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.
Finding Calm with an Enchanted Forest Winter Terrace
December is made for small rituals that bring a little calm to the busiest season of the year. From wellness advent calendars filled with soothing skincare to mindful treats and comforting fragrances, there are plenty of ways to make the countdown feel more restorative. Pairing these daily moments with the cosy atmosphere of an enchanted forest winter terrace captures that same sense of seasonal escapism, turning winter into an opportunity to slow down and enjoy simple pleasures.
Create a More Mindful Festive Season
Whether you are nurturing your mind, body and soul, exploring vegan snacks or searching for the perfect advent calendar, these thoughtful choices can make December feel a little more balanced. Wellness-focused treats encourage moments of relaxation between festive plans, while candles, teas and self-care favourites bring comfort into everyday routines. It is a refreshing alternative to the usual chocolate countdown and a lovely way to embrace a calmer, more considered approach to Christmas.
Bookings are open now until Jan 2023. Reserve your table here.
