London truly blossoms in the summer. Soon, there will be punters spilling out of riverside pubs on balmy Thursday evenings, parks will play host to weekend picnics and open-air activities will overtake cosy fireside plans.
There is lots to look forward to in the city in May 2024. With two bank holidays set to receive soaring temperatures and glorious sunshine, the Affordable Art Fair pitching up in Hampstead from 8 -12 May, and the Urban Village Fete bringing street food, live music and craft workshops to North Greenwich, London is gearing up for a jam-packed month of May.
From the restaurants we've been loving to the activities we won't be missing, here is everything HELLO! recommends for a marvellous May.
Best restaurants to visit in London in May
Whether you're a foodie on a budget or a culinary aficionado with a penchant for fine dining, here is everything HELLO! has been dining out on in May to inspire your next meal out.
Lucky Cat by Gordon Ramsay is London's most elevated brunch
I had high expectations for Lucky Cat, Gordon Ramsay's swanky pan-Asian and robata grill restaurant in London's affluent Mayfair.
When I dined on a sunny Saturday afternoon, I opted for the new brunch offering, which is available on weekends and bank holidays. As soon as I stepped into the dimly lit, buzzy restaurant reminiscent of the 1930’s Tokyo kissas and Shanghai’s drinking dens, I knew this was going to be a high contender for the most elevated brunch experience I've had in London.
Expect to start with an omakase sushi selection, which is exceptionally presented and deliciously light. If you're an adventurous foodie, the brunch is then followed by beetroot and umeboshi and tomato and strawberry with tofu cream canapes. The unique flavours were vibrant and light, though admittedly not my favourite.
The brunch truly shines on the third course, where moreish ‘GFC’ fried chicken, bao buns and mushroom tempura promise divine flavours. If you're not already full, two more courses follow, of which we shared the succulent baby chicken teriyaki asian chimichurri and light tom kha pumpkin glass noodles.
It wasn't until the dessert arrived that I was truly blown away - it almost looked like art. The 'Lucky' matcha and raspberry iced lollipops were a true highlight.
Available Saturdays between 11am and 4pm for £95 per person. To book, visit www.gordonramsayrestaurants.com/lucky-cat/
Reviewed by Georgia Brown, Senior Lifestyle & Fashion Writer
Experience culinary genius at Galvin La Chapelle in Bishopsgate
Chris and Jeff Galvin have been at the helm of British cuisine steering it to wondrous places for more than two decades. With their eponymous offering, Galvin at Windows perched amidst the top floor of the Park Lane Hilton, it’s a restaurant I truly treasure for imparting some wonderful culinary memories.
I had high expectations of dining at another Galvin locale, La Chapelle. Sitting resplendent amid the suited city workers and revellers of Bishopsgate and once a grade two listed former school, its imposing nature is quickly banished as you enter. The high exposed beams of the illustrious ceiling ensure the cacophony of happy dinners bounce from every wall enveloping you in a heady atmosphere.
Dining at La Chapelle will whisk you away to heavenly vistas. The tasting menu with wine pairings gleefully brought to us by our wonderful sommelier Francesco was truly a joyful adventure. The Foie gras and ham hock semifreddo was the highlight, the beautifully decorated green sphere of godly goodness parting easily under the gentle push of a fork to reveal the sumptuous pink flakes lurking inside. Also of note was a perfect cylinder of Cornish cod doused in a dashi ‘beurre blanc’. There were perfect mouthfuls on every bite and I wish I had ordered bread to mop up the buttery liquor.
One issue we encountered was a wait time for the dessert. On flagging this with our attentive server, however, they immediately brought my dessert over with a candle, a smile and a Happy Birthday wish. Guilt ensued not long after I realised that was why we waited a little longer than anticipated. It also looks like I don’t have to start saving again for our next visit - they also do a phenomenal and reasonably priced Sunday lunch too.
5 course tasting menu costs £125. Add selected Sommelier wine pairing for £75 or a Great Classic wine pairing for £130. To book, visit Galvin La Chapelle.
© Milo BrownEnjoy the most luxurious afternoon tea at Dalloway Terrace
The arrival of spring means it's Afternoon Tea season, and you'd be hard pressed to find one more luxurious than this year's offering from Dalloway Terrace.
It begins with a glass of champagne, before you choose from a huge selection of teas, with recommendations from the very friendly servers who have an impressive knowledge and will make suggestions slightly out of your comfort zone - I would always choose English Breakfast but was recommended the Verbena, and it was incredible.
The food is equally delicious and they have the ability to make an average classic taste Michelin-worthy. Exhibit A: the truffled egg sandwich. The warm Irish cheddar scones with leek butter were also a surprising highlight, but it's stacked high with a whole selection of finger sandwiches and fluffy scones. If you have room for dessert, there are plenty of sweet treats from eclairs to tarts and cakes, too.
The terrace itself is so beautiful. It's redesigned every season and currently full of bright yellow mimosa flowers intertwined with fresh, seasonal green foliage. It's totally serene considering it's just steps away from London's bustling Oxford Street.
Prepared and served fresh daily, Afternoon Tea is available from 1-4pm for £48 per person. Champagne Afternoon Tea, which includes a glass of Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve is £65 per person.
Reviewed by Hollie Brotherton, HELLO!'s Lifestyle & Commerce Senior Writer
© GIULIA VERDINELLIA dolce meal at La Mia Mamma in King's Road
Nestled on the vibrant King's Road, La Mia Mamma is a delightful Italian restaurant that promises a truly authentic culinary experience.
The magic of La Mia Mamma lies in its unique concept: rotating "mammas" from various Italian regions take turns in the kitchen, crafting menus that reflect their local specialties – making sure diners, like me, enjoy the most authentic Italian dishes possible.
My partner and I were treated to a warm welcome from the moment we stepped in, and the ‘mamma’ who was on hand kept a close eye on us, making sure we felt right at home. We opted for a set menu that featured a welcome drink, antipasti to share and a main, great value for money - their famed Bigoli Cacio e Pepe was a highlight!
The portions are generous, so much so, that we had to take part of it home – I can confirm the food takes just as good the following day!
Overall, this cosy eatery is a slice of Italy in the heart of Chelsea.
Reviewed by Andrea Caamano, Website Editor
© Linda HermansDine at chic café Apple Butter
As much as it's great to have that grand night out in the swankiest restaurant, sometimes you want a more relaxing meal in the chicest café. Paris might be famous for its cafés, but London is fast catching up and Apple Butter in Langham Place adds to its prestige.
The first thing you'll notice upon entering the area is the beautiful apple tree with hand-painted apples in the centre, adding a touch of character to the venue. And, of course, apples are all over the menu, whether it's in the salads, the desserts or the brunch items.
While Apple Butter can cater for all times of the day, it's the brunch menu you'll want to try. I can vouch that the eggs florentine are to die for. With both a hollandaise and beetroot sauce, this was the most unique version of the dish I've enjoyed and the signature salad was a welcome addition to the proceedings. I also couldn't help but love the vanilla cheesecake, even if it proved to be a towering dessert.
The café is already becoming quite popular and it was fairly full when I arrived, so don't be surprised if there are long waiting times for your food.
Feast among florals at Sticks 'n'Sushi
Step into Summer (finally!) at Sticks'n'Sushi on Kings Road for a feast to remember. From Monday 20 May to Sunday 26 May, the restaurant, which is famed for its delicious sushi and sashimi dishes (I'm a big fan of the Carpe Diem set menu), will transform into a floral oasis.
Beautiful installations featuring an Instagram-worthy Japanese fishing boat made from sustainable flowers and foliage will be set up outside the venue, and as part of the Chelsea in Bloom art show, the wider streets of Chelsea will be adorned with beautiful natural designs. I recommend taking a stroll around the area before or after your visit to Sticks'n'Sushi. It's the ultimate weekend day out!
Reviewed by Arianna Chatzidakis, Creative Content Director
Mildreds has London's most colourful vegan menu
London has a new vegan restaurant on the block! This month, Mildreds, the capital's beloved plant-based eatery has expanded into Victoria, offering Londoners an elevated vegan dining experience just a stone's throw away from the station.
There is something so special about every bite of Mildreds menu. When I dined on a bustling Friday evening, every table was full by 7pm and it only takes a glace at their colourful menu to understand why.
If you're spolit for choice, I highly recommend the Taste of Mildreds sharing feast which showcases the very best of the vibrant offerings. The taktouka whipped 'mascarpone' is deceptively good, as is the impossibly creamy salsa macha hummus that pairs perfectly with the pillowy pita. As a meat eater, I was stunned by the mojo verde chick+n skewers that promise a flavoursome bite with every moreish mouthful.
Reviewed by Georgia Brown, Senior Fashion & Lifestyle Writer
Treat yourself at Knightsbridge's iconic Sale e Pepe
This iconic Knightsbridge restaurant has attracted a wide range of A-listers since it first opened back in 1974, including the likes of Rod Stewart and Priscilla Presley – and it's not hard to see why.
Warm and intimate is how I'd describe the ambience of the cosy establishment, which has recently been renovated to emulate the classic designs of Milan's townhouses. Tucked away down a side street, Sale e Pepe is a welcome relief from the hustle and bustle of central London.
When we arrived at the restaurant, I was greeted by the friendly staff, who couldn't have been more attentive throughout the evening. After being shown to our table, we were soon treated to a delicious glass of Chardonnay from Umbria in Italy, which was quickly followed by an outstanding course of starters. We demolished the burrata, which is shipped in from Italy especially, as well as the warm red prawns and smoked salmon.
The burrata was creamy yet light and perfectly complemented the saltiness of the salmon and fresh, buttery prawns.
For mains, we opted for the grilled seabream, which was bursting with rich flavour, as well as the chicken Milanese, which was perfectly tender with a satisfyingly crispy breadcrumb coating. We paired the meal with roast potatoes, which were dangerously moreish, sautéed Broccolini, and a tomato salad.
While we were full to bursting at this point thanks to the generous portions, we couldn't resist ordering dessert after pursuing the tempting menu. The brownie, which was blended with chocolate chip cookie had the best of both bakes, with a deliciously gooey centre and crispy exterior. The lemon meringue tart was equally as delightful - fresh, zingy and sweet.
If you're a fan of authentic Italian food, this iconic Knightsbridge restaurant is a must.
To book, visit https://www.saleepepe.co.uk/
Reviewed by Nicky Morris, Senior TV and Film writer
© Paper MoonDiscover an authentic meets luxury Italian experience at Paper Moon at The OWO
First impressions count – and Paper Moon at The OWO is intimidatingly chic. The restaurant radiates five-star luxury, from the olive tree-lined dining room to the beautiful high ceilings and statement marble bar. Entering via the grand Old War Office building on Whitehall, the doorway is hidden off a cobbled courtyard, where kind and courteous staff collect your belongings and usher you to your booth.
As I pored over the menu with a refreshing cocktail in hand, I was impressed with the breadth of choice at the Italian restaurant brand's first London venue. Paper Moon prides itself on delivering an authentic Italian experience. The dishes, created by Executive Chef Leonardo Pieri Buti, primarily hail from Milan, while also delivering a taste of other regions. The choices are ample, including a separate dessert menu and pizza options, and the prices reflect the elegance of the venue.
I opted for fail-safe Burrata as my Antipasti course, which to my surprise came in a bed of rosemary tomato confit sauce (almost soup like in texture), basil olive oil and toasted bread crumble, giving the creamy cheese a sweet kick. For my main, I tried the Pappardelle Paper Moon with bacon, tomato and cream. Buttery and perfectly moreish alongside a generous sprinkling of Parmesan, I inhaled it. I sampled the unctuous tiramisu for dessert, which definitely hit the spot. Meanwhile, favouring seafood options, my date was spoilt for choice, dining on the Polpo and Spaghetto Gentile with clams before devouring a sweet fruit tart so generous in size they couldn't finish it.
The highlight of my experience at Paper Moon was undoubtedly the courteous staff, whose kind attention to detail reflected the elegance of the venue. The gorgeous space is perfect for date night or for those looking for an enchanting location as well as tasty food. Word of warning, however, while the dress code isn't strict, I wish I'd dressed up to reflect the cool clientele and chic vibe.
Reviewed by Kate Thomas, Lifestyle Managing Editor
A budget-friendly option for Japanese cuisine
Eating out in London can sometimes be unnecessarily expensive, especially if you're treating yourself to Japanese cuisine. But at INKO NITO, the younger sister restaurant to the more upmarket ROKA and ZUMA, you can have a very filling and budget-friendly meal if you order their Express menu.
Priced at a reasonable £27 per person (add £9.50 for a medium glass of wine), the menu starts off with a selection of small plates to share, from juicy prawn and leek dumplings to delectable fried chicken with a peanut and yoghurt sauce. Think Katsu curry vibes. You'll also get a bowl of moreish edamame as well as fried cauliflower maki.
For mains, you have the choice of a salmon fillet, roasted pork belly, or tofu Kara-age, each served with steamed rice. And for dessert for an extra £3, which I highly recommend, you can tuck into a selection of mochi ice cream which is a refreshingly perfect way to end the meal.
You may not get your classic sushi and sashimi included in the set menu, but you can always order this on the side. The Express option really is a very decent offering and the quality of the food isn't compromised at all. The restaurant itself has a fun, relaxed vibe to it, with high tables surrounding the open-plan kitchen and faux cherry blossoms adorning the walls.
This May half-term, the restaurant is also introducing its Kids Eat Free menu available all day from 27 May to 3 June. Think stir fried noodles, fried chicken, and ice cream for younger diners. With adults picking the Express menu, it's a win-win for all.
Reviewed by Ainhoa Barcelona, Content Managing Editor
Step into spring with plant-based platters at Mallow
Spring has most definitely sprung and what better way to enjoy those longer days than with the fresh new menu at Mallow, the plant-based restaurant that has locations in both Borough Market and Canary Wharf.
As a vegetarian, no-meat dishes tend to be rather hit and miss but when I stepped into the fresh and bright Borough Market restaurant, I was anything but disappointed by the seasonal and sustainable spread on offer.
It felt seasonally appropriate to kick things off with the zingy strawberry and rhubarb margarita and rum highball featuring a pomegranate sumac infusion, with the former being dangerously refreshing.
We were recommended to try the tasting menu and as someone who is usually paralysed by choice in restaurants, we couldn’t resist the silky smooth amba cauliflower hummus and flatbread plus the shiitake and chestnut mushroom croquettes. To be honest, we could’ve scoffed about three more plates of those. For mains, the flaky pastry of Mallow’s specialty muhammara borek packed with charred pepper aubergine and walnut was a must-have though the sweet and spicy mango alleppey curry may have been a bit too sweet for us.
We were feeling stuffed by this point but it would have been an absolute travesty to rule out dessert. Whilst we agreed that whilst tasty, the sticky toffee pudding was a better match for winter, the pistachio raspberry tart drizzled with a vibrant raspberry coulis was the star of the show.
Taste of Mallow sharing menu is £42 per person. To book, visit mallowlondon.com
Reviewed by Alex Lilly, Snapchat and Social Media Producer
Best things to do in London in May with the family
Spending your bank holiday with the little ones? From theatre trips to themed afternoon teas, here is everything HELLO! is loving for family fun in London this month.
'Sometimes you have to be a little bit naughty' at Matilda The Musical
With May delighting us with two Bank Holidays, treating yourself and the little ones of the family to a fun day out to the West End is a no brainer. One show that is worth a visit is the Royal Shakespeare Company’s (RSC) Matilda The Musical at the Cambridge Theatre.
Expect great music, fantastic scenes and an unforgettable 185 minutes full of joy and magic. A particular favourite for me and my seven-year-old son was The School Song, where the 'big kids' introduce Matilda to the terrifying Crunchem Hall with an alphabetised list of terror.
I also can't describe just how terrific the character of Miss Trunchbull really is – some highlights include when she prompts the children to sing that they are maggots in Latin, when she forces poor Bruce to finish a chocolate cake to the tune of a revolutionary tune worthy of Les Miserables, and her hilarious PE lesson that finally sparks Matilda's powers. It's no wonder that the character is so iconic!
Reviewed by Andrea Caamano, Website Editor
© Dan Wong PhotographyAct like a big kid at the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London's new Return to Azkaban feature
Calling all Harry Potter fans! The Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter has launched a 'Return to Azkaban' feature for the summer. As a self-confessed wizarding world obsessive who has just spent months revisiting the series, I simply had to put it to the test myself. The opening coincides with the 20th Anniversary of the cinematic release of the third film, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. While the film is actually my least favourite, it's definitely one of the most exciting and darkest visually – and the new exhibition perfectly captures its magic.
Step into Professor Trelawney's Divination lesson before discovering the Defence Against the Dark Arts classroom including the exact wardrobe Lupin uses to teach the third years to fight their worst fears. Other highlights include the interior of the Knight Bus, complete with moving beds, and The Monster Book of Monsters going on a rampage in the Leaky Cauldron. To celebrate the launch, a lifelike Aunt Marge balloon was released above Tower Bridge in London, recreating a fan favourite scene from the film. You can also see inflatable Marge for yourself inside No. 4. Privet Drive, which has been given a makeover for the occasion.
The studio, which celebrated its 12th anniversary earlier this year, is always well worth a visit for any Harry Potter fans. Adults and kids alike will be entertained for hours thanks to its sheer size and there are so many fun interactive features for little ones. The 'Return to Azkaban' feature is open from 1st May – 4th September.
Reviewed by Kate Thomas, Lifestyle Managing Editor
Visit SEA LIFE London for half the price
There is so much to do in London with little ones, but this month is the perfect time to tick off some of the city's biggest and best attractions like SEA LIFE London Aquarium. Those who live in one of London's 32 boroughs are entitled to half-price tickets; you simply have to enter your postcode when booking online. The offer runs until 19 May, and the same deal applies at London Merlin Entertainments' other sites. I'm talking Madame Tussauds London, the London Dungeon, Shrek's Adventure! London, and the lastminute.com London Eye.
The aquarium is recommended for ages three plus, but when I recently visited with my under-two toddler, she had just as brilliant a time as the older kids. From marvelling at the sharks and sea turtles, to watching the penguins jump and frolic in their enclosure, to being truly amazed by the myriad of jellyfish, she was mesmerised by the whole experience. You can easily spend a couple of hours there exploring the different exhibits that house over 6,000 creatures, and learn all about the underwater world. What's more, if you combine your outing with another London Merlin Entertainments attraction, most of which are ideally located nearby on Southbank, you can save 35 per cent on the ticket price.
SEA LIFE London Aquarium has also just announced its new monthly Lates events, for adults only to enjoy the attraction after hours, starting from 22 May. Guests receive a complimentary drink on arrival in their £29 ticket.
Reviewed by Ainhoa Barcelona, Content Managing Editor
Best luxury things to do in London in May 2024
Is life calling for a little TLC? Or perhaps London's chichest new bar has been on your radar? If you're on the hunt for a little luxury in London, here is what HELLO! has been indulging in this month...
© AireSink into relaxation at Aire Ancient Baths London
If you live in London, your lifestyle is most likley fast paced and fuelled by high doses of caffeine. It's in our nature to be always-on-the-go, partly driven by the ever evolving excitment of the city.
It wasn't until after a blissful visit to Aire Ancient Baths that I recognised the importance of taking a moment to breathe. The facilities are an oasis of calm in the city, located deep underground beneath the bustling footfall of The Strand.
Expect a labyrinth of underground pools, with everything from freezing cold plunge pools, 40-degree pools, tepidariums and floatation pools as well as super bubbly rooms which were like giant jacuzzis.
Every pool was blissful, with soothing music playing out over the speakers, but the salt water floatarium was where I finally found myself able to truly switch off.
After 60 minutes sinking into relaxation in the baths, I headed for a Full Body Massage - the perfect tonic to soothe my muscles after running the London Marathon.
I emerged from the treatment room a far calmer version of myself, practically floating to the train after my massage left me feeling deeply relaxed.
The Aire Ancient Baths are a rare find in London; if they're not on your 'must visit list', they should be.
Reviewed by Georgia Brown, Senior Lifestyle & Fashion Writer
