London’s most iconic garden centre is sprouting new roots in Covent Garden this weekend. Alongside a French themed soiree, al fresco yoga and a film club; here’s what we’ll be doing…
Words Helen Brown
BILLY & JACK’S SUPPER CLUB
MasterChef 2016 finalists Billy & Jack are bringing their sell-out supper club to Southbank. As part of the British Summertime weekend, the duo will create fun and inventive sharing plates that celebrate the much-loved flavours of summer. Menu highlights include salted Cornish sardines with heritage tomatoes and roasted quinoa and Notting Hill Carnival inspired jerk hanger steak.
BALLS & CO SUMMER SHAKEDOWN
Join Company Below, the underground speakeasy tucked beneath Balls & Company, for their Summer Shakedown series. The shakedown will see four of London’s best bartenders host an intimate one off cocktail masterclass. Each will create a signature drink to run on the menu for one week only. Gabriele Manfredi, Head Bartender at the award winning Oriole in Smithfield Market, will be hosting the next masterclass. He will be taking inspiration from the fruits of exile, empire and exploration, in a class themed on a trip around the world featuring flavours from the far flung corners of the earth.
COVENT JARDIN
Covent Garden is going French for a fortnight to celebrate its abundance of chic French brands, al fresco café culture and delicious dining spots. Expect tutorials, masterclasses, French food, cocktails and more.
#NODATENIGHT
For one night only, leading dating app, Badoo, is putting a stop to lovers locking lips in the back row and banning couples from Rooftop Film Club. This weekend singletons are welcomed to #NoDateNight. Expect an evening of complimentary cocktails, food and a screening of everybody’s favourite Will Smith rom-com, Hitch. Friends and family members are more than welcome, but strictly no dates.
Admission is free, but those looking to come along will need to register here.
PETERSHAM NURSERIES
This week Petersham Nurseries opened its doors in Covent Garden, bringing nature and elegance to the heart of London. There are two parts, both of which are true to the horticultural origins of the family business and the heritage of Covent Garden’s past. The Shop offers homeware, furniture and gifts, including one-of-a-kind pieces and exquisite antiques. The Delicatessen evokes the sense of an Italian alimentari with jams, honey, muesli, Italian style sandwiches, British and Italian cheese, charcuterie, fresh pasta and sauces. If that’s not enough, there is also a florist and wine cellar and two restaurants set to open at a later date.
CELLAR MENU AT DANDELYAN
New this summer at Mondrian London’s Dandelyan is their exclusive ‘Cellar Menu’. On offer is a selection of extra special cocktails, available exclusively on request from a big leather book. The menu uses fine spirits that can be only created on a smaller scale due to the technical and intricate processes required. Try a Bluegrass Fizz made from Woodford Reserve Rye Whiskey, lemon and bluegrass soda.
OLIVER TWIST FOR EVERYONE AGED SIX AND OVER
Please sir, can I have some more? Take a riotous journey through the streets of London to discover the original story of Victorian London’s most famous orphan. Directed by Caroline Byrne, Oliver Twist created for everyone aged six and over is fun for the whole family and finishes its run at the Regent Park Open Air theatre this weekend. Royal Court playwright Anya Reiss’ adaptation brings Dickens’ story to a whole new audience. It will have you on the edge of your seat and wanting more.
AL FRESCO YOGA & BRUNCH
Rotunda Bar & Restaurant are combing two of London’s favourite things – yoga and brunch – in a short summer series. Take part in an al fresco yoga class on their canal-side terrace, followed by a healthy brunch. Organised by Good Yoga Life instructor Kelly McHugh, the energising Vinyasa yoga will leave you feeling relaxed, refreshed and uplifted.
