This week is one of foodie invitations and gatherings with friends, whether cooking new recipes in familiar places or trying out freshly-opened venues.
Top on our list? London’s newest design district has unlocked its doors on Pimlico Road, while the Southbank’s festive programme makes for an exciting and wholesome winter night out.
From celebrating Diwali and prepping for Christmas, to hosting at home or going out for long, friendly brunches, we’re doing it with fun and ease. This is what we’re loving in this week’s hotlist.
GIFT THIS The Good Host, Juana Pepa
Argentine food writer Juana Pepa lets us in on her hosting tips that make having guests a breeze. But a good host is not only a host at home, they are a host in life too. With this philosophy as its premise, The Good Host – the third book by Pepa – encompasses everything one needs to know to master the art of hosting. Whether it’s the easy-to-accomplish yet inviting recipes and the relaxed nonchalant style that she brings to hosting (thanks to time spent in both Buenos Aires and Madrid), or her approach to menu design, list of must-have utensils in the kitchen, and knowledge of essential courtesies when welcoming guests into your home – this new book provides an essential gift for anyone who loves to gather with their friends.
BUY THIS Jimmy Choo Diwali collection
Jimmy Choo has just unveiled its Diwali collection for 2023, inspired by the rich heritage and traditions of Diwali. Dipped in lustrous shades of bronze and gleaming gold, the collection reimagines classic silhouettes, painting the timeless Love Pump in a glittering rose gold ombre. The Romy heel arrives in a slightly more subdued – but still glamorous – champagne leather, while the Saeda platform sandal steps forward with an extravagant crystal ankle strap, standing out amongst the pack. The patent leather gold Bing follows suit with a bedazzled strap, while the Anise wedge boasts bronze coarse glitter detailing, substituting the usual cork for something far more special for Diwali. A celebration of the sparkle and splendour of the festival of lights, this capsule perfectly captures the holiday essence, ushering in opulent footwear for the season.
GO HERE Newson's Yard
As of 1 November, Newson’s Yard has officially opened its doors on Pimlico Road, as London’s latest design destination. Built in 1840 as a timber yard, the space maintains its original character while offering modern spaces for a roster of design brands. These include: Sweden’s Modernity design gallery; Martin Brudnizki and Nicholas Jeanes’ And Objects; and Plain English kitchens. Including pick-and-mix furnishings, visit to get your hands on exclusive pieces that aren’t available anywhere else. A programme of events will animate the space throughout the year, bringing together the local design community and connecting Newson’s Yard with the larger Pimlico Design District. Open from January 2024 is Wildflowers & Wine, a modern European all-day bistro led by chef Aaron Potter. The restaurant will take over two floors on one side of the arcade, offering after-hours entertainment in the arcade.
SEE THIS Nutcracker At The Tuff Nutt Jazz Club, Southbank Centre
No Christmas period is complete without a festive production, and enchanting ballets, musicals and plays are top of the list for festive cheer. But if your traditional trip to the theatre could do with some spirited mischief, Nutcracker at the Tuff Nutt Jazz Club is a jazzy new take on Tchaikovsky’s classical ballet. Reimagined by director and choreographer Drew McOnie, with an on-stage jazz band by multi-award winning jazz artist Cassie Kinoshi, the production is full of light and adventure, making for a brilliant winter’s night out. After the weekend performances, audiences are invited to continue their evening at the club which will host live music sessions from leading artists into the night. – Gemma Louise Deeks.
EAT HERE 65a, Spitalfields
Brasserie-style restaurant 65a brings laid-back, French-inspired dining to the edge of the iconic Spitalfields Market. An elegant yet uncomplicated menu of classic dishes, peppered with French inflections, gives a nod to the area’s rich and diverse history. Choose from small plates or individual mains featuring French onion soup, Carlingford oysters and Fillet steak with Café de Paris butter, or opt to feast on sharing dishes including grilled lobster and free-range rotisserie chicken. A number of French rosé wines lead the restaurant’s wine list, alongside crisp whites sourced predominantly from France and a selection of big, bold reds from the Mediterranean and beyond. You’ll also find a good selection of signature and quirky cocktails, such as the Green Mango Margarita (tequila, mezcal, caraway liqueur, green mango and tajin). The 155-cover, former bank’s stripped-back interiors give emphasis to the natural light flooding in thanks to impressive arched windows, while the expansive terrace, bar and private dining areas are a welcome all-day dining addition to the area, championing traditional French cooking.
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