The foodie events, culinary celebrations and restaurant openings we’re most excited about for the month ahead.
Throughout December: Insta-worthy Christmas trees, various locations
Why we’re excited: Several of London’s most famous restaurants, bars and hotels are getting into the festive spirit with eye-catching Christmas trees. We love the look of the tree at Claridge’s (above) which has been designed by fashion legend Diane Von Furstenberg, while The London Edition has unveiled a 14-foot creation which is adorned with hand-folded paper ornaments.
3 December: Burger & Beyond, Shoreditch
Why we’re excited: Following three years of street food pop ups, Burger & Beyond has finally bagged itself a permanent site on Shoreditch High Street. Industrial-chic interiors see a neutral palette of stone, exposed brick and lime wash paint, while guests can sit at the bar or in cosy booths. Burgers remain the star of the show, but the seriously tempting menu also features dishes such as lamb nuggets with burnt onion dip, and truffle tots.
3 December: Imperial Treasure, St James’s
Why we’re excited: This fine-dining Chinese already boasts locations across Asia, and now it’s taken over a massive space in St James’s for its debut London site. On the menu, you can expect to find the likes of caviar with scrambled egg, and white baked crab with pepper. However, Imperial Treasure is best known for its Peking duck, which is carved tableside. Until 17 December, diners can enjoy 50% off a whole Peking duck (pre-booking required).
3 December: Tamarind, Chelsea
Why we’re excited: This Chelsea stalwart closed its doors earlier this year to undergo an extensive refurbishment and now, Tamarind 2.0 is finally ready to make its debut. The restaurant will also welcome a new kitchen team in the shape of Karunesh Khanna (ex-Amaya) and Manav Tuli (ex-Chutney Mary). Expect to chow down on the likes of tandoori quail with caramelised gooseberry, and masala-tossed lamb brain.
5 December: Din Tai Fung, Covent Garden
Why we’re excited: If you trace Taiwanese restaurant royalty Din Tai Fung back to its roots, you’ll find it was doing the one-item menu trick decades before London caught on. Now an industry byword for superlative steamed soup-filled dumplings, the group’s debut London site will serve up the likes of steamed chilli-crab and pork buns or steamed chicken soup. There’s even a second London location at Centre Point set to follow in 2019.
25 December: Christmas Day, various locations
Why we’re excited: Arguably the most important meal of the year, your Christmas dinner is not something that should be left to the last minute. If slaving away over a turkey all day doesn’t sound like your idea of a relaxing Christmas, why not go out for the big meal instead? Our pick of London restaurants which are open on Christmas Day is sure to sort you out, whatever your preferred vibe or budget – check out the list here.
31 December: New Year’s Eve, various locations
Why we’re excited: 2018 has been quite the eventful year, so it’s only right that you see it out in style. Whether you’re looking for a view of the Mayor’s fireworks, or you’re after something a little different (NYE dinner on a boat, anyone?), our guide to New Year’s Eve in the capital features plenty of going out inspiration. Click here to get planning.
For the inside track on what’s opening in November and beyond, check out our list of restaurants coming soon.