London Food Month

This June, London Evening Standard and Diageo World Class Drinks have paired up to deliver London Food Month – a celebration of gastronomy in Kensington Gardens, featuring pop-up food stands and bars, as well as over 400 events across the capital. Sated meandered on down to the opening of the Night Market to see what was what.

London Food Month

Let’s be honest, what we’re essentially talking about here is a festival in a field. However, unlike at most such events, the food and drink are centre stage. Culinary connoisseurs such as The Ivy and Mews of Mayfair sit alongside the people’s heroes, including SMOKESTAK (expect to queue for a good long while), The Cheese Truck and Bad Brownie. On the beverage side of things, this show is very much run by Diageo, who are handling all things spirits, bringing their famous Ketel One Kitchen complete with Cocktail Masterclasses to the party; as well as a Bulliet Bourbon shack with live-art demonstrations from tattoo artists; a Don Julio Tequila caddie bar, and a World Class Bar. For those not quite ready to imbibe the strong stuff, Cobra beer has made its way along too.

London Food Month

The choice at London Food Month is plentiful and the atmosphere buzzy with DJs, live music and a Westfield Open-Air Cinema completing the entertainment offerings. Open from 5pm till 10:30pm Monday to Thursday, this is the perfect spot to hang out after work with friends, or to take a date. The hours are extended at the weekend too so if the weather is any good, you might as well make a day of it. If not, there is a large covered area with tables and drinks (which somewhat resembles a German Beer Hall) that can be taken advantage of. We heartily recommend a Masterclass at Ketel One with Arj or another of the Ketel One bartenders. Here you will get the chance to learn how to make a Dutch Mule, as well as participating in a multi-sensory experiment exploring how soundscapes alter the perception of taste. All in all, the Night Market at London Food Month is a relaxed foodie haven where you can sit back and wait for Summer to happen.

To find out more about London Food Month and ticket pricing, visit the website here. See below for a full list of Diageo Reserve World Class events taking place at London Food Month this June.

 

BRUNCH

Fancy a boozy brunch with some of the best Bloody Mary’s in town? Of course you do! Ketel One are hosting four brunches across East and Central London.

Ketel One Dutch Brunch at Paradise Garage with Symmetry Breakfast

Ketel One will launch a series of Dutch Brunches at Bethnal Green hotspot, Paradise Garage during London Food Month. The brunches will be comprised of dishes created by the expert chef team from Paradise Garage, Simon Woodrow and Patrick Williams and Michael Zee, whose Dutch husband Mark was the inspiration behind his now globally recognised Instagram feed – Symmetry Breakfast. Guests can enjoy a menu inspired by traditional Dutch ingredients and foods, combined with contemporary ideals of Brunch dishes. Guests will be able to enjoy inside or (British weather permitting!) out on the sunny terrace at the newly launched Ketel One bar.

Address: Paradise Garage, 254 Paradise Row, London E2 9LE
Date: Sunday 25th June
Opening Times: 11am-3pm
Cost: Price per dish
To Book: 020 7613 1502 or reservations@paradise254.com

Ketel One Disco Brunch at Paradise Garage

A Brunch with a party twist is taking place at East London’s buzziest hotspot, Paradise Garage. Included in the price attendees can enjoy food aplenty and a welcome drink curated by Ketel One Vodka. Ketel One will be popping up a bar outside that will be serving up signature drinks all summer long.

Address: Paradise Garage, 254 Paradise Row, London E2 9LE
Date: 11th June
Opening Times: 2pm until late
Cost: £30
To Book: 020 7613 1502 or reservations@paradise254.com

Ketel One Vodka Weekend Brunch at aqua kyoto

Every weekend throughout London Food Month, guests can enjoy Ketel One Vodka Bloody Marys alongside aqua kyoto’s spin on the perfect brunch. Executive chef Paul Greening offers contemporary Japanese dishes at this exclusive brunch feast.

Address: 5th Floor, 240 Regent Street, (Entrance on 30 Argyll St, W1F 7EB), London W1B 3BR
Dates: Weekends
Opening Times: 12-4pm
Cost: £65
To Book: 020 7478 0540 or http://aquakyoto.co.uk/reservation/booking

MNKY HSE Ketel One Brunch Party

Mayfair’s latest hotspot, MNKY HSE, has transformed their usual Brunch Party with the help of Ketel One Vodka Bloody Marys that have been masterfully paired with an exciting menu curated by executive head chef Pablo Peñálosa Najera. Guests will enjoy a contemporary Latin American meal whilst enjoying the musical delights of numerous international DJ sets and live music performances.

Address: 10 Dover St, Mayfair, London W1S 4LD
Date: 25th June
Opening Times: 2-7pm
Cost: Price per dish
To Book: 020 3870 4880 or reservations@mnky-hse.com

 

WORLD CLASS COCKTAILS

Whisky, cocktails, vodka and gin – what more could you ask for? How about being guided on your journey through Diageo’s range by some of the most knowledgeable people in the industry? Be sure not to miss the masterclass at one of our favourite whisky dens, Black Rock (read our review here), or a visit to Ryan “Mr Lyan” Chetiyawardana’s world-renowned Dandelyan.

Talisker Whisky Masterclass Paired with Delicacies from Black Rock

At Black Rock guests will be able to experience an exclusive Talisker whisky masterclass hosted by Brand Ambassador Ali Reynolds. Visitors will be expertly guided through a flight of five Talisker whiskies paired alongside delicious delicacies from Black Rock. The ultimate in luxury drinking experiences in this trendsetting bartender’s hub.

Address: Black Rock – 9 Christopher Street EC2A 2BS
Date: 15th June
Opening Times: From 5pm
Cost: £15
To Book: 0207 998 7676 or hello@blackrock.bar

Cocktail and Croquetas at aqua nueva

Cocktailing pedigree hits new heights at Spanish hotspot aqua nueva. Expect a masterfully created World Class cocktail paired with seafood croquetas. Bar manager Nico Paratinos has created a Spanish-inspired cocktail with Ron Zacapa, manzanilla sherry, Pedro Ximenez sherry, almond syrup, lemon juice, absinthe, a pinch of salt and egg white. When paired with delicious Spanish nibbles makes for sheer, Spanish bliss.

Address: 5th Floor, 240 Regent Street, (Entrance on 30 Argyll St, W1F 7EB), London W1B 3BR
Dates: From June 5th to June 30th
Opening Times: 12pm-12am
Cost: £11.50
To Book: 0207 478 0540

St Martin’s Lane Summer Terrace

Tanqueray No. TEN will be casting their gin magic over one of London’s most sought-after terraces this Summer. Previously not open to the public this exclusive rooftop in Covent Garden will be transformed into a secret gin garden for two days only. One side will serve an English G&T afternoon tea and the other a tropical Cuban celebration, gin-lover’s sign up.

Address: 45 St Martin’s Ln, London WC2N 4HX
Dates: 1st – 30th June
To Book: 020 7300 5500

Bulleit Bourbon Food Pairing and cocktail evening with Live music at Oriole

Hidden beneath Smithfield Market awaits the acclaimed bar Oriole and its award-winning cocktail and food pairing menu. For one night only, Bulleit will co-host a whiskey and food pairing experience, with a tasting masterclass sampling Bulleit Bourbon, Bulleit Rye and the soon to be released Bulleit 10, all paired with dishes and light bites and set to the live music the bar is famed for. Guests will begin with The Appellation Forest Brew, a sharing serve using Bulleit Bourbon from Oriole’s recently released menu, followed by a tasting session of each Bulleit expression and a final Everglade cocktail using Bulleit Rye.

Address: Smithfield Markets, E Poultry Ave, London EC1A 9LH
Date: 11th June
Opening Times: 7-9pm
Cost: £20
To Book: 0203 457 8099 or info@oriolebar.com

World Class Masterclass at Dandelyan

Cocktail aficionados can head to Dandelyan, currently holding the title of third best bar in the world, for a unique and intimate World Class cocktail tasting experience with head bartender Aidan Bowie, crowned GB World Class Bartender in June 2016. Guests can expect a signature Dandelyan cocktail and Aidan will take guests through his journey to create a World Class menu featuring spirits including Ketel One Vodka, Tanqueray No. TEN and Bulleit Bourbon.

Address: Dandelyan – 20 Upper Ground SE1 9PD
Date: 17th June
Opening Times: 12pm-1.30pm
Cost: £110
To Book: 020 3747 1063

Talisker Whisky pairings with the best of British produce at Oblix

At Oblix, a destination bar and kitchen offering a refined urban experience and stunning cuisine, guests will taste the best of British produce. Dishes include shellfish from the Scottish isles and Herefordshire Beef, which will be paired with different years and rare barrels of Talisker’s finest whisky.

Address: Oblix, Level 32, The Shard, 31 St. Thomas Street, London SE1 9RY
Date: 14th June
Opening Times: 6.30pm-10pm
Cost: £150
To Book: 020 72686700 or info@oblixrestaurant.com

Old Bengal Bar

Ketel One Vodka will be putting an interesting twist on drinks at popular East End hotspot Old Bengal Bar. They’ll be serving a controversial cocktail mirroring a famous Italian favourite… Pasta Carbonara. Imagine fried bacon infused Talisker with Ketel One Vodka, homemade parmesan cream (homemade), egg yolk with black pepper and lemon!

Address: 16 New St, London EC2M 4TR
Opening Times: 12pm-11:30pm
Dates: Throughout June
To Book: 020 3503 0780 or danielaf@danddlondon.com

German Gymnasium Pudding Cocktail with Ketel One

Expect summer on a plate courtesy of the masters at Ketel One Vodka, who have carefully paired a selection of tasty picnic treats and a pudding cocktail for guests to enjoy throughout London Food Month.

Address: 1 King’s Boulevard, London, N1C 4BU
Dates: Throughout June
Opening Times: 12pm-11pm
To Book: 020 7287 8000 or reservations@germangymnasium.com

World Class cocktail and dessert pairing at Skylon

Ketel One Vodka will also be making an appearance at Skylon on the Southbank to create a delightful evening of cocktails, vistas and food to impress even the most sceptical Londoner. Take in the breathtaking view of the Thames whilst sipping on a ginger martini, paired with homemade lemon thyme shortbread

Address: Skylon – Skylon Royal Festival Hall, London, SE1 8XX
Dates: Throughout June
Opening Times: 12–2:30pm, 5–10:30pm
To Book: 020 7654 780 or skylonreservations@danddlondon.com

World Class cocktail and dessert pairing at Coq d’Argent

Ketel One Vodka have crafted a special London Food Month cocktail named the “Summer Flower”. This botanical treat containing sage and rose jam vodka has been specially paired with delicate floral macaroons.

Address: Coq d’Argent – Coq D’Argent No.1 Poultry, London, EC2R 8EJ
Dates: Throughout June
Opening Times: 12pm–12am
To Book: 020 3747 1063 or coqdargent@danddlondon.com

Celebrate Father’s Day with Oliver Sweeney and Talisker

This Father’s Day, join the Island malt from the windswept Isle of Skye, Talisker Whisky, and luxury British menswear designer Oliver Sweeney, as they partner to celebrate their extraordinary heritage in quality and craftsmanship and the limited-edition release of the “Made By the Sea” gift box. Hosted at the designer’s flagship store in Covent Garden, the evening will feature a flight of five Talisker Whiskies and delicious food pairings hosted by David Sinclair, Talisker Whisky Brand Ambassador.

Address: 10 Henrietta St, London WC2E 8PS
Dates: June 13th
Opening Times:
Cost: £30-£40
To Book: 020 7240 4549 or coventgarden@oliversweeney.com

World Class Dessert and Cocktail Pairing at Plateau

At Plateau Ketel One Vodka have created an outstanding Foodie cocktail in homage to Evening Standard’s London Food Month. ‘Allure’ contains a mixture of Ketel One Vodka, goji and chocolate liqueur with orange bitters paired with a gooey, indulgent chocolate brownie. Ideal for Canary Wharf dwellers looking for a bit of indulgence in the City.

Address: Plateau restaurant – 4th Floor, Canada Place London, E14 5ER
Dates: Throughout June
Opening Times: 12pm-10.30pm
To Book: 020 7715 7100 or plateaureservations@danddlondon.com

Hawksmoor Feast of Beasts

World Class Cocktails have specially paired a fleet of delectable Johnnie Walker cocktails to complement this decadent new six course tasting menu created exclusively for London Food Month. The evening will be presented by Hawksmoor Group Executive Chef, Richard H. Turner. This special menu is a true celebration of beef and the popularity of it’s suggested accompaniment Johnnie Walker Whisky.

Address: Hawksmoor Guildhall – 10 Basinghall Street EC2V 5BQ
Dates: 28th June
Opening Times: 5-10.30pm
To Book: 020 7397 8120 or guildhall@thehawksmoor.com

 

MASTERCLASSES

There’s no reason why every month can’t be Food Month. Learn from the best at a series of Masterclasses and wow your friends with your new-found knowledge and skills.

London Loves Wagyu, Meat Masterclass with Michael Reid, and London Loves Cocktails

London Loves Cocktails Head to the M Bar to create Don Julio tequila and Bulleit bourbon based cocktails for guests. Enjoy cocktails with a kick whilst enjoying some tasty light bites at this high-octane London bar.

Address: M, Threadneedle Street – Threadneedle Walk EC2R 8HP
Dates: Sunday 3rd June
Opening Times: 12pm-3pm
Cost: £15
To Book: 020 3327 7770 or enquiries@mrestaurants.co.uk

Martinis and Meringues at Quaglino’s

Quaglino’s will host a Martinis and Meringues pop-up with The Meringue girls in the iconic Mezzanine Bar. There will be meringue masterclasses and a paired menu with floral martinis and meringues.

Address: Quaglino’s – 16 Bury St SW1Y 6AJ
Dates: Throughout June
Opening Times: 5.30pm – 11.30pm
To Book: 020 7930 6767 or quaglinos@danddlondon.com

Cocktail Masterclass and Lunch Pont de La Tour

Master the art of cocktail making followed by a sumptuous lunch at this French hotspot. Cocktail masterclass and 3 course lunch at Bar & Grill. Learn how to make 3 cocktails followed by lunch.

Address: Le Pont de la Tour – 36D Shad Thames SE1 2YE
Dates: Saturdays June 10, 17 and 24
Opening Times: Masterclass at 11am, lunch at 12.30pm
To Book: 020 7403 8403 or lepontres@danddlondon.com

Cocktail Masterclass and Snacks for Two at the Blueprint Cafe

Celebrate summer with a masterclass in refreshing cocktails whilst looking out over unbeatable views across the river Thames. Learn how to make a Fairytale Martini, Kentucky Collins and its signature Burnt Orange Crisp while enjoying British canapés.

Address: Blueprint Cafe – 28 Shad Thames SE1 2YD
Dates: Every Thursday throughout June
Opening Times: 12-2.45pm, 6-12pm
Cost: £35 for two people
To Book: 020 7378 7031 or blueprintcafe@danddlondon.com