London offers a vibrant mix of new culinary experiences, immersive art installations, and serene escapes, as highlighted in a recent exploration of the city's offerings. The day begins at Somerset House with a visit to Aram by Imad, a restaurant founded by Syrian chef Imad Alarnab. The establishment offers a modern take on Eastern Mediterranean cuisine, with dishes like poached eggs with labneh and spanakopita florentine drawing praise.
From Somerset House, the itinerary moves to the Southbank Centre for Anish Kapoor's exhibition "Ha Makom." This landmark show features immersive and confronting art, including Kapoor's signature light-absorbing black holes and a large red installation. The exhibition runs until October 18 and includes Kapoor's reflective steel mirrors positioned outdoors.
Midday brings a focus on dining at Café Clement, an all-day brasserie located within the new St. Clement Hotel, founded by Soho House creator Nick Jones. The hotel overlooks the Thames. The café's menu includes notable items such as a cheese soufflé and house-made mint ice cream.
The afternoon transitions to a different kind of experience at Aire Ancient Baths. Situated beneath an 18th-century building near Charing Cross, which was once home to J.M. Barrie, the subterranean spa offers a tranquil retreat. The baths feature a series of pools with temperatures ranging from 10C to 40C within a candlelit, vaulted brick setting. A highlight is the flotarium, a pool with high salinity.
Following the spa experience, a refreshing green juice provides a revitalizing end to the day's curated exploration.