Benugo Bar at the BFI

The Benugo Bar at the BFI is one of London’s best kept secrets, it's upstairs from the riverfront cafe.

This venue caters for everyone with wholesome roasts on offer for family lunches, or cocktails for evenings with friends. Many of my chums seem to choose it as a meeting place for those nervous first dates. Everyone loves hanging out on the Southbank, but in the winter months it’s not as fun to sit on the chilly benches... Benugo is the perfect alternative.

The place is filled with shabby chic mismatched furniture, and everyone from businessmen to scruffy artists, the atmosphere is friendly and yet there is an intellectual feel. I went to Benugo Bar with my best friend for an early evening drink and catch-up last weekend . We drank: cloudy lemonade, we ate: delicious handmade chips.

The Riverside in Hammersmith

The Riverside in Hammersmith has always got something new and exciting going on. The theatre 'aims to be London's pre-eminent space for risk, inspiration and creativity', and from my experience it succeeds in this mission tremendously.

The Riverside boasts many other wonderful assets too. The comfortable cafe/bar is situated in the centre of the building and is a lively and friendly place to sit pre or post show. My favourite thing about the Riverside is the river terrace that can be found hiding at the back of the building. Here they offer delicious food and an impressive view to accompany your meal. If you don't wish to eat you can perch on the wall and sit at the river's edge. My friend and I sat here for a while before the show, with the beautiful sunset and rippling water surrounding us, it was quite spectacular.

We went to see Hens, the third play in Sky Arts Playhouse: Live season. A very enjoyable show in a great space.

In July the Riverside brings us previews of the best of this year's Edinburgh Fringe Festival. With nearly 30 preview shows to choose from, there is sure to be something for everyone.

http://www.riversidestudios.co.uk/