After months of uncertainty and isolation, London has finally started to get its sparkle back as restaurants, theatre, indoor events and social activities make their return. From immersive art installations to bottomless brunches, outdoor theatre and rooftop dining, it doesn't get much better than summer in the city.
MORE: 30 best outdoor bars and restaurants to visit in London
DISCOVER: Best places in London to watch the Euros 2020: From rooftop bars to outdoor pubs
Read on to discover the very best things to do in London in June for every budget, tried and tested by HELLO!'s writers...
The best alternative things to do in London in June
See London from the sky at The O2 Climb
If you're a thrill seeker, adventure packed activities can be hard to find in a city – but not in London! If you're looking for unbeatable views across London and an unforgettable experience, why not hike up the outside of the O2?
During this unmissable O2 climb, you'll be strapped into a harness before climbing all the way to the roof. At the top dome, enjoy panoramic views from Canary Wharf to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, before the descent back down.
To book, visit tripadvisor.co.uk
The Garden Pavilion at Chiswick House and Gardens
Looking for a great dining experience in one of London's most stunning parks? We've found it for you - the Garden Pavilion at Chiswick House and Gardens is the perfect place.
The new pop-up restaurant, housed in a stylish and floral-adorned marquee in the grounds of the Grade I-listed 18th century villa, is currently open until September 2021. It offers a seasonally changing British menu, including produce from Chiswick House's newly re-opened Kitchen Garden.
Championing a farm to fork ethos and showcasing high quality, fresh and seasonal produce, the menu features modern re-interpretations of classic and well-loved dishes of yesteryear.
To accompany the dining menu, the expert sommelier from premium London catering company Food Show has crafted a delicious wine list which includes English sparkling wine.
To book visit foodshowltd.com
Cocktails in the City
Back for a series of summer parties – with three weekends, three themes, live entertainment, London’s top bars and more cocktails than ever before! Cocktails in the City will be returning to London once again ready to celebrate the reopening of London’s world-class bar scene. The popular drinks festival will be expanding its annual cocktail festival into a summerlong series, running one weekend per month throughout the summer, in London’s largest private Georgian Gardens ready to celebrate that ‘The Bars Are Back’!
To book for June, visit: cocktailsinthecity
Openaire Float-in Cinema returns this summer to London
UK’s 1st ever cinematic experience on water is back for its second year. As Londoners look to reclaim their summer, beloved luxury ice cream brand Häagen-Dazs has partnered with Openaire to craft those much needed moments of joy across a summer of cinema. Running over four weeks from Wednesday 2nd June 2021. Upon arrival, boat ticket holders will be shown aboard their eco-boat and have the ability to captain their ship on a 45-minute trip along the Regent's canal up to Little Venice before mooring at Merchant Square in front of the Openaire big screen. The line-up of films include cult classics, sing-along specials and nostalgic rom-coms!
To book, visit www.openaire.co.uk
Immerse yourself in Van Gogh Alive
If it's been a while since you last visited an exhibition, you'll be glad to hear that Van Gogh Alive has finally opened and is fully COVID-compliant. The immersive exhibition has dazzled over seven million people in 65 cities and from 4 June to 26 September, it's being housed in a huge purpose-built venue in the beautiful Kensington Gardens.
This isn't just any ordinary art exhibition. It's an immersive, multi-sensory experience that sees some of the Dutch artist's most recognised paintings projected onto screens while digital surround sound plays and the aromas of Provence fill the space. Highlights include the sunflower room (the perfect selfie opp!), Vincent's bedroom and the art activity area. Tickets are priced from £24 for adults and £14 for children.
To book, visit ticketmaster.co.uk
Take your lasminute.com London Eye experience to new heights
You may have taken a spin around one of London's most iconic attractions, but we can guarantee that you haven't seen it decked out like a pub. One of the lastminute.com London Eye's 32 pods has been transformed into a 'Pub Pod' with the help of Beefeater Gin, which means you can enjoy two drinks during your 30-minute whirl. Soak up the views of London while sipping on a refreshing G&T in your very own exclusive pub, which during COVID times is allowing a maximum of five guests at a time. Pre-booking is required for the fantastically fun experience.
To book tickets, visit londoneye.com/pubpod
Sip cocktails with a view of St Paul's
The Sabine is a brand new rooftop bar in the heart of St Paul’s which is a must-visit! With spectacular views, delicious food and contemporary cocktails, this rooftop bar really has everything you need to relax. As far as the cocktails go, we'd recommend the Whizz Fizz. With an outside terrace and a glass domed roof, Sabine Rooftop bar is the place to be no matter the weather!
To book, visit sabinelondon
Play a round of mini-golf
Puttshack – the first and only upscale tech-infused mini golf experience – reopens for fans to tee up, drink up, and ramp up the fun as lockdown eases. A one-of-a-kind experience like no other, fuses cutting edge technology with the wild, wonderful and very competitive world of miniature golf. Powered by the brand's patented Trackaball technology that keeps score for you as you play, so no need for pesky score cards which always get lost, magical sensors track every tap and flick of the ball, keeping score, assigning turns, and enabling next-level putting action.
To book, visit puttshack.com/uk
Play a futuristic bingo game at Hijingo
The future of bingo has just landed in London at Hijingo - a high energy, high tech gaming experience for the thrill-seeking socialite. Officially launching in London on 24 June, this alternative bingo experience will provide the ultimate show, accommodating 200 players within an 8,000 sq. ft space at 40 Worship Street, just five minutes from Liverpool Street Station.
A multi-sensory experience, Hijingo will combine live entertainment with stadium grade lighting, bespoke video, music and audio effects to create unparalleled drama for an audience of players. Keeping participants on the edge of their seats, groundbreaking sonic effects will run through 3D cinema speakers while breathtaking cinematic videos run on the mirrored LED screens. Not to mention out-of-this world food and drink offering will fuel players with street food dishes, reworked classic cocktails and local superstars, all with an Asian twist. From bao buns, dirty rice and crying tiger tears to classic burgers, players can expect generous plates of street food food favourites with banging flavours. Must-sips include the slushy hero drinks, craft beer and Tokyo-nights inspired own branded gin, Hi-Gin-Go.
To book, visit www.hijingo.com
Catch live music performed at Ronnie Scott's
Missed concerts during lockdown? Treat yourself to a night with the Queen of Gospel, Mica Paris MBE, who is performing at iconic venue Ronnie Scott's on Friday June 11. The sold-out show is being streamed live via DICE.FM for only £11.30 - bringing a taste of this iconic musician and London's finest live music venue to audiences globally. Mica will be debuting her new album, Gospel, alongside gospel and soul classics.
Ronnie Scott's livestream series sees a selection of the venue's unmissable shows streamed live at a pocket-friendly ticket price. The inaugural pay-per-view shows will feature high-calibre artists from all corners of the UK’s vibrant music scene – from jazz to soul, Afrobeat and rock and roll – introducing them to audiences both new and old.
Book now via DICE.FM
Take al fresco dining to new heights
London In The Sky returns for its longest season yet. The unique open-air restaurant experience that lifts diners 100ft above the ground will find home at London's iconic O2 arena from Thursday 1st July to Sunday 26th September. Promising a thrilling experience, breathtaking panoramic views of London and specially curated food and drinks menus, London In The Sky will be the capital’s hottest dining destination this summer.
For more information, visit londoninthesky.co.uk
Ride & Dine at Hilton Bankside
Hilton London Bankside is launching the ultimate ‘Ride & Dine’ experience, providing guests with an overnight stay, a decadent two course meal and the use of the hotel’s sustainable Volcanic bikes, so individuals can head off on an adventure and explore the capital - perfect for the sunshine! Individuals will be provided with sustainable bikes for two hours and can explore the capital themselves. The hotel will provide a bespoke map, which will guide guests to some of London’s key attractions, including the Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe theatre, foodie favourite, Borough Market, as well as some local hidden gems.
Before or after their ride, guests can enjoy a delicious two-course meal in the hotel’s vibrant, iconic destination bar The Distillery Bankside. Menu highlights include Roast Hake, Grilled Courgette & Saffron Risotto, Homemade Pappardelle with Tomato Vinaigrette & Pesto and Aberdeen Angus Beef Burger with Streaky Bacon, Cheddar, Garlic Mayonnaise & Fries.
Available from 1 June, Book here: hilton.com/en/hotels/lonsbhi-hilton-london-bankside/
Get inspired with more home cooking
New Major League Baseball food series called 'Home Plate' has just launched. The series sees Masterchef star Willy go up against special guests each week (including Sorted Food and TikTok sensation Poppy Cooks), to re-create the most exciting ball-park inspired food ahead of a live game. Why not give some of these tasty recipes a go yourself!
To find out more, head here
Let the Kids Take Charge at London Hilton Metropole
This family-friendly package allows children to unleash their inner explorer and take charge of planning the family’s great London adventure. On arrival, kids will check everyone in and then, using their very own planner, they will be guided by the hotels’ Kid Concierge team on the best child friendly sights and attractions to visit and the best food to be devoured.
The team will help future historians, scientists or zoologists plan their trip and discover all there is to know about their favourite subjects. The package includes an overnight stay, breakfast and an on-site chocolate treasure hunt. Little guests will be given a child-friendly map of the capital, a memory maker photo, along with a journal and crayons so memories of the trip can be kept forever.
To book, visit www.londonmet.hilton.com
The best luxury things to do in London in June
Bee Inspired By Hive's Honey Menu
Shopping may be exhausting, but if you're heading to Selfridges, Hive is the perfect pit-stop. The restaurant serves up French dishes and cocktails all using their incredible natural honey, made in part by their 100,000 resident bees (and yes, you can visit the hives!) - and the results are seriously creative. Dive into monkfish roasted with rosemary honey, creamy polenta with cheese and corn (this is our top pick!), cornfed roasted chicken with gratin of Savoyard potatoes, honey sauce & cherry vine tomatoes...and then make sure you leave room for their show-stopping signature dessert - a beehive-shaped pastry with chestnut honey, pear, ginger and bee pollen (FYI, that one makes an incredible video). Or, book yourself in for the cheese and honey afternoon tea - it will satisfy any sweet tooth!
Information: hiverestaurant.uk/
Indulge in the Summer Bliss package at The Landmark Hotel
For a real taste of luxury, indulge at London's Landmark Hotel and enjoy their newly launched Summer Bliss package - the perfect weekend retreat to escape for summer in the city.
Guests will stay in one of the hotel's classic five-star superior rooms before enjoying a lavish multi-course breakfast in the Landmark's stunning Winter Garden restaurant. From luscious fresh fruit to mini eggs Benedicts, fluffy American pancakes and mouth-watering maple bacon, guests will dine in style under the glass-roofed atrium filled with tropical palms.
If the white marble bathtub or the plush super-king bed isn't enough to tempt you, the package not only includes access to the hotel's award-winning spa, but also treats guests to the Landmark's Afternoon Tea, packaged in a beautiful picnic hamper so it can easily be taken to one of London’s picturesque parks or enjoyed in the room. A blissful experience not to be missed.
To book, visit www.landmarklondon.co.uk
Five Star Spa Day and Afternoon Tea at the Chilworth Hotel
After months of lockdown and restrictions, you deserve a relaxing retreat. Treat yourself to an indulgent five-star spa day at The Chilworth, complete with jacuzzi and steam room access, a 60-minute luxury treatment followed by a delicious afternoon tea – the perfect gift for a loved one.
To book, visit wowcher.co.uk
Dine at The Dorchester's stunning rooftop
Take your dining experience to new heights at The Dorchester's stunning rooftop restaurant, which only opened for the first time in April. The alfresco venue, which overlooks Hyde Park, boasts a gorgeous setting, mouthwatering menus and the friendliest of staff. Despite the grandeur of the five-star hotel, there's a comfortable and chilled vibe on the rooftop as live musicians and DJs entertain guests.
The menu changes every two weeks, with a new chef taking up residency in the restaurant, and from 14 to 30 June diners can tuck into Mexican chef Adriana Cavita's fare. With experience at top restaurants including El Bulli and Pujol, Adriana has created a menu that focuses on the traditional flavours of Mexico. Think carne a la brasas, pollo al carbon or Puerto Nuevo lobster, as well as citrus ceviche with sea bream and crab tostada, and the unmissable fresh variety of tacos from baja fish to suckling pig. Wash down your feast with Mexican-inspired cocktails and make sure you leave space for the traditional corn cake with dulce de leche or the array of ice creams and sorbets.
To book a table, visit dorchestercollection.com
Shop luxe jewellery at Mejuri's London pop up
Another day in London, another pop up to explore! Located on South Molton St for four days only, the exquisitely curated yet playful space is designed in natural tones, crafted in light wood with touches of gold - echoing the décor of Mejuri’s existing six stores across North America with custom modular mirrors, millwork and jewellery displays, all designed in-house. The pop-up offers a showroom experience, where visitors will be able to try on pieces, order in store and receive free expedited shopping stylists will be on-hand to help visitors try on and experiment with the delicate art of layering jewellery.
For the pop up, female-owned Farm Girl Café will create limited-edition golden croissants which can beenjoyed at the accompanying sculpturally curved tables and chairs sat upon abstract carpets. Dried spring floralsadding warmth and texture are deftly fashioned into a photo-framing arch outside the structure.
Visit the pop up from 10-13 June.
Get a post-lockdown makeover for your locks at HARI's Salon
The sun's out, lockdown is lifting and there's nothing better to make yourself feel like you again, than a hair makeover. Hari's hair salons - in Chelsea, Fulham and Notting Hill - have a post-lockdown treatment menu to do just that, and with extended opening hours of 8am-8pm, seven days a week, you're not going to struggle for an appointment.
It's always a treat having a hair do at Hari's - and despite now being fully Covid-safe with the inclusion of perspex separators between chairs, their salons feel no less luxurious. The treatment options include a Hair Hug (a reviving session including a cut, blow dry, treatment and gloss enhancer - £110), a Colour Clinic (to undo any home-hair dye disasters, just £120), and a Complete Care Package (get rid of split ends, restore hair and beautify nails for just £100). And the cherry on the top - it's 25% off for any NHS worker as a thank you. Bliss!
Treat yourself to a luxury piercing
Wellness and beauty lovers will be happy to know Urban Retreat is back for business! Situated in the heart of Knightsbridge, this little haven offers massages, hairstyling and other lifestyle services. But why not book a session with luxury piercer, Fran. Pricing starts from £80 and piercings are free, pay only for your jewellery.
To book, visit urbanretreat.co.uk
Pamper yourself in this salon on wheels
Book in with the very best at Gielly Green, Marylebone, for your big Summer hair transformation. They've just launched their new mobile vehicle in and around London - so one for those who enjoy the convenience of the salon coming directly to them! Whether you want to go for a colour change, big trim or looking for a beautiful bouncy blow dry for a day out with friends, the professionals will talk you through what you desire to ensure you leave the salon with the gorgeous hair you are after.
To book, visit giellygreen.co.uk
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Enjoy a Mexican Fiesta at Bluebird White City x Casamigos
If you're desperate for a taste of summer, but stumped by international travel restrictions – let the Bluebird bring you one step closer to a Mexican fiesta. With their newly launched Casamigos nights, Bluebird White City has been transformed into a scene straight out of paradise with its own pop-up Casamigos tequila bar and an oasis made up of palms, foliage and flowers. Guaranteed to transport visitors to the popular holiday destination known for its incredible food and drink.
Enjoy a delicious array of five-star Mexican cuisine and sip away from an expertly crafted cocktail menu. We're fans!
Visit London's iconic rooftop bar at Madison
Madison, where London meets Manhattan, is the place to go in June for supreme skyline views, premium cocktails and unbeatable Ibiza Beach style vibes. Their paradise ‘City Isles’ rooftop retreat has just launched in the City of London – and it's here to stay until 31 August.
The terrace, with unrivalled views of St Pauls, has been completely transformed into a beautiful boho retreat. Guests can sit back and relax on beautiful rattan daybeds, sofas and chairs under huge palm trees, planters and foliage which will cover the space to create a boho oasis in the sky.
In partnership with CÎROC, Madison will be serving up a selection of perfectly mixed luxury cocktails.
Visit Summer By The River, London Bridge
Summer By The River will be returning to London Bridge on 10 June, and visitors can expect a packed summer schedule of entertainment as well as al fresco drinking and dining destinations. The full entertainment schedule opens 21 June.
The schedule includes live sport screenings, outdoor cinema, live music from up-and-coming London acts in collaboration with BBC Introducing in London, salsa and swing social dances with Havana Londres and Swing Patrol, and family-friendly events and entertainment across the weekend.
Every event will be free to attend and open for walk-ins, so there’s no need to book in advance.
The best foodie things to do in London in June
Enjoy lunch at Pasta Evangelists in Harrods' fancy Dining Hall
Did you order freshly made pasta in the post during lockdown? Then chances are it was from Pasta Evangelists, who have been sending out their restaurant-quality pasta to UK homes since 2016. Fans of the business, which is backed by GBBO's Prue Leith, will be glad to hear that it has just opened its first bricks and mortar restaurant in a location that couldn't be fancier – the plush Dining Hall at Harrods.
With a cover of 20, the restaurant focuses its menu on incredibly sumptuous pasta dishes, from the all-time favourite beef ragu pappardelle to the more modern lasagna 'cupcake'. Veggies will love the classic cacio e pepe served with freshly shaved black truffle, while seafood lovers are spoilt for choice with the lobster or wild prawn options. You can really taste the difference with Pasta Evangelists' freshly cooked pasta and paired with a glass of Prosecco, it sure is a dining experience to remember. All seats are at the counter, which means you can watch the chefs at work while also taking in your lavish surroundings. The friendly and welcoming staff are just the cherry on the top.
To book a table, visit harrods.com/en-gb/restaurants/pasta-evangelists
Have the freshest sushi at TOKii
London may be brimming with Japanese restaurants, but one brilliantly chic place to stop for sushi is fusion restaurant TOKii, located in The Prince Akatoki hotel in Marylebone. The menu brings together the best of East and West, resulting in some of the most unique and exciting dishes that you wouldn't typically associate with Japanese cuisine. The lobster croquettes served piping hot on a yuzu and mango salsa is a standout dish, as is the succulent teriyaki glazed duck breast cooked medium rare to perfection. The selection of tasty skewers, including skin-fried salmon and chunky pork belly, is another must-order.
Of course though, the highlight of the menu is the sushi selection. Ranging from maki to nigiri to sashimi, there's a wealth of seafood to choose from and it's some of the freshest you'll try in the area. The best bet is to go for the chef's selection and tuck into delicious seafood from sea bass to scallops. Make sure to stop by the simply beautiful Malt Lounge and Bar for a pre or post-dinner cocktail. The intimate hotel bar is inspired by the cherry blossom season, and decorated with the most gorgeous and very Instagrammable floral canopy.
To book a table, visit tokii.co.uk
Lunch at COYA Mayfair
If you haven't got yourself down to COYA Mayfair yet, what are you waiting for? Not only does it have an insanely Instagram-friendly exterior with wreaths of vibrant flowers, but the interior is also just as summery and chic - and the exquisite Peruvian cuisine is second-to-none. Executive chef Sanjay Dwivedi has spent years perfecting the delicious dishes, and we would absolute recommend the exquisite Mistura de Ceviche, the beef tataki and the Atún Chifa. Enjoy!
To book, visit here
Dinner and drinks at Pergola Canary Wharf
You may have been to other Pergola venues in London, but their Canary Wharf branch could be our favourite yet. Situated in the skyline and flooded with very Instagrammable plants, enjoy some delicious cocktails and mouthwatering dishes - the Padron peppers were the biggest we have ever seen! Our other top pics? The Launceston lamb bites and Masala monkfish. But make sure you check out the daily specials too (and why not order extra?) as you'll want to stay for the whole evening - it's the perfect spot for after-work drinks!
Information: pergolacanarywharf.co.uk/eat-and-drink/
Dinner-Paired Wine Evening
We’ve all heard of wine-paired dinners, but have you ever heard of a dinner-paired wine tasting? FishWorks on Swallow Street will be hosting a series of new concept evenings to celebrate lesser talked about wine regions on 23rd June and 7th July, building a bespoke menu to complement the wines, rather than vice versa!
To book, visit here
Treat yourself to Indian fine dining
Hands down one of the best and most glorious places for Indian fine dining is Heritage Dulwich. If you're looking for somewhere fancy but not overpriced to celebrate a special occasion, or want to treat yourself as life gradually returns to normal, then a meal at this West Dulwich-based restaurant is well worth your time and money. Executive chef Dayashankar Sharma, who has worked in Michelin-starred Indian kitchens including Tamarind and Zaika over his 30-year career, takes the helm. Chef Sharma has created a menu to introduce modern Indian cuisine to his guests, while staying true to authentic and traditional forms of Indian cooking. He has sought out a range of dishes and flavours from the whole country. The result? Every dish we tried was parallel to perfection.
We can recommend the incredibly flavoursome lamb chops, which are marinated in raw papaya to give it that super tender texture, and the succulent shatkora jhinga, beautiful king prawns grilled in a clay oven. As for mains, the dhaba wala murgh, a chicken thigh curry coated in ground spices and Kashmiri chilli, can be deliciously mopped up with pilau rice and sooke aloo. There's a range of sides and breads on offer but the sundried tomato and truffle naan is an absolute must-try and an exciting change to traditional naans. Your taste buds and palette will thank you after a visit to this gem of a restaurant, where the staff are warm and friendly and as much care and thought goes into the food's presentation as its flavour.
Last but not least, the drinks menu cannot go unmentioned, in particular the cocktails. Inspired by the tastes of India, they're a creative twist on classic tipples, such as the Mewar colada and the Bhojpura cutting chai. Each one is playfully presented and wonderfully aromatic. The Gentleman and the Rajwara old fashioned even come with billows of smoked cinnamon.
To book a table, visit heritagedulwich.co.uk
Enjoy a workout while getting your cook on
OSU apple cider vinegar has launched the UK’s first workout class that fuses cooking and fitness! The CICC-ASS Workout - that’s a Completely Intensive Cooking Class - guarantees to get your heart rate up with rapid-fire supersets paired with active cooking of healthy drinks and breakfast dishes using OSU apple cider vinegar.
CICC-ASS crosses over the power of HIIT, the energy of spin and positive wellbeing habits of cooking in a high tempo 30-minute body blitz, allowing you to whisk, shake, mix and taste your way into the day.
Award-winning studio FLY LDN will be running the CICC-ASS program on Monday 7 and Monday 14 June at 10am. Classes are charged at £5 and available to book now via EventBrite.
Mull over elevated street food that is made for sharing
Notting Hill's newest offering, Los Mochis restaurant and bar, is the ultimate Pan-Pacific pairing, mixing Mexican spirit with Japanese elegance and Mexican flavours with Japanese techniques. These two culinary powerhouses meet here in truly inspirational style: the hands-on fun of classic MexiCali dishes is taken to a new level with the clean, fresh flavours of Asian ingredients treated with respect and integrity. You'll get to try the equally innovative and ground-breaking array of Ceviches, Tostadas, Tiraditos and, of course, Quesadillas.
To book a place, visit losmochis.co.uk
Visit this brand-new sushi restaurant
Hot Stone in Fitzrovia has opened - and it brings the refined sushi, sashimi and signature hot stone cookery loved by patrons of its first and critically-acclaimed restaurant in Islington to the heart of London. The must-try piece on the menu is Hot Stone's signature Ishiyaki, an ancient form of Japanese cookery using searing-hot stones crafted out of volcanic rock. Brought straight to the table, diners can sear premium cuts of Kobe and A5 Wagyu to taste, alongside succulent black tiger prawns and the freshest catch of the day.
To book, visit hotstonelondon.com
Devour some exceptional Japanese cuisine
SUMI in Notting Hill, the new neighbourhood restaurant by Michelin-awarded sushi master Endo Kazutoshi, has officially opened - and we LOVE it. Diners can choose from nigiri, sashimi or temaki style sushi, with highlights including Hotate, a temaki made with diced scallop and Hana Hojiso flowers; and Yasai, a vegetarian choice with pickled carrot and mooli radish, smoked and fermented mooli, chives and sesame and soy dressing. Other must-tries also include the Japanese A4 Wagyu striploin served with charred puntarella and a yuzu onion sauce; and white fish steak served with SUMI’s seaweed and ponzu sauce.
Make a reservation here, sushisumi.com
Enjoy the warm welcome of Thai mealtimes
With locations in and outside of London, why not visit your local Giggling Squid for some delcious Thai cuisine. Featuring bright new interiors and fabulous florals, with a nod to Thai ingredients from the sea and land displayed in the fresh and stylish setting, the revitalised Giggling Squid Clifton restaurant is a feast for the eyes as well as the tastebuds. Lucky visitors get to try the latest exciting dishes on the menu, packed full of bold flavours and Thailand's exciting and exotic ingredients, including the beautifully vibrant, Jicama Salad and customer favourite, Sticky Chicken.
To book, visit gigglingsquid.com
Get your Mediterranean fix at Pascor
From the Latin word meaning 'to feast, to devour, to enjoy oneself,' you can guarantee that a meal at Pascor will definitely tick all those boxes. The chic and relaxed Kensington-based restaurant, which just opened its doors last year amid the pandemic, serves up authentic Mediterranean cuisine. Read: bold and full flavours made with the freshest, seasonal ingredients. It has a perfect balance of light vegetarian and fish dishes and more hearty meat plates, all of which are cooked in the oven for that lovely grill flavour.
Definitely start with laffa (clay oven cooked bread), which goes beautifully with the meze dips like hummus and babaganoush. The grilled halloumi and the grilled aubergine drizzled with tahini, feta and walnuts are two must-order dishes, while the traditional lamb kofta dunked in mint basil yoghurt is a favourite for the carnivores. Galician octopus, short rib of beef and grilled whole sea bass are among the other mains. There really is such a variety of tasty dishes you'll have trouble choosing, but the best way is to dine family-style and share the plates.
To book a table, visit pascor.co.uk
A Sweet Treat For Your Picnic In The Park
Spending much of the past year in the comfort of our homes has led to a newfound desire to escape, but while overseas holidays remain on hold, there are still ways to satisfy your wanderlust and enjoy a taste of la dolce vita this summer. Transporting you to the sun-soaked Amalfi coast in just one spoonful, the cheesecake connoisseurs at Pleesecakes are joining forces with premium Italian gin, Malfy, on limited-edition, gin-infused cheesecakes - available for nationwide delivery from the 7th June. The exclusive Pleesecakes x Malfy bundle is ideal for picnics in the park!
Available to order via pleesecakes.com
Go on a London food tour
Calling all foodies – this experience is for you. With so many places to choose from, it's often difficult to ensure your culinary experience of London is the best it could possibly be. Get the inside scoop on London’s best eateries during a food tour that reveals the best spots to eat around London Bridge and Borough Market, and comes with personalised recommendations.
To book, visit tripadvisor.co.uk
Feast on some of the tastiest Indian fare at Pali Hill
If an Indian night is what you're after, then head to Fitzrovia-based Pali Hill, where you'll be sure to dine on quality food in absolute style. Head chef Avinash Shashidhara has been refining and creating new dishes in lockdown, making sure that when the chic restaurant opened its doors for indoor dining it would still reflect India's diverse culinary heritage. The best way to dine here is family style, sharing a mix of small and big plates and of course ordering a few showstoppers from the grill section.
You have to start with the Papadi Chat, a mix of sweet pomegranate, spiced yoghurt, chutney and sev (small crunchy noodles that are popular snacks in India). As for larger dishes, the Tandoori Monkfish and the Veal Shin are two absolute must-haves. Think tender, sauce-smothered meat that falls off the bone for the veal, which you'll want to mop up with a side of flaky flat bread. Trust us, the bread is not as understated as it sounds. The dal is another crowd-pleaser, as is the towering cone dosa which is sure to spark comments around the table. If you still have space for dessert, the Alphonso mango cheesecake is refreshingly light and just the right amount of sweet you'll want after your feast.
To book a table, visit palihill.co.uk
Cook up a wagamamas feast at home
Treat yourself to a delicious wagamamas meal – from the comfort of your own home. The popular restaurant chain has just launched an exciting new cook at home range with all their profits set to be donated to charity partner YoungMinds. The launch sees some of wagamama's most iconic flavours hit supermarket shelves for the first time ever including three meal kits (katsu curry, pad thai, chicken ramen), three stir fry sauces (teriyaki, firecracker and pad thai) and two curry pastes (katsu and raisukaree).
Each of these come with a simple, easy-to-follow recipe along with ‘hacks’ on how to personalise them to your own taste – yum! The meal kits, pastes and sauces are available at Waitrose and Morrisons, followed by Sainsbury's (from 16 June), Tesco’s (29 June) and Ocado (5 July).
Recreate Wimbledon at home with a Lanson picnic
While not all of us are lucky enough to be going to Wimbledon this year, you can recreate the vibe at home thanks to Champagne Lanson, the official Champagne of the Championships, who have just launched a limited-edition Lanson Wimbledon at Home picnic box. Swinging into the summer season, each picnic box is priced at £125.00 for two people, with highlights being Ritchie's of Rothesay hot smoked salmon with fresh sourdough crumpets, caviar butter and lamb's lettuce and coronation chicken, and sweet treats including strawberries topped with Estate Dairy double cream for dessert.
Complementing the food, the picnic box will also feature two champagne flutes and a bottle of Lanson Le Black Label Brut enclosed in a Wimbledon-inspired bottle jacket cooler.
Get yours now at lansonwimbledonathome.com
DISCOVER: Holiday panic setting in? 8 available UK getaways for a last-minute staycation
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