What we're reading:
- Taco Bell confirm opening dates for first London restaurants since 1986.
- Raunchy guide to Victorian London's secret brothels discovered.
- Tate Britain to hold major Van Gogh exhibition in 2019.
- Revealed: London is supercar capital of the world.
- London violent crime could take a generation to solve.
Things to do:
SHROUDS OF THE SOMME: See Rob Heard's monumental art installation in tribute to the 72,000 British and Commonwealth soldiers killed at the Battle of the Somme who were never recovered. It's been installed to tie in with the centenary of the end of the first world war. Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park (Stratford), free, just turn up, 10am-7pm (until 18 November)
SEEDLIP GENERAL STORE: Non-alcoholic drinks brand Seedlip is launching a pop-up bar and shop for six weeks, opening today. It's creating cocktails at the bar and stocking gifts and treats without the chance of a sore head in the store. 71 Duke Street (Marylebone), free entry, just turn up, 10am-7pm
STREET SERVICE: Stand in solidarity for those on the streets at St Martin in the Fields' annual service of commemoration for those who've passed away while homeless this year. A sombre yet heartwarming tribute comes from Streetwise Opera and the Choir with No Name. St Martin in the Fields (Trafalgar Square), free, just turn up, 11am
MONEY MONEY MONEY: Join Professor Richard Burridge to consider if cash really is the god of capitalism as he delves into religious teachings to see how ancient texts square with the likes of Brexit, alcohol, sustainability and defence. Barnard's Inn Hall (Holborn), free, just turn up, 1pm-2pm
CURATOR'S TALK: Hear from curator Dr Kathrin Pieren as she talks through the current exhibition on Kindertransport at the Jewish Museum. Offering revealing stories of the refugees involved, it's a rare insight into the children's extraordinary escape from occupied Europe. Jewish Museum (Camden), free, book ahead, 3pm-3.30pm
CHRISTMAS IN CARNABY: The lights may already be on in Carnaby, but Christmas officially launches in the area tonight, at the Carnaby Christmas Shopping Party. It's a chance to see those Bohemian Rhapsody lights, peek inside the Queen-themed pop-up shop, and take advantage of discounts, special offers and events at shops, restaurants and bars throughout the area. Carnaby, free, book ahead, 5pm-9pm. See when the rest of London's Christmas lights are switched on.
SHAKEN NOT STIRRED: The folks behind The Espresso Martini Society are back, bringing a twenty-strong menu of tasty variations on the classic, from The After Eight to The Randy Brandy. Head to the pop-up to sample delicious drinks where James Bond gets crossed with caffeinated Christmas. 42 Hanbury Street (Shoreditch), £10, book ahead, 5.30pm-7pm
MONSTER MASH: Mould monstrous models at this papier-mache masterclass. Everything is provided, so settle in over a few drinks from the bar and get creative. Drink, Shop & Do (King's Cross), free, just turn up, 6pm-10pm
ANTI-TINDER DATING: Leave your phone at home to create your own love story the good old fashioned way, in a Dalston laundrette, eating tacos. You never know, you may leave with a great story to tell the grandkids! Strictly for singles. The Rainbow Laundrette (Dalston), £39.50, book ahead, 7pm-10.30pm
NICE 'N' SPIKY: Head to Poplar Union for a triple whammy of comedy talent from Nice 'n' Spiky, featuring Tez Ilyas, Lou Sanders and Mark Dolan. Poplar Union, £7-£10, book ahead, 7.30pm-10pm
SIR RICHARD BISHOP: Enjoy a night of experimental guitar from one half of Sun City Girls, the seasoned musicians behind over 50 albums. Sir Richard Bishop brings you improvisations blending influences from India, the Middle East and North Africa for a unique and incredibly slick world sound. Bethnal Green Working Men's Club, £11, book ahead, 7.30pm-11pm
Good cause of the day
Book tickets for an enchanting matinee concert on 29 November featuring Christmas Carols from infant school choirs around the UK to raise money for children's charity, Barnardo's. The concert runs from 2pm at Southwark Cathedral.
