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Tucked away on Putney’s Lower Richmond Road, RAAZ—meaning  secret  in Hindi, is a vibrant new addition to London’s modern Indian dining scene. With a bold cobalt façade that turns heads and an interior of rich walnut, floral wallpaper, and glinting gold accents, RAAZ sets the tone for what lies ahead: tradition wrapped in elegance, with a whisper of mystery. At the helm is Chef Imran Mansuri, whose pedigree includes some of London’s most acclaimed Indian restaurants—Tamarind, Benares, and Jamavar, where he helped earn a coveted Michelin star. At RAAZ, he unveils recipes passed down through generations, reimagined through the lens of contemporary gastronomy. The result? A menu that fuses India’s regional heritage with modern flair. Cocktails here are treated with the same reverence as the food. I began with the Golden Hour—a spirit-free tequila creation with mango and a chilli-dusted rim. It was a vibrant, fiery start that awakened the palate for what was to come. Other highlights include a turmeric gin and tonic, warmly spiced and made to pair perfectly with crisp poppadom and tangy chutneys. The wine list is smartly curated, focusing on bottles that can stand up to heat and spice—think crisp whites, structured reds, and celebratory bubbles. My companion opted for a glass of Cielo Brut Rosé, its delicate pink hue and clean finish dancing well with the spiced dishes to come. Then, the feast began. We started with the Truffle Mushroom Kulcha, stuffed with creamy goat’s cheese and perfect for scooping up the luscious juices of the Prawn Chettinad—a bold, southern-style dish layered with spice, savoy cabbage, and a punchy house tomato chutney. For mains, we couldn't resist the Malabar Fish Curry: a whole seabass bathed in a silky, Kerala-style coconut sauce. The fish was fresh and flaky, the curry subtle yet deeply satisfying. But the standout was the Overnight Beef Ribs Nihari—a dish I might have skipped without our waiter’s enthusiastic nudge. I’m glad I listened. The meat slid cleanly off the bone, with no trace of fat—just richness, depth, and that unmistakable slow-cooked magic. Sides of pulao rice, mixed vegetables, and warm roti completed the experience. Every element sang in harmony. Chef Imran’s reputation is well earned, and RAAZ showcases his creativity and precision in every bite. Though we were full, the dessert menu was irresistible. The Chocolate Delice hit the perfect balance—intensely chocolaty yet light, tempered by a scoop of coconut milk ice cream. Meanwhile, the Mango Kulfi, infused with cardamom and presented as an elegant ice cream stick, stayed true to the restaurant’s theme of spice-meets-sweet. RAAZ is not your typical curry house. It's a sensorial journey through India’s culinary soul—refined, surprising, deeply satisfying and very well priced. My dining companion, a seasoned traveller in India, declared it one of the most authentic yet imaginative Indian meals she’s had in London. A secret this good deserves to be shared. For more information click here . Words and photography by Claire Bloom

If you’ve ever found yourself aimlessly scrolling through Instagram (guilty!) and suddenly stopped dead in your tracks at the sight of a milkshake stacked with whipped cream, cake slices, chocolate bars, and actual magic… chances are, it was from Black Tap. Born in New York City and now making waves across the globe, this cult-favourite burger and shake spot has set up shop in the heart of Soho . Inside you are greeted with exposed brick walls, graffiti-style artwork, and a soundtrack straight out of a ‘90s house party. It’s fun, a little loud, unapologetically bold, and hard not to vibe with. There are two floors to explore, but make sure you don’t miss the milkshake bar downstairs. This is where the magic happens — you’ll see the shake masters in action, building those famous, gravity-defying creations that look like they were made for Instagram and built for your inner child. It’s part art show, part dessert theatre. To kick things off, I started with the chicken strips — golden, crispy, and surprisingly juicy inside. It came with three creamy dipping sauces, one of the sauces I loved more than I expected (more on that later...). For my main, it had to be a burger — because let’s be honest, its the burgers and the shakes people go crazy for! That said, if burgers aren’t your thing, there are plenty of other options: fish sandwiches, chicken sandwiches and fresh, but I was here for the classic Black Tap experience. I went with the Wagyu Steakhouse Burger (minus the cheese) — a rich wagyu patty topped with crispy onions, A1 steak sauce, and roasted garlic mayo, served open-style so you get to do the assembling, with sweet potato fries. The burger was well cooked, but I wasn’t a massive fan of the sauce it came with, so I opted for my favourite sauce that came with the chicken strips. It brought the burger to life and it complemented the fries as well. But let’s be honest, the real headliner here is the CrazyShake. I went all in with the Snickers crazyShake - vanilla rim with chocolate chips and peanuts, snickers, ice cream, vanilla and caramel ice cream sandwich. It was a chocolate explosion topped ample whipped cream, a snickers bar, digestive biscuit and chocolate drizzle. It’s over-the-top in the best way. I would highly recommend not ordering it with your main, as it’s a full on dessert and it will melt by the time you finish your burger. (Yes this I exactly what happened to me..). These shakes are so popular, some people just come in to order a CrazyShake.  If you’re into bold flavours, big portions, and don’t mind getting a little messy, Black Tap is a must. It’s not trying to be fancy — just really  good at what it does. Come hungry especially if you are ending with a CrazyShake. For more information and to book click here . Address: 4 Glasshouse Street, London, W1B 5DQ Written by Nyla S. Interior image courtesy of Black Tap

Already established across India and Dubai, China Bistro is set to make its UK debut in Ealing Broadway this October. Celebrated for its unique “retro-Chinese” cuisine inspired by Kolkata’s Tangra district, the restaurant blends Hakka wok-fired cooking with India’s bold spices. On the menu expect freshly folded momos, live robata grills, and wok classics. Highlights include Chicken Basil Dumplings, Mao’s Favourite Chicken, Edamame Momos with Truffle Oil, and Togarashi Wagyu, plus sweet favourites like crispy honey-drizzled Darsaan. The 90-cover space features olive-green interiors, an open kitchen, and live dim sum counters – perfect for long lunches or lively dinners. Drinks include signature cocktails, jasmine teas, and Asian-inspired wines. Expect plenty retro nights and Dumpling masterclasses to fire up your skills in the kitchen. Already an award-winning brand, China Bistro’s arrival promises to bring a fiery, flavour-led dining experience to West London in October. Address: China Bistro 5-6 The Green, Ealing, W5 5DA For more information click here .  Written by Claire Selsby Photos courtesy of China Bistro

On Sunday 19 th October, the historic Actors Church in Covent Garden will be transformed into a glittering haven of music , theatre , and celebration, all in honour of female empowerment. For one night, guests are invited to experience An Evening of Joy, a mesmerising showcase of talent, heart, and the West End. Tthink Phantom of the Opera, Miss Saigon, Les Misérables to name a few, along with Drew Jaymson (Mama Mia & Jesus Chris Superstar) And English National Operas Own Baritone, Alaric Green. Expect everything from Les Mis classics to George Michael hits. Guests will be treated to English sparkling wine, delicious macarons, and a raffle packed with amazing prizes such as tickets to Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Magic Mike Live, Cabaret, and even a one-on-one makeup session at Charlotte Tilbury.  Most importantly, this event supports a powerful cause. All proceeds go to The Joy of You (CIC) supporting  women as they navigate grief and trauma. Tickets are available now at An Evening of Joy £55 Premium £45 Standard   Address: An Evening Of Joy, St Pauls Church, Bedford Street, London, WC2E 9ED Written by Lorna Bryn

This Autumn, from 20th October to 30th November, the Royal Albert Hall is serving up more than world class entertainment, its putting on a culinary showstopper in celebration of Black History Month. Chef Kerth Crumbs is bringing his signature style and Caribbean heritage to turn up the heat in a special limited time dining pop-up at the Elgar Room Brasserie. Known for his vibrant flavours at Sky Garden, 20 Fenchurch Street, Kerth’s limited edition menu is sure to be a hit for pre-show dining. Think curried goat on warm pita, spiced fish skewers with charred pineapple and guacamole to  jerk chicken burgers, grilled mackerel with tamarind glaze, and even a veggie kofta sausage roll. Sides like Mac & Cheese with smoked scamorza, spiced wedges with jalapeño cheese sauce, and caramelised parsnips with crispy bacon and maple mayo round things off nicely. A children’s menu is also available, making this a family-friendly dining option for all ages. The Kerth Gumbs Elgar Room Brasserie pop-up is available exclusively to Royal Albert Hall ticket holders, priced at £54 for two courses or £62 for three courses, including bread, butter and amuse bouche. It's on for a limited time only so reserve your table soon, for more info. click here .   Address: The Elgar Room Brasserie – Royal Albert Hall, London, SW7 2AP

A new chapter has begun on Kensington High Street. After eight successful years, local favourite Zuaya closed its doors in August 2025. In its place, Bottega 35 opened on 1st September, bringing a fresh Tuscan spirit to W8. To celebrate the launch, guests can enjoy 30% off food and drinks throughout September. My guest and I visited midweek and were warmly welcomed by Lena, our waitress for the evening. Her service was a excellent: attentive, friendly, and genuinely passionate about the menu. She struck the perfect balance between professionalism and warmth, making us feel well looked after throughout the evening. We began with cocktails: the Bottega Fizz (rum, blue curaçao, Passoa) and the Anguria Cooler (vodka, fresh watermelon, lemon). Both were generously poured and reasonably priced for London at £15 and £14 respectively, an ideal way to ease into the evening while browsing the menu..     The starters arrived promptly. I opted for the Taleggio Arancini with Mushroom, crispy on the outside, and full of sumptuous flavour. My guest chose the Bruschetta Pesto with Stracciatella and Pistachio, which looked stunning and was quite tasty, but very filling and leaned a little too heavily on the creamy side. Definitely a dish better suited for sharing. For mains, I opted for the Fried Mixed Seafood with tagliatelle, parsley aioli, a generous portion of seafood tossed with tagliatelle with parsley aioli. While the presentation was inviting, the flavour fell a little flat for me. My guest, however, struck gold with the Seabass Bottega, a generous sized portion, served sitting on top of a tomato and caper sauce. It was a standout dish: fresh, beautifully cooked, and full of Mediterranean character. We shared two sides, Tomato Green Beans and Oven-Roasted Potatoes, both of which were well seasoned and satisfying. The house white and blush wines complemented the meal nicely, light, crisp, and of good quality. I recommend the blush. Dessert brought a touch of theatre with the Bottega Tiramisu, assembled tableside with a flourish. We also tried the classic canniloni, which had a sweet vanilla cream filling and a favourite for both of us. Bottega 35 is a beautifully styled restaurant that captures the warmth and convivial spirit of Tuscany. With its inviting ambiance, standout service—especially from Lena—and some memorable dishes, it’s a welcome addition to Kensington’s dining scene. The overall experience is charming, wellpriced, and worth a visit..   For more info and to book click here . Address: 35  Kensington High Street, London, W8 Written by Lorna Bryn

Tucked away just a short stroll from South Kensington station, Macellaio RC may appear from the outside to be a humble butcher shop — but step through its doors and you're transported into an atmospheric trattoria reminiscent of a Tuscan wine cellar. Deep red walls, rustic wooden tables, and an eye-catching and eccentric chandelier installation set the scene for what would be an unforgettable dining experience. Macellaio — which translates to "butcher" — is no ordinary steakhouse. This Italian gem specialises in expertly sourced beef, with an unwavering commitment to sustainability and respect for both animal welfare and the environment. The restaurant’s carbon-positive supply chain is a result of close partnerships with Lake District Farms and select Italian producers, allowing the team to personally meet every farmer and handpick every breed. We were invited to experience Macellaio’s halal offering — a thoughtfully curated menu that highlights their uncompromising standards of quality and flavour. We began with a signature special Beef Tonnato — tender slices of Lake District beef dressed with an airy tuna and caper sauce. Unexpectedly delicate, the tuna blended seamlessly with the capers, creating a lighter, more nuanced alternative to a traditional horseradish. The meat - feather light, and although the portion was incredibly generous, the dish does not make you feel overly full. Leaving plenty of room for the delicious courses to come.  On the advice of our server, this dish was paired with a glass of  Ginestrino Langhe Nebbiolo , a wine supremely refined, fresh and easy drinking. Next, we tried the Beef Carpaccio, featuring paper-thin slices of raw Merrango beef topped with rocket and a magnificent heap of shaved parmesan. Despite its hearty appearance, the dish again felt light and effortless—a testament to the kitchen's finesse. Moving on to the main course, the highlight of the evening was the fillet steak, a premium cut from the Marango breed — a cross between Angus Aberdeen and Italy’s Maremmana or Frisona cattle. Raised on an organic, Omega 3 and 6-rich diet, the meat is unparalleled in tenderness and flavour. Ours was served medium rare and sliced like butter, paired beautifully with a full-bodied and seductively rich  Cabernet Sauvignon . Alongside our steak, we chose the Galletto al Mattone — free-range chicken grilled under a brick, infused with herbs and olive oil, crisp on the outside and succulent within. With such a fantastic steak as competition, the chicken had a lot to live up to, but it certainly was not to be outshone, and for those who don’t want to overly indulge in red meat, the chicken is also an outstanding choice as a main course. A special mention must go to the glazed honey carrots — an unexpected triumph. Perfectly balanced sweetness with earthy herbs, they were savoury, aromatic, and an ideal complement to the richness of the meats. The mixed salad, crisp and refreshing, added a welcome contrast, along with the crunchy chips; this exceptional combination completed the table. We ended with a classic Tiramisu, elegantly presented, with light, airy Mascarpone; this could quite easily be the best version I’ve ever tried. Teamed with fresh mint tea to aid digestion, the combination rounded off the evening on a sweet, soothing note. Overall, we had a fantastic evening, the food is farm fresh, and you can taste the difference. The staff are warm and engaging — knowledgeable without pretension. Service was attentive and genuine throughout the evening. Whether you’re looking to impress a steak-loving friend or simply want to indulge in high-quality meat with a conscience, you should have this restaurant on your culinary radar. With additional locations in Soho and Exmouth Market, Macellaio RC is a dining experience not to be missed. For more info. and to book click here . Written by Claire Bloom Image two by Claire Bloom Image one and three courtesy of Macellaio RC

After over 2.5 million visitors in Europe, America, Asia and Australia, Banksy Limitless comes to London! The temporary exhibition will open on September 25th, offering a retrospective of Banksy’s creations, and an opportunity to step inside his world. This temporary exhibition brings together 250 pieces, including certified originals, rare works, large-scale installations, and digital works. It features one of the biggest collections of Banksy’s art ever shown in one place, with detailed reproductions using his signature stencil technique. A documentary made exclusively for the show offers a deeper look into Banksy’s life and creative process, with insights shared by fellow artists and collaborators about his innovative art. Click the link here to buy tickets if you want to immerse yourself in Banksy’s art and his wide-ranged impact. Address: 79 - 85 Old Brompton Road, SW7 3LD Tickets from £18 on Fever Written by Alexandra Herlaut Reinhardt Photography courtesy of Banksy Limitless Exhibition Link to PR Package : https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1yBBjxIvlP5gsTBYKzI-ZkFss__e3aieY

Corner Corner recently released their new programme of weekly events, running from Monday through Sunday from September 22nd to December 31st. From live podcast recordings to DJ sets, exhibitions, live music, and sporting activities, the line-up exhibits a great variety of events to attend. Corner Corner also has the largest commercial indoor vertical farm, developed by Harvest London, as well as a KERB-curated food hall to enjoy all year round. Corner Corner is the product of the Canada Water Masterplan, an initiative to bring culture, sustainability and community to the neighborhood. As such, it is way more than a venue for entertainment: it is a cultural hub, designed to bring people together. You can find the full lineup by clicking here . Written by Alexandra Herlaut Reinhardt Photography courtesy of Corner Corner

To mark the 50th anniversary of the Golden Shears Awards, widely known as the  “Oscars of the tailoring world” , London’s iconic Saville Row is hosting a two week celebration during London Fashion Week 2025. Founded in 1974 by Robert Bright, MBE, the Golden Shears Awards are held biennially and continue to spotlight innovation, craftsmanship and the nationwide talent pipeline, from student designers to apprentice tailors. Supported by The Pollen Estate and The Savile Row Bespoke Association, the awards remain a vital platform for nurturing the next generation of British tailoring. Bringing together Savile Row’s renowned houses, including the likes of Henry Poole & Co, Huntsman, Richard James, Dege & Skinner, Knatchbull, clothsurgeon and more, this years free to attend event will showcase designs from past winners and entrants. Their work will be displayed in tailoring house windows across the Row, giving the public a rare glimpse into the legacy and future of British bespoke fashion. Complementing the street-wide display, The London Academy of Bespoke will stage a dedicated exhibition at 19 Savile Row, tracing the history of the awards and celebrating past champions. Dates:  From Monday 15 September 2025 to Saturday 27 September 2025 (inclusive)  Time : 10am-5pm (except Sunday)  Address:  Window displays at featured tailoring houses on Savile Row include Gieves & Hawkes, Henry Poole & Co., Huntsman, Richard James, Dege & Skinner, clothsurgeon, Knatchbull and a dedicated exhibition at The London Academy of Bespoke (The LAB), 19 Savile Row.   For more information, click here .    Written by Jordan Crowley Photography by Matt Crossick/PA Media

Stepping into TH@51 Restaurant & Bar, we were instantly welcomed with warmth and friendliness – the kind of greeting that sets the tone for a memorable dining experience. The interior strikes a beautiful balance between elegance and comfort, with a soft, inviting colour palette, polished wooden tables, and plush seating that instantly makes you want to linger. We were seated in the covered seating area, which offered a lovely vantage point overlooking the courtyard. Even though the courtyard was closed that afternoon, its beauty was undeniable. Guests drifted over during our meal to capture photos of its serene charm – a clear testament to how special the space is. On a warm, sunlit day, it would be the perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely meal, a glass in hand, while soaking in the tranquil surroundings. Once settled, the menu demanded our full attention. It’s a globe-trotting collection of dishes, each drawing on flavours and inspirations from around the world. For my starter, I chose the Sumac Garlic Prawns – plump prawns delicately fried in batter, served with beetroot tzatziki and sprinkled with garlic flakes. The first bite was an absolute delight: the light, crispy shell giving way to tender, perfectly cooked prawns, with the creamy tang of the tzatziki adding a refreshing twist. It was bold yet balanced, and most importantly, addictive – a starter that leaves you excited for what’s to follow. From the larger plates, the Masala Salmon immediately caught my eye. As a lover of salmon, the idea of it being infused with spice and flavour was irresistible. I asked our waiter for his thoughts, and his enthusiastic recommendation sealed the deal – his eyes lighting up as he declared it one of his favourites. And he was right. The dish was a triumph: the salmon, tender and succulent, beautifully enhanced by the masala spice that added depth without it being overwhelming. It was paired with a risotto that was creamy, comforting, and perfectly cooked – a wonderful harmony of textures and flavours. The dessert menu offered yet another delightful fusion, The Gulab Jamun Cheesecake caught my attention, Gulab Jamun has always been one of my favourite Indian sweets, and the idea of marrying it with cheesecake was too tempting to resist. The first spoonful was heavenly – smooth, rich, and velvety, with the surprise of Gulab Jamun chunks adding bursts of sweetness and texture. It was refreshing yet familiar, and in my opinion, even surpassed the traditional version. A true showstopper of a dessert, and the perfect way to end an extraordinary meal. A beautiful place to dine and be treated to dishes that have been tweaked to surprise and delight, with a loved one for a special occasion or with a group of friends For more information and to book click here . Address: 51 Buckingham Gate, London, SW1E 6AF Written by Nyla S

Dylon is back at London Fashion Week with its boldest and most vibrant activation yet — the “Refresh & Renew Laundrette”. A one-of-a-kind pop-up experience inviting guests to rediscover their wardrobe and explore a more sustainable approach to style. Located in London’s fashionable Carnaby Street, this not-to-be-missed the pop-up runs from Thursday 18th to Sunday 21st September 2025, as part of London Fashion Week’s City-Wide Celebrations, transforming an ordinary laundrette into a dynamic fashion hub celebrating creativity, self-expression, and conscious living. A Celebration of Sustainable Style Inspired by Dylon’s Triple Renew Technology — which gently cleans, revitalises colour, and renews fabric fibres in just 10 washes — the laundrette will become a space to refresh your clothes and recharge your mindset. Whether you're looking to revive a beloved outfit or discover new ways to make your wardrobe work harder, this immersive experience encourages fashion lovers to rethink what “new” really means. Personalised Styling Sessions with Industry Experts Throughout the pop-up, guests can take part in exclusive styling sessions led by leading sustainable stylists Victoria Lee and Rebekah Roy. These 60-minute sessions will explore how to breathe new life into old favourites, offering upcycling tips, styling tricks, and practical advice to extend the life of your clothing. Those who book a styling session will also receive a complimentary designer scarf, created in partnership with Marques Almeida, in celebration of their S/S 2026 collaboration with Dylon. All sessions are approx. 60 mins. Full timings below. 18TH SEPTEMBER · Sustainable Styling with Victoria Lee – 11-12pm, 1-2pm, 3-4pm, 5-6pm 19TH SEPTEMBER · Sustainable Style Workshop with Rebekah Roy – 11-12pm, 1-2pm, 3-4pm, 5-6pm, 7-8pm 20TH SEPTEMBER · Sustainable Styling with Victoria Lee – 10:30-11:30am, 12-1pm, 1:30 - 2:30pm, 3-4pm, 4:30-5:30pm 21ST SEPTEMBER · Sustainable Styling with Victoria Lee – 11-12pm, 1-2pm, 3-4pm Drop In & DIY: The Repair & Renew Station No time for a full session? Just swing by with a well-worn item that could use some love. The Repair & Renew Station will be open throughout the pop-up, offering: Quick fixes like button replacements and zip repairs Easy mending techniques for holes or loose seams and Expert advice on garment care to keep your clothes lasting longer And if you're feeling lucky, don’t miss your chance to win exclusive prizes — or snap a stylish keepsake photo inside the Dylon Drum photobooth. 
Entry to the launderette is free. Masterclass tickets are £7.50, with proceeds donated to the British Fashion Council Foundation https://www.britishfashioncouncil.co.uk/BFC-Foundation To book masterclass tickets, click here . Written by Claire Bloom Photo courtesy of Dylon