February has arrived faster than you can say 'Happy New Year', and though there's still a wintery chill in London, the January sunshine has got us excited for all the bottomless brunches, restaurant openings, theatre deals and fun events the city has to offer.
SEE: 15 romantic things to do in London on Valentine's Day
Whether you're thinking of the ultimate Valentine's Day date night for the most romantic month of the year, or you're looking to fill your February half-term with family fun, there's something for everyone to enjoy in London this month. While we wait for spring to roll around, you might want to discover something new to do in the capital. Discover the HELLO! writers' favourite things to do in London in February 2022.
DISCOVER: 35 UK hotels you need to visit for a weekend getaway
Best alternative things to do in London in February
Celebrate Lunar new year with afternoon tea at Pan Pacific
No Lunar New Year celebration is more exquisite than Pan Pacific's Year of The Tiger Afternoon Tea, created by multi-award-winning Executive Chef Lorraine Sinclair and renowned Executive Pastry Chef Cherish Finden.
Hosted in Pan Pacific's serene drawing room, the Orchid Lounge, you'll be hard pushed to find a more creative afternoon tea in London this month. Guests are presented with a firecracker selection of hand-made patisserie, traditional favourites of the Chinese spring and a sumptuous Chinese New Year Prosperity Box - featuring surprising little treats of good fortune. Tempting mandarin orange mousse, marmalade and tiger sponge is accompanied by an edible sesame teapot cheesecake. Other sweet treats include an edible mango and coconut firecracker and a chocolate purse, with 67% Guanaco, gula malaka sponge, and lime namalaka.
For those who’d like a savoury rise to the Lunar New Year, a selection of Asian savouries is available, adding an elegant twist to the timeless glamour of the afternoon tea tradition.
To book, visit redletterdays.co.uk
Experience a taste of Japan at Neverland London
Escape to Little Kyoto this February at Fulham's most glamorous hotspot, Neverland London. A total Instagram lovers' dream, the perfect pink paradise has just launched a new beautiful pop up you won't want to miss.
Opening from 11 Feb, the Little Kyoto pop up is the perfect destination to catch up with your Galentines. Feast on delicious soft bao buns, the finest sushi and crispy gyozas. Celebrate with cocktails inspired by Spring, Yuzu and Lychee Martini, Midori Sour, Raspberry Blossom and Kyoto Mule, curated by Neverland’s very own in-house mixologist.
With multiple seating areas, allowing intimate or social settings, get together with friends this spring to enjoy delicious food, yummy cocktails and great vibes. It’s also great for private parties, special occasions like hen nights, and team building events.
To book, visit neverlandlondon.com/little-kyoto
Enjoy a luxury stay at London's Tower Bridge
It's officially the most romantic month of the year, so why not treat your loved one to a luxe four-star stay in the capital? If you've ever dreamt of waking up to the view of one of London's most iconic landmarks, you'll love an overnight stay at The Dixon Hotel for two people with breakfast. For a truly romantic evening for two, take a trip up the Shard and watch the sunset over the capital on the viewing deck or catch a world-renowned West End show. From £119 for an overnight stay, from £298 for a two-night stay, or from £435 for a three-night stay, valid until March only - with a deal this good, what's the excuse not to?
To book, visit wowcher.co.uk
Hunt down the best pancakes in London at The Breakfast Club
Pancake day is easily one of the most underrated days of the year. An entire day dedicated to eating cake (albeit a flat one)? Sign us up. On hand to mark the occasion from 28 February to 6 March, The Breakfast Club is adding not just one, but four limited-edition pancake recipes to their iconic menu so you can indulge amongst other breakfast legends.
This year also marks the return of the Breakfast Club’s legendary Pancake Challenge. Can you hack the stack? 12 pancakes in 12 minutes. Win? The stacks on them. Lose? Cough up £20 and The Breakfast Club will put your money to good use supporting our community outreach program Good Day, which aims to reduce loneliness & isolation amongst older people. Available in all Breakfast Clubs on Pancake Day only.
Bridget Jones movie night with a bottle
If this isn't the best way to spend a Saturday with your Galentine's, we don't know what is. The epic venue Clapham Grand is hosting a Bridget Jones movie night, complete with themed cocktails, singalong and big pant dance-off. Indulge in a bottle of wine for two with straws in true Bridget style, or head to the bar for blue soup inspired cocktails (that are sure to be better than Bridget's.)
To book a ticket for two, including a bottle of wine, visit wowcher.co.uk
Get serenaded on this BYOB boat trip
Struggling with weekend plans? How does sipping on your own drinks whilst taking in the gorgeous riverside views of London on The Music Boat sound? Enjoy the musical stylings of some of the city’s most spellbinding talent with a live performance on board, soaking up the February sunshine as you cruise down Regent's Canal.
Better yet, we've found an offer that promises a boat ticket for up to seven people from just £14, saving you up to 30% off The Music Boat's prices.
To book, visit wowcher.co.uk
Visit Kew Gardens with a Thames River Cruise
If you haven't yet explored the beauty of Kew Gardens, this Thames Cruise River Cruise for two is the ultimate way to soak up the magic of the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the world's largest collection of living plants.
From Westminster Pier, you’ll weave your way along the river, past the London Eye and the Palace of Westminster, as you head towards Kew Gardens. Through locks and under bridges you’ll get to see London from a unique vantage point. The Royal Kitchens, Palm House, Rose Garden and even Britain’s smallest palace are waiting to be seen, guaranteeing a fantastic day full of special sights.
To book, visit virginexperiencedays.co.uk
Watch the bakery experts work their magic
Iconic American style bakery The Hummingbird Bakery has opened the doors to its reimagined flagship on Old Brompton Road, South Kensington. The stylishly designed store continues to serve the local community and loyal Hummingbird fans as the brand strives to bring love, joy and celebration to all through their extensive menu of cakes, pies, cookies and brownies.
Unique to this store is a new personalisation station where guests will be able to watch The Hummingbird Bakery's team of expert bakers apply bespoke decorations to their chosen cake whilst they wait. Renowned for introducing Red Velvet cakes to Great Britain, The Hummingbird Bakery has gone from strength to strength and has amassed a legion of devout followers. Alongside the range of already beloved sweet treats, a selection of brand new desserts will also be launching in store.
Visit, hummingbirdbakery.com
Explore Seven Dials
Seven Dials is a stone's throw from Covent Garden and a fabulous gem of a place. We recommend you take a trip to one of the capital's best-kept spots. Fancy a decadent brunch with a side of designer coffee that tastes as good as it looks? You need to visit Watchhouse, ASAP. We've never seen such a stylish eatery; it almost looks like the inside of a spa. With colour-coded coffee to take away and the most delicious avocado on toast we've ever eaten, you'd be a fool to miss it.
Head to Watchouse.com for more information.
If you need some relaxation after a busy week at work, nestled in the heart of Seven Dials is Neal's Yard Remedies. Just over the road from their well-equipped store, are their therapy rooms which are spacious, calming, stylish and offer a huge array of treatments. You need to try reflexology with Mustafa, he's a genius.
To book, head to Neal'sYard.com
See the new Magical Mischief display at Warner Bros studios
Want to see some of the mischief behind the Potter films? Warner Bros have opemned their doors to the trickery behind those famous scenes. Entering the Great Hall, fans will recognise the set dressed for a Weasley prank on the peaceful O.W.L.s exam, complete with the swinging pendulum under the watchful eye of Dolores Umbridge. Demonstrations throughout the Studio Tour during this feature include how clever camera trickery created the disappearing effect of the invisibility cloak and visitors will also be able to get hands on to make their own origami howler, just like the one Mrs Weasley delivered to her son in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. It will be highlighting the magical mishaps that happen throughout the films including how the SFX Team created the infamous fireplace letter scene inside 4 Privet Drive and Fred and George Weasley’s accidental beards after they put their names into the Goblet of Fire. Mischief managed!
Info and booking:wbstudiotour.co.uk/
Enjoy art at Andaz London
Andaz London Liverpool Street has announced the launch of its East London Creative In Residence series, with photographer Stefan Sieler’s first solo exhibition Moments of Being, inspired by the hotel and showing in the historic 1901 Ballroom, from 14th to 20th February 2022.Walthamstow-based photographer Sieler was allowed unrestricted access to Shoreditch’s Andaz London, and the exhibition is inspired by the building’s many-layered history and eclectic design, combining its rich Victorian heritage from 1884 as The Great Eastern Hotel with today’s modern aesthetic and East London’s creative flare and colourful vibrancy.
Info: andazlondonliverpoolstreet.com
Family fun at Coal Drops Yard - kids go free!
Extended due to high demand, Coal Drops Yard’s striking synthetic curling rink, Club Curling, is now taking bookings for February, offering the ultimate winter activity to enjoy in the coldest month. Perfect for families, friends or even a first date, curl the night away with teams of up to four players across the six lanes.
Club Curling is open seven days a week with slots available between 12-8pm. Each session lasts 45 minutes and costs only a fiver per player [kids go free].
For more information and to book your slot, visit www.kingscross.co.uk/event/club-curling.
AZAR's alternative Valentine's Day event for singles
Championing single positivity and the art of human conversation, the social discovery app Azar is bringing together like-minded people with a stand-out panel of self-love experts, hosted by Angelica Malin, Bestselling Author of She Made It and Unattached.
Panel speakers include Francesca Spector - Journalist and Author of Alonement: How To Be Alone & Absolutely Own It, Radhika Sanghani - Journalist, body positivity campaigner and Author of Thirty Things I Love About Myself, Virgin and Not That Easy, Chantelle Dyson - known as Chantell the Coach - life and confidence coach for single women. There will also be a special guest performance from an exciting artist.
Anyone and everyone can enter to win a chance to attend the event here or watch live through the Azar app.
Treat your Galentine's Day date to a Taylor Swift-inspired candlelight concert
We can't think of a better way to spend Galentine's Day than with our besties at this Taylor Swift-inspired concert!. Surrounded by the gentle glow of candlelight, a string quartet will perform 12 song's from the award-winning singer's catalogue - like never before. While die-hard Swifties will know all the lyrics, this concert's sublime performance and stunning atmosphere, you'll feel as if you're listening to them for the first time.
To book, visitFeverUp.com
Visit the exhibition everyone's talking about
Do you love Beatrix Potter and the Tale of Peter Rabbit & Friends? If yes, you're going to love the V&A's beautiful new exhibition. Beatrix Potter: Drawn to Nature runs from 12 February 2022 – 8 January 2023 and is a true gem. There's an abundance of fascinating artifacts, from personal letters to early sketchbooks by Miss Potter, and manuscripts and intricate drawings. Any fan will be delighted to witness artworks from some of her most famous storybooks, including The Tale of Benjamin Bunny, The Tale of Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle and The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck.
For tickets, visit the V&A.
Best bars to visit in London in February
Enjoy a Cirque du Soleil cocktail at the Ivy Kensington
Cirque du Soleil has made a magnificent return to the stage at London's Royal Albert Hall with Luiza, and The Ivy Kensington Brasserie has introduced a trio of delicious, Mexican-inspired cocktails in celebration of its return. For the ultimate pre-theatre taste of Mexico, sip on the Paloma Rosa, the Buena Muerte Margarita and the spectacular El Cementerio, made with quality PATRON spirits, each one taking you on a tantalising adventure with the taste of Mexico in every sip.
Available throughout February, guests and passers-by will also be able to enjoy an eye-catching visual installation at the brasserie’s entrance, complete with nods to Mexico throughout.
To book, visit theivykensingtonbrasserie.com
Enjoy limited-edition cocktails at The Ivy Asia, St Paul's
The celebrations for Lunar New Year haven't yet ended in London, and The Ivy Asia, St Paul’s is bringing Chinese New Year to the very heart of the capital. Guests can expect to celebrate in style with exquisite festivities, limited-edition cocktails, and an exclusive dessert from Tuesday, 1 February to Tuesday, 15 March.
To celebrate the occasion, the restaurant has created a series of limited-edition cocktails each inspired by the king of all beasts. Hero cocktails include, King of the Mountain made from Wyborowa Vodka, Akashi-Tai Umeshu Plum Sake, raspberries and lime juice, Tigers Bite which features Grey Goose Vanilla Vodka, honey, elderflower and lime juice, garnished with red chillies, and the showstopping Lunar Harmony which is made from Hibiki Harmony Japanese Whisky, Cocchi di Torino Vermouth, Mancino Cherry Blossom Vermouth, Campari and chocolate bitters.
Guests can also relish on THE TIGER, an exclusive dessert featuring an exquisite chocolate mousse brownie with toasted coconut ice cream and topped with mouth-watering chocolate pearls.
To book, visit theivyasia.com
Best luxury things to do in London in February
Get a Champagne Facial at Young LDN
Book a Champagne Facial at Young LDN, and everyone will be asking you how you got your glow. We checked out the salon's vibey beauty bar in Notting Hill and left feeling rejuvenated, relaxed, and ready to turn heads with our post-facial glow (and trust us, it's intense).
With no downtime, this luxe facial is designed to revive tired and congested skin, the Champagne Facial features a gentle yet powerful foaming fruit Enzyme Masque, which produces a luxurious foaming activity (similar to champagne bubbles on the skin). The active ingredients exfoliate and deep cleanse the pores to reveal a polished, radiant complexion, while a cooling, rejuvenating mask deeply hydrates, brightens and re-energises the skin for instant radiant-looking skin. This celebrity-favourite treatment most definitely passes the "OMG, what skincare are you using?" test. Ask for Abbey when you book and you're in for a five-star treatment.
To book, visit youngldn.com
Relax and recharge at Royal Lancaster London's new spa
Five-star hotel Royal Lancaster London has just opened its new, intimate spa, the Royal Nuad Thai, offering authentic and blissful Thai treatments in the heart of the city. Made up of just three rooms which are fully equipped with their own showers and bathrooms and named after Thai flowers (Lotus, Jasmine and Hibiscus), the spa has a range of treatments including the ultimate Thai massage, a full body oil massage, and a herbal compress massage. Each treatment starts with a scented foot spa and natural scrub, and also involves a bit of stretching and assisted yoga postures to ensure you feel relaxed yet rejuvenated after your session. Expect quality treatments, professional and friendly staff, and a beautiful space to unwind. The spa is open every day to guests and visitors from 10 am to 8pm.
To book a treatment, visit royallancaster.com
Enjoy a glass of champagne
Between 7 February to June, Rose Lumiere guests will step inside a traditional romantic French cinema house, taking over the bar and retail space in Selfridges, to showcase the pioneering roles of some of the world's most luxurious rosé wines. The iconic rosé wine portfolios of Veuve Clicquot, Moët & Chandon, Ruinart and Château d’Esclans will be up in lights all under one roof for the first time, offering the opportunity to experience different and unique rosé expressions. From champagne tasting experiences, to wine tasting flights, to cocktail masterclasses with mixologists, there will be something to suit all discerning rosé palates starting this Valentine’s season.
To find out more, visit www.selfridges.com/GB/en/
Treat yourself to an afternoon tea fit for royalty
To celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee, Kona at the luxurious five star hotel Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites & Residences have launched The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Afternoon Tea, featuring beautifully designed pastries and scrumptious savoury treats inspired by Queen Elizabeth’s sensational 70-year reign.
Expect treats such as miniature royal carriages encasing delicate pastries and scones served the way the monarch prefers (the traditional Cornish way, which consists of jam first, then clotted cream). Bookings are available from 8 February and will be running throughout the year to mark the monarch’s milestone year. The afternoon tea costs £70, but can also be enjoyed for £95 with the addition of half a bottle of Bollinger Champagne which, as holders of the royal warrant, is the perfect accompaniment to the royal-inspired menu. With Taj 51 being just a stone’s throw from Buckingham Palace, it is the perfect place to mark the momentous milestone and enjoy an afternoon tea fit for royalty.
To book, visit taj51buckinghamgate.co.uk
Indulge in a romantic pampering session
In the mood for some pampering? Relax, recharge and indulge at the luxurious Cloud Twelve spa in Notting Hill. Share the Valentine's experience with your loved one thanks to their special Valentine's Couple Package or why not spoil yourself with the Treat Yourself Package. Enjoy a choice of massages and facials performed in the stunning suite, equipped with heated Dolomites quartz beds to help promote a deeper state of relaxation. Don't forget to make full use of the spa facilities including salt, sauna and steam rooms available in the Thermal Suite. You'll also receive a surprise gift for you to take away from the beauty bar.
Hurry as the offer is only available from February 1 to 28. Find out more at cloudtwelve.co.uk/offers
Get pampered without leaving your own home
When HELLO! was offered the chance to try beauty app Urban, we jumped at the chance. Billed as a "massage delivery app on a mission to make city life better," the app enables you to book massage, beauty and physio treatments direct to your door in just 60 minutes. Perfect for those of us who don't have the time to trek into central London, you can get pampered at home between the hours of 7am and 11pm by a fully-equipped, pre-vetted professional.
Some of the most popular treatments include a deep tissue massage, a Dermalogica facial or a gel manicure, but they offer over 15 different styles of massage, as well as physiotherapy and osteopathy. We went for the deep tissue and it didn't disappoint! Urban has also just launched a brand new brow service with four different treatments, offering brow lamination (including shape and tint), definition brows, brow shaping or a brow tint and shape.
To get your pamper on, visit urban.co
Relax at Canopy by Hilton London City
The newly opened Canopy by Hilton London City is the perfect place to relax after a long day sightseeing. Within walking distance from London's East End, the hotel has a gorgeous open-plan café with the most wonderful cocktails and one of the best burgers in town - seriously, the burger is a must! In such close proximity to London’s leading attractions, including Tower Bridge, St Pauls’ Cathedral and Borough Market, if you fancy staying in the area a little longer, their hotel rooms are spectacular. All rooms are finished with contemporary and thoughtful designs, with impressive city views and the ultimate breakfast buffet - what more could you want!
To book, visit here
Best restaurants to visit in London in February
Dine in the skies at Duck and Waffle
If you wanted to go somewhere for the ultimate special occasion, Duck and Waffle is a London staple that never ever disappoints! Whether you want to dine on their gorgeous cheese souffle, grilled octopus or lobster mac n cheese, everything is made with a lot of love by the talented chefs. Not to mention, their cocktail selection is almost as important as their food selection, and have some gorgeous choices for the winter months including an Autumn Royale and Pecan Old Fashioned. Mmm!
Find out more at duckandwaffle.com
Treat yourself to a Pan-Caribbean delight at Antillean
Behind an unassuming frontage on Blackfriars Bridge Road, Antillean is a hidden gem guaranteed to get you out of a February slump with a sumptuous array of Pan-Caribbean dishes and some seriously sunshine-filled cocktails.
The modest entrance hides an unexpectedly spacious restaurant set inside an 18th Century coach house, close to both Southwark and Waterloo stations. And once inside, the cool, bright space with stunning vaulted ceilings sets the scene for a unique culinary experience bringing Caribbean classics into a high end environment - with fantastic results.
Enjoy fresh fish, meat and vegetarian options including Scallop Ceviche, Oxtail patties with Bajan Hot Sauce, Jackfruit Curry and Rasta Pasta - all clever twists on traditional flavours by Chef Patron Michael Hanbury (this is Michael's first solo venture after 11 years as executive chef at Asia de Cuba). And one thing we mustn't forget to mention are the cocktails. If you've ever enjoyed a rum punch on a Caribbean beach, you'll understand why these taste so good!
And save space for desert too - we still can't decide if the Island Chocolate Torte or the Guiness Punch Ice Cream was the best. A really special night out.
Book a table by visiting antillean.co.uk.
Eat the best butter chicken in London at Copper Chimney
Yes, you read that right. We've officially found the best Butter Chicken dish in London - at least we're pretty convinced we have. Found in Copper Chimney, a vibey venue with a welcoming atmosphere based in Westfield, Shepherd's Bush, this stunning restaurant delivers the very best of Bombay-inspired cuisine that will leave you wanting more. Copper Chimney is an ode to secret recipes and cooking techniques from across North India. Founded by JK Kapur in 1972 in Bombay, the restaurant serves up a flavourful selection of its signature Indian dishes to deliver a unique and delicious dining experience.
Our favourite picks were the firey Grilled Burrah Lamb Chops, marinated in a flavoursome sauce and baked until they fell off the bone, the unforgettable Butter Chicken and the delicious Baluchi Naan. We couldn't help but notice the reaction from tables around us as they took their first bite of food - pure excitement and delight at the delicious dishes, served by the kindest of staff.
To book, visit copperchimney.uk
Experience a 'Transatlantic Journey'
Sea Containers restaurant has launched a new 'Transatlantic Journey' themed menu for 2022. Centered around the history of the building, the menu combines both Modern American and British Cuisine with hints of West Indian spices. With small and large sharing plates including curried goat flatbread, whole lemon thyme fried chicken, roasted bone marrow and grilled sweetheart cabbage with red miso aioli, this delectable new menu isn't one to miss.
To book, visit seacontainerslondon.com
Feast on the biggest pizzas at Homeslice
Want a pizza with a difference? Then Homeslice is the branch you need to check out in London. With five venues sprawled across the city, the laid-back eatery, which is perfect for a chilled date night or a group of friends, doesn't do 'regular' pizza. There isn't a pepperoni in sight on the menu; instead, the toppings are a little more out-there. They might not sound like they work, but trust us, they do!
The mushroom pizza (pictured) is an absolute bestseller, consisting of thinly sliced shrooms, ricotta, pumpkin seeds, chilli, and soy truffle glaze. You've been warned though, it has quite the kick. The nduja with tenderstem broccoli and chilli and garlic oil is another classic, while the more creative orders include the spiced lamb, savoy cabbage and sumac yoghurt pizza, or the braised beef, beetroot and goat's cheese pizza.
The best thing about Homeslice is you can opt for the half and half option and order two flavours, so there's no worry about getting food envy! And did we mention they're all 20 inches big?! Ideal for sharing.
To book a table, visit homeslice.co.uk
Head to Mayfair for this spicy feast
Manthan, meaning to churn and reflect, is Chef Rohit Ghai's amazing Mayfair-based restaurant, and dishes reflect his culinary experiences – both professional and personal – in kitchens all over the world as well as the street food markets he has frequented for over 20 years throughout India, and specifically in Delhi, Ultar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
The talented and passionate chef has drawn on these experiences to create a menu that represents his appreciation of both home-style cooking and expertly honed techniques. There is a selection of Ghai's Mother's signature dishes on the menu, including Chatpata (dishes that are spicy, tangy and flavourful) Tikkas and Chops and for the first time professionally Ghai is cooking his family's Aloo paratha with home made churned butter, a traditional Punjabi breakfast dish of bread stuffed with potato. These sharing plates sit alongside street food bar snacks - Gali ka khaana (street food) - such as Ram ladoo and Chaat.
Visit manthanmayfair.co.uk
Celebrate the opening of Delicious Pho
Canadian export Delicious Pho opened its doors in Spitalfields earlier this month, auspiciously at the start of the Lunar New Year. Serving authentic Vietnamese food, the menu is primarily focused on pho, with a whole range of broths to choose from, including beef, prawn, chicken and tofu. But if you aren't ready to tuck into a warming - and humungous - bowl of soup, you can also opt for curries, fried rice dishes and stir-fried noodles. For starters, there's a bunch of fresh salads, chicken wings and summer rolls, as well as generous sharing platters.
When HELLO! visited during opening week, the alcoholic drinks menu wasn't quite ready apart from a couple of beers to choose from, but there's an abundance of smoothies and bubble teas to try. Delicious Pho was also handing out lucky red envelopes to diners at the end of their meal, with prizes including a free drink, starter, dessert or 50% off your meal.
For more information, visit deliciouspho.co.uk
Enjoy a vibrant Flower Burger at Bluebird White City
This February, Bluebird White City will be welcoming a new splash of colour to their menu with an exclusive collaboration from the iconic rainbow plant-based burger concept – Flower Burger. As part of Veganuary and beyond, Bluebird is committed to supporting sustainability within its menu by offering more plant-based options this February. The colourful and earthy plant-based creations from the leading vegan fast-food chain will take centre stage for a limited time only with two vibrant burger options to choose from - the 'Flower Burger' and the special edition 'Earth Burger’.
To book, visit bluebirdcafe.co.uk
Dine on fine Indian food at Farzi Cafe
London is teeming with Indian eateries and curry houses, but for fine quality fare, a trip to Farzi Cafe is an absolute must. Just a stone's throw away from Picadilly Circus, the restaurant oozes elegance and screams chic as soon as you walk in. Another detail you'll immediately notice is the fragrant aroma of spices and exotic flavours in the air. When HELLO! visited, we were treated to the Silver Set menu, which is designed for the table to share. Offering a balanced range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, the menu comprises small plates, mains, sides and dessert. It'll be a struggle to get through it all as the portions are generous in size, but there's a beautiful variety of dishes to sample.
Stand-outs include the Zaffrani Murg Tikka - some of the most succulent chicken tikka skewers you will ever try, interestingly laced with coriander pesto. The fried prawns are also meaty and moreish, while the Koli Varuval (cumin and coriander chicken curry) was extremely tender. Mop up the sauce with the traditional side breads. You may not think you'll have space for anything else, but both desserts on the Silver Set menu were exceptional. The Fig and Ginger Pudding, which felt like the restaurant's take on sticky toffee pudding, is inventively served with a salted caramel foam, while the Coconut Rice Kheer, a version of rice pudding, was topped with fresh mango sorbet, lychee and passion fruit gel.
Farzi Cafe doesn't feel like your typical Indian restaurant; it's much more daring and creative with its flavours and pairings. It's well worth popping into for a refreshing approach to Indian cuisine.
To book a table, visit farzilondon.com
Check out Instagram hotspot Ave Mario
You've probably seen it all over your Instagram – and yes, Ave Mario does live up to the hype. The allure of the newest addition to the Big Mamma Group of restaurants (which includes the ever-popular Blame Gloria and Circolo Popolare) is undoubtedly the décor, and you can't leave without taking a selfie in the famous rainbow-hued toilets. Set over two floors and two gigantic terraces, the sumptuous restaurant is a sight to behold, with black and white striped walls, a beautiful art deco bar and funky neon signs, all inspired by an idyllic day in Florence.
Head Chef Andrea heads up the kitchen, rustling up delicious pizzas, giant carbonara ravioli and the most mouth-watering pasta dishes, served up on mismatched kitsch plates. You can't leave without trying the Dolci, including a showstopping 60cm tall Gelato Tower. Don't be put off by the waist list – trying to get a booking can be hard as it's so popular that dates are released at 7am exactly one month before. But the food is to die for and the service is incredible, so get booking before it's too late!
Book your visit at bigmammagroup.com/en/trattorias/ave-mario
Enjoy a decadent bottomless brunch at CoqBull
London’s favourite all day dining chicken and burger restaurant has unveiled a finger-licking bottomless brunch, welcoming guests to dine for £35 each and enjoy 90 minutes of bottomless prosecco, CoqBull Lager (yep, even an option for the beer lovers!), or mocktails. Coqbull serves up a choice of mouthwatering dishes including the mighty Hangover Bull; double stack beef, American cheese, maple-glazed bacon, free-range fried egg, jalapenos, habanero mayo, lettuce, tomato, onion and fries or the Hot Coq Waffle; southern fried coq, maple glazed bacon, free range fried egg, hot coq sauce and ranch sauce all atop a fluffy waffle. For a meat-free option, enjoy CoqBull’s vegan Pulled Like a Piggy; spiced BBQ pulled jackfruit, smoked vegan cheese and fries all served on a brioche sesame and poppy seed bun. And for those with a sweet tooth, enjoy a CoqBull classic, Kinder Waffle, made with Kinder Bueno, ice cream, chocolate sauce and toasted hazelnuts.
Bottomless Brunch at CoqBull is served every Saturday from 12pm to 4pm at Spitalfields and Soho and is available to book now for £35 per person via: coqbull.co.uk
Experience the best pizza in town
Happy Face Pizza is now open in Victoria, meaning its signature pizzas are now available in Eccleston Yards! With bookings and walk-ins available, this is the perfect place to unwind and relax. With light and fluffy crust and the best dough we’ve ever tasted, these pizzas are something special - just make sure you save enough room for some delicious ice cream or Nutella pizza for dessert.
To find out more, visit happyface.pizza
Enjoy a romantic rooftop meal
Treehouse London is hosting an array of romantic experiences in the run-up to Valentine's Day. Mexican restaurant Madera at Treehouse will be featuring an exclusive menu inspired by the flower of the season, introducing Roses and Rosé. The venue will be fully embellished with roses, transporting guests into a beautiful hideaway - setting the perfect mood, followed by a crisp glass of Rosé and a delightful dinner.
Menu highlights include a seafood trio including oysters to get you in the mood and crispy fried cod tacos. Take your date to the next level by heading one floor up for a post-dinner drink at The Nest, the venue's rooftop bar. The Nest is offering an unforgettable Champagne tasting with Ruinart Champagne, which you can sip whilst admiring the gorgeous 360-degree views with your loved one.
Book your table at treehousehotels.com/london/eat-drink/madera
Treat your loved one with an afternoon tea
Play Cupid and woo your loved ones with a romance-inspired afternoon tea available in the stylish and tranquil surrounds of Podium Restaurant and Bar at London Hilton on Park Lane. Sweet treats include a White Chocolate and Coconut Sphere, a Chocolate Choux Bun, a Strawberry and Passion Dome and Chocolate Cherries to share (just remember not to squabble over your favourites!). The tea is also accompanied with freshly baked plain, fruit and chocolate chip scones adorned with strawberry jam, clotted cream and salted caramel spread, all complemented with a selection of organic Hope and Glory teas. Located in the heart of Mayfair, London Hilton on Park Lane is an elegant and iconic destination to visit at any time of year - and is also moments away from Oxford Street, so put in a few hints for your Valentine's Day gift perhaps?
The Valentine's afternoon tea is priced at £32 per adult. Upgrade to a Champagne Afternoon Tea to make your afternoon sparkle for £42 per adult.
For more information visit podiumrestaurant.com or call 020 7208 4022 to make a reservation.
Tuck into an authentic Alpine feast
Craving an Alpine feast, but can't escape to the mountains any time soon? Don't worry, Côte restaurants have got you covered. Côte's seasonal Alpine Menu is packed with classic French dishes, including the ultimate winter warmer – Tartiflette. Layers of sliced potatoes topped with gooey Comté cheese and melted farmhouse Reblochon melt in your mouth, served with baguette, cornichons and a green salad. The popular chain has also got a vegan alternative of the Tartiflette, so there's something for everyone.
It's hard to find good Alpine food in London (trust us, we've tried), but Côte's Alpine menu brings you all the goods including Crottin de Chèvre (baked goats cheese with apple and walnut) and Tarte Tatin with caramel sauce and Chantilly cream.
Côte's special Tartiflette dish is available until the end of March. Book your table at cote.co.uk
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