For lifelong lovers of food and drink, there’s never been a greater time to be in London than this fall. Here are four autumn fests that will tickle the taste buds of even the most finicky foodie.
Chocoholics are in for a treat (or, in fact, several treats) for the next few days. This fun food fest honors the work of the city’s finest chocolatiers (Rococo Chocolates) and chocolate companies (Sweet Sensations) — as well as cocoa-loving hotels, restaurants and bars. While all sorts of talks, tastings and teas will fill the schedule, the week’s culmination will take place at London’s Olympia on October 18 through 20 with Salon du Chocolat, a grand event with vendors, workshops and even a chocolate fashion show. Through October 20
This annual celebration of London’s food features more than 800 participating dining establishments all across the capital, which vary from upscale Asian (Hakkasan Hanway Place) to casual tapas (The Cuban). The event is made up of two main parts: the “Festival Menus,” which are individual set menus specially designed by each restaurant, and “Events,” which are one-off food experiences ranging from gourmet Sunday lunches to movie-themed dining. Tickets are available on Ticketmaster. Through October 21
Probably the year’s greatest foodie event, the BBC Good Food Show brings Britain’s most beloved TV cooking shows to life, with appearances by everyone from MasterChef: The Professionals participants to The Great British Bake Off contestants. There are also exhibits by a wealth of international restaurants, winemakers, farmers and producers, plus events that range from top chef battles to renowned restaurateur interviews and pop-up eateries. And the whole thing is crammed into just three days. November 15 through 17
Get in the festive spirit early with this sensational seasonal food fest. This year’s event will take place in the historic Tobacco Dock, and will include an impressive line-up of signature dishes from many of the city’s finest restaurants (Beard To Tail, Salt Yard) for the tasting. Additionally, there will be a boutique Christmas food market, a slew of culinary entertainment and the chance to buy foodie gifts for the entire family. And, should he pull himself away from the sampling tables, Santa just might make an appearance, too. November 21 through 24
Photos Courtesy of Taste of Christmas, Chocolate Week, Gymkhana and El Pirata
