This September, Londoners will have a rare chance to explore Japanese wine at its finest. From 9 to 30 September 2025, LUNA Omakase will partner with Château Mercian, Japan’s oldest vineyard, to present an exclusive wine pairing menu at the city’s highest omakase restaurant. Tucked away on the ninth floor of 100 Liverpool Street, LUNA Omakase is a 12-seat dining room with sweeping views of St Paul’s Cathedral. Led by Executive Chef Leonard Tanyag, the restaurant is known for its Sosaku-style Edomae cuisine, a modern interpretation of traditional sushi that follows the twelve phases of the moon. For this special collaboration, Thesleff Group’s Head of Wine and Sake, Michele Orbolato, has curated four Japanese wines that match the precision and artistry of Chef Tanyag’s twelve-course menu. The pairings include the Château Mercian Rivalis Left Bank Chardonnay, which balances rich acidity with tropical fruit, and the Iwade Koshu Ortum, a limited release of just 1,100 bottles with citrus notes and a cooling mineral finish. The Koshu Gris de Gris brings a textural complexity with hints of apricot and Darjeeling tea, while the Mariko Syrah offers depth with spice, dark fruit, and fine tannins. Each has been selected to complement dishes ranging from king crab nigiri to wagyu beef sando, creating a dining experience that is both rare and memorable. Founded in 1870, Château Mercian was the first Japanese winery to adopt French winemaking techniques. Today, it produces award-winning wines across Yamanashi, Nagano, and Fukushima, and continues to shape Japan’s reputation in the global wine industry. For LUNA Omakase, this collaboration marks the first time London diners will be able to experience such a refined collection of Japanese wines in a single sitting. With only twelve seats available per service, the September series is one of the most exclusive dining events in London this year. It combines theatre, intimacy, and a deep respect for Japanese craftsmanship, offering a new perspective on both omakase and wine pairing in the capital. LUNA Omakase x Château Mercian runs from 9–30 September 2025.

There are few places in London where you can slip behind the kitchen door of a private members’ club and be guided through a menu by a chef with two decades at The Dorchester. Yet that is exactly what The Lansdowne Club is offering in its ninetieth year, with a new calendar of intimate one-day masterclasses led by Executive Head Chef Henry Brosi. The Mayfair institution, set within a Georgian mansion with 1930s Art Deco interiors, has long been admired for its discretion and elegance. Now it is inviting both members and non-members to experience its culinary world in a way usually reserved for insiders. Each masterclass welcomes no more than four guests, beginning with breakfast and a Buck’s Fizz in the Club’s Dining Room before moving into the private kitchen for a hands-on tutorial. Under Brosi’s direction, participants prepare seasonal dishes that reflect his signature style, which marries classical finesse with a reverence for British and European produce. The experience concludes with a five-course lunch paired with wines, served in the Dining Room where the atmosphere feels both timeless and quietly indulgent. The programme spans both seasonal and year-round themes. Spring guests might work with asparagus or sea trout, while autumn brings the allure of white truffle. Pasta making, chocolate work, and British shellfish are among the options that appeal to cooks who want to refine their technique while enjoying the intimacy of learning directly from one of London’s most accomplished chefs. Prices begin at £350 per person, a detail that underscores the exclusivity of the offering. In a city where most cooking schools feel either too formal or too commercial, The Lansdowne Club has found an appealing middle ground. The series is intimate, expertly run, and rooted in the atmosphere of a private club that has always attracted those with an appreciation for life’s finer details. It is an anniversary programme that feels celebratory but also quietly confident, an invitation to step inside Mayfair and discover the pleasures of cooking at the side of a master.

At Monterey Car Week, where collectors arrive with seven-figure classics and concept cars pose like runway models, a different kind of unveiling stole the spotlight. Aston Martin, the brand of Bond and understated British bravado, has announced a global partnership with Glenfiddich, the single malt Scotch that’s been teaching people to pronounce the word “Glen” properly since the 19th century. On the surface, whisky and cars might not seem like natural bedfellows. One is meant to be savoured slowly in crystal glasses, the other roars down racetracks or idles on Knightsbridge streets outside Harrods. But this collaboration makes a kind of luxurious sense: both brands are built on the alchemy of craftsmanship and performance, and both are searching for ways to turn heritage into experiences that feel relevant for the ultra-wealthy in 2025. To mark the partnership, Glenfiddich unveiled its 1976 Vintage — a 48-year-old single malt so rare only 50 bottles exist. Malt Master Brian Kinsman chose it not just because it’s old enough to remember disco, but because the mid-1970s marked a turning point for both brands. That was the era Glenfiddich put its stag’s head on every bottle and doubled down on innovation with a new still house, while Aston Martin was reimagining what a performance car could look and feel like. In other words: two icons reinventing themselves before anyone even knew they’d become icons. And in case anyone wondered whether a nearly 50-year-old Scotch pairs well with a hypercar, Aston Martin rolled out the Valhalla, its first plug-in hybrid supercar. A name that nods to Norse mythology but in practice means 998 horsepower, Formula One-inspired engineering, and a £600,000 price tag. Think of it as a glimpse into the future of Aston Martin: performance electrified, but with the emotional pull of its combustion ancestors. The 1976 Vintage itself sounds almost edible. Red berry sweetness on the nose, buttery pastry and spice, followed by oak tannins and stewed fruit, with a toasted wood finish that lingers like the scent of a good cigar. The whisky is bottled at 48.8% ABV, but of course you won’t be drinking this after a spin in the Valhalla — the brands are eager to stress they want you to “never drink and drive.” Instead, it’s a trophy bottle, the kind collectors display in temperature-controlled cabinets next to their car keys. The partnership will go beyond this launch. Both brands teased more “exclusive products and experiences” — code, most likely, for ultra-limited whiskies and Aston Martin events where the guest list is tighter than the security. At Monterey, the tie-up was toasted at The House of Aston Martin, complete with a pop-up whisky bar designed to appeal to the kind of collector who sees whisky not just as a drink but as an asset class. So why does this matter? Because it’s another example of how luxury brands are teaming up to sell not just products but lifestyles. Glenfiddich doesn’t just want to be on your bar cart; it wants to be part of your identity, the same way Aston Martin wants to be more than a car. Together, they’re crafting a story of British heritage meeting modern innovation, and they’re doing it with the kind of confidence that assumes their customers have the disposable income to collect both. Only 50 people in the world will get their hands on the 1976 Vintage. A few more will get to own the Valhalla. But for the rest of us, the partnership is still a spectacle — proof that even in an age of digital everything, the rarest forms of luxury are still about what can’t be replicated.

We were invited to a tasting of the à la carte menu at TH@51 , the signature restaurant at St. James’ Court, A Taj Hotel , just a stone’s throw from Buckingham Palace and Westminster. It’s the sort of location that makes you feel as if you should have arrived in a chauffeur-driven Bentley, wearing oversized sunglasses and an expression that says, I do this all the time . From the moment we stepped in, the warmth of the welcome set the tone for the evening. The staff greeted us with genuine smiles before escorting us to our table. The Setting We chose to sit in the conservatory, a glass-encased oasis just beyond the main restaurant and bar. Through the floor-to-ceiling panes, the courtyard unfurled like a private scene from a period drama: statues standing elegantly amongst flowers, a fountain whispering in the background. It’s hard to believe this serene hideaway exists in central London. No sirens, no honking traffic, not even the distant whir of a bus - just the gentle clinking of cutlery and the occasional rustle of leaves. Dining Style TH@51 specialises in Asian fusion , but in truth, the menu reads like a carefully curated passport: Indian , British , and Mediterranean influences are woven together in a way that makes the experience ideal for groups. Even the fussiest eater would find something to love. There’s also a nod to the Indian tradition of sharing. Every dish arrived with generous serving spoons, encouraging us to pass plates across the table - the kind of dining that sparks conversation and makes you feel at home, even in a hotel where the service is precise enough to warrant white gloves. Starters This is where the menu began to reveal its adventurous streak. We started with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern fusion favourites: We also chose from the Chaat Sketches - a section of the menu that reimagines India’s beloved street food snacks, adding refined plating and unexpected pairings. Our pick was the Mains Naan, served on the side, was a quiet triumph: warm, crisp at the edges, soft in the centre, lightly brushed with butter, and gently scented with garlic. No grease, no heaviness, just balance. Dessert We finished with two traditional Indian sweets: Overall Experience Dining at TH@51 is less about choosing between Indian, British, or Mediterranean and more about enjoying a well-choreographed dance between them. It’s refined without being stuffy, creative without being gimmicky, and every dish shows a commitment to quality ingredients.

We all have our vices. But your morning coffee doesn’t need to come from a global chain where everything tastes vaguely like disappointment and caramel syrup. London is full of independent cafés that offer more than just caffeine — they offer identity. Places where the pastries are handmade, the interiors have taste, and the flat whites aren’t served with a side of existential dread. Think Nordic minimalism in Camden, Aussie brunch in Hackney, third-wave espresso in Soho, and French patisserie in Marylebone. This isn’t just about coffee. It’s about how — and where — you choose to start your day. These cafés weren’t designed for transactions, but for slow mornings, open laptops, lingering glances, and long breakfasts that blur into lunch. From sunlit roasteries by the park to low-lit boltholes with cult pastries, this is a breakup letter to the chains. Consider this your guide to the spots that make mornings feel less like a routine and more like a ritual. You’ll never ask for a name on your cup again. Monmouth Coffee 27 Monmouth St, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9EU Monmouth Coffee is a London institution known for its carefully sourced beans and classic, no-frills approach to brewing. Their dedication to quality and consistency has made them a favourite among coffee purists and locals alike. Marchesi 1824 117 Mount St, London W1K 3LA Marchesi 1824 blends Italian heritage with London sophistication, serving elegant coffee alongside exquisite pastries. This café feels like a slice of Milan in the heart of the city, perfect for a refined coffee break. Baudry Greene 20 Endell St, London WC2H 9BD Baudry Greene is a stylish, light-filled spot where meticulous brewing meets beautifully crafted interiors. It’s a great place to enjoy a slow coffee while soaking up the calm atmosphere and friendly service. Antipode 28 Fulham Palace Rd, London W6 9PH Antipode is a bright café with a relaxed vibe, known for its strong, flavourful coffee and all-day brunch menu. The minimalist decor and welcoming team make it a popular hangout for creatives and coffee lovers. Hjem 157 Gloucester Road, SW7 4TH Hjem is a Scandinavian-inspired café offering delicate coffee blends and a cosy, minimalist space to unwind. Their attention to detail extends from the beans to the carefully selected pastries and light bites. Drury 188-189 188-189 Drury Ln, London WC2B 5QD Drury 188-189 is a chic, contemporary café tucked away in central London, combining excellent coffee with a stylish environment. It’s the perfect spot to recharge during a busy city day or meet friends over brunch. St. George Coffee 126 King's Rd, London SW3 4TR St. George Coffee is a bright, welcoming café focused on high-quality single-origin beans and expert roasting. Their carefully crafted drinks pair well with an inviting atmosphere and a small but thoughtful food menu. Glasshouse Coffee Bishop's Ave, London SW6 6EE Glasshouse Coffee prides itself on ethically sourced beans roasted to perfection, creating bold, balanced cups. Their modern yet cozy café is ideal for a quiet moment or a casual catch-up with friends. Milk 18-20 Bedford Hill, Balham, SW12 9RG Milk Café is a laid-back, neighbourhood favourite offering creamy lattes and comforting brunch dishes. With a friendly vibe and relaxed setting, it’s a great place to linger over coffee any time of day. Pavilion Victoria Park Victoria Park, Old Ford Rd., London E9 7DE Pavilion is the kind of café that makes you forget you're in a city, perched by the lake in Victoria Park, it serves strong coffee and flaky pastries to a steady stream of East London locals. The Sri Lankan-inspired brunch menu is worth queueing for, especially on sunny mornings. Darcie & May Green Grand Union Canal, Sheldon Square, Central W2 6DS Moored on the Grand Union Canal, Darcie & May Green brings Aussie-style brunch and vibrant energy to a colour-drenched barge. It’s fun, bold, and perfect for long, lazy catch-ups over coffee and banana bread. Wolfox at LOAFT 53 Shelton St, London WC2H 9JU Wolfox at LOAFT feels like a secret find - all monochrome interiors and artisanal flair. The coffee is roasted in-house and the menu leans organic, ideal for slow mornings in West London. Well Street Kitchen 203 Well St, London E9 6QU This cosy Hackney café has a no-fuss charm and a menu that champions good produce over trend-chasing. It’s where you go for a proper breakfast sandwich and a reliably strong brew. Lowry & Baker 339-341, 339 Portobello Rd, London W10 5SA Lowry & Baker is a petite, independently-run café on Portobello Road with vintage tables and handwritten menus. The coffee is great, but it’s the home-baked cakes and warm service that keep people coming back. Farm Girl Cafe 59 Portobello Rd, Notting Hill, W11 3DB A wellness-forward Notting Hill staple serving rose lattes, buckwheat pancakes, and all-day Californian sunshine - even on grey London mornings. The courtyard seating feels like a secret garden, with a side of adaptogens. Ottolenghi Notting Hill 287 Portobello Rd, W11 1LJ Part deli, part café, all flavour - Ottolenghi’s Notting Hill location is where you come for coffee and end up with three pastries, two salads, and zero regrets. The space is minimalist, but the food is maximalist in the best way. The Roasting Party 253 Pavilion Rd, London SW1X 0BP Small, buzzy, and refreshingly unpolished, this Aussie import turns out exceptional coffee without the usual London snobbery. A favourite with locals who take their flat whites seriously. Lily Vanilli Bakery The Courtyard, 18 Ezra St, London E2 7RH Lily Vanilli Bakery is a North London gem celebrated for its beautifully crafted cakes and pastries that taste as good as they look. Their coffee is thoughtfully sourced, making every cup a treat alongside their signature sweet creations.

There’s something seductive about stumbling into a new restaurant in London that feels like it’s been there forever. That’s exactly the effect Fire & Wine by Boxcar pulls off — hidden away on a quiet Marylebone street five minutes from the chaos of Oxford Street. It’s the type of place you want to pretend you discovered first. A rebrand of the much-loved Boxcar Bar & Grill, this new iteration arrives with open-fire cooking, a produce-led menu, and a Greek head chef whose experience reads like a Michelin-tinged passport. The vibe? Effortlessly warm, low-key elegant, and thoroughly nonchalant about the fact that nearly everything on the menu has touched open flame — including dessert. That’s right. Dessert. Cooked. Over. Fire. You had me at "burnt sugar." We took a seat on the terrace (London’s erratic July weather behaving for once) and began with cocktails. The drinks menu reads like your classics went to culinary school — a Negroni or Old Fashioned reworked with left-field ingredients. We kicked things off with two snack plates. The first was almost architectural in arrangement: nori tarama on pressed potato , a canapé that tasted like the seaside in silk gloves. Next up, a chicken liver parfait with blackberry on brioche, rich and glossy like the filling of a well-made truffle. Then came the stilton gougère , a.k.a. a tiny puff of cheesy joy, cleverly topped with slivers of apple — just enough fruit to cut the funk and make it feel like you were eating something light. (You weren’t. But who cares.) The second plate introduced lamb belly on toast, layered with tomato concasse and pickled onion. The lamb was sticky and indulgent, but it was the anchovy toast that left me blinking. You read anchovy and flinch — but what arrived was a surprisingly subtle, umami-packed bite where the tomato gently led the flavour profile, letting the anchovy play backup. Next came the small plates. The pork belly , cut thick and almost scandalously tender, came with a dollop of egg yolk and a dusting of pecorino — all the richness you want, with none of the guilt (because you’re in Marylebone, and calories obviously don’t count here). The tiger prawns were served shell-on, dressed in garlic and just a whisper of chilli, perched over seaweed. It was seafood restraint at its best — not a punch in the face, just a tap on the shoulder. And then, the mains. The surprise of the evening? A brie tortelloni dish that might have singlehandedly justified the rebrand. The pasta was textbook perfect, stuffed with creamy brie and laid atop a bed of chard that had just kissed the grill. The smoke lingered lightly in the background, like a good scent trail. Staff insisted we try it. They were right. Finally, dessert — and no, I hadn’t forgotten that promise of fire. I ordered the grilled croissant tiramisu . First of all, the croissant is house-baked. It arrives warm, caramelised at the edges, covered in a generous spoonful of tiramisu cream that melts into the folds like it belongs there. It was, in short, everything. The Pink Lady terrine with vanilla diplomat offered something lighter, more structured. The apple slices gave the diplomat cream a fresh crunch — one of those bites where the textures feel like they’ve been rehearsed. By the time we left, the terrace was packed. Word is clearly getting out. Fire & Wine by Boxcar isn’t just a rebrand. It’s a quiet statement: we’ve levelled up — now bring your appetite. Book now, or risk watching the fire from the outside.