Newsletter - 25th July 2025
Canal
When: Opened 30 June 2025
Where: Canal, Westbourne Park, 11 Woodfield Road, London W9 2BA
Book: https://www.canalrestaurant.com/
Located in Mason & Fifth’s new canalside boutique hotel, this recent opening from HAM Restaurants showcases seasonal produce on the banks of London’s “urban riviera”. Chef Hernandez Farina who has previously worked at spots such as Coal Rooms, Luca, and Humo is heading up the team. Reimagining the former London Taxi Drivers’ Association HQ, the industrial interiors of concrete columns, minimalist banquettes, and an open kitchen, set the scene nicely for a modern bistro dining experience. Reviews so far praise the Crab Doughnuts, Ricotta-filled Tortellini, and Whole Brill in a Bouillabaisse Sauce although some diners have suggested a lack of innovative options. For those wanting to make the most of London’s al fresco dining opportunities before Autumn arrives, Canal’s two large south-facing terraces are the ideal West London suntrap. Even better, there is an extensive wine list and cocktails provided by A Bar with Shapes for a Name – think Brown Butter Old Fashioneds and Rhubarb Gimlets. Canal’s selective offering of European flavours is ideal for sharing, with plenty of small plates such as a Taleggio and Onion Flatbread and Mangalitza Sausage. However, bear in mind that as one review at The Standard has suggested: ‘liking olive oil is a requirement for liking here’.
Tamil Food & Music Festival
Taking over the Georgian country house and gardens at Morden Hall set within 125 acres of National Trust parkland, this one-day Festival is back for a second year of celebrating Tamil food, drink, and culture. Visitors can expect a variety of food stalls, cocktail bars, artisan market stands, and plenty of live music and entertainment. Only a 2 minute walk from the underground station, it’s an easily accessible family day out, providing the chance to sample some vibrant and diverse cuisine. Tickets include entry to the event, with food and drink available on a pay as you go basis. The festival takes place on Saturday 9th August, with prebooking recommended to ensure entry. For foodies looking to try something new or those longing to make the most of British Summertime in London’s most picturesque surroundings, this might be just the thing. Click here to find out more.
Crumbs & Doilies X The Ned
In a collaboration with the much-loved London bakery, The Ned is offering an afternoon tea experience featuring some all-time favourite bakes, celebrating “classic flavours with a twist” in the old-school glamour of Millie’s Lounge. Since early-June, diners have been able to enjoy The Ned’s Executive Pastry Chef Darian Schmidt’s five-star take on Crumbs & Doilies’ classics alongside a glass of English Sparkling Wine. The menu boasts an impressive tea and coffee selection featuring an intriguing variety of herbal teas and alternative coffees such as Matcha and Beetroot Cacao Lattes. There is a regular and vegan/vegetarian menu on offer, both showcasing afternoon tea staples: finger sandwiches, scones, and cakes. Crumbs & Doilies fans will be pleased to see the brand’s beloved cereal milk flavour featured, as well as a breakfast-inspired Roly Poly drawing upon the flavours of orange marmalade and Earl Grey. Click here to peruse the menu or book a table.
Fancy a Mystery Picnic?
Sometimes there’s nothing better than a good old-fashioned British picnic and if you want to add an element of adventure and surprise to your next one –you’re in luck. Great for family outings or unusual daytime dates, this is a self-guided experience involving solving clues and discovering hidden gems. First you pick your destination, with a wide variety available such as Notting Hill, Hampstead, or even Canterbury or The Cotswolds. Usually taking around 3 hours, picnic-goers will navigate a pre-planned itinerary, picking up elements of a stunning picnic spread as they stop at local foodie hot spots along their walking route. For more info and details, click here.