Joe Allen in Covent Garden has opened a new bar inspired by its original sister location in NYC. For pre or post-theatre drinks, head to the front of the restaurant to find the dark walnut counter surrounded by bentwood bar stools and an extensive selection of spirits. Treat yourself to classic cocktails or champagne, and tuck into dishes from the main menu, like flat iron chicken with gremolata and fries. Every Tuesday to Saturday, there’s live music from 7pm, and there will be special performances in the coming months as part of the ‘Joe’s Bar Live’ series – singer-songwriter Natalie Lindi will take to the stage on Wednesday 5th October at 8pm.

2 Burleigh Street, Covent Garden, WC2E 7PX

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The V&A’s latest exhibition celebrates the colourful and dynamic pop culture of South Korea. From TV and film to music and fashion, it explores the phenomenon of ‘Korean Wave’ and its impact on the creative industries. Visitors will find an extensive collection of 18th and 19th-century artwork, as well as stills from Oscar-winning Parasite and Netflix’s Squid Game. There’s also an interesting collection of images of Seoul throughout the last century that show the city’s rapid development, particularly in technology.  

Cromwell Road, South Kensington, SW7 2RL

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Seed Library, the seriously cool 70s-inspired bar at the 100 Shoreditch hotel, has teamed up with north London’s Norman’s Café on a menu of classic British dishes that will transport you back to childhood. Available until mid-November, there’s a range of the café’s signatures including sliced ham with pickles and mustard, chip butties, whipped cod’s roe with Frazzles, potato smiley faces with ketchup, and chicken nuggets with Norman’s sauce. Complete the meal with a warming bowl of sponge cake with vanilla custard, and choose cocktails from Mr Lyan’s signature list – like the Bonfire Old Fashioned made with Maker's Mark bourbon.

100 Shoreditch High Street, Shoreditch, E1 6JQ

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The British Art Fair is at Saatchi Gallery from Thursday 29th September to Sunday 2nd October. Celebrating established and up-and-coming names in the art world, it offers visitors a chance to view a selection of pieces for sale, drop into exhibitions and meet the artists. Some of the UK’s best art dealers will exhibit works, including Adrian Hill, Samuel Gallery, Piano Nobile and Jonathan Clark. Once you’ve browsed the galleries, take part in one of the auctions over the weekend to help raise funds for WaterAid, then stop for drinks at Toast Ale’s pop-up. Tickets start from £18.

Duke of York's HQ, King's Road, Chelsea, SW3 4RY

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On Friday 7th October from 7.30pm, Scotland’s Glen Grant distillery is hosting a whisky tasting evening at Milroy’s Spitalfields. Guests will be guided through an experiential masterclass with whisky expert Chris Dennis. You’ll sample a range of Glen Grant scotch, as well as various water sources from different regions in the UK to see how a drop of water can impact the taste and profile. Chris will also share his predicted whisky trends for 2023 – and you can ask him any burning questions to elevate your at-home cocktails. Tickets cost £30pp which includes a whisky cocktail and canapés. 

76 Commercial Street, Spitalfields, E1 6LY

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The London Marathon takes place this weekend, but if you’re not taking part, head to the Running Show at ExCel London to get inspired for your next race. From today until Saturday 1st October, visitors can tune into celebrity and expert talks, including a talk from Sir Mo Farah at 4.10pm on Thursday 29th September. Other speakers include Leyton Orient midfielder Matt Young, nutritionist Anita Bean, long-distance runner Phil Sesemann and TV presenter Mark Wright. You can also book sports massages, and browse running tech and sportswear from brands like New Balance.

Royal Victoria Dock, 1 Western Gateway, E16 1XL

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On Monday 3rd October from 6.30pm, Michelin-starred Mayfair restaurants Benares and Hakkasan are teaming up for a special charity dinner. Taking place at Benares, guests can enjoy an eight-course tasting menu which celebrates Indian and Cantonese cuisine. The menu is strictly under wraps, but you can expect signature plates from the restaurants’ exec chefs Sameer Taneja and Andrew Yeo. All profits from the night will be donated to the NHS. Tickets cost £168pp and include a welcome glass of champagne.

12A Berkeley Square, Mayfair, W1J 6BS

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