Ahead of the independent GALA Festival – Sunday May 26 on Peckham Rye – founder and long time club promoter Jonny Edwards gives us some of his favourite London spots.
What's your all time favourite club?
Probably the original Mint Club. I’ve been going there since around 2007 and I’ve just got back from the closing party over the weekend. Looking further afield, it’s hard to look past Panorama Bar. Robert Johnson – Frankfurt is on the hit list for this summer.
And club night?
South London Soul Train is always good fun if I’m out in Peckham. The Bussey Building also has a real DIY feel which I love. We’ll be holding the GALA after party this year there.
What are you listening to right now?
Right this second i’m listening to Harvey Sutherland, he’s someone who played live at GALA 2017. Although it rained consistently through his set, he smashed it and held a massive crowd, even in the downpour.
What’s your favourite London restaurant?
Somewhere I could go twice a month is Smokestak – their brisket bun and crispy ox cheek with anchovy mayo are both 10/10. It’s also conveniently close to the office! I also love The Barbary; their pata negra neck is equally banging.
Can you recommend a hidden gem London we might not know about?
If you know me you’ll know i’m addicted to curry. Mirch Masala in Tooting is my Sunday evening go-to. You have to get a mixed grill to start and then just enough curry to last you the next few days.
And for GALA Festival, anywhere close by that we should check out? Restaurant, bar, shop?
Peckham’s got some amazing things going for it, including its pub scene. Somewhere we often end up having a pint after a long day on site is The Rye, right on the park. It’s got a great beer garden and on a hot summer’s evening the pub seems to just spill out on the street.
GALA Festival is Sunday May 26th on Peckham Rye. Get tickets now.
