At this point, we're well and truly into Autumn- the stuffy heatwaves and al fresco aperols a distant memory. While you may be hesitant to bid farewell to summer, a 'cup-half-full' perspective is that autumn is the true season for foodies- and this week proves it. From fresh, delicate fish served in a former bank to one of the city's most exciting food collaborations yet, not to mention a new burger and wine pairing, there's no reason to go hungry in London this week.
Bleecker x Speedboat Bar
Two icons collide with the collaboration of Bleecker x Speedboat Bar. If you're in any way in tune with London's food scene, it's likely you've heard of both. Incase you need reminding, Speedboat is a Bangkok/Chinatown bar with bold flavours, vibrant interiors, and of course, Thai pop playing in the background. Bleecker, on the other hand, is the creation of Zan Kaufman, who once had a burger so good, it inspired her to leave her corporate law career in New York and move to London to recreate it. Both are major forces in London's culinary scene, and this Thursday they will be coming together at Seven Dials Market for one night only. If you already have plans, we'd recommend cancelling.
A 'Secret' Indian Opening in Putney
Psst... we're letting you in on a secret. Marked by a bright splash of blue on Lower Richmond Road is Putney's newest restaurant from Chef Patron Imran Mansuri (previously Michelin-starred Benares and Jamavar, Tamarind, Annabel’s, and Kolamba.) The name, Raaz, translates to secret in Hindi, the concept is modern Indian cooking with fine dining precision, served in a local setting. Raaz is centred around the flavours of Imran's childhood, and sharpened by years in London’s top kitchens. The menus move between the colour and crunch of street-style chaat and the smoke of the tandoor. Among the signatures is an overnight nihari rib, cooked until it falls from the bone and finished with marrow. Made with beef instead of lamb, this is an unorthodox choice in an Indian restaurant, authentic and ambitious, whilst not straying too far from the dishes diners love most. Speaking of which, alongside the signatures sit the classics we all know and love- the likes of chicken tikka masala, prawn Chettinad, and palak paneer. To wash it down, the cocktails carry as much weight as the food. A turmeric gin and tonic arrives bright gold, sharp and earthy. The Guava Rani mixes tequila infused in-house with chillies, guava and a rim dusted with spice. A Lychee Royale is floral and light, finished with sparkling rosé. We can't imagine this will stay "raaz" for long.
An Exquisite Japanese in a Former Bank
Just behind Oxford Circus, a former bank on Cavendish Square has had a £15 million refurbishment to open as Aki London on Friday. The main banking hall will house the restaurant, while downstairs will be home to a sleek and sultry cocktail bar, once the bank's vaults. Aki takes its name from akitsu, the Japanese word for dragonfly, and the concept is Japanese dining with the cultural resonance of an art club, with works from leading galleries and notable contemporary artists hung around the walls. The menu exudes Japanese luxury. From buttery Wagyu and fresh, delicate sashimi to crispy tempura and vibrant veggie dishes, every bite blends tradition with elegance- a menu crafted for its setting.
A Saturday Jazz Brunch in Marylebone
This Saturday, 108 Brasserie, within The Marylebone, is relaunching their monthly Jazz Brunch with a lineup that champions local, up & coming female musicians. This month's will welcome 21 year old Hertfordshire singer-songwriter, Bouj, to sing some smooth jazz whilst diners can help themselves to quite possibly one of London's most exquisite brunches. No meagre avocado toasts here. Expect bottomless appetisers, a Carlingford oyster shucking station, and plates large enough to be considered dinner. What's more, there's an all-you-can-eat dessert bar that would rival scenes from Sofia Coppola's Marie Antoinette (think bountiful servings of chocolate Guinness cake, tiramisu, lemon meringue and salted caramel banoffee pie with chantilly cream). And of course, champagne. Tickets are still available and there will be 25% off the final bill for the first of the series.
Kingly Court's Latest Addition
Kingly Court is adding to its catalogue of wonderful eateries. Chef Rob Roy Cameron will be the new neighbour of the likes of Asma Khan of Darjeeling Express and Florence Mae Maglanoc of Donia. ALTA is a live-fire restaurant inspired by the Navarra region of Northern Spain. The restaurant stretches over two floors with a private dining room and a heated outdoor terrace for al fresco diners braving the winter months. The menu is inspired by the Basque region, but is made with British produce. Expect Homemade txistorra, sardine empanadas, cornish mussels and of course, the La Viña cheesecake, one which pays homage to the bar in San Sebastián famed for creating the Basque cheesecake. With some low-intervention wine to wash it all down, it sounds like the perfect evening to us.
Michelin-Standard Burgers Come To Carnaby
Chef Jordan Bailey is expanding his burger empire. You may be familiar with Heard in Borough, also known as 'The Michelin Burger'. The burgers themselves have not won a star (just yet), however Chef Jordan Bailey has two under his belt from his former restaurant, Aimsir. His fine dining experience means he has managed to successfully turn an everyday comfort food into something quite exceptional. And now, thanks to the success of the Borough's branch, a sister restaurant will open in Foubert's Place, Carnaby on Thursday. This restaurant has an expanded offering including the Soho burger, the only one of its kind on the menu which hasn't been 'smashed'. The burgers are served in luxurious, butter-toasted, roast potato buns, and are to be paired with a beer or one of the selected wines from his wife, the esteemed sommelier Majken Bech-Bailey.
A New Restaurant at the Royal Opera House
Cicoria and Bar Cicoria, Angela Hartnett’s first new London restaurant in over 12 years, will open this Friday, on the fifth floor of the Royal Opera House no less. With sweeping views over Covent Garden, the restaurant has a warm, refined setting that is bespoke in all details. The menu is centred around Angela’s signature seasonal Italian cooking- simple, ingredient-driven dishes elevated with expert technique and dishes inspired by her childhood and travels in Italy. The menu is designed for convivial dining, with cicchetti and antipasti to share, hearty primi and secondi, and a final flourish of dolci. Angela Hartnett said, “I’m so proud of every single person who’s made this happen. Watching it all come together with the chefs, the building team, operations, and of course, everyone at the Royal Opera House has been very special. We’re looking forward to welcoming new guests and familiar faces through the doors of this remarkable building.” At the heart of Cicoria is Angela’s signature seasonal Italian cooking: simple, ingredient-driven dishes elevated with expert technique. The menu is designed for convivial dining, with cicchetti and antipasti to share, hearty primi and secondi, and a final flourish of dolci. For an aperitif or a night cap, Bar Cicoria, a Turin-inspired terrace bar overlooking the piazza, will be open daily to extend the Cicoria experience with a menu of Italian-inspired cocktails, sparkling wines, and aperitivi in an intimate space.
