Happy Friyay!

Where to?

For me, winding down on a usual Friday night would mean relaxing at home. After a busy week, I can't be bothered to step out, unless there's a good reason to do so. Last Friday, however, was different. We decided to take a spontaneous trip to Oxford Street to visit Mercato Mayfair, a hip food market inside an old deconsecrated church.

Mercato Mayfair is just a 5-minute walk from Bond Street Underground Station. You pass Oxford Street, which is always beautifully lit up; this time the trees were brightly lit in blue and yellow colours, the colours of the Ukraine flag, to show solidarity with the nation.

Mercato Mayfair

As you enter this old building, you will first notice

the beautiful stained-glass windows. They are a treat for the eyes - you can't miss them!

There are various dining and bar options that are spread across the two floors; the ground floor and the upper terrace.

The street food market hall hosts a range of artisanal products, fresh, sustainable and authentic food from worldwide cuisines:

Neapolitan Pizza, Fresh Pasta, Bao, Dumplings and Ramen, Grilled meat, Burgers, Chicken Rotisserie, Asian Fusion Street Food, Malaysian Food, Middle Eastern Food, Authentic Chai,

German Beer, Artisanal Gin and Iconic Italian Gelato!

What we recommend!

We tried the Hummus Salad from Beyroots. The side dish came with a generous amount of fresh, homemade hummus served with crispy fattoush salad, and topped with pomegranate dressing and deep-fried Lebanese flatbread. I love hummus. So, this one's a favourite!

Thai is my go-to food when I am surrounded by so many food choices! I ordered the Thai Green Curry (Vegan) from Pad Thai House. The smooth green curry, made with coconut milk and a mix of herbs and spices, was served in a large bowl with veggies and chewy tofu (the texture of the tofu was interesting!) and steamed jasmine rice (also available with prawn and chicken). As you can see, I helped myself with a liberal amount of fried onions, fried garlic and crushed peanuts as extra toppings. Yum! This was one of the tastiest Thai Green curries I have had in a long time. I kid you not.

Mercato Mayfair is worth a visit! Especially, after a long day's shopping at Oxford Street. Since it was a short visit for us, we are yet to explore it all. Definitely coming back for more, preferably on a weekday. It was quite busy on a Friday evening. And, I am told it's packed on weekends - so plan wisely! They have a seating area in the centre of the hall on the ground floor, as well as a rooftop terrace at the very top - don't miss it!

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Sweet Treat for the Day

Right outside Bond Street station, you will find a Wafflemeister outlet. It's hard to miss the sweet aroma of vanilla in the air around.

At Wafflemeister's, they claim to make London's finest handmade waffles. Their signature Belgian Liège waffles are most popular. They also serve Italian-style gelato and coffee.

My absolute favourite is Strawberry Heaven; a Liège waffle topped with whipped cream, a drizzle of Belgian chocolate and freshly cut strawberries! You have got to try this one.

It's always great to end your week on a sweet note, isn't it? ;) #TGIF!

Have a great weekend ahead!

♡ Always!

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