Top 5 things to do during the London Restaurant Festival
Tuesday, 20 September 2011 11:26 AM
Consider yourself something of a foodie? Whether you're passionate about British cuisine, can't get enough of Indian dishes or are taken with Spanish tapas, you'll find something to delight your taste buds at the London Restaurant Festival (LRF).
Running from October 3rd to 17th, the LRF is a huge celebration of the fantastic fare available in the capital – and of eating out itself.
Rather than taking place in a single venue, the festival comprises events across the city, while participating restaurants offer special menus designed to showcase their best work.
Indeed, it is predominantly these two elements – Festival Menus and Festival Events – that make up the LRF. But, you'll also find there are 'Side Orders', or fringe events organised by individual restaurants, to enjoy too.
If you're itching to get a slice of the action, search through the various high-quality hotels in London and reserve a comfortable room to make the most of this exciting two-week affair.
There are plenty of great 4 star London hotels to choose from, which could be perfect if you're keen to experience some of the capital's luxurious accommodation.
The Thistle Marble Arch is just one of your many options, and offers excellent rooms in a central location.
Once you've settled on a hotel, you should start planning which events you'd like to attend. But, which are the top five to check out?
The LRF is all about celebrating dining out – and what better way to do so than by eating in different restaurant for each course? The Gourmet Odyssey offers this quirky gastronomic tour, taking you to some of London's top restaurants for an unforgettable meal out.
You can choose between a walking and a bus tour, but whichever you select you will be treated to a champagne reception before heading off on your voyage of culinary adventure.
If you're searching for the ultimate LFR event, you might want to take a look at Pop-up in the Sky. Taking place on the London Eye, diners – which number ten per capsule – will be served dishes prepared by some of London's most renowned chefs. Richard Corrigan and James Atherton are among those confirmed to be taking part.
However, at £12,500 to £15,000 a head, this dining experience is certainly not for everyone!
Providing a wholly different but equally wonderful experience, the Tapas Tour is another great event to choose. As its name suggests, this evening out will take you on a tour of the city's best tapas restaurants, while also allowing you to try some excellent Riojas as you dine.
If you're something of a movie buff, why not attend Eat Film? Another example of LRF's unique events, it is hosted by various five-star hotels, including the Covent Garden Hotel and the Charlotte Street Hotel.
Before the film screening, your guest host will explain the choice of movie. Following the picture, there will be a champagne reception during which he or she will host a question and answer session, before a delicious three-course meal is served.
Alternatively, if you're eager to taste some signature dishes from Michelin-starred chefs, you might be interested in booking a place at the Fortnum & Mason Culinary Carnival. This event has a focus on local produce, with participating chefs including Sue and Roger Jones, Nigel Haworth and Philip Britten.
Dinner will comprise three courses, as well as an amuse bouche and cheese course, while lunch will be a two-course affair.
Whichever event catches your interest, the LRF is a festival not to be missed by any keen foodies.