London is always buzzing with exciting new experiences, and this weekend is no exception! From refined dining and groovy live music to cutting-edge art and paw-some pet-friendly treats, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into the highlights!
Exquisite Eats and Elevated Nightspots
The Kolomba restaurant group is renowned for its authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, and their latest venture in east London takes things to a whole new level. The spacious and sophisticated setting, designed by the renowned Fare Inc. studio, is a far cry from the homely vibes of the Soho location. But don’t worry, the delicious flavors remain! Small plates start at just £4, while larger sharing dishes are around £12, making it possible to indulge in a fantastic meal for under £40.
Moving on to the nightlife scene, The Cause is a popular club near the docklands. But the team behind this vibrant venue has decided to trade the DJ decks for small plates and fine wines. This is not their first rodeo, as they are also responsible for the successful openings of All My Friends, The Greyhound, and now Marquee Moon. And while Marquee Moon is a high-fidelity bar, it’s definitely the most food-forward of the bunch. Expertly crafted cocktails by Emmanuel Ferris-Hue, previously of The Ned and Disrepute, blend classic flavors with east Asian influences. The Pandan Old Fashioned, a bourbon-based concoction with clarified brown butter and demerara sugar, topped with a Pandan leaf, is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
A Weekend of Musical Extravaganza
If sophisticated entertainment is your thing, then the Battersea Park in Concert event is a must-attend. This bank holiday weekend, prepare to be swept away by the power of classical music, show tunes, and jazz. Myleene Klass, the charming host, will lead the opening day with masterpieces from Mozart and Tchaikovsky. On Saturday, “Night at the Musicals” will showcase the best-loved tunes from Chicago, Rent, The Greatest Showman, and Greece. And to close out the weekend, the Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Orchestra will take the stage with an afternoon of swinging jazz, afro-beats, and beloved standards.
Laughter and Legends at the Camden Fringe
For comedy enthusiasts, there’s no better place to be than the Camden Fringe this bank holiday weekend. It’s like a mini-Edinburgh Fringe with shows taking place across a myriad of venues, from pubs and theaters to comedy clubs and even impromptu spots. Work-in-progress acts rub shoulders with established performers, like the “Silliad,” an entirely improvised comic retelling of classic myths and legends. And the best part? Tickets are extremely affordable, starting at just £5, making it a can’t-miss event.
Killer Mike’s Return and a New Art Destination
Hip-hop fans are in for a treat as Killer Mike, fresh off his 2024 Grammy win for Rap Album of the Year, makes his long-awaited return to the UK stage. This Scala gig marks his first UK concert in a year and his first since his latest album, “Michael,” was nominated for a Grammy. Killer Mike’s thought-provoking lyrics explore racial injustice, his Atlanta upbringing, and life in post-Trump America. This is his first solo album in 11 years, and while he may not be selling out stadium tours, the energy at Scala is sure to be electric.
Central London’s art scene is also evolving, with the opening of Moco, a brand new art space located in a prime spot near Marble Arch. This ambitious venture has attracted some of the biggest names in contemporary art, making its inaugural exhibition a must-see. Works by Jean-Michel Basquiat, Andy Warhol, KAWS, Pablo Picasso, and Keith Haring are on display, showcasing a diverse and captivating collection. Moco is pushing boundaries by seamlessly blending physical and digital artworks, and with a huge new Marina Abramovic exhibition planned for September, this new gallery is making a bold statement.
Paws-itively Perfect Pet Treats
Let’s not forget our furry friends! This weekend, the vendors at Vauxhall’s Market Place are showering our four-legged companions with freebies. Yorkshire Burrito is offering Yorkie-shire pudding, Wicked Fish has hound-dock & chips, and Inamo Sukoshi is serving up paw-some poke. These pun-riddled treats are sure to make this weekend paw-sitively perfect for your doggy companions.
So, there you have it – a jam-packed weekend in London, with something for everyone. From gastronomic delights and musical masterpieces to cutting-edge art and pet-friendly treats, London has it all. So get out there and explore the city’s vibrant offerings!
