful punch. Thank goodness for the generous 9 flavor menu that allows you the very best of many outstanding dishes. Kicking things off is the Thai green papaya salad with charred green beans, cherry tomatoes, cashew cashew nuts which is as fresh as it is tasty, striking a moreish balance of fiery chili and ginger with the sweet papaya and nuts. The Malaysian chicken curry puffs with coriander dipping sauce are perfect little pockets of light puff pastry that go down easily. We loved the black pepper prawns with dehydrated pineapple, jicama and pea shoots which deliver beautifully on both pepperiness and juiciness.
Then we moved on to the slightly larger plates and were impressed with the The monkfish which was beautifully cooked and served with a lip smacking Malaysian chilli sauce, bok choi and apple blossom. And just when we thought the menu couldn’t get any better along came the stunning Mamak BBQ chicken- a real statement dish adorned with red chillies, brussels sprouts, fresh coriander and a secret peanut sauce which the chef would probably have to kill you for if you found out the recipe.
The big flavours extend to the cocktail menu which changes every month and proffers intriguing concoctions such as the Blossmopolitan, which mixes plum sake, cointreau, cranberry juice and lime or the clever Rose and hibiscus pisco sour which combines Macchu Pisco, Lime, Rose Liquer, Hibiscus infusion and egg White.
There is a theatrical end to the dining experience with the dessert in the form of a sticky mango pudding, perched on a bed of sticky black rice that comes in a shell which is melted at the table and falls away to reveal slices of mango.
https://www.stickymango.co.uk
TATTU
There is no denying that Tattu is well on its way to establishing itself as one of London’s best Chinese restaurants. The thrilling experience begins as soon as you turn into the glamorous ground floor alleyway, bedecked with psychedelic floor-to-ceiling digital art and leading to a lift that whizzes you all the way up to the 6th floor of this stunning rooftop restaurant.
Every detail is designed to impress at Tattu, from the sultry lighting that creates a sense of intimacy across the 4 dining rooms to the stunning Cherry Blossom installation that sits at the heart of the restaurant, not only unifying the space but also providing a perfect Instagram moment. The new Cherry Blossom installation is to celebrate the custom of “hanami”, the Japanese tradition of enjoying the transient beauty of flowers. It’s a breathtaking backdrop for food that is equally awe-inspiring.
Begin your date night at The Phoenix Bar, the inspired cocktail bar where the mixologist will tantalize and tempt you with their thrilling concoctions. Try the best seller, Skull Candy, a sweet treat of vodka and bubble gum that comes in a skull-shaped vessel complete with billowing smoke (a recurring theme at Tattu). There is also the Plum Blossom Sour, a refreshing mix of plum, hibiscus and violet that will invigorate the tastebuds.
Start with dim sum and we recommend the mixed selection comprising perfect steamed parcels of wagyu, black cod and prawn, and shitake and royal koi fish. Then from the raw plates, the yellowtail sashimi with citrus ponzu, garlic and edamame is a velvety delight that melts in the mouth. The satay beef ribeye is delicious and arrives encased in a giant leaf for a truly dramatic presentation. This is served with fresh papaya som tum & peanuts. For fish lovers, the red snapper tom yum with lemongrass, kaffir lime leaf is sumptuous, and we especially loved the accompanying curry sauce that it came with. The Tattu Candy Rice, flavoured with orange, candied ginger and beetroot was the unexpected standout dish which should not work on paper, but does and beautifully so. To wash it all down, go for the crisp rose house wine that balances the richness of the dishes perfectly.
Unsurprisingly, the inventiveness extends to the dessert menu which is theatrical food at its absolute best. Go for the signature Cherry Blossom dessert, a mini cherry blossom tree of candyfloss and chocolate that comes perched atop “chocolate soil” and is served on dry ice that billows out (I did mention that billowing smoke is a recurring theme). We also loved the presentation of The Phoenix Nest, a sticky fantasy pudding that combines peanut butter fudge, honeycomb and marshmallow filling. Indeed the entire experience of Tattu is the stuff of fantasy and an undoubtedly impressive date night destination.
https://tattu.co.uk/locations/london
THE IVY SOHO BRASSERIE
Date night in Soho has been revved up a notch with the launch of Ivy Soho Brasserie’s new Champagne Dinner offering. Every Friday couples can now enjoy a 3-course dinner complete with a bottle of the finest French Champagne.
Couples can kick things off by sidling up to the impressive bar and enjoying a cocktail from the extensive cocktail list before settling into one of the cosy cubbies and getting stuck into the impressive menu. The Champagne Dinner includes a few crowd-pleasing favourites as well as some inspired new offerings.
Diners can feast on a selection of starters including fragrant Malaysian curried prawns served with choy sum and crunching with toasted coconut and coriander, or the very glamorous Champagne Salad of Mexican avocado and butterhead lettuce and mixed soft herbs. From the main courses, you’ll be hard-pressed to choose between the faultless Norwegian salmon fillet with a champagne and caper sauce (the Champagne theme is strong) and the sizzling sirloin steak with brandy and truffle sauce which might prove to be a pull-too-hard to resist. Vegetarians or those seeking a lighter option will be wowed by the slow-baked aubergine complete with carefully roasted red pepper tapenade. The best bit? All the dishes are served with a side of silky smooth olive oil mash.
Date night isn’t complete without a shared pudding and the Dream dessert is perfect for this. Couples will coo over this indulgent creation that combines crispy Madagascan vanilla cloud with warm chocolate brownie, vanilla ice cream and hot yuzu caramel sauce. If sharing isn’t your bag, then go ahead and snaffle the ice cream profiterole with chocolate mousse and edible gold solo. No judgments here. For a lighter end to the meal the lemon sorbet served with shortbread will tickle the taste buds just enough and round off the perfect date night meal, and at such an accessible price point. Cheers to that!
If you want to make your next steak dinner one to remember then it gets no better than at Heliot steakhouse with its theatrical setting inside London’s Hippodrome Casino. With serious Las Vegas vibes it’s a unique dining experience that gives you a bird’s eye view of the casino floor while you pore over the comprehensive menu. The intimate balcony setting kick starts a date night to remember.
The food is as glorious as the setting. We recommend the deliciously smoky grilled octopus with roast potatoes and tarama to kick things off. The seabass ceviche with pineapple and yuzu also makes for a zingy opening act before getting stuck into the mains. The meat offering at Heliot is extensive and it’s global: USDA prime steaks, English Hereford fIllet, Irish Wexford Tomahawk, Argentinian rib eye, and Finnish fillet all vie for your attention, and if you can’t choose, you have the option of ordering the tasting board which comes with 3 flavorful steaks from 3 countries served with 3 sauces. The steaks are cooked to order and drizzled with a generous selection of toppings: pepper sauce, red wine sauce, chimichurri, bearnaise sauce and garlic butter. Crispy shallots, wild mushrooms and roast bone marrow can also be piled on for good measure. Aside from the excellent steaks, make sure you try the slow cooked short rib with maple glaze and shallots.
The sides are legendary: the cheese-laden millionaire’s mac & cheese topped with poached egg and truffle is a must-try and the homemade chunky chips are perfect for soaking up the juices. The wine list is great here too with an excellent selection of 120 options. Go for the aromatic Crasto Doc Red to go with your steak. Round off your dinner date by sharing cookie cheesecake with vanilla ice cream, or for a more memorable ending, the white chocolate and chocolate tree are rather special.
Also worth noting is that Heliot Steak House has also just launched its new monthly ‘Steak and Wine Club’ featuring a bespoke menu of globally sourced cuts of meat, expertly paired with wine from around the world.
It’s easy to see why Spanish tapas chef José Pizarro’s self-titled Pizarro restaurant can lay claim to being one of London’s most outstanding Iberian Eateries in the city. Pizarro is a small but perfectly formed restaurant with dark elegant interiors, chic spanish vibe and an infectious garrulous energy.
Quality ingredients and exceptional cooking make for an elevated dining experience at Pizarro. Pitch-perfect renditions of the tapas classics like the excellent pan con tomate and mixed andalusian olives marinated in Moorish spices dominate the selection of cold plates. Meat and fish have a starring role in the hotter tapas dishes, as in the gooey jamon croquettes and mussels in spicy sauce and coriander. The grilled squid, creamy potato, pine nut and jamon picada is flawlessly executed. From the generous mains, the suckling lamb with potato coated in yogurt aioli is a gutsy and glorious signature dish that is an absolute must-try. The wine list is extensive and a pleasure to explore, with plenty of stunning by-the-glass options. For the final act, we recommend the zesty catalan custard with pear sorbet or if you still have room, alight on the chocolate tart with cream cheese ice cream and honey.
Atop the DoubleTree by Hilton, a short walk from Tower Hill Tube station sits a sparkling restaurant bar attracting a swanky Saturday crowd and fans of adventurous mixology. Savage Garden is exactly the kind of plush bar you would expect to find on top of a smart hotel – glossy aesthetic, smooth service and an extensive drinks menu. The views are fantastic, with enough landmarks in sight to keep you entertained on your date. Look out past Tower Bridge, across dramatic views of the Southbank skyline and sweep your eyes along to the river to spectacular views of The Shard. The terrace leads drinkers out of the plush indoor bar to the long deck with unbeatable, all-encompassing riverside views.
Foodwise there is an impressive selection of snacks and sharing plates. From the former we loved the goats cheese, pea and tarragon croquettes and the roasted cauliflower with labne, zhoug, chilli roasted grains. Bigger plates include Citrus buttermilk chicken sliders with kimchi slaw. We also recommend the soft burratina served with smoked tomato basil and generous lashing of honey and the Instagram-ready crispy squid stick. Round things off with doughnuts served with sticky sweet salted caramel and raspberry sauces. Don’t worry about the calories, you can always dance those away as the DJ spins the decks into the wee hours.
Top tip: ensure you get there early to bag a table with a view and stay as the evening stretches into the night and enjoy the lounge’s intimate ambience with DJs setting the tone every Friday and Saturday evenings. Kick off with one of the spectacular cocktails, Devil’s Advocate which is a punchy blend of Olmeca Bianco, Merlet Creme de Cassis, pink grapefruit and lemon, and fresh sage with a spicy finish. For a smoother finish, St Olave is a winner, mixing Money 7 gin, Gosnell’s Meda, lemon, Benedictine, smoked oak and foam.
https://www.savagegarden.co.uk
JERU
Since opening its doors in 2021 Jeru has firmly established itself as a popular dining destination in Mayfair and with good reason. The brainchild of feted Aussie chef Roy Ner, it’s traditional Middle Eastern food with a contemporary take. You won’t be served any hummus, baba ghanoush or falafel here unless it’s with a twist.
The aesthetic at Jeru is undeniably glamorous, The interiors’ sandy palette conjures Middle Eastern vibes, with honey-hued wooden floors beneath dark wooden beams and beautiful lampshades dispersing seductive lighting and setting a romantic mood for date night. Chic interiors and stellar food probably best describe an experience at Jeru- The menu is designed to be shared meaning you get to experience a selection of beautifully presented dishes. We recommend sampling the chef’s selection menu which includes stunning starters including a moreish wood-fired potato bread with truffle honey and chick pea miso butter, velvety mushroom hummus with black chickpea, garlic and parsley. Chargrilled aubergine with tahini bullhorn peppers and mint salsa jostles for ‘favourite” position whilst the wafer-thin, melting slices of 400-day grain and olive-fed wagyu salami adds a delicate touch.
It’s evident from the cold and hot mezze selection that Ner is on a quest to push Middle Eastern food out of its comfort zone. The Tuna ceviche with smoked labneh, orange and tamarind dressing is a masterclass in delivering sweetness and acidity harmoniously. The audacious halloumi doughnuts with goats curd, lemon and truffled honey are reason enough on their own to come back to Jeru. The inventive charcoal roasted aubergine with macadamia dukkah with smoked tahini refuses to be outshone as a definite star in what is a very competitive line up of dishes.
A firm Marylebone fixture and neighbourhood favourite, Brasserie 108 remains one of London’s chicest eateries where polished French sensibilities and a cosmopolitan vibe collide. The posh dark bar and the elegant red leather upholstery set the scene for a memorable date night before you’ve even ordered from the modern French-accented food menu.
Picking highlights is tough but from the starters menu, the Jersey rock oysters with shallot relish is a stand-out dish, packing a delicious vinegary punch whilst the sprightly tuna ceviche with avocado, chilli and citrus dressing is a love letter to seafood lovers. For vegetarians, order bread just so you can slather it with dollops of buffalo milk burrata with chargrilled peppers, datterini tomatoes and capers. From the mains, the rib eye steak topped with cafe de paris butter and marvelously crispy fries is as succulent as it is indulgent. The classic, carefully composed black cod filet swaddled in a miso glaze, pak choi and sticky jasmine rice is confidently cooked and will melt in your mouth. The pudding menu offers a plethora of tempting options for a pleasurable finale. Begin your sweet avalanche with a classic vanilla creme brulee with English shortbread and finish with the decadent profiterole smothered in dark chocolate sauce and backfilled with a crunchy hazelnut praline. As if the food isn’t enough, 108 is a dream for Oenophiles, with an extensive and impressive wine list to perfectly accompany all your dishes. With service as smooth as the silkiest bearnaise sauce, and food that is impressively rendered, Brasserie 108 is undeniably a top spot for a refined, memorable date night.
From the fluffiest pancakes to the freshest of smoothies we’ve rounded up some of the best brunches in London.
Gilgamesh
Gilgamesh in Covent Garden is the re incarnation of the iconic and original outpost that dominated the Camden dining scene for those old enough to remember. Having closed its doors in 2018 it’s reimagined itself as a restaurant, lounge, bar and stunning Brunch hotspot in Covent Garden. Although it’s retained the familiar Babylonian-themed interior and pan-Asian menu, the recently opened iteration it looks and feels more modern and is definitely the spot to be seen in and and to see.
It’s not all aesthetics though, Gilgamesh is still a powerhouse when it comes to the dining experience. To truly enjoy the best they have to offer, booking a table for their popular weekend brunch menu is the way to go. It’s a wonderful blend of sharing plates for starters followed by a main course and the prettiest sharing dessert platter for the table to round of what is a truly spectacular 3 course meal.
There is the option of either the House Bunch Menu or the Premium, the main difference being that the latter comes with a premium sashimi selection. From the starters you’ll love the steaming edamame with sea salt, and the crunchy, flavoursome Chicken Kara-Age. A firm favourite is the Sweet Potato Korroke, a type of lightly fried sweet potato cake. The vegetable spring rolls won’t last for more than 5 minutes, you’ll be left yearning for more. The green leaf salad with Wafu dressing is an elevated take on a staple that adds another dimension to the meal. The mains are equally tantalising and you’ll be hard pressed to choose one, but the rib eye bulgogi with chive mash is a winner. For the fish lovers, the Salmon Teriyaki is a melt-in-the- mouth sensation. The whole affair is exquisitely executed from the warm welcome the moment you arrive to the delectable dishes that are on offer.
The best bit? Your brunch comes with free-flowing wine throughout your meal -it feels like a day party that you wont want to leave.
The Gilgamesh weekend brunch menu is available every Saturday and Sunday (12pm-3pm)
The Blues Kitchen
In a world of over-wrought, look- a-like brunches, The Blues Kitchen offers a different take from the usual brunch staples. This is southern dining at its decadent best. It’s hard to think of a better way to while away a couple of hours than in this dim lit haunt on a Saturday afternoon thanks to its unique combination of delicious grub, top-quality cocktails and chilled out vibes. Distinct southern comfort oozes from every surface.
The menu shuffles and showcases the best of American southern cuisine: From the small plates, the juicy buffalo chicken wings arrive at your table not only glistening beautifully but also packing a tangy punch. The szechuan baby back ribs coated in soy glaze and chilli are lip smackingly good, and will have you gleefully licking your fingers as if nobody is watching. The crunchy blue corn tortilla with hot, cheesy spinach artichoke dip is a must try, just be careful not to fill up on that and save space for the larger plates.
While The Blues Kitchen is known for their incredible burgers and fried chicken, we recommend venturing afield in terms of the menu and trying the blackened cajun spiced salmon with creamed corn and crispy new potatoes. If you’re craving something a little more indulgent try a stack of buttermilk pancakes with maple syrup and bacon. For sweet toothed brunchers, The corn bread with dripping honey butter is a highlight. Accessorize this with their famous lychee martini cocktails or for a bottomless option, rum punch or mimosas are also on offer. Factor in the delicious slurpy milkshakes and you’ll have won the day before it’s even the afternoon.
Don’t forget to finish off in true American style with baked white chocolate and ginger cheesecake topped with caramelized bananas, it’s a taste sensation you don’t want to miss. And if you’re even still able to move afterward, you’ll be perfectly placed to wander around Shoreditch and walk off some of those calories. Sounds like the perfect Saturday to me!
Aussie chain Daisy Green has brought phenomenal Antipodean inspired brunch all the way from Sidney to Paddington dock and gifted us Bondi Green, one of the best places for Saturday brunch in London.
Bondi is a sprawling affair with plenty of seating, lots of natural light, insta-friendly decor and a faultless food menu proving that style and substance can happily co exist. Don’t go expecting your standard avo on toast brunch fare- kick things off with the fancy bacon roll, with poached eggs, crispy onions, back bacon, h*ly fuck hollandaise, chilli, paratha roti and avocado. The famous sweetcorn fritters with smashed avocado, poached eggs, red pepper, habanero and almond sauce, feta and corn rib are also a must have. The decadent desserts include the award winning banana bread sandwich, with whipped mascarpone cream, fresh berries, flaked almonds, and honey. Our favorite though has got to be the peach melba french toast with torched peach, coconut yogurt, freeze dried raspberries, toasted coconut flakes for a grand finale. The portions are super generous, the service is friendly and efficient and if your brunch experience at Bondi is anything like ours, you’ll bounce out of there with a huge smile on your face. The 3 course brunch is available from 10am- 4pm and includes one savory dish and one sweet dish. Grab a sparking kombucha to wash it all down or make it boozy with Daisy Fizz for £49.
Decimo
The Standard Hotel at Kings X is home to Decimo where the Saturday brunch is a huge draw. Up high on the top floor, overlooking the grandeur of the St Pancras building, Decimo boasts some of the best dining views in London and is the spot to see and be seen in. The team at Decimo know their way around a menu too, serving the most flavorsome weekend brunch in London. The food is a fusion of Mexican and Latin mouth watering delights that offers a distinctive and unique take on brunch. From fish tacos to the decadently rich dish of huevos a la flamenca- baked eggs cooked in a tomato sauce to the creamy shrimp tortilla the menu is pure brunching perfection. A manchego quesadilla sounds simple enough but at Decimo it’s elevated to something more sophisticated. All this can be washed down with a refreshing cocktail if a boozy brunch is on the cards. We recommend the fino highball which is a thrilling mixture of Pisco, Fino sherry, lemon, thyme, chilli lime and tonic For the sweet toothed, dessert doesn’t disappoint -go for Tres Leche, an ultra light sponge cake soaked in a sweet milk mixture.
Brunch is available every Saturday between 12- 2.30pm.
Apothecary East
The clever people at Apothecary East have brought a phenomenal Japanese Izakaya inspired brunch all the way from Tokyo, to Shoreditch. Izakaya is an informal eating and drinking place where diners relax and unwind over drinks and small plates of freshly prepared food. Whilst the plates may be small, the flavors are big and the cocktails are killer when it comes to the weekend brunch menu at this Tokyo inspired gem.
Settle into one of the secluded alcoves or one of the many cozy banquettes and eat your way through a mouthwatering 5 part menu sectioned into distinct categories for easy navigation: gyoza, grilled veg options, hirata buns, fried food and pudding are all on offer. A bowl of edamame and a welcome glass of crispy prosecco gets things going and before you know it you’re tucking into a steady stream of mouthwatering dishes. The steaming chicken gyoza is a cracking dish while grilled cauliflower with black sesame is a revelation in how when executed right even the most boring of vegetables can be zhuzhed up. The smoky tenderstem broccoli is also very good. The infamous hirata buns also jostle for ‘star of the show’ accolade, in particular the standout Japanese fried chicken one that comes coated in sriracha mayonnaise with kimchi and pickles. The miso glazed aubergine is a stunning combo of crispy skin and soft centre with just the right amount of coating.
It goes without saying, that this wouldn’t be a true Japanese experience without sushi, and it’s definitely the main event here featuring all the familiar favorites including a vegan option Yasai lucky roll with cucumber, avo, mange tout, chives and teriyaki. For fish lovers the Chirashi lucky roll is sure to impress. If you still have room for dessert, try the house ice cream that comes in exotic flavours like black sesame. For less adventurous palettes, the passion fruit sorbet is a great way to round off the feast. Brunch at Apothecary East is £35pp with the option of a £25pp upgrade for for free flowing cocktails.
Yopo at The Mandrake
If you’re beginning to get bored of your standard avo on toast brunch fare, then get yourself down to Yopo in Fitzrovia.
Yopo, (named after a hallucinogenic drug) is the flagship restaurant of the Mandrake Hotel, the five-star luxury boutique hotel in Fitzrovia famous for its urban oasis jungle inspired decor. The psychedelic art and the 10 foot tall ostrich, complete with snake neck and ducks beak, that takes pride of place in the dining room certainly lends a “trippy” feel to the experience. For a decadent Sunday experience, it’s hard to top the jungle style terrace complete with ethnobotanical cocktails and a live DJ.
Then there’s the food. The Shamanic Brunch is a South American inspired fare that can be enjoyed across 3 courses including shared starters. Your culinary journey begins with the spelt and wholemeal sourdough, butter & olive oil, which is freshly baked and served warm. Sizzling padron peppers swiftly follow together along with crunchy corn chips that are served with tomato chipotle topped guacamole. The crab and apple tostada complete a stunning trio of starters.
The main course part of the menu shows off some the best of Yopo. The Chorizo & Poached Egg Muffin with Chimichurri Hollandaise is an absolute show stopper. The Butter Milk Fried Chicken Bun with Guacatillo Slaw, Jalapeño & Smoked Cheddar isn’t quite as exciting but will please less adventurous palettes. Uniquely, this brunch offers unlimited sides with the choice of house fries with chipotle aioli or grilled broccoli & courgettes with salsa verde. From the sweet section of the menu, the silky smooth Island Chocolate Mousse with toasted Coconut, Passionfruit & Buckwheat perfectly sounds things off. The drinks are equally impressive, with a cocktail menu that is completely bespoke to The Mandrake. We recommend the best-selling Mangosteen, an elevated take on a margarita that has a splash of mango with chilli and salt on the rim, and can be dialed up or down according to your personal taste.
The Shamanic brunch is £65pp with the option to upgrade to £100 for the bottomless option with cocktails or £110 for free flowing rose.
Few things are more beloved than a Sunday roast. It’s the perfect way to round off a lazy Sunday with friends and family. With a plethora of options, finding the perfect spot for your Sunday roast can be a minefield. House of Coco have done all the work for you and we are sharing our top picks for a roast in London, to help you find your perfect match.
PARAKEET
A Sunday Roast that features a live fire grill as part of its repertoire is sure to grab attention. Former head Chef of Brat, Ben Allen knows that and he’s brought his smoky magic to The Parakeet in Camden to deliver an audaciously brilliant Sunday dining experience. The first thing you notice before you even sit down is the stunning decor at Parakeet starting with an impressive pub with dark furnishings and a massive bar that runs down the length of it. Then there’s the enticing heavy velvet curtain that sweeps open to reveal the expansive wood panelled dining room replete with a semi-open kitchen where the chef skifully chars, roasts and grills over a live fire grill.
You know you’re in for a treat when you look at the menu which has a focus on British dishes and produce harvested at their seasonal height. Before tucking into the food, in addition to an extensive wine list, you have the choice of imbibing a negroni, paloma, bloody Mary or a blood orange spritz for those who are tee total.
An impressive selection of small sharing plates kicks things off. The potato bread arrives at your table warm and spongy with aromatic smoked butter on the side that melts as soon as you slather it across the bread. The cordial olives are fresh and make a great accompaniment to the bread. Then there’s the oysters with red apple, pickled kohlrabi and chilli that have delicate sweetness to them and will melt in your mouth. The starter menu is a real fish lovers delight – with the grilled prawns and brown butter dripping in garlicky deliciousness maintaining the strong seafood theme.
The mains take things up a notch. There is a choice of lamb, hay smoked roast chicken, roast beef and celeriac wellington to choose from. All come with all the trimmings: spring greens, roast pink fir potatoes, seasonal root veg, Yorkshire pudding, and carrot and swede puree. The lamb is succulent, perfectly pink and revels in the smoky flavours that envelope it. The beef comes an impressive 2nd after the lamb as a choice of dish, delivering on flavour in bucketloads. Uniquely, Parakeet also has sea bream to share as part of the Sunday Roast offering, a freshly cooked and beautifully charred hunk of fish that you will remember for a long time after you’ve visited Parakeet. The leek gratin with its creamy deliciousness adds a wonderful richness to the whole affair.
The glutton in you will not be able to resist the pudding menu. The tangy Kalamanso sorbet is the tangy palette cleanser that you’ll probably fancy after an indulgent main course but its the sticky toffee pudding that you’ll want to write home about- it’s a steamy, sticky generous wedge of happiness that you’ll somehow manage to squeeze in before you head home feeling about half a stone heavier and most definitely 100% satisfied.
If you’re looking to mix up your Sunday roast then head to Kudu Grill for a South African twist on the Great British classic. As the door pings open a heartwarming scene of deep greens, wood paneling and exposed brick welcomes you in. It’s a lively hubbub of conviviality and there’s barely a table free in sight, testament to the venue’s immense popularity. The Kudu Grill experience is centred on a traditional South African barbeque, also known as a braai where everything is cooked on open flames.
Kalahari spiced biltong feels like the appropriate starter to this unique experience and the flavorsome grilled potato bread with lardo and garlic is the reason tear and share was invented. You can literally taste the spirit of South Africa in the Grilled prawns drenched in peri peri sauce.
Then it’s onto the roast itself. On a sizzling hot braai where everything is fire roasted to perfection, slabs of beef are beautifully charred and served alongside South African inspired accompaniments in all their smoky glory. Yorkshire puddings are swapped for sweetcorn bread, roast potatoes substituted for fluffy fingerling potatoes in this stunning Sunday Roast mash up. Grilled carrots, broccoli and sweet fondant shallots complete the plate, with a smoked thyme jus replacing traditional gravy.
Pudding is equally delightful. The delectable, MelkTurt choux bun with candied kumqats and jasmine ice cream is the perfect round up to a Sunday Roast that you won’t be forgetting about any time soon Book here
The Coachmakers Arms
Situated in the heart of Marylebone, The Coachmakers Arms offers a luxurious space in their upstairs dining room to enjoy a Sunday lunch. Undoubtedly an elite strain of pub, the Coachmakers Arms Sunday lunch is as impressive as you’d imagine. The menu covers everything from devilled eggs with exmoor caviar, to breaded scallops and duck liver parfait as starters.
Lunch sees punters given a choice between elevated mains such as grilled monkfish tail with Shellfish sauce and salt baked celeriac with truffle aioli. But It’s the stellar Sunday Roast that makes it a destination for foodies. Go classic with the roasted angus beef rump with horseradish and creme fraiche or the roasted leg of lamb with fresh mint sauce. Accompanying your perfectly pink meat is a crunchy Yorkshire pudding, horseradish, crispy roasties, red cabbage, honey mustard carrots and parsnips, buttered greens and and winter squash and lashings of gravy. There’s also an “all in” option for the famished (or the indecisive) with the mixed roast which includes Pork, Lamb And Beef.
Make a full feast of it and stretch your stomach one final degree for the signature apple, plum and oat crumble served with piping hot vanilla custard
There are few things that are as quintessentially British as a dog friendly pub with a roaring fire and killer Sunday Roast. The Cadogan Arms is the Sunday snuggle fest that delivers all this and so much more. With Two-Michelin Star Chef, James Knappett purveying a modern menu of simply prepared seasonal dishes that confidently straddle comfort and class, it’s not hard to see why The Cadogan Arms continues to cement its 200 year reputation as a much loved Chelsea institution.
A formidable culinary harbour, The Cadogan Arms has an impressively curated gourmet Sunday roast menu that includes delectable dishes such as Longhorn Rump served with bone marrow sauce and horseradish cream, or the popular half Herb-Fed Chicken served with brioche and truffle stuffing.
All of this can be enjoyed in the opulent dining room perched on their comfy velvet seats surrounded by striking wall art and beautiful flower displays. Best of all, the food offering adapts as the months unfold and from October the pub menu continues to be a celebration of seasonal British fare with the popular roast leg of lamb served with crispy garlic and boulangère potatoes making an appearance. Each dish is served with butter glazed vegetables, roast potatoes, and Yorkshire puddings. For bigger groups, The Cadogan Arms Offers winsome Sunday Sharer Boards for a minimum of 3 people which includes a selection of their best roast meats with all the trimmings.
The dessert list is full of tempting choices including the hearty Rhubarb and Blood Orange Trifle, and Sticky toffee pudding but the show stopper is the Chocolate Tart served with shortbread, hazelnut and buttermilk ice cream.
If you like your Sunday lunch big and bold, and slightly left of center then Macellaio with its 6 london outposts serving their Italian inspired Sunday roast with all the trimmings is sure to impress. Visit the Store Street branch with its marvellous, slightly scuffed and unstudied charm that runs through the rustic industrial chic aesthetic, glossy tiles, corrugated steel features and walls that are warmly festooned with Fiat related paraphernalia.
The menu kicks off with a selection of Italian influences for starters. Go for the 24th month aged San Daniele charcuterie and Aoulian Buratta served with a bountiful basket of thick fluffy garlic bread coated with lashings of garlic infused olive oil. Be careful not to fill up too much on starters as you’ll need plenty of space for the main event.
The kitchen at Macellaio comes up trumps serving a big hearted, British Sunday roast that has been given the Piedmontese treatment . A hunk of Italian Fassone beef, aged to purplish splendour is served lightly charred on the outside and a juicy shade of pink on the inside. It’s topside of beef that is as rich in flavor and as sumptuously juicy as you could ever imagine it could be. The presence of all the traditional trimmings is what grounds it in the tradition of British Sunday Roast. Crispy little roast potatoes scented with garlic and rosemary, parsnips, roast carrots, savoy cabbage, brussel sprouts and lashings of gravy complete what is a plateful of deliciousness. The Yorkshire pudding is enormous and threatens to eat you before you eat it.
If after all that, sweet temptation beckons, you can sate your cravings with the superb basil infused panna cotta with meringue, its creamy rich and gloriously moreish. Or for something more traditional, finish your dinding experience with the dense and creamy homemade gelato.
Junsei is the hidden gem that every foodie needs to know about. They specialize in Yakitori, a style of Japanese cooking where meat is skewered and grilled over charcoal fire. All of this takes place in the lowly lit, intimate setting down a Marylebone back street that Junsei calls home.
For a memorable culinary adventure we opted for the Omakase menu – which literally translates to “I’ll leave it to you”. It’s a Japanese tradition where you hand control over to the chef, allowing him to delight and surprise us with a selection of dishes from across the menu. For this, you’re rewarded with a prime spot along the counter of the Yakitori bar, where; perched upon a stool, you’re rewarded with a birds eye view of the chefs as they prepare your dishes.
Nose to tail dining is the ethos underpinning the dining experience- there is a dish for absolutely EVERY part of the chicken on the menu. The experience is a journey through the myriad flavours and textures as each dish is designed to draw out the unique flavours of each part.
An amouse bouche of plump, skinless blanched cherry tomatoes with miso accompanied by seasonal pickles kicked things off and this was followed by 6 chicken skewers and a few surprise dishes. These included Momo, tender chicken thigh served with Tare sauce, Tebasaki, a charred crunchy crispy chicken wing, Sunagimo, chicken gizzard and shiso makei, juicy chicken breast with shiso leaf and plum sauce.
The most adventurous dish was Tsukune, a homemade succulent chicken meatball that is served with raw egg yolk in a tari sauce. It’s a playful interlude that encourages diners to mix the egg and tari sauce before dipping your chicken in it. If you can set squeamishness aside, it’s worth the payback in flavour.
Beautifully charred okra on skewers with Shoyu dressing were a triumph, and these were swiftly chased by a prettily fanned Hamachi, (yellow tail) tartare primed with spicy shiso dipping sauce and white ponzu. These dishes provided a brief entr’acte to proceedings before things were back on track with a very tasty rice bowl topped with chicken.
A bouncy, tart red grape and yuzu granita refreshed our palates
enough to justify having a pudding, not that we needed encouragement! To round things off, we shared the glorious Kuromutsu ice cream, a daring dish that combines grilled vegetables and ice cream, and shouldn’t work but it does.
The omakase menu, the Chef’s seasonal selection is £60pp, and the drinks pairing is £50pp.
With Tower Bridge in all its splendid neo-gothic majesty providing a backdrop and dramatic views of the skybank skyline adjacent, Coppa Club’s location makes for an undeniably spectacular spot for dinner.
With sunny rooftops in the summer now a very distant memory, winter themed terraces, pop ups and igloos are the perfect tonic for cooler winter evenings. It is ofcourse the nine riverside igloos with their “Hygge” inspired sensibilities that Coppa Club Tower bridge is best known for. The signature pods come with blankets, dangling winter blooms and rustic lamps, signaling that coziness, relaxation and warmth is the mode du jour.
The menu is best described as modern Italian with a selection that will delight meat and fish lovers. We kicked things off with seared juicy king prawns in a rich garlicky, chilli, lemon sauce served on warm rustic bread. We couldn’t get enough of our second starter, a show stopping milky Puglian burrata served with a sweet aubergine caponata sprinkled with pine nuts, basil and olive oil.
The mains were alo impressive. The 10oz Rib eye steak that we opted for is not for the faint hearted. It’s a generous portion of British grass-fed steak at its best, cooked to your preference and served with melt in your mouth porcini butter that has an earthy flavour, fresh watercress and pleasingly crunchy skinny fries. We also loved the grilled marinated chicken which comes with a choice of chimichurri, peppercorn or mushroom and tarragon sauce as an accompaniment. The chicken was succulent and cooked to perfection and also served with a generous portion of fries and a fresh side salad rocket and parmesan.
The pudding menu did not disappoint. After a lot of deliberation we opted for the flourless chocolate cake- a thick wedge of chocolatey heaven that came with a strong supporting cast of orange creme fraiche and caramelized almonds. We also fell in love with the silky creme brulee, its smooth custard perfectly finished off with a lip smacking gloriously caramelized sugar topping.
The cocktail menu offers an impressive selection of sophisticated sips. We adored the Ginger Nut, a perfect wintery concoction of bourbon, Saliza Amaretto, ginger and cinnamon.
Minimum spend of £25 per person applies for all reservations Monday to Sunday. Private igloo bookings are for two hours.
Phileas Fogg famously attempted to circumnavigate the world in 80 Days in Jules Verne’s literary classic. The Kensington Hotel has cleverly reimagined this challenge as an enchanting afternoon tea. The bold and ambitious east-meets- west culinary inspired journey starts in London, transports you to Paris, whizzes you to Rome and carries you to Cairo all within the charming drawing room of the stately 19th century building that it calls home.
The adventure begins as soon as you walk up to the grand, stucco-fronted townhouse, which is but a stone’s throw away from iconic Kensington delights like The V&A, Natural History and Science Museum and Kensington Gardens. You’ll swoon at the Victorian splendor as the warm and attentive staff usher you through the foyer and bar into the utterly delightful drawing room that expertly straddles old school grandeur and modern sensibilities. It’s an impeccable setting which feels utterly luxurious yet incredibly relaxed. The original artwork and clever use of vibrant colour creates a space that feels very individual yet welcoming.
A crisp, chilled glass of Perrier Jouet Grand Brut NV gets things going and the entree savories set the scene, with an audacious classic beef and gravy pie with puff pastry top signaling that this is afternoon tea but not as you’ve had it before. The Ta’meya with tahini aioli is an elevated take on falafel, all moorish deliciousness that will have you demolishing it in 2 bites and yearning for more. Parisian and Roman influence collide beautifully in the parmesan gourgier, a kind of savoury cousin to profiterole in both looks and texture, albeit filled with a marvelous tomato cream instead of chocolate..
The sandwiches are faultless. The lemon and chive cream cheese adds a liveliness to the smoked salmon sandwich. The cheese in the tricolore inspired sundried tomato, green pesto and mozzarella sandwich is springy perfection that will have you wanting to say mama mia. But the star of the show is the Cairo- an inventive creation that combines cumin hummus and caramelized onions.
The Chef doesn’t hold back with the patisserie selection. Banoffee pie never looked so boojie in the artistic dome shaped creation in which it’s presented, with a solid white chocolate quill for added flourish. You’ll delight in the oozy, rich, creamy tiramisu and if you prefer a less sugary option then the raspberry, rose and pistachio twirl is sure to please. The Paris opera montblanc is the sophisticated creation that is probably best described as the love child of cheesecake and millefeuille, a light and airy pudding with just the right amount of tartness.
The wide selection of teas from the handcrafted English breakfast to the interesting herbal infusions all help to wash down the impressive food selection. The scones that come last bring everything back to classic English tea and grounds the whole experience in a deeply satisfying way. What a journey it is, classic and impeccable but all with an irrepressible sense of fun, its afternoon tea at its absolute best.
The tea is priced at £58 per person, book here to make a a reservation
With the clocks going back and cold and crisp, winter evenings looming, the hunt for cosy comforting bars and restaurants begins. Cue the The Happenstance’s new Enchanted Forest Terrace winter pop-up – a hygge inspired all weather terrace- which is open now until January 2023- where comfort, good food and warmth are guaranteed.
A stone’s throw away from St Paul’s, the terrace is a magical winter wonderland – the perfect heated hideaway with warm cocktails, blanket and sheepskin rug covered chairs and an extensive seasonal menu of winter delights.
The terrace is decorated with foliage and hanging lanterns and with its striking and quirky interiors, it’s the perfect place to cosy into on a crisp winter’s evening. The cosy theme extends to the drinks menu: a collaboration with Tanqueray Gin means that, it’s absolutely essential you kick off with a glass of Apple Punch – a warming blend of gin with fresh apple juice, winter spices, sugar & lemon. The rest of the drinks list is just as impressive, if you’re a fan of Pina Colada, the Golden Pineapple which is a blend of Duppy Share Blanco rum, coconut cream, lime, cinnamon and pineapple is sure to please.
The menu is a crowd pleasing varied selection that plays beautifully to wintery style of eating. For starters we opted for the waiter recommended salt and pepper squid with lemon mayonnaise. The portion was generous and the squid was cooked beautifully. The wild mushroom arancini was also delicious with a tangy tomato ketchup inspired dip that cuts through the creaminess of the crunchy rice balls.
The main course menu is hearty and is mostly a meat lover’s paradise – bar the mushroom risotto, pumpkin and sage ravioli and green coconut curry. We went traditional and chose the sirloin steak with chips and watercress. It didn’t disappoint, it was a succulent, satisfying slab of prime beef and the chips that accompanied it were just right; with a slight crunch on the outside and piping hot softness on the inside.
The fish and chips was also hearty and indulgent, and stuck to the familiar beer batter, mushy peas and tartare sauce formula that make it such a well loved classic.
The setting is what draws you to The Happenstance but the food definitely holds its own. With the buzzy atmosphere and cosy setting it has all the components of hygge inspired evening of comfort, warmth and satisfying winter dining whether with friends or a cosy, romantic date.
Bookings are open now until Jan 2023. Reserve your table here.
It goes without saying that Sicilian cooking is well known and loved and Zoom East; renowned chef Vittorio Meli’s first London opening, is a little slice of Sicily where classic dishes have been rejuvenated and familiar staples given a unique twist.
Contemporary, vibrant and welcoming and with a dining orangery and courtyard covered in greenery, Zoom East is as pretty as they come as far as restaurants go. We were especially pleased to discover that the Sicilian charm extends to the attentive staff and stunning food.
Strong earthy flavours and locally sourced ingredients are what give the menu at Zoom East their character. Speak to your waiter about choosing a wine to complement the dishes and you’re in for a memorable dining experience.
Kick off your meal with a bowl of fatty bite size slices of the Lipare salame that’s been matured for 50 days and flavored with salt and pistachios. We recommend you order this along with the signature juicy Nocellera olives, smothered in a moorish dill, garlic and chilli marinade. Tear into the breadbasket of focaccia and grissini, and use it to mop up the juices from the olive oil, parsley, rosemary and chilli drenched artichoke confit.
From the small plates on the menu, we guarantee that the deeply cheesy bubbling hot aubergine parmigiana will disappear in seconds. Make up for this by ordering the saffron and blue cheese arancini that oozes with a nutty crunch. It would be remiss to ignore the quintessentially Sicilian sardine rolls stuffed with parmesan, orange raisins and pine nuts.
For your mains, save room for the “Guazetto Di Pesce”, a comforting seafood stew of Cornish hake, olives, potato, capers and pear which is a nod to the influence of North African dishes on Sicilian cuisine. The grilled octopus nestled on a creamy bed of preserved lemon sauce, monk’s beard and crispy chickpeas is also impossible to resist.
For pudding you’ll want to try the overly creamy panna cotta which is as buttery and wobbly as it should be. As for pistachio ice cream? Could well be the best you find outside of Sicily.
