What's On in London: Art Exhibitions, Talks and Food Highlights

London offers a diverse lineup of cultural events, museum exhibitions, and dining options this week. Visitors can explore contemporary art, historical talks, and new neighborhood menus across the city.

Major Exhibitions and Art Shows

• NIGO: From Japan With Love: The Design Museum hosts a retrospective of Japanese creative director NIGO until 4 October 2026, featuring over 700 objects from his personal collection, including streetwear and a replica of his teenage bedroom.

• Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer Portrait Award: The National Portrait Gallery showcases contemporary portrait painting, featuring prizewinners Marc Dalessio, Chloe Cox, Michael Slusakowicz, and Joel Nichols. Admission is free until 7 October 2026.

• American Writers' Week: The British Library presents events featuring US authors and graphic novelists, including Joyce Carol Oates and Alison Bechdel, running from 28 September to 2 October 2026 with in-person and online tickets.

Food and Drink

• Brook & Green: Chiswick features this new neighborhood restaurant serving breakfast and brunch dishes like ricotta hotcakes alongside big plates of sea bass and small plates such as anchovy and parmesan twists.

• Galvin Bistrot: Spitalfields hosts Korean chef Judy Joo alongside Chef Director Arturo Granato for a one-night-only four-course menu blending Korean flavours with French-Mediterranean techniques on 29 September 2026.

• Oktoberfest: Pubs, bars, and restaurants across the city serve special menus with beer, bratwurst, and oompah bands.

Talks and Performances

• Wallace at War: Art historian Andy Friend discusses Hertford House and its wartime exhibitions at the Wallace Collection on 28 September 2026 from 6.30pm to 7.30pm.

• Roger Taylor: The Queen musician performs his only UK shows this year at the Roundhouse in Camden on 28 September 2026, backed by a live band.

• Animal Farm: Barons Court Theatre stages a one-man adaptation of Orwell's work performed by Dov Citron from 29 September to 3 October 2026.