The Chelsea Flower Show (24-28 May 2016) may be the gardener's highlight of the year, showcasing cutting edge design and an abundance of imagination, but food and drink aficionados can also be inspired from the floral offerings after the show nearby within the capital. This inspiring event the signals the start of summer time and for those feeling inspired after a day at the show London has plenty of floral inspired food and cocktails to enjoy.
For a taste of spring, The Savoy's Beaufort Bar features a cocktail inspired by the beautiful gardens which flank the Savoy's South side. The 'Embankment Gardens' (£16.00) is made from Oxley Gin, Spiced Martini Bianco, Fresh Lime Juice, Fig Leaf Syrup and dressed with a lime twist.
At Native, a new restaurant in Neal's Yard in Covent Garden, the emphasis is on wild food. One of their dishes, made with soft egg, smoked salmon, salt baked beetroot lovage, and bramble dressing is visually stunning and, scattered with edible flowers, it is spring on a plate.
At their new Brick Lane venue, the award-winning bartenders from Cocktail Trading Company have designed the playfully titled cocktail, 'Bee's Knees' (£9.00). A light and fresh tipple, it is concocted from gin, lemon juice, and honey served with a sprig of lemon thyme and amusingly topped with a rice paper bee.
Kansas Smitty's jazz and julep bar has created the 'Allotment Julep' which transports the drinker out into the garden (£8). Infused with nettle, elderflower, carrot, coriander seed, apple, pear, and mint it is the ultimate green-fingered cocktail.