Thursday, 23 May 2013

NIKKA WHISKY POP UP @ SMITHS OF SMITHFIELD


Is there a better accompaniment for good meat than quality whisky? Probably not. Nothing goes better with a rare steak than a nice single malt. Smiths of Smithfield know their meat, and for the next couple of weeks you’ll also be able to enjoy Nikka whisky before, during or after your meal too as the Japanese Whisky brand have popped up in the cocktail bar.



The concept follows the Japanese ideal of having a knowledgeable barman design your perfect drink based on your exact requirements. This is considered the height of sophistication in the Far East, a concept which has now arrived in London.

The pop up bar is only open until 31st May, so make sure to get involved as quickly as you can. Nikka is a whisky of the highest quality, equivalent to the finest scotch. Those new to whisky may choose to go for a fiery Nikka from the barrel, a smooth Nikka Coffee Grain, or smoky Nikka Pure Malt; while those who prefer a punchier hit may prefer the Nikka Taketsuru 17, a blend of single malts, or the pure single malts of Nikka Yoichi or Nikka Miyagikyo, all of which can be used to make some pretty tasty cocktails.

Tailor made suits might be a pipe dream, but tailor made cocktails are waiting for you at this quirky pop up...

67-77 Charterhouse Street, London, EC1M 6HJ
www.smithsofsmithfield.co.uk


Wednesday, 22 May 2013

POP UP PING PONG @ THE KENSINGTON


Imagine the perfect fun night...it would probably involve a bar, that's a given, it might have food like burgers, yeah we're getting somewhere now. How about a film screening...no wait some marathon ping pong activity! Yes we'e there...put all that together and what have you got? You've got Pop Up Ping Pong who are back next month in June at The Kensington pub near Olympia with two regulation-sized tables, all sorts of ping pong related craziness and food from #BRGR. You can even upload your favourite songs to their Spotifiy playlist here.

Tickets are just £5 with beers from £2.50 - you might want to get the match in early, whilst you're still seeing straight!

Sat 1st June, 6:30pm - 1:00am
The Kensington, 54 Russell Gardens, W14 8EZ
www.sidengo.com/popuppingpong

Tuesday, 21 May 2013

SUMMER SCREEN AT SOMERSET HOUSE


Summer Screen at Somerset House is back baby. The open air cinema screening set in the magnificent 18th century courtyard is something that has to be experienced. Things kick off in August but tickets go on general sale at 10.00 on Friday 24 May, so get your arse in gear people and book to avoid conversations like this  'well I tried to book but they are all sold out...we'll just have to go to Subway for your birthday instead'.

Exclusive presale for American Express Cardmembers (jammy gits) has already opened and Somerset House priority booking opens at 10.00am on Wednesday 22 May, just sign up to the newsletter pronto and follow the link.

Take a picnic and a cushion for the bum bum and enjoy the early evening DJ sessions before the show. For a full list of what is on and ticket info see here - there's some corkers including a couple of premieres, we caught On The Road there last year which included a chat with the cast, bar Kirsten as she was "busy" but that's a whole other film...

Thurs 8th Aug - Wed 21st Aug
Somerset House, Trust South Building, Strand, WC2R 1LA
www.somersethouse.org.uk



Monday, 20 May 2013

CHERRY COLA & DALSTON NITES SUMMER ROOF TOP PARTY


We're back baby and ready for the summer, teaming up with the magical Cherry Cola we are joining forces to bring you a summer roof top party to remember. Saturday 15th June see our sexy collaboration take over Dalston Roof Park along with the boys from Background Bars to bring fun in the sun with cocktails, beers, a barbie, live music and all day DJ's playing everything from classic rock n roll hits right through to those signature indie and alternative gems you know you are going to get at Cherry Cola and Dalston Nites. Spend the day chilling in the sun then party under the inflatable roof when the night rolls in. Get involved!



Tickets are £5, for pre-sale tickets email ben@londontheinside.com or pay on the door, but remember there is limited space guys...

Cherry Cola & Dalston Nites SUmmer Roof Top Party
Sat 15th June, 3pm - 12am
Dalston Roof Park18 Ashwin Street, E8 3DL London

Tuesday, 14 May 2013

SIMMONS BAR REOPENS...



Simmons Bar down by Kings Cross station has had a bit of a revamp and reopened looking more than a bit quirky. There's funky wall paper that looks like its been taken straight from an Austin Powers film, tables full of graffiti like the ones you used to have back in the day at school, vintage game consoles, a skull-shaped disco ball and a ton of old beer cans that line the walls. It's certainly what you would call an eclectic mix!

Even the cocktail menu has been given a facelift with drinks now served in old cups and saucers and pitchers in teapots. Cocktail names like The Broke Jack Mountain and the Chinese Whisper make it all very on trend, we gave both the thumbs up.

There's DJ's playing from Thursday to Saturdays where doors close at 3am and happy hour lasts a whole 5 HOURS meaning that from Monday to Friday between 4pm and 9pm you can get your hands on some cheap ass bevies with prices starting from £2.50. CASH BACK.

Check it out people,

32 Caledonian Road, London, N1 9DT
www.simmonsbar.co.uk

REGENT'S PARK OPEN AIR THEATRE...


Regent's Park Open Air Theatre kicks off its summer residency 2013 with the old classic To Kill a Mockingbird, running from 15th May - 16th June. Performances will be taking place right the way through to September and will include likes of The Sound of Music and Pride and Prejudice for the cultural amongst you and Dinosaur Zoo for the younger ones.

There's comedy on the bill if that's more up your street with Jimmy Carr taking the stand as well as some knock outs from the gang at the comedy club. Food is available to order but be warned you'll need to get down early to get your orders in! Take your pick from a selection of skewers from the BBQ and grab a glass of bubbly too.....Perfecto!

15th May - 8th Sept
Inner Circle, Westminster, NW1 4NU
www.openairtheatre.com

Monday, 13 May 2013

THE GIN GARDEN’S BOMBAY SAPPHIRE BOTANICAL EXPERIENCE


One of our favourite boozey pop-ups the Gin Garden have announced they are teaming up with one of our favourite hotels, The Hoxton and one of our favourite gins Bombay Sapphire to create The Gin Garden's Bombay Sapphire Botanical Experience. If there was ever a time you wanted to know more about the intricacies of gin and really get your nostrils, tongues and hands in there it is now people...HASHTAG ON TREND!

There will be three experiences to choose from including the Ultimate G&T Studio Masterclasses, Gin Botanical Fragrance Sessions, and a bespoke Infused Ultimate G&T Menu for private bookings.With daily sessions from 1pm guests will be taken through each step of the process by a botanical expert and get to know all about the different tastes. Create your own G&T's, blend your own scent and taste, taste, taste!

The Gin garden's Bombay Sapphire Botanical Experience is part of the Chelsea Fringe Festival, to secure you pace you can purchase your ticket here, priced £25.

Fri 24th May – Fri 31 May
The Hoxton Hotel, 81 Great Eastern St London, EC2A 3HU
www.hoxtonhotels.com

Friday, 10 May 2013

A SWIMMING POOL FILLED WITH BLOOD & GORE


Things are getting bloody strange in London...Not content with a pop-up human morgue Resident Evil have now announced they are to create a swimming pool filled with blood, torsos, brains, intestines, eyeballs, blood clots and all kinds of gruesome body parts. Watched over by real life Zombie lifeguards...

Run for your life people! Those brave enough to get in the pool and dive down deep will find collectible items which they can take home - don't worry there are goggles on loan. The16ft by 32ft large pool is over one metre deep and opens on 25th May for two days. Tickets are free and will be on offer from Mon 20th May.

Are you brave enough??

Sat 25th May & Sun 26th of May
Jupiter Wharf, London, E3 2PL
http://residentevil.eventbrite.com

A ROWING MACHINE POWERED CINEMA AND FREE WHISKY...


The Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge 2013 is the world’s toughest rowing race, and you could take part. Well sort of! This rowing is for a reason and it's not over the Atlantic, it's by Tower Bridge and is needed to power a giant 30 foot screen to become the world’s first cinema powered by rowing machines.

The idea is ticket holders to this free event will be able to take part in the rowing, or just sit back and enjoy watching the film, an epic adventure film revealed 48 hours before the screening. Powered by 8 stationary rowing machines, there will be no slacking here or you won't see the end!

But fear not you can fuel up on a free dram of Talisker Storm Single Malt Whisky accompanied by fish & chips and you can find out more about the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge 2013, meet past and future Atlantic rowers, or just kick back and watch the film....we know what we'll be doing!

To apply for tickets: RSVP to rosa@taliskercinema.com

Rowing Machine Powered Cinema
Wed 22nd May, 6pm - 9pm, over 18'a only
Potters Fields Park, SE1 2AA
www.taliskerwhiskyatlanticchallenge.com

Thursday, 9 May 2013

NOMAD CINEMA RETURNS...


Back and ready to roam this year is Nomad with their outdoor film screenings. New venues, extra dates...it's all going on. Mid July will see the first of their screenings come to life and Hix’s FishDog will be taking care of hunger needs in in a beautiful 1971 Citroen H van. Expect the classic fish finger sandwich, along with a selection of other delectable ‘dogs’ and sides.

Tickets are priced £12.50 for adults and £8.50 for the school goers - dress up in a uniform and try your luck, you might save four quid. To see the full program of action go here. Be quick, fun stuff often gets scooped up and pooped out!

14th Jul - 21st Sept
Various Venues
www.whereisthenomad.com

NEW OPENING: STORIES ON BROADWAY MARKET


Mothership Group, the brains behind The Queen of Hoxton and The Book Club are rather excitingly starting something new that fuses daytime brunching, cocktail-swilling, thought-provoking cultural events and contemporary art over at Broadway Market...we welcome Stories. Their aim is to be a hub for local creatives to meet, greet and work over their brunch, served tapas style and then seal the dirty little dealings over New York inspired cocktails on tap, which we are told are served quicker than you can say ‘Negroni’...Yikes!

Locally sourced food with plenty of veggie and healthy options, but fear not you can still get your thick-cut ham, egg and chips. There is local and craft beers, wines and great coffee to enjoy and you can get lost in the illustrations upon the walls. It sounds pretty damn tempting...we know what you're thinking, and no you can't move in. A laid-back light and airy day space turned intimate by night motivated to inspiring creativity, that will be Stories then!

Stories, 30 – 32 Broadway Market, E8 4QJ
Open daily 10am – midnight
www.storiesonbroadway.com

Wednesday, 8 May 2013

RANDOM ACCESS MEMORIES AT THE VAULTS...


Enter the underground world as a piece of human data and explore and interact with the components around you as The Vaults is transformed into an epic computer! That's a bit Daft Punk init? YES my dear...it is. To celebrate the release of Daft Punk's new album Longplay are taking a retro view of the future and putting it slap bang at The Vaults, a new, hidden and extremely exclusive space, beneath Waterloo Station.

The night will also pay tribute to the albums collaborators and major influences with an eclectic mix of music from Nile Rodgers, Giorgio Moroder, Chilly Gonzales, Michael Jackson, Steely Dan and many more with the Daft Punk's new album Random Access Memories climatically played in full.

Immerse yourself in a theatrical Daft Punk experience. Dress code will be revealed through a viral video published on www.lplay.co.uk.

Sun 26 May, 8pm
£5 advanced, £8 on the door. Tickets available here.
The Vaults, Arch 236, Leake Street, SE1 7NN

WU’S CRUISE...



When it's nice and hot outside you go for a stroll, maybe along the canal where you'll think bloody hell it's a bit George Michael isn't it. And you'll want a drink...well this year you'll be in luck as throughout the summer the people behind Ridley Road Market Bar a.k.a Wu’s, have boarded their narrow boat to serve up those famous Ginger Mojitos and ice-cold cans of Red Stripe as well as specially made Iced Tea and Coffee and a selection of charcuterie plates from Picco Salumi. Imagine that, it's like a cheap trip to Venice only minus the (Sl)Easy-jet flight...

The boat will be at Broadway Market next Thursday 16th where it will stay the whole weekend. After that aim your strolling towards Victoria Park over Field Day weekend 23rd-27th May, and the following weekend 30th May to 2nd June between Victoria Park and Broadway Market. Just make sure you don't get too close to the canal edge!

Thurs - Sun, from 16th May – 20th Sept

Various locations along Regents Canal including:

Broadway Market
Victoria Park
Camden Lock
Haggerston
Granary Square
Kings Cross Angel
Islington

SING-A-LONG AT THE BOOK CLUB...


"You're the one that I want, you are the one I want" Seriously who doesn't like signing along to the movies? Which is why we nearly wee'd when we saw The Book Club and Experience Cinema were teaming up to create an extra special sing-a-long cinema event.

Not only will you be able to watch Grease, Dirty Dancing and Purple Rain on a giant screen you will also be supplied with wireless headphones so you can sing, dance, drink and party along to the movie to your hearts content. Go on have the time of your life!

Frame will be on hand to show you some moves and there will be food and drinks too. Let's Go Crazy! Tickets cost £15 and include silent disco when the movies ends...

Fri 24th May - Sun 26th May, 6pm - 11pm
Leonard Street Car Park, Leonard Street, EC2A 4RH
www.wearetbc.com 




Tuesday, 7 May 2013

ZOO LATES RETURNS...


Dig out you leopard print and get down and dirty as London Zoo opens it's doors for another year of after dark zoo action. Zoo Lates, which takes place on Friday nights throughout June and July, is the only time of year that you can grab a bevy from the garden wine bar and have a gander at the giraffes and the penguins whilst you drink it.

Although a heads up, with special additions this summer including 2 new Sumatran tigers at the Tiger Territory exhibit we probably wouldn't have to many vinos, don't want to be falling in that tiger cage do you? There's more than just the animals if you go down for the Friday sesh and with adult sized playrooms (yep that's giant ball ponds people!) and a bit of cabaret and comedy going on too there's plenty to keep you entertained.

There's also the Zoo Lates international street food festival were you can feast on the grub of your choice from any of the 20 vendors who will be on site. Tickets are on sale now from www.zsl.org/zoolates. If you fancy it our advice is to get on it quick as for a limited time only you'll get 40% discount on tickets for Fridays in July.

Friday nights in June & July
London Zoo, Regents Park, NW1 
www.zsl.org/zoolates

Monday, 6 May 2013

QUEEN OF HOXTON ROOFTOP RE-OPENS


Now that golden ball in the sky is showing signs of offering us some warmer weather all things outdoorsie are looking up...

The Queen of Hoxton's rooftop is throwing itself back into the action for another killer summer season. There were some awesome events happening there last year and this year shows more of the same with a series of rooftop headphone disco parties with well-known guest DJs such as Norman Jay and Jazzie B playing summertime jams. They are also introducing their morning to late afternoon Hot Tub Tropicana which is set to be kitted out with loungers, a paddling pool and rumour has it, a hot tub. A bloody HOT TUB! And of course the Rooftop Film Club will be back with a stake of cult classics for your viewing pleasure.

All that and a revamped food menu featuring pulled pork and plenty of summer iced tea and frozen cocktails. Aim for the sky peeps, it's where it's at.

Open every Saturday from the 11th May, 12am to 10pm.

Queen of Hoxton, 1 Curtain Road, EC2A 3JX
www.queenofhoxton.com

Saturday, 4 May 2013

PROPSTORE POPS-UP AT THE NATIONAL THEATRE


Good news people, The Propstore at The National Theatre is back again after a successful summer season last year. Located slap bang on the river front, the cafe-bar uses old props from theatre productions as furniture and decor making it a super quirky little place which is perfect to hang in day and night.

There's also a kitchen serving English Street Food classics - we can fully recommend the pulled pork sarnies - a bar serving summer cocktails, caramel vodka, English wines and beers and live DJ's until 2am. Who'd of thought a trip to the National Theatre could be such fun?

A great addition to the South Bank's summer drinking scene...

Open now until 28th Sept
National Theatre, South Bank, London, SE1 9PX
www.nationaltheatre.org.uk

Thursday, 2 May 2013

NEWS: THE WINDSOR CASTLE OPENING...


Isn't Clapton becoming quite the place? The pubs opening up are making this part of town one hell of a summer hangout. First up was The Clapton Hart opening it's doors last year, then just last week The Start by Hackney Downs transformed what was The Three Sisters and now this Friday is the opening of The Windsor Castle, now look what we got...a bloody pub crawl!

From the team behind Birthdays in Dalston, the great big Victorian pub on Lower Clapton Road may be a little rough around the edges but the doors are opening none the less. You'll find Meantime London Pale Ale, London Lager and Yakima Red, Blue Moon, Brooklyn and a selection of more standard lagers on tap. There is also a garden and they will, at some point be serving food. Interesting...

Opens Fri 3rd May
135 Lower Clapton Rd, London, E5 8EQ
www.thewindsorcastleclapton.com

Wednesday, 1 May 2013

BLOODSHAKE


There is a new indie blowout in town, Bloodshake who are taking over The Garage in Islington every Friday kicking off this week. The weekly club night will see live performances from up and coming bands along with guest DJ sets. The upstairs room will feature guest hosts and run a theme to differentiate from the main room, keep an eye out for yours truly taking this over in June.

Tickets are £5 in and are on sale now. Bloodshake plays all the hits, old and new. Get involved, we are...

Kicks off Fri 3rd May
The Garage, 20-22 Highbury Corner, N5 1RD
www.bloodshake.net

Tuesday, 30 April 2013

ROOFTOP FILM CLUB RETURNS...


It's that time when all of the summer happenings start rearing their heads and The Rooftop Film Club is no exception as they take their position back on, well rooftops. There's two venues, Kensington Roof Gardens south of the river and The Queen of Hoxton in East London. Big screen action with wireless headphones and comfy seats on five nights a week...'In off the reds!'. Outdoor cinematic delights...choose your film, act fast and book to avoid appointment.

To see the full list of what's on go here. Tickets are priced £12.

The Queen of Hoxton, 1-5 Curtain Road, EC2A 3JX
Kensington Roof Gardens, 99 Kensington High Street, W8 5SA
www.rooftopfilmclub.com

Sunday, 28 April 2013

BENARES BLEND...


We love a cocktail or two, so we jumped at the chance to attend a special evening at Benares in Berkeley Square, the Michelin star restaurant by Atul Kochhar hosted by the speakeasy Purl of Marylebone. Benares Blend is a monthly event which features different mixologists from across the capital creating modern cocktails mixed with Atul’s fine Indian flavours.

The first drink of the evening was Benares signature cocktail, the passion fruit chutney martini. Chutney, isn’t that for poppadoms? We hear you cry. Well not anymore...

Next up the guys from Purl treated us to the super smooth Bribe. A drink based on the exchange of alcohol, cigars and money for leniency from authorities during the Prohibition era. The Bribe cocktail is a mixture of Chivas 12 and cardamom bitters, smoked in a decanter of apple wood and cinnamon, then poured into a crystal cut tumbler, finished with grapefruit zest and sat on top a dollar bill note.

Our other favourite drink was the Venetian Spritz. A simple drink of prosecco and Aperol finished with a peach and wine foam, which grew bigger and bigger like some sort of chemistry experience. It tasted like liquid Love Hearts and everyone loves a packet of love hearts.

All of this was served with Atul Kochhar’s signature serving plate which included Paneer Chilli Fry, Fish Seekh and the super addictive Tandoori Chicken. Priced at £35 per person including the masterclass, it’s a entertaining evening and beats just going to any old cocktail bar. Next up to host is BAFTA 195 who have some Great Gatsby creations in store on Wed 1st May.

12a Berkeley Square House Berkeley Square, Mayfair, W1J 6BS
www.benaresrestaurant.co.uk

Friday, 26 April 2013

EVERYMAN X SHRIMPY'S ON THE ROAD FILMS


Hit the road and head to the Kings Cross Filling Station where you will find Everyman Cinemas parked up for a 12 day residency showing only the best road films. 

Taking place in a disused BP garage, which overlooks Regents Canal, the space is enveloped on three sides by a curved glowing screen. There will be blankets, headphones, a gully stocked bar and hot dogs - just like in the movies. It would seem that right now is the perfect time for a road trip...

Until Sun 5th May
Prices range £10-£20 
KXFS, Goods Way, N1C 4UR

GOTHENBURG PRESENTS...WAY OUT WEST


London has been captivated by a few things Scandinavian recently. Remember the winter forest in Brick Lane, the week long Danish pop up bar with furniture, lights, food and drinkies, and then there's of favourite Scandi joint Cooper & Wolf serving top notch grub. That love affair continues with a one day celebration of the Swedish capital hipster city of Gothenburg and their musical culture.

Way Out West festival is a music festival which takes place every August in Gothenburg. To launch the festival to a UK audience they have a special event taking place at Londons Electrowerkz on Tuesday April 30th which includes live performances and DJ's.

Tickets are FREE, though limited and available from gothenburg.eventbrite.co.uk or you can try your luck on the door.


Sister duo Say LOU LOU who are currently making waves on the music scene thanks to their mesmerizing vocals on their impressive debut single ‘Maybe You’ and captivating singer and lyricist LUNE will be performing on the night. Spinning a taste of Scandinavian classics along with the most cutting edge new music is BBC 6Music's Adam Dineen along with Way Out West DJ's. Get involved!

Gothenburg Presents…Way Out West
Tues, 30th April, 7:30pm til late
Electrowerkz, 7 Torrens St, Islington, EC1V 1NQ
www.wayoutwest.se/en

YBA PRESENTS - OUTLAW PHOTOSHOW



If you follow us on instagram then you may have noticed our picture of the Fountain of Youth, a new coconut water from the guys behind the Michelberger Hotel which is launching in the UK with a pop-up joint in Dalston.

The opening night is tonight and not only will there be tons of artwork from cool and quirky characters we also hear there is "a ton of free liquor, prints zines shirts and junk for sale and background music courtesy of Eat The Rich" That's your Friday night sorted then...

The show will also be open in the daytime on Saturday and Sunday.



Fri 26th Apr, 7pm - 10pm
378 Kingsland Road, E8 4AA
www.michelbergermonkey.com

Thursday, 25 April 2013

NEWS: THE STAR BY HACKNEY DOWNS OPENS...


Opening this very eve is The Star by Hackney Downs which used to be The Three Sisters and brings a fresh, refurbished take on a long standing pub. The new boozer will be another addition to the Clapton pub scene, which is fast becoming the place to be and promises to be a relaxed atmosphere that allows locals to indulge in a pint, food and some music on their door step.

On the menu you can find Mario's stoned baked pizza from the Star of Bethnal Green and local ale brands; Trumans Brewery, Redchurch Beer and London Fields Brewery along with Tiger and Becks for the lager drinkers.

The scaffolding is down, the paint is dry and doors are open.

The Star, 35 Queensdown Road, Clapton E5 8NN
www.starbyhackneydowns.co.uk

Wednesday, 24 April 2013

THE SHACKLEWELL ARMS 2ND BIRTHDAY


The Shacklewell Arms is turning two...how time bloody fly's. Dubbed 'London's best pub for live music' the Dalston boozer is holding birthday celebrations on Friday 26th April with a special live performance from Geneva Jacuzzi along with Beach Creep, Eat Your Own Ears, Field Day and SEXBEAT DJ's spinning some sexy sounds. Frequenters will be pleased to know there will be complimentary Desperados shoved in your hand on arrival. Fancy it? Well get yourself there, it's free in, from 8pm through to the wee hours of 3am.

71 Shacklewell Lane Dalston, E8 2EB
www.shacklewellarms.com

Monday, 22 April 2013

LONDON'S BREWING...

 

East London has been the centre of the city's craft beer phenomenon for a few years now, from the well-established London Fields Brewery, to new up and comers such as Hackney's Crate brewery. All the craft breweries are producing genuinely different beers, made with a love and skill that cannot be found in mainstream industrial breweries.

Good beer is an artform, and the passion that craft brewers have for their product makes them true artists. Some of master brewers will have the opportunity to display their beers at the London's Brewing beer festival which takes place on Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th May at the London Fields Brewery brewhouse. More importantly though, you'll be able to try them all!

Other breweries including Fullers, Sambrook's Redemption and the Windsor & Eton breweries will be taking part, so with over 100 beers from 40 different suppliers you're sure to find something you like! Other than beer, there will be delicious locally-sourced food, live music during the day and DJ sets during the evening to keep you entertained while you enjoy your pints.

Tickets start from £5 for entry, or £12 for entry, food and a pint, or £20 for nine tasters of beers and a commemorative glass. Get involved...

Sat 4th May & Sun 5th May

The Railway Arches 369-370 Helmsley Place E8 3SB

www.londonbrewers.org

 

WINE WEDNESDAYS...


Wednesdays will never be the same again thanks to new pop up Wine Wednesdays. Brought to you by the brains behind the aptly named 'A Grape Night In' Wine Wednesdays are held in The Skyroom at London Bridge every Wednesday throughout the summer.

Each one has a different theme, with wine and a selection of small plates to match. We went down to check out the first in the series, SKINT! Thankfully there was no Lambrini in sight, rather a selection of wines that get you real value for your hard earned dollar. Our favourite was a Chilean Chardonnay served with a chicken and mash pie. The Chardonnay was crisp and refreshing and pie hearty and tasty.

Tickets cost £20 which gets you a wine based cocktail on arrival, ours was served in a tea cup, three glasses of wine and three of the small plates.

There are also cheaper tickets available that cost £5 and gets you a cocktail on arrival then its up to you to choose from a selection of wines and grub. A cracking evening to get you well and truly over hump day...


Every Wednesday
136-148 Tooley Street, SE1 2TU

http://edibleexperiences.com/agni

Thursday, 18 April 2013

BACKGROUND BARS @ DALSTON ROOFTOP PARK


Background Bars at Dalston Rooftop Park is back, returning to tantalize our greedy little need for fun. Brimming with flowers, fruits and vegetables and we're not just talking about its inhabitants that’s the fully solar powered community roof allotment. As well as using the edible garden to create some summer tea themed cocktails there will be weekly free films on a Tuesday, unplugged sessions and DJs. With the inflatable roof to keep us from the pesty rain there is shed loads of reasons to get your behind on the roof.

Get down to the opening night and see for yourself, we'll be there ;)

Opens Friday 3rd May...

Also check out this months LDNER Louis, who is the man behind the magic from Background Bars.

Opening hours:
Monday 9am – 11pm; Tuesday to Thursday 9am – 11pm; Friday 9am – midnight;
Saturday 3pm – midnight; Sunday 3pm – 10pm; Bar open from 6pm weekdays and 3pm weekends.

Dalston Roof Park
Print House, 18 Ashwin Street, London, E8 3DL


MAN OF STEEL...


The new Superman film, Man of Steel looks pretty epic and should be with three-time Oscar® nominee Amy Adams as Daily Planet journalist Lois Lane, and Oscar® nominee Laurence Fishburne as her editor-in-chief, Perry White. With Clark Kent’s adoptive parents, Martha and Jonathan Kent, are Oscar® nominee Diane Lane and Academy Award® winner Kevin Costner. What a cast.



In cinemas June 14th.

Wednesday, 17 April 2013

CULTURE, ALIENATION, BOREDOM AND DESPAIR...


Twenty years on from its release, 'Generation Terrorists' remains the blueprint for Manic Street Preachers' career. Planned as a magnum opus that would sell sixteen million copies and lead to the band's dissolution, their debut album - much like the band back then - was wildly ambitious, confused, exciting and utterly unique. It remains the truest distillation of their ever present us-against-the-world strategy.

'Culture, Alienation, Boredom and Despair' was originally planned as a 20 minute DVD extra to accompany the remastered and expanded edition of 'Generation Terrorists'. Heavenly Films and Hackney Picture house are screening the rarely seen full length 76 minute version made by acclaimed filmmaker Kieran Evans (Kelly + Victor, Finisterre,) and longtime Manicscollaborator Robin Turner.

'Generation Terrorists' represents a period of wide-eyed optimism in the Manics' career - a fact clearly reflected in the warmth of the conversations captured in the film. Covering everything from self-financed singles and pay-to-play gigs through to the emotional resonance of the band's epochal eighteen track major label funded debut album. 'Culture, Alienation, Boredom and Despair' sees the Manics and key players such as Martin Hall (the band's longtime manager), Bob Stanley (Saint Etienne), Steve Brown (Generation Terrorists producer) & James Brown (ex-NME) talk candidly about the band's early career, their debut album and the circumstances that helped spawn it. These conversations are framed by a rich archive of video and printed material that the filmmakers were granted access to by the band.

The film will be supported by five Manic Street Preachers promo video's personally selected by Nicky Wire and seldom seen on the big screen.

Tickets are priced at £12, get yours here.

Tuesday, 16 April 2013

THE WINDOW SESSIONS @ MINT VINTAGE

Bands, beer, music…all on the pavement in the first of a series of Guerrilla style gigs at Mint Vintage as they launch ‘The Window Sessions’. Yes, MINT are getting involved in some sexy maneuvers on Stoke Newington High Street, to bring tuneage to the streets of Dalston through their very own shop window as we venture into the warmer weather. Kicking off this Thursday the 18th at 7PM you can find Anto Dust and also The Dub Rats performing in the window of MINT. What's more after the session in the window is finished the party moves just next door to the White Hart where both bands will play a full set.

Summer’s a coming…get involved. Check out our interview with the man behind MINT Mr James Wright here.

The Window Sessions, Thur 18th, 7PM
MINT Vintage, 71-73 Stoke Newington High St, N16 8EL
www.mintvintage.co.uk

THE CANDLELIGHT CLUB


Cocktail bars seem to be popping up all over the place at the minute but The Candlelight Club offers something a little bit different. Not only is the location a complete secret the bar is lit entirely by, wait for it...candle light. BOOM.

The bar has a 1920s style and there are themed events held every Friday and Saturday night. Each event has its own specially designed cocktail menu as well as live 1920s jazz band and vintage DJ. It's not strict fancy dress but if you want to make the effort think 1920s flappers and gangsters, mind you'll probably want to watch your feathers on the naked flames peeps!


This weekends events may have sold out but there are still tickets left for the Kentucky Derby Special and The Great Gatsby in May. Expect some damn good cocktails made famous by some of the most notorious illicit watering holes of the time.

Kentucky Derby Special, Fri 3rd & Sat 4th May
The Great Gatsby, Fri 10th & Sat 11th May
Location TBC when buying a ticket
www.thecandlelightclub.com

THE LIFE OF PI AT LONDON ZOO


How about four nights of nothing but Pi? The Life of Pi we mean... the box office smash is being screened inside ZSL London Zoo where you can watch Pi Patel and his fateful voyage with Bengal tiger, Richard Parker, in HD Blu-Ray. The exclusive “silent” screening will be amongst the monkeys and birds, and we're not talking about other audience members, that's real monkey's and real birds, obviously kept inside their enclosures...we cant have them running around everywhere, what do you think this place is, a...anyway tickets are £20.00 and include a glass of champagne, before enjoying a twilight tour of brand new Tiger Territory, where you’ll get the chance to see Sumatran tigers Jae Jae and Melati in their new home. AWESOME!



Beware, there are a limited number of just 300 spaces available per night, so get moving and snap up your tickets here.

Mon 29 April – Fri 3 May 2013, 7:00pm – 10:30pm
ZSL London Zoo, Outer Circle, Regent's Park, NW1 4RY
www.zsl.org/lifeofpi

Monday, 15 April 2013

BRING ON THE STORM...


Calling all Whisky lovers, there's a storm brewing on the South Bank - no change there then we hear you cry, well actually there is it's a whisky storm. That's right you heard correct a whisky storm. Talisker Storm whisky is creating an interactive storm on the Southbank where for three hours you can take on the elements of wind, rain, lightning, fog and thunder within the 25ft high installation, created to showcase the tempestuous weather of the distillery's home in Skye.

Rain macs and umbrellas are provided and a complimentary glass of Talisker’s whisky will warm you up after the ordeal. There is also the chance to be crowned "storm challenge champion" which wins you a bottle of the gold stuff. It would be fair to say your chances of winning are pretty high considering the practice that has been put in with the weather conditions of late. Get down to the Southbank and experience the fun, for there is a storm a’comin...

To attend RSVP rosa@taliskerstorm.com

Bring On The Storm
Wed 24th April, 6pm - 9pm
Southbank side of The Design Museum, SE1 8XX

Saturday, 13 April 2013

BELLE ÉPOQUE CIRCUS PARTY

 

This Saturday sees the Belle Époque Circus roll into town and pitch up at The Village Underground. If you're a fan of the dramatic or the spectacular then this event could be for you. Naturally for an event at the Village Underground, it will be an evening of decadent excess with drinking and dancing all night, but this time with a twist.

Entertainment for the evening comes from a wide variety of acrobats and trapeze artists, the sexy and glamorous side of circus performers, don't expect clowns with custard pies! Guests are also encouraged to dress up to be part of the evening, so dig out your ringmaster jacket; and go all out with the glitter, sequins and feathers. We're told that the dress code is rigorously enforced, so ditch your denim and leave your trainers at home. Dressing to impress is the only way at Belle Époque.

This is a one off event on Saturday 13th April, with the doors of the big top open from 8pm, with the acrobatics show kicking off at 9pm. The venue is open until 2am for drinking, dancing and all the usual Saturday night hedonism. Tickets are £20.

Village Underground, 54 Holywell Lane, EC2A 3PQ

www.belleepoqueparty.com

 

Thursday, 11 April 2013

REASON AND MANKIND OPENS...


There's another new cocktail bar on the block, Reason and Mankind which offers an interesting twist on cocktails and is bang on trend with their basement speakeasy. The place is decked out to look the part, if the smoking ban never existed big fat cigars would be lit, it's a little like a scene from MadMen.

We were, for one night only Don Drapper enjoying a surprising menu of inventive drinks. One of our favs from the night came to us first, Nelsons Blood a concoction of Moet Champagne with a veil of port, strawberry and pepper reduction. A take on a Bellini complete with pipette which  is used to squirt the reduction aka the 'blood' into your glass to suit your liking.

The Satan's Whiskers a mixture of gin, dry vermouth with grapefruit and orange is also worth a try. The menu is split into three sections; 'Of masters past' old school traditional cocktails but with a quirky twist, 'Mood Enhancers' something you adventurous lot can try where your drink changes and develops as you drink and none alcoholic. Cocktails range from £9 to £12, not bad considering the location.

Worth a visit to try some creations, you'll have plenty to talk about that's for sure...

4 Winsley Street, W1W 8HF
www.libertineclublondon.com

Sunday, 7 April 2013

DALSTON NITES


Alright ladies and gents, you can feel a change in the air, it's getting a little warmer. No really it is. And Dalston Nites is hotting up again at babble.jar where we are joined by some special guest DJ's from London In Stereo, WHOOP WHOOP.

It's FREE entry, as always, and you can find the fun in the basement with loud, fuzzy alternative indie music, or grab a table upstairs before coming down to the dark side. We're doing a Saturday night this month so mark the 27th in your diary. Let us know what tracks you want us to play and we'll sort it out...FYI we don't do Calvin Harris...expect TVOTR, the Yeah Yeah Yeah's new one, The Walkmen, Test Icicles, BRMC along with 60's classics, 70's glam, 80's punk, 90's nostalgia and plenty of new bands like Luls, Peace, Beaty Heart, Melody's Echo Chamber, Bleached, The Family Rain and more. BOOM.

Join the facebook invite here.

Dalston Nites, FREE entry
Babble Jar, 176 Stoke Newington High Street, N16 7JL

Thursday, 4 April 2013

WIN COCKTAILS AT THE MAYOR OF SCAREDY CAT TOWN


Why not treat yourself to Sunday brunch this weekend? Go on, the bank holiday doesn't have to feel like it's over. And whilst The Breakfast Club pop-up in Angel might have ended you can celebrate the four day week at their new The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town brunch event. Expect big Breakfast Club brunches, Bloody Marys, cocktail specials and a DJ spinning the perfect soundtrack to your Sunday - no techno here mate.

And to get you started we've got four cocktails to give one of our lucky readers. Fancy throwing away your sensible sunday well enter the comp by facebooking or tweeting 'THE MAYOR OF SCAREDY CAT TOWN @thebrekkyclub TURNS FROWNS UPSIDE DOWN @londontheinside'.

We'll pick the winners at random and notify. This competition closes at noon on Friday 5th April.

Good luck now

The Mayor of Scaredy Cat Town, 12 -16 Artillery Lane E1 7LS
www.themayorofscaredycattown.com

Wednesday, 3 April 2013

THE VILLAGE GREEN


Hackney is about to unveil its all new independent trading outlet in Hackney Downs which features 5 brand spanking new shops. Opening this month there is a pretty eclectic mix of products and produce on offer which in a nutshell looks like this;

THE HACKNEY PEDDLER: More bikes for more people - saving, fixing and selling classic bikes from the UK, France and Holland. The Peddlers also offer a range of services, parts and unique accessories.
PORTAMENTO: A mix and match with a dose of unexpected where food shares the space with accessories, pieces from new designers and art
MULTEMYR: A transparent women's wear label introducing a refined, classic and high-quality clothing range made from 100% natural fibres.
ATOMICA GALLERY & SHOP: Exhibiting and selling the best in under-exposed new contemporary art
SMOKING GUN VINTAGE: Handpicked relics for the rebellious at heart

Furthermore, to mark the occasion there will of course be a launch party, this will happen on Thursday 18th April at The Village Green itself with an after party (oh naughty!) at The Russet. Expect treats, tunes and live performance while getting to know the newbies inside this creative hub.

RSVP to hdsreception@creativenetworkpartners.com

The Village Green, Amhurst Terrace, E8 2BT
www.hackneydownsstudios.wordpress.com

Monday, 1 April 2013

EDIBLE ART CLASS @ THE BOOKCLUB


All you little scallywag wags out there who like nothing better than playing with your food listen up 'cos this is the event for you...

The Edible Art Class sees The Book Club join forces with Animal Vegetable Mineral for a night of food mayhem on Tuesday 9th April. Stand back as your tasty tutor guides you through an introduction to art and edible expression which uses all of your senses, from lickable life drawing (kinky) to edible painting-by-numbers.

There's chocolate model-making and sugar graffiti too but don't you won't be making any caterpillars made of sandwiches... Advance tickets for the event have now sold out but can be purchased on the door for £12.

Tues 9th April, 7pm - 11pm
The Book Club, 100-106 Leonard Street, EC2A 4RH
www.avmcuriosities.com

NO.3 CROMWELL ROAD IS OPEN...


3 Cromwell Road the new restaurant/bar/club is open. Snuggled between a row of townhouses with stella views of the Natural History Museum and Victoria & Albert Museum, and just one power lunge away from South Kensington underground, it's perfect location for making the last tube home.

The building itself is steeped in history – Jimi Hendrix played an intimate live performance here - and has transformed from a former restaurant, casino and private members club into a 3 floor haven of funky soul, ornate style, and overdraft inducing drinks.

The décor showcases the buildings original features, such as the intricate ceiling design and the grand staircases, all brought into the 21st century by some not so subtle artwork. Neon lights adorn pretty much every room in the house including our favourite the ‘No Powder in These Rooms’ above the toilets.

On the 1st floor you’ll find the restaurant, a relaxed, cosy space we’d call ‘Glamorous Safari’. It’s all vintage chandeliers, elephant tusks and trophy tigers heads. The ground floor is the bar ‘The Back Room’ which has an impressive collection of premium spirits. A humungous chandelier is reflected in the adjoining room by a modern LED version.

Downstairs gets a bit ‘fifty shades’ with padded leather walls and mirrored caves, ‘The Basement’ is a playboy’s paradise – Grey Goose at £3500 anyone? This place is a real chameleon, this is clear from its previous incarnations, but also in the sense that you could head there for dinner, a quiet drink or a heavy night out. It’s the perfect one stop shop for a fun date night.

3 Cromwell Road, South Kensington, SW7 2HR
www.3cromwell.com

Thursday, 28 March 2013

SECRET CINEMA RETURNS...

It's back, the legend that is Secret Cinema and it's bigger, better and completely different than any which have gone before. Taking place between April 24th and June 9th in a secret London location this marks the  20th production from the experimental cinema experts.

As usual the event is secret (clue's in the name!) and guests are asked to tell no-one. Tickets went on sale today and some dates have already sold out. Bag yours online now for £43.50 which may seem pretty steep but we hear it's worth every penny. But remember tell NO ONE!

Wed 24th Apr - Sun 9th Jun, 6pm
Secret location
www.secretcinema.org

THE GOAT RACE...


Back with a vengeance is this years Goat Race at Spitalfields City Farm this Sunday 29th March, proving a monumental hit as always tickets online have SOLD OUT, but there are still some tickets available on the door. Who's your money on, Oxford or Cambridge...all profits go towards saving money for the farm, dig deep!

Spitalfields City Farm, Buxton Street, E1
www.thegoatrace.org

Wednesday, 27 March 2013

DEAD MANS HAND...


A Door in a Wall run interactive games, like real life run around get sweaty thinking on your feet problem solving stuff. Similar to the Zombie games we've survived in the past. There next event is called 'Dead Man's Hand', which included up to 50 players and is played 26 times during May. What happens well, we'll let them incite you in...

Jack Spade thought he had been dealt all the right cards, but reckless gambling seems to have cost him his life. All those who sat around the poker table that night have something to hide; can your team work out who was responsible for his murder? The nearby streets hold the clues and characters that can help you, but you'll need all your cunning, and a dash of luck, to solve the mystery of Dead Man's Hand...

Tickets are £25 a pop plus booking fee and games are played Sunday - Wednesday evenings and weekend afternoons starting at The Grand Union in Farringdon. Your team can have between 3 and 6 players one of which will need a smart phone to get clues and important info to help you through the game.

If that sounds like a hoot you want to be part of, well book tickets here and see their website for more info. Watch your back people, remember this ain't no movie this is real life...

Starts Sat 4th May 2013
www.adoorinawall.com