Highlights Of 2024, From Best Bars To Beauty

A new restaurant we love

“There were many incredible new restaurant openings in London, and one of our favourites is the fabulous LIMA Shoreditch which opened its doors in October this year. The menu offers a modern take on traditional Peruvian cooking, with references to Nikkei cuisine and Chifa (a blend of Japanese and Chinese cooking techniques with native Peruvian produce). On the menu, we love the ceviche (fresh and delicious), the asparagus and passion fruit salad and the wagyu beef saltado.”- Robyn, Managing Director.

The fabulous LIMA Shoreditch opened its doors in October this year, and its seriously impressive.

A bar that always delivers

“There’s a few features which make Below Stone Nest a stand out – firstly, it’s one of the many Soho bars that we love, but underground so it doesn’t get insanely packed (aka The Devonshire). Also, it’s walk-ins only, so the spontaneous don’t get crowded out by the pre-planners. As for the vibe, it’s rustic without feeling like it’s trying to be edgy, the cocktails are great and there’s always some cool music on.” – Patrick, Editorial Assistant

As for the vibe, it’s rustic without feeling like it’s trying to be edgy.

A London restaurant that never disappoints

“I think London has some of the best Indian restaurants in the world (outside India of course), so I’m always on the lookout for a restaurant that gives me a taste of home. Brigadiers does just that for me – it’s got such a fun vibe, and as a defence kid who has grown up eating in an “Army mess” I love it even more. I’m a big fan of the aloo tokri chaat, and the Afghani lamb ribeye kebab skewer is incredible.” – Andrea, Food, Culture & Lifestyle Writer

London has some of the best Indian restaurants in the world.

A new London hotel (with an iconic view)

There have been plenty of exciting new hotel openings in London this year, but one of our favourites is the stunning new Park Hyatt London River Thames. Perched along the river, this gorgeous London hotel makes the perfect spot for a staycation if you’re looking for a little holiday in the city. From a dedicated wellness floor to great dining experiences and a curated art collection, there’s lots to love. – Elly, CEO

Perched along the river, this gorgeous London hotel makes the perfect spot for a staycation.

An international hotel we are still dreaming of

“I was lucky enough to visit the Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi earlier this year, and I still think about it multiple times a week. It was the most spellbinding and magical place I’ve ever stayed – I give it 10/10 for those seeking the trip of a lifetime.” – Natasha, Digital Editor

It was the most spellbinding and magical place I’ve ever stayed.

A pub we are definitely going back to

“This year has been a culinary whirlwind, with countless incredible restaurant openings vying for our attention. But if I had to choose one that truly stands out, one that delivers on every front, it would probably be The Hero in Maida Vale.

This beautiful gastropub is redefining neighbourhood dining with its combination of atmosphere, food, and charm.  From the moment you step inside, you’re struck by its inviting interiors, cosy nooks and reclaimed wood accents. Behind this new hotspot is the team behind some of London’s most loved gastropubs, including The Pelican in Notting Hill. These guys know their way around a hearty menu, and The Hero is no exception.” – Sydney, Social Media Manager

A showstopping interior’s launch

“When two great brands come together and create something spectacular, you can’t help but take notice. For one, the Zara x Collagerie collection: it was this multicoloured range of chic, yet playful pieces designed by Lucinda Chambers, the Creative Officer of Collagerie that reignited our love of colour (a big trend for 2025). 

Also worth a note, is the Teklan x LAYERED collection of bold handmade rugs. Again, using striking colour combinations, these investment pieces are guaranteed to add a wow factor to your home.” – Ashling, Contributing Style & Interiors Editor

A beauty launch we adore

“I’m completely in love with Aesop’s Seasonal Gift Kits this year—they’ve outdone themselves! Inspired by cinema, the collection is pure magic, with each set feeling like its own little masterpiece for hands, body, or home. The packaging is stunning, the scents are perfection, and every detail feels so thoughtful, that it’s impossible not to be bowled over. Aesop always gets it right, but this collection? It’s love at first sight (and sniff)!” – Tamara, Contributing Beauty Editor

Inspired by cinema, the collection is pure magic, with each set feeling like its own little masterpiece for hands, body, or home.

A film we recommend

“Generating a lot of hype at the Cannes Film Festival and then on social media, The Substance is a film that’ll make you squirm at times- but that’s very much the point. Starring Demi Moore in her strongest screen performance to date, it follows an ageing workout guru and actress, Elisabeth Sparkle, who is given the boot from her aerobics show. As her slippery boss (Dennis Quaid) tries to find a replacement, Elisabeth reaches for what she discovers is a drastic solution: a black market drug that creates a younger version of her (Margaret Qualley). Feminist black comedy, gross-out body horror, satire of Hollywood and showbiz- it’s all of that, and a lot more.” – Rufus, Contributing Entertainment Writer

A red carpet moment that shone

“2024 was undoubtedly the year of the Siennaissance, and whilst I loved all her billowing Chloé looks and leather and lace combos, this rather lowkey (for the red carpet anyway) Schiaparelli look at the Horizon: An American Saga Cannes proves that Sienna Miller is at her best when she keeps things a little more relaxed. I love the tweeness of the tweed jacket with a more streetwear-inspired bottom half and this was the look to persuade me into a barrel jean for sure.” – Astrid, Contributing Fashion & Lifestyle Editor

This was undoubtedly the year of the Siennaissance.