The London dining scene is apparently unstoppable, with no less than five openings this week. As always, we’ll be road testing the lot to keep you in the loop with where’s hot and where’s not. It’s a tough life… Here’s what you’ve got to look forward to.
Bandol, Chelsea (above)
When: Opening Tuesday 13 October
What: This Chelsea newcomer (younger brother of the roaringly successful Margaux a few minutes up the road), aims to bring some southern French flair to the capital. In the generous spirit of the Riviera, the menu is designed for sharing, with lots of tapas-sized dishes as well as great bowls of red mullet and tiger prawn bouillabaisse.
Where: 6 Hollywood Road, SW10 9HY
Les Couilles du Chien, Soho (above)
When: Wednesday 14 October
What: Translating as ‘The Dog’s Bollocks’, the Arbutus crew’s sense of humour is apparently as spot on as their cooking, and this bar on the same Frith Street site shows all the flair of the restaurant. The menu incorporates meaty offerings that other chefs tend to overlook, so warm pig’s head with spiced mayo makes an appearance (so no doubt David Cameron will do too…).
Where: 63-64 Frith Street, W1D 3JW
Sutton & Sons, Islington (above)
When: Wednesday 14 October
What: Not just a fish and chip shop, these guys still operate as a fishmongers, so freshness and quality is second to none. Don’t expect the classic cod, scampi and fishcakes though (and woe betide anyone who asks for a battered sausage): tuna burgers, lobster subs, grilled oysters and moules marinière are order of the day.
Where: 356 Essex Road, N1 3PD
NT’s, Hackney (above)
When: Thursday 15 October
What: Probably the most successful pop up to hit the London scene has gone permanent with this London Fields offering – news that is likely to please the legions of fans it has gained since its humble genesis in a Dalston carpark a couple of years ago – but you’ll need a secret code to get in…
Where: 207 Netil House, 1 Westgate Street, E8 3RL
Mark’s Bar at The Old Vic, Waterloo (above)
When: Saturday 17 October
What: The latest offering from the unstoppable Mark Hix is this bar at The Old Vic (the first without his namesake restaurant attached), where you are likely to be drinking cocktails until the early hours with half the cast, so get your autograph books at the ready.
Where: The Old Vic, The Cut, SE1 8NB
This article was published 12 October 2015