The A-List: What To Do In London This Week

// FOOD //

INO, Soho

When INO opened its doors last summer, it was still somewhat overshadowed by its big sister OPSO—but the Summer of ’22 has been a very different story. A new menu, outdoor seating and some sexy cocktail additions (cucumber sours) mean this cosy little nook of a restaurant now regularly has a queue of 45 people outside. Not only are the dishes bursting with original Greek flavours, which are all cooked on an impressive rustic grill (this can be seen on the recommended counter seating), the quality of the ingredients shines through in every single one of them. And as well as going back for more of that taramasalata, for which the restaurant has become duly famous, it’s always good to see what’s new. Try the octopus taco with smoked tomato, onion crisps and olive oil flatbread, and the spanakopita (spinach pie finished on charcoal with Greek yoghurt). And you can enjoy the showstoppers while sipping your way through an extremely impressive wine list. V.F. had a bottle of the Gerovassiliou—difficult to nail the pronunciation, easy to polish off the whole thing. Bravo INO. INO, Soho

// FESTIVAL //

Daylesford Harvest Festival, Cotswolds

Daylesford near Kingham in the Cotswolds feels like an upscale country idyll on any day of the year, but it reaches peak pastoral delight during its annual Harvest Festival. This year’s (taking place on September 17–18) will celebrate the landmark 20th anniversary of everyone’s favourite organic store with a scene of autumnal abundance. There will be everything from hot air balloons and classic fairground rides to dog shows and the Daylesford Harvest Competition (categories include best carrot cake and best fruit jam, and entries will be accepted until 11am each day). But more to the point, guests can feast on food from the Daylesford Fire Pits, linger on long banquet tables, watch cookery demonstrations from guest chefs, and wash it all down at the Harvest Festival Bar, which will be stocked with Daylesford’s own festival cider, craft beers and organic wines from Chateau Léoube. Those looking for some time to unwind can head over to the Bamford Wellness Spa and Heritage Orchard for holistic activities, relaxing workshops and wellbeing talks. All in all, a glorious day out awaits. Daylesford Harvest Festival

// BEAUTY //

Hari’s Northcote Road

It’s hard to resist Hari’s, the string of cult hair salons and purveyor of perfect blow-dries. But up until now it’s been a very west London affair, with spots in Chelsea, Notting Hill and Parson’s Green. So those residing south of the river will be very pleased to hear that a new salon has opened on the Northcote Road. It’s got the same vibrant character as the others, with interiors curated by Hari in collaboration with Kim Partridge Interiors, previous designer of Adare Manor. It’s flooded with natural sunlight, with a fresh air system powered by a state-of-the-art environmentally friendly heat pump plus a moss wall to breathe life into the salon (ideal if you’re spending foiled hours in here). The star-lit, fully reclining backwash area is hard to leave, especially if you’ve plundered the complimentary 111Skin face masks on offer here. Book now—it’s filling up fast. Hari’s Northcote Road

// DRINKS //

The Omakase Bar at The Aubrey

Globally recognised Italian bartender, consultant and drink designer (a title we aspire to) Pietro Rizzo has recently conjured up a pretty state-of-the-art experience at The Aubrey: Cocktail Omakase. Set deep within the private dining area with only eight counter seats, it’s an immersive and interactive experience that takes you on a journey through the expansive world of Japanese spirits. Guests can sip on umeshu, shochu, and sake with Asian herbs—but the best cocktail of the night? The Tomatini. Tomato liqueur is well worth your consideration, especially when shaken up by Pietro himself. And, of course, be sure to soak up some of the glorious concoctions with amuse bouche-style dishes. The mushrooms on brioche toast and slices of raw hamachi are heaven, and the perfect accompaniment to help avoiding a hangover the next morning. Bottoms up! The Omakase Bar at The Aubrey

// LIQUID SOLUTION //

Ingredients

40ml Toki
110ml Soda
5ml Japanese apple vinegar
Grapefruit twist

Method

1. Add cubed ice to a highball glass and stir to chill glass
2. Add Toki and vinegar to the glass and stir to chill
3. Top with soda
4. Garnish with grapefruit twist

https://www.vanityfair.com/london/2022/09/the-a-list-what-to-do-in-london-this-week-ino

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