Circus West Village, London’s newest neighbourhood at the foot of Battersea Power Station, offers plenty to do for adults and children alike this Christmas.

An interactive Christmas tree installation reaching over 7m in height that allows visitors to trigger an animated light show will be bringing a splash of light and colour to the riverwalk at Circus West Village. The structure has been designed to allow people to explore underneath it, revealing a more immersive and interactive spider-web shape. The tree is the first installation in the UK to come from Paris-based Studio Bruyant.

Battersea Power Station’s Light Up Winter initiative, which will extend into January, includes interactive Christmas workshops and a play by Michael Morpurgo, the creator of War Horse, entitled Mimi and the Mountain Dragon. This family theatre show is full of adventure, snow, dragons, lively songs and magical puppets. Performances take place in The Village Hall at Circus West Village on select dates between 22nd and 31st December from 11am – 4pm.

There will also be live music performances every Thursday and Friday evening and Saturday and Sunday afternoons until the middle of January, with a range of soloists and duos playing their best upbeat tunes under Grosvenor Arch and on the Piazza. The initiative is from Busk in London, which supports and champions street performance across the capital.

To book tickets and to view the full programme please visit batterseapowerstation.co.uk/winter and follow @BatterseaPwrStn for the latest news and events.

One of our favourite restaurants for exceptionally fresh and delicious seafood and shellfish, also located at Circus West Village, is Wright Brothers. Designed by Macaulay Sinclair, the 126-cover restaurant and bar with a stylish and contemporary design showcases an open theatre-style kitchen.

Guests can watch the chefs at work whilst sitting at the counter or along the centre of the restaurant at mid-height marble topped tables.

The light and airy space also features a brand new addition to the Wright Brothers repertoire – a centre piece Josper charcoal oven which both seals and enhances the natural essence and flavours of seafood and meat on offer.

The drinks menu at Wright Brothers Battersea has a carefully selected wine list designed to complement the food offering, alongside Champagnes and craft beers, pale ales, stouts, IPA’s and Porters – all perfectly match the flavours of the seafood, oysters and meat. The cocktail list includes Battersea exclusive cocktails as well as favourites such as Wright Brothers Bloody Mary and options for teetotal guests or designated drivers such as the alcohol-free Prosecco and mocktails.

Group Head Chef Richard Kirkwood, came to Wright Brothers with 5 years’ experience from J Sheekey’s and counts his greatest influencers to be Tim Hughes of Caprice Holdings and Roy Brett, Head Chef at Ondine in Edinburgh. He says he enjoys working with fish for its lightness and quickness of preparation.

Kirkwood considers oysters the purest form of eating so what better way to start our meal than with a selection of oysters from Jersey, Carlingford and Morecambe Bay.

Group Head Chef Richard Kirkwood has created some exciting new dishes bespoke to Battersea including his take on the classic ‘eclade de moules’ – pine roasted mussels, as well as an indulgent roast shellfish platter .

Seafood lovers will be delighted with the grilled Galician octopus which is first steamed for one and a half hours before finishing its cooking on the Josper grill. The octopus is so tender and usually served with ajo blanco and smoked jalapeño chilli oil. However we were one of the last to try it with Cornish potatoes and chestnuts for a festive twist.

We also highly recommend the scallops which come with pumpkin puree and jalapeno oil. The scallops were cooked perfectly and the jalapeno added a fiery element that kept us coming back for more.

The menu at Wright Brothers Battersea also includes more meat options cooked in the Josper oven, including East Sussex collar of pork with chimichurri and Bannockburn beef on the bone.

Fans of Wright Brothers have plenty of choice when it comes to their renowned seafood classics such as the Dover Sole fresh from Billingsgate Market which came to the table whole.

It was impressive watching the fish being deboned in front of us by Jean-Michel Sourdrille, the genial General Manager. It took great skill to not miss a single bone. Jean-Michel explained he was classically trained and it is this attention to detail alongside the exceptional quality of the cooking and front-of-house service which makes Wright Brothers stand out.

Those looking for a meatier fish will enjoy the Sea Bass served with a zesty lemon risotto which complemented the fish perfectly.

Tenderstem broccoli for freshness and colour was joined by a festive dish of Brussels sprouts with chestnuts and pancetta.

For those with a sweet tooth, the chocolate marquise is a must, served with a large scoop of vanilla ice cream. Upon delving into this warm dessert, the gooey chocolate centre spilled out in true food porn style.

The pineapple and toffee pudding was delightful with three distinct layers of different flavours and textures drizzled in warm toffee sauce. The addition of lime and coconut sorbet added a necessary brightness and tang to balance the sweetness of this sticky winter dessert.

Wright Brothers Battersea
Battersea Power Station, 26 Circus West Village, London SW8 4NN
020 7324 7734
thewrightbrothers.co.uk
@WrightBrosLTD

Swan, Shakespeare’s Globe is a modern British all-day dining restaurant partnered with the iconic Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre. Located on the banks of the Thames, Swan is split over two floors with riverside views over the river opposite St Paul’s Cathedral.

Executive Chef Allan Pickett champions British produce with a particular passion for ingredients originating from his home county of Kent.

The first-floor bar serves British classics, such as Fish & Chips and Chicken & mushroom pie in a casual brasserie setting that is open from morning breakfast to pre or post theatre dinner as well as evening cocktails and selected local ales.

The restaurant offers British locally-sourced produce which changes with the seasons from their à la carte menu. A traditional roast is served on Sundays with all the trimmings followed by expertly-crafted desserts.

To start the meal in a festive fashion we order an aperitif and some sparkling water. Twenty minutes later, the drinks arrive with the bread and we can begin. My Fig Old Fashioned was made with Woodford Reserve, Angostura & fig for a seasonal serve that hits the spot. My dining companion had the Blue & Provencal mocktail with blueberry, lavender, rosemary & bitter lemon served in a copper mug garnished with a sprig of rosemary and orange slice.

For something to warm the cockles, the creamy cauliflower velouté comes poured on top of poached sea scallops, spiced raisins and caramelised florets.

Lovers of pâté and terrines at this time of year will enjoy the pressed country terrine studded with pistachio nut and served with red onion confit and toasted bread.

Moving on to mains, the pot roast rump of Romney Marsh lamb was meltingly tender in texture and full of flavour. Served with curly kale, caramelised shallot, garlic & thyme infused potato dauphinoise.

Steak lovers will be delighted with the generous 300g shorthorn rib eye which is served to your liking yet still juicy and tender with chips, watercress salad and béarnaise sauce. Sides include buttery heritage carrots and endive salad with walnuts which balance the richness of the meat dishes with a shot of bitterness.

Those with a sweet tooth looking for a seasonal British dessert, the cinnamon spiced steamed sponge pudding with ginger sauce hits the spot complemented by the rich and creamy custard.

Cheesecake fans must try the set vanilla cream cheesecake with poached blackberries & jam for a tasty end to a very tasty meal.

In addition to the main dining room of the restaurant, there are a variety of private dining rooms ideal for festive gathering and office dinner parties including the River Room with its large double-aspect windows, separated from the restaurant by stylish glass and copper screens, seating up to 40 guests.

The Bull Room is an intimate space for up to 12 guests with a unique blue bull tiled on one wall of the restaurant, taking in the buzz of the restaurant while enjoying the privacy of the elegant screens.

The Snug Bar is a cosy semi-private space for a cocktail on the sofas and armchairs, tucking into sharing boards and sheltered away from the main hustle and bustle of the bar.

The Balcony Room is located on the top floor, with its own private balcony, that looks over to St Paul’s Cathedral. The room can be used for a meeting or dinner of 70 guests or a standing reception of 120 guests.

Service from the front-of-house team can be hit and miss (we waited over 20 minutes for the aperitif cocktails and bread) but once the plates arrive, the food itself speaks for itself and never fails to impress. Executive Chef Allan Pickett has created a modern British menu that has something to please all tastes and we highly recommend visiting the restaurant during its quieter times to enjoy wonderful food and equally wonderful riverside views.

Swan, Shakespeare’s Globe
21 New Globe Walk
Bankside
London
SE1 9DT
www.swanlondon.co.uk
@SwanGlobe

The Ampersand Hotel is one of our favourite 5-star boutique hotels in South Kensington.

At the heart of the Ampersand Hotel is The Drawing Rooms offering a light and airy patisserie lounge.

With deep sofas and studded armchairs in scarlet velvets and kingfisher blues, The Drawing Rooms is the perfect place to enjoy pretty pastries, exceptional teas, and freshly-pressed coffees.

The Drawing Rooms is also home to The Ampersand’s award-winning Science Afternoon Tea. Inspired by the neighbouring Natural history and Science Museums, this was crowned ‘Best Themed Afternoon Tea’ at the Afternoon Tea Awards 2018.

Alongside a delicious selection of seasonal sandwiches, quiches and warm scones, guests can enjoy expertly-crafted pastries including white chocolate coconut sponge with vanilla buttercream, dust for mini dinosaur biscuit ‘fossils’ hidden beneath chocolate soil, and be transported with Milky Way macaroons and milk chocolate spacemen.

Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free guests will find menus expertly and creatively crafted to suit their specific dietary requirements. For an extra special treat, add a glass of champagne to sip with your sweet treats for only £49.50 per person.

What a fantastic Afternoon Tea ahead of us. Who could resist these sumptuous looking sweet treats!

We loved the dark chocolate & raspberry planet mousse, chocolate spaceman, Blueberry & yuzu macaroon, Chocolate & coconut half-moon cake and Strawberry & elderflower jelly petri dish. The dish had an eerie out of this world feeling with the dry ice poured around the planet mousse making you feel like one has just landed!

The savoury offering includes Smoked salmon & avocado on blinis and Brioche with roast beef, watercress, cornichons.

Even a Science Afternoon Tea would not be complete without the quintessentially British scone. At the Ampersand Hotel, these were homemade white chocolate and cranberry & plain scones served with Devonshire clotted cream, homemade strawberry preserve and Lemon curd squeeze tube. We were also able to add freeze-dried raspberry, freeze-dried pineapple, and crunchy caramel toppings.

The Chicken with basil & lemon mayonnaise and Truffle egg mayonnaise buns were packed full of irresistible flavour and tasty textures.

Science Afternoon Tea is served from 12.30-9.00pm, Monday to Saturday and 12.30-6pm on Sundays. £39.50pp or £49.50pp with a glass of champagne.

If you’d like to try this Science Afternoon Tea with a twist, The Drawing Rooms also offers a tipsy Science Teapot Tales menu which sees afternoon tea favourites served alongside a cocktail flight including Darwin’s Draught – a refreshing mix of Lalani & Co Earl Grey infused Chase vodka, Kamm & Sons, cucumber, apple and ginger.

Also on the cocktail flight is Marie Cure-All – Lalani & Co Premium Genmaicha infused rum with Aperol, Antica Formula & Amer Picon – will be served alongside perennial afternoon tea favourites. The Science Teapot Tales menu is served from 12.30-9.00pm, Monday to Saturday and 12.30-6pm on Sundays. £49.50pp.

For a playful Kid’s Sci-Fi Tea menuThe Kid’s Sci-Fi Tea adds an immersive twist to the Science Afternoon Tea. Served on brightly coloured rocket stands, the menu offers a special selection of children’s favourites.

These include mini hot dogs, and kids are encouraged to experiment by topping white chocolate & cranberry scones with lemon curd served in squeeze tubes, freeze-dried raspberry pieces & crunchy caramel balls.

Kid’s Sci-Fi Tea is served from 12.30-9.00pm, Monday to Saturday and 12.30-6pm on Sundays. £29.50pp.

The Ampersand Hotel
10 Harrington Rd, Kensington, London SW7 3ER
+44 (0) 207 589 5895
ampersandhotel.com/whats-on/luxury-afternoon-tea
@ampersandhotel

The newly opened Toomai Square in Greenwich brings bold pan-Asian cooking to the heart of the borough. The family-run restaurant – which also offers takeaway – combines much-loved Thai, Chinese, Malaysian and Indonesian classics on one menu, with healthy options and bespoke cocktails to boot.

The restaurant was set up by Executive Chef Bhola Prasad & his brother Kumar Sunil who come from a small village in Northeast India.

Toomai Square is fast becoming a go-to destination for families with its vibrant and varied menu and options to please everyone. It’s also a great destination for city workers looking for after-work dinner and drinks.

Toomai Square is not just a dining destination for top-notch Asian food. Guests can enjoy Toomai twists on favourites thanks to their creative cocktail menu and the wine lists boasts labels for all budgets and a large selection of Japanese whiskies and well-known spirits makes the restaurant yet more appealing as a destination for pre-dinner drinks.

We started our evening at Toomai Square with a cocktail and a snack before being brought a selection of dishes especially chosen by the chef. For those who like juicy chicken wings to whet their appetite, you can’t go wrong with these.

It was also nice to try the non alcoholic mocktail Bee Good which is a delightful combination of fresh blueberries, pomegranate juice and ginger accompanied by a very much alcoholic Pornstar Martini. This signature cocktail certainly started the evening with a bang!

Ingredients are of the highest quality, with dishes that even Asian cuisine connoisseurs would be impressed by. The flavour-packed menu includes lollipop chicken to fire up your meal. These pieces of chicken are fried in batter served with hot garlic sauce. We also highly recommend the calamari – it’s traditional and a far cry from the battered calamari you see on most menus. The standard of the food at Toomai Square tantalises your taste buds from the very first bite.

Unexpectedly the star of the show was the honey chilli vegetable patties with honey and sesame chilli sauce. It would be criminal not to order these… even carnivores love them.

For mains, chef’s specials like Lobster Yellow Curry, Vegetarian or Chicken Laksa and Lamb Shank Massaman are sure to impress, while a full Thai curry and noodle menu adds even more choice.

Sticking with a chilli theme, our next dish was this chilli chicken which is generous enough to order as a main course as a good alternative for vegetarian diners would be the chilli paneer.

Any fitness enthusiasts will be pleased to see dedicated ‘healthy choice’ options, including Thai-style soups and an enticing salad menu. Those who like a lighter option should try the dim sum dishes served with a sweet soy sauce. We had the delicious handmade steamed dumpling with a succulent prawn filling.

Those who want meatier options should go for the chilli lamb. Compared to the previous chilli dishes, this dish had a peppery heat which added variety to the feast of flavours during our meal at Toomai Square.

The SLOAN! team love curries so we ordered a chicken green curry… a prawn panang curry…. and a lamb shank massaman curry. And the winner was… the lamb massaman curry.

This was arguably one of the best massaman curries we have ever reviewed. It even converted a massaman curry hater into a massaman curry fan. The massaman curry is made with lamb, potatoes & nuts, garnished with flaked almond & pickled onions.

Guests won’t want to miss out on the brothers’ signature Pad Thai – a traditionally made dish showcasing their experience and travels around Asia. Another noodle dish we recommend is the top quality Singapore noodles.

For lovers of Thai food, the Panang curry will not disappoint with its fresh green vegetables and succulent prawns. It delighted the senses.

Making the most of the breadth of the Pan Asian menu at Toomai Sqaure, we couldn’t resist the Chicken Green Curry with fresh green vegetables.

What a lovely selection of dishes from the talented chefs at Toomai Square restaurant in Greenwich.

The black cod was nice but the curries definitely stole the show.

The SLOAN! team didn’t partake in dessert and those who are thinking of lunching here there are some delicious lighter options and salads on offer. There really is something for everyone.

But Toomai’s unrivalled offering doesn’t end in the restaurant. The menu is available for takeaway too – perfect for busy Londoners who want refined Asian food but don’t feel like eating in.

Restaurant owner, Kumar Sunil, says: “Our restaurant’s cuisine is created by the marriage between Chinese cooking methods (stir-frying small cuts of meat and veggies on high heat), Indian flavours (hot, spicy, sweet and sour) and Thai freshness/exoticness, creating the perfect symphony of flavours.”

Kumar added, “Our cuisine is a simple yet clever combination of Eastern and Western influences harmoniously combined into that je ne sais quoi.”

Toomai Square
5-6 Lambarde Square, London SE10 9GB
0208 066 1199
www.toomaisquare.co.uk
@toomaisquareuk

It’s time to celebrate the most wonderful time of year with the Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea at London Hilton on Park Lane.  This quintessentially British tradition with a Yuletide twist is one we love to do.

Offering a cosy retreat from Christmas shopping and the merriments of Hyde Park, the Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea at London Hilton on Park Lane offers three tiers of seasonal delights incorporating a host of festive themed sweet treats such as white chocolate ganache macaron, coconut and mango yule log and an iced shortbread snowman.

We arrived at London Hilton on Park Lane and made our way to Podium Restaurant to try the much anticipated Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea. Setting the jovial tone, the special delicacies of the Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea at London Hilton on Park Lane provide the perfect opportunity to embrace the magic of Christmas whilst sipping an indulgent glass of Pommery Champagne or enjoying a comforting cup of Twinings tea available in black, green and white teas in addition to fruity infusions.

We started off with a festive twist enjoying a super-fruity tea which was a deliciously juicy and mouthwatering blend. Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea at London Hilton on Park Lane had already got the thumbs up from our table before the first bite had even happened!

The Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea menu at London Hilton on Park Lane includes an assortment of freshly prepared festive open sandwiches which are something a little different yet still luxurious and indulgent with each bite enticing you back for another taste.

There is plenty of variety as well with options including seafood favourites such as Smoked salmon & horseradish cream alongside Prawn cocktail & lettuce together with the classic teatime treat of Cucumber, chive & cream cheese sandwiches all served on malt bread. We also loved the meatier options of Coronation chicken with curry & pineapple in addition to Ham, tomato chutney, mustard & cress brought to you on ciabatta bread making for a mix of textures and flavours to keep your taste buds tantalised!

A definite must for those with a sweet tooth, Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea at London Hilton on Park Lane offers cakes and pastries which not only look good but they taste heavenly. These include an Iced shortbread snowman alongside Raspberry & strawberry parfait with appetising miniature fancies such as Praline & milk chocolate sphere, Coconut & mango log, White chocolate ganache macaron and Chocolate & mandarin tart.

Executive Head Chef Anthony Marshall has created the Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea with the able assistance of his pastry chefs Emmanuel Bonneau and Sam Leatherby who were crowned winners of winners of Bake Off: The Professionals 2018. Even a Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea would not be complete with the scones.

Emmanuel and Sam – the award-winning pastry chefs at London Hilton on Park Lane – offer teatime guests a unique choice of freshly baked chocolate chip scones in addition to the more traditional plain and raisin scones served with Dorset Clotted Cream and strawberry jam plus the unusual but delicious option of Salted caramel spread for an interesting twist to the usual fare one encounters at other Afternoon Teas in London.

The Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea at London Hilton on Park Lane is a great way to satisfy those sugar cravings and get into the Christmas spirit whether you are catching up with friends or embarking on a romantic date with a quintessentially British theme.

Located in the heart of Mayfair, London Hilton on Park Lane is a charming destination to visit at any time of year. Situated minutes away from The Strand and the West End’s famous bars and landmarks, it is the ideal venue to escape this Christmas.

The beautifully presented selection of tempting delicacies served at the Winter Wonderland Afternoon Tea at London Hilton on Park Lane is available for just £39 per person on weekdays from 2pm to 5pm and from 12.30pm to 5pm Saturday and Sunday with the upgrade to a Royal Afternoon Tea with a glass of champagne for £49.00.

Podium Restaurant
London Hilton on Park Lane
22 Park Lane, London W1K 1BE
020 7208 4022
info@podiumrestaurant.com
www.podiumrestaurant.com
@londonhiltonpl

Heliot Steak House is an award-winning steak restaurant located inside The Hippodrome, in the heart of London’s West End. In addition to the decadent dining to be had, there is also a wealth of entertainment available 24-hours a day. The 180-seat cabaret theatre hosts the best jazz, swing, soul, cabaret and burlesque acts from Wednesday through to Saturday night and the casino offers three floors of gaming with a designated poker deck.

The restaurant is named after one of the first acts to play at the Hippodrome, the tenacious lion tamer Claire Heliot, who was famous worldwide for feeding raw meat to lions on stage and was often described as one of the most thrilling acts ever seen.

The restaurant enjoys a rare view looking out into the casino’s three gaming floors and is a great place to relax and enjoy a meal in a fun environment followed by a show in the 180-seat music and cabaret theatre or a drink in one of the building’s six bars. Head Chef Ioannis Grammenos – named as the world’s first Meatologist – oversees the menu at Heliot Steak House.

All the steaks at Heliot Steak House are USDA Prime 3-year-old grain fed beef of the highest quality. Less than two per cent of all beef from the US receives the Prime designation. After starting with the best beef, the steaks are aged for a minimum of four to six weeks for tenderness and flavour, then the meat is trimmed and seasoned before hitting the flame-grill to be cooked to your liking.

The menu at Heliot Steak House offers a selection of dishes created for each season inspired by classic American cuisine with touches of lighter European ingredients used in the starter dishes, grills and fish main courses.

The highlight of the menu are the signature 28-day aged USDA prime steaks, which are available in nine different classic cuts including fillet and T-bone. Each steak is aged for between four and six weeks to develop tenderness and flavour before being flame-grilled to perfection under the watchful eye of Head Chef Ioannis Grammenos.

Diners can choose from a wide variety of traditional and innovative sauces, including blue cheese butter and spicy peanut butter, and toppings including roasted bone marrow and lobster tail, to complement.

The foie gras comes with apple puree, peach saffron and caramelised hazelnuts. The dish uses the mix of flavours and textures to create a delightful series of tastes supporting the main star the show the decadent foie gras.

Heliot’s grilled octopus with crayfish & charcoal mayonnaise is a dish not to be missed. The plate is enticing to the eye and the mix of the flavours combine well to create a seafood explosion in the mouth

Head Chef Ioannis Grammenos is starting a steak revolution teaching people to cook meat in a series of Meatology masterclasses that will take place throughout the year and which will educate meat lovers on how to cook the perfect steak as well as how to prepare the beef and use all the various cuts.

One of Head Chef Ioannis Grammenos signature dishes his Chateaubriand with crispy soft-shell crab, roast bone marrow and chimichurri sauce is a dish for any discerning steak lover. This dish brings together the land and sea to give you a variety of delectable flavours that will keep you entertained throughout.

For those not wanting to part take in meat Heliot also has seafood options we tried the pan-fried salmon with salsify saffron and Jacquart Champagne sauce.

The dessert menu is presented with a dramatic flair befitting the history of The Hippodrome, which was established in 1900 and has a rich history, playing host to stars such as Harry Houdini, Shirley Bassey, Judy Garland and The Jackson 5. Those with a sweet tooth can opt for the White Russian Cheesecake complete with smoky special effects.

Other opulent creations include the Charlotte – a delicate chocolate mousse served with dulche de leche ice cream & hot chocolate sauce – or the raspberry meringue accompanied by lemon sorbet & candy floss. Each dessert can also be paired with a dessert wine, chosen by the in-house sommelier.

With a range of around-the-clock menus to accompany the 24-hour mix of gaming and entertainment available in the venue, Heliot Steak House caters for all guests’ needs from midday brunch through to midnight steaks. This deliciously different dining destination offers one of the best nights out in London, a winning combination of high-quality steak and top notch entertainment all under one roof.

Heliot Steak House
The Hippodrome Casino, 10-14 Cranbourn Street, London, WC2H 7JH
0207 769 8844
www.hippodromecasino.com/restaurant-bars-lounges
@heliotsteakhouse

This November, the team behind the modern steakhouse, The Jones Family will be celebrating Thanksgiving with a special menu at both of their restaurants in Shoreditch and Belgravia. From Thursday 22 to Saturday 24 November, they’ll be sharing thanks with a three-course dinner, paired with cocktails inspired by timeless US anthems that celebrate four classic US harvest fruits: apple, blueberry, grape and cranberry. Plus there’ll be some food for thought on the table when the culinary traditions of The North and The South are put to the test for dessert. We hotfooted it to nearby Belgravia to give thanks for The Jones Family’s Thankgiving menu!

Historically, Thanksgiving was a three-day celebration so The Jones Family have decided to spread the tradition over three evenings. The paired cocktail menu option starts off with an ode to Guns n’ Roses in the form of Bad Apples: a cocktail made with Wild Turkey Straight Rye, Laird’s applejack, pumpkin butter, lemon, sugar and bitters.

The first course, Cream of Squash Soup with Pumpkin Seeds & Winter Truffle, is paired with Forever in Blue Jeans – a cocktail inspired by the iconic Neil Diamond song. Made with Wild Turkey 101 bourbon, Aperol, sweet vermouth, blueberry and sugar, the vanilla spice notes of the bourbon brings out the texture and sweetness of the squash.

But, Thanksgiving wouldn’t be Thanksgiving, or as others fondly call it, Turkey Day, without America’s favourite bird. A beautiful roast turkey will be served for the main course and the team at Jones haven’t held back on the trimmings: buttermilk mash, greens, sprouts, garlic buttered breadcrumbs, lashings of gravy, Jones’ Thanksgiving stuffing, and not forgetting a side of cranberry sauce.

For this course, the Jones wine team looked to The Mamas & The Papas, California Dreamin’ to inspire their drinks pairing: a 2014 Truchard Chardonnay, from Carneros, Napa Valley, California. An attractive, crisp oaky nose of apple and lime with a good acidity to bind together the ripe melon and citrus fruit with the creamy texture – a perfect accompaniment to the rich flavours of the main course.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bp9TFaCn7CQ/

Then to finish, the ultimate American Pie! America is a cornucopia of culinary traditions and the flavour of a Thanksgiving pie has always been a North vs. South debate: Pumpkin or Pecan? The Jones Family leaves it to you decide offering you the chance to sink your teeth into both Anna’s Pumpkin Pie with double cream and Lizzy’s Pecan Pie with nougat & cranberries.

Sip on Sweet Bitter Love, a digestif designed with the late, great, Aretha Franklin in mind, made with Wild Turkey 101 bourbon, sherry, cranberry, pineapple and sherry vinegar, perfect for the sweet tooth.

The Thanksgiving feast is £35 per person or £70 per person with drinks pairings and will run every evening from Thursday 22 to Saturday 24 November at The Jones Family Kitchen. As you’d expect, bookings are essential and the dinner must be ordered beforehand by emailing the restaurant. Further details below.

The Jones Family Kitchen
7-8 Eccleston Yards, London SW1W 9NF
+44(0)20 3929 6000
bookbelgravia@jonesfamilykitchen.co.uk
www.jonesfamilykitchen.co.uk
@jonesbelgravia

In partnership with Belvedere Vodka and Ruinart Champagne, Sake no Hana – the Japanese restaurant from Hakkasan Group – is celebrating the change of season with an Autumn Leaf installation using autumnal red, orange and yellow leaves that encase the floor to ceiling glass windows at the front of the restaurant on St James Street.

Executive Head Chef Hideki Hiwatashi has created a limited-edition menu utilising seasonal ingredients and flavours for guests to enjoy whilst sipping on warming cocktails, Japanese sake, and whisky.

Fiery red, warming orange, and frosty yellow leaves have been used in the installation to honour the Japanese maple leaf season, giving guests a feeling of nature as they enter the restaurant.

The autumnal installations complements esteemed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma’s interiors awash with linear bamboo and cypress wood adding a futuristic forest feel to the restaurant.

The installation offers guests the chance to experience ‘momiji-gari’, the Japanese tradition of viewing the maple leaves whilst enjoying modern authentic Japanese cuisine in the heart of Mayfair.

The installation has been specially commissioned to respond to the unique space and the season and created by The Edit Events. Managing Director Sarah Kay commented on the project: “We were delighted to work closely with the Sake no Hana team to develop an Autumn Leaves install. This time of year in Japan sees an incredible array of colours, shapes and textures which we have emulated within the design. Adding a modern twist is a signature of Hakkasan Group hence the inclusion of metallics and a sprayed artistic style which creates an urban Autumn install within the heart of London.”

From now until 24th November, Sake no Hana will be offering a limited-edition Autumn Leaves set menu utilising warming autumnal flavours and ingredients. Dishes include Kinoko misojitate, wild mushroom and chilli yuzu miso soup in addition to Shitake tofu, shiitake mushrooms filled with homemade tofu and wasabi sauce.

Also on the menu is Salmon kurumi miso yaki, pan fried Loch Duart salmon with walnuts and Kyoto miso.

Elsewhere on the Autumn Leaves menu, one will find Tori Sumiyaki – chargrilled miso chicken with sesame chilli miso – in addition to Gunma wagyu beef maki, asparagus, caramelised onion and kizami wasabi.

The dessert, Autumn Leaf, is a hazelnut feuilletine and hazelnut chocolate parfait with chocolate and maple syrup soup and a mascarpone mousse.

Limited edition drinks include a warming Maple Toddy utilising Hennessy Fine de Cognac, Akashi-Tai Umeshu sake, ginger, maple, chocolate and edible rice paper art.

Also on offer is the Shisho 54 – Belvedere vodka, Midori, lime, shiso, Fever-Tree slimline tonic and Prosecco.

In addition, the Koyo Nora blends Belvedere vodka, cardamom, mandarin, yuzu and edible rice paper art.

The Autumn Leaf installation and the limited-edition menu is available at Sake no Hana from now until 24th November for £40 per person, also available a la carte.

For sushi lovers, you may also like to try a selection of delights on Sake no Hana’s main menu including Soft Shell Crab Maki which consists of softshell crab tempura with cucumber and mango; Gindara Maki for a flavour burst of black cod tempura with courgette and chilli miso; or the superb Aburi Salmon Crab Maki made from seared salmon with king crab, tobiko and nashi pear.

Sake no Hana
23 St James’s Street, London SW1A 1HA
020 7925 8988
sakenohana.com/london/
@sakenohanalondon

Modern Pan-Asian tapas restaurant Gamma Gamma brings the flavours and colours of the East to the heart of Soho at 6 Greek Street – the former site of Bo Drake. Launched at the end of October 2018, Gamma Gamma serves up a menu of fusion dishes designed for sharing and including show-stopping dishes of exotic meats such as zebra, kangaroo and ostrich, all complemented with bespoke cocktails.

The vibrant menu created by Executive Chef, Jonathan Villar, formerly of MBER and Kopapa, features many gluten and dairy free options. The raw and cured dishes include tiger prawns and coconut Thai ceviche, kaffir lime, chilli and coriander and one of their signature dishes of zebra loin tataki with charred grapes, popcorn, sake cured egg, sriracha jelly and orange blossom labneh. Salads include a unique Asian take on tuna nicoise – seared nori tuna loin with baby gem lettuce, soft boiled egg, truffle potato, green beans, cherry tomatoes and edamame, kalamansi and togarashi vinaigrette.

Other areas in the sharing menu feature crispy sesame squid with yuzu mayonnaise and 8 hour braised wagyu beef ribs with beetroot and kizami wasabi siu mai, smoked bone marrow and garlic aioli. The grill section features another exotic meat of kangaroo steak “tagalog”, a Filipino style steak marinated in soy with kalamansi, garlic and black pepper, caramelised onion and garlic chips. Curries include jungle curry with minced ostrich loin, lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime and Thai chillies.

Not to be outdone, the bar team have created a selection of delicious libations to complement the menu and aims to highlight the diverse produce of Asia. The Pink Lady features vodka, lychee liqueur, almond syrup, aloe vera juice, yuzu syrup and raspberry juice whilst the Struck by Lychee comprises of vodka, hibiscus liqueur, lychee juice, shisho leaf, sugar and lime juice. A selection of sakes, wines and beers is also available.

Spanning the ground floor and basement the restaurant’s interior is sophisticated, industrial and minimal in style with a large double-sided bar being the focal point of the restaurant. Dim lighting and deep house music create a perfect ambience for diners, be that for a first date, a meal with friends or business lunch.

To start our gastronomic journey at Gamma Gamma, we were offered an amuse bouche made of black sesame and fermented soya with a pineapple juice shot. This was a great way to introduce our taste buds to the Pan-Asian experience that lay ahead.

Gamma Gamma takes great pride in their cocktail menu and for good reason. l had the Nut Fashioned – a cashew nut whiskey which is made from combining cashew with Four Roses Bourbon, and Peychaud’s bitters. The bar is also very flexible in its approach and was able to make a non-alcoholic cocktail from scratch. It was an impressive fusion of raspberry, grapefruit and lemongrass.

The great thing about the menu at Gamma Gamma is that it is perfect for sharing. We couldn’t resist the crispy sesame squid with yuzu mayonnaise. The batter was light and fluffy and the squid itself was soft but firm. The yuzu adds an extra dimension and with a slight chilli kick this dish is one you will keep coming back for.

Gamma Gamma’s chicken satay is a generous portion which comes with an Asian style spicy peanut sauce infused with lemongrass. The flavours are slightly spicy but all work together in unison bringing a fresh take on the traditional satay dish.

The Cornish crab dumplings are a delight. It comes with 3 crab dumplings beautifully presented. The laksa broth, bean sprouts, crushed peanuts, coconut, chilli, tofu and coriander all combine to add great flavour and texture to the dumpling itself which is soft and generously filled with crab.

The slow cooked venison & hoisin puff is a single pastry with roasted loin of venison, haggis crisp, glazed figs, nikka whiskey and wasabi cream. The loin of venison comes medium rare and contrasts well with the haggis but the real treat here is the light flaky pastry with a tender centre of venison.

A must-try dish is the kangaroo steak “tagalog” which is Filipino style steak marinated in soy, kalamansi, garlic and black pepper, caramelised onion and garlic chips. A great alternative to traditional steak that doesn’t disappoint with wonderful gamey flavours which adds umami taste without being overpowering. The garlic chips are a nice complement to the dish.

Grilled lamb chops are a favourite here at SLOAN! These were perfectly cooked with spices for a flavoursome lamb dish that packs a punch!

A healthy main to look out for is the jungle curry made from minced ostrich loin, aromatic lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime and thai chillis. This dish is full-bodied but the subtle meaty flavours of the ostrich make this a must try for any curry lover. You won’t be disappointed in the depth of flavour and the different textures that keep your palate guessing.

A different take on traditional lobster is Gamma Gamma’s Singapore chilli lobster with birds eye chilli, palm sugar, lemongrass, coriander and ginger. The lobster is served with fried in batter for a soft and succulent bite with spicy flavours complementing the dish yet still subtle enough to maintain the fresh seafood taste from the lobster.

For those with a sweet tooth, polish off your meal at Gamma Gamma with one of a selection of desserts including dark chocolate with a coconut and pineapple parfait and banana toffee spring roll with miso ice cream and toasted peanuts.

Gamma Gamma brings the diverse and unexpected flavours of Asia to Soho through unique flavour combinations using unusual ingredients in a sophisticated environment. Highly recommended.

Gamma Gamma
6 Greek St, Soho, London W1D 4DE
020 7287 3033
gammagamma.co.uk
​@gammagammasoho

Searcys’ iconic restaurants, Champagne bars and events have a world-renowned, long-standing reputation for quality and innovation. The first ever event caterers in the UK, founded in 1847 by John Searcy, they’ve carved out a name as brave market- leaders, launching bold, forward-thinking concepts including the original in-station Champagne bar at St Pancras, one of London’s first skyscraper restaurants, as well as cafés and restaurants in two World Heritage Sites. Their 30 plus venues across the UK, serve fresh, modern dishes that focus on sustainability, local produce and world-class service standards.

The Gherkin was the building that first changed the landscape of the new London skyline. Since then it has reasserted its architectural worth as well as its culinary credibility in the face of its new sky-high neighbours. In July 2018, Searcys at the Gherkin launched a reimagined dining and bar concept of HELIX and IRIS on levels 39 and 40 of London’s iconic Norman Foster-designed building.

The names of the restaurant and bar derive from the Gherkin’s structure itself, the helix shape which is the pinnacle of the building is an iconic sight, visible across the city. Less well known, is that when viewed from above it forms an iris shape – designed by Foster to reflect the Gherkin’s place as the eye over the city.

HELIX restaurant, located on level 39 at the iconic Gherkin offers sky-high contemporary dining at both lunch and dinner with majestic views across the city. A proud celebration of British produce in one of London’s finest landmarks, Executive Chef Daniel Loftin, previously head chef at Royal House London and Peninsula Restaurant, delivers menus that put seasonal and local produce centre stage.

Perched high above the city, this elegant, contemporary space combines big-sky views and intimate dining. Helix’s menus focus on celebrating seasonality and the best ingredients available in the British Isles, keeping Searcys’ commitment to sustainability and quality at its heart. Salmon comes directly from John Ross Jr, holders of the Queen’s warrant, in Scotland, all fruit and vegetables are sourced from the UK, and meat is locally and lovingly selected from some of the country’s finest farms.

The Dorset crab with grapefruit, soy and sesame was very flavourful and fresh. The sweetness of the crab, fruitiness of the grape and tartness of the apple were beautifully brought together by the soy and sesame sauce into probably one of the best starters I’ve had. The various flavours of the diverse components of this dish married together to create an amazing dish with its presentation as equally impressive as the taste.

Crispy pig’s head with ‘nduja, pecorino and burnt apple clearly demonstrated a mastery of both the finest British ingredients and the art of plating.

The Venison main course was beautifully presented with a lovely piece of venison. The sauce was wonderful.

Line-caught wild bass was cooked to perfection with the addition of octopus and sea vegetables adding further flavour dimension to this superb seafood dish.

The Chestnut parfait dessert had a gorgeous grouping of the many components and flavours. Light but satisfying, filled with wonderful flavours and textures. A wonderful way of ending the meal.

The Lemon tart is served in contemporary fashion with delicate meringue, sweet raspberry puree and smooth creme fraiche ice cream to create a dessert which really refreshes the palate.

Alongside the restaurant, the IRIS bar has made the epic 360° views available to the public for the very first time. Previously the site of a members-only club, IRIS is open to all and will offer an extensive cocktail menu as unique as the setting, paying homage to the London sights and neighbourhoods that can all be spied below from the Gherkin’s distinctive position.

Guests are able to reserve a space in the IRIS bar from 11am to 11pm. Searcys’ expertise in exquisite champagne, English sparkling wine and cocktails, alongside unrivalled London views, make every visit to the Iris bar a celebration. The unique cocktail menu draws inspiration from its very special view with the list overseen by Head Mixologist Federico Geniale.

Cocktails include The Little White Bird, inspired by the Kensington Gardens, with its Peter Pan associations of Violet liqueur, vanilla vodka, lychee, elderflower, lemon and English sparkling wine.

Whilst the Jack the Ripper (Mediterranean herbs vodka, beetroot juice, tomato, lemon, Worcester sauce, Mexican sauce), a dark local twist on the Bloody Mary, references Whitechapel’s most famous former visitor.

The dress code is casual elegance. HELIX lunch service is from 12pm – 2.15pm and dinner service is from 6pm – 9pm. The IRIS Bar is open from 11am to 11pm

HELIX Restaurant
Searcys at The Gherkin
30 St Mary Axe, London EC3A 8AP
0330 107 0816
www.searcysatthegherkin.co.uk
@SearcysGherkin

The Coal Shed, One Tower Bridge London, specialises in cooking exceptional quality fish and meat over fire and their new summer menu is packed with delicious dishes to suit everyone’s tastes. Located opposite the iconic Tower of London, the restaurant opened by Razak Helalat at the end of 2017, prides itself on sourcing only the best seasonal, sustainable meat and seafood.

Market fresh oysters are an appetising snack to enjoy with an aperitif before exploring the A La Carte menu further. We loved the delicious Porthilly rock oysters served chilled with shallot vinegar.

The buttery plump specimens prove that The Coal Shed pride themselves in the quality and taste of their excellent seafood dishes.

Fresh and flavourful new starters on the summer menu created by executive chef Dave Mothersill, include; Smoked Old Spot Pork Jowl with Granny Smith Apple, Couth Coast Cured Grey Mullet with Avocado, Lime and Chilli and Beef Carpaccio with Crispy Garlic and Yuzu.

To begin, I had Cornish Monkfish Scampi with Tartare hollandaise. This was an excellent dish showcasing the best of British seafood in an interesting way with the addition of creamy texture from the hollandaise adding a new dimension to accompany the fish than the more traditional tartare accompaniment.

My dining companion had the BBQ Beef Short Rib with Asian inspired flavours from peanut, chilli and spring onion. Although the glaze was a tad too salty, the fork tender texture of the beef rib was lovely.

For mains, dive into Turbot Cooked on the Bone with Jersey Royals, Asparagus, Samphire and Green Sauce, BBQ Lamb with Aubergine, Chilli and Courgettes and Fire Roasted Cauliflower with Broad Bean Hummus and Cashew & Parmesan Cream.

The piece de resistance on the mains menu has to be the Surfboard with its selection of the day’s freshest shellfish fire roasted  to seafood perfection. From tiger prawns and mussels to scallops and crab, seafood lovers will definitely not be disappointed by this veritable feast of flavour!

Come in for a closer look…

The Coal Shed is known for its selection of steaks available in a variety of cuts and weights and perfectly matched with sides like Beef Dripping Chips or a zingy new additions to the summer menu like the Summer Greens with Chilli and Fennel.

The steaks are grilled to perfection allowing the flavours of the high quality meat to shine through. Sadly the sauces can be hit and miss. The Green Peppercorn sauce came out cold and had to be sent back but was swiftly replaced by the kitchen with a much better (and hotter) version.

Accompaniments included a seasonal favourite – Jersey Royals – which are just coming to the end of their season. Alongside the potatoes we had a delicious full-flavoured salad of Baby Gem, Blue Cheese and Bacon which paired well with the meaty flavours of the juicy Sirloin.

To finish your summer feast on a high note, we recommend one of the exquisite dessert creations from head pastry chef Laura Peterson.

For something light and refreshing try the BBQ Nectarine with Mascarpone and Almonds or if you’re in the mood for something more indulgent you’ll love the Sweet Selection for Two offering chocolate coal, fudge, marshmallow, doughnuts, 99 ice cream and macarons to satify the sweetest sweet tooth.

To finish I had the White Chocolate Bar complemented with citrusy yuzu and tangy raspberry balanced the sweetness from the thick white chocolate bar.

My dining companion ended their meal with the Dark Chocolate Artic Roll with Cherries and Pistachios. The delicious flavours of the iced dessert pair well with the fresh and dried cherries and the rich taste of the pistachio.

Alongside the new à la carte menu, The Coal Shed also puts on a full sharing roast on Sundays, complete with seasonal summer side dishes for the whole table to enjoy.

The Coal Shed London offers sensational seafood, wonderful hospitality and a great location in London’s South Bank.

The Coal Shed
Unit 3.1 One Tower Bridge, 4 Crown Square, London, SE1 2SE
www.coalshed-restaurantlondon.co.uk
@thecoalshed

Min Jiang, London’s most authentic Chinese restaurant reflects the significance of food in Chinese culture, Min Jiang has embraced the wide variety of cooking styles and techniques that have been passed down through generations. To showcase the chef’s talents and dedication to the Chinese culture, Min Jiang has continuously crafted dishes that emphasise the fine-dining experience guests receive while eating at the tenth-floor restaurant.

During its 10-year legacy, the restaurant has become synonymous with awards celebrating the talent of Min Jiang’s devoted chefs. Alongside World Cuisine Chef award winner Head Chef Han, the Master Dim Sum Chef and Master Duck Chef have been permanent fixtures of the team creating exceptional culinary masterpieces since Min Jiang opened in 2008.

Available for a limited time and including vibrant colours and delicate creations, Min Jiang’s brand-new anniversary dishes symbolise good fortune and prosperity. The menu includes a Dim Sum platter consisting of Alaskan king crab, Beijing Duck garnished with morrels, truffles served with bun dough and spiced sauce, langoustines delicately poached in Chinese wine and finally a Malibu parfait with compressed pineapple and chocolate hazelnut crumb.

Effortlessly thriving after 10 years, Min Jiang remains at the pinnacle of London’s Chinese culinary scene with bookings taken weeks in advance. Looking forward, Min Jiang is introducing four new limited items to their a la carte menu which highlight the master chefs expertise.Using the finest quality ingredients, the gourmet dishes served in honour of the 10th anniversary and the future of Min Jiang, will be present on the menu throughout August 2018.

Chef Han, Min Jiang’s head chef said: “For 10 years, we have maintained our authenticity by offering traditional Chinese cuisine to our diners, making sure each dish is cooked using Chinese cooking styles and techniques that have been passed down through generations. We can’t wait for our diners to experience our anniversary dishes that have allowed each master chef to deliver their own signature dish to celebrate our 10-year anniversary.”

Amid the red, white and black minimalism of Min Jiang, the chef’s outstanding food presentation, especially when carving the Beijing duck, has positioned the restaurant as a go to destination for culinary lovers. Truly embodying the authenticity of Min Jiang, the focal point of the guest dining experience has been shaped by the restaurant’s world-renowned Beijing Duck. Prepared according to an ancient Chinese recipe over 48 hours by dedicated duck chefs, the dish is glazed with sugar and cooked in a wood-fired oven and made into three delectable dishes.

First the crispy skin is served dipped in fine granulated sugar followed by homemade pancakes with sweet sauce and shredded leek and cucumber or the same with garlic paste with radish and Tientsin cabbage. The next serving is split into four options allowing diners to fully experience the balance of the duck meat: minced duck with lettuce wrap, salted vegetable soup with duck and tofu, fried rice with diced duck or fried noodles with sliced duck.

With some of the best Chinese cuisine in the capital, Min Jiang celebrates its continued legacy over the past decade with a ‘best of’ menu featuring 10 of the restaurant’s most-loved and legendary dishes.

Available for £60, the menu includes Beijing Duck, crispy fried squid, steamed Dim Sum, Min Jiang steamed Xiao long boa with blue swimmer crab meat, tofu with morel mushrooms in black bean sauce, string beans with minced chicken, diced rib eye of beef with black pepper sauce, stir fried baby pak choi and a fresh fruit platter.

To mark the significant 10th anniversary occasion, exemplary Austrian winemaker Lenz Moser has hand-picked three of his signature Chinese wines to complement the selected dishes. At £130pp for groups of six, diners can experience wine pairings of Friendly Gruner Veltiner, Château Changyu Mose XV White Cabernet Ningxia 2016, Château Changyu Mose XV Sauvignon Ningxia 2015 and Château Changyu Moser XV Ninxia 2013.

As we arrived at Min Jiang we were shown to our table with a stunning view over looking Kensington Gardens. It was so nice to sit back and relax and take shade from the summer sun in a beautifully air conditioned room. As we took in our surroundings we were offered a refreshing cocktail and a non-alcoholic wine from the 10th Anniversary menu.

The 10th Anniversary menu starts with a dumpling platter. These wonderful creations are the perfect way to whet the appetite. The dumplings starting from the top going clockwise are the truffle dumpling, lobster dumpling, black pepper duck dumpling and the Alaskan king crab dumpling. The dumplings we soft with great texture. Time had clearly been taken in making them as the crab (shaped as a fish) exploded with fresh flavour with slight sweetness that made you want to go back for more. All dumpling were generously filled and a great way to start the meal ahead.

After our starter we were presented with the anniversary wood-fired Beijing duck. This comes in three stages the first is the skin of the duck assembled with Chinese mushroom fried wanton and truffle. This dish blew us away.

Come in for a closer look…

The second stage is a more traditional way of serving duck but with a twist. You have peking sauce with cress and mushroom

The third presentation of duck is a divisive dish l loved it my dining companion preferred it the other two ways.

For us the next dish was a show stopper. Langoustines in Sichuan Chilli sauce provide the perfect amount of heat spice and succulence. Served with a broth of chilli delight.

How much would you pour on yours? We went crazy and loved every mouthful.

Make sure you save room for dessert with a very special 10 year anniversary inscribed fondant, the Malibu parfait with compressed pineapple, chocolate and hazelnut crumb did not disappoint.

Min Jiang at Royal Garden Hotel
10th Floor, 2 – 24 Kensington High Street, London W8 4PT
020 7361 1988
www.minjiang.co.uk
@minjianglondon