Pick of the Pop-ups: A Londoners Guide

Posted by Cara on Nov 15, 2010 in News | 2 comments

Heard the one about the temporary restaurant/shop/installation/bar that emerged for a fleeting moment, became the HOTTEST TICKET IN TOWN via the good ship Word of Mouth, then evaporated into the ether faster than you could say “..come baaack?” a la Winslet in Titanic?

You’ve probably picked up on the buzz surrounding such instances of late. There’s a movement afoot in trends-ville, and it’s sweeping across food, fashion, and everything in between. Its name? ‘Pop-up’.

Ok, so it’s not really a name, more of a prefix. But there’s a lot of punch packed into those five letters. Tapping into Generation Y-bother’s need for speedy stimulation, pop-ups are revolutionising the ways in which we eat, shop, and are entertained. Whether its big tops appearing on Southbank, petrol stations becoming cinemas or living rooms transformed into restaurants, the pop-up phenomenon has taken hold, providing unique, not-to-be-missed experiences for those in the know. And it ain’t slowing down.

But given that the whole point of a pop-up is its blink-and-you’ll miss it mystique, how are we to know when and where these one-offs are taking place? Panic not, fun fans – Groupon are here to help you keep your finger on the pulse, with a series on the best pop-ups appearing on the horizon. Today, it’s one for the foodies, as we share our pick of the best temporary restaurants in town.

Franny’s Soho

The latest addition to Frith Street, Franny’spop-up restaurant is the hotly tipped new kid on the Soho block. Run by a team of friends who transformed the venue from its previous incarnation as an Italian restaurant into – well, another Italian restaurant – in just four days, Franny’s is getting rave reviews for its simple, homemade menu and laid back feel. Expect quality pasta, pizza, burgers and steaks all reasonably price, in stripped-back-but-still-special surroundings. Plus, there’s a killer cocktail menu (good move, chaps). Catch Franny’s while you can – she’s only in town for eight weeks!

WhizzPopBang

Run by two professional chefs and a wine buff, WhizzPopBang dinners are all about showcasing fine flavours – in a different venue each time. There’s an element of mystery involved, as prospective diners book without knowing what they’ll be fed, where they’ll be eating, or who they’ll be sitting down next to. However, with past menus including such treats as slow roaster pork belly with gooseberry and elderflower relish, you know you’re in for a delicious evening. The best part? Each course is matched with a complimentary glass of wine. Now THAT’S a good dinner. WhizzPopBang’s next event takes place on November 27th.

Gingerline

Inspired by the opening of the East London overground line (hence the name), Gingerline events aim to combine fine dining with art and performance, in a celebration of the creative talents of those living on the ‘ginger line’. Taking place anywhere between Dalston Junction and West Croydon, Gingerline events are very much mobile affairs, with guests receiving a text message an hour before kick-off telling them which station to go to. Menus are made up of three locally-sourced, seasonal courses, and are printed on original signed prints by an up-and-coming local artist, for guests to keep. Run by a team of five female friends incorporating a mix of performers, designers and food enthusiasts, each dinner promises to be a truly unique experience – this month, they’re are hosting a Victorian-inspired supper in homage to Marc and Isambard Brunel… Top hats a-go go!

Savoy Truffle Club

Run by husband an award-winning eco-restaurateur and his organic gardener wife, the Savoy Truffle Club has risen rapidly through the culinary ranks, nabbing a pitch at this year’s London Restaurant Festival after just 18 months in business. Savoy Truffle’s commitment to thwacking great flavours from simple, sustainable ingredients makes it a pop up perfect for those serious about their supping. Dinners are usually 6-course affairs, in surprise venues across the capital – watch their website for news on an upcoming Christmas pop-up…

The Underground Restaurant

Run by photographer-turned chef/entrepreneur/blogger extraordinaire Ms Marmite Lover (you’ll love it or hate it), The Underground Restaurant launched in January 2009 as one of the UK’s first supper clubs. Running every Saturday in the inimitable Marmite’s own living room (an address kept firmly secret as the privileged knowledge of those lucky enough to join her 26-seater parties) Underground remains one of the most sought-after pop ups in the capital. A Five course, coffee and a cocktail are offered, with occasional wine tastings too. Dinners are themed along fantastical lines – past incarnations include the French Revolution, Halloween vampires and even a Latitudinal World-Wide Dinner – and upcoming Christmas events include suppers with stand-up comedians and an Underground Christmas Market. Again, in the living room. Definitely one worth watching!

And for those outside of London, check out the Supper Club Fan Group for news on pop up eateries popping up in your area!

Photography by dibytes and The English Can Cook