For many in the art world, October is synonymous with Frieze London - widely considered the world's preeminent contemporary art fair. Usually held back-to-back with FIAC Paris, the fair arrives a full week earlier due to the Jewish holidays, with many galleries opting for London over Paris this year. The 15th edition of Frieze London and the fifth edition of its Frieze Masters, expect exciting works on display by Americans Richard Serra and Jeff Koons, new works by John Baldessari and William Kentridge, as well as Alex Katz, Arnulf Rainer, Daniel Richter, Georg Baselitz, Robert Longo, Robert Rauschenberg, and Sigmar Polke. <br><br>While property prices continue to boom in the UK, new hotel openings have somewhat subsided in the last year. In terms of proximity, Chiltern Firehouse offers an ideal crash pad almost walking distance to the fair with cozy-chic interiors, period architectural details and be-seen restaurant still flashing on the paparazzi circuit. In terms of suites, The Berkeley debuts an all-new selection of signature suites with dramatic glass terraces, contemporary art and bespoke urban decor designed by John Heah – not to mention exclusive access to 2-star Michelin Marcus in the lobby. For something altogether edgier, take in the emerging scene of the Southbank at the nautical Mondrian at Sea Containers with interiors penned by Tom Dixon. <br><br>In terms of eating at Frieze, 34 Mayfair will host the fair's exclusive VIP Room, while both Locanda Locatelli and Petersham Nurseries return for another year. Around town, new restaurants continue to sprout up with confidence along the Southbank like Padella with casual counter setting and bespoke, handmade pasta. Soho House is still roaring from its Dean Street location while Greek Street gets a full refurbishment. Non-members can also find the brand's new, open-to-the-public CafĂ© Monico that's a French-Italian brasserie ala Cecconi's along London's Shaftesbury Avenue. Other must-try eateries this festival season include Paris-import Frenchie, Eneko at One Aldwych and Sosharu - the new Japanese-style Izakaya concept eatery by Jason Atherton.
