Newsletter - 18th July 2025
Noreen
When: Opened 19 June 2025
Where: 28-32 St Christopher's Place W1U 1NU
Book: https://www.noreen-london.com/
Taking inspiration from both the Arabian Peninsula and the Levant, Noreen has popped up in Marylebone to serve its special flavours of the Middle East. From flatbreads and mezze to meats and seafood from the grill, the restaurant is big on rustic and authentic cooking techniques. Noreen also offers an intriguing cocktail menu created in partnership with Ryan Chetiyawardana of Mr Lyan Studio – the world’s most awarded bartender. There are both alcoholic and non-alcoholic concoctions using ingredients such as preserved lemon, sumac, molasses, and spices. Led by ex-Dorchester chef Mehdi Hani, the reviews so far seem promising. The extensive menu strikes a balance between established favourites (Hummus, Labneh, Falafel, and Kebab) and more adventurous dishes (Levantine Tartar, Kibda, and Mandi). Its summer dining terrace is described it as an ideal spot for sharing dishes. Favourite dishes so far seem to be the Cardamom Bun & Date Butter, Chicken Tawook with Pistachio Bakhsam, and Rose Booza. As a new opening, only time will tell if it can compete with the strong competition in Marylebone, but so far so good – the early signs point to a promising addition to the neighbourhood’s thriving restaurant scene.
Pizza & Cocktail Festival in Richmond
Slice-O-Mania is an opportunity for all pizza-tasters and cocktail-sippers to take their indulgence to the next level. The company behind the event is also behind The Tacover, a taco and tequila festival taking place at the same location in August. Bringing together the UK’s best vendors and bars, the festival will be taking place at Richmond Athletic Ground on July 18-19. Pizza will be available for £3 a slice and there will be lots of choice to satisfy every craving. Vendors include Nonna’s Tacos, PepperHomies, Soul Pizza Truck, and Papi’s Cocktails, with lots of pizza-themed traders to browse as well. The event offers more than just your average food market, with DJs, entertainment, the UK Pizza Eating Championships, and the UK Cocktail Championship. Friday and Saturday night tickets are adults only but the Saturday Brunch sessions are family-friendly, with discounted tickets for children. Click here to find out more.
ArcadeX Riverside Pop-Up
From late June, Battersea Power Station has been hosting a summer pop-up bringing together food, drinks, and a range of outdoor entertainment. Open Wednesday to Sunday, 11am – 10pm, ArcadeX offers a range of street food, wines and beers, live DJs, sports screenings, and comfortable seating to sit back and relax. Some of London’s favourite culinary establishments such as BAO and Manna will be making an appearance, and guests can enjoy their food al fresco while watching events such as the Women’s Euros on the big screen. The pop-up will be running until September 7; click here to book a day bed or feel free to turn up on the day as a walk-in.
The National Geographic Traveller Food Festival
The annual food festival returns to London’s Business Design Centre on July 19-20 showcasing international cuisine, live cooking demonstrations, interviews with cookbook authors, and tasting sessions. At the Main Stage, you can watch big names in the world of food share their techniques, philosophies, and foodie anecdotes, and Speakers’ Corner offers a more intimate opportunity to hear from authors and culinary experts. Great for aspiring chefs of all levels, the Saffron and Cinnamon theatres will run a range of masterclasses and there’s also a Wine & Spirits Theatre for those wanting to hone their tasting skills and expand their knowledge. Back by popular demand, a food photography workshop will return to the festival, perfect for those wanting to learn from some of Nat Geo’s regular contributors. Click here to grab your tickets and find out more.