Stephanie Mulholland 15th September 2022

Bottomless brunch at Ballie Ballerson in Shoreditch, London

If you’re looking for a girly brunch in London with a difference, you’ll love bottomless brunch at Ballie Ballerson.

Ballie Ballerson is an adult ball pit venue in Shoreditch and it’s certainly a unique thing to do in London.

As part of its two-hour bottomless brunch experience, you’ll have full access to both ball pits, as well as 90 minutes of unlimited sourdough pizza, pornstar martinis and prosecco.

We decided to head to Ballie Ballerson as part of a girly weekend away. Little did I know, it would be a pre-hen celebration, making the occasion even more special!

Brunch options at Ballie Ballerson

There are two tickets to choose from, the VIP Brunch or Standing Baller Brunch. These are priced from £25 and £35 respectively. Do note, brunch tickets are more expensive for the afternoon session.

There are extras you can include. If you’re celebrating, you can also pre-order a pick ‘n’ mix sweet cake for your session.

The VIP Brunch at Ballie Ballerson

Annoyingly, you’ll need to pay a little extra if you want to be seated throughout the bottomless brunch.

The VIP Brunch seated tickets ensure your own private booth in the VIP area. In my opinion, the seated tickets offer a far nicer experience.

Standing Baller Brunch at Ballie Ballerson

However, if you do choose the standing option, you may be able to bag a high-top table. These are available on a first come first serve basis, so you’ll have to be quick!

On the plus side, it’s far easier to dance if you opt for the standing option.

What’s the music like?

For our Saturday session, we had resident DJ, Izzy Trixx. You can expect a mix of Disco, House, Commercial, Hip Hop, RnB, Garage, Rock and Drum and Bass.

Honestly, the music just made the occasion with non-stop nostalgic hits.

What’s the food and drinks like?

The food and drink at Ballie Ballerson is amazing. Within the 90 minutes, you can expect freshly made sourdough pizza alongside unlimited prosecco and pornstar martinies.

The delicious pizza is made to dietary preference, so everyone is catered for.

We all found the service quick and friendly. There was no chasing down staff to get more food or top ups and we all felt like we got good value for money.

What is this adult ball pit experience like?

Ballie Ballerson is a fabulous brunch venue. For the young-at-heart, it’s amazing to just go wild amongst the alleged one million balls. It’s kind of like reliving all of your childhood soft play memories.

There are two glowing ball pits to explore as part of the experience and they’re a lot of fun. You can enjoy the glowing semi-translucent white ball pit with its ceiling mirror. The second, a candy-coloured affair with a wall embellished with Love Hearts quotes.

Overall, brunch at Ballie Ballerson was such a wonderful experience, and I cannot wait to return with my girls.

Would you check out brunch at Ballie Ballerson?

Stephanie xox

Looking for more places to eat in London?

Stephanie Mulholland 16th October 2019 Tombo - Japanese Cafe, 28 D'Arblay St, Soho, London W1F 8EW

Looking for the best matcha cheesecake in London?

If you are looking for the best matcha cheesecake in London, you’re in luck.

In three locations across the capital, you will find the Japanese cafe, Tombo. Discover these matcha havens in South Kensington, Fitzrovia and Soho.

Once inside, sample matcha treats within a traditional Japanese styled interior.

An instant draw for matcha lovers is the cheesecake. Above all, the vegan matcha cheesecake and marble cheesecake. Thankfully, the vegan version is also gluten free!

The marble cheesecake is presented in the New York style with a twist. This rich cheesecake offers a sesame base and aromatic matcha marble top.

On the other hand, the vegan matcha cheesecake is a combination of coconut cream, tofu and oat milk. Surprisingly, it’s texture stays true and although a little denser, it isn’t any less delicious.

Tombo – the home of matcha desserts and drinks in London

As well as a killer matcha cheesecake, Tombo also offers other matcha inspired desserts and ice creams.

Sample a matcha tart or matcha soft serve ice cream, all in the heart of London. You can also enjoy your matcha hot or chilled, with delicious lattes to boot!

In contrast to sweet treats, Tombo also offers savoury items. These include Poke bowls, sushi, noodles and donburi.

In conclusion, if you are looking for the best matcha cheesecake in London, look no further than Tombo! I will certainly be back to enjoy their savoury dishes soon.

Have you ever been to Tombo? What is your go-to cheesecake flavour?

Stephanie xox

Please follow me on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook for more updates from The LDN Gal

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Stephanie Mulholland 16th February 2019 Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room, 10th Floor, 27 - 31 Charing Cross Rd, London WC2H 0LS

Brunch at Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room, London ?

Brunch at Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room

It’s always exciting when a new brunch hotspot in London appears. A fortnight ago, I headed out for brunch at Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room during its launch weekend.

The new rooftop restaurant and bar is located in the heart of the West End. Situated atop the Assembly Hotel, it offers panoramic views across London and a stunning interior.

The interior is wonderful, with floor-to-ceiling windows, delicate wicker weaved furnishings and citrus dotted flora aplenty.

Their brunch menu is wholesome and delicious, with a selection of vegetarian and vegan items to boot. Fear not meat eaters, there truly is something for everyone!

So, what did I think of Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room?

Opting for savoury over sweet, I ordered the ‘Baked green eggs, all mixed up’. This dish was bursting with flavour, embellished with fresh pesto, crunchy vegetables and baked eggs in an earthy terracotta dish.

As expected, there are options for a bottomless brunch, as well as a selection sumptuous sides, cocktails and fresh juices to suit all.

Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room offers its visitors breakfast, dinner, cocktails and of course, weekend brunch, open daily from 7am.

Have you been to Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room yet? Which item would try from their brunch menu?

Stephanie xox

Please follow me on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook for more updates from The LDN Gal

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Stephanie Mulholland 23rd February 2018 13 Coventry St, London, W1D 7AB

A 90s throwback at the Bubba Gump Shrimp restaurant, London ?

Bubba Gump Shrimp Resturant London review Exterior Shot - The LDN Gal

Bubba Gump Shrimp Restaurant review

Let’s be honest, Forrest Gump is a classic. If you are yet to see it, you need to jump on the pop-culture train for an overload of 90s fun.

Bubba Gump Shrimp, London offers an American seafood extravaganza in a spectacularly Forrest-Gump-themed setting within central London. You could literally spend a good 15 minutes just wandering around looking at all the décor and there is even a shop onsite for the more die-hard fans.

The Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Restaurant is the first in the UK that is inspired by the 1994 hit.

Bubba Gump Shrimp Resturant London review Wall - The LDN Gal

Bubba Gump Shrimp Resturant London review Jenny Wall - The LDN Gal

So, what did I think of the Bubba Gump Shrimp restaurant, London?

The themes throughout the restaurant were pretty incredible, it’s worth a visit just for a gander at the walls alone.

When it comes to the food, I was pleasantly surprised. Me not being a fish fan (the irony), went for what was probably the only chicken dish on the menu. I really didn’t expect much from the food, it was nice, fresh and flavoursome – but nothing to write home about.

However, you don’t visit Bubba Gump Shrimp for the chicken, you visit for the fish. Luckily, my boyfriend, embraces a far more exciting palette and ordered the Forrest’s Seafood Feast.

The dish was embellished with Southern fried shrimp, seafood hush pups and fish, atop a bed of fries and garnished with tartar, cocktail and remoulade sauces, as well as a side of coleslaw.

It was a lovely experience although I wouldn’t say I’d be in a rush to return. Like all themed restaurant, its slightly expensive to eat there, the food isn’t spectacular and it quite often appears as a one trick pony.

At over £50 for two mains, two cokes and a 12.5% service charge (I did not feel like it was warrented in all honesty), it is a little on the expensive side when you are looking at the quality of the meals.

Do remember, “it’s all about shrimp” and if you are a fan of the Forrest Gump film, you will probably have quite the enjoyable evening.

Have you been to the Bubba Gump Shrimp Restaurant in London? Which shrimp dish would you devour?

Stephanie xox

Please follow me on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook for more updates from The LDN Gal

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Stephanie Mulholland 28th January 2018 59A Portobello Rd, London, W11 3DB

Coloured lattes and healthy eats at Farm Girl, London ??☕

Farm Girl cafe review

I have wanted to go to the Farm Girl for quite some time, drawn in by their colourful lattes, vibrant salads and quirky decor dotting across my Instagram feed – they also have a resident bulldog, just one more reason to go really.

Located on Portobello Road in Notting Hill, it made for a nice brisk walk from the nearby tube station. Visiting on a busy Saturday afternoon, we had to wait some time (in the rain) before managing to secure a seat inside.

Do be warned, if you come at the weekend, you may have to wait for up to an hour to be seated. However, it is worth it!

I was taken aback by the bright decor and wonderfully polite staff amidst the hustle and bustle of the cafe, the music was great and the staff attentive.

So, what did I think of the Farm Girl cafe?

The café offers a large room with plush and cosy furnishings inside, as well as a quaint outside seating area – ideal for those food snaps in natural light when the heavens are not open.

The walls inside feature contrasting green square tiling and plush seating which gives off a fabulous natural and earthy vibe. You could really sit there for hours during the week sipping away.

I chose their rose latte, a beautiful flavoured drink garnished with real rose petals. My partner opted for a vibrant blue butterfly matcha latte, taking us back to Japan as we discussed the possibility of a third trip.

Farm Girl offers a healthy and wholesome menu, with breakfast and lunch covered. Think acai embellished fruit bowls, buckwheat pancakes, salads with all the colours of the rainbow, gargantuan sandwiches, eggs-just-the-way-you-like on toast and a variety of homemade soups to name a few items – oh, and the super colourful lattes.

In regards to dining, I opted for a sweet treat, the raspberry croissant. My partner, a chicken sandwich, brimming with guacamole and spiced yoghurt on sourdough bread. If I was feeling a little more peckish, the Açai Bowl would have has my name on it. Maybe next time eh?

Overall, the Farm Girl cafe experience was lovely – the perfect pit-stop before exploring the delights of Portobello Market nearby. The afternoon date proved a little costlier than your standard chain cafés, a hot drink and cake for two will set you back about £15.

Have you been to the Farm Girl Café? Which coloured latte tempts you?

Stephanie xox

Please follow me on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook for more updates from The LDN Gal

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Stephanie Mulholland 7th October 2017 Icebar London, 31-33 Heddon St, Mayfair, London W1B 4BN

Why you need to spend your next date night at the Icebar London ❄️?

An Icebar London experience review

Icebar London satisfies the most difficult to please, a venue offering a plush ‘warm’ bar with delectable cocktails, a restaurant with a charming interior and décor and a sensory experience like no other, a bar crafted from 40 tonnes of Swedish ice from the Torne River.

When it comes to date nights, we are always looking for something unique, an experience that goes beyond the traditional dinner or cinema venture – something that leaves a lasting impression.

Start your evening in the restaurant downstairs, where you will discover a warm and rustic interior. Surrounded by low lit lights with zig-zag filaments, red-brick ceilings and cosy leather seats tucked beneath hardwood tables. The perfect start to date night in London.

Add in Autumnal tones and a relaxed mood, alongside television screens evoking warmth with open log cabin fire videos playing on loop, and you have a beautiful setting and ambience for a romantic evening meal. Serious thought went into the décor, which is complimented by smooth jazz music.

So, what did I think of the Icebar London resturant?

The menu is concise but varied, with European cuisine to suit all tastes and three courses available if desired. The best bit? Vegetarian options are also readily available too.

Starters presented crispy tofu, cooked in breadcrumbs and garnished with pickled cucumber, toasted peanuts and spiced honey. A delicious tangy affair. Although, the tofu was delicious in its own right, its soft interior delicately coated made for something special.

For the main, stuffed peppers brimming with ricotta and a touch of spice (I somehow managed), alongside pistachio pesto and lightly fried quinoa. A variety of sides were also on offer to compliment, and I opted for the corn grilled in husks, a medley of sweetcorn, sour cream and spice once more.

Finally, an indulgent triple chocolate brownie, decorated with toasted marshmallow, salted caramel and ice cream with a crunchy twist. It’s safe to say, we were very full and satisfied.

Top this spectacular dining with a variety of premium cocktails and you are on to a winner. The crumble was a delicious fruit medley, embellished with crumble detailing. My partner, opting for the Rum Blazer and was also drawn in by his fruity concoction, served warm with a rum kick to finish.

The restaurant is truly exquisite in its own right, a warm and luxurious environment that should be recognised in addition to the physical Icebar experience. The food is a varied affair, with lots of quirky touches.

So, what did I think?

Warm and full, we prepared ourselves for the Icebar, sitting in the warm bar upstairs and unwinding beforehand. Once our allocated time came, we were ushered towards the room, faux-fur lined capes placed over heads and our gloves swinging to and fro as we shuffled like Arctic penguins into the bar.

Walking in, I must admit, I was very impressed. The latest instillation presents a Wild in the City theme. Discover an abundance of safari and aquatic animals embracing the walls, sculptures and screens around the room. These are all brought to life as part of an exciting light show – it is a wonderful spectacle.

Although a little smaller than expected, this intimate venue was fabulous. It was fun, different and exciting. Making our way to the actual ice bar, we were presented with champagne cocktails in glasses made of ice.

Essentially, there’s nothing quite like drinking bubbles from an ice glass! The colourful cocktails on offer make for some very pretty pictures indeed.

This sensory experience is simply incredible, thrusting you into a -5°C bar that is brought to life by artistic prowess. There is something quite extraordinary about sitting in a room of solid ice, bopping along to good music and a fabulous light show.

I would thoroughly recommend the entire experience for a date night or special occasion. You can take a peek at Instagram for Icebar London images.

What do you think of the Icebar London? Where is your favourite place for date night?

Stephanie xox

Please follow me on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook for more updates from The LDN Gal

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

This experience was exchanged for an honest review

Stephanie Mulholland 26th August 2017 Wellcome Kitchen, Wellcome Collection

Wellcome Kitchen afternoon tea at the Wellcome Collection, Euston

A Wellcome Kitchen Afternoon TEA REVIEW

I have to admit, I was rather excited for my visit to the Wellcome Kitchen. Not only because it looked exquisite, but also because I was very eager to take a peek around the Wellcome Collection. Known as being the ‘free destination for the incurably curious.’

The Wellcome Collection is a truly spectacular and unique museum. Located near Euston Station, it’s brimming with intriguing exhibits and collections on science, health and life. It blurs the line between technology and art.

As curious as I was, I soon dashed to take our summer-inspired afternoon tea in the Wellcome Kitchen.

Located on the second floor, this boutique venue is divine. It’s bright and elegant and includes a focal display of the celebrated Pill Dress by artist, Susie Freeman.

What is included in the Welcome Kitchen Afternoon Tea?

So, what did we get in our Wellcome Kitchen afternoon tea for two at the Wellcome Collection? Check out the menu below:

A selection of finger sandwiches including cucumber and cream cheese, smoked salmon and coronation chicken
A selection of mini cakes including 2 raspberry and cream tarts, 2 nutty brownies, 2 lemon mouse macarons and 2 red berry cakes
Two fruit scones, Cornish clotted cream and Tiptree strawberry jam
A pot of loose leaf tea (a variety of flavours) or a hot drink each

So, what did I think of the Wellcome Kitchen Afternoon Tea?

In all honesty, I loved this afternoon tea experience. The venue is beautiful and the food divine.

The afternoon tea included a fabulous mix of sandwiches and cakes.

Everything was well presented, with lovely floral china and welcoming staff who graced you with big smiles.

All the food is freshly prepared on site and they even made our sandwiches to order (I cannot have butter, it makes me feel very unwell – odd I know, but, alas) which was a wonderfully helpful touch.

The food is locally-sourced and tends to be seasonal produce, you can even indulge in a glass of sparkling pink Moscato if you feel inclined!

It is the perfect venue to unwind and get lost in great company or even solo. The Wellcome Kitchen is so quiet and calm, away from the vibrancy and bustle of the intrigued visitors of the Wellcome Collection downstairs.

Once you have finished your delicious afternoon tea, you will discover the spectacular Reading Room adjacent, which allows you to unwind with a copy or two and take a peek at an eccentric collection of sculptures, paintings and artefacts.

Overall, a perfect mini-day out wrapped up with lots of technology, culture and food – what’s not to love?

Have you tried the Wellcome Kitchen Afternoon Tea?

Stephanie xox

Please follow me on Twitter | Instagram | Facebook for more updates from The LDN Gal

Food in London

Brunch options at Ballie Ballerson

The VIP Brunch at Ballie Ballerson

Standing Baller Brunch at Ballie Ballerson

What’s the music like?

What’s the food and drinks like?

What is this adult ball pit experience like?

Looking for the best matcha cheesecake in London?

Tombo – the home of matcha desserts and drinks in London

Brunch at Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room

So, what did I think of Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room?

Bubba Gump Shrimp Restaurant review

So, what did I think of the Bubba Gump Shrimp restaurant, London?

Farm Girl cafe review

So, what did I think of the Farm Girl cafe?

An Icebar London experience review

So, what did I think of the Icebar London resturant?

So, what did I think?

A Wellcome Kitchen Afternoon TEA REVIEW

What is included in the Welcome Kitchen Afternoon Tea?

So, what did I think of the Wellcome Kitchen Afternoon Tea?