Looking for something a bit different to enjoy in the capital this month? Forget the rain and the grey skies – here are a few ideas that promise to get the blood-flowing, the taste-buds rolling, the brain in gear and the fun happening… Hurrah!
PICK OF THE MONTH
Music master classes with BRIT-nominated artist, Laura Mvula
As part of the week-long celebrations preceding the BRIT Awards 2014, it’s just been announced that the incredible Laura Mvula will be hosting an exclusive BRIT masterclass at the O2’s British Music Experience THIS Thursday at 2pm.
Laura, who has been nominated for ‘Best Female’ and ‘British Breakthrough Act’ at this year’s awards, will offer FREE advice to local music students, BRIT School students, youth groups and music lovers at the intimate BME master class.
A must for anyone wanting to learn about becoming a successful musician and more on the British music industry!
To register for tickets, head to britishmusicexperience.com/lauramvula
Playing the tables at the Grosvenor G Casino, Piccadilly
Ever wondered how good your Poker Face really is? Always wanted to shout ‘Red’ or ‘Black’ but have never actually done it? Well, now’s the time to learn – at the brilliant Grosvenor G Casino, Piccadilly.
Held in a stunning Grade II listed building at the heart of London’s West End, this is without a doubt one of the most atmospheric settings to try your hand at some Texas Hold ‘Em, Roulette, Blackjack or Three Card – and with a bit of help from the team’s Learn To Play sessions, you might
just come out a complete pro’.
All the above games are available here, with the usual slot machines and electronic Roulette tables on-hand too. The team, led by General Manager Delaney Gordon, offer the FREE 30-minute sessions for beginners and those who want to improve themselves – just ask at reception when you walk in.
The best thing about this place is it really isn’t intimidating. Having enjoyed a few goes on the gaming-floor, there’s the brilliant G Bar upstairs to chill out in, with splendid views over Leicester Square. Fun experience packages are also available for groups (and can save you some dosh) – so bring your friends or work mates. It’s fun for any night of the week!
grosvenorcasinos.com/local-casinos/piccadilly
Step into the Caribbean… in Soho
Fancy a taste of the Caribbean, without leaving the comfort of the West End? Of course you do. Then head over to Kingly Court to sample the Rum Group’s second opening – a venue that brings the West Indies alive in London.
The Rum Kitchen, Carnaby’s all-day food menu offers everything from curried mutton, swordfish sarnies and salt-fish fritters (perfect for a work lunch meeting, no?) – while the watermelon and mango salad will transport your mind and taste-buds to a sunnier place. I'm addicted to the £8 soft-shell crab burger. Mmm.
Obviously the cocktail menu is not to be missed either – especially the Rumbustion; that’s coconut, spices and rum! Yum.
therumkitchen.com/
Going Wild after hours at the Natural History Museum
London’s great museum (nearest tube, South Kensington) is offering late-night openings – and on the 28th, you can stop by to enjoy the Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2013 exhibition. Take in the fantastic pictorial works by a world of incredibly talented photographers, before touring the galleries – including the Treasures department, the Whale Hall and of course, the Dinosaurs!
There’ll also be live new music coming out of the Central Hall, where there are lessons to be had in speed-sketching too. The best part? You won’t go hungry – or thirsty because there will be an array of pop-up restaurants and bars serving up a real treat with a variety of food.
NB. You will need to book tickets for the exhibitions, including Wildlife Photographer of the Year and can do so here:
nhm.ac.uk/
The newest and BEST Chicken Shop in town
It’s finally arrived and we’ve finally tasted it. And you know what? We think the brand new Tooting Chicken Shop might be serving up the most delicious poultry in the capital.
Head left out of Tooting Broadway station and you’ll come across the small, ambient venue, which serves up a half chicken for £8.50 with sides of barbequed, buttery corn on the cob, crispy fries, coleslaw and more for just £4. It’s the wine that will set you back a bit - £17 for a small jug Malbec - but the house selection is less pricy. Beer and cider come in at around £3.50-£4.
While you’re crowing away at your own tasty platter, you’ll hear echoes of, ‘This is the best chicken I’ve ever had’. You’ll look at your pals and silently nod.
Despite being stuffed by the end of the main, I recommend the warm chocolate brownie with home-made vanilla ice cream to finish. DIVINE.
chickenshop.com
