New Paths & Palates, A City Changes

Quote of the Week - “I live, I burn with life, I am content.” - Robert E. Howard

Good Afternoon, London. If you’re feeling ravenous, this edition of The London Palette has lots to whet your appetite. You can feast until your heart is content on the world’s cuisine at Camberwell’s Food Festival. Or, you can go upmarket and tuck into a feast covering Six Wonders of the World. And, if you still have room to expand your palate, then head over to the Urban Village Fete to meet 30 of London’s finest food and drink producers. After all of this fine dining, work off the excesses at the London Cycling Festival. Each of these festivals will reflect the Ghanaian word of the week.

Snatched highlights from this edition:

1. London Plans for Olympic Gold Again

2. Loud Art Show Rewrites Deaf History

3. Live Music - Osibisa, Courtney Pine & lots more!

Let’s dive in.

—Bybreen Samuels

COUNCIL CANVAS

Leyton Gears Up - London’s Cycling Block Party Rolls In

Waltham Forest is set to turn Leyton Jubilee Park into a buzzing cycling hub on May 25, as part of the inaugural London Cycling Festival. This is a citywide celebration that’s less Tour de France, and more of a community block party on wheels. The initiative is aimed at sparking new habits and connections across the borough. This idea is replicated across 15 other councils and over 40 rides across London. The Festival is about more than pedal power, it’s a statement about how active travel can transform our streets, health, and sense of community.

From 11am to 3pm, Leyton Jubilee Park will be alive with free, family-friendly activities for everyone from toddlers to seasoned cyclists. Bring your own bike for a free Dr Bike check-up, or test ride cycles and e-cycles from local shops like Mamachari and Cycle MOT. While you’re there try your luck at the smoothie bike or cycle sprint games. Or, you can join the guided family ride around Leyton and Hackney Marshes at noon.

If you’re looking to build confidence and break barriers, then this Festival is for you. Take up the opportunities to hire community bikes or meetup with local groups that offer a gateway to an ongoing, accessible activity. The event also champions inclusivity, with links to Waltham Forest’s All Ability Cycling Club, ensuring cycling is truly for everyone.

The council’s approach is clear, cycling and walking aren’t just transport choices, they’re tools for healthier, greener, and more connected neighbourhoods. By uniting businesses, community groups, and residents, the Festival acts as a catalyst for change. By encouraging you to swap car journeys for active travel, you rediscover the joy of exploring your own backyard. This is a win for public health, air quality, and local economies.

As the wheels spin at Leyton Jubilee Park, Waltham Forest is sending a powerful message, the future of urban mobility is collaborative and full of possibility. Whether you’re a cycling newbie, a family looking for a fun day out, or a policymaker seeking inspiration, this Festival proves that even the smallest push can set big changes in motion. It’s like the first pedal stroke in a journey toward a healthier city.

CITY PALETTE

Taste Six Wonders of the World at Nico’s Global Feast

If you’ve ever dreamed of eating your way around the world in one night, Six by Nico’s Six Wonders of the World, ten course experience is your golden ticket. From the moment you sit down, you’re swept into a culinary adventure inspired by the legendary explorer Nicolas Bogg. Each dish is a passport stamp and every bite tells a story. The journey kicks off in Greece with the Statue of Zeus at Olympia. Imagine bold Mediterranean flavours in the form of black olive beignet, smoked beef, and ashed curds. Then, off to Rome with a Colosseum-inspired plate of smoked pork belly, globe artichoke, fregola sarda, and black garlic.

The meal is an immersive, interactive quest. As you travel from the vibrant streets of Brazil, think scorched mackerel and zesty leche de tigre to the ancient walls of China to enjoy grilled bass with white kimchi and XO sauce, each course comes with a puzzle to solve. Crack the code by the end of the night and you’ll be entered into a draw for a £10,000 prize, turning dinner into a treasure hunt where every guest becomes an explorer.

The adventure continues with a decadent Indian-inspired Taj Mahal course, lamb makhani, masala chouriços, a punchy curry leaf and coconut pickle. You’ll end the night in Egypt with the Great Pyramid of Giza, a dessert of bee pollen, honey parfait, sour yoghurt, brown butter, and burnt citrus. Each plate is meticulously crafted to capture the spirit and flavour of its destination. The menu is available in vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary options, so everyone can join the journey.

You can elevate your experiene with optional wine or cocktail pairings. The Six Wonders of the World, is a global escapade for your senses, a playful challenge for your mind, and a night out you’ll be talking about long after the last course. So, are you ready to eat, explore, and maybe even win big? Book your seat, bring your appetite for adventure, and let your tastebuds set sail.

Book reservations here - https://www.sixbynico.co.uk/six-wonders 

Silent Voices, Loud Art Show Rewrites Deaf History

There are moments of history that ripple through generations. When you step into 1880 THAT Exhibition, you’ll find yourself face-to-face with the legacy of the 1880 Milan Conference. This meeting sidelined sign language in Deaf education and left a mark that’s still felt today. Artists Christine Sun Kim and Thomas Mader turn this pivotal event into a living, breathing event, using humour, sharp critique, and playful installations to explore what it means when language and identity are threatened or taken away.

As you wander in, you’re greeted by a simple brick etched with 1880 THAT. It’s part commemorative plaque, part quiet protest and a nod to the missing recognition of Deaf history. It’s also a reminder that language is as foundational as the bricks that build our cities. Throughout the Exhibition, you’ll encounter everything from oversized inflatable arms signing in American Sign Language to eerie clusters of fibreglass noses, a playful wink to the role of the nose in French Sign Language. They’re all designed to make you look twice and think even harder about the politics of communication.

The Exhibition doesn’t just dwell on loss, it’s packed with wit and resilience. Christine and Thomas’ works, spanning film, sculpture, and interactive elements invite you to imagine new ways of understanding between signed and spoken languages. One highlight is a monumental wall spelling out I AM NOT CROSS, a clever jab at how body language and spoken words can clash, especially for those navigating both Deaf and hearing worlds. This space is for learning and feeling, you’ll find tactile QR codes and British Sign Language interpretation ensuring everyone’s included.

This isn’t your typical art show, it really is a thought-provoking, conversational gem that asks you to reconsider what language means, who gets to use it, and why that matters. Whether you’re fluent in BSL, a language lover, or just curious about the hidden histories shaping London, this Exhibition is one for your diary. Drop in before November 16 and let yourself be challenged, moved, and maybe even inspired to see communication in a whole new light.

Book tickets here - https://wellcomecollection.org

UNDISCOVERED GEMS

Take the Foodie World Tour and Save the High Street

What if you could circle the globe in a single afternoon with no passport, no jet lag, just pure flavour? On Saturday, Camberwell Green transforms into London’s hottest runway for global cuisine. The Camberwell Food Festival returns with a smorgasbord of over 80 stalls, live music, and a community spirit that’s as vibrant as the food on offer.

Camberwell’s food scene is a microcosm of London itself. It’s diverse, inventive, and fiercely independent. The Festival isn’t just a feast for your senses, it’s a lifeline for local businesses. The event champions the neighbourhood’s culinary entrepreneurs and puts small traders on centre stage. It’s also a rare chance to sample everything from Ghanaian jollof to Sicilian cannoli, all while supporting the community.

Last year there were 6,000 attendees who raved about the Eat Around the World theme that let them taste dishes from every continent. This year, the stakes are even higher, you’ll find more stalls, a new Camberwell Food Walk, think guided tasting tour with behind-the-scenes stories. Plus, there’s a digital map spotlighting over 90 local food businesses.

But while Camberwell’s food scene is booming, five essential local shops face a 143% council rent hike, therefore showing the future of our high streets hang in the balance. As you wander from stall to stall, sampling everything from bao buns to baklava, you’re not just treating your tastebuds, you’re also voting for a more vibrant, resilient London. In Camberwell, every bite is a reminder that London’s true magic lies in its hidden gems and the communities that keep them alive.

Find out more here - https://www.se5forum.org.uk

LONDON BUZZ

Olympic Ambitions — Can We Win Gold Again in 2040?

Remember the electric summer of 2012, when London’s streets pulsed with Olympic energy and the city felt like the world’s main stage? Fast forward to 2025, and Mayor Sadiq Khan is eyeing up a record-breaking fourth Games for London. He isn’t just about reliving past glories, his vision is a bold gambit to reignite London’s global allure and redefine what hosting the Games means for a modern city.

Our city’s recent sporting calendar has been a goldmine. With six major events in 2024 alone generating nearly £230 million and drawing half a million fans. Sadiq argues the economic dividend of big sport is real and that the Olympics could be the ultimate catalyst for London’s post-pandemic renaissance. By cementing London as the world’s sporting capital, it would turbocharge the economy, and inspire the next generation of athletes.

However, London faces fierce competition from cities like Riyadh and potential African bids, who are hungry for their Olympic debut. There’s no formal bid yet, and any campaign will need serious government backing and a compelling case to the International Olympic Committee. Plus, critics are asking tough questions like, can London justify the costs? Especially since the 2012 Games were sold on the promise of urban regeneration, this is a box many feel is already ticked.

Let’s remain hopeful because if London pulls this off, it could become the epicentre of global sport for decades. The Euros in 2028, World Athletics Championships in 2029 Women’s World Cup in 2035 are all leading the way to this reality. Whether the Games can unite Londoners, inspire youth, and deliver a sustainable, socially responsible festival, the real question isn’t just whether London win, but, what kind of city do we want to become by then.

LONDON SOUNDSCAPE

Crazy Coqs - May 23

Ever wondered what it would be like to experience Barbra Streisand’s wit, warmth, and vocal fireworks up close in an intimate cabaret? Steven Brinberg’s Simply Barbra returns to Crazy Coqs for a dazzling celebration of the 50th anniversary of Funny Lady. You’ll be treated to the songs, stories, and signature quirks of the greatest star herself. Steven’s tribute is an affectionate, pitch-perfect homage, complete with hilarious banter, spot-on impressions, and all of Barbra’s classics, from Don’t Rain on My Parade to People and, of course, gems from Funny Lady.

Book tickets here - https://www.brasseriezedel.com/crazy-coqs

Green Note - May 16

If you’re craving a night where groove is king and borders melt away, Jam Groove is your ticket to ride. Led by Senegalese rhythm maestros Oumar Diagne on drums and Assane Ba on bass, think Sly & Robbie, but Dakar style. This London based duo brings decades of global touring chops to the stage, having played alongside legends like Thione Seck and Fatou Guewel. Their sound is pure sunshine with deep, rolling basslines, crisp percussion, and a chemistry that’s both joyful and hypnotic, all rooted in the musical heartbeat of Dakar. You can expect a set that slides effortlessly from Afro-jazz to mbalax, drawing you in with irresistible rhythms and West African soul.

Book tickets here - https://www.greennote.co.uk

Jamboree - May 16

Take a whirlwind trip across continents and celebrate with Afro-Latin Fiesta. Headlined by Venezuelan pianist and Latin-jazz dynamo Juan Pablo Barrios and his quartet, expect a rush of originals and Latin classics, all powered by intricate melodies and dancefloor rhythms that channel the energy of South America and the Caribbean. Audio.sync Collective also join the party to deliver a genre-blending set of Afrobeat, salsa and funk. DJ Carlitos Nino promises to keep you dancing way into the night.

Book tickets here - https://www.jamboreevenue.co.uk

Nightjar Canaby - May 21

When you want your jazz with a shot of soul and a dash of backroom swagger, TJ Johnson is who you need to see. He’s the King of Dirty Jazz, Backroom Swing and Rhythm and Blues. TJ will delight you with stories channeling the grit and romance of Ray Charles, Dr John, and Nina Simone. His voice has equal amounts of velvet and gravel. Backed by some of London’s top musicians, TJ blurs the lines between jazz, blues, gospel, country, and soul. He’ll weave tales of love, loss, hope, and heartbreak with the kind of authenticity you only get from truly living life.

Book tickets here - https://www.barnightjar.com

Ronnie Scott’s - May 21

From the first note, Courtney Pine’s saxophone doesn’t just play music, it tells the story of a nation’s heartbeat. Courtney brings his acclaimed House of Legends project back to the stage, to celebrate the rich tapestry of Caribbean influence on UK culture and marking the re-release of his groundbreaking debut, Journey To The Urge Within. He’s a true pioneer, who’s spent decades breaking barriers, leading generations of British jazz talent, and earning both an OBE and CBE for his services to music. He’ll take you through an exhilarating ride through merengue, ska, mento, and calypso, all filtered through the lens of a UK-born artist with deep Afro-Caribbean roots.

Book tickets here - https://www.ronniescotts.co.uk

606 Club - May 23

Let the rhythms of Brazil sweep you away as Samara lights up the 606 Club. Join this night dedicated to the vibrant sounds of classic Música Popular Brasileira. Led by the charismatic Brazilian vocalist Carolina Lelis, and powered by Neil Angilley’s dynamic piano alongside Steve Rubie’s swinging flute, this acclaimed Latin-jazz quintet promises a musical journey from samba-soaked Rio to the sun-baked northeast, sharing the stories and infectious grooves behind Brazil’s most beloved songs. Expect an irresistible blend of samba, baião, jazz, and Latin that’s as much about dancing as it is about listening.

Book tickets here - https://www.606club.co.uk

Soul Mama - May 23 and 25

There are tributes, and then there are nights that feel like a love letter to a legend. Soul Mama transforms into a temple of groove for A Celebration of Roy Ayers led by bassist and bandleader Rick Leon James and an all-star cast of musicians. The air will vibrate with the unmistakable warmth of Roy’s jazz, funk, and soul legacy, as this ensemble reimagines classics like Everybody Loves the Sunshine and Searching with fresh artistry and deep respect. This is more than a concert, it’s a living, breathing tribute to the man who made the vibraphone sing and dance. If you want to feel the sunshine, the spirit, and the enduring joy of Roys’ music, this is the night to be part of London’s most heartfelt musical celebration.

Lose yourself in a soundscape where poetry, rhythm, and soul collide when Ibejii brings his genre-defying magic to Soul Mama. This is your invite you to experience West African storytelling as you’ve never heard it before. Fusing the earthy pulse of Nigerian percussion with global grooves and a dash of retro flair, Ibejii’s set is a journey through love, longing, and self-discovery. They’re all wrapped in his signature Afro-retro and Afro-soul style. With seven acclaimed albums under his belt and a Headies Award for Best Alternative Album, Ibejii weaves Yoruba folk, jazz, and contemporary influences into songs that feel both timeless and fresh. Expect a night where every lyric lands like a secret, every groove pulls you deeper, and every moment is a reminder that true artistry knows no borders.

Book tickets here - https://www.soulmama.co.uk

The Fox and Firkin - May 16

Ready for a night where orchestral flair meets the raw pulse of London’s underground? If yes, the Brixton Chamber Orchestra is ready to storm the Fox and Firkin stage. They’re tearing up the rulebook with a set that fuses classical precision with the swagger of grime, hip hop, jazz, and funk. Imagine a string section dropping into a dubstep groove, or brass blazing through garage anthems, all under the glow of Lewisham’s most eclectic venue. With DJ Dubba Dutch and Sedge joining the bill, you can expect the dancefloor to ignite as symphonic beats collide with D’n’B and beyond.

Book tickets here - https://foxfirkin.com

The Jazz Cafe - May 17

Step into The Jazz Cafe and you’ll feel Osibisa’s pulse as they criss-cross rhythms that explode with happiness that’s a reflection of a living, breathing celebration of African, Caribbean, and British musical heritage. These Afro-rock trailblazers, led by the legendary Teddy Osei, are the band that first brought the infectious rhythms of Ghanaian highlife and the swagger of funk, jazz, and rock to the UK mainstream. Remember Sunshine Day and Music For Gong Gong blasting through the speakers? Let Osibisa take you back in time to enjoy their uplifting grooves and party atmosphere, uniting generations and cultures in a single, irresistible beat.

Book tickets here - https://thejazzcafe.com

The Lower Thirds - May 17

Embrace Dave Nunes’ sonic world when he makes his London headline debut. He’s excited to treat you to a collision of Afro grooves, hip hop swagger, and soulful melodies. Hailing from the Netherlands with Dutch, Surinamese, and Antillean roots, Dave has built a reputation for musical wizardry, fusing amapiano, electronic, and Latin American sounds into tracks that feel both global and unmistakably fresh. His productions, like Bad Amapiano and Diaspora, have caught the ears of tastemakers from Diplo to Skrillex. Enjoy this eclectic set.

Book tickets here - https://thelowerthird.co.uk

BUSINESS SCENE

Urban Fete Fuses Creative and Community Spirits

The Urban Village Fete returns to Greenwich Peninsula on May 18, marking its milestone 10th edition as one of London’s most dynamic showcases for small business, creativity, and community spirit. What started in 2014 as a fresh twist on the classic village fair has blossomed into a powerhouse platform for independent brands and entrepreneurs. So far it has drawn over 180,000 visitors since 2014 and has generated more than £1.5 million in revenue for over 400 local businesses. This year, with an expected crowd of up to 25,000, the Fete cements its reputation as a launchpad for makers, designers, and food innovators eager to connect with London’s culturally curious crowd.

At its heart, the Urban Village Fete is a living marketplace where business meets creativity. More than 30 of the capital’s finest food and drink producers will tempt you with everything from Yorkshire burritos and Moroccan street food to vegan Gujarati curries and authentic Spanish paella. You’ll have the chance to browse 32 independent designers, including a pop-up from Charity Super.Mkt, alongside workshops in everything from nail art to upcycling and bamboo basket weaving. For many traders, it’s a rare chance to test new products, build loyal followings, and get real-time feedback from a diverse, engaged audience.

The Fete is more than a shopping spree, it’s a masterclass in creative entrepreneurship. Listen into Design District Creative Conversations, hosted by BBC Radio’s Robert Elms. Dive into the future of fashion, education, and collaboration, while hands-on workshops allow you to try your hand at everything from pottery to making kimchi. The inclusive spirit is palpable, with family activities, live performances, and headline DJ sets from names like Gilles Peterson and Touching Bass. All of this ensures the day is as much about inspiration and connection, as it is about commerce.

Whether you’re a foodie, a design lover, or an entrepreneur on the rise, this is your invitation to see firsthand how independent business can thrive when creativity and collaboration are prioritised.

Find out more here - https://www.greenwichpeninsula.co.uk

LINGUISTIC TAPESTRY - WORDS OF THE WEEK 

English Word:
Marlinspike
Pronunciation: /ˈmɑːrlɪnˌspaɪk/
Definition: A pointed metal tool used by sailors for splicing rope, untying knots, and working with cordage.
Cultural Note: The marlinspike has become a symbol of maritime craftsmanship and is often referenced in sailor folklore and sea shanties, reflecting the deep-rooted traditions of seafaring cultures.

Ghanaian Word:
Akwaaba
Pronunciation: /ah-kwah-bah/
Definition:  A word meaning welcome, used to greet visitors and express hospitality in Akan-speaking regions of Ghana.
Cultural Note: Akwaaba is more than just a greeting, it embodies the Ghanaian spirit of warmth, openness, and community.

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