In a city like London, there's always something happening. From new openings and trendy pop-ups to a queue of rumbling stomachs, eager to see whether the viral pastry is worth the hype. In fact, the sheer quantity of things to do in London can often lead us to missing out. We've all been there- eagerly sharing the event that catches our eye with our friends... only to find out it happened last weekend. Fear not, here at Food Network we've taken the liberty of scouring the streets of London to find out what's happening, and whether it's worth your valuable time in the city. Prepare to never miss a free food tasting again. Here's what to do and eat in London this week (11th August).
Luto London at The Pilgrim Hotel
This week marks the final days to catch the end of Luto London's three-month residency at The Pilgrim Hotel. Luto, meaning 'to cook' in Tagalog, is a filipino-inspired pop up, founded by Head Chef Mary San Pablo. San Pablo is a London born Filipina, well seasoned eater and professional chef who has previously trained at some of London's front-running restaurants like Quo Vadis and Som Saa. The Pilgrim has been the host of Luto’s longest residency yet, where you can try Mary’s bold, seasonal cooking out for yourself in the heart of West London. The menu that pairs British produce with vibrant Filipino flavours with some standout dishes such as blackened pork belly with brown butter and roasted pineapple and a rhubarb-cheong syrup-infused tamarind granita paired with Kentish strawberries and a drizzle of coconut cream. Last service is this Thursday the 14th!
The Pot Luck Club at The Waldorf
On Wednesday the 13th, The Waldorf Hotel welcomes The Pot Luck Club to London, sharing a South-African dining experience without a hefty 12 hour flight. Hailed as one of Cape Town’s must restaurants, The Pot Luck Club was added to the World’s 50 Best Restaurants Discovery List in 2019. Now, British-born chef Luke Dale Roberts’ and his team will travel across the world to oversee the launch in London, and from there Sous Chef Rachel Maroun will then lead a three-month residency. You’ll find it taking up residency at one of the longest-standing hotels in Aldwych, The Waldorf Hilton, where its restaurant and The Wild Monkey Bar will come together to host The Pot Luck Club for the duration of the residency. Expect globally-inspired small plates, such a Smoked beef fillet with truffle café au lait, and for the first time, there’ll be a bar snacks menu at The Wild Monkey Bar, curated by chef Luke to complement the cocktails.
This Sunday, a festival is taking place in Barking to celebrate one of Africa's beloved dishes- jollof! Vendors from different West African countries will battle to win the title of "Jollof Rice Champion." Attendees will sample the varieties and vote for their favourites, all while discovering various regional takes on the fragrant, fiery dish. Plus, this is more than just a food festival. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of West African culture with live music, dance performances, art, and family-friendly activities. Tickets start at £17.
Prosecco Tastings for National Prosecco Day
Waitrose King's Cross are hosting a one-off ticketed Prosecco DOC Masterclass with Neil Phillips, UK Ambassador for Prosecco DOC (also known as The Wine Tipster). Be guided through a generous tasting of three Prosecco DOC wines from leading wine makers La Gioiosa, Canti and San Leo, with pairings of cheese to complement the bubbles. Tickets cost £15.00 and are exclusive to My Waitrose members, which is easy to join!
Shōtengai Market at Kings Cross
This month, from Thursday 14 August to Sunday 17 August, Lower Stable Street in Kings Cross will transform into a Shōtengai Market, welcoming a mix of stalls featuring pan-Asian homeware and food. Shōtengai are local street markets found in cities across Japan, and this market will embody the atmosphere of authentic Shōtengai, with a wide range of products and a focus on small businesses and independent retailers! The market has seen some of the best London-based pan-Asian traders joining the street, such as Japanese bread from Rise Bakery Bar, cakes by Shima, Okonomiyaki (Japanese pancake) from Okan London. Did we mention it's completely free? This is one to add into your calendar!
