From musical performances at Battersea Park in Concert to street food takeovers, we’ve rounded up the best pop-ups landing this August. Read on to inspire your month ahead.
Searcys’ Summer Opera Concert
This August, Searcys is set to host a Summer Opera Concert, complete with afternoon tea and Champagne.
Taking over the stunning setting of 116 Pall Mall, the London Chamber Orchestra and soprano Charlotte Bowden will be putting on a show to remember. A rising star in opera, Bowden was the prestigious 2022 Kathleen Ferrier Awards finalist and performed at other iconic venues such as the Royal Albert Hall and Wigmore Hall, so you know you’re in good hands.
The concert begins at 5:30pm, but if you fancy taking your experience up a notch, head down for 4pm to enjoy an afternoon tea created by the Searcys team.
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August at Oranj
Oranj, the popular natural wine spot, will be welcoming its latest summer takeover. This August will see chef Felix Reade and sommelier Nominoe Guillebot take the reins and bring a taste of Marseille to E1.
Having met working at Lyle’s, the pair’s mutual passion for Southern French cuisine saw them separately head to the renowned La Mercercie in Marseille. Working collaboratively, their Oranj takeover will see them bring an inspiring menu and accompanying wine list to the table.
Centred around the simplicity and authenticity of Mediterranean communal cooking, the small plate menu will feature dishes such as carpaccio of yellowtail with raspberry and harissa; smoked aubergine with anchovy, burnt apricot, sheep’s yogurt, mint and puffed riz de Camargue; and fig leaf parfait in a half orange and orange blossom granite. While the wine list pays homage to the Southern France region, particularly focusing on female winemakers – expect a mix of whites, oranges and lighter red options available.
Cazcabel x Hacha Brixton
Tequila lovers, listen in… The UK’s best-selling 100% agave tequila, Cazcabel, has landed at London’s leading agaveria Hacha for an exciting summer takeover.
Running until the end of August, the ground floor bar and Bottle Shop at Hacha Brixton will be serving up an exclusive Cazcabel cocktail menu, tequila flights and tastings.
Bringing a taste of Atotonilco et Alto to South London, the menu features icy tipples like the coffee colada and frozen rosita and summery citrus staples including the lemon balm margarita.
When: until 31.08.2023
Where: Hacha Brixton, 12-14 Market Row, Brixton, SW9 8LD
Website: www.hachabar.com
Hackney Bridge’s 2023 British Street Food Awards
Hosting the final of the 2023 British Street Food Awards this August is the new canal-side venue, Hackney Bridge.
A celebration of street food, thousands of entries from across the country have been competing following a series of regional heats. The grand final takes place from 18th to 20th August with 15 traders competing for the prize and opportunity to represent Britain at the European awards.
The competition is set to be judged by a panel of foodies and experts, including musician and cookbook author Sophie Ellis-Bextor, chef patron of Hackney’s Michelin-starred restaurant Behind, Andy Beynon, and Tom Brown of Cornerstone.
Visitors can look forward to trying the best street food dishes from around the UK and vote for their favourites. This year’s finalists include cajun chicken bowls from LJ Hugs; Chari siu pork and tiger prawn rolls from Smoking Lobster; beef cheek hash browns from Hash Hut; and Iraqi fusion dishes from Amani Kitchen.
When: 18.08.2023 – 20.08.2023
Where: Hackney Bridge, Units 1-28, Echo Building, Easy Bay Lane, E15 2SJ
Website: www.hackneybridge.org
Caia’s Summer Pop-up
For a cooking-over-fire restaurant experience, this summer Caia’s co-founder Rishabh Vir teams up with acclaimed chef Chris Denney to take over the Notting Hill restaurant’s central grill. The pair will be serving up the very best seasonal produce on a menu that centres around fat, salt, smoke and spice.
The pair have a long history together and will be using their passion for cooking over fire to create a special menu. Perfect for the summer, dishes include the likes of cod roe with BBQ crisp bread; sweet, sour, spicy and salty honeymoon melon; salmon belly with scotch bonnet and dried mango; and wagyu ribeye with tomato and gochujang. Cool off with a refreshing hibiscus, vanilla or strawberry soft serve to finish.
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Battersea Park in Concert
Fill out the final bank holiday of the summer in style with Battersea Park in Concert, a series of evenings filled with picnic concerts, fireworks and fun.
Leading names in the West End, jazz and classical music world will come together for three evening open-air concerts. Expect the likes of Gabrielle, Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra and Ronnie Scott’s All Stars to be performing.
Take your experience up a notch and order one of their picnic hampers from the Luxury Picnic Co. Think artisanal cheese, cured meats, rustic breads and a bottle of wine.
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Beach Bar at The Montague on the Gardens
Beach bars are popping up all over the city but our favourite OG has to be the Beach Bar at The Montague on the Gardens.
Complete with real sand, a beach-hut style thatched roof, cocktails, palm trees and a backdrop of a beautiful beach, you’ll feel like you’re basking in the Bahamas from the get-go.
The hotel’s talented chefs will be serving up delicious BBQ options all throughout the summer, as well as desserts and ice cream cones to finish. Cocktails are served in coconuts on arrival and there are plenty of drink and food packages you can book in for to really soak up the atmosphere.
The Happenstance by Drake & Morgan x Laurent-Perrier
Escape to the French coast this summer with The Happenstance by Drake & Morgan’s new terrace takeover.
Created in partnership with champagne heroes Laurent-Perrier, the all-weather space has been transformed with blush florals and perfectly pink decor. Sip into the sunset on a glass of La Cuvée or Cuvée Rosé Champagne whilst catching up with friends.
When: Throughout the summer
Where: The Happenstance, 10 Paternoster Square, London, EC4M 7SX
WebsitE: www.drakeandmorgan.co.uk
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New Red Eight Gallery Space
The Royal Exchange’s resident experts in cutting-edge art have recently opened up a new gallery space in the venue. It’s a chance for Londoners to explore the world of investment artwork.
Huge pieces from legendary artists are on display, including Keith Haring, Damien Hirst, Richard Hambelton, Will Teather, Lisa Thomson, Stik, Harland Miller, Cayla Birk and William Fortescue.
Flamenco Dancers at José Pizarro The Swan Inn
Get your dancing shoes at the ready and book in for a table at José Pizarro The Swan Inn on 31st August for their special music nice.
Ramon and a group of flamenco dancers will be doing a live performance for all of the restaurant’s outdoor diners, meaning you can get an authentic taste of Spain right here in London.
Summer Run & Picnic With The Westin London City
Whether you’re a running veteran or you’re gradually picking up your pace, mark your calendars for Saturday 5th August as you’re invited to take part in a scenic 8km social run led by The Runner Beans.
The event will see you taking in some of the city’s most iconic sights as you run alongside fellow runners. After you hit the 8km mark, you can look forward to a post-run picnic with food, drinks and games.
On your marks, get set, run!
When: 05.08.2023
Where: The Westin London City, 60 Upper Thames Street, EC4V 3AD
Website: www.eventbrite.co.uk
The Beach at Ben’s Yard
Escape the city and head to Ben’s Yard’s summer pop-up that’ll see you basking in the sun from the comfort of a deckchair.
The newly opened rural retail destination, home to luxury boutiques and botanical-inspired eateries, has launched a summer beach pop-up. Perfect for little ones and adults alike, the beach boasts warm sand to run your toes through and a refreshing paddling pool to cool off in.
Alongside the beach, there’ll be various events running throughout the summer, from superhero meet-ups to bubbly wizardology. Look forward to plenty of fair-ground rides too, from the crazy zoo maze to the mini waveswinger.
When: Running until 29.08.2023
Where: Ben’s Yard, Stuntney Estate, Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 5TR
Website: www.thebeachbensyard.com
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The Essence of 34 at 34 Mayfair
Transporting you to the French Riviera this season is 34 Mayfair and their latest collaboration with Floris London and Maison Mirabeau.
Titled ‘The Essence of 34’, the restaurant will be scented with the smells of summertime from the historic perfumery, Floris London. Slotted alongside a special drinks menu from Mirabeau and a limited-edition dessert, you won’t want to miss out.
When: until 30.09.2023
Where: 34 Mayfair, 34 Grosvenor Square, St Audley Street, W1K 2HD
Website: www.34-restaurant.co.uk
Silent Pool Gin Garden at Barnett Hill
Taking over the outdoor space at Surrey’s Barnett Hill this summer is Silent Pool Gin. The garden has been transformed into a summer haven, complete with florals, cocktails and foodie delights.
Enjoy a beautiful Barnett afternoon tea, expertly paired with three Silent Pool Gin cocktails from their master mixologists.
When: until 30.09.2023
Where: Barnett Hill, Blackheath Lane, Guildford, GU5 0RF
Website: www.alexanderhotels.co.uk
Whispering Angel x The Roof Terrace at The Sloane Club
Taking over The Sloane Club’s Roof Terrace this summer is the iconic rosé brand Whispering Angel. Running until the end of August, the terrace will offer a selection of crisp rosés accompanied by a special menu by The Club’s chefs.
Delight in a range of light and fresh dishes celebrating British summer flavours, from the lemongrass chicken burger with garlic aioli, pineapple salsa and spicy Asian slaw to the seafood and basil risotto with native lobster, Devon crab, tiger prawns and squid. All paired alongside a refreshing glass of rosé of course.
When: until the end of august
Where: The Slaoen Club, 52 Lower Sloane Street, Chelsea, SW1W 8BS
Website: www.sloaneclub.co.uk
Gelato Pop-Up at Mercante
Although we’ve had a washout summer so far, it’s still been balmy and humid so we’ve constantly been in need of something refreshing to cool us down. Thankfully this August sees Italian restaurant Mercante serve up delicious gelato options.
Mercante, nestled in Sheraton Grand London Park Lane, has teamed up with the reigning World Cup Gelato Champion to bring World Cup winning ice cream to Londoners.
An exclusive menu has been developed with World Gelato Master Eugenio Morrone. It’ll feature the likes of the golden summer, a pistachio gelato crowned with a home-made raspberry drizzle; sweet and spicy, a blend of dark chocolate and Sichuan pepper; and the parco verde, a sorbet combining cinnamon flowers with apples, pine nuts and raisins.
When: running until 31.08.2023
Where: Sheraton Grand, Piccadilly, W1J 7BX
Website: www.mercanterestaurant.com
St Martins Lane x TRIP
If you find yourself in Covent Garden this weekend, head over to St Martins Lane London to soak up the festivities and relax in the sun.
They’ve teamed up with TRIP to launch the ultimate summer oasis, complete with refreshing cocktails, fresh seasonal dishes and cosy corners to while away the day on. Their cocktails are inspired by TRIP’s popular drinks flavours, from zingy peach and ginger CBD to refreshing elderflower and mint CBD.
When: throughout the summer
Where: 45 ST MARTIN’S LANE, COVENT GARDEN, WC2N 4HX
Website: www.book.ennismore.com
Harvey Nichols’ Puerto Rican Terrace
You’re invited to discover Puerto Rico this summer courtesy of Harvey Nichols. The iconic department store has teamed up with Discover Puerto Rico to create a Caribbean-inspired takeover.
The terrace is adorned with native flowers and colourful furnishings, while Puerto Rico’s rum house, Casa BACARDÍ, will be serving up popular classics. Think mojito and hand-shaken piña coladas. There’ll also be Puerto Rican dishes on offer too.
When: until 31.08.2023
Where: Fifth Floor Terrace at Harvey Nichols, 109-125 Knightsbridge, SW1X 7RJ
Website: www.harveynichols.com
Sea Containers Restaurant x Café Riggs
Bookmark this one for the end of August when Sea Containers Restaurant will be hosting a special kitchen takeover. The restaurant will welcome chef Wolfgang all the way from the hotel’s sister property Riggs in Washington DC for an exciting partnership with Sea Containers’ chef Ryan.
Guests can look forward to experiencing Café Riggs options right here in Southbank, including signature dishes such as king salmon burgers; prawn risotto; as well as delicious brunch options of buttermilk fried chicken and waffle; wagyu beef tartare with capers, farm eggs and sourdough.
When: 28.08.2023 – 10.09.2023
Where: Sea Containers Restaurant, 20 Upper Ground, SE1 9PD
Website: www.seacontainerslondon.com
My Lyan & Friends on the Rooftop
Hosted on the Rooftop with panoramic views across East London, One Hundred Shoreditch is launching Mr Lyan & Friends. Taking place for six weeks every Sunday and Monday, a new guest will take over the Rooftop for two unmissable nights with a summer playlist and signature drinks menu.
On 6th and 7th August, they will be teaming up with Seed Library’s siblings – Lyaness – serving a selection of their ancestral cookbook cocktails.
When: sunday + mondays from 30th July
Where: 100 Shoreditch High Street, Shoreditch, E1 6JQ
Website: www.onehundredshoreditch.com
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Cycene x Kurisu Omakase
Michelin-starred Cycene and its executive chef Theo Clench has just launched its first guest chef takeover. This month it’ll see Chris Restrepo of Kurisu Omakase host four collaboration dinners on select dates throughout August.
The pair have worked together to create a 12-course, seafood-led menu combining the best dishes from Cycene and Kurisu Omakase. The evening will begin in Cycene’s ground floor bar, featuring a series of sushi dishes before heading upstairs to the Kitchen where you can look forward to a four-hands approach. Menu is yet to be announced but we already know this is a must-visit for the month.
When: Running 8th, 9th, 15th & 16th August – further dates TBA
Where: Cycene, 9 Chance Street, E2 7JB
Website: www.bluemountain.school
Sanderson London x The Uncommon
Sanderson London has teamed up with The Uncommon to bring you some fantastically mixed cocktails to enjoy and unwind this summer at their terrace.
Their team of mixologists have created three tasty serves with the spritzy wines in a can. Some are mixed with Beefeater 24, raspberry and lemon juice and St Germain liquor with elderflower syrup, mint and cucumber to really bring out the fresh flavours. The perfect way to cool down this summer. We’ll see you there…
Walthamstow-On-The-Sea
A brand new urban beach has landed in London, bringing those balmy beach seaside vibes you’d typically find at British coastal resorts and scattering them in Walthamstow.
Located at Big Penny Social, the bar has been transformed with beach-side huts, deck chairs, sand pits, beer-battered fish and chips by Tasty UK, ice cream stands and a beach bar serving draught beers and frozen cocktails.
When: throughout the summer
Where: Big Penny Social, 1 Priestley Way, E17 6AL
Website: www.bigpennysocial.co.uk
London Sneaker School x CANVVS Savile Row Concept Store
The new institution in sneaker design and education, London Sneaker School, has teamed up with the creator community CANVVS to create a three-month concept store.
Located on 20 Savile Row, this new store will allow budding sneaker designers to create their own designs. You’ll be able to design your own bespoke sneaker, using classics like the Jordan 1s or Dunk SBs and choose premium leathers of your choice to create a fun, original design.
A core collection of handmade classics will also be on display and available to order, including the Air Jordan 1 Travis Scott Low Shell Mocha. Plus, there’ll be the opportunity to embark on an online or in-person workshop to make your own hand-made sneaker.
