Eat & Drink
Chain Gang 2
UJ followers will remember the feature we wrote on our favourite restaurants expanding into nigh-on chain-size territory; but how many outlets does a corporate sell-out make? Whatever the answer, we can’t hate on the latest crop of expansions, as some of our favourite eateries make themselves even more available to us with their new sites. See who’s marking the map and moving their menus in the latest instalment of Chain Gang.
Piece of Cake
Some say it’s better than sex. So it’s apt that London’s latest bakery is appearing in a derelict Soho sex shop, courtesy of fashion favourite Patrick Cox and Cake Boy’s Eric Lanlard. Oh crumbs...
Sibling Rivalry
Little sisters steal your make-up. Younger brothers reveal your porn stash. But we’re coming around to the idea of younger siblings - especially when they’re as charming as the latest slew of restaurant sister-sites popping up around Londontown, including Polpo’s newest baby, Polpetto.
Eco-enthused
Here at UJ we have a somewhat turbulent relationship with the term ‘eco’. It’s not like we didn’t cry during Wall-E. We just haven’t been terribly inspired by environmentally-friendly efforts either. But we’re feeling repentant. Maybe it’s the introduction of Boris’ blue bikes. Or maybe it’s the totally feel-good vibe at New York import Otarian, a new vegetarian restaurant in Soho. ‘Cos we’re feeling eco-enthused.
UJ’s Top Hampers
Despite our parks’ infuriating rule against the use of disposable barbeques, there’s still nothing we like more than a little al fresco action on the green. But without a grill to singe the grass with (OK, OK, we get it...) what does a perfect picnic make? UJ’s picked out the best hampers and pre-packed baskets for every budget.
The Only Way Is Out, Ba-by
London has it’s fair share of outdoor spots. And for sure nothing breaks the daily grind quite like a leisurely lunch in the wild with friends (preferably attractive ones: you’re on show here, remember). But fancy an al fresco nibble and all too often you find yourself with yet another slither of a Pret or a disappointingly greasy local Chinese. And just try getting a table out in the fresh, balmy air without at least 24 hours notice… Oh how those waiters laugh.