Allons enfants de la patriiiiiiiiiiiie, le jour de gloire est (presque) arri-vé!

And by ‘jour de gloire’, I obviously mean Bastille Day, the most French of all days. 

It’s understandably less of a grand affaire this side of the Channel, but there still are a few special events happening in London so you can eat your fill of croissant and oh-la-la to your heart’s content!

Bastille Festival at the Borough Market

The recently-reopened Market will be full of joie de vivre as, for the 10th year running, the venue is hosting a free festival to celebrate the fabulous fête nationale, along with Better Bankside and Français Du Monde.

Expect all sorts of French delicacies. There will be red, white and blue macarons, crepes and croissants of course, but also traditional waiter’s races, bi-lingual storytelling, Parisian folk music, and petanque playing.

There will also be a special, French themed free demo with Luke Robinson, who will re-work french classics in his own contemporary style.

All you need for a délicieux day!

Terrace BBQ à la Française at Bon Vivant

Fresh fish, burgers and pork chops will be given Bon Vivant’s signature French twist, with classic crème brulée and cherry clafoutis for dessert. Plus, those who come dressed in their best Breton stripes will receive a complimentary glass of rosé. Vive la révolution!

Book here

Bastille Day at Brasserie Zédel

This year again, Brasserie Zédel is having a Bastille Day bonanza on July 14th. From 5.30pm onwards, diners showing up in a stripy blue & white Breton top and a beret will enjoy a complimentary three-course menu with wine and coffee.

Moustache optional but highly recommended!

T&C & more info here

PAUL’s croissant giveaway

French family-run artisan bakery PAUL is offering free freshly-baked croissants at all PAUL bakeries for customers wearing blue and white stripes who declare ‘Bonjour PAUL’ at the till (takeaway only).

Those who dine in Le Restaurant de PAUL Covent Garden or Le Restaurant de PAUL Tower 42 will receive a complimentary glass of bubbly and box of six irresistible mini macaroons when dining from the a la carte.

More information & bookings here

Pastis cocktails at La Poule au Pot

Come celebrate Bastille Day at La Poule au Pot in the utmost French way, with a glass of pastis!

On July 14th, the Belgravia restaurant will be serving creative twists on the popular anise-flavoured spirit and aperitif, such as the Perroquet with mint syrup.

A lot of my favourite regional French dishes, such Rabbit with mustard sauce, Coq au vin and Bouillabaisse also all feature on the menu!

T&C & more info here