What to do in London this week: the A list

// OPENING //

Itaku

You heard it here the first time. The famous restaurateur Jean-Bernard Fernandez-Versini has opened his first restaurant in London, Itaku, and it is a dream. With chef Ivan Simeoli at the helm, this new Great Portland Street spot is home to a menu that celebrates an unorthodox mix of Italian and Japanese cuisine. The menu is fabulous and full-bodied, and if you’re wondering about certain ingredient combinations, be prepared to go wrong in the most delicious way possible. Each dish is delicately balanced, adding sexy Japanese touches to traditional Italian cooking methods. Must-try dishes include the Cappelletti in Dashi (tortellini with miso broth and Japanese mushrooms), Octopus Puttanesca and hearty truffle carbonara, all washed down with a few “Renaissance” cocktails (their version of a margarita with Patron silver tequila and pear liqueur). Divine. Itaku was packed even during a tube strike, showing just how hungry Londoners are for this stylishly eclectic cuisine. Itaku

// THE WELL-BEING //

Sarah Jane Watson

It goes without saying that not all massages are created equal, but some simply transcend any previous experience to the point of demanding a category of their own. Such is the case with Sarah Jane Watson, whose intuitive ability, soothing manner, and unparalleled skill have made her one of the nation’s most in-demand massage therapists. Of course, technique and training are important — and Watson has both in abundance, having cut his teeth with famed massage pioneer Clare Maxwell-Hudson decades ago. But what really sets her apart is a natural intuition that borders on the clairvoyant – and that’s something that can’t be learned. She was simply born with it, and ever since finding herself drawn to her mother’s shoulder massage as a child, it’s a gift she has most graciously shared with those who have been fortunate enough to find her. The SJW Signature treatment is completely bespoke; Watson is able to apply his healing touch to rebalance and unblock, while his potent aromatherapy blends, rhythmic flow and varying pressures immerse you in a state of deep rest, allowing mind and body to come together. recalibrate simultaneously. The result is not only a body that feels better than it has in years, but also mind and spirit, as well as a sense of peace and well-being all at once. lasting and deep. Sarah Jane Watson

// EVENT //

Corney and Barrow present “Women in Wine”

In light of International Women’s Day, Corney and Barrow are showcasing the women winemakers in their portfolio and celebrating talented women in the wine industry with a fabulous dinner party. Ideally taking place on the (thirsty) Thursday of March 17, this tutored tasting dinner (with a special guest) will pay homage to the women behind Ambriel, Domaine Carrette, Nelson Estate, Cecilia Beretta and many more, while being a good old – knees shaped up. Join us as we dive into their must-have selection of bottles celebrating all these wineries with women in the lead roles. It will be a truly memorable evening. Tickets cost £75. To buy here.

// APPEAR //

Aje at Harrods

In exciting clothing news, Sydney-based label Aje is available in a London pop-up until April 17, and at Harrods no less. Curated by co-founders Edwina Forest and Adrian Norris, the pop-up is a first for the Australian brand, which has transformed the space to align with their design ethos and unique aesthetic, unveiling the ready-to-wear collection. SS22 women’s wear from the house, “Séquence”. Textured wall-to-floor treatments, a palette of natural white hues, curved architecture and bespoke artwork by artist Chanel Tobler create the perfect backdrop for Aje’s dream collection, which includes a edition of hand painted mini and midi dresses in shades of lilac, ivory, black and teal ombré. Voluminous puff sleeves, subtle ruffle detailing and sexy cutouts create an air of rugged femininity and effortless cool, and a fleet of dedicated Harrods stylists are on hand to guide you through it all. Aje

// LIQUID SOLUTION //

Moretta Cocktail by Common Decency at NoMad London

Ingredients

25ml kumquat syrup

25ml lemon juice

30 ml fino sherry

30ml Del Maguey Vida Mezcal

10 drops of saline solution

Fresh mint leaves

cucumber slice

Method

1. Shake the ingredients in a shaker, adding five fresh mint leaves and a slice of cucumber.

2. Pour into a tall rocks glass filled with crushed ice.

3. Garnish with a ribbon of cucumber and a small spring of fresh mint.