December is practically upon us, how that happened I really don’t know but there we are. Diaries are notoriously busy at this time of year but in case you have a little free time, here are some suggestions for places to go and things to try, some of which can be done from the comfort of your own home so you don’t need to brave the chilly winter air.
Krug Kreperie
This little pop up combines two very delightful things – Krug champagne and crepes. Running in Covent Garden from the 2-8 December, and at Koffmann’s at The Berkeley from 9 December until mid-January you will be able to stop by and pick up one of six sweet or savory crepes designed by Pierre Koffmann and a glass of Krug Grande Cuvee for £35. Crepes include a Crab crepe, a Caramel, Apple Crumble crepe, or Pistachio with Caramelised pistachio nuts, inspired by a Pierre Koffmann classic – his pistachio soufflé.
What makes this even more enjoyable is that you will be able to enjoy your little feast inside a French chalet inspired dining pod complete with cosy sheepskin rugs that you can snuggle up in. Rather sweet, in more ways than one.
#KrugKreperie
Arganic Argan Oil
So here is one to try at home. Argan oil from Arganic was quite the surprise. I took a little bottle home to try the other week and the flavour of the oil is rather incredible. It is hugely powerful, slightly nutty and very unexpected.
The oil is apparently very healthy – with cholesterol reducing properties – and rather rare, given that it comes from UNESCO protected Argan trees and Arganic source the 100 per cent organic oil from their partner producer Sidi Yassine in Morocco.
Interestingly for Spear’s readers, Dana Elemara, the founder of Arganic, left a busy job in the City to set up Arganic and has already been nominated for Female Entrepreneur of the Year in the SMARTA 100. You can buy Arganic products online or at Maltby Street Market, which is a much more enjoyable environment for picking up some tasty bits and bobs. I encourage you to try it.
Hixter and Mark’s Bar
So, the festive season just got a little bit more fun if you’re based in the city. Mark Hix is opening up his second chicken and steak joint in Devonshire Square at the beginning of December. The space is huge (it was formerly Sushinho City) and will follow a very similar format to Tramshed in Shoreditch.
The really interesting bit here, however, is that they will be bringing Mark’s Bar with them, so there will no longer be the need to rush over to Soho after work. It will have a separate bar menu and a 2.30am license – perfect for those of you burning the midnight oil in the run up to Christmas.
Advanced bookings can be made by emailing reservations@hixtercity.co.uk