Newsletter - 18th September 2026
Johnny Boy’s
When: Opened 4 July 2026
Where: 3 Northwold Road
Book: www.eatatjohnnyboys.com
This all-day café and restaurant has the charm and quirk of a Wes Anderson film, with the food and drinks of an all-American diner. Inspired by the neighbourhoods of Southern California, Johnny Boy’s brings a little LA energy to Stoke Newington. It is far more than a familiar American-style restaurant, with LA-born chef Julian Denis drawing on Greek, Japanese, Jewish and Mexican influences from the city’s family-run restaurants.
The menu is worth exploring at any time of day. For breakfast, Theresa’s Breakfast Burrito is a wonderfully indulgent combination of sausage gravy, eggs, tots, cheese and salsa. The California Burrito is another substantial favourite, packed with carne asada, fries, cheese crust, guacamole, sour cream and pico de gallo. Later in the day, the old-school cheeseburger with loaded fries is an easy choice, while the patty melt, made with rye bread, a quarter-pound patty, caramelised onions, Russian dressing, and Swiss and American cheese, is well worth ordering.
For the liveliest atmosphere, try to get a table in the main room rather than the back room. It is the best way to experience Johnny Boy’s distinctive ‘Restaurant’ atmosphere.
Balham Beer and Music Festival
Balham welcomes a brilliant line-up of established and emerging artists for its annual Beer and Music Festival this September. From 1pm to 7pm, Luke Flear, the Lincoln Skins, Phoebe Parker and Rosko Piko will take to the stage.
The music comes with plenty of choice at the bar, with 50 beers and ciders from south London breweries available to try. There is also a raffle with a beer-themed goody bag worth £150. Find tickets and event details here.
Sora x Chez Mal Sushi and Steak Menu
Until 30 September, Birmingham is home to a special Sora x Chez Mal collaboration at Malmaison. The menu brings together sushi, steak and carefully matched drinks for an indulgent dining experience.
Begin with charred edamame beans with smoked salt, followed by a Peach and Lychee Spritz with tuna sashimi, salmon nigiri, tiger prawn nigiri and a California roll. The second course pairs an 818 Spicy Margarita with flat iron steak, roasted onion, watercress and fries. To finish, there is a Citroncello with calamansi citrus posset, honeycomb, raspberries and Thai basil. You’ll find Chez Mal at the Malmaison Hotel, 1 Wharfside Street, Birmingham, B1 1RD. Book your table here.
Home-made Pasta Masterclass
Many of the masterclasses we feature come with a hefty price tag, but this one is completely free with a fully refundable £5 deposit. At Thermomix Greenwich Studio, the two-hour class on Saturday 19 September will teach you how to make authentic Italian pasta and dips from scratch.
If you’re free that afternoon, reserve your place here.