So it turns out men have a bigger fear of ‘outfit repeating’ than women
Just when you thought the insatiable appetite for a good Instagram snap couldn't get any worse, it turns out that there is a rise in the number of people buying outfits to take a picture for their Instagram feed only to return the item to the store the next day.
In fact, almost one in ten shoppers (9%) have admitted that they do so.
Surprised? Just you wait.
In a study by Barclaycard of over 2,000 adults, it turns out that the 35-44 age bracket are the biggest offenders with nearly one in five (17%) revealing that they've bought clothes to wear just once purely for the hashtag moment before returning.
Something that may surprise you even more, is that it is in fact men who are more afraid of outfit repeating, with 10% admitting that they'd be embarrassed if a friend saw them in the same outfit twice, compared to 7% of women.
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Compared to just 11% of women, 15% of men admit to keeping their tags on their clothes while wearing them so that they have the option to return them.
And while they may not be keeping their purchases, men in fact spent more money than women on new clothes - splurging an average of £114 a month totalling £300 more a year per person than their female counterparts.
And yet we're the ones with the clichéd 'shopaholic' reputations? Puh-lease.
So now you've got your (borrowed) outfits sorted, boys, scroll down to see the most Instagrammable places to wear them...
Nobu Hotel London Portman Square
Nobu Hotel London Portman Square
We're always seeking the next 'it spot' to pop on our 'gram before everyone else - and we've just found it. Nobu has just opened the doors to its latest hotel (the 13th from the portfolio) in the heart of London and you'll see everyone there on your Insta feed this summer. Nobu Hotel London Portman Square is smack bang on the corner of Marylebone’s Portman Square (you'll spot the Instagrammable entrance and prime real estate outdoor terrace) and has 249 bedrooms, the iconic Nobu Restaurant & Bar and an impressive Pilates studio. It's not just great for your grid, it offers great food, cocktails and spa treatments right in the centre of the city. Award-winning David Collins Studio is responsible for the hotel’s public spaces, including the lobby, The Lounge, Nobu Bar and Restaurant, outdoor terrace, ballroom and boardrooms so you can thank him when you rack up the likes - think hand-blown glass chandeliers and bespoke lighting to large scale sculpture and original artworks. If you're lucky enough to stay over, the rooms have been designed by Make Architects and feature epic prints, bespoke lighting and an abundance of natural light and materials to create that zen vibe we've come to expect from Nobu.
The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel
The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel, Chelsea
Belmond Hotels are honestly the best in the world and if you've been fortunate to stay at one, you'll be in the know. That's exactly why The Cadogan, the group's offering located between Chelsea and Knightsbridge, is a must-stay if you want some 'grammable snaps. With 54 impeccably designed rooms (two-thirds of which are suites by the way), cosy interiors such as fireplaces, stained-glass windows, gold-leaf wall sconces and incredible art, it's the perfect backdrop for some snaps. You may be in the centre of town but the hotel also benefits from its fantastic position overlooking the private Cadogan Palace Gardens, which guests have exclusive access to.
History buffs will fall in love with the place. It dates back to 1887 and is made up of restored Queen Anne-style buildings once home to the super chic socialite Lillie Langry (her original floorings have been restored and make for perfect 'from where I stand' Insta pics). The charming property was also a firm favourite hangout of Oscar Wilde so expect to see nods to the poet and playwright at every turn (look out for the crystal-embellished ostrich named after him). Oscar's room of choice —room 118— where he was arrested with a bottle of something alcoholic in hand (!) is now the hotel’s Royal Suite, complete stunning views, an epic corner bath and personal butler service.
The food is also fantastic so you won't need to leave. Kick off proceedings with a cocktail (the bartenders will surprise you with something deliciously strong) before dinner, which is under the culinary direction of celebrated chef, Adam Handling. Fans of Adam will know he's all about the seasonal, sustainably sourced ingredients and giving his own take on British classics. The homemade bread and cheese doughnuts with sinfully salty butter are next-level, beef tartare with crispy shallot and oyster makes the perfect starter and the steaks served with onion rings are out of this world.
When you're ready to retire to your room, drifting off to a blissful night's sleep won't be a problem because the hotel has launched The Sleep Concierge - a brand-new service in partnership with esteemed Harley Street Hypnotherapist and Sleep Expert, Malminder Gill. You get a pillow menu with a choice of luxurious pillows and a weighted blanket, a bedtime tea developed by The Cadogan that's perfect for sipping in the bath, a dreamy scented pillow mist and a sleep-inducing meditative recording by Malminder.
Sweet dreams.
The Mayfair Townhouse
From the people who brought you the renowned Cliveden House and Chewton Glen (if you know, you know), comes The Mayfair Townhouse - a new high-end neighbourhood hotel overlooking London’s Green Park. The decor is perfect 'gram fodder; think Oscar Wilde meets Alice in Wonderland - and trust us, you're going to see everyone drinking and sleeping here now we are out of lockdown. Set in Half Moon Street, which was a colourful haunt for bachelors, bohemians and artistic types in Victorian London, including as iconic fictional characters like Oscar Wilde’s Algernon Moncreiff and Bertie Wooster in P. G. Wodehouse’s comedies, The Mayfair Townhouse makes plenty of nods to this rich artistic history. The Dandy Bar (pictured) is the heart and soul of the Townhouse and serves up aesthetically pleasing (and tasting) avant-garde takes on the classic cocktails. If you've hit the cocktails hard and fancy a sleepover (because what's better than a London staycation?), the rooms are second-to-none. Expect to find the highest quality linens and robes, superb bathrooms, luxury mattresses, his-or-her toiletries, good lighting and intelligent use of space. Little touches reflecting the hotel’s quick-witted personality include minibar contents from local artisans, flamboyant spare socks, takeaway mints and in-room cocktail kits using the dandy’s ingredient of absinthe. Get there and get it on your 'gram before everyone else does.
Berners Tavern
If you ever want to impress a date / family member / your Instagram followers, Berners Tavern at The London Edition hotel should be your first port-of-call. The dramatically plush setting (those chandeliers make perfect 'gram fodder) sets the tone for an epic evening / brunch or Sunday roast. It's the unique things - like the Bloody Mary trolly - that make a trip to Berners one to remember. You can choose from three Bloody Mary varieties (we recommend the Mexican with extra celery salt) and watch as your waitress whips it up at your table then sink back into the velvet sofa, people watch and sip your hangover away. Epic setting aside, the menu - a collection of British classics, seasonal produce and the kind of comfort food you crave on a hungover Sunday - is one of the best in London. Since re-opening (hallelujah!), there's been a few (most welcome) changes; the Lobby Bar will launch a ‘secret’ Punch Room menu, while Berners Tavern has added a bloody delicious Lobster mac and cheese to its menu, as well as a Steak, chips and wine happy hour. Yes, please.
Plum + Spilt Milk
Plum + Spilt Milk, a striking Central London restaurant at the heart of King's Cross, deserves a spot on your gram, especially if you're all about the #interiorinspo. It's the perfect place for a brunch and right now, it's offering a new series of seasonal menus using the very finest in British ingredients, offering a new set menu (2 and 3 courses) and an extensive brunch menu. Think Autumnal flavours such as broad bean hummus, pan fried potato gnocchi with courgette and basil puree, Chermoula baked aubergine with quinoa, pickled butternut squash, roasted red peppers and a tahini dressing. We're salivating.
The Marylebone Hotel
If you're as hooked on Netflix's Emily in Paris as we are, you need to pay a visit to The Marylebone Hotel. Despite being in the heart of London with an unrivalled location to the city's shopping hub, this has such a Parisian vibe about it. From the plush interiors and impeccable service to the chic brasserie with outdoor seating in the cobbled streets of buzzy central London perfect for tier 2, this hotel has that je ne sais quoi we constantly look for in a hotel. If you're looking for a city break or staycation (because we don't need to tell you that you deserve it after this year!), the beautifully refurbished suites and rooms - including a ‘Long Stay Suites’ programme and new ‘Loft Apartment’ with these unreal cityscape views - are ideal for that liveable luxury you're after. Guests will also benefit from access to the in-house Third Space Gym and pool, flexible work spaces and private dining at The Marylebone Rooms and a delicious new food menu at 108 Brasserie & Bar. Of course, this haunt is perfect 'gram fodder. If the view above isn't enough to tempt you, you'll find yourself pulling out your phone at every turn. The hotel’s chic lobby and cocktail bar with its plush furnishings, gold accents and inviting nooks and crannies is worthy of a spot on your grid.
STK London
If you're looking for a haunt that combines delectable food with an incredible atmosphere and glamorous crowd, STK is the one. Yes, yes, we know it's a steak restaurant but that doesn't mean you can't stick to your new year's health resolutions. Thankfully for those trying out a vegetarian diet, or those cutting down the calories, STK has you covered with its brand-new menu and selection of low-calorie cocktails added specially for this month. Opt for the roasted cauliflower starter in celeriac cream with sweet red endive, truffle & toasted hazelnuts, £14, to kick off proceedings, or the classic chopped salad (which is the best we've tried this side of LA) followed by the succulent roasted lemon sole ballotines with coco beans, chorizo, rocket leaves and caper popcorns for £28 - possibly the most flavoursome fish dish we've sampled. For anyone not doing veganuary (guilty), it'd be rude not to sample the restaurant's iconic steak menu. Alongside the plethora of meaty delights on offer, the new menu serves up 11 steaks including two new additions: a 750g Chateaubriand cut priced at £135 - perfect for date night sharing - and a 900g Black Angus Tomahawk for £85. Wash your dish down with a light cocktail like the £12 Healthy Cup Martini with Gin Mare olives, basil, rosemary, lime and apple juice (available all month), or work your way through the extensive wine list. Fear not, you'll burn off the calories dancing at your table with the coolest crowd in town.
The Ivy - Kensington
To celebrate the return of Cirque du Soleil at the Royal Albert Hall, The Ivy are serving up a tasty trio of limited-edition cocktails and a mouth-watering set menu inspired by the show. The restaurant’s picturesque floral displays and cosy leather-clad booths are the perfect setting to delve into cheesy croquettes and freshly baked seabass (with a serving of truffle fries, obv) in pre-show style! Cameras at the ready, people.
For further information or to book, please visit www.theivykensingtonbrasserie.com.
Radio Rooftop - Strand
If you thought panoramic views of London were enough, think again. This year, Radio Rooftop has transformed itself into a festive extravaganza, decorated with faux fur throws, twinkling lanterns that adorn the walls. The alpine oasis makes you feel as if you're in your very own Christmas wonderland. For an extra magical experience, try Radio Rooftop's winter inspired cocktail menu, in partnership with Grey Goose vodka. A favourite on the menu is the 'Apres Ski Martini', with fig and rosemary vermouth and Manchego, to really make you feel as if you're in the mountains.
The W - Leicester Square
The W has collaborated with Jack Irving to create the most spectacular Christmas installation yet. Placed in the 1st floor lobby of the hotel, the iridescent blow up tree is as "insta-worthy" as they come. Hanging disco balls light up the space to create a visual extravaganza. Head to the W for your best Christmas snap to date.
The Hoxton - Southwark
We're constantly looking for cool new haunts in London that not everyone else has discovered yet (sorry, Circolo Popolare), so we're thrilled to learn The Hoxton, Southwark, has opened doors as the eighth hotel in the series. Boasting 192 super chic rooms with beds so sinkable and showers so luxe you'll never want to vacate, it's the perfect venue for a city staycation or for those visiting London. The hotel also boasts two fantastic restaurants; Albie, a delicious Mediterranean-inspired ground floor dining spot with warming homemade soups and pastas; and Seabird, an incredibly aesthetically-pleasing rooftop restaurant with such jaw-dropping panoramic views of the city, you'll feel like you're in New York. You'll find us kicking back at The Hoxton, Southwark, for the foreseeable. See you there?
Tozi - Pimlico
Is there anything more Instagrammable (and indulgent) than a truffle-adorned dish? No, we didn't think so. That's why we've been capturing our most recent content at TOZI Restaurant & Bar, where Head Chef Maurilio Molteni and Senior Restaurant Manager Stefano Meloni, have curated an incredible (and exclusive) white truffle menu with their cicchetti concept. Think creamy and smooth buffalo ricotta ravioli with truffle, succulent seared Angus beef and fried duck egg, occhio di bue. Just when we thought it couldn't get more heavenly, each dish was complemented by a specially selected wine pairing, expertly matched to bring out the delectable taste of the truffles. Whilst the truffle menu isn't around forever, the restaurant itself is well worth a visit; with its open kitchen, fantastic service and second-to-none Italian dishes, this has quickly become our go-to taste of Italy in London.
Not only does it look good but Zizzi is doing good with its new partnership. The Italian restaurant has announced a brand new partnership with the Mental Health Foundation that will see it raise a huge £1 million for the charity which specialises in mental health prevention research and action. Kick-starting an exciting partnership, Zizzi is offering diners the chance to “Donate a Discount” as part of a brand new rewards programme that aims to better reflect the changing tastes of modern diners. The Zizzi’s innovative new rewards programme – which will give customers the choice of 25 per cent off their meal or donating the value to the Mental Health Foundation. What a fantastic idea!
Hush - Mayfair
Hush Mayfair's latest courtyard takeover is the most Instagrammable thing we've seen in a long time. Aside from marvelling at the beautifully Autumnal decor, guests can even dress their own drinks with their pick of tarragon, mint, basil, dill and rosemary, then wrap up in warm blankets and sip their delicious Whitley Neill gin cocktails under the stars. One of the best tipples we've sipped, Ahead of the Med is an infusion of Whitley Neill Blood Orange Gin, Italicus Bergamot, Lemonade, Prosecco, dried grapefruit, lime and rosemary and is the perfect way to wash down a sumptuous truffle brie-topped burger.
Annabels - Mayfair
Annabel's is hands down the most Instagrammable place in the whole of London but only members can get a slice of the action - until now. The Mayfair club, which has earned a global reputation founded on superb service, exclusive ambience, first-class cuisine and unparalleled entertainment, is now available to hire exclusively for private events, even if you're not a member. Whether it's a baby shower or shindig with your pals, we guarantee hiring a space in this exquisite club will take your gram game to the next level. Visit the website for more information.
The Skinny Kitchen - Islington
The Skinny Kitchen is a healthy food hangout that has arrived to London from Ibiza. Based in Angel, this spot has a very 'millennial' atmosphere with lush velvet seating and bright neon 'I licked it so its mine' sign you are sure to be snapping photos even before your food arrives. Whether you are looking for a healthy brunch or relaxed dinner the Skinny Kitchen provides something for all; it offers everyday food but with a clean and healthy twist as well as offering a really broad menu for veggies. Some menu highlights include the berry and matcha pancakes, soy protein burger, and caramel chocolate pot is recommended. For true gym bunnies, it provides you with macros for each meal so its your perfect destination to keep you in check!
Zuma - Knightsbridge
Hand’s down the best Japanese restaurant we’ve come across in London, Zuma should be the eatery at the top of everyone’s dining bucket list. Tucked away in the prestigious Knightsbridge, Zuma’s ethereal cherry blossom display deserves a spot on every Instagrammer’s grid. As for the food, the menu serves up a sophisticated twist on the traditional Japanese izakaya style of informal dining. The chefs conjure up the most exquisite dishes in the open kitchen. Kick off proceedings with a fresh and flavoursome selection of sushi and sashimi, followed by succulent soft shell crab served with a helping of punchy wasabi mayo and the most incredibly succulent rib eye steak with wafu sauce and crunchy garlic crisps. Be sure to order the world-famous black cod; trust us, you really must. The cherry blossom flourless chocolate cake
with macadamia and cherry ripple ice cream is also the sweetest ending to a delicious meal in one of London’s finest restaurants.
The Landmark - Marylebone
The Landmark London is one of the city’s most iconic, grand dame hotels and its Winter Garden provides the perfect backdrop for taking some serious Instagram snaps. Nestled in the heart of Marylebone, the hotel features 300 luxurious rooms including 51 spacious suites, embodying quintessential elegant London charm. The Winter Garden is loved for its stunning eight-storey glass atrium, complete with sky high palm trees and serving one of the best afternoon teas in London, as well as delicious and inventive cocktails.
Opening hours at The Winter Garden are 6.30pm – 10.00pm Monday – Friday and Sunday, and 7pm – 10pm on Saturday. www.landmarklondon.co.uk
[b]Ministry of Sound - Royal Festival Hall[/b]
Ministry of Sound have announced the return of their acclaimed orchestral tour The Annual Classical to London’s Royal Festival Hall on October 4th.
The announcement comes on the back of a hugely successful UK tour, which finished last week and sold out shows across the country following the world premiere at the Royal Festival Hall in January. The show will also make its open-air debut at Chelmsford City Racecourse on August 31st.
The Annual Classical finds the world’s most iconic dance brand celebrating and reimagining their legendary dance music compilation The Annual as an expansive orchestral reworking with a 50-piece orchestra, taking on classic tracks from the likes of The Chemical Brothers, Fatboy Slim and Dario G and more. Tickets for The Annual Classical are available from Ministry Of Sound also via SeeTickets, Ticketmaster and Southbank Centre ranging from £30 through to £80.
The Hoxton - Shoreditch
The Hoxton, Shoreditch is a much-loved fixture of the East London scene. The Hoxton is a series of open house hotels inspired by the diversity and originality of the streets and scenes that surround them. Ever since the brand opened their first hotel in Shoreditch, they've never just been about offering a bed for the night and instead provide a super Instagrammable place where guests can hangout alongside the locals and submerse themselves in the neighbourhood with vibrant, welcoming public spaces. Cameras at the ready! Room rates: From £99/night for Shoebox; £129/night for Cosy; £159/night for Roomy.
The Petersham, Covent Garden
Nestled in the heart of Covent Garden, the perfect escape from the busy-ness of the city, the iconic Petersham Nurseries has opened a haven away from home in this stunning à la carte sister restaurant. With seasonal dishes that celebrate the best of the glorious home-grown produce, you'll find the aesthetic balance of the Italian-inspired plates perfectly in tune with the elegant décor. Expect gorgeous glassware, contemporary art and, of course, flower adornments galore. Whether you're popping in for a pre-theatre menu or a relaxed lunch, there's no doubt you're leaving with upwards of twenty gram-able shots.
alto by San Carlo, Selfridges London
Every year, we count down the days until Selfridges’ rooftop opens its door so we can bask in the glorious British sunshine over an Aperol Spritz. This summer, the iconic shopping venue is welcoming Italian restaurant brand, San Carlo, and we can tell you first-hand, it's going to make your gram pop. Akin to a secret Italian garden high above the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street, this haunt has the most Insta feed-worthy floral installation studded with Italian chinotto fruit, a stunning roof terrace (perfect for Aperol Spritz sipping Boomerangs!), and the kind of food you'll wolf down before you've ever had time to snap it (but please, please, PLEASE ensure you order the dessert platter, capture it for the gram and watch the likes flood in).
No. 197 Chiswick Fire Station - London
When it comes to brunch in London, there's nowhere quite like No. 197 Chiswick Fire Station. Located in - you guessed it, Chiswick - this stylish hangout will take your breath away with its lush interiors and Instagrammable food. Pottered with giant cacti, plush red velvet chairs and hanging gold light fixtures, they've got a snazzy sun-trap terrace hidden outback too, and it's ideal for soaking up vitamin D come summertime.
Sketch - London
Looking for an excuse to book a trip to London? Cue Sketch. Kitted out with bubblegum pink velvet booths and armchairs, this well-dressed venue has got more personality than Gemma Collins herself. You'll find cheeky cartoon illustrations adorn the walls (which have recently been updated by David Shrigley) and they have some of most Instagrammed toilets in the world. Still not sold? They do a killer Champagne afternoon tea with caviar, dainty scones and some of the best macaroons in town.
Tattu - Leeds
We don't say this very often, but Tattu is the kind of place where the interiors are just as pretty as the food. Framed pictures of body art hang on the walls and a striking cherry blossom tree spans the entirety of the restaurant. Jaw-dropping interiors aside, the dishes here are just as, if not more dreamy. Dim sum baskets are works of art coming in all different colours with the mains almost too pretty to eat.
SingEasy at The Piano Works, West End (formerly Studio 88), is London’s first sing-along bar where the audience decide the repertoire and we can confirm you'll have the time of your life. Inspired by two of New York’s legendary sing-along institutions, Ellen’s Stardust Diner and Marie’s Crisis Café, the audience indulge in a delicious dinner served by all-singing-all-dancing waiters and can request whichever song they'd love to hear (and sing along to, of course) from pop classics and chart hits to rock anthems and iconic musical theatre numbers. Snapping your pals singing along and the incredible West End stars crooning and dancing makes for the perfect Instagram content.
Tonight Josephine - London
Appearing on many socialites' Instagram feeds when it first opened, Tonight Josephine remains to be one of the coolest bars in London. Whether you're taking selfies with your friends in their mirrored ceiling, or snaps of the toilets that are plastered in celeb mugshots, you're guaranteed to leave with a whole album of pictures. When you're done posing with their 'well behaved women don't make history' neon sign, climb the stairs up to Bar Elba for more cocktails and glorious rooftop views.
Drama Park Lane - London
Drama Park Lane is one of our new fave party destinations for the #gram. Established by the team behind Cirque Le Soir and nightclub tycoon, Nick House, the nightclub offers an electric atmosphere mixing bass with burlesque. The spaces are filled with neon and bright pink décor which we're all about and there's also loads of wall art and vivid colours throughout.
Searcys at the Gherkin - London
There’s a new cocktail bar called Iris at the very top of the Gherkin with incredible 360 views of London. Head there for a glass of fizz overlooking the entire city, or order from their wacky cocktail menu inspired by the landmarks of London...
Botanica at 100 Queen's Gate Hotel by Hilton's Curio Collection
Think your quintessential British afternoon tea in a setting to rival the celebrity homes of Hollywood. With leafy prints and a super bright atmosphere, you can tuck into pastries, sandwiches and Whittard teas, while being momentarily being transported away from London into a serene atmosphere - all on the ground floor of South Kensington's 100 Queen's Gate hotel. Plus, it'll look amazing on your feed.
Mason's Restaurant and Bar - Manchester
Very few were given the opportunity to wander around the former Freemasons Hall in Manchester, but that's all changed thanks to Mason's Restaurant and Bar. Giving a nod to the building's previous life with subtle art deco features including brass fittings, shiny marble-topped tables and artichoke green, velvet booths, it's now one of the city's prettiest dining destinations. And if you happen to have a thing for martinis - walk this way. You can order your favourite cocktail from a martini trolley that's rolled to your table as you dine.
The Voodoo Rooms - Edinburgh
Scooping up a dozen awards over the years (with a trophy-stacked cabinet acting as proof), The Voodoo Rooms is one of Edinburgh's must-visit restaurants. Dripping in decadence, it's wrapped in gold features with Victorian windows, sky-high ceilings and leather button-backed booths, making it a timeless treasure. Hosting everything from blues bands to saucy cabaret on weekends, you've got more than one reason to visit this grandiose spot.
Issho - Leeds
London might be home to some of the country's best rooftop bars, but Leeds gained a game-changer last year and it's got 'Instagram' written all over it. Contemporary interiors reign supreme in the restaurant, and in a modern day miracle - lighting is your friend thanks to gigantic floor-to-ceiling windows. As for the roof terrace? It's an atmospheric oasis with greenery galore, pillow-packed sofas and it's got its very own Kori Bar, serving 10 different Japanese cocktails.
Bourne and Hollingsworth - London
If Instagram heaven were a place, we're pretty sure it would show up on Google Maps as Bourne and Hollingsworth. Equipped with a cute cafe, a cocktail bar, a charming garden room and a secret party den - you won't find another place like it in London. The greenhouse is where you really wanna be though. Decorated with hanging greenery, potted plants and stuffed with flower-print, squishy armchairs; this green-as-anything spot might just make it as your profile picture.
M by Montcalm
Where London’s trend-setting Tech City meets the galleries, bars and boutiques of Shoreditch, M by Montcalm (@m_by_montcalm) is an energising, vibrant and beautifully designed interpretation of five-star luxury. Brimming with clever detail, it perfectly embodies the area’s entrepreneurial spirit. This 269-room hotel is a one-of-a-kind wonder, its futuristic façade soaring skywards at an improbably sharp angle – a particularly impressive sight from nearby ‘Silicon Roundabout’. The light-filled lobby is a social hub, half buzzing bar and half chilled-out lounge. Sleek, intuitive tech is integral to the guest rooms - high-spec, high-design spaces with smart, contemporary décor. Bathrooms are refreshingly roomy too, with guest controlled underfloor heating and Elemis or Hermès toiletries. Higher rooms have expansive views through the hotel’s distinctive diagonal windows, especially the luxe Sky Club rooms seventeen floors above the City. Back at street level, Plate restaurant and Plate Bar & Bake are alive with the vibe that makes this part of London so exhilarating. Serving earthy, impeccably sourced British ingredients with a dash of French flair thanks to classically trained Chef Patron Arnaud Stevens, it’s also known for its inventive cocktails. And with gold leaf wall tiles, an inviting pool and innovative organic treatments, M Spa is the ultimate urban escape for the style-conscious.To make a reservation, please visit www.mbymontcalm.co.uk
Neighbourhood - Liverpool
Sweeping you away from Liverpool to more exotic climates, Neighbourhood's interiors take inspiration from Miami and New York with daffodil-coloured booths, gold light fixtures and neon signage. Crowned as one of the best places to party in the city, this place has just upped the ante by introducing a bottomless brunch with unlimited cocktails and picture perfect plates.
For more info on the best restaurants in London and across the UK, visit DesignMyNight and follow them on Instagram and Twitter; @DesignMyNight.
Anyone who is anyone in London has dined at COYA. Famed for its bespoke décor (which is totes Instagrammable; just look at that bar), and even more Instagrammable cocktails and Ceviche platters. The contemporary Peruvian cuisine is second-to-none. It's super fresh and delicious and you can even pair your meal with the house Sake, which we are so here for. If you fancy heading further afield, COYA is opening in Monaco this May. Coinciding with the international sporting event, the Monaco Grand Prix, COYA will open on the east side of the city, above Jimmy’z Monte-Carlo and the Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort. We might just have to make a trip.
Prepare for lift off! London in the Sky gives you the ultimate sky-high dining session. For thrill seekers, you’ve hit the jackpot.
Once strapped into your chair, you almost feel as if you’ve just boarded a glamorous 22 seat rollacoaster, as you’re slowly pulled up on a crane until you’re an astonishing 100 ft high. Expect panoramic, 360 degree views of the O2 and London’s skyline. The sky table is rotated regularly to ensure you indulge in every single angle, while your favourite songs blare out. Impossible to take a bad picture from up there, you will probably get your most spectacular Instagram shot of the year – just try not to drop your phone.
On board you will find sommeliers, talking you through flavours and pairing the drinks with an exciting menu from Social Pantry: highlights included marinated aubergine with green chermoula and the vegan brownie. The best part? After dessert, the sky table was briefly lowered back down to the ground to pick up freshly made cocktails for the table, before heading back up again. This cocktail extravaganza included Prahva beer, sherry, cava, and lemon juice.
Dining in the sky promises an unforgettable insta-worthy evening.
Escaping the hustle and bustle of central London to spend the evening on a superyacht doesn't involve a flight to St Tropez anymore thanks to the Sunborn Yacht Hotel. Permanently moored in the Royal Victoria Docks, a night aboard the Sunborn is an experience like no other. The 4-star plush hotel boasts 136 rooms, a swanky entrance lobby perfect for capturing Insta grid-worthy snaps, a luxe spa and delicious restaurant. Even if you can't find the time to sleep over, dining at Lands End is certainly worth a trip aboard. Headed up by Executive Chef, Paul Hegley, the brasserie-style eatery, boasts a menu packed with only the best ingredients to provide signature dishes that draw from the best of British with Asian and Mediterranean influences. You can't go wrong with a perfectly poached Scotch egg and succulent burger washed down with a smooth glass of Malbec. All aboard!
Head to the iconic Sofitel London St James for your best insta shots yet.
Inside St James bar, you’ll find dark green velvet sofas, gold interiors and passport style menus with each concoction paired to a different place around the globe. One to try is the 1st Step (referring to the first steps on the moon). This bourbon and grapefruit mix is served in a silver rocket... the ultimate cocktail experience? We think so.
For dinner, Wild Honey St James is exceptional, with the most instagrammable food you’d find out there. Try the mouthwatering Cacio ‘e’ Pepe, we promise you won't regret it.
For an unforgettable evening, top it off with heading up to one of the rooms. Designed by Pierre-Yves Rochon, each room has a different colour scheme that blends contemporary French elegance and bold British design, showing off superb insta worthy views of London. Modern pop art pieces that will create the perfect backdrop for any picture. Don't forget to order room service - the truffle popcorn will be the highlight.
The Lanesborough
The Lanesborough
There’s nothing quite like afternoon tea at The Lanesborough, especially Disney’s Cruella inspired tea. The hotel’s Head Pastry Chef, Kevin Miller has created a limited-edition menu for their ‘It’s A Little Bit Mad’ tea, which includes some extremely instagrammable masterpieces. One of our favourites is the ‘Rebel Heart’ - a fragmented black heart with white chocolate feuillentine base, yoghurt raspberry mousse and a liquid hibiscus centre. Held in the Céleste room of The Lanesborough, expect oozing opulence, with blue and gold interiors, enormous chandeliers and a glass dome roof. What could be more picturesque? For the full experience, order the Cruella gin cocktail that's served with dazzling dry ice.
The Dorchester
The Dorchester
The Dorchester Rooftop is one of the coolest spots in London. Overlooking the whole of Hyde Park and the London skyline, you’ll be sure to snap some unbeatable instas. The food is equally instagrammable and mouth-wateringly delicious. Look out for the al fresco culinary pop-ups by executive chef Mario Perera for an incredible dining experience. A live band plays every evening and the atmosphere is just amazing. Top tip: try and bag yourself a Dorchester fan and sunglasses for the ultimate souvenirs.
Oblix at The Shard
Oblix at The Shard
What's more instagrammable than London’s tallest building? Dine at Oblix on floor 32, overlooking 360 degree views of London for one of the most instagrammable experiences yet. You know the food’s going to be good when you have to walk through their impressive kitchen to get to the main restaurant.. and the food does not disappoint. Try the tasting menu that includes burrata, truffle flatbread, lobster and steak to name a few. Wait until sunset to get the pic that really will make all your friends jealous.
Stanley’s
Stanley’s
The most popular spot in Chelsea. Hugh Stanley launched the restaurant in July of 2020 and it's even more in demand than ever. Step off the Kings Road and enter the Stanley’s courtyard, a magical oasis with a large floral archway for an entrance. Expect impeccable service, incredible cocktails and a great vibe. Chef Olivia Burt (who appeared on MasterChef) has created an outstanding menu, with highlights including Sourdough Crumpets, Citrus Brined Chicken and Caramelised Chocolate Cremeaux. Whether it’s a few drinks, a three course dinner, indoor or outdoor dining you’re after, Stanley’s has everything you could want.
