19 uplifting things to do in London in April 2024

Tucked away on an unassuming street in Covent Garden, you'll find Louie, an impossibly glamorous French restaurant with a chic brasserie-style interior, a divinely indulgent menu and a secret jazz bar on its fourth floor. 

Inspired by the soulful jazz bars of New Orleans, this late-night dining spot infuses Parisian sophistication with the heady glamour of the Louisiana jazz scene. For foodies, like me, Louie's colourful menu is a delight for the senses. Expect elegant sharing plates, exceptional raw seafood, black truffle pappardelle, a melt-in-the-mouth New York strip steak doused in bernaise sauce and buttery lobster rolls from the best of the menu. 

When I dined on a quiet Thursday evening, the buzzy dining room was full by 8pm, soon transformed into a jovial live music venue as a four-man jazz band lit up the restaurant with a playful rendition of Oh When The Saints.  

Upstairs in The Alligator Bar, the atmosphere was even more electric as guests sipped on classic cocktails and malt whiskey to the sound of Georgia Cecile's spectacular voice. For me, it was a quick twirl on the dancefloor and a spicy margarita for the road. Joie de vivre!

Reviewed by Georgia Brown, Senior Lifestyle & Fashion Writer

After a very chaotic day, I raced to my dinner at the Theo Randall restaurant at the Intercontinental in Mayfair, arriving feeling rather overwhelmed and underdressed.

After jokily apologising for my appearance to the lovely restaurant manager who greeted me, she reassured me that while outside might be busy London, inside the Theo Randall is all about feeling like you're in laid-back Italy - and with a luxurious yet very friendly atmosphere, I quickly relaxed for a much-needed evening of fabulous food and excellent service. 

The menu was beautifully thought out with exquisite choices, and the staff - particularly our lovely waiter Peter - couldn't have been more thoughtful in making our dining experience one to remember. 

Peter gave my friend, a vegetarian, a journey through the menu of his favourite veggie options - and she opted happily with spinach and ricotta Gnudi, while I went for the moreish taglierini gamberetti e carciofi - and we both inhaled the yellowfin tuna tartare as a tasty starter. We also enjoyed perhaps the most incredible bruschetta I've ever had - it comes with every meal, so make sure you give it a try! 

Not only was our food delicious, but it was also perfectly timed, with Peter accurately spotting that my friend and I were enjoying long chats in between courses and holding back to let us enjoy the wine and the company - making a welcome change from some restaurants in London where you feel like you're a conveyor belt headed for the door after your 90-minute slot. 

An extra touch of the evening was the offer to head into the kitchen and say hello to the head chef Theo Randall himself, who has run the kitchen since 2006 and gave us an insight into his work - if you are a foodie - it is an absolute must-visit. Buon appetite! 

Reviewed by Emmy Griffiths, TV and Film Editor 

Bunga Bunga is more than just a brunch place, it's an experience. From the moment you walk down the Italiano stairs and are greeted by glittery performers, to the moment the show starts up as you tuck into unlimited pizzas and prosecco, you are in for a treat. 

The vibey restaurant is all about getting its guests into the party mode, so it's little surprise that the room is packed with birthday celebrations and hen parties. Me? I was part of the latter, and let me tell you, nothing says 'one last party before matrimony' like their Buff Boy Band Brunch.

With hits from N*Sync, Backstreet Boys and One Direction, the atmosphere quickly becomes elated as the crowds drank and sang - with the performers doing a brilliant job to not only entertain but spend time fussing over the diners, so by the end of the experience, it's almost like you know everyone in the room. 

Sometimes I find big brunching experiences can be overpriced for what they are. At £58pp, it is certainly a little punchy - but the unlimited pizza, which ranges from Mamma Ham-ia with Cotto ham to Leonardo da Veggie with black olives, courgettes, mozzarella, tomato sauce really are delicious. For a hen party destination, it is seriously worth it. 

Suppose you fancy seriously committing to the hen vibes. In that case, I have been reliably informed that there is a new Hen Do package which is £58 a head and comes with a bottle of Pink Prosecco, a bridal trucker’s cap, a large celebratory muffin and a bridal bouquet. I didn't realise it was available at the time, but I guess that's just a really great excuse for me to go back there again soon! 

Reviewed by Emmy Griffiths, Digital TV and Film Editor 

The moment you step through the doors of UMU Mayfair (if you can find the door – the James Bond movie-style mysterious entrance is the first excitement of a date at this Michelin-starred restaurant), you can tell it’s something special. 

Elegant and understated, the dining room oozes Japanese serenity , and although the kitchen is open, right in the centre of the room, there are no Ramsay-style histrionics going on here – just intense, silent concentration as attention to detail is painstakingly taken over every morsel making its way onto a plate.

It's all beautiful. From the sake cocktails with flowers floating in them (the dirty sake martini gets my thumbs up) to the sashimi platters laid out like a work of art. And the food is sensational. I’m a big fan of Japanese food, but I’d never tasted anything quite as delicious as the Cornish langoustine and halibut sashimi, not the mention the Spanish tuna, both back and belly, so delicious and so different.

I actually didn’t think the fish could be beaten, but the wagyu beef, cooked over charcoal and graded 11 (from a maximum of 12) for tenderness, was like nothing I’d ever tasted before. We all know steak that melts in the mouth, but it turns out it doesn’t really. Not when you’ve eaten chef Ryo Kamatsu’s waygu steak, still on the flame so the accompanying sauce caramelises as it continues to cook.

The restaurant has been running for 20 years now – March 2024 marked its birthday and the release of the new menu. Its traditional Kyoto cuisine has given it a reputation as one of the finest Japanese restaurants in London, and now I’m clear as to why.

Reviewed by Sophie Vokes-Dudgeon, Chief Content Officer

Angel's vibrant Upper Street has a new culinary addition in the form of Al Dente, the Italian restaurant chain's fourth and newest outpost in the capital. The restaurant promises to serve up the freshest handmade pasta hailed from traditional Roman recipes, injecting a slice of 'La Dolce Vita' into London's food scene. 

The menu is simple but indulgent. My favourite was Ravioli Zucca e Pecorino Pumpkin, made with pecorino cheese, nutmeg, amaretto biscuit in a butter and sage sauce, while the rich Carbonara was equally delicious, laden with sharp thrusts of umami from the guicanle and Pecorino Romano.

A hearty bowl of pasta here will set you back less than £12 in most cases - a steal in comparison to the pricey Italian restaurants and well-known chains serving up similar dishes made with far less gusto. Don't miss this charming spot the next time you're meandering through Islington.

If you dine at Al Dente in Angel before 22 April, you will even get 20% off your meal! 

Reviewed by Georgia Brown, Senior Lifestyle & Fashion Writer

If you are on the lookout for a cool brunch in London, keep reading! I tried out STK Steakhouse Strand's newest 'Vibe Brunch' and it was so fun! Every Saturday from 11:30am to 3pm, you can enjoy the ultimate brunch experience with a DJ on the decks and the afternoon turns into a lively and unforgettable event with amazing music, great service and delicious food.

It's reasonably priced, too! For just £49 per person, guests can enjoy a three-course menu that includes sharing starters, such as delectable Sushi and Lil’Burgers, a choice of main course, including the iconic STK California Cut Steak and a Roasted Salmon, full of flavour, and finally a show-stopping sharing party board for dessert. I would highly recommend upgrading to one of the bottomless beverage packages, starting from an additional £28 per person.

The Vibe Brunch is on at STK Steakhouse Strand and STK Rooftop Steakhouse & Bar in Stratford.

Reviewed by Leanne Bayley, Director of Lifestyle & Commerce

This modern Italian seafood restaurant and aperitivo bar, located in Notting Hill’s Kensington Park Road, is the perfect date spot for West Londoners.
It’s owned by brothers Peppe and Angelo Corsaro, who are also the brains behind Stanley Tucci favourite La Mia Mamma, and if you love seafood and fish, you’ll be in heaven.
I stopped by Fish & Bubbles on Wednesday evening and was delighted to see so much atmosphere in the restaurant, which is intimate and cosy.
We enjoyed their tuna tartare, a giant fritto misto sharing board which includes calamari, chips and much more and two gourmet seafood paninis. I must admit, the sharing board truly is giant, and you really don’t need to order much more than that – in hindsight, we got a bit excited but I don’t have any regrets!
Even though we were incredibly full, we managed to make some space for dessert – which much like their main plates, didn’t disappoint – we’ll definitely be returning.

Reviewed by Andrea Caamano, Website Editor

You are always guaranteed to have a fun night at SUSHISAMBA - from the stomach-dropping elevator to the 38th floor, to the gorgeous views, glittering orange tree in the sky-high courtyard and - of course - the incredible food. 

So when I heard that there was a brand new part of the restaurant opening, I had to go and check it out. While the restaurant has nailed incredible sushi, they're now out to conquer the cocktail crowds too, with a brand new bar area. 

As you can see from the photo, the gorgeous room is lush with golden velvet bar stools and cosy sofas around the tables. We settled in at the bar for a fabulous view of London - but if are you lucky, you could see if the private table is free - it's a little set aside from the bar to enjoy an up-close view of the Gherkin - a special addition to any date night or birthday drinks. 

While my friend and I enjoyed a glass of the Reisling at the bar after our spectacular dinner of black cod anticuchos, yellowtail taquitos and and salmon nigiri, but the cocktails looked seriously nice. Next time I'll be opting for the Amazonia for a twist on a Pisco Sour - looking forward to it!

Reviewed by Emmy Griffiths, TV and Film Editor

It's no wonder Pizarro in foodie hotspot Bermondsey is always packed to the rafters. The brainchild of talented chef José Pizarro, who is often hailed the godfather of Spanish cuisine in the UK, José's eponymous restaurant has a brilliantly buzzy atmosphere and serves deliciously authentic Spanish food. All of the staff appeared to be Spanish or Spanish-speaking, which I took as a great sign as I was shown to my table.

The menu is designed for sharing, and there's no doubt about it, you have to start with some of the pica pica, which are essentially nibbles to whet your appetite. Our waiter recommended two signature plates which were the perfect way to start our meal: creamy jamon croquetas and salty padron peppers. Next up was the bean stew with Iberico pork and cockles. It may not sound that exciting, but it's a Spanish dish that's a classic for a reason. 

For mains, there's the option to share some of the larger plates or to order individually. We opted for the suckling lamb leg for two, which came complete with baked potato gratin and confit onions. It could have easily fed three people though; it was an extremely generous portion of succulent and flavorsome lamb. If you have room for dessert, I highly recommend the salted caramel and chocolate tart, which is pure heaven for the chocoholics amongst us.

With its open kitchen, authentic cuisine, friendly staff, and lively surroundings, Pizarro offers a ten out of ten Spanish dining experience. It's no surprise there are other branches dotted around the city and abroad. And if you want a more casual experience, you can always head further down Bermondsey Street to the José tapas bar, which was the chef's original outpost in London that is more of a wine bar that serves tapas. It doesn't take bookings, so just turn up.

Reviewed by Ainhoa Barcelona, Content Managing Editor 

This season, Marugame Udon is inviting noodle lovers across the London to embrace the Japanese tradition of 'Hanami' and join them for a joyous feast of fresh noodles under the new pink blooms. 

Experience Hanami the Marugame way by dropping by to enjoy your udon whilst admiring the restaurant's co-created pink cherry blossom tree. Pick up your origami petal at the till, write your wish for the new season, fold your petal and add it to the tree and watch it blossom.

Marugame Udon is the perfect pit stop for a flying visit, thanks to their canteen-style dining that makes ordering go at lightning speed. When I dined, I devoured a hearty bowl of Chicken Katsu Curry (from £8.45) while my friend enjoyed Beef Nikutama (from £9.95), udon noodles with beef and caramelised onions in a sweet and smokey sauce. Don't miss the delicious Shima Yuzu & Elderflower Saké Spritz.

Reviewed by Georgia Brown, Senior Lifestyle & Fashion Writer

Soho's subterranean speakeasy Sotto needs to be on your radar for a post-dinner cocktail. Hidden away below popular Italian restaurant Bocconcino, a dimly-lit, intimate bar awaits, open late on Friday and Saturday evenings. I recently popped along to the launch of their new collaboration with award-winning bartender, Rich Woods, for a sneak preview of their Modern Italian Classics menu. The champion cocktail maker kept the drinks coming all night while guests gossiped, perched on velvet booths lining the room, and a resident DJ spun away at the decks.

I sampled four offerings from the nine-drink limited edition menu and was impressed by the slick presentation and smooth flavours. My favourite was the Sgroppino, which is essentially a boozy slushie. Lemon verbena liqueur, lemon sorbet, mint, and prosecco combine to create a melt-in-your-mouth delight, with each sip culminating in the sorbet pleasantly fizzing away to nothing on your tongue. The Hazelnut Milk Punch was an unusual and moreish creation, the Blackcurrant Negroni packed a serious punch (and I hold it personally responsible for my hangover), while the most popular showstopper in the room was the Sunset Cosmo, a raspberry and guava infused creation that ended up on more than one Instagram Story.

Grab your table at bocconcinorestaurant.co.uk/news/sotto-bar/

Reviewed by Kate Thomas, Lifestyle Managing Editor

Fancy a taste of Spain while in London? The Somerset House Terrace Bar with San Miguel has returned to its resident home on stunning River Terrace this month for a season of unmissable experiences. 

Featuring delicious new twists curated by Spanish-English chef  extraordinaire Jimmy Garcia, the Somerset House Terrace Bar with San Miguel will be London’s favourite destination to seek out and the perfect Spanish-inspired haven to enjoy a chilled San Miguel Especial, San Miguel 0,0 or San Miguel Radler.

From ice cold beers to San Miguel cocktails, relaxed seating areas and an iconic spot on the River Terrace, the Somerset House Terrace Bar is set to be London’s favourite al fresco destination for sundowners this spring.

This month, thousands of runners will be gearing up for the most popular marathon in the world - but the TCS London Marathon is nothing without its spectators. Join the crowds to support the elites, first-time runners and fancy dressed athletes taking on the 26.2 mile route across London's most iconic landmarks on 21 April. Who knows? You may just become inspired to sign up yourself next year… 

Don't miss the London Landmarks Half Marathon on 7 April, the only half marathon to go through both the City of London and City of Westminster.

With half of April dedicated to the Easter holidays, those with school-aged children will be glad that the options for fun activities are endless in this city. But one trip that should be top of any list is a visit to The Art of the Brick: An Exhibition of LEGO® Art. 

It’s perfect for LEGO enthusiasts and also children who like to discover new things. Here they will discover universally known art in LEGO form - think Michaelangelo’s David or Van Gogh’s Starry Night…

My two boys, neither of whom actively play with LEGO every day, were incredibly excited from start to finish, rushing from one creation to another - showing that you don’t have to be so into LEGO to enjoy this great experience.

A bonus for sure was the two play areas where children could either build their own creations or enjoy some time drawing and then bringing them to life. Overall, a great family day out for adults and children alike.

For tickets visit: theartofthebrickexpo.com/

Reviewed by Andrea Caamano, Website Editor

Calling all marathon runners! You're going to need some serious TLC after putting your body through 26.2 miles, and Pan Pacific London has a post-race recovery package you'll definitley want to indulge in. 

SENSORY, the hotel’s state-of-the-art wellbeing floor is designed to tackle muscle strain and mental exhaustion as well as optimise healing. Begin with a 30-minute leg recovery session to soothe tired muscles after a gruelling 26.2 miles of running, followed by a 30-minute express massage. The relaxation continues with full access to the sauna and steam room before soaking away any remaining fatigue with a dip in the 18.5m infinity pool. 

The Post-Marathon Treatment package is avaialble to book throughout April in tandem with the London Marathon. Prices start at £150.