From the bustling pavement cafes of St Christopher’s Place to the lively bistros of Fitzrovia, London’s West End offers a veritable feast of culinary cuisines, exclusive members clubs and cool bars. As we head from hot summer days into chilly autumn nights it’s all change on the menu-front, with many of our leading hotels launching new dining and afternoon tea experiences. All you need do is pull up a dining chair, or bag the best seat by the fireplace, and kick back at any of the following newsworthy venues. Oh, and if you are heading out, remember to book in early to avoid the new 10pm curfew. Cheers!
Berners Tavern – 10 Berners St, Fitzrovia, London W1T 3LF
With lunchtime fast becoming the new dinnertime, its good to know that Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton’s upmarket restaurant, Berners Tavern at the London Edition Hotel, has introduced a tantalising new set lunch menu. Available Wednesday to Friday, expect hearty autumnal fare including butternut hummus, mac and cheese and apple and blackberry crumble. This is food to linger over in a stunning 19th-century interior. Better clear the diary and take the rest of the afternoon off. Berners Tavern. Two courses, £24.50, three courses £29.50.
Brown’s Hotel – 33 Albemarle St, Mayfair, London, W1S 4BP
It’s that time of year again when the art crowd set their sights on the Mayfair Art Weekend (October 2-4) and Frieze London (October 8-11). While this year may be a little different, it won’t stop art aficionados from visiting our galleries and enjoying a cocktail in beautiful surrounds. Cue Brown’s Hotel, which has partnered with the Mayfair Art Weekend to create ‘The Naughty Corner’ cocktail. The arty tipple takes its name from the namesake nook in its celebrated Donovan Bar. Made with a mix of Bacardi Carta Blanca, White Cacao liqueur and fresh passion fruit and infused with saffron, it sure packs a punch!
Claridge’s – Brook Street, Mayfair, London, W1K 4HR
Claridge’s new jasmine-framed terrace is one of those places where you wonder if you really are sitting in the heart of a frenetic metropolis. This idyllic spot combined with the new Davies and Brook menu, created by head chef Daniel Humm, provides the ultimate alfresco dining experience. Billed as offering ‘small plates that make a big impression’, highlights include the ‘Humm Dog’ (a twist on New York street food), wrapped in bacon, and topped with truffle and Gruyere. Or you could share a whole roast chicken stuffed with foie gras, black truffle and brioche. Might we also suggest a ‘Celery Fizz’, or one of this season’s newest mixes to sip alongside?
Hoppers – 77 Wigmore Street, Marylebone, London W1U 1QE
Who doesn’t love a drink on the house? Well, be sure to get yourself to Sri-Lankan/South Indian-inspired Hoppers before 6.30pm. Early birds can choose from the ‘Taste of Hoppers’ feast menu, served Monday-Friday. Take your pick from a choice of beer, a glass of house wine, vodka and green papaya or a canned soft drink. Taste buds should be sufficiently tickled on first glance of the early evening feast menu. Top picks include devilled squid, Jaffina lamb chops and one of the most delicious lentil dhals this side of Kerala.
Harry’s Bar – 30-34 James St, Marylebone, London, W1U 1ER
Harry’s Bar, not to be confused with the famous private members’ club on South Audley Street, offers a slice of la dolce vita and a dash of Italian glamour to all who frequent its James Street restaurant and outdoor terrace. The new autumn menu features Bistecca di Manzo ribeye and chargrilled seabass fillet served with fresh fennel and zucchini. This month also sees a unique partnership with Malfy Gin, distilled close to Turin. From now until October 1, diners can enjoy limited-edition cocktails including the Arancia Negroni, a unique fusion of Malfy Arancia, Campari, Lillet Rouge and a shot of zesty orange bitters.
Don’t forget to book ahead to avoid dissapointment!
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