Category: LONDON

New, rustic and comfy – Morty & Bob’s at Coal Drops Yard London is your new local

Posted: 23/05/2019

Morty & Bob’s was one of the early settlers of London’s new Coal Drop Yard open air entertainment and dining precinct just north of Kings Cross station and you’ll love what they’ve done with the place. They moved in, used the existing brickwork to their advantage and have made a properly cosy atmosphere within, regardless of its open ended format and in-line open kitchen. It all works nicely, soaks you in filtered natural light and slams you with a menu you can’t help but want to try the whole of. It’s comfort food, done stylishly without the frills in a venue that is as much set-up for a quick bite as it is to while away a few hours. Morty & Bob’s has quickly famed itself thanks to its penchant for toasted cheese sandwiches and wine; a combination of which they hero every so often for the carb and wine lover in all of us. Read more about their upcoming one in June here. They’ve split the menu into three parts, with brunch & lunch, evening and bar food and drinks, really catering to everyone with staples like a brunch bun of avocado and streaky bacon; kale, buckwheat and avocado on sourdough and minute rib eye steaks with house hash browns and a fried egg. See the menu and plan your next visit at the Morty & Bob’s website.

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: Burgers London, Coal Drops Yard, Food blog London, London Coal Drops Yard, London food blogger, London Morty & Bobs, Morty Bobs, The F London

Karl Lagerfeld lives on: German Gymnasium pays tribute with new cocktail

by James Banham

Posted: 23/05/2019

The memory of German fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld lives well and truly on, right in the heart of London. Just next door to the brand new development that is the Coal Drops Yard – where you’ll find the super comfy Morty & Bob’s – outside the gate of Kings Cross St. Pancras, the German Gymnasium is putting on a spread even the world’s most notoriously cynnical man of fashion would approve of. They’ve decked the place out in flowers, fashion and a likeness of the man with his signature sunglasses, too, all to celebrate the introduction of a new cocktail, The Karl, to the menu. The talented bar team have worked with Moët & Chandon to create a one-off Rosé Brockman’s gin, Lillet rosé and house strawberry liquor. The brightly coloured liquid takes inspiration from Lagerfeld’s far-reaching vibrant impact on the fashion industry. Check it out and make a booking at the German Gymnasium website.

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: German Gymnasium, Karl Lagerfeld, Karl Lagerfeld designer, London cocktails, London food blog, London food blogger, London German Gymnasium

Summer Safari in London: Mr Fogg’s Society Exploration

by James Banham

Posted: 23/05/2019

Africa is coming to Covent Garden in London as its own take on a boozy safari at Mr Fogg’s. It’s all about exotic Whitley Neill handcrafted gin and vodka cocktails, cricket powder brownies and spruiking a largely unforgettable summer. The venue will put on an immersive experience where adventurers and the curious will be invited to explore what lies below the streets of London. It’s a full themed experience for guests, turning staff members into full safari guides and khakis with pith helmets, the decor into African desert plains, and the menus into a card of exotic finds and libations found abundantly on the great continent. Completely – and charmingly – to theme, the team at Mr Fogg’s will be on hand to offer each and every explorer their liquid vaccinations, offering a welcome treat for guests taste buds, before serving up edible Victorian sun ointment, a coconut flavoured tropical, boozy mousse. Finishing it off with a Whitley Neill original handcrafted dry gin & tonic, featuring a quinine-rich tonic, of course, known to be a traditional mosquito deterrent. Then of course, there’s the food food menu; a sensory journey for both the eyes and stomach, featuring insects and game meat. Guests to this underground Safari can sample dishes like biltong, and curried tempura grasshoppers & courgette with a sweet chilli sauce, as well as cricket and chili rice cakes and cricket powder brownies. Set to run until the start of September, the summer safari will offer a window into the wild world of Africa. For like-minded individuals who are keen to be… Read More

Category: CITIES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: Foggs London, London restaurant, London restaurants, Mr Foggs, Mr Foggs London, Mr Foggs safari, Mr Foggs Safari London, Summer Safari

The UK’s first cancer cookery school Life Kitchen at The Lodge will open next month

by James Banham

Posted: 21/05/2019

Ryan Riley set up Life Kitchen to offer free cooking classes for people living with cancer. On 4 June, Life Kitchen at The Lodge will become an official thing. It’s all thanks to the lasting memory of Riley’s mother Krista, who passed away from small cell lung cancer in 2014. The school’s about free cooking classes for people living with cancer across the UK, based in the north east. Through teaching and learning accessible and creative recipes, Life Kitchen is purposed to help people living with cancer by bringing back the flavours and joy of cooking and eating through accessible and creative recipes. In just under a year, Life Kitchen has evolved from a passion project to a highly regarded charity initiative, with a string of celebrity chefs championing the cause. Even Nigella Lawson will be at the opening! To see more, head to their Instagram. Find Life Kitchen at Mowbray Park Sunderland, United Kingdom.

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: Kitchen for cancer, Life Kitchen, London Life Kitchen, Nigella Lawson cancer kitchen life, THE F cancer kitchen. Cancer kitchen, THE F Life Kitchen

Daphne’s of Chelsea celebrates turning 55 in great style

by James Banham

Posted: 19/05/2019

Fifty-five years ago, Daphne Rye, a prolific theatre agent in London, started up Daphne’s in Chelsea. It’s the place locals and visitors go for assured quality Italian fare, right in the heart of London in a style all its own. This year, Daphne’s celebrates its anniversary and they’re doing it in a number of must-see ways. Daphne’s is made up of three spaces, the restaurant, bar and conservatory, all of which will play their part in helping the institution make the most of its special time of year. The drink Daphnes’ bar team has designed the aptly titled, 55 Years Young, a new cocktail which can be ordered alongside the restaurant’s unique birthday dessert, Young at Heart, seasonal fruit encased in a chocolate box. Chelsea Flower Show In a unique take on how to celebrate the city’s renowned Chelsea Flower Show, Daphne’s has teamed up with Wedgwood, the fine bone china folks. Wedgwood was started in 1964 and so celebrating its own anniversary this year, too. Makes sense for the two brands to join forces – floral influence included – and so have done so by creating a special dessert and outside installation collaboration. Wedgwood’s Iconic Wild Strawberry design will serve as the inspiration for the dessert; a wild strawberry inspired dessert, available throughout the week from Tuesday 21 May to Saturday 25 May that will be served on the wild strawberry design plate. Iconic. Floral installation Considering the Chelsea Flower Show, Daphne’s will cover the restaurant’s Draycott Avenue facade with a quintessentially British floral… Read More

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, ITALIAN FOOD, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Mexican in London: Bottomless brunch at Santo Remedio

Mexican food and margaritas at Santo Remedio

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

If Mexican if your thing, and endless drinks do the job, too, then Santo Remedio has you covered. For Cinco de Mayo – and just ‘cos – Santo Remedio is the Mexican cantina in London that is joining the fold of bottomless brunch offerings in central London to spice up any weekend. Since 4 May, the folks behind Santo Remedio, Edson and Natalie have worked on mid-morning classics as well as their most popular dishes, inspired by recipes found in Mexico City, Yucatan, Oaxaca and beyond. Unlimited margaritas, bubbles or beer along with three courses and extra tasters, what’s on at Santo Remedio is all about a flavour-packed journey of tacos, slow-cooked meats, and veggie dishes. Think starters of guacamole and tortilla chips, baby potato flautas (fried corn tortillas stuffed with creamy mashed potatoes), pork carnitas tacos made with Herefordshire pork, or the prawn Aguachile Rojo. Then for mains, you’re looking at the likes of chilaquiles verdes o rojos with fried eggs, a traditional Mexican dish of fried tortillas bathed in salsa until tender; hibiscus flower enchiladas, a quirky take on the regular enchiladas, replacing meat with the fragrant flower; and chicken enchiladas suizas, a bold and zesty spin on this treasured dish with tomatillo salsa and chihuahua cheese. There are other options for meatier eaters, too! Find out more about the £45 bottomless brunch at Santo Remedio and make your own booking at their website.

Category: CITIES, FEATURES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, LONDON, MEXICAN FOOD

Tags: Bottomless brunch London, Mexican food London, Santo Remedio, Santo Remedio Mexican food London

Grilled cheese and wine pairing: A first for London by Morty and Bob’s

Toasted sandwich at Morty Bobs Coal Drops Yard

by James Banham

Updated: 19/05/2019

Coal Drops Yard in London has some new friends. Their names are Morty and Bob and they’re doing something few have tried before: pairing grilled cheese and wine. The result? Why hasn’t anyone done this before? They’re the hot sandwich bosses and have introduced a brand new concept by way of an informal monthly event that will take place at the restaurant, located in King’s Cross’ new cultural hub. Four wines will be paired with four of Morty and Bob’s favourite toasted sangers like: Straight Up’ M&B Classic (sourdough, Gruyère cheese sauce, M&Bs special Neals Yard Dairy Cheddar Blend, spring onion and red onion); The others are based on the classic with added delicious fillings Mushroom includes all the cheesiness plus roast wild mushrooms, wild garlic pesto & truffle with Berkswell Cheese shavings on top The Brocc also has the M&B classic cheese fillings but its grilled in focaccia with braised purple sprouting broccoli, romesco sauce and toasted almonds The Lamb is pitta pockets full of NYD cheese mix, spiced Lamb, fresh mint and crumbled feta. Just in case you hadn’t had enough cheese, dessert includes British Burrata, hazelnuts and honey. Think of it as a wine tasting, just with comfort food, carbs and a whole lot of ease. Find Morty and Bob’s at 9 Coal Drops Yard, London N1C 4DQ

Category: CITIES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: Coal Drops Yard, Coal Drops Yard London, Morty Bobs, Morty Bobs Coal Drop Yard, Toasted sandwiches London, Wine tasting London

Strazzanti London: Hackney Coffee Company & Campari UK launching The Sicilian Summer Aperitivo

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

Strazzanti Italian restaurant in London have joined up this Saturday 18 May with their friends Hackney Coffee House for their latest Sicilian dining experience, focusing on good food, great drinks and even greater times as the sun begins to show itself more and more. Appropriately called The Sicilian Summer Aperitivo, it’s a staring point for the summertime session with more dates to come, but it’ll be a celebration of all the things we love about our longer London days and the Italian influence of venues like Hackney Coffee Company. There’s a special menu that’ll be served too, curated by chef Emilia Strazzanti, that’ll draw upon her Sicilian heritage with a number of regional dishes just like her Grandparents would make. Emilia will be using locally sourced artisanal East London and Sicilian produce to produce three iconic food and drink stations. The food stations are: Stuzzichini Station featuring featuring crispy deep-fried Primo Sale cheese with honey & Sicilian oregano; beef and caper croquettes with salsa verde; bruschetta with tomatoes and Strazzanti Pesto Trapense; and pane cunzato with broccolli, garlic, chilli and anchovies. Enoteca Wine and Pasta Station Featuring aubergine timballo Siciliano, and fresh Pasta e Basta pasta with wild fennel Sicilian sausage ragu, while the Negroni and dessert station will offer a trio of cakes: Sicilian pistachio, almond, and hazelnut. Sicilian red and white wine Aperol Spritz & Negroni Station Available all evening. With an Aperol Spritz, Negroni or glass of wine in hand and plenty of food being served to stimulate the appetite, it’ll be a session worth experiencing. Tickets cost £45 per person and includes all food, 1 x… Read More

Category: CITIES, FEATURES, FOOD & DRINK, ITALIAN FOOD, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: Best food London, Best Italian restaurants London, London food, London Italian restaurants, Strazzanti Italian London, Strazzanti London: Hackney Coffee Company & Campari UK launching The Sicilian Summer Aperitivo

Nicolaes Maes is the Dutch Master of the Golden Age coming to the National Gallery London

by James Banham

Posted: 13/05/2019

From 22 February 2020, the work of Dutch Master Nicolaes Maes will grace the ground floor galleries of the National Gallery, right in the heart of London. It’ll make for what’s to be the first exhibition exclusively devoted to the man who died in 1693, taking on loans from private collections around the world. Made up of 35 pieces of work in paint and lead, the exhibition will take you on a journey through the life and learnings of a creative, considered one of the star pupils of renowned Dutch Golden Age Baroque artists, Rembrandt. What’s Maes known for? Maes was fond of works that depicted genre scenes, portraits, religious compositions and still lifes, many of which make up the bulk of next year’s exhibition. He was a pioneer of the theme of the eavesdropper; his carefully styled narratives often break the fourth wall, making the viewer a participant in the scene, as characters (often a maid) eavesdrop or point to illicit goings-on. To end the exhibition, it’ll focus on the period from 1673 when Maes settled in Amsterdam and abandoned domestic genre scenes to devote himself almost exclusively to portraits. A group of these lesser-known works will show how he brought a Van Dyckian elegance and swagger to the portraits. The exhibition will run until 31 May 2020. See more from the National Gallery at the website.

Category: ART, ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: Arts blogger, Culture blogger, james banham, James Banham London, London Arts blog, London blogger, London blogs, London Culture blog, national gallery, National Gallery London, National Gallery London Nicolaes Maes, Nicolaes Maes exhibition, Nicolaes Maes is the Dutch Master of the Golden Age coming to the National Gallery London, THE F arts, the f blog, THE F blog London, The F London, THE F National Gallery

Jardin Blanc: Eat with Raymond Blanc at the Chelsea Flower Show in London

by James Banham

Updated: 16/11/2022

In what is possibly one of London’s most refined experiences at the hands of chef Raymond Blac, Jardin Blanc will again appear in Chelsea this year for a stunning gastronomic experience that money can buy. Blanc’s two hats will take centre stage at the secret garden restaurant – Jardin Blanc – amongst the renowned Chelsea Flower Show in London, giving diners a taste of what the £402 per person package can award you. From 21 to 25 May, Jardin Blanc will once again be the premium hospitality experience and hot ticket for London’s must-visit show, turning out access to the show, a complimentary open bar and special menus curated using the best seasonal ingredients, served with style for ticket holders. It’s all about flowers, food and fine experiences, all designed by Raymond Blanc and inspired by springtime’s sensational produce in a super flash surrounding. What to expect at Jardin Blanc “[Jardin Blanc is] an enchanting place filled with art, food, fun and of course, flowers,” said Raymond. “From breakfast to lunch, afternoon tea or dinner, we’ll provide for you a memorable experience.” Think ‘terrace’, with glasses of champagne, a pergola covering and swinging benches by Myburgh Designs, unlimited gin cocktails using Warner Edwards’ gin and the freshest of spring botanicals. For those a little more ‘hands-on’ and gin inclined, there’s a a gin tasting at Jardin Blanc as part of Tuesday’s La Lily Regale package, which for Friday visitors, means access to a live cookery demonstration from Raymond, with exclusive tastings accompanied by Champagne. Find… Read More

Category: ARTS & CULTURE, CITIES, FEATURES, FOOD & DRINK, LIFESTYLE, LONDON

Tags: Chelsea Flower Show, Chelsea Flower Show London, Chelsea London, Jardin Blanc, Jardin Blanx tickets Chelsea Flower Show, Raymond Blanc, THE F Chelsea Flower Show, the f food, The F London, THE F Raymond Blanc

ARTS & CULTURE

Rum Tum Tugger and 2022 International Tour Company c Alessandro Pinna

CATS the musical is coming back to Sydney

17/10/2024

By James Banham

Step into a world of enchanting felines and timeless melodies as Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic musical, CATS, returns to Theatre Royal Sydney. Celebrating its 40th anniversary in June 2025, this legendary production is set to captivate audiences once more, in the very theatre where its Australian journey began back in 1985. CATS first leapt onto the stage at the New London Theatre in 1981, revolutionising musical theatre with its dazzling fusion of music, dance, and T.S. Eliot’s whimsical poetry from Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats. Since then, it has mesmerised over 81 million viewers across more than 50 countries, earning accolades including the Olivier and Evening Standard Awards for Best Musical. On Broadway, it reigned supreme for 18 years, collecting seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and establishing itself as a defining piece of the British “mega-musical” phenomenon. Producer John Frost of Crossroads Live reflects on the show’s enduring allure: “CATS is a legendary show that I’ve admired for over 40 years. A sparkling fusion of music, dance, and verse, it was revolutionary when it first opened and enticed new audiences into the world of musical theatre. I can’t wait to bring the original production of CATS back to Australia where it all began, at Theatre Royal Sydney, to celebrate its 40th anniversary in Australia.” The magic of CATS lies in its heartwarming tale of the Jellicle cat tribe. Each year, these unique felines gather for the Jellicle Ball, where their wise leader, Old Deuteronomy, makes the pivotal Jellicle choice, deciding which cat will… Read More

Dance, theatre and live music come together in Nobodaddy at Sadler’s Wells

17/10/2024

By James Banham

Experience the magic of dance at Sadler’s Wells Theatre this November with the enchanting production of “Nobodaddy,” brought to life by the brilliant Michael Keegan-Dolan and his acclaimed company, Tea? Da?sa. Running from 27th to 30th November, this groundbreaking performance promises to captivate audiences with its innovative fusion of dance, theatre, and live music. Following the success of their previous work, Mám, Keegan-Dolan returns to Sadler’s Wells with Nobodaddy, a powerful and evocative creation co-produced by Sadler’s Wells and making its London premiere. Inspired by a William Blake poem, this production emerges from the heart of Ireland’s Gaeltacht in West Kerry, offering a unique exploration of themes that resonate deeply with audiences. Nobodaddy is a large-scale dance and theatre ritual, featuring nine dancers seamlessly blending movement with song, accompanied by six musicians performing live on stage. The piece includes the extraordinary talents of renowned folk singer Sam Amidon, whose expertise in banjo, guitar, and fiddle enriches the performance. With seven acclaimed solo albums to his name, Amidon’s collaboration with Tea? Da?sa brings a vibrant, musical heartbeat to this immersive experience. The name “Nobodaddy,” an anagram for “Old daddy Nobody” or “Nobody’s daddy,” was coined by English Romantic poet William Blake. While Blake’s Nobodaddy represented a destructive divinity, Tea? Da?sa’s interpretation is a tribute to peacemakers and the harbingers of goodwill—an artistic nod to the power of unity and creativity. Created over eight weeks in the scenic surroundings of Kerry, Nobodaddy is a testament to Keegan-Dolan’s distinctive style of contemporary dance. The production is a celebration… Read More

The Lehman Trilogy 2024 L R Howard W Overshown Aaron Krohn © Mark Douet 50A6969.JPG

Lehman Trilogy is the play to see in London this season

13/10/2024

By James Banham

The return of The Lehman Trilogy to London’s West End is nothing short of a theatrical triumph. Having garnered critical acclaim and five Tony Awards®, this production reclaims its rightful place on the stage at the Gillian Lynne Theatre, dazzling audiences with its epic narrative and stellar performances. With its limited run until 5 January 2025, this is an unmissable opportunity to witness a play that has captivated over half a million viewers worldwide. Penned by the masterful Stefano Massini, adapted by Ben Power, and brought to life by the visionary director Sam Mendes, The Lehman Trilogy is a sweeping saga that chronicles the rise and fall of a family that not only changed the world but also shaped modern financial history. The story begins on a cold September morning in 1844, with a young Bavarian immigrant dreaming of a new life, and unfolds into a gripping tale spanning 163 years, culminating in the dramatic collapse of Lehman Brothers. This production boasts a formidable cast, with John Heffernan delivering a magnetic performance as Henry Lehman. Heffernan, known for his roles in Edward II and Oppenheimer, brings depth and nuance to the character. Alongside him, Aaron Krohn shines as Mayer Lehman, drawing on his rich experience with Sam Mendes’ previous works, including Cabaret and The Bridge Project. Howard W. Overshown rounds out the trio with his compelling portrayal of Emanuel Lehman, further solidifying his reputation from notable performances in Richard III and A Soldier’s Play. The ensemble is supported by a creative dream team, including set… Read More

What to see at Victorian Opera’s 2025 season

09/10/2024

By James Banham

Victorian Opera’s Season 2025 is set to be a dazzling display of theatrical brilliance, blending rare operatic masterpieces with the glitz of Broadway and literary adaptations. Topping the season’s bill is the first-ever fully staged production of Stephen Sondheim’s Tony Award-winning musical, “Follies,” running from February 1-6 at the iconic Palais Theatre in St Kilda. Picture this: a run-down theatre on the brink of demolition becomes the backdrop for a starry reunion of former chorus girls, rekindling the magic of their interwar performances. With luminaries like Marina Prior, Antoinette Halloran, and Rhonda Burchmore gracing the stage, it’s bound to be a spectacle that will go down in Australian musical theatre history. Under the expert artistic direction of Stuart Maunder AM, Victorian Opera continues to innovate and enchant. After their previous successes with productions like “Sweeney Todd” and “My Fair Lady,” Maunder once again teams up with Tony Award-winning designer Roger Kirk AM to bring this glamorous vision to life. The musical prowess of Phoebe Briggs and Orchestra Victoria will ensure a mesmerizing auditory experience. Come August, the Palais Theatre will once again be abuzz with excitement as Victorian Opera presents a fresh take on Mozart’s “The Abduction from the Seraglio.” This darkly comic opera is a heady mix of romance, heroism, and a touch of humor, set against Mozart’s emotionally charged score. Directed by Constantine Costi and featuring talents like Cleo Lee-McGowan and Katherine Allen, this production promises a thrilling ride through an operatic landscape filled with loyalty, love, and laughter. October brings us “Katya… Read More

If you like art, then you need to visit Royal Academy London

05/10/2024

By James Banham

At the dawn of the 16th century, the artistic landscape of Republican Florence became the stage for an extraordinary convergence of talent and ambition. Three illustrious figures of the Italian Renaissance—Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael—found themselves vying for the favor of the city’s most influential patrons. On January 25, 1504, Florence’s leading artists gathered to determine the rightful home for Michelangelo’s nearly completed masterpiece, David. This pivotal meeting included Leonardo da Vinci, who, like Michelangelo, had recently returned to his birthplace, setting the scene for a creative rivalry that would shape the Renaissance. The exhibition, beginning with Michelangelo’s acclaimed Taddei Tondo, delves into the competitive yet inspiring relationship between Michelangelo and Leonardo, and the profound impact they had on the youthful Raphael. Visitors will encounter some of the finest examples of Italian Renaissance drawing, including Leonardo’s Burlington House Cartoon and preparatory studies by both Leonardo and Michelangelo for their murals commissioned by the Florentine government for the newly built council hall in the Palazzo Vecchio. Organised by the Royal Academy of Arts, London, in collaboration with the Royal Collection Trust and the National Gallery, this exhibition offers a captivating journey through the artistic rivalry and collaboration that defined a pivotal era in art history. Michelangelo, Leonardo, RaphaelFlorence, c. 15049 November 2024 – 16 February 202510am–6pm, Tuesdays to Sundays10am-9pm, Fridays