What’s New, On & Happening in Fulham

What’s New

Brook & Badger

It was sad passing the vacant and run down looking site that was previously Locale and then the Fulham tavern on Munster Road, so we were delighted last November to see builders inside and a sign outside announcing the arrival of Brook & Badger. Eamon Manson, owner of Brook House, is a 30 year veteran of the local pub and restaurant scene, he opened the Pen in Parson’s Green in 1993, followed by the Sands End, Brown Cow and Cross Keys which he sold as a group in 2016. This time Eamon has joined forces with long term friend and pop art dealer Adrian Palengat, to work his magic in Fulham once again.

Urban Village LDN caught up with Eamon who told us “I’ve been looking for another location in Fulham. I didn’t want a site that would compete with Brook House so Munster Road was perfect. Size and aesthetic was also important and 222 ticked all those boxes. This time round I wanted to create a place that said “pub” but still delivered a beautifully curated interior and if I’m honest I think Brook and Badger has delivered on both. We opened in mid-December and have literally been full every night. Sundays sees 250+ coming for lunch. I feel this part of Fulham has been under served for many years. Until now there has been no social hub on Munster Road. My hope is the arrival of the Brook and Badger will encourage other small and boutique businesses to make this part of Fulham a village again”.

We’ve already been twice, to do some in depth investigation on your behalf of course, and we know, because you’ve told us, that you like an Urban Village LDN restaurant review. So here goes …on our first visit we were a little thrown by the entrance, don’t try the doors in front of you instead head to the left hand side of the building; it wasn’t just us we’ve seen others do it! The interiors are predominantly gorgeous shades of green with dark wood tables, floors and a beautiful wallpapered tree scape alcove in the dining area. To start with we tried the Whipped ricotta walnut, pomegranate molasses, pear with baby rocket and Roast beetroot goats cheese, hazelnut truffle pesto, apple balsamic dressing which we shared and deemed both to be equally delicious. For mains we had the whole plaice and Cottage Pie. Truth be told we did slightly struggle with the main course choices, we were looking for something lighter and would have loved a chicken option. Having said that both mains were full of flavour and left us sated and we’re sure they’ll be some lighter options in the summer.

On arrival the second time, the restaurant was bustling on a Friday night. We swerved starters because there weren’t many gluten free options for one of our guests and they didn’t fancy the salad options so we went straight to the mains. We opted for one of Brook & Badger’s pub classics, Hanger Steak with horseradish butter and fries (we’re not chimichurri fans which is the other option). The fries were incredible as was the quality of the steak we inhaled. Other pub classics include Chicken and Mushroom Pie, Beer batter Haddock and a Cheeseburger. The other two members of our party chose Pork chop with creamed sprouts, cranberries, chestnuts, bacon which features on the mains menu alongside Pumpkin risotto and Braised Venison. The portion size was met with approval and every morsel enjoyed.

The service was great even though it was so busy. On arrival our table wasn’t ready but that was explained to us and we were told it wouldn’t be long and it wasn’t. We loved the atmosphere and think, like Brook House, the combination of being a place where you can drop in for a pint, a glass or wine or two and some nibbles or alternatively have dinner is a great one . It makes it a good social option for a younger demographic of which there is a lot in this part of our urban village. We have to say we agree with the Brook & Badger claim to be “Munster Road’s missing ingredient”. We know from previous incarnations that the terrace is a great sun trap in summer but for now the terrace has heaters to get cosy under in winter temperatures. Our research didn’t extend to Sunday lunch but we’ve heard its phenomenal - guess what we’ll be checking out on our next visit!

Bricks 4 Kidz

Bricks 4 Kidz is a well established franchise in over 60 countries and now London has its first centre which opened here in Fulham a few weeks ago. The essence of Bricks 4 Kidz is that children are introduced to S.T.E.M (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) from an early age through structured, play based learning experiences designed to support cognitive, social and creative development.

We headed off to the Munster Road to meet owners Rachel and Florian and find out more about their new venture. Rachel told us “both of us are from the South of France and whilst I was a graduate studying Psychology and Language Sciences at UCL in London I started a summer job at Bricks 4 Kids back home in France and loved it. After coming back to the UK I started work as a SEN teacher and was then offered a teacher apprentice role at which point Florian joined me here in the UK. The role was quite overwhelming and I found the strict and rigid structures at odds with the playful side of education that I’d previously experienced. I messaged Bricks 4 Kids to express interest in a franchise here in London and they responded straight away. I quit my job as a teacher last summer and we took the leap”.

Rather than a mobile businesses Rachel and Florian decided to chose bricks and mortar. They loved the feel of Fulham and it felt “meant to be” when they found a vacant site (previously an estate agent) opposite St John’s Walham school. Florian told Urban Village LDN “I ran a group in the South of France that involved activities for kids through schools and sports so I knew the pull of Lego was huge. We’re excited to be the first centre here in London and are keen to expand the business. Rachel continues “Fulham is such a wonderful community, we love it and the first few weeks of business has been great with lovely feedback and incredible word of mouth recommendation from parents”

Bricks 4 Kids also host birthday parties with different packages for 5+ and up, relaxed week end sessions, after school clubs and holiday camps. There’s also a French motorised building session twice a week. We were so impressed by Rachel and Florian’s positivity and excitement about opening their first Bricks 4 Kidz franchise here in Fulham. We really enjoyed meeting them and hearing about their shared passion for creative learning, commitment to creating a positive and engaging environment where children can learn and grow through play.

Sunny Spot

Sunny Spot is a Japanese inspired deli and café led by chef Kensuke Suzuki who worked for over five years in a Michelin-starred Tokyo restaurant and Japanese co founders. They wanted their small Japanese food business to bring high-level, authentic Japanese food to the local Fulham community, without the need to travel into central London. Gendai one of the founders told Urban Village LDN “although we have experience working in fine Japanese restaurants in London, our training and foundations were built in Japan itself. This strongly influences how we cook from technique and flavour balance to respect for traditional methods. Our aim with Sunny Spot is to offer people in Fulham and Wandsworth the opportunity to enjoy genuinely authentic Japanese food at a level normally associated with central London restaurants, but in a more local, approachable, and affordable way. We want our food to be something people can enjoy regularly, as part of their everyday lives”.

Sunny Spot’s menu is designed to be enjoyed from lunch through to dinner with build your own bento-style boxes, Japanese comfort dishes such as chicken katsu curry, rice bowls, tempura, Sashimi, Udon and sushi. All their food, from sauces to desserts and drinks (including matcha) are homemade, which means they don’t serve ready-made or pre-prepared products. As well as eating in you can also order delivery from all the usual platforms.

Gendai told us “Fulham felt like the perfect match for Sunny Spot’s ethos. It’s a neighbourhood with a strong sense of community, health-conscious locals, and a great mix of families, professionals, and creatives. We wanted to open in an area where people genuinely value quality food, wellbeing, and independent businesses and Fulham naturally stood out. We loved the visibility, footfall, and the character of Wandsworth Bridge Road It feels like a growing local hub, and we saw an opportunity to bring something fresh and uplifting to the area, a space that feels bright, welcoming, and community-driven”.

We asked Gendai how the response has been from locals since they opened “really positive. We’ve had great feedback from locals who appreciate the healthy focus, fresh ingredients, welcoming atmosphere, and the authenticity of our Japanese food. We’re also seeing Sunny Spot become a popular option both for lunch and for dinner, with a growing base of regular customers who value genuine flavours and a true taste of Japan, which has been very encouraging. Our hope is that Sunny Spot becomes a warm, welcoming space where people gather, connect, and feel uplifted just like a sunny day”.

Sambal Sim

Fulham locals can enjoy a plethora of international cuisines and for the first time that includes Malay food. Sambal Sim located at 636 Fulham Road is a cafe style restaurant where traditional Malaysian flavours meet contemporary home cooking techniques. Owner Sim is a Malaysian from Kota Kinabalu, Sabah in East Malaysia and, wanting to share her love of Malay food with others, she embarked on a journey to start her own business. The team opened the doors to Sambal Sim in December last year where most of Sim’s dishes are inspired by her mum and sister in law’s home cooked meals. The restaurant uses fresh ingredients with no short cuts to create well-liked Malaysian dishes such as Nasi Lemak, Mee Goreng, Satay and Mango Salad.

We were amazed to see how swiftly Sambal Sim renovated. Sim told us “from start to finish it took around 10 days. All the wall baskets and other local handicrafts used in the decor were carried here from Malaysia by my Mother”. We asked how business has been since they opened “the reaction has been great, although business has been unstable as we are new and its slow in the month of January we already have many regulars after just two months of being open. It is so encouraging and the whole team are so grateful for the support and we promise to provide a consistent and quality dining experience for everyone that comes to Sambal Sim. We’ve been busy working on the new menu additions as we want to introduce a few new dishes every few months. The latest additions include curry dishes with paratha/ roti canai (layered and buttery flatbread) with fresh and delicious homemade sauces and we look forward to more locals coming through our doors to try us”.

Other dishes on the menu include starters Ayam Goreng (fried chicken wings), Udang Goreng (prawns with lemon grass) and chicken satay. Mains include lamb chops served with turmeric coconut rice, cucumber salad and green sambal and Butter Prawns (both £16.50). Malaysian drinks include Milo Dino (a creamy chocolate malt drink) and lychee jasmine, coconut mango and coconut pineapple punches.

We’ve no doubt Sim and her team will give you a warm welcome if you fancy trying a taste of Malaysia. Book a table and find out more on the link below.

What’s On

Art for wellbeing: Weds 11 (3-4pm)

A relaxed creative workshop for adults hosted by Civet House, Fulham Road. One hour focused on well being, self expression and calm. No skills needed and all materials provided. Limited to ten participants book here https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/art-for-well-being-a-relaxed-creative-workshop-for-adults-in-fulham-tickets-1981235084471

Boots & Daisies Hoedown: Thurs 12 (7.30 - 9.00pm)

Dust off your cowboy boots, grab your hat, and get ready to dance at Boots & Daisies Line Dancing Hoedown at Fulham Pier. They’re bringing the country spirit with a fun-filled line dancing class and social for all levels; whether you’re a seasoned two-stepper or a total beginner, a friendly instructor will walk you through easy-to-learn routines while you mingle with fellow cowboys and cowgirls. No partner or experience needed, just bring your best moves, a big smile and get ready for unforgettable western-style fun! Price: £10.00 https://www.fulhampier.com/event/96443/tickets

SOFAP: (12 Feb - 29 March)

The Society of Fulham Artists and Potters (SoFAP), a pillar of the local art community since 1952, are opening their pop-up gallery and shop once again on the first floor of the Fulham Broadway shopping centre. The pop up will showcase a diverse collection of original artworks by artists based in SW6 including ceramics, handcrafted items and artist designed items; all available for purchase. Visitors will have the opportunity to engage directly with our vibrant local art scene, discover unique pieces that reflect the talent and diversity of artists here in Fulham https://www.sofap.co.uk/

Valentine’s Cocktail workshop: 14 (4.30 - 6.30pm)

Stir up some chemistry this Valentine’s Day at the Sands End Arts & Community Centre with love potions, a fun and flirty cocktail-making experience for pairs. Enjoy a candlelit setting, premium spirits and hands-on guidance with the head sommelier of Oma as you craft drinks that are as beautiful as they are delicious. A perfect Valentine escape for couples, friends and cocktail enthusiasts alike https://www.eventbrite.com/e/valentines-cocktail-workshop-tickets-1980551211990?aff=oddtdtcreator

Sunday Jazz Cafe: Sun 15 (3-4.30pm)

The Sherry Jazz Ensemble are a talented line up of musicians that will create an experience to leave you tapping your feet, whilst The Walnut Tree Café at Sands End Arts and Community Centre (SEACC) provides the perfect cosy and intimate ambiance. Whether you’re a jazz enthusiast or simply looking for a delightful way to spend your Sunday afternoon, gather your friends and family, and join them for this Valentine's edition of the Sunday Jazz Café filled with soulful tunes, cultural delights, and good company. FREE drop in event donations for the musicians are appreciated.

Sherlock Holmes and The Case of The Missing Blue Carbuncle: Fri 20 (2-3pm)

What happens when the world’s greatest detective finds an old hat and a slightly squished cake? You get a Blue Carbuncle, one of the rarest and most valuable jewels ever, which has become the centre of a robbery scandal that has gripped the nation. Can you help Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson solve the mystery of how the jewel ended up inside a cake and discover who put it there?

This interactive storytelling show is based on Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic tale, perfect for children aged 7 to 11 and their grown-ups. Tickets: £12 per adult / child. Family ticket £45 https://www.fulhampalace.org/whats-on/events/half-term-theatre-sherlock-holmes/

Alpine Wines & Raclette: Fri 27 (7.30-9.30pm)

Join Kenrick’s Wandsworth Bridge Road for a relaxed Friday evening inspired by après-ski drinking in the Alps. They’ll be serving freshly melted raclette cheese with potatoes and classic accompaniments, paired with a selection of alpine wines. Expect crisp whites and elegant reds from Austria, Alto Adige, and France, generous pours, and a warm, social atmosphere. This is not a formal tasting, but a cosy winter night built around great wine, melted cheese, and good company. Tickets £35 per person CLICK HERE!

What’s Happening

Little Sourdough Kitchen

The Little Sourdough Kitchen on Munster Road is getting ready to reopen after closing briefly in the New Year for refurbishment. We can’t wait to see the refreshed space which we’ve been told will feature natural wood, earthy textures and a bright yellow palette. The new look has been designed to make the site more energetic, lighter and warmer in line with LSK’s new branding. We’ve already met Anna Konig and Ben Costello the new onsite leadership team running the Little Sourdough Kitchen; we introduced them to you in our November issue.

As we’re sure you’re all aware LSK is a much-loved local artisan bakery, queues outside every Saturday and their freshly baked bread and pastries which sell out fast is testimony to that. After serving the Fulham community for the past eight years the team are entering the next chapter, following its acquisition by chef Phil Howard and restaurateur Julian Dyer. Julian is local and has been visiting Little Sourdough Kitchen for years. Conversations with the previous owner began organically, initially around producing more focaccia for Dyer and Howard’s pasta focussed restaurant group NOTTO. When it became clear the owner was planning a return to Italy and looking to sell, the opportunity presented itself. Julian told Urban Village LDN “It was already an excellent bakery, that was the point. This wasn’t about coming in and changing something, it was about protecting it, supporting it, and helping it develop and expand.” says Dyer. Phil continues “Anna and Ben represent the future of this much-loved artisan bakery. They are young, incredibly talented and will evolve the product following a strong ethos using unique, varied, local and sustainable ingredients.”

From our conversations with Anna, Ben and the new owners it’s clear that the bakery remains rooted in the same values that have made it such a fixture of our urban village: small-batch baking, delicious bread and viennoiserie, and a community-first approach. The original team has been retained in full, the core menu preserved, but there are new additions and a new look! We’re looking forward to the launch of LSK 2.0.

Spring Pop up Market

The Creighton Centre, a small local charity and community centre who work with vulnerable people in the area, have announced that they will be holding a Spring Pop up Market on Saturday 18 April (12-4pm) at the Centre at 378 Lillie Road.

Centre Project Worker Emilia Manzo-Slater got in touch with Urban Village LDN to help spread the word that they are currently looking for vendors to hire stalls at this event, with a focus on local independent businesses and makers. “This will be a showcase for a wide range of crafters, makers and independent businesses and provide an opportunity for the local community to purchase a variety of products. We will also be highlighting some of the excellent work we do at the Creighton Centre”.

They are currently inviting vendors to reserve a space so if you’re a crafter, maker or independent business (or if you know someone who is) get in touch! Stall fees are £40 for a large table or £30 for a small table and interested stall holders can apply on the link below. Any questions email Emilia  emanzo-slater@creightoncentre.org or contact on 07345 326642

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