Londoners, is it too early to say spring has officially sprung? With an array of exciting new restaurant openings, thrilling events and an exciting list of pop ups coming to the city this March, it certainly feels like it has!
If your social schedule is feeling a little dry, consider HELLO!'s guide as the ultimate inspiration of things to do in London for your month ahead.
From snapping the beautiful pink blossoms blooming across London for your Instagram, to enjoying a romantic river cruise down the Thames, here is our ultimate guide to kicking off the start of spring in the city.
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Best restaurants to visit in London in March 2024
From Michelin-star delights to affordable jaunts, discover where HELLO! has been dining - and loving - this March.
Experience a taste of Hanoi at Six by Nico
Six by Nico is one of London's most loved rotating restaurants. Every six weeks, a fixed-price, six-course set menu of expertly crafted dishes promises take diners on a culinary expedition through a new themed menu; inspired by people, places and memories.
I've been lucky enough to get a table at Six by Nico a handful of times over the years, and each experience is so unique it never feels like you're in the same restaurant. The service is always unmatched, with servers always keen to paint a culinary picture before each dish is presented. (It's worth paying the £35 upgrade just to experience the sommeliers' enthusiasm).
If you find yourself at Six by Nico between now and 7th April, you'll be transported to Vietnam as Nico Simeone has woven together a story of Hanoi through a six course tasting experience. Expect spiced pork ragu, fiery coal fish and coconut curry, tamarind glazed chicken, vibrant tempura prawns served with zingy pineapple, and a palm sugar 'Bánh Trôi Tàu' for dessert. I spent three weeks in Hanoi when I was backpacking before university, and I'll never forget its bustling atmosphere, welcoming culture and unmatched street food. This six course menu encapsulates the vibrant flavours of Hanoi, transporting you to South East Asia in six delightful dishes.
'Hanoi' is being cooked at Canary Wharf and Fitrzovia restaurants until 7 April.
Reviewed by Georgia Brown, Senior Lifestyle & Fashion Writer
Enjoy the Six Nations at The Cadogan Arms
If you're heading to a pub to watch the Six Nations over the next few weekends, make it The Cadogan Arms in Chelsea. With its luxe dark interiors, it perfectly mixes sophistication with cosiness and comfort. But the best bit? The divine menu, that's been specially created to be enjoyed while watching the rugby tournament.
We shared the Classic Snack Platter to start, which was full of pub favourites with an Asian twist. We're talking Lamb Ribs, Red Curry Pork Scratchings and possibly the best Black Pudding Scotch Egg I've ever tried. For my main I had the Beef & Guinness pie with mash and creamed spinach, which was perfection. All washed down with a pint or two of Guinness, let's just say you won't go hungry.
Big sports fans can also head to The Cadogan Arms early on 9 March, as there will be a breakfast panel with rugby legends Ugo Monye, Anthony Watson and Tommy Bowe. Guests will get first-hand Six Nations commentary and hear stories and predictions while enjoying a Full English (or Full Irish), before the games begin at 4:45pm.
Reviewed by Hollie Brotherton, Lifestyle & Commerce Senior Writer
Experience Chinese delights at YiQi
I love trying new places and often crave spicy food, so when the invite to Chinatown's newest restaurant landed in my inbox, I could not refuse. YiQi is a Pan-Asian restaurant that was created by former Hakkasan chef Lum Wah Cheok. The menu pays homage to cuisine from across East and Southeast Asia. From fragranced Southeast Asian delicacies to comforting regional Chinese favourites, Korean classics, and Japanese art-like dishes, there was so much to choose from.
I was left rather impressed with so many dishes the fried prawn fitters, the nyonya pandan chicken and skate fish with yuzu and a chilli sauce, which was all served alongside a unique dessert of 'wagyu' mousse.
Despite the higher prices compared to other Chinatown restaurants, the venue offers value for money through its unique combination of food and cosy ambience. There's no doubt that YiQi will draw in crowds with its superb menu. Not only can I applaud this restaurant for its delicious food but also for its excellent service and appealing cocktails.
Reviewed by Sharnaz Shahid, Deputy Online Editor
Go waffle-crazy at Duck & Waffle
I'd been craving waffles since my holiday back in February, thank god for breakfast buffets, right? So when I heard that Duck & Waffle's Waffle week was back, I booked quicker than the blink of an eye.
Here I opted for the savoury Mascarpone & Wild Garlic Pesto Waffle with balsamic vinegar, roasted grapes, and a dusting of dukkah - and it did not disappoint.
There are many more options on the menu, so my advice is to head to the restaurant, which offers incredible views of London, with quite an empty stomach.
Reviewed by Andrea Caamano, Website Editor.
Celebrate Holi festival with colourful dumplings
This year, Holi, the Hindu festival of colours, falls on Monday 25 March. And to mark the fun celebration, Indo-Chinese restaurant Fatt Pundit has gone all out and turned their signature "momos" (steamed Nepalese dumplings) into a brightly coloured dish. For one week only from the start of Holi until 29 March, diners who order the dumplings will be treated to these limited edition momos which have been coloured through the use of beetroot, spinach, and saffron. I had a sneak preview of them when I visited the Covent Garden branch and I can attest, they're as tasty as they sound and look. For £9, the plate of four dumplings consist of a beef, chicken, goat, and vegetable option.
But don't just go to Fatt Pundit for this Instagram-friendly dish. If you haven't been before, it should be top of your bucket list, stat. The menu offers a fusion of Indian and Chinese cuisine, which on paper may not be the most likely combination, but trust me, it really works. Combining traditional Chinese cooking techniques with the spices of India, Indo Chinese is actually an integral part of modern-day Indian cuisine.
The menu is designed for sharing but the plates aren't small in the slightest. They're a decent size, packed with flavour, and not one single dish disappointed. I would have happily ordered it all again.
Start off with the Holi-themed dumplings then move on to the crackling spinach, a beautiful mix of salted crispy spinach with a sweet yoghurt, date, and plum sauce. I don't normally go for vegan dishes but the Bombay chilli mock chicken peppered with Szechuan chilli was a standout order. For mains or slightly heavier plates, the lamb chops in masala rub, absolutely charred to perfection, were a no-brainer, as was the tiger prawn Malabar curry, which came as two meaty chunks of prawn dunked in a rich coconut and saffron butter sauce. We didn't have room for dessert, but I was assured the brownie was a winner. We'll just have to go back again to try it.
Reviewed by Ainhoa Barcelona, Content Managing Editor
Awaken your tastebuds at Sticks’n’Sushi
With an impressive menu offering, Sticks’n’Sushi is a solid favourite of foodies, boasting a dual Japanese-Danish cuisine.
If you’re a fan of maki rolls and sashimi, then you’re in for a big treat, as the restaurants have everything from shake tataki and black cod house rolls, to the classic California makis and yellowtail kingfish hiramasa.
If, like me, you’re often overwhelmed with what to order, you can opt for one of the set menus - I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.
Plus, on Mother’s Day, you’ll receive a limited-edition complimentary sweet treat, dubbed Chokoretos, to share with the special person in your life.
Reviewed by Arianna Chatzidakis, Creative Content Director
Indulge in the new menu at Bingham Riverhouse restaurant
Whenever I go back to the UK I love spending time in my neighbourhood, Richmond, and Bingham Riverhouse is one of the places I always make time to go back and visit.
I was all the more excited to try out their very new restaurant, Riverhouse Restaurant, which has taken over from Steven Edwards' fine-dining menu, opting for a more "relaxed and approachable atmosphere".
I even met the executive chef, Vanessa Marx, who is enthusiastic and passionate about every dish of food on the new menu - all with sustainability in mind.
My favourite by far (and something I will go back to eat more of next time I visit England) was the Beetroot Gnocchi with parmesan. What's also nice is as a vegetarian, there were a huge range of options available that were far more creative and exciting than the usual halloumi salad or goats cheese and beetroot tart I've grown accustomed to being offered on the vegetarian menus. Lots of tasty sides, desserts (definitely try the cheese board and apple tart), and cocktails also make up the menu, all in the same cosy dining area that Bingham is so known for among locals and visitors alike.
Reviewed by Hanna Fillingham, US Managing Editor
Check Out the Mediterranean Menu at 42 Holborn
I met with a pal at the newly opened 42 Holborn for an after work catch up, and felt like I was in for a treat just from the interior. The restaurant is inside a Grade-II listed town hall which really set the scene, which paired with an interior of lush red curtains on deep blue painted walls felt very grand.
As is the custom of the Mediterranean, what better way to do things than to share a few small plates? My friend and I indulged in the garlic king prawns, padron peppers and the fried halloumi to start. As a huge halloumi fan I’m always keen to try a new twist on the classic dish, and the honey & pomegranate sauce was both daring and dazzling.
Dining with a pescetarian can be pesky at the best of times, but there was plenty on the menu for all - I went for the seabass and my friend went for the roast eggplant, both of which came steaming onto the table looking full of colour and with gorgeous flavours to match.
Reviewed by Elliot Newlands, Creative Video Lead
Discover the Hidden Gem of Dover Yard
Meeting a couple of friends for midweek drinks can be a tricky sell. Do people want a full on meal, a casual pub hangout, or cocktails? Stress in the WhatsApp group to no end. The answer is (and always will be) sharing plates from a bar menu. I hadn’t been to Dover Yard before but it was so cosy that I felt right at home: Earthy toned décor plus low chairs and booths, all glowing away under moody lighting.
The girls and I love a margarita, and thankfully Dover Yard boasts not one, not two, but three variations. Starting classic, then heading into spice territory before topping things off very boldly with a celery margarita. Especially on National Margarita Day, nothing hits quite like their Celery Tommy's Margarita does.
Such delights do require ballast, and the bar menu absolutely came through. We shared a little selection of fried chicken, a lobster roll, a burger and fries - Why have only one thing when you can share the lot? After three drinks, it was home time or a hangover, but Dover Yard is on my list of places to go which has something for everyone.
Reviewed by Elliot Newlands, Creative Video Lead
Dim Sum Delights at Novikov
Novikov really is a world of its own - or rather two. Split into two rooms, one Asian one Italian, these two menus are both towering on the limits of their respective cuisines. With a dress code of ‘smart and elegant’ and an interior to match, the food was up to stiff competition. I went with my colleague to try the new dim sum menu which is a lunchtime only deal and seemed a great way to sample the flavours of Novikov’s formidable menu.
With 16 different types of dim sum to choose from, we were initially stumped on what to go for. Opting for the 8 kinds of dim sum for £85, we went all out in order to try as much as we could manage.
Everything was incredible, but the highlights were the prawn money bags, the black cod dumplings and the scallop gyoza. Amazing. 8 kinds could have been a struggle but it was so good that we managed to send back 8 empty baskets. The lunch menu runs Monday to Friday, 12-4.
Reviewed by Elliot Newlands, Creative Video Lead
A Taste of Tuscany at Cantinetta Antinori
Located in the middle of Knightsbridge, Cantinetta Antinori will take you straight to the Tuscan capital of Florence through flavours and setting. Beautiful traditional Italian vibes let me know from the offset that I was in for an authentic treat.
I always say that the bread appetiser is the measure of a restaurant’s food, and the bread basket here was unforgettable. Artisanal breadsticks and charcoal crackers turned something so simple and humble into more than just an appetiser. Followed by a salami selection to pick at which was also lovely (I was a huge fan of the fennel salami).
But of course, it had to be pasta for main. The lobster linguine is a boujee investment but I have to say, was one of the best pastas I’ve ever had. Bold lobster flavours heightened with a bisque was simply an incredible experience. Though my tastebuds didn’t want to let go of the lobster, a tiramisu (made fresh at the table) was the perfect way to top things off.
Reviewed by Elliot Newlands, Creative Video Lead
The Freshest Fish at Faber
London isn’t the closest place to the sea in the UK, but Faber bridges that gap. I went for dinner and fell in love with the sustainable efforts. All ingredients are sourced from coastal towns around the UK, sustainably sourced, and comes with a story to tell.
I always love a small plate style restaurant, so sharing 8 plates to start was an absolute job. Witnessing my friend’s first ever oyster (which was a success) was a delight as was the butterflied mackerel. We both agreed the clear winner was the monkfish skewers but as everything is brought in fresh that day, the menu is constantly changing as is the specials board.
Hearing exactly where the specials had come from gave our mains quite the dramatic entrance, which the fish really lived up to. The chalkstream trout was sensational and had me feeling like I was right on the coast - Though that might have also been the ‘grog’ rum cocktail.
Faber is putting on a special Mother’s Day menu at just £50 per person and features some real delights - If your mum is an oceanic aficionado this might be the perfect place to take her to eat in London.
Reviewed by Elliot Newlands, Creative Video Lead
Wine and dine at Humble Grape
Both a wine bar and a wine shop, at Humble Grape there are over 450 delicious, organic and sustainably-made wines from around the world on offer. There's an equally impressive food menu too, which has the same ethos of sustainability, and each wine waiter is also a sommelier who can suggest the perfect pairings.
There are several Humble Grapes dotted around London, and my local in Battersea is one of my favourite date night spots thanks to its cosy vibe, with dim lighting and rustic interiors. Plus, despite being busy, the service really is faultless. They're friendly and informative without being overly attentive, and I've always loved their wine suggestions, which takes away the task of choosing one.
Dishes range from from their popular charcuterie boards and baked camemberts, to mains like melt in the mouth cote de boeuf with all the trimmings. We tried a selection of the most amazing small plates, which included crispy cauliflower with lime aioli and chilli ketchup, creamy burrata with salsify crisps, and venison tataki blueberry with radish, soy, ginger.
If you're looking for a Sunday lunch spot this Mother's Day, Humble Grape also does an epic roast with wine pairings. Book a table for four or more at Battersea, Crouch End, Canary Wharf or Islington and you'll even receive £35 towards a bottle of wine.
Reviewed by Hollie Brotherton, Lifestyle & Commerce Senior Writer
Try London Marriott Hotel Park Lane's brand new Breakfast & Bubbles in Bed
Normally when staying at a hotel you're expected to get dressed and go downstairs to the restaurant for breakfast. However this March Five-star luxury Mayfair Hotel Marriott has launched an exciting new package which allows guests to enjoy one of life's simple pleasures - breakfast in bed!
Earlier this month I had the opportunity to try the breakfast out for myself to see what all the fuss was about, it's safe to say I wasn't quite prepared for the impressive menu of breakfast classics. I was feasting like a royal with delicious appetisers including; prawn and lobster croquettes with sunny side up eggs with truffle aioli and parmesan, to freshly baked pastries and a heavenly stack of soufflé pancakes with crème fraiche, seasonal berries and maple syrup.
And if that wasn't enough this is all served alongside an unlimited pour of the finest English sparkling wine for 90 minutes. But if like me and the bubbles might be going to your head in the morning, non-alcoholic prosecco, tea, coffee and refreshing juices are also available.
If you're looking for a gift, a luxury escape or celebrating a special occasion this is an indulgent treat you can't miss out on. Bed, Breakfast & Bubbles is priced at £120 per person and is available as an add-on for those staying overnight.
Reviewed by Lauren Connolly, Senior Digital Designer
Tuck into a taste of Portugal at Bar Douro
Tucked away from the bustling streets of central London is the hidden gem that is Bar Douro, which brings the best of Portugal to Bankside's Flat Iron Square.
Warm and intimate is how I'd described the atmosphere at the restaurant, which features interiors inspired by traditional Portuguese tiles and the street signs of Porto.
We kicked off our evening with a sparkling wine featured on the evening's specialist list and recommended by our knowledgeable waiter. If I hadn't wanted to try one of the white wines from their extensive menu, I would have sipped on the Campolargo rosé all evening – it was delightful. We then moved on to the Quinta das Bageiras Colheita, which was the perfect blend of sweet and dry.
It's clear Bar Douro founder Max Graham knows what he's doing when it comes to fine wine, and even offers a Meet the Makers wine series, with monthly tastings and dinners.
The restaurant is known for its small plates, so we chose an array of delicious-sounding dishes and they certainly didn't disappoint.
We started off with the crab, which was light and packed with flavour before moving on to the sausage croquettes, salt cod hash, and onglet steak, accompanied with garlic punched potatoes.
Although it's hard to pick a favourite, with all the dishes exceptionally tasty, the winning plate was the garlic prawns. Succulent and juicy with a flavourful sauce that we mopped up with the light and fluffy sourdough bread - my mouth is watering even thinking about it now.
Eating at Bar Douro is a must when in central London and I'll definitely be paying another visit.
To book a table visit www.bardouro.co.uk. Plus, find out more about their newly launched supper club in collaboration with Talho do Mar.
Reviewed by Nicky Morris, Senior TV and Film writer.
Celebrate Nowruz at Tandis restaurant
Nowruz falls on 20th March this year, which is the most important festival of the year in Iran and celebrates the first day of Spring, so what better time to try a Persian restaurant than now?
My Persian friend recommended Tandis on Finchley Road as an authentic spot that her family loves, so of course I jumped at the chance of joining her.
As I was lucky enough to have her far more experienced palate order for us, and I recommend you take note of these, we went for: Koobideh (minced lamb skewers), Barg (lamb fillet with rice and tomato), Joojeh (grilled chicken), Tahdig (a traditional dish of caramelised saffron rice - make sure you try), Fesenjan (chicken and walnut stew), and Soup Jo (don't be put off by the humble barley soup description, it was one of my all-time favourites!). Each dish was hearty and came with salads or rice, but definitely aim to go with a group so you can experience a few, especially if you're new to Persian cuisine.
I'm not sure how I made it to pudding as the mains were so filling, but the rose water ice cream was the perfect delicate end. The service was wonderful and the restaurant itself was lovely - relaxed enough for our early week booking but looked like a wonderful date spot too. I'm so thrilled my friend took me, so definitely grab a pal and try, too!
Reviewed by Anna Johnstone, Head of Social
Feast on authentic Tuscan cuisine at Il Borro
Authentic Tuscan cuisine is at the heart of Il Borro's latest 'Tuscan Trails' immersive, sensory menu in collaboration with fragrance brand Dr. Vranjes Firenze. Until the end of March, the elegant Mayfair trattoria is offering diners a unique tasting experience brimming with hearty Italian dishes inspired by Dr. Vranjes' gourmand fragrance notes.
The menu kicks off with a generous helping of venison carpaccio topped with cubes of parmesan marshmallow, which may or may not divide diners, springs of crunchy lettuce and splashes of blackberry compote for added zing. Accompanying the dish is a refreshing Rosso Nobile cocktail laced with gin, vin santo, fresh watermelon and lemon cordial soda.
For the first course, we're treated to a comforting bowl of saffron risotto topped with perfectly seared scallops. The rice is beautifully al dente and the glazed scallops seemingly melt in the mouth. Bliss. Washing down the dish is a Mirra Zafferano cocktail - a bitter concoction crafted from vecchia Romagna, fioretto di Firenze liqueur, china clementi amaro, lemon cordial and cardamom bitter.
Our main course of duck breast, liver cream and cognac and apricot compote is a generous offering, though an extra serving of the accompanying spinach/chard wouldn't have gone amiss.
Rounding off the menu is a jasmine and rose bavarese served with lychee gel and topped with delicate meringue petals. The flavours are delicate, and aesthetically, it's a delight. The final dish is paired with a punchy ginger lime cocktail which does well to offset the pudding's subtle floral aromas.
As for the restaurant itself, Il Borro is a sleek establishment spanning two floors with a resident DJ on the ground floor pumping out recognisable classics. Meanwhile on the first floor, creamy-hued interiors and soft lighting fuse to create a gloriously calm space.
To book, visit: ilborrotuscanbistro.co.uk
Reviewed by Phoebe Tatham, News & Features Writer
Le Petit Chef has become an international affair, with 64 locations worldwide. But does it live up to the hype? I was lucky enough to try the London Cabaret Club's family-friendly experience, an interactive show where a little chef is - quite literally - projected onto your plate as he rustles up a five-course menu in front of your very eyes. Their tagline 'The World’s Smallest Chef is Preparing for Your Next Big Meal' says it all, and I was impressed by the cutting-edge 3D projection mapping
Le Petit Chef magically comes to life, suffering Tom and Jerry levels of slip-ups as he plates up each course. The animation displayed on the tablecloth and across your dinner plate before every course is brilliantly thought out – and I particularly enjoyed the little chef wrestling with a pesky garden mole as he attempted to serve up a salad. There were plenty of young children at my sitting, adding to the atmosphere as they giggled hysterically, oohing and ahhing over the miniature cook's hapless antics.
I sampled le Petit Chef Classic menu, comprising of a Burrata Salad, flavourful Bouillabaisse soup with crusty bread, moreish Lobster Risotto, tender Hereford Beef, and Vanilla Crème Brûlée with sorbet. Each plate was perfectly portioned and richly flavoured, although I would say the £110 menu price point is geared towards the general experience rather than the food itself. There is also a veggie offering and a children's menu, so all tastes are covered.
The singing waiter was an additional fun touch and, spurred on by the joyful atmosphere, we left our sitting grinning from ear to ear. The midweek crowd was very much tourist and family skewed and while it was lovely to see the joy on the kids' faces, I'm sure the vibe would be buzzier on a Friday night, with a show to follow at the swanky subterranean London Cabaret Club.
Reviewed by Kate Thomas, Lifestyle Managing Editor
Celebrate Easter with a special twist
Inspired by the famous Charlie and the Chocolate Factory story, London restaurant Bagatelle will take guests on an unforgettable journey this Easter, transforming the venue into a whimsical wonderland.
Diners will get to indulge in culinary marvels and mysteries, in an Instagram-worthy setting. Taking place between Sunday 31st March to Sunday 7th April, the unique offering will also see diners handed out five Wonka inspired chocolate bars, for their exciting chance to win a golden ticket and the chance to win a dinner for four with accompanying drinks.
If you plan on visiting on Easter Sunday, we recommend opting for the unique roast menu, in particular the Hereford duck crown with dark chocolate spiced sauce!
Reviewed by Arianna Chatzidakis, Creative Content Director
Best things to do in London in March 2024
Be it a beautiful new exhibition or a thrilling night at VR axe-throwing, HELLO!'s team is always on the look out for the best new things to try in London each month.
Level up your movie night at the Everyman
I'm a sucker for a cinema date, but after my first experience at an Everyman I can't see myself ever wanting to spend movie night anywhere else.
It’s safe to say the Everyman chain of boutique picture houses have changed the cinema scene in the capital. With several locations across the city, you’ll find plush, reclining armchairs, delicious food, bespoke cocktail menus and a cool and cosy vibe in each.
I went to watch Dune Part II at the Everyman Canary Wharf and the experience was unmatched. Before the film began we had salted popcorn and oreo milkshakes delivered to our seats, while others around us tucked into nachos and cocktails, hot dogs and mouthwatering burgers. The cosy velvet loveseat was big enough for two and the slightly sloped seating meant that even the back row had an undisturbed view of the screen.
The Everyman is elegant, electric and promises to level up your move night. This is cinema, but make it chic.
Reviewed by Georgia Brown, Senior Lifestyle & Fashion Writer
Burst with excitement at the balloon museum
The balloon museum landed in the UK back in December last year; and I saw so many people share incredible photographs of the exhibition on Instagram. I had major envy and knew it was something my two young children would enjoy and just had to visit ASAP.
The exhibition is in collaboration with EmotionAir, and is one of those rare things that appeals to both children AND adults. It features twenty internationally acclaimed artists in the Old Billingsgate space - a ten minute walk from London Cannon Street station. It’s been SO popular, that it’s easy to see why it’s been extended until mid April.
I was mesmerised by the super bright, vibrant, oversized installations that featured so many zany shades and were vast in size. A riot of colour; I have truly never seen anything quite like it in my life.
The highlight was of course, the biggest ball pit you will ever see. It was so deep I genuinely felt like we were all swimming! My son was very upset when we left, which is definitely a sign of a great day out.
You can just turn up, but pre-booking tickets is strongly advised due to due popularity.
You can reserve them at balloonmuseum.world/tickets-london
Reviwed by Laura Sutcliffe, Fashion & Beauty News Editor
Dine and dance the night away at Lio London
This all-singing, all-dancing dining experience has already hit headlines in Ibiza and Mykonos, and since arriving in London, has become a big hit with partygoers.
The venue offers a show-dining experience, featuring artists, acrobats and dancers who perform whilst you tuck into tasty Mediterranean dishes. Packages start from £100, and grant you access to the afterparty, as the venue transforms into a nightclub until late. Worth noting is that attendees get very dressed up, so don your best outfit!
Plus, if you plan on attending on 14 March, you’ll be treated to a special 1920s theme, to celebrate the 100 year anniversary of the former Café de Paris, in which Lio London is now based at.
To book, visit liolondon.co.uk
Reviewed by Arianna Chatzidakis, Creative Content Director
Be serenaded by the singing waiters at Piano Works
If you're a fan of live music venue Piano Works, you'll be glad to hear that a new branch has recently opened in the heart of Covent Garden. In true Piano Works style, their West End haunt features their much-loved singing waiters, who, from Tuesdays to Saturdays between 5:30pm and 8.30pm, serenade diners right at their table with their favourite songs. They're professionally trained performers so expect high standards!
And when it's time for the singing waiters to clock off, the live band takes over, ready to play more of your requests all night long.
As well as a classic cocktail menu, the food on offer includes signature dishes like herbed rare tuna steak and free-range, corn-fed chicken supreme, as well as creamy burrata and feta, watermelon, and roasted pepper salad.
There's no need to book the singing waiter sessions; simply turn up and enjoy the live music.
Top tip: happy hour runs between 5pm and 7pm with half-price cocktails, while the early dinner menu gets you two courses for just £24, on Tuesdays to Fridays, 5 to 6pm. We know where we'll be booking our next team night out!
The whole family will burst with excitement at Bubble Plannet
I had no idea what to expect from Bubble Planet when I headed down there with my two children and their friends on a Saturday afternoon – but to say we all had the time of our lives would probably be an understatement.
I am normally prepared for big crowds and endless queuing but there was none of that here. I felt it was well-managed and it really didn’t feel busy, even though we went at lunch time.
There are many rooms in this installation, and all very different and equally fun. The highlight for adults and children was the ball pit, but the final room, where you get to be inside a real bubble, was also a top experience.
It’s so well managed that despite finishing the course, the children were still happy as the entrance area has some great activities like sketching and a mini ball pit – and a free sample of ice cream! Definitely worth a visit.
Reviewed by Andrea Caamano, Website Editor
Take part in a baking workshop at Bread Ahead
You may have seen the never-ending queues outside Bread Ahead at Borough Market and tried their outstanding selection of sweet treats (pistachio doughnut anyone?) But did you know the much-loved bakery also hosts workshops?
This month, I had the pleasure of experiencing their Greek Baking Workshop. It was a very wholesome, fun, and novel way to start the weekend, although classes do run throughout the week at their original Borough Market space, as well as their stores in Chelsea and Wembley.
During the three-hour intimate workshop, I learnt how to make a rustic olive bread loaf, classic Greek seeded bread rings, and the most delicious honey cake. If you're someone like me who has very little home-baking experience, there's no need to worry. The classes are tailored for beginners, with teachers giving the most easy-to-follow instructions, so there isn't really a chance to mess up. We were also treated to pastries, tea, and coffee on arrival, plus Bread Ahead's famous and signature chocolate doughnuts in the break.
The workshop costs £95 per person, so it is a lot of money to part with, but you're learning a new skill and get to make and take home a range of baked goods you probably haven't tried before, let alone dared to make.
And if Greek Baking doesn't sound like your cup of tea, there are over 40 different themed workshops to choose from, including Scandinavian Baking and Japanese Baking. In the past, I've also tried the Doughnut Workshop and the Complete French Baking course, both of which I can highly recommend. I was given them for my Christmas and birthday presents, and would definitely consider gifting a workshop to loved ones in the future. Just make sure to book ahead as the classes do sell out very quickly!
To book a workshop, visit breadahead.com
Reviewed by Ainhoa Barcelona, Content Managing Editor