London, a city rich in culture and history, offers a diverse array of experiences that caters to various tastes. From hidden underground bars to innovative pasta labs and immersive film showings, the city is a treasure trove of culinary and entertainment delights. Join me on this 24 hours in London – Foodie Edition post (foodie couple style).
We drove to London mid afternoon and parked up by Farringdon, where our Premier Inn was. I would love to stay at some of the boutique hotels in London but atm the prices are eye watering. When Kev & I go to London, we go to explore the city so not having plush accommodation works for us.
Hokus Pokus: Unveiling the Alchemical Art of Mixology
Nestled underground, within the Megaro Hotel, Hokus Pokus is more than just a bar—it is an Alchemy lab that serves great potions. Upon stepping into this hidden gem, guests are transported into an enchanting world where copper rods, mood lighting, and potion boxes create an ambiance that’s both intriguing and immersive. The attention to detail is evident in every corner.
But it’s the drinks that truly steal the show at Hokus Pokus. The majority of the offerings are meticulously crafted in-house, from infused spirits to homemade fruit extracts. Each cocktail is a masterpiece, embodying the spirit of experimentation that the bar draws inspiration from. Notably, the Flamed and Smoked Potion range adds an element of theatricality to the experience. Bar manager and mixologist Greg Chudzio takes centre stage, creating flamed cocktails that dance with flavours right before your eyes. It’s a show-stopping experience that engages all the senses.
Spaglonetti: Crafting Pasta Perfection
For lovers of Italian cuisine, Spaglonetti offers a pasta-focused dining experience that’s both delicious and memorable. The restaurant, often referred to as a pasta lab, takes pride in preparing fresh pasta throughout the day. The minimalist interior with an open kitchen invites guests to witness the magic of pasta-making. The menu, though concise, strikes the perfect balance between options, catering to various dietary preferences.
We started our meal with refreshing Italian spritzers and beer followed by the culinary journey at Spaglonetti continues with culinary delights like Charcoal Arancini balls and Panelle. The pasta mains, served al dente, showcase the quality of ingredients and expert preparation. The Anglonoti, filled with cooked egg yolk and served with Guanciale, is a symphony of textures and flavours. The Rigatoni, coated in a cherry tomato sauce with spicy Nduja and Cacio Ricotta, tantalizes the taste buds with its intensity.
dirty dancing Taste Film: A Cinematic Gastronomic Adventure
For film enthusiasts with a taste for the extraordinary, Taste Film offers an immersive movie screening combined with a thoughtfully curated dining experience. The idea is the offer a themed menu to correspond to scenes from the film. Tickets go on sale around a month before the event. Be sure to sign up to their email list to get notification. You also get to see the menu to help you decide whether you want to go for the showing. Tickets are priced at £75 plus booking fees. Some screenings allow children and the ticket price is the same which I think it a bit steep.
For dirty dancing there was only an option of a Menu with beef and a Vegan menu. I would have expected at least a vegetarian menu. When queried, they said that is just the way it is.
The showings takes place at one of two venues. are at locations, The Refinery, City Point and The Parlour in Kensal Green. Dishes and drinks are served at precise moments, enhancing the connection between on-screen moments and dining sensations.
Dirty Dancing was shown at the Refinery, We were welcomed with flower garlands and shown to our seats. It was very exciting.
The host welcomed us, gave us a health & safety briefing then the movie began. Kev & I had the front seats allocated which was amazing.
During the movie we enjoyed:
- All american pot roast: Beef Brisket, Pomme Puree & Baby Carrot. The vegan option was ok. It would have been nice to have a bigger portion
- He’s one in a melon: Watermelon Spritz
- Late night leftovers: Cabbage Roll with Herby Pickle Relish. This could have done with more flavouring or umph
- Mambojit: Mango Mojito
- All inclusive breakfast buffet: Dirty Beef Breakfast Muffin (with Bacon & Egg) served with Hashbrowns, Guacamole & Salsa. The Vegan alternative was average. The guacamole could have been made better too
- Hula hanaaa: Pineapple Upside Down Cake with Vanilla Whipped Cream – delicious
The ambiance was great and relaxed. People singing, the odd laugh, it was an experience I would do again.
Dark Sugars: Indulging in Rich Hot Chocolate
There are some fabulous hot chocolate spots in London. When in Brick Lane make sure you pay a visit to Dark Sugars, a haven for hot chocolate aficionados. Expect a smooth, velvety, and adorned with decadent chocolate shavings. Here are the best hot chocolates in London.
Brick Lane’s Upmarket Market
Brick Lane is known for its Vintage markets and the famous Beignets. There is also Brick Lane’s Upmarket Market, where a world of culinary treasures awaits. From sugar cane juice to delectable muffins and bao buns, the market is a melting pot of global flavours. Amid the hustle and bustle, vendors offer a range of dishes that cater to various tastes. It can get overwhleming with the choice. We were for Korean cuisine . For £8 we got the small (though it is a large small) box, which came with rice rice and two flavourful dishes.
From hidden alchemical bars to pasta labs that redefine Italian cuisine and innovative cinematic dining experiences, London offers a plethora of options that cater to every craving and curiosity.
