Design Hotspot: Moroccan Sky Riad at The Gherkin

There is still time to visit the Gherkin's pop-up restaurant before it reverts to members only
Riad vibe: Searcy's The Gherkin has been transformed into a Moroccan themed eatery
Amira Hashish27 August 2015

Access to Searcy’s The Gherkin is usually restricted to members only but the restaurant opened its doors to the public this summer and there is still time to visit. The bar and eatery, which has been transformed into the Moroccan Sky Riad pop-up, has bookings available until September 5. Here is what to expect...

The bar: The Level 40 Bar has been temporarily transformed into a luxurious North African retreat with draped fabric, velvet cushions, wooden tables and rich purple and orange tones capturing the vibe of a riad. While the designers behind the pop-up have taken inspiration from the souks and bazaars of Morocco, they have recreated the look in a fairly subtle way. The atmosphere is exclusive but comfortable and on select nights belly dancers and live music provide entertainment that is in keeping with the theme.

Designers behind the pop-up have taken inspiration from souks and bazaars 

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For a true VIP experience, Sultan beds and Gem Booths are available to hire for groups of four to eight. As the bar is located in the very heart of the city and perched 180 meters in the sky, the 360 degree views are magnificent. The glass domed ceiling floods natural light into the space by day and creates a dreamy atmosphere at night.

Taste the difference: a Moroccan twist on afternoon tea is available

The restaurant: London has some great sky-high restaurants with uninterrupted views but there is something special about Level 39. Watching the sun set and London’s streets light up by night from this spot is almost surreal. In keeping with the bar’s transformation, the restaurant is offering a specially designed tasting menu that aims to capture the Moroccan dining experience. The Taste of Spice consists of five delicious courses that have been carefully selected to introduce authentic flavours in a modern and elegant way. Some highlights include the Black Bream, Mint Tea, Argan, Fig & Saffron course, which is light and fragrant, and the Lamb Cannon with Chickpea, Prune, Couscous & Lemon Cumin Jus which is succulent and flavoursome but not overpowering.

Iconic sights: incredible views make for a wonderful backdrop

The dining experience can be enhanced by opting to pair each course with matching wine. A lot of care has been taken to select wines (four white, one red) which have distinct flavours and work nicely alongside each course. The tasting menu is available for lunch and dinner. Alternatively, the Afternoon Mezze offers a twist on the traditional Afternoon Tea.

A guide to London's design hotspots

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Go there if...you are keen to enjoy unusual and interesting flavours in an iconic London landmark with spectacular views. As it is only open to the public for a limited time the experience feels all the more special but it is worth booking before slots are filled.

Cheque out: The Art of Spice tasting menu costs £59pp / £114pp with matching wines. Traditional Tea Mezze from £35pp. Bar packages from £45.

Night tales: a magical outlook enhances the dining experience

How do I book? Visit searcysthegherkin.co.uk or call 020 7071 5025.

Nearest tube: Liverpool Street.

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