The summer may be *officially* over, but that doesn't mean the good vibes have to end. If you're looking for things to do in London this September that keep the city alive, our HELLO! writers have sourced the very best events, restaurants, bars, family days out and even five-star stays so that you can keep your social calendar full this month.
SEE: 3 unmissable day trips from London to visit by train
DISCOVER: 33 UK hotels you need to visit for a summer weekend getaway
Whether you're into fine dining with a view of London's skyline, or visiting the UK's first silent disco in a museum is more up your street - we have got you covered.
Read on to discover the very best things to do in London for every budget, tried and tested by HELLO!'s writers…
Best alternative activities to do in London in September
Get tickets to experience the magical world of Lapland
From midday on 27 September, the final 2021 booking window will open for LaplandUK, a magical world where families revel in their children’s fleeting belief in Father Christmas and the awe and wonder of childhood itself. An unmissable event this festive season, The Lapland experience is a reimagination of the Father Christmas myth and based upon two original stories written by the founders, Mike & Alison Battle - The Untold Story of Father Christmas and The Secrets of the Christmas Elves. The experience is an immersive and authentic representation of Father Christmas’ Arctic homeland right here in the UK. A secret, magical world of wonder for families to create life memories together. Don't miss your chance to experience the magic this Christmas!
The Lapland adventure begins when the Small Folk receive a personalised wax-sealed invitation in the post from Father Christmas, asking them to journey to Lapland to help the Elves with their toymaking!
To book, visit tickets.laplanduk.co.uk/booking-portal
Bring your four-legged friend to a Day of the Dachshund party
Now this is a real treat for the dog-lovers amongst us. Pergola Paddington is hosting a Day of the Dachshund party on Sunday 26 September in honour of Oktoberfest. Around 100 German sausage dogs are expected to rock up at the event, which kicks off at 12 noon with delicious Bavarian food and German beers - naturally, served in two-pint big steins. Furry friends won't go hungry either as a selection of doggy beer and bones will be supplied. Plus, keep an eye out for the best-dressed competition with the award going to the best-dressed dog and their owner.
Alternatively, if you can't make it down at the weekend, Pergola Paddington is open seven days a week and is currently celebrating Oktoberfest with a six-week pop-up. Special Bavarian food, beer and cocktails feature on the regular food stalls' menus, from bratwurst baguettes to potato dumplings. There's even a katsu currywurst bao from Japanese stall Yuki. If you're looking for a rowdy atmosphere, banging food and beer and an Instagrammable venue, Pergola Paddington is the place to be for Oktoberfest 2021.
To book a table, visit pergolapaddington.com
Have a Spectacular, Spectacular! evening at this Moulin Rouge immersive experience
Haven't you heard? London theatre is finally back! After the success of their first immersive experience, M Victoria are thrilled to bring you a bohemian evening in London with Moulin Rouge. Get ready to be transported to Paris as you watch entertainers, performers and creatures of the night from the Montmartre Quarter rehearse their upcoming ”Spectacular Spectacular” show. Look forward to an evening of the finest food and drink with a theatrical four course menu, live music and entertainment including singing and dancing.
Guests are encouraged to dress for the occasion in the expressive, outlandish style of the Moulin Rouge for an unforgettable evening.
To book tickets, visit mrestaurants.co.uk
Show off your batting skills at Sixes Cricket Club
Whether you're a pro cricket player or a rookie with a bat, Sixes Cricket Club is the perfect place to hone your skills over a delicious cocktail and tasty sharing menu. Combining cutting edge elite sports technology with the finest English gastro pub food and drink in a relaxed and shareable format, the Sixes experience is wildly infectious to both the cricket professional, complete novice and sport loving kid.
We loved getting stuck in during our time in the nets, where a large screen sees you virtual bowler throwing you a curve ball. Tuck into the hilariously fun cocktails (there's even a tea-flavoured one) and enjoy an afternoon of sporty socialising.
To book your nets, visit www.sixescricket.com
Play bingo while you brunch
This is bingo, but not like you know it. Hijingo in Shoreditch specialises in delivering a multi-sensory bingo experience - the future of bingo, if you like. Expect high energy, unforgettable moments and even a hint of danger while you play in the 8,000 square foot venue, which can seat 200 people and boasts a podium-like stage for the winners to pose on. On Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 September, Hijingo is celebrating the queens of pop with a themed brunch. Britney Spears, Ariana Grande, Beyonce, Rihanna and Dua Lipa will be blasting from the speakers while players tuck into Asian-inspired brunch dishes, some of which have been playfully renamed in honour of the pop queens. Prizes on the day include an LED jacket, pop-themed drinks, cash and even a European holiday!
To book tickets, visit hijingo.com
Stuck for weekend plans? Poke House is opening its first UK restaurant in London's Notting Hill - bringing Californian soul and Hawaiin taste to the capital. To celebrate their opening, Poke House is offering visitors a free tattoo from some of the nation’s most famous tattoo artists when they get their first Poke House poke bowl, which will also be free on Saturday 18 September.
Not only that, if they commit to getting a tattoo of the Poke House logo, they’ll receive free poke for life.
Visitors of Poke House are transported to California for an endless Summer courtesy of a multisensory experience - filled with Cali-House music, San Diego art, cacti, neon lights and fresh, healthy, vibrant food – so what better way to continue repping the Cali-lifestyle than having it tattooed by one London's best tattoo artists?
Attend a star-studded charity concert
Tom Parker from The Wanted is hosting a star-studded charity concert at the Royal Albert Hall on Monday 20 September in aid of Stand Up To Cancer and the National Brain Appeal. A year on from his brain tumour diagnosis, the singer has called on his famous friends to help pull together a show-stopping event. Hosted by Roman Kemp and Sonny Jay, the show will feature live music from Liam Payne, KSI, Sigrid, McFly, Becky Hill and Ed Sheeran, as well as The Wanted's first live performance following their seven-year hiatus.
Get your tickets at royalalberthall.com
Grab an ice cream with your favourite film
The Openaire Float-in Cinema by Häagen-Dazs has floated in for its second season of the summer, this month at Merchant Square. What better way to see off the summer than with a boat ride down Regent’s Canal before mooring up to a cult classic screening? Beloved luxury ice cream brand Häagen-Dazs has partnered with Openaire to help craft a magical cinematic experience where attendees can enjoy scenic views of London and of course plenty of ice cream! Book a boat and fill it with friends or choose a deckchair for a sunset film - it's a perfect date spot!
Screenings and booking: openaire.co.uk
Take the family to ZSL London Zoo's Tour and Tea experience
ZSL London Zoo is launching Tour and Tea from 2 November, a brand new series of guided tours followed by afternoon tea at the world-famous zoo in Regents Park. Featuring a different theme each month, Tour and Tea guests will get the chance to explore in a private group and learn more about the behind-the-scenes of the conservation zoo. From uncovering its fascinating history, delving into its global conservation efforts or exploring its extensive horticulture, there’s a tour for all tastes.
Designed with the Zoo’s grown-up audiences in mind, the Tours have been created to allow guests to enjoy the gardens at a leisurely pace, while seeing a unique side to London’s Zoo and learning more about the conservation charity, ZSL and the animals they strive to preserve and protect.
Tickets are available to book today at zsl.org/toursteas
Celebrate London Pride on Southern Comfort's Boat Party
London's iconic Pride Parade may have been cancelled, but Southern Comfort is bringing the spirit of New Orleans to London with its upcoming Southern Comfort Pride Boat Party on Saturday 11 September.
Get your friends together and prepare to Vogue on a vintage Mississippi paddle steamer boat along the Thames. Journey through the capital while dancing away to DJ sets from Melanie Blatt, Mark-Ashley Dupé and Raven Mandella. There will also be performances from London's finest Voguing crews and Drag Queens from Sink The Pink – the LGTBQ+ collective known for continuously challenging the status quo around nightlife and celebrating freedom of self-expression.
Fuelling the fun will be an irresistible array of food and drink, including Southern Comfort’s original slushies and an authentic New Orleans-inspired brunch style menu featuring fried chicken, mac & cheese and vegan gumbo.
To get your tickets, visit feverup.com
Get competitive at Electric Shuffle
If you're looking for an alternative night out, you'll love Electric Shuffle. Tucked away on Bermondsey Street, this lively new haunt is home to ten shuffleboards reimagined with interactive screens and pumping music, all set within a vibey basement bar. The perfect place to socialise with your competitive friends, Electric Shuffle boasts an impressive menu of craft beers, bubbles, classic spirits and an imaginative cocktail menu - including their showstopping 'trophy of glory' served in a giant trophy cup.
Ideal for after-work drinks, group socials and kicking off the weekend early, you'll love tucking into their eclectic menu of sharing plates and pizzas whilst battling it out on the shuffleboards. We did!
To book, visit electricshuffle.com
Sashay Away at Drag Up at the O2
Calling all thrill-seekers, you can now climb the O2 in style at an exciting new event series, Drag Up at The O2. This September, pop culture queen Herr will be performing 52 metres above the ground, on the roof of The O2 arena. Each ticket includes an outdoor climb followed by an iconic drag performance – an unmissable event this autumn.
The events will take place at 7pm and 7.30pm on Thursday 2nd, 9th, 16th and 23rd September with tickets priced at £40 per person.
To book, visit tickets.aegeurope.com/upattheo2/drag
Silent Disco at the Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum’s world-famous silent disco events are set to relaunch at the Museum this month. For an unforgettable music experience, the events see three DJs do battle over separate wireless channels, playing the best in pop, rock and party classics beneath Hope the breath-taking blue whale skeleton in Hintze Hall.
Guests will enjoy a unique silent disco experience in an iconic venue, a full bar serving a range of drinks available to purchase and three DJs playing simultaneously allowing visitors to curate the soundtrack to their night.
Silent Discos will take place on 17 September, 1 October and 5 November and cost £25 per person.
To book, visit nhm.ac.uk/events/silent-disco
Get tipsy with the Bard himself at S*** Faced Shakespeare
Whether you’re a die-hard Shakespeare fan or not, all will enjoy this charming and hilarious theatre show where the cast attempt to act out a play from the Bard… only for one of the main stars to be given more and more alcohol as the show goes on, resulting in hilarity as the other actors and audience members alike have to react to their slurring capers. The show is currently enjoying a tipsy Macbeth, but Romeo and Juliet is just around the corner, kicking off on 11 September.
For tickets, visit boundandgaggedcomedy.com
Enjoy live music with epic rooftop views of London
Madison rooftop bar and restaurant, which boasts stunning views of St Paul's Cathedral and the London skyline, has two very special live music nights to make a note of in your diary this September. On Tuesday 7th and Tuesday 21st, the New York-style venue will see performances by Kyra and Zoe Kypri, respectively, as part of their Unplugged programme, which celebrates emerging talent and accomplished music artists. Diners will be able to sit back, sip on cocktails and enjoy the live music, while also tucking into a two-course or three-course set menu. Dishes include stone bass and shrimp ceviche, lobster linguine and a 52oz Tomahawk steak, while the drinks line-up is equally as strong, with a selection of classic cocktails and specials created in collaboration with Cîroc, including St Paul's Sunset and Champagne Colada. All bookings will have a £10 entertainment charge per person.
To book a table, visit madisonlondon.net
Drink cocktails at this dog-friendly rooftop
Skylight Rooftop at Tobacco Dock will be welcoming punters and pups all day on 5 September to raise money for Dogs On The Streets (DOTS). Why not treat your furry friend to a day out at one of London's favourite rooftops? Skylight is known for its panoramic and uninterrupted views across London's skyline and is one of the city's best venues for soaking up the sunshine - perfect for sunset sundowners with your pooch.
MORE: 11 dog-friendly places in London to dine with your furry friend
Say bonjour to the 'Bed & Boursin' experience
Summer may be coming to a close but as Boursin, the nation's favourite indulgent French cheese, unveils the ultimate gourmet getaway, there's still time to indulge. Just a short drive from London, the Suffolk hideaway offers a once in a bite time experience, embellished with decadent green and gold Boursin touches and an array of sensory surprises to ensure guests have the ultimate indulgent staycation. Launching on the 6 September, the nationwide competition to win a stay at the Bed & Boursin will invite entrants to share a creative dish with a Boursin twist to their Instagram, tagging @BoursinUK and using the hashtag #BedandBoursin, for their chance to win. For those not lucky enough to win a stay at Bed & Boursin you can book your own getaway at Bailiff's House at bighouseexperience.com.
For more information, visit boursin.co.uk
Disco is back!
NYX Hotel London Holborn is fast becoming one of the capital’s hottest spots thanks to its everchanging roster of exciting events. On Friday 24th September, everyone’s favourite disc spinner, DJ Fat Tony is set to grace the decks, providing an unforgettable night of dance and disco that is not to be missed. An icon of the times and a legend of London’s party scene, DJ Fat Tony will be joined by a special guest DJ, as well as an entourage of dazzling dancers to ignite the night and get the party into full swing.
To book, visit here
Best food and drink spots to check out in London in September
Dine like Bond
Created by Jake Burger (who is the mastermind behind the renowned Ginstitute experience and a die-hard Bond fan), this evening is for all James Bond fans! Enjoy an immersive adventure through the insane excesses of Bond's life and his predilection for Martinis, Champagne, Bourbon and many of the other finer things in life, all accompanied by a delicious selection of some of Bond's favourite dishes and with plenty of surprises along the way.
Book your tickets here, the-distillery.london
Have the wildest brunch at COYA Angel Court
You may have been to COYA, the modern Peruvian fusion restaurant with branches in Mayfair and the City, but if you haven't been to their brand new Warrior Brunch, you haven't had the full experience. With an exquisite three-course set menu, half a bottle of Veuve Clicquot each, upbeat tribal beats and one wild performance after another, it's guaranteed to be a meal you won't forget. The £80pp brunch at Angel Court kicks off at 12:30pm every Saturday and includes a plethora of fantastic sharing plates.
COYA's vision for their menu is abundance and indulgence and they sure do deliver. You'll start with silky smooth guacamole, corn tortillas and shrimp crackers, followed by sea bass croquettes, salmon tostadas and chicken skewers to name a few. Next up it's the ceviche counter, which really is the dream serving for seafood lovers. Tuna ceviche, kingfish ceviche, and even carrot and corn ceviche – there really is so much to choose from. As for the mains, you're asked to choose from one dish, with the Chilean seabass being the best-seller. Another must-try is the sirloin beef, served with an innovative star anise puree and garnished with crispy shallots. But don't think the food stops there. The show-stopping dessert comes in the form of exotic fresh fruit, cakes and tarts, all beautifully presented on a giant platter of popcorn. Creative and one-of-a-kind? Yes.
The food is served gradually over three hours, and unlike other weekend brunches with entertainment where you end up shouting at each other to have a conversation, COYA have nailed it by leaving the raucous entertainment for the last course when everyone's ready to have a little dance. Saxophonists, drummers and dancers are just some of the animators you can expect to sashay around the tables, encouraging diners to get up and form a conga line. The fourth and final hour of the brunch sitting is moved into the bar area, for more dancing and banging tunes. So what are you waiting for? Unleash your inner warrior and experience the wildest brunch in London.
To book a table, visit coyarestaurant.com
Splurge on back-at-the-office drinks
Luxury Russian Vodka Beluga is excited to announce its Martini Matchmaker serves across some of London's most exclusive bars. Designed to help those find their ideal martini, cocktail lovers will be invited to discover different interpretations of the iconic drink. The drinks have been expertly paired with a sweet or savoury snack, for a one-of-a-kind martini experience. Each interpretation matches a specific mood, highlighting the creativity of the venue and the versatility of the vodka.
The series will take place at the following bars: The Coburg Bar at The Connaught, The Bar at The Dorchester, Eve Bar by Adam Handling and 10°Sky Bar at Galvin at Windows.
Find out more here, vodka-beluga.com/en
Enjoy a gastropub lunch at The Windmill
Regulars to Clapham Common will know of pub and hotel, The Windmill, located in the middle of the green and a firm favourite with locals for years. But the Young's pub has recently undergone a swanky refurbishment and it's never looked better. Now confidently calling itself a gastropub, it serves delicious, seasonal British cuisine, with a highlight being the Sunday roast and legendary steaks from nearby butcher The Ginger Pig.
On the all-day menu are pub classics, including all-time favourites like fish and chips, and chicken, ham and leek pie. But there are also fancier dishes like the pan-seared sea bass drizzled with romesco sauce, which is sure to satisfy any fish-lover. Desserts are best shared as they are truly generous in size; the towering Eton mess is stacked inches high while the vegan chocolate brownie with cherry compote is incredibly rich. If you're looking for a relaxed yet elegant place to dine on the common, The Windmill – with its sun-drenched conservatory dining room and vibrant décor – ticks all the boxes. There's also a more relaxed area for drinks only, plus a heated and covered garden for the colder months.
To book a table visit windmillclapham.co.uk
Sip on sundowners at Vinegar Yard's gorgeous Passoa rooftop
The summer isn't over just yet! Head over to London Bridge's Vinegar Yard and soak up the last of the September sun at their gorgeous Passoa rooftop. If you're a fan of a pornstar martini (and seriously, who isn't?) you'll love their delicious list of passion fruit cocktail twists. From a classic pornstar martini to a tangy Passoa spritz, frozen passion fruit margaritas and zingy sangria pitchers, travel restrictions will soon be forgotten as you're transported to this tropical paradise.
Alongside drinks, guests can experience all that Vinegar Yard has to offer with street food stalls, arts and crafts and more.
To book, visit www.vinegaryard.london
Imagine you're at après-ski at this new Apline restaurant
Who said you couldn't enjoy après-ski in the city? Bringing a sense of Alpine heartiness and generosity to the all-day dining experience in the ground floor café, highlights from the menu include sharing plates of Mountain Fondue served with sourdough, new potatoes & pickles and Tartiflette with reblochon, bacon and potato. Haugen promises to be a must-go restaurant for cheese-lovers! Elsewhere on the menu, guests will be able to tuck into Raclette, Vienna Schnitzel with warm potato salad & lingonberries, Chickpea and Lentil Burger in a Brezel bun or Haugen’s Caesar Salad with white anchovies. To finish, desserts will include Haugen’s signature Chocolate Fondue, with marshmallow, fresh strawberries, and honeycomb for dipping, alongside Apple Strudel, Sacher Torte and a decadent ‘Schwarzwälder’ cherry vinegar sorbet with Kirsch cream & chocolate mousse, topped with chocolate crunch, cherry gel and an almond cinnamon tuile.
Upstairs, the rooftop bar is inspired by the après ski atmosphere of bars in the Alps, with bespoke cocktails, glühwein, Schnapps, craft beers and light bites.
To make a reservation, visit www.haugen-restaurant.com
Indulge in a delicious new menu at Trade
An award-winning independent group of coffee shops and eateries has just unveiled its first dinner and cocktail menu at their Essex Road site, combining great food with accessible prices, to make socialising a relaxed, enjoyable and affordable experience.
From Smoked Celeriac with Wild Garlic Capers and Oat Beurre Blanc to indulgent Cherry & Custard sandos, be sure to hit up this new venue for your next date night.
Elevate your drinking experience at aspen & meursault
Wine bars may be aplenty in London but aspen & meursault, which threw open its doors in Battersea just three weeks ago, is already looking like a neighbourhood hotspot and set to be a favourite drinking den south of the river. Like its sister site Diogenes The Dog in Elephant and Castle, the venue is all about natural wine. Those who might turn their nose up at natural wine should reconsider and pay a visit to this intimate establishment, which serves a range of excellent quality, low-intervention classics from chiantis to riojas, as well as off-the-beaten-track tipples from the Baltics, which you probably haven't tried yet. Tickle your tastebuds with their range of innovative wines, while being guided by founder Sunny Hodge and his team of vino aficionados, who will be happy to make suggestions based on your preferences. Most wine is available by the glass, so why not go on a journey and debunk the myth that natural wine is cloudy, funky or gritty, and discover just how clean and refreshing it can be?
The next best thing about the venue is the food. By day, aspen & meursault is a café and deli, serving coffee and pastries and selling delicious produce like virgin olive oil, boozy cheeses and charcuterie meats. By night, the menu opens up to sharing platters and snacks. Must-orders include the devils mortar on focaccia – a London version of nduja mixed with red pesto and wildflower honey, spread on focaccia. The charcuterie platter features some real delights, notably the Belgian ribeye and the Hoghton pork loin with rosemary, while the baked bio camembert is always a crowd-pleaser. The fresh burrata salad and the smoked and grilled scamorza – a gooey cheese from Puglia – are also not to be missed.
When HELLO! visited, the outdoor terrace was teaming with locals and diners and it's a pleasant spot to enjoy a few tipples. It was promising to see just how busy the venue was given its recent opening. We can only imagine it'll soar in popularity once the cold weather kicks in and Londoners will be cosying up indoors in the atmospheric wine bar. There's also a snug area and courtyard available for private hire for up to 15 people.
To book a table visit baraspen.co.uk
Feast on mouthwatering meze platters at Chameleon
There was much buzz around the opening of Chameleon earlier this spring – and rightly so. The alfresco Israeli restaurant sits at One Marylebone and has transformed the venue's outdoor area into a beautiful city oasis. Weather permitting, visitors can dine among the foliage where there are outdoor heaters aplenty in 'God's Garden', or cosy under the large, fairy-lit teepees. For an even more intimate setting, there are nine individual greenhouses that can be booked privately. A live band performs chilled out classics during the weekend brunch sessions, so you can imagine just how atmospheric the outdoor eatery is.
As for the food, Tel Avivian chef Elior Balbul has pulled out all the stops to create the mezze menu of dreams. Designed for sharing, each plate is substantial in size and caters very well to the vegetarians. The shakshuka is an all-time classic of eggs, aubergine and courgettes smothered with tomatoes and harissa. It goes beautifully with the braised smoke cabbage, which swims in crème fraiche, salsa verde and pecorino. An excellent way to start the meal is by sharing the Jerusalem bagel and pita bread basket, tearing off chunks of the freshly cooked bread and dunking it in appetisers like the babaganoush, zhug and the sweet harissa. With the original and exotic dishes on offer, and the live music playing in the background, you'll instantly get those feel-good vibes to kickstart your weekend.
To book a table visit chameleon.london
Catch up with mates over some steak
You can't go wrong with a visit to Sophie's Steakhouse at their newest branch in Soho. Thanks to its cocktail terrace vibes at the front and an incredible steak restaurant at the back, you and some mates will be able to kick back in the lively atmosphere at the food joint, which serves a variety of American dishes including steak, lobster and fish. What's more, downstairs is Jack Solomons Club - a speakeasy bar named after the famous boxing promoter who once owned a gym on the very same spot.
Book a table, sophiessteakhouse.com
Sample the best sandwiches at Borough Market
Borough Market is teaming with fresh produce and street food stalls, but if there's only one stop you make it must be at the famed The Black Pig. The stand, located at the back of the market, may be small but you won't miss it thanks to the mouthwatering smell of roasted pork and the dozens of people standing in line to try the iconic sandwiches. There are four Italian pork and cheese ciabattas to choose from and they all sound outrageously delicious.
We went for the signature sandwiches – the honey truffle parmesan and the smoked scamorza. Both were generous in size, stuffed to the brim with slow roast pork shoulder and fennel and apple slaw slathered on a toasted ciabatta. The first was smothered with honey truffled mayo and 30-month aged parmesan, while the second was oozing with aioli and scamorza cheese. Both were equally indulgent, full of flavour, and will leave you feeling absolutely stuffed. Hands down some of the best sandwiches you'll try from the market.
For more information, visit theblackpiglondon.co.uk
Have a Chinese feast at Pedler Good Fortune
Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Peckham is newly opened Pedler Good Fortune. Unlike its sister site Pedler, which closed down during the pandemic, this Pedler 2.0 restaurant is focused on innovative and mouthwatering pan-Asian dishes. Upstairs, guests can enjoy a tipple in the cosy and quirky gin bar which serves Little Bird Gin cocktails made in-house by the distilling team, while downstairs is all about the nibbles. The menu features family-style platters that are designed for sharing and we highly recommend going for the Fortune Feast offer, which allows you to pick one dish from each section.
Standout orders include the slow-braised short rib, which melts off the bone and is smothered in saucy deliciousness, as well as the downtown duck, a modern take on Peking duck, made up of a confit-style duck leg, breast medallions and crunchy skin, served with the traditional pancakes, hoisin, cucumber and spring onions of course. Other must-tries include the flavoursome prawn and cod dumplings and the healthy, wok-fried morning glory. On Saturdays, a live DJ also plays in the upstairs gin bar, making it an ideal spot to hang out with friends with a cocktail or two in hand.
To book a table, visit pedlergoodfortune.com
Indulge in steak night at STK Westminster
American steakhouse STK, renowned for its branches across the world including the US, Dubai and Ibiza, has just opened its second London site, STK Westminster. Those who may have previously visited STK Strand will find the same lavish dining experience at the chain's newest venture. Slick white booths, mood lighting, cosy corners, and high-energy tunes playing from Motown to rock, make up the restaurant's vibe.
While the menu features sumptuous dishes like king crab linguine and roasted lamb rack, it is, naturally, all about the steak at STK. Diners can choose from a wide variety of cuts, including fillet, ribeye or wagyu picanha, or upgrade to a sharing Black Angus tomahawk. There's also the option to dress your steak with indulgent toppings like shaved black truffle and a roasted lobster tail, not to mention delicious sauces too. Then there's the mouth-watering sides; the creamy spinach and the triple cooked chips are both a must-order. The steaks may be on the pricier side compared to STK's competitors, but it's the quality and the supreme taste that you're paying for, and definitely worth a visit for a special occasion or if you really want to treat yourself.
STK Westminster also has its own private bowling lane, making it the perfect accompaniment to steak night with a group of friends or colleagues. Given the location of the restaurant in The Westminster London hotel, it definitely has more of a business clientele during the week, while weekends are reserved for bottomless brunch and live DJs.
To book a table visit stksteakhouse.com.
Try Quaglino's new art-deco cocktail menu
Head down to London's most glamorous venue, Quaglino's, to be transported into the glitz and glamour of 1920's London. This stylish haunt situated in the heart of Mayfair is channelling its artistic flair with a tantalising new Art Deco cocktail menu. Perfectly complementing the live music and decadent dining experiences, the bar team has created this new bespoke menu to reflect the style and elegance of Quaglino’s.
If you're looking for an excuse to dress up to the nines, this luxury drinking and dining experience is waiting to be booked.
To make a reservation, visit www.quaglinos-restaurant.co.uk
Admire the floral display at the Chelsea branch of Sticks'n'Sushi
All eyes are set to be on Sticks'n'Sushi later this month when Chelsea in Bloom kicks off from 20 to 25 September. Everyone's favourite sushi restaurant doesn't need another reason to stand out from the crowd on the King's Road, but the venue is sure to have heads turning when its giant dragon display made entirely of sustainably sourced and maintained fresh flowers takes over the restaurant's façade. The impressive dragon will be made with carnations, solidago, aspidistra, crocus and ruscus, and total no fewer than 6,800 stems of flowers and foliage.
Indoors, diners can sip on the new cocktail, CHELSEA'S HANA, made up of Ultimate de Provence Rose wine shaken with Bombay Sapphire, hibiscus liquor and fresh lemon. The delectable tipple is served with a hibiscus sugar rim and, you guessed it, edible flowers. As for the food offering, Sticks'n'Sushi serves high-quality sushi and freshly grilled yakitori sticks with a Nordic twist.
To book a table, visit sticksnsushi.com
Dine in splendour
Housed in a grade II listed building - the former home of British Linen Bank - Piazza Italiana on Threadneedle Street is now officially open! The menu, the brainchild of Victor Ravdive, is based on classic recipes from all over Italy that are focused on authenticity and seasonal ingredients. Although many of these dishes change according to the time of year, certain offerings remain constant, among them signatures such as Sea Bass Carpaccio, Ravioli King Crab, Ossobuco, Gorgonzola Carpaccio and Tagliolini Al Tartufo. Delish!
Book a table here, piazzaitaliana.co.uk
Bottomless Italian brunch
Launching on Saturday 11th September, Belgravia’s neighbourhood Italian restaurant, Il Pampero at The Hari Belgravia , is introducing an all-new Brunch experience. Overseen by Head Chef Matteo D’Elia, the menu fuses typical brunch dishes with authentic Italian produce. We recommend trying the Eggs Benedict with porchetta and spicy hollandaise or one of their beautiful homemade pizzas, but be sure to save room for their scrumptious apple tarte tatin! Guests can also choose to accompany their delectable Brunch choices with bottomless Prosecco, Aperol Spritz, or a Milanese G&T. We must add that the Aperol Spritz is the best we’ve ever tried, so be sure to enjoy the bottomless bubbles!
To book visit here
The perfect steaks and show-stopping desserts
Head down to the newly opened Bar and Block in Southwark to enjoy high-quality steaks and drool-worthy burgers prepared for you by expert chefs on site. To start, be sure to tuck into the Mac and Cheese bites, the perfectly crispy mini bites are guaranteed to get your taste buds going, and after a perfectly cooked steak, be sure to try the melting chocolate dome. If you’re anything like us and love chocolate, this show-stopping dessert is the one for you!
Book a table here
Celebrate 20 years of excellence at Hakkasan
Get ready for a truly special meal at the Michelin-starred Hakkasan. The restaurant, which has locations in both Mayfair and Hanway Place, is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a limited-edition set menu designed to highlight their best and most popular dishes from over the years - and we can see why people loved them so much. Sit back and enjoy s you are treated to a gorgeous set menu, with highlights including the lobster wontons, black pepper beef with merlot and scallop shumai, mmm.
To book, visit hakkasan.com
See the sights with a cocktail like no other at Oblix East
There’s nothing quite like a visit to The Shard, and reserving a table at Oblix will truly let you see the views of London Bridge and beyond in style. The restaurant serves a series of delicious bar meals, including fish and chips and wagyu burgers - but it is the cocktails that you will be Instagramming! These one-of-a-kind drinks are sensational, from bubble cocktails to the Born a Star, which is served in its very own Shard-themed tower.
To book, visit oblixrestaurant.com
Catch up with friends in South Kensington at 28-50 Wine Workshop & Kitchen
Dash some shallots and tabasco on an oyster, tuck into some lamb shoulder or enjoy the delicious seared tuna at this charming eatery in South Kensington. The restaurant has a laid back, warm atmosphere, which is made all the better by the friendly staff, and we can’t wait to go again!
To book, visit 2850southken.co.uk
Celebrate the weekend at Bunga Bunga
Is there any bottomless brunch that can quite live up to Bunga Bunga? The wildly popular restaurant, with locations in Bermondsey and Covent Garden, is known for it’s party-like meals, and nothing could be more fun post-COVID than filling up on bottomless prosecco, tucking into a footlong pizza with your pals, and grabbing hold of the shower-themed microphone for a bit of a karaoke singsong. The restaurant is also offering a pizza-making party at Covent Garden for all of those foodies out there, so what are you waiting for?!
To book, visit bungabunga.com
Enjoy a vegetarian feast at The Gate
Dine out and indulge guilt-free at one of London's longest-running plant-based restaurants. The Gate offers up a serving of freshly prepared vegetarian and vegan dishes that will even get carnivores salivating. Highlights on the menu include the miso-glazed aubergine with toasted cashew nuts, the wild mushroom risotto cake and the courgette flower – stuffed with roasted butternut and homemade ricotta. Cocktails and non-alcoholic alternatives are also on the menu, while the selection of desserts – from tiramisu to a vegan mango and passion fruit cheesecake, are too tempting not to try. The restaurant's original site is located in a former artist's studio in Hammersmith, boasting high ceilings and exposed brick walls, as well as a botanical-inspired outdoor seating area – ideal for the last few weeks of the summer.
For more info, visit thegaterestaurants.com
Finish off the summer with a champagne tasting dinner
After the unpredictable year we've had, it's safe to say we all deserve a treat. If you fancy something a little bit special this month, head over to Hampton Court for an indulgent champagne tasting dinner. The six-course meal by award-winning chef Jack Scoines is paired with a Charles Heidsieck Champagne to complement each meal. This is in honour of Concourse of Elegance, the renowned car show, which displays 300 of the finest and rarest motor cars ever to be seen in the grounds of the Kings Arms neighbour, Hampton Court Palace.
From 2-4 September – for more info visit: www.kingsarmshamptoncourt.com
Sing along with West End stars
Covent Garden favourite Mrs Riot is excited to launch a brand new Musical Mondays - a night packed with sing along songs and entertainment from top musical stars hot from the West End. They have some really big names lined-up including guest appearances from Sharlene Hector of Basement Jaxx, Sophie Issacs from SIX and loads of West End stars including Natalie Woods and Christopher Howell as hosts, who are stars of Hairspray the Musical!
To book, visit here
Go free-flowing at Aqua Nueva
Aqua Nueva’s La Fiesta brunch is perfect for any celebation, with live DJ music and Flamenco dancers performing throughout the day - taking you from bottomless brunch to Spain! Visitors will be served a variety of Spanish tapas dishes from the Andalusia region starting with a Southern Spain delicacy, Salmorejo and then moving onto Crystal bread & alioli, a Classic Spanish tortilla with Red piquillo purée and a selection of Croquettes. The brunch will also include a selection of Chorizo, chicken and seared salmon skewers served with a traditional Southern Papas Aliñas salad, followed by Raspberry churros with Paedro Ximénez chocolate sauce to finish. The brunch menu will be available every Saturday from £40pp, with the addition of free-flowing cocktails and bubbles for £75pp.
Info: https://aquanueva.co.uk/experience
Enjoy a Mediterranean brunch at JOAN
Say hello to JOAN, the new cool kid on the block who opened its doors in Shoreditch at the end of 2020, before having to close again amid lockdown restrictions. With London now in full swing, JOAN was back welcoming diners this summer and if you haven't made a trip to the East London eatery yet, it's well worth a visit. The focus is on Mediterranean fare, with the brunch menu boasting some delicious sweet and savoury options. It's the perfect way to kickstart your weekend: settle in to one of their velvet booths in their vibrant and colourful dining room and enjoy the eclectic food choices, from grilled kimchi toast to their modern take on avocado on toast.
The absolute bestseller, and it's easy to see why, is the indulgent baked brioche bun which is stuffed with creamy spinach and bacon and served with a fried egg and crispy chips. There's a big Greek influence in the menu too, so we highly recommend the penirli dishes, which are similar to a pie. The chicken and lemony yoghurt penirli, made on a doughy base, is perfect for carb-lovers. Offset it with a side of perfectly grilled halloumi. You can also choose to upgrade your brunch by making it bottomless - £25 for unlimited bubbles or mimosas.
To book a table, visit joanshoreditch.co.uk
Discover the best of London's food scene at BOXPARK
Calling all foodies, introducing to hippest food spot on the block. BOXPARK Shoreditch has just launched new traders, offering vegan Pan-Asian street food, pillowy Neapolitan pizzas, award-winning healthy breakfasts, and an irresistible dessert station, whilst BOXPARK Wembley introduces some good old fish & chips, and Greek-style gyros with tasty grilled meats.
For deceptively delicious plant-based food, head to Clean Kitchen at the Shoreditch branch for the best 'chicken' burgers you'll want to sink your teeth into. A vibey hangout with live music, DJ sets and unbeatable food, this rooftop spot is not one to miss.
Have a steak you won't forget at Gaucho Tower Bridge
When you arrive at Gaucho Tower Bridge, you’ll be forgiven for thinking it’s the view that you won’t be able to get out of your head once you’ve left. Situated on the banks of the Thames, the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling vista of Tower Bridge and the Tower of London takes your breath away. But once you’ve tasted Gaucho’s Argentinian steaks (not to mention their array of blow-your-socks-off accompaniments like mac and cheese, and mashed potato so creamy it almost flows onto your plate) you’ll realise it’s the food that really makes this restaurant stand apart.
A meal at Gaucho is a real treat. From the pre-dinner cocktails to the starters (the bread is to die for but try to hold back a bit – you don’t want to be too full for the main event!), everything feels luxurious and decadent. Our Digital Editor Sophie tried a variety of steaks, each one of them was divine. "The Lomo fillet literally melts in your mouth while the Churrasco de Chorizo was beautifully marinated and mouth-wateringly juicy.
With chips, mash, mac and cheese and some healthy greens on the menu, it’s hard to find space for dessert. But if you do manage, the Salted Dulche De Leche cheesecake will not disappoint. I was tempted to just have an ice cream, and was pleased to be persuaded to the Don Pedro – whipped ice cream with walnuts and rum. The perfect way to end a very special meal."
For reservation, visit gauchorestaurants.com/restaurants/tower-bridge/
Experience Japanese Yakitori at Junsei in Marylebone
Nestled in a quiet corner of Seymour Street, just off the Marylebone Road, is a brand new Japanese restaurant, Junsei, offering diners an up-close and personal introduction to the Japanese delight of Yakitori. It’s a small, intimate restaurant (seating just 38) and without a doubt the best place to really experience Yakatori is with a seat at the chef’s table, right at the front of the restaurant where you can see chef Aman Lakhiani and team prepare an array of skewers, grilled over Binchōtan - a white charcoal using Japanese oak – right in front of you.
The word Yakitori means ‘grilled bird’ and chicken really is the hero of this experience. Expert butchery means every part of the animal is used in different dishes. The Omakase option allows the chefs to serve you their own pick of the best dishes in season – we definitely recommend this option!
The skewers all have their own unique appearance and taste, despite all being grilled over the high Binchōtan heat. The soy-marinated quail eggs were incredible and surprising, while the Tsukune chicken meatballs served with raw egg yolk to dip, were a taste experience.
Book a table via https://junsei.co.uk/
Have a sweet treat
Krispy Kreme has paired up with Nestlé Toffee Crisp to create a limited edition doughnut – the Toffee Krispy! From sumptuous and sweet chocolate, delicious soft caramel and the comforting crunch from crispy cereal pieces all married together in a secret Krispy Kreme recipe – this is a doughnut that is sure to taste amazing! Head down to one of the stores to get your hands on the new range - only until 10 October.
Find out more here, krispykreme.co.uk
Grab a free pint!
Toasting to 190 years, every Young’s pub on 16th September will be celebrating the big 1-9-0 for Young’s Day with their very own parties, while lucky On Tap app users will receive a free pint treat – simply check the ‘Your Treats’ section to see if you have a pint surprise. The dray horse and cart will also return for one day only, taking a tour of Greenwich from Richard I to the Cutty Sark and Enderby House. Come out to catch a glimpse of the horses in action, then head to your pub of choice for party celebrations, with events including a Giant 190 sausage roll giveaway at the Old Brewery, a sing-along at Richard I and a special birthday menu at Enderby House.
Find out more here
Best luxury things to do in London in September
Dine in the sky at Fenchurch
You may have been to Sky Garden, but have you been to refined dining restaurant Fenchurch, located on the 37th floor of the skyscraper? Recently appointed head chef Michael Carr has created a new British autumn menu that boasts experimental dishes, explosive flavours and playful presentation. Starters include the Loch Fyne hot smoked salmon, oyster emulsion and watercress dressing, while some of the mouthwatering mains are the 30-day aged rib of beef or the Peterhead cod and native lobster for the seafood lovers. Make sure you leave room for dessert; the tiramisu with dark chocolate and mascarpone, and the balsamic crème caramel with English strawberries, meringue, and cardamom yoghurt sorbet, are both as pretty as a picture.
Fenchurch restaurant is open every Thursday to Sunday for lunch and dinner and will be open for dinner on Wednesday from 6 October. Next month will also see the launch of its British sparkling wine series. The first up will be run by family-owned Hattingley Valley Wines Estate, who will teach diners about winemaking techniques, growing conditions, properties of the wines, and the grape-to-glass process. Attendees will then be invited to sample some exquisite canapés before sitting down for a four-course tasting menu with wine pairings. Tickets for these exclusive wine series events cost £125pp and take place in the restaurant's beautiful private Vinoly Room, with sweeping views of the city.
To book a table or a ticket for the event, visit skygarden.london/restaurants/fenchurch
Indulge in a five-star overnight stay at 100 Queen's Gate Hotel
For an unforgettable experience complete with five-star luxury, situated in the heart of London's romantic Kensington, you'll love this overnight stay with afternoon tea for two at 100 Queen’s Gate Hotel London, Curio Collection by Hilton.
With exquisite décor in the deluxe room, plush kingsize beds and glorious views of London's skyline, this hotel stay guarantees relaxation. Just a stone's throw from world-famous attractions such as Kensington Palace, Hyde Park and Royal Albert Hall, you'll never be far from things to do with your loved one.
In the afternoon, enjoy a creatively crafted afternoon tea in the hotel’s glass-roofed atrium room, Botanica. Dine like the Queen as you tuck into an array of delicious sweet and savoury treats. In the morning, enjoy a tasty full English breakfast, before enjoying a late checkout.
For just £269, this steal is not one to miss. To book, visit virginexperiencedays.com
Get a fresh new cut at Gielly Green
If in doubt, go for a change. That's the motto of luxury hair and beauty salon Gielly Green, whose flagship store is based in Marylebone and who have another branch in the City. Step into the buzzy salon in west London and you'll immediately see you're in safe hands. The professional stylists and colourists will be able to guide you if you aren't sure of exactly what you want, or if you want to try something new.
When HELLO! visited at the end of summer, it felt like a literal weight off our shoulders to chop all that lockdown hair off and come out with a completely new 'do. We knew we could completely trust signature stylist, Matt Harrison, and left feeling uplifted, refreshed and like a new person – the signs of a fabulous job well done. As well as the classic cut and finish, treatments include a blow-dry (the perfect pick-me-up for a special occasion), colouring, straightening and also bridal styling. Downstairs, the salon extends to all types of beauty treatments from facials to massages.
To book an appointment, visit giellygreen.co.uk
Embrace some change
Helix & Conch, the British independent curated ear jewellery brand, has is welcoming customers to see their expanded solid gold collection, with some really beautiful pieces. What's more, you can try out their fabulous ear design service. What started out as a small collection for the brand has now started to offer a great variety of styles including labret studs, huggies and charms. It's fantastic for those wanting something a little more special and they work really well mixed with non-solid gold pieces from the rest of the Helix & Conch collection.
Visit here, helixandconch.com
Get night-out ready at London's chicest salon
Blush + Blow is changing the wellness game, bringing the very best of aesthetic treatments, luxury beauty, hair and even nutrition, all under one roof in Parsons Green. Their expert skin specialist, Abbi Ingram, offers a showstopping bespoke skin treatment tailored to combat any skin concern. Using a combination of microdermabrasion, chemical peels, extraction and massage to soothe and calm stressed skin, this service is good enough to get anyone red carpet ready.
Who said you couldn't get a five-star facial in your lunch break? Our writers trialled Abbi's Bespoke Skin Facial, and trust us when we say your lockdown skin concerns are soon to be forgotten...
To book an appointment, visit www.blushandblowlondon.com
Experience London's skyline up The Shard
With an offer combining incomparable views of the capital and three exquisite courses of top-quality cuisine, this experience certainly won’t be a Shard-knock life for you.
Enjoy London's spectacular skyline at The View from The Shard, with three-course dining at Marco Pierre White’s London Steakhouse Co. and a cocktail each. This unforgettable experience is currently on offer for less than £100 – don't miss it!
To book, visit wowcher.co.uk
Get an A-list makeover with Waterhouse Young Clinic
Elle MacPherson swears by lymphatic drainage when it comes to maintaining her famous body, whilst Beyonce and Kate Winslet line up for HydraFacials, so Waterhouse Young’s new double whammy treatment – the HydraPresso – is an A-list match made in heaven.
The treatment is a combination of PressoTherapy (a detoxifying lymphatic drainage treatment which gets rid of bloat and does wonders for your health) and a HydraFacial, which takes place as the PressoTherapy suit is getting to work. It’s a little sci-fi to begin with, but the team at Waterhouse Young are experts when it comes to skincare, so if they say getting into a spacesuit from your legs up to your chest is the right thing to do, you just kind of do it. Once lying down in the suit, the machine starts up and gently massages and squashes you from the feet up to the stomach in a never-ending rotation. The first time is a little bizarre, and the motion around your lower belly feels a little intense, but as you get used to it, it becomes incredibly relaxing.
They HydroFacial is really incredible – it’s no wonder Hollywood’s finest are fans. A small vacuum device literally sucks all the impurities out of your skin – the water makes it feel gentle and various treatments are added during the facial, from glycolic acid to antioxidants. It feels amazing – you can literally sense your pores decongesting and the skin tightening, yet it’s also surprisingly relaxing once you get used to the sensation.
Our Digital Editor Sophie said: "It’s a treat of a treatment - £350 for the combination – but the results are quite incredible. The therapist said your skin looks best the day after but honestly for the whole next couple of weeks I was glowing and I literally felt 10 years younger."
To book in for a treatment, visit waterhouseyoung.com
Race into a real world of gaming with Chaos Karts
Gamers, rejoice! This is truly an experience like no other: Chaos Karts uses state-of-the-art technology to combine real-life racing with augmented reality. Taking place in Shoreditch from 15th September, you and your friends can whizz around a digitally projected track in an incredibly fun race.
The experience comes complete with different track designs, music and most importantly, augmented reality weapons that you can collect on the floor of the track to use against your competitors! Strap in for the ride of your life...
To book, visit chaoskarts.com
Get stuck in at Fashion District Festival
Fashion District’s Festival will be open from 22-26 September across venues in and around Westfield Stratford, and is ideal if you consider yourself a fashionista. At the festival, you can shop sustainable new and pre-loved clothes, watch designer showcases and styling sessions, try your hand at making something from scratch, and if you have your own start-up brand, you can network!
To book, visit fashion-district.co.uk
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