Kolomba has established itself as a top choice for Sri Lankan cuisine in London, and its newest venture in East London near Spitalfields marks a significant step forward. While the Soho location offers a cozy and familiar atmosphere, the E1 restaurant exudes a sense of sophistication and maturity, thanks to its elegant design by Fare Inc. The menu, however, remains true to its roots, featuring smaller plates starting at around £4 and larger sharing dishes from approximately £12. This means you can enjoy an exceptional dining experience here for less than £40, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious foodies.
From Nightclub to Gourmet Haven
The Cause, a popular clubbing destination near the docklands, has undergone a dramatic transformation. The DJ decks have been replaced with a focus on small plates and carefully curated wines. The team behind this venture has a proven track record, having launched successful establishments like All My Friends, The Greyhound, and now Marquee Moon. While Marquee Moon maintains its bar identity, it stands out as the most food-forward of their establishments.
The beverage program is led by Emmanuel Ferris-Hue, a renowned expert with experience at prestigious venues like The Ned and Disrepute. His focus is on independent beers and spirits, and the cocktail menu seamlessly blends classics with East Asian flavors. One intriguing example is the Pandan Old Fashioned, a bourbon-based cocktail infused with clarified brown butter, demerara sugar, and topped with a pandan leaf.
A Symphony of Sounds in Battersea Park
For a truly sophisticated experience, head to Battersea Park in Concert this bank holiday weekend. This grand event features a three-day program showcasing a diverse range of music, from classical proms and musical show tunes to captivating jazz performances.
The opening day, hosted by Myleene Klass, presents pieces from renowned composers such as Mozart and Tchaikovsky. Saturday’s “Night at the Musicals” promises an unforgettable evening of beloved tunes from iconic productions like Chicago, Rent, The Greatest Showman, and Grease. The weekend concludes with an afternoon of swinging jazz, Afro-beats, and jazz standards, delivered by the acclaimed Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Orchestra.
A Laugh-Filled Bank Holiday at the Camden Fringe
If you missed out on the comedy extravaganza in Scotland, fret no more! The Camden Fringe offers the perfect opportunity to indulge in a month of laughter right here in London. This festival, mirroring its Edinburgh counterpart, takes place across a wide range of venues, including pubs, theaters, comedy clubs, and even unconventional spaces where a microphone can be plugged in.
The lineup features a mix of work-in-progress acts and established performers. One highlight is the “Silliad”, an improvised comic retelling of classic myths and legends. Tickets are remarkably affordable, starting from as little as £5, making this a must-attend event for comedy enthusiasts.
Killer Mike Takes the Stage at Scala
Killer Mike, the Grammy Award-winning rapper, is set to perform at Scala, marking his first UK concert in a year and his first since his latest album, “Michael”, received a Grammy nomination. Known for his thought-provoking lyrics that delve into themes of racial injustice, his Atlanta upbringing, and life in post-Trump America, Killer Mike has a captivating stage presence. While his career has experienced fluctuations in recent years, his first solo album in 11 years has rekindled his passion and enthusiasm. The energy at Scala is sure to be electrifying as he takes the stage.
Moco: A New Art Space in Central London
Moco, a newly opened art space in Central London, occupies a unique location on Marble Arch, situated next to several short-lived ventures. Despite its challenging location, Moco has strategically chosen to showcase the biggest names in contemporary art, hoping to draw in a large audience.
Its inaugural exhibition features works by renowned artists such as Jean-Michel Basquiat, Andy Warhol, KAWS, Pablo Picasso, and Keith Haring. The space is designed to accommodate both physical and digital artworks, allowing for a dynamic and immersive experience. With a highly anticipated Marina Abramovic exhibition planned for September, Moco is making a bold and ambitious statement from the outset.
A Pawsome Weekend for Pet Owners
There’s no denying the fact that pets are expensive. However, this weekend offers some respite for pet owners with freebies for their furry companions at Vauxhall’s Market Place.
Vendors will be offering a range of paw-some treats, including Yorkie-shire pudding from Yorkshire Burrito, hound-dock & chips from Wicked Fish, and paw-some poke from Inamo Sukoshi. These pun-filled dishes are sure to delight your canine companions.
