Porthole Clock

Porthole Clock

London’s More Unusual Dining Out

what is it with the summer and eating out? When the sun is shining, any and every place with even the most cursory outside seating, be it on pavement, traffic island or cliff-top precipice, will be packed from 6 o’clock onwards, and you have to sweat it out in the almost certainly non-air-conditioned, gloomy interior. But hey, it’s autumn and we can retreat indoors and grab back some elbow room. We’ve listed a selection of places so cool, so weird, so out there, that the inside is now back in.

So it’s cold, it’s raining (again), and all you feel like doing is curling up in front of a roaring fire with some yummy food. But you have central heating (so not the same). Luckily, there’s always Firevault, where there are more roaring fires than you can shake a poker at. It’s a fireplace showroom with handy restaurant attached -- although we are curious as to the numbers of people who, having dined, walk out with a fireplace under their arm -- serving a standard, but well-executed menu. Seared beef and rocket salad; wild mushroom pappardelle with truffle oil; lamb shanks with ratatouille and polenta chips all feature. The surprise is the wine list, which verges on the eclectic – it’s grouped by grape, so you have to have a little bit of knowledge, but a well-chosen mix of Old and New World at some nice prices. It’s a set price menu - £22.95/£27.95 for 2 or 3 courses respectively, which isn’t bad for Oxford Street. If you don’t fancy a full on meal, but you still want to dry off, there is a cocktail bar with a bar menu featuring antipasti and sushi options for a quick bite.

On the other hand, you may be relishing the chilly nip outside, and long for those days when you can layer up, sling on a hat and scarf and take brisk walks through the park. Well, get out your thermals, because Absolut Icebar and accompanying restaurant Below Zero (pictured on home page) are right up your street. The bar is London’s first permanent icebar, constructed entirely from imported Swedish ice, newly reconstructed every 6 months, and with an internal temperature of around about –5°C. Cold enough for you? There are maximum time slots of 40 minutes, and you will need the thermal cape provided at the entrance. After you’ve frozen your noddle off at the bar, make your way to the next door restaurant and lounge to discover the use of your hands again. The food is classed as Modern European, but with a range of dishes served on ice (but of course), tasting plates to share, an à la carte menu featuring steamed mussels with chorizo, or baby wild mushrooms in filo pastry with honeyed onions; a seafood grill and great platters of cured meats and smoked fish, continuing the Scandinavian theme. The prices can reach infamous Scandinavian heights too, with starters beginning at the £7 mark, so don’t get too carried away with the vodka.

Alternatively, you may be of a more nautical frame of mind, in which case, we have a couple of suggestions. The Lobster Pot in Kennington is the most oddly situated (Kennington - why?), yet quirkily charming places to eat seafood in the whole of London. Chef-proprietor Hervé Regent, cheerily gallic in his striped shirt, has created a cool two-storey restaurant, accurately replicating the insides of a lurching galleon. Eat downstairs for the full effect, including sloping floors (do not, on any account, overdo the Muscadet, although one could argue, would you notice if you did?), and little portholes through which, disarmingly, fish swim by. The stunning fish and shellfish are all purchased fresh each day, and so the menu depends on what Hervé could bring home. The wine is mostly French but stick with the aforementioned Muscadet for the best match. Prices depend on what fish was caught, so they are market-driven.

Ok, so there’s one place left in London which takes originality to new heights; whose very purpose in life is to push boundaries, confuse and delight people; and then, just when you’re thinking you’ve got it sussed, change it all again just for the heck of it. We’re talking the granddaddy of them all – Sketch. It’s worth devoting a bit of time to this place, as there are a myriad of restaurants within restaurants, all doing different things at different times, and who knows what’s in there? To sum up quickly, it’s all contained, like the mother of all Russian dolls, in an 18th-century townhouse in central London, and run by Mourad Mazouz in consultation with Pierre Gagnaire. Let’s begin with the Parlour. This was refurbished quite soon after first opening, so now it’s a slightly dark, deeply eccentric, um, parlour – all bronzed walls and animal heads, made out of Perspex, and plush, individually upholstered furniture. It is open from breakfast to afternoon tea, and in the evenings becomes a private bar. The food is a modern take on the classics, so you might have coconut and tomato marmalade with your eggs and bacon. Afternoon tea is a smashing selection of glorious cakes and pastries, fabulously decadent, and rivalling anything from the grand old-school hotels. The Gallery is a huge space, so full of things to distract your attention that it might be worth going on your own. Think brilliant white walls with constantly changing video animations projected onto them; incredibly funky stylish furniture to hold onto while your head swivels; and a dinner menu to then rivet your attention firmly on your plate. Open only in the evenings, this buzzy, modern, vibrant place is full of the new bright young things, so book early. The French-oriented food is extravagant, as you would expect, with prices to match, but it’s worth it. Options worth splashing out on include lamb with beetroot cake, prunes and hazelnuts; or gnocchi with scents of Costa Rica and dried ceps.

The Glade is a glimpse of the pastoral in central London, a respite from the giddy whirl, if you will. Kind of woodland-inspired with a great tree-shaped chandelier and grass carpets, it’s a daytime-only venue. The menu isn’t any more traditional than the surroundings: divided into ingredient sections like eggs, meat, fish, cheese, etc, and the poetic sounding portions are more along the lines of a grazing menu, so you can opt for (and pay for) as much as you want, without feeling restricted by normal menu constraints. ‘Hommage à M. L'Ambassadeur, 33 Faubourg St Honoré’ - basmati rice pilaff with green peas, salmon, fried duck egg, salmon roe, hazelnut, grape, and sansho pepper is a case in point.

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Weems Plath 312400 Porthole Desk Clock $94.89 This nautical style porthole desk clock is inset in solid American hardwood that has a mahogany finish and a scratch resistant sole. The polished brass finish of the quartz clock will never tarnish. It is perfect for the home or office and has a lifetime warranty. An engraveable brass plate for personalization is included. 6.5 H x 4.4W x 2.75 D

Porthole $29.99 Harley Lever Porthole - Photographic Print

New Haven Cold Cast Bronze Porthole Nautical Clock $116 -This 11-inch Port Hole Clock with sailing boat face features a brass quartz clock in a coldcast bronze porthole case. -Coldcast bronze has a real layer of Bronze on a bonded stone and resin composite. -Water proof

Kirch N90611B New Haven Cold Cast Bronze Porthole Nautical Clock $75.47 This 11inch Port Hole Clock with sailing boat Face features a brass quartz clock in a coldcast bronze porthole case. It will add a classic nautical touch to whatever room it is placed in and is a must have for those who appreciate high quality nautical decor. It makes a wonderful gift is an impressive decoration and will be admired by all those who love the sea. Features:. 11 Inch Port Hole Clock with sailing boat Face. Features a brass quartz clock in a solid coldcast bronze case. Will add a classic nautical touch to whatever room it is placed in and is a must have for those who appreciate high quality nautical decor. Coldcast bronze has a real layer of Bronze on a bonded stone and resin composite. Water proof can be used for both indoor and outdoor.

Weems Plath 313300 Porthole Desk Set $135.19 The Porthole Desk Set includes a clock and barometer that are set into a mahogany finish base made from solid North American hard wood. The polished brass finish is tarnish free and never scratch. There is an indentation in the wood base for a pen and rubber feet under the base to protect the desk or shelf. Battery and brass plate suitable for engraving are included. This product has a lifetime warranty. 101/4 W x 2 H. 51/4 D.

Brass Nautical Charm Solid Brass Porthole Clock w/Weather Station $411 Solid brass bezelsolid oak wood constructionSeiko clock mechanismthermometer and hygrometer made in France - One - AA Battery Not Included

Cabin Porthole Mirror $134 Cabin Porthole Mirror features solid brass finish.

Porthole Magazine $19.95 Porthole magazine brings readers a view of the sea and beyond. Porthole provides more than cruise and travel information. Lifestyles, arts and entertainment, fine cuisine, book reviews, interviews and more abound in each and every colorful, glossy issue.Porthole Magazine is part of the Travel family of magazines. It is generally sold to individuals and businesses and quite often can be found in a reception room or waiting room of a company or a professional office like a dentist, doctor, health club, gym, or beauty and hair salon. A full year magazine subscription to Porthole Magazine includes issues delivered right to your mailbox.

Weems Plath 312800 Porthole 3 Instrument Plaque $168.99 This three instrument plaque includes a quartz clock barometer and comfortmeter (thermometer/hygrometer) inset in solid hard wood with mahogany finish that can be wall mounted or stand free on a desk or shelf. The highly polished brass finished instruments will never tarnish or discolor. An engraveable brass plate mounting hardware and a lifetime warranty are provided. Dial: 21/2 . Base: 141/2 W x 6 H.

Porthole Cut-Outs Dozen $8.99 Our Porthole Cut-Outs will make it appear that you are peering out a window of a cruse ship to the wide open sea. The Porthole Cut-Outs measure 16 inches in diameter each and are made from a heavy paper. Attach several Porthole Cut-Outs to a wall to give the impression of a seafaring ship!

David King & Co. Porthole Briefcase $85.05 Porthole Briefcase Type: Attache Cases Color: Cafe Color Mapping: Brown

Lounge Porthole Mirror $219 Lounge Porthole Mirror features solid brass finish and the luxury appeal of an upper deck stateroom. This item does not come with mounting hardware or hooks.

Pearl Porthole Shaker Earrings $160 The pearl porthole shaker earrings are a creative way to sport classic pearls. The round 18k gold vermeil branch drops are designed with dozens of tiny Keishi pearls contained behind glass. The ear wires are for pierced ears.

Pearl Porthole Ring $175 The pearl porthole ring is a fun, yet classic piece. You’ll love the way the dozens of loose Keishi pearls shimmy and shake behind the glass. The branch textured setting is crafted of 18k gold vermeil.

Clava Executive Porthole Flap Briefcase $480 Executive Porthole Flap Briefcase Type: Attache Cases Color: Bridle Black Color Mapping: Black

Porthole Wall Graphic Set/3 $14.99 Party guests will feel like they're really at sea with our Removable Wall Graphic! The Porthole Removable Wall Graphic includes a 16" porthole design. Our Removable Wall Graphic's are printed on vinyl and have a sticky back so they can hang on smooth surfaces. Plus, repositioning them is easy so they can be used over and over again for up to one year. Not recommended for use on windows.

View Through Porthole Window in the Nauset Lighthouse $39.99 Darlyne A. Murawski View Through Porthole Window in the Nauset Lighthouse - Photographic Print

Detail of Porthole Windows on Wooden Surface of Sailboat $29.99 Detail of Porthole Windows on Wooden Surface of Sailboat - Photographic Print

The Clock $12.49 The Clock

Porthole Pendant $358 For an out-of-this-world look, this American-made pendant can�t be beat. Its distinctive design is crafted of steel in a rosewood finish with a powder coated clear coat for ultimate durability. Unique blue accents pair with cloud glass to finish the piece with a fun flair. This funky piece is sure to spark conversation. Please note that it includes 3� of chain.

Porthole Cabinet $1964 Hand-built and hand-finished in a unique process inspired by our favorite French furniture antiques. The result is a beautiful and irresistible piece in rich honey and deep trim colors. Most pieces have antiqued brass hardware that lasts for generations. An antique in the making.

David King Distressed Leather Porthole Briefcase - Brown $154.95 This David King Distressed Leather Porthole Briefcase is extremely durable and long lasting with its Vacquetta Leather. This briefcase is sure to fit every person's style. This porthole briefcase features a flapover entry with a porthole handle, front open pocket with a large open pocket, pen loops and card pockets and a back zip pocket.

Porthole Athletic Mesh Burgundy $3.98 Since you've got all the right moves on the court, it is only right that your athletic wear looks as good as your game when all eyes are on you! Well problem solved with this porthole mesh fabric. It is ultra comfortable and breathable and has no significant stretch. This versatile fabric can be used for sports team apparel and beach and laundry bags. Fabric has a sheen.

Porthole Athletic Mesh Orange $3.98 Since you've got all the right moves on the court, it is only right that your athletic wear looks as good as your game when all eyes are on you! Well problem solved with this porthole mesh fabric. It is ultra comfortable and breathable and has no significant stretch. This versatile fabric can be used for sports team apparel and beach and laundry bags. Fabric has a sheen.

Porthole Athletic Mesh Royal $3.98 Since you've got all the right moves on the court, it is only right that your athletic wear looks as good as your game when all eyes are on you! Well problem solved with this porthole mesh fabric. It is ultra comfortable and breathable and has no significant stretch. This versatile fabric can be used for sports team apparel and beach and laundry bags. Fabric has a sheen.

Porthole Athletic Mesh Green $3.98 Since you've got all the right moves on the court, it is only right that your athletic wear looks as good as your game when all eyes are on you! Well problem solved with this porthole mesh fabric. It is ultra comfortable and breathable and has no significant stretch. This versatile fabric can be used for sports team apparel and beach and laundry bags. Fabric has a sheen.

Porthole Athletic Mesh Red $3.98 Since you've got all the right moves on the court, it is only right that your athletic wear looks as good as your game when all eyes are on you! Well problem solved with this porthole mesh fabric. It is ultra comfortable and breathable and has no significant stretch. This versatile fabric can be used for sports team apparel and beach and laundry bags. Fabric has a sheen.

Traditional Accents 6050193 Porthole Mirror $100 Porthole Mirror by Traditional Accents 6050193. The Porthole Mirror by Traditional Accents is a classic design for most decors and nautical themes. Made of die cast resin and glass.SpecificationThis item includes:BS-6050193 Porthole Mirror 21 1/4 dia. x 1 3/4dPlease refer to the Specifications to determine what items are included since sometimes the image shows more or less items. If you are not sure, please contact us and our customer service will be glad to help.

Sunken Ship Porthole Cutout(Pack Of 216) $263 Sunken ship porthole cutout. Printed on two sides. Size: 14amp;frac12;. Made in usa....

Peel 'N Place Cruise Ship Porthole $1.99 Peel 'N Place Cruise Ship Porthole measures approximately 10.5" wide x 10.25" high.

David King Leather Luggage Porthole Computer Briefcase $159.95 David King Leather Luggage Porthole Computer Briefcase Type: Garment/Accessory Bags Color: Black

A Porthole Provides a Brass Frame for a Passing Sailboat $39.99 Stephen St. John A Porthole Provides a Brass Frame for a Passing Sailboat - Photographic Print

Light Pours in Through Porthole Windows on a Sunken Boat $39.99 Raul Touzon Light Pours in Through Porthole Windows on a Sunken Boat - Photographic Print

Islands Seem from Star Clipper Porthole, Tortola $19.99 Holger Leue Islands Seem from Star Clipper Porthole, Tortola - Photographic Print