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From botanical gardens to nature parks

Less than one hour from Philadelphia is a lush region of Pennsylvania widely regarded as America’s Garden Capital. The prime attraction is Longwood Gardens. It is one of the largest botanical gardens in the United States and draws millions of visitors each year.

With over 1,077 acres of designer gardens, open meadows and woodlands, this is a horticultural wonder of the world. The botanical garden is so vast, that it is divided into six distinct districts. My recommendation is to head there in the evenings to catch the Illuminated Fountain Performances. And focusing on the conservatory district and the main fountain garden district.

With its 19th-century architecture, the conservatory is considered the crown jewel of Longwood Gardens. You might observe delicate bonsais that have been trained to elegant shapes for over 100 years. They currently have a Chrysanthemum Festival that celebrates the arrival of fall. The dazzling arrangements would make even Marie Antoinette at the Palace of Versailles green with envy.

Their Illuminated Fountain Performances are accompanied by a varied playlist ranging from Madonna to the magic of Mozart. It is a 30-minute show that illuminates the skyline with infinite colours and energetic jets of water that pierce the night sky.

A nature park to consider visiting is Valley Forge National Historical Park. It is under 45 minutes away from Longwood Gardens. The park has over 3,500 acres of meadows and woodlands but more importantly numerous historical monuments.

It was the encampment site of the Continental Army during the winter of 1777-1778. It is widely regarded as the birthplace of the modern US Army. You can visit the headquarters of General George Washington and learn how they ultimately defeated the British army.

They have numerous hiking trails to cater for all levels. Biking or trolley tours are also options. Whilst you can even drive your car around the park on a self-guided audio tour.

Countryside culture

UK and European tourists might not have heard of John James Audubon, but a visit to the eponymous center will enlighten you about his undoubted importance. His crowning glory was completing the book, Birds of America. It captures 453 life-sized paintings of North American birds with remarkable colours and vibrancy.

At the museum at Mill Grove, there are countless interactive displays to learn about the habitat, nest, and conservation of native birds.
You can enter a sound forest to hear bird songs in different habitats. And you can use a magnifier to examine different bird feathers up close.

You can see a treasured early edition of the Double Elephant Folio of The Birds of America. You can also view the original copper plate that Audubon used to produce his bird print.

What the museum does very well is not to shy away from the controversy of John James Audubon. There is a section explaining that he was a slave owner, spoke out against emancipation, and killed plenty of birds whilst also contributing to the conservation of birds.

One of the finest museums in the United States is the Brandywine Museum of Art. It has an unparalleled collection of Wyeth and American art. N.C. Wyeth House & Studio Tour is the best way to understand why the Wyeth family has contributed so much to American art.

You’ll learn how N.C. Wyeth found fame from his illustrations of The Last of the Mohicans (1826) and Treasure Island (1883). His son, Andrew found even greater success as a realist painter with masterpieces like Christina’s World. The studio has maintained much of its original character, as your guide will explain how the lighting and the painting ladder helped with N.C.’s work.

In the museum, you’ll find numerous fascinating non-Wyeth masterpieces such as Sugaring Off, Maple by Grandma Moses. She is famously a self-taught artist who started her painting career at the age of 78.

The best places to dine out

Local produce is the key in this region. At Kennett Square near Longwood Gardens, they are the self-proclaimed mushroom capital of the world. Around 50% of America’s mushrooms grow in the vicinity of Kennett Square.

The best restaurant in Kennett Square is unsurprisingly called Portabellos. The restaurant has been run by husband and wife team, Brett Hulbert and Sandra Morris for the last 10 years.

Their signature roasted mushroom soup is incredibly popular with locals. The addition of Madeira wine adds extra complexity to the flavours. Local mushrooms make a guest appearance in a significant number of dishes from their lobster ravioli to their veal forestier.

Finish off your meal nearby at La Michoacana. Their popular homemade ice cream has even drawn visits from President Biden. They have unusual flavours like avocado and cotton candy.

Another restaurant to consider is Founding Farmers at King of Prussia. Their USP is they source all their ingredients and make everything from scratch. This includes their bread to their beers. They have active recycling and composting programs that divert around 90% of their waste from landfills.

The restaurant is at 6 locations on the East Coast and is majority owned by American family farmers. They offer a 5% wellness charge that ensures staff have free mental health resources, access to health insurance and paid sick leave etc.

Their signature dishes include American classics like Yankee pot roast and shrimp & grits. However, their most popular offering is their decadent weekend brunch. They offer a generous carving station filled with the likes of herb-crusted roasted turkey and molasses-glazed ham. And before your meal, make sure you check out the spacious King of Prussia Mall. It is the third-largest shopping mall in the country.

Where to stay

For Valley Forge, I would recommend staying at Tru by Hilton Audubon Valley Forge. It is a casual and welcoming hotel. It is within a short driving distance to key sites like Valley Forge National Historical Park and John James Audubon center. Unusually for American hotels, they offer a complimentary breakfast too.

For Kennett Square, I would recommend staying at the Inn at Whitewing Farm. It is a charming family-run farmhouse hotel. They have 10 romantic guest rooms and suites surrounded by immaculately-maintained grounds. They are situated minutes away from Longwood Gardens.

For more information on the region, please visit –

https://www.brandywinevalley.com/

Have you ever had to stay 48 hours (or less) in a city – on purpose? I’m not talking about layovers where you manage to sleep on hard plastic chairs because there is no airport lounge open in the wee hours of the morning.

Due to flight schedules, I found myself with a mere 48 hours (technically it was 35 hours) in London in early September. I welcomed the short time in the city, as I have not visited since March 2020. Clearly, I needed to make the best of my time and being that this was my 5th time to the UK capital, I was not queuing up to go to the London Eye.

How does one spend a short time in London? Here are my suggestions to help manage your time well.

Stay:

Choose one property, in one central area, near transit. Thanks to the Tube, its’ all very accessible. Yet depending upon the airport in which you land (Heathrow or Gatwick), you can guarantee an hour (or depending upon traffic) more has gone by.

My area of choice for this trip was the Mayfair/Kensington/Soho area, which is the fanciest area in London that I have ever stayed in. You really can’t go wrong as there are so many great boroughs in London, each with their own highlights. There is no need to travel across the city to only spend an hour or so to get back.

My wonderful, but short stay was at the COMO Metropolitan London just off the landmark Hyde Park Corner. If you have ever played the original version of Monopoly – you will know the address, its Park Lane. Conveniently, Bond Street, Belgravia, Knightsbridge and Piccadilly are within easy walking distance.

There are 144 rooms and suites, as well as 19 long-stay apartments. Additional amenities include Nobu for Japanese-Peruvian cuisine and COMO Shambhala Urban Escape for Asian-inspired therapies. At COMO Shambhala Urban Escape, Guests can indulge in award-winning wellness treatments such as facials, massages, and acupuncture. There is also an onsite steam room and 24-hour fitness center, where personal trainers are available upon request. Barring my time limit, I would have visited the Shambhala Urban Escape.

Should you have any questions about an itinerary, the concierge is happy to answer questions and help plan your stay. The helpful concierge was able to secure two tickets to the Victoria Albert Museum’s DIVA exhibit, which was already sold out for the Saturday afternoon.

When I awoke from my restful slumber (Sadly, I had to pull myself out of the comfortable bed for my flight) I was served the most delicious breakfast in record speed. The coffee was strong, the hash browns were crunchy and the omelette had everything I requested. In 30 minutes, I had left the hotel and was whisked away back to Heathrow.

Activities/ Eats:

Perhaps you are jet lagged and tired, and all you really want to do is close the dark-out blinds and hibernate with room service. Fight the urge. The city is calling your name to explore.

South of Hyde Park is the Victoria Albert Museum (V & A South Kensington). The V&A is the world’s leading museum of art and design, housing a permanent collection of over 2.8 million objects, books and archives that span over 5,000 years of human creativity. The museum holds many of the UK’s national collections and houses some of the greatest resources for the study of architecture, furniture, fashion, textiles, photography, sculpture, painting, jewellery, glass, ceramics, book arts, Asian art and design, theatre and performance.

It’s one of my favourite museums in the world and the main entry is free (tickets are needed for special exhibits). While I managed to check out the DIVA exhibit, the new Gabrielle Chanel Fashion Manifesto exhibit just opened (and sadly sold out – unless you become a member).

The Victoria Albert Museum is right beside the beautiful Natural History Museum, and if you have time and the attention for it, it’s also a great visit.

Pressed for time, I needed to get my fill of all the London institutions I could – my first stop was Fortnum & Mason. First founded in London in 1707, after Queen Anne permitted her footman William Fortnum to sell discarded candles from St James’s Palace, Fortnum’s has forged a close relationship with the British Royal household ever since. Fortnum & Mason has held several warrants, including one from Her Late Majesty, The Queen and continues to this day with His Majesty The King.

I have only had Afternoon Tea at the Piccadilly flagship once, but should your schedule allow 3 hours, it’s a quintessential must do. I left with a large bag filled with tea, chocolates, cookies and lemon curd spread. Had my bag not been filled to the brim, I would have brought more. While there is a store in Terminal 5 at Heathrow, nothing beats a visit to the beautiful flagship.

From food to textiles, Liberty is another one of London’s great retailers. In 1875, Arthur Lasenby Liberty borrowed £2,000 from his future father-in-law and took a building on Regent Street, with just three dedicated staff and plenty of ambition. The Tudor style building is magnificent with flooring constructed by the timbers of two ancient ‘three-decker’ battleships. The HMS Impregnable – built from 3040 100-year-old oaks from the New Forest – and the HMS Hindustan, which measures the length and height of the Liberty building. Shoppers can find luxuries from around the world, and most notable is the Liberty textile archive. Around the holiday season, Liberty comes out with a massive Advent Beauty Calendar that draws queues and always sells out. I love browsing through their section of stationery and Liberty print products.

If you are a fan of stationery and leather essentials, the Smythson flagship on New Bond Street is a must-stop. Since 1887 Smythson has been creating bags and accessories to notebooks, diaries, stationery, and home accessories to suit every adventure. Of course, a brand with so much heritage also has several Royal warrants under its belt. Pick up a notebook or two and have initials embossed in the cover, makes for a perfect gift to give (or keep).

Perhaps you are wondering if I had a chance to stop, sit and enjoy London’s finest food? With such a short timeline, I unfortunately did not. However, if you can make reservations over lining up in a queue for time-management sake, try one of the establishments in the area below.

Sometimes it is nice to visit familiar restaurants in other cities, so the expectations of service and food quality is clear. While I have visited the LAVO in New York, the restaurant recently opened during London Fashion Week at the BoTree Hotel. Split over two floors, LAVO is flooded with natural light, complete with a grown Olive Tree and features a sleek bar area with an intimate terrace. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu features a selection of high-end Italian dishes created by Chief Culinary Officer Ralph Scamardella and Head Chef Stefano Lorenzini.

SUCRE opened in London after a successful open in Buenos Aires in 2001. Founded by Chef Fernando Trocca the restaurant pays tribute to Argentina and its Mediterranean roots. The beautiful dining room is adorned with massive decanter chandeliers with a wood oven and huge “parilla” (or grill) at the centre. This ensures cooking is done the Argentine way, using embers rather than the live flame. The Sunday Asado prix fixé 3 course menu starts on October 15, where guests can choose from several mains, including a mouth-watering 300 g Striploin with Chimichurri.

If you are looking for something exclusive to London, try Franco’s. Established in 1945, Franco’s is considered as one of London’s first Italian restaurants. Head Chef Stefano Turconi’s menu offers homemade bread and fresh pasta, a variety of fish and meat as well as vegan and gluten free options. Franco’s opens for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The bar and heated outside terrace are open all day. Perfect for a quick chat over a drink. I have heard that the dedicated rosé wine section is one of the largest in the city.

Nestled in The Bloomsbury Hotel, you will find the Dalloway Terrace. This restaurant has been on my list for a while, as it has a dreamy ambience. It is a year-round garden terrace (fully heated in the winter). Open all day, the restaurant offers brunch, afternoon tea and a pre-theatre menu. The Dalloway recently partnered exclusively with Neal’s Yard Remedies and London Essence to celebrate their commitment to British biodiversity and sustainability.

Side Hustle’s newly launched brunch menu is what we were here to sample / devour. Having had a quick peruse of the menu ahead of visiting, my mouth was already watering at the thought of Mexo Benedict- the Side Hustle version served with lashings of siracha spiked hollandaise and guac, not to mention anywhere that serves tacos for brunch gets my vote.

The day I chose to eat at Side Hustle was one of those days in London that starts off blue and then from nowhere turns black. Big, fat, heavy rain drops fall from the sky with such force you wonder if you will end up with bruises. The most well-seasoned Londoner’s become drowned rats, hair sticking to cheeks, anything and everything being used as make shift umbrellas – newspapers, handbags, small children. Puddles the size of lakes appear out of nowhere, drivers appear to adopt a private joke style game of seeing how many people they can drench. Tubes over crowd, buses stop working, basically it’s the apocalypse and every man for themselves.

Falling into Side Hustle, heaving open the heavy wooden door and hearing the screams of the drenched ebb away as it slowly closed behind me, I felt as if I had entered another world. Calm, serene, heavy with the scent of opulence, the host team perfectly coiffed and manicured, ready to welcome you into the dark panelled room complete with countertop seating and booths plus the option for diners to snack at the incredibly atmospheric bar littered with potions and blends destined for the signature cocktails on offer and curated with such flair that it has earned the bar a spot on the 50 Best list. The vibe was luxe, as a NoMad off shoot should be. Dark wood panelling, earthy deep greens and brass accents cutting through the moody aesthetic are balanced by warm lighting with subtle nods of Latin America bleeding into the décor – a whole shelf of curated tequilas, large skulls reminiscent of those synonymous with Day of the Dead that act as vessels for the house tequila laced Pina Coladas sit amongst huge vase style urns used to house the self titled ‘cocktail explosions’ that feed 6 and come with a warning.

It is one of those spaces that on entering you feel safe and at ease, content in the knowledge you will be taken care of, the booth seats are ready and waiting to receive you and the blinds offer the perfect balance of privacy from the outside world but just the right amount of give to people watch… or watch people drown, depending on the weather.

And so, settled and safe from the biblical monsoon outside we began our meal.

Drinks first and on a mission to remind myself it was actually July despite the madness taking place outside, I ordered the aforementioned Pina Colada. At this stage in the game I was unaware it came in a skull larger than mine, crowned with wedges of the golden fruit and her green stalk. She was giving Carmen Miranda albeit, a little darker. The drink itself was delicious, a Pina Colada stan, I was nervous for a tequila based rendition(that and it has been known that tequila can make me a little lary but in the name of good journalism I took the risk), this was the perfect balance of coconut and pineapple, not too rich nor too sweet.

Side Hustle offers both small and large plates that can be taken as starters and mains of ordered on mass to share amongst the table. First to arrive was the Mexican staple of some form of chip and dip (although in Mexico they are usually on the house). With three salsas on offer, we settled on the Pipian, a blend of pipitas, red pepper and chili arbol – an expertly seasoned offering balancing chilli heat and earthy seeds. It was one of those dishes where you felt the nutrition of the salsa outweighed the fried tostadas provided to scoop with.

We also shared Croquetas de Esquites and yellowfin tuna tostadas served with Aguachile. It never ceases to amaze me to see the different way corn is played with in Mexican kitchens and so I was excited to see the Side Hustle rendition – sweet kernels, running through crème fraiche, spiked with epazote, rolled and deep fried.

The tuna was fresh and light, a wonderful opener to the mains heading our way.

In preparation of the tacos and burrito, an apothecary style bottle of homemade hot sauce was delivered to the table – a nice touch and a welcome edition to our main plates. It was well made, you can taste the ingredients and feel the heat start to build rather than the instant fire that many hot sauces tend to deliver. Onto the main event – a plate of lamb birria tacos complete with tomato and radish salad and a breakfast burrito for my dining partner, served with a well made mole for max dunking.

The tacos were good, and yes I know I said my mouth was watering at Eggs Benny but what can I say, tacos are my love language and who am I to stand in the way of love.The lamb was melt in the mouth, falling apart and topped with wafer thin, perfectly pickled discs of radish, a welcome hit of acid to cut through the fat. The obligatory consommé served on the side, rich and fatty and delivered the perfect drip on every bite of the taco. The tortillas were perfectly cooked, pliable and full of flavour and when loaded with the rich lamb, the coriander heavy tomato salad and a few drips of hot sauce made for a winning combination.

The burrito was heavy and substantial – thank goodness, there is nothing sadder than an underfilled burrito. The mole complex and full of layers of flavour.

We completed our meal with another round of cocktails, this time I went for the ‘Pardon Plea’, a blend of rum, tequila, green apple, coconut and palo santo – which was eye wateringly punchy which in turn made it incredibly refreshing. My partner who doesn’t drink was equally well looked after as the bar has a fantastic mocktail menu that you can tell are as expertly thought out as the alcoholic menu. His first El Diablito, alight and refreshing blend of ginger, hibiscus and lime. His second incredibly unusual pandan situation which you could have easily mistaken for a sour – truly exceptional drinks.

And so, as much as we wanted to squeeze in a desert of Mango Prepardo or an ice cream sandwich, we were just too stuffed and with that we braced ourself for the carnage of the outside world, lucky for us, our Mexican morning had trickled out of the restaurant and into the streets of London and we were back to blue skies.

Find out more and book your table here.

Just a quick hop on the subway and you will find yourself in Brooklyn. There are so many great eats across the East River, I simply could not leave Brooklyn out of this New York City guide.

Gair

Dumbo’s premier destination for elevated, distinctive cocktails, Gair serves locally-sourced, seasonally-inspired dishes in an unmatched environment. Located on Washington Street, guests can snap their iconic Manhattan Bridge photo before heading to Gair for delicious cocktails and appetizing share plates. My drink pick is the Mezcal based cocktail, Under the Influencer and you will want to order the Fried Chicken Sandwich. Conceptualized and owned by architectural designer and Dumbo local Kevin Cimini, Gair was developed to create an elegant yet approachable destination that serves as an oasis for its community, and an authentic New York experience for visitors.

Brooklyn

The Norm

The Norm’s food is inspired by the cultural diversity of the Brooklyn Museum’s namesake borough. The menu encourages a gastronomic exploration of the borough’s multi-cultural heritage, using local produce and global flavours. As it is a Great Performances restaurant, seasonal ingredients from the catering, hospitality and events company’s organic Katchkie Farm in Kinderhook, NY are incorporated throughout the menu. While located in the Brooklyn Museum and designed to give guests the sense of dining within the cultural institution’s inner sanctum, The Norm can be accessed directly off the museum’s lobby without any admission payment.

elNico

Located on the 11th floor of The Penny Williamsburg, the name is derived from ancient Greek and Italian roots meaning “victory for the people.” At the helm, is emerging Chef Fernanda Serrano who comes to elNico after serving as executive sous chef at The NoMad London. A native of Mexico City, Serrano’s menu is a journey through her life, featuring casual, yet elegant colourful dishes that are rooted in her Mexican heritage. elNico is filled with colorful and unfussy elements that are both relaxing and bold, setting the stage for an elevated but approachable food and drink adventure.

Fandi Mata

Positioned in the heart of Williamsburg, Fandi Mata is a bi-level space featuring a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant downstairs, with a secluded mezcaleria upstairs. The rustic and industrial establishment is shielded by sky-high ceilings, with lush, verdant foliage and colorful mosaic accents giving an indoor-outdoor feel. On the ground level, the restaurant offers a seasonal, cross-continental menu, ranging from seafood-focused small plates and vegetable-driven mezze platters to hearty, spice-fueled mains. Meanwhile, on the second floor, an intimate mezcaleria, Little Oaxaca, brings a line-up of delicious and creative cocktails, crafted by bar industry veteran, Milos Zica.

The Osprey by Dan Churchill

The Osprey at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is pleased to announce its partnership with Dan Churchill, Australian performance chef, author, and CEO, to offer The Osprey by Dan Churchill, a brand-new dinner and brunch menu. The menu will prioritize creative, plant-forward, and locally inspired cuisine with a robust selection of Australian wines and beverage pairings. Every bite and beverage will spotlight indigenous ingredients, traditional cooking methodologies, and local customs that honour Australian culture and emphasize our shared desire to prioritize the wellbeing of the planet in everything we do.

Sustainability has always been a key ingredient at The Osprey—from supporting local farmers and growers to upcycling food scraps—and Churchill’s passion for healthy and sustainable cuisine makes this collaboration a seamless fit. He has mastered the art of designing flavorful meals that nourish the body, mind, and palate while minimizing food waste, uplifting the planet, and telling a beautiful story of culture and unification along the way.

Ainslie

Ainslie offers year-round dining in the heart of Williamsburg, with decor and a menu that enchants. Under the masterful guidance of Executive Chef John DeLucie, savor the sublime, from wood-fired pizzas that dance with charred perfection to succulent pastas, free-range chicken, New York Strip Steak, and Atlantic Salmon. Foodies who drop by on weekends can enjoy All You Can Drink Brunch, a delightful affair from 11 am to 4 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, that promises to elevate your senses and raise your spirits.

Isla & Co.

Nestled beside The William Vale in Williamsburg, this gastronomic haven beckons foodies with an Australian menu that traverses culinary boundaries while retaining its distinct essence, evolving with the seasons to tantalize your taste buds with signatures like Spicy Shrimp Vodka Rigatoni, and a supreme brunch spread. My pick is the Kangaroo Tucker (Australian rubbed Kangaroo skewered over herbed tahini, marinated cucumbers, pickled onions, fried lentils) and Crispy Halloumi (almond romesco, honey, Spanish dukkah) to share, with the Braised Lamb Shoulder (Swiss chard, crispy fingerlings, labneh, zhoug) as a main.

Little Rascal

A warm, intimate gathering place founded by brothers Halil and Öner Gündogdu, the cocktail list at Little Rascal features unexpected flavor combinations, classic techniques, and house-made ingredients led by world-renowned bartender Keith Larry. Try the Flaco and Audrey (Fundy Gin, preserved cherry blossom, chamomile cordial, London Essence, white peach soda, egg white), or the Dough of Existence (rum, soursop, lime juice, house-made falernum, avocado-pit orgeat, wormwood bitters). Add a Mediterranean-inspired plate or two (Fan-favorite Smoked Salmon Fattoush) to complete your visit at Little Rascal.

Slate Rooftop

Visit the Slate Rooftop above The POD Brooklyn Hotel (247 Metropolitan Avenue) for breathtaking, open-air views. The atmosphere pairs perfectly with an amazing menu of shareable bites, and frozen drinks from Executive Chef Darryl Harmon and Liquid Lab NYC. As the sun bids adieu, engage in an evening of spirited amusement with signature games like Sub Soccer and Giant Jenga, igniting the night with playful camaraderie.

Fornino

Experience the Fornino legacy and watch the sunset at their seasonally open Brooklyn Bridge location, a quaint rooftop at Pier 6, overlooking Brooklyn Bridge Park and the East River. Chef Michael Ayoub’s masterfully crafted menu, found at Fornino’s year-round Greenpoint (849 Manhattan Ave.), and Time Out Market New York (55 Water Street) locations, provides a historical approach to delicious pizza with First Generation Neapolitan, Second Generation Regional Italian and Third Generation Original Fornino varieties made in a wood-burning oven plus salads, sandwiches and a comprehensive wine list.

The Springs

The Springs is a Palm Springs-inspired retro bar, lounge and massive patio located in Greenpoint at 224 Franklin St. Guests can come to chill, soak up the sun, and drink frozen Aperol Spritz cocktails on Monday – Friday beginning at 4 pm and Saturdays and Sundays beginning at 2 pm. On Fridays and Saturdays, guests will be able to order small bites and Brioche Donuts from Eat with Nana NYC. The spot is also dog-friendly as long as you keep a leash on your furry friend.

Ten Hope (Temporarily Closed)

Ten Hope’s new brunch with bottomless brunch options is sure to delight taste buds and satisfy brunch cravings in Williamsburg. The brunch deal offers a generous 90 minutes of bottomless brunch for $35 per person with the purchase of just one entree. While their menu boasts an array of mouth-watering options, some standout items include their Mezze Platter with assorted Dips like Stuffed Mushroom and Babaganoush, the New England Crab Cakes, and the Chorizo Hash.

Lan Kwai Fong has become synonymous with the nightlife scene of Hong Kong over the years. However, this wasn’t the case until 1983 when Allan Zeman famously opened California Restaurant on a narrow alleyway in this forgotten part of the Central district. Before that time, it was dominated by flower shops and warehouses but Allan had the vision to see the potential of the area. By 1984, Allan had bought the entire block and launched his career as a property mogul and a hospitality specialist. He reportedly owns 65% of properties in the Lan Kwai Fong area. His impeccable business acumen has seen him involved in wide-ranging industries from TVB (the ITV equivalent in Hong Kong), the Airport Authority of Hong Kong and Wynn Macau. He is currently the chairman of LKF Group whilst his son, Jonathan Zemen is the CEO.

The district is the place to be for all kinds of celebrations from Halloween to New Year’s Eve. Whilst people associate the countdown in New York with Times Square, locals and tourists alike gravitate towards Lan Kwai Fong on New Year’s Eve. Apart from being a major landlord in the area, they own some of the most distinguished restaurants in the area. The eclectic choices on offer have been the key to their success. In such a small radius, you’ll find the very best steakhouse in the city, the freshest sashimi dishes and restaurants with breathtaking views of the city.

In Hong Kong, it’s always been about sourcing the very best ingredients rather than local produce, being a tiny island in the South China Sea. At Porterhouse, you can savour full-blood wagyu from Mayura, Australia to extremely well-marbled, Rubia Gallega from Los Nortenos, Spain. Their legendary seafood brunch is unrivalled with unlimited oysters, Boston lobster and Irish crab. No other country executes buffets quite like Hong Kong and this is one of the most spectacular, you’ll encounter.

If you want to admire the scintillating skyline of Hong Kong, a top choice to consider is dining at Aria on the 24/F of California Tower. With floor-to-ceiling glass, an outdoor terrace and a trendy mixture of contemporary and art-deco touches, this is the place to see and be seen. You won’t be surprised to find the operatic nature of the restaurant name has inspired a menu filled with elevated Italian classics. Melanzane alla puttanesca and spaghettoni all’Amatriciana are all created from traditional family-style recipes but presented for 21st-century consumption. They have a wine club series in the coming months focusing on wines from different regions of Italy. In May, it will be Marche, in June, it will be Lazio and in July, it will be Tuscany. You’ll get to explore wineries that are hidden gems whilst dining on the finest Italian produce at this ever-popular restaurant.

Japanese food is undoubtedly still all the rage in Hong Kong. And the LKF Group have three distinguished offerings: Fumi – Japanese kaiseki, Tokio Joe – sushi & sake and Kyoto Joe – modern izakaya. Tokio Joe is particularly worthy of a mention. It is THE original Japanese restaurant of Lan Kwai Fong having been opened since 1995. It is one of the first restaurants in Hong Kong to offer an omakase menu. Their sashimi platters offer delicacies which you’ll rarely experience in Europe such as succulent Hokkaido sea urchin and akagai (red clam). They do frequently launch new products to be in tune with the times. Kyoto Joe offers an unlimited vegetarian feast which includes the likes of cauliflower tempura and yam sushi rolls. They also offer a decadent-sounding A4 Wagyu & lobster tasting menu dinner.

Lan Kwai Fong has developed into a cultural phenomenon with the likes of the Lan Kwai Fong beer and music festival. They’ve also expanded their brand into China with LKF Chengdu and LKF852 Prince Bay. They are most definitely one of the most exciting companies to have evolved in Hong Kong over the past decades and one to watch as the expansion plans are limitless.

https://www.lkfgroup.com/

Shad Thames has been the location of choice for romantic diners wanting the iconic Tower Bridge as a backdrop to their gastronomic feast. Coco Grill & Lounge fits the bill with an expansive shisha garden terrace filled with sumptuous floral decorations. The chic interiors also deliver on the premium experience front with faux orchard trees, lush velvet banquettes and mood lighting fit for a Hollywood film set. But is it all style over substance you might ask? The answer is a definitive no.

The menu is halal-friendly, and vegetarian-friendly with allergens clearly labelled. It is expansive, so if one of your guests isn’t in the mood for Anatolian cuisine, they can for a comforting plate of vegan ‘meatball’ pasta instead. You can also enjoy slow-cooked duck tacos marinated with a hoisin sauce. A highlight of the restaurant is its redemption cocktail bar menu. All the drinks are alcohol-free and they’ve worked with the best connoisseurs in the business to deliver an exceptional offering. For the classic 1920s cocktail, Bees Knee’s, they’ve only used the finest ingredients such as Sicilian lemon along with floral honey to make for a welcoming aperitif. The garnishes often include floral decorations in line with the restaurant interiors. There are zero-alcohol wines, classic mocktails and milkshakes and I would not be surprised to discover, they have the most inventive alcohol-free menu in London.

The eye-catcher on the menu is their 35-day aged Tomahawk steak served with truffle Parmigiano mayo with the option to wrap it in gold for £50. This pairs with their Espora 24k Gold Champagne (de-alcoholised), which contains 24-karat gold flakes. They are not items I would personally order normally, but you can appreciate they are targeting the Salt Bae audience.

The less flashy dishes had greater appeal with the silky, smooth black cod a particular highlight. It was well-marinated with kaffir lime and miso and cooked delicately so the freshness was retained with the flavours well-infused. Their incarnation of the dish is arguably superior to the original served up at Nobu. Mixed Coco Shish is always a moreish crowd-pleaser. Their version consists of marinated lamb and chicken served with tzatziki and chilli sauce. It is elegantly presented with Tetris-like neatness, unlike versions you’ll see in more casual establishments where you’re often presented with an Everest of indiscernible meat. Their main course portion sizes tend to be more restrained which is ideal if you want to pair it with side dishes and enjoy a dessert. For an indulgent treat, opt for their messy wedges. The potatoes are topped with caramelised mushrooms, sriracha mayo, turkey bacon and spring onions and topped with copious amounts of Gruyère.

Presentation is everything at Coco Grill & Lounge. You’ll often see the use of dry ice to deliver a more impactful presentation such as their crispy spiced shrimp starter. But even if you take away the edible flowers, and the mysterious smoke, the quality of the ingredients genuinely shines through. For example, with their cheese and spinach pide, they only use baby spinach as they are more tender and the finest of Mozzarella cheese.

We didn’t have any stomach space left during our visit for dessert but we are looking forward to returning soon and trying their signature Turkish baklava and the underrated Kunafa. It is a baked kataifi pastry filled with cheese and topped with vanilla. It does take 20 minutes to prepare so do order before you’ve finished your main courses.

https://www.coco-restaurants.com/coco-index.html

From the fluffiest pancakes to the freshest of smoothies we’ve rounded up some of the best brunches in London.

Gilgamesh

Gilgamesh Bruch

Gilgamesh in Covent Garden is the re incarnation of the iconic and original outpost that dominated the Camden dining scene for those old enough to remember. Having closed its doors in 2018 it’s reimagined itself as a restaurant, lounge, bar and stunning Brunch hotspot in Covent Garden. Although it’s retained the familiar Babylonian-themed interior and pan-Asian menu, the recently opened iteration it looks and feels more modern and is definitely the spot to be seen in and and to see.

It’s not all aesthetics though, Gilgamesh is still a powerhouse when it comes to the dining experience. To truly enjoy the best they have to offer, booking a table for their popular weekend brunch menu is the way to go.  It’s a wonderful blend of sharing plates for starters followed by a main course and the prettiest sharing dessert platter for the table to round of what is a truly spectacular 3 course meal. 

There is the option of either the House Bunch Menu or the Premium, the main difference being that  the latter comes with a premium sashimi selection.  From the starters you’ll love the steaming edamame with sea salt, and the crunchy, flavoursome Chicken Kara-Age. A firm favourite is the Sweet Potato Korroke, a type of lightly fried sweet potato cake. The vegetable spring rolls won’t last for more than 5 minutes, you’ll be left yearning for more.  The green leaf salad with Wafu dressing is an elevated take on a staple that adds another dimension to the meal.  The mains are equally tantalising and you’ll be hard pressed to choose one,  but the rib eye bulgogi with chive mash is a winner.  For the fish lovers, the Salmon Teriyaki is a melt-in-the- mouth sensation. The whole affair is exquisitely executed from the  warm welcome the moment you arrive to the delectable dishes that are on offer.

The best bit? Your brunch comes with free-flowing wine throughout your meal -it feels like a day party that you wont want to leave.

The Gilgamesh weekend brunch menu is available every Saturday and Sunday (12pm-3pm)

The Blues Kitchen

In a world of over-wrought, look- a-like brunches, The Blues Kitchen offers a different take from the usual brunch staples. This is southern dining at its decadent best. It’s hard to think of a better way to while away a couple of hours than in this dim lit haunt on a Saturday afternoon thanks to its unique combination of delicious grub, top-quality cocktails and chilled out vibes. Distinct southern comfort oozes from every surface.

The menu shuffles and showcases the best of American southern cuisine: From the small plates, the juicy buffalo chicken wings arrive at your table not only glistening beautifully but also packing a tangy punch. The szechuan baby back ribs coated in soy glaze and chilli are lip smackingly good, and will have you gleefully licking your fingers as if nobody is watching. The crunchy blue corn tortilla with hot, cheesy spinach artichoke dip is a must try, just be careful not to fill up on that and save space for the larger plates.

While The Blues Kitchen is known for their incredible burgers and fried chicken, we recommend venturing afield in terms of the menu and trying the blackened cajun spiced salmon with creamed corn and crispy new potatoes. If you’re craving something a little more indulgent try a stack of buttermilk pancakes with maple syrup and bacon. For sweet toothed brunchers, The corn bread with dripping honey butter is a highlight. Accessorize this with their famous lychee martini cocktails or for a bottomless option, rum punch or mimosas are also on offer. Factor in the delicious slurpy milkshakes and you’ll have won the day before it’s even the afternoon.

Don’t forget to finish off in true American style with baked white chocolate and ginger cheesecake topped with caramelized bananas, it’s a taste sensation you don’t want to miss. And if you’re even still able to move afterward, you’ll be perfectly placed to wander around Shoreditch and walk off some of those calories. Sounds like the perfect Saturday to me!

https://theblueskitchen.com/shoreditch/

Bondi Green

Aussie chain Daisy Green has brought phenomenal Antipodean inspired brunch all the way from Sidney to Paddington dock and gifted us Bondi Green, one of the best places for Saturday brunch in London.

Bondi is a sprawling affair with plenty of seating, lots of natural light, insta-friendly decor and a faultless food menu proving that style and substance can happily co exist. Don’t go expecting your standard avo on toast brunch fare- kick things off with the fancy bacon roll, with poached eggs, crispy onions, back bacon, h*ly fuck hollandaise, chilli, paratha roti and avocado. The famous sweetcorn fritters with smashed avocado, poached eggs, red pepper, habanero and almond sauce, feta and corn rib are also a must have. The decadent desserts include the award winning banana bread sandwich, with whipped mascarpone cream, fresh berries, flaked almonds, and honey. Our favorite though has got to be the peach melba french toast with torched peach, coconut yogurt, freeze dried raspberries, toasted coconut flakes for a grand finale. The portions are super generous, the service is friendly and efficient and if your brunch experience at Bondi is anything like ours, you’ll bounce out of there with a huge smile on your face. The 3 course brunch is available from 10am- 4pm and includes one savory dish and one sweet dish. Grab a sparking kombucha to wash it all down or make it boozy with Daisy Fizz for £49.

Decimo

The Standard Hotel at Kings X is home to Decimo where the Saturday brunch is a huge draw. Up high on the top floor, overlooking the grandeur of the St Pancras building, Decimo boasts some of the best dining views in London and is the spot to see and be seen in. The team at Decimo know their way around a menu too, serving the most flavorsome weekend brunch in London. The food is a fusion of Mexican and Latin mouth watering delights that offers a distinctive and unique take on brunch. From fish tacos to the decadently rich dish of huevos a la flamenca- baked eggs cooked in a tomato sauce to the creamy shrimp tortilla the menu is pure brunching perfection. A manchego quesadilla sounds simple enough but at Decimo it’s elevated to something more sophisticated. All this can be washed down with a refreshing cocktail if a boozy brunch is on the cards. We recommend the fino highball which is a thrilling mixture of Pisco, Fino sherry, lemon, thyme, chilli lime and tonic For the sweet toothed, dessert doesn’t disappoint -go for Tres Leche, an ultra light sponge cake soaked in a sweet milk mixture.

Brunch is available every Saturday between 12- 2.30pm.

Apothecary East

The clever people at Apothecary East have brought a phenomenal Japanese Izakaya inspired brunch all the way from Tokyo, to Shoreditch. Izakaya is an informal eating and drinking place where diners relax and unwind over drinks and small plates of freshly prepared food. Whilst the plates may be small, the flavors are big and the cocktails are killer when it comes to the weekend brunch menu at this Tokyo inspired gem.

Settle into one of the secluded alcoves or one of the many cozy banquettes and eat your way through a mouthwatering 5 part menu sectioned into distinct categories for easy navigation: gyoza, grilled veg options, hirata buns, fried food and pudding are all on offer. A bowl of edamame and a welcome glass of crispy prosecco gets things going and before you know it you’re tucking into a steady stream of mouthwatering dishes. The steaming chicken gyoza is a cracking dish while grilled cauliflower with black sesame is a revelation in how when executed right even the most boring of vegetables can be zhuzhed up. The smoky tenderstem broccoli is also very good. The infamous hirata buns also jostle for ‘star of the show’ accolade, in particular the standout Japanese fried chicken one that comes coated in sriracha mayonnaise with kimchi and pickles. The miso glazed aubergine is a stunning combo of crispy skin and soft centre with just the right amount of coating.

It goes without saying, that this wouldn’t be a true Japanese experience without sushi, and it’s definitely the main event here featuring all the familiar favorites including a vegan option Yasai lucky roll with cucumber, avo, mange tout, chives and teriyaki. For fish lovers the Chirashi lucky roll is sure to impress. If you still have room for dessert, try the house ice cream that comes in exotic flavours like black sesame. For less adventurous palettes, the passion fruit sorbet is a great way to round off the feast. Brunch at Apothecary East is £35pp with the option of a £25pp upgrade for for free flowing cocktails.

Yopo at The Mandrake

If you’re beginning to get bored of your standard avo on toast brunch fare, then get yourself down to Yopo in Fitzrovia.

Yopo, (named after a hallucinogenic drug) is the flagship restaurant of the Mandrake Hotel, the five-star luxury boutique hotel in Fitzrovia famous for its urban oasis jungle inspired decor. The psychedelic art and the 10 foot tall ostrich, complete with snake neck and ducks beak, that takes pride of place in the dining room certainly lends a “trippy” feel to the experience. For a decadent Sunday experience, it’s hard to top the jungle style terrace complete with ethnobotanical cocktails and a live DJ.

Then there’s the food. The Shamanic Brunch is a South American inspired fare that can be enjoyed across 3 courses including shared starters. Your culinary journey begins with the spelt and wholemeal sourdough, butter & olive oil, which is freshly baked and served warm. Sizzling padron peppers swiftly follow together along with crunchy corn chips that are served with tomato chipotle topped guacamole. The crab and apple tostada complete a stunning trio of starters.

The main course part of the menu shows off some the best of Yopo. The Chorizo & Poached Egg Muffin with Chimichurri Hollandaise is an absolute show stopper. The Butter Milk Fried Chicken Bun with Guacatillo Slaw, Jalapeño & Smoked Cheddar isn’t quite as exciting but will please less adventurous palettes. Uniquely, this brunch offers unlimited sides with the choice of house fries with chipotle aioli or grilled broccoli & courgettes with salsa verde. From the sweet section of the menu, the silky smooth Island Chocolate Mousse with toasted Coconut, Passionfruit & Buckwheat perfectly sounds things off. The drinks are equally impressive, with a cocktail menu that is completely bespoke to The Mandrake. We recommend the best-selling Mangosteen, an elevated take on a margarita that has a splash of mango with chilli and salt on the rim, and can be dialed up or down according to your personal taste.

The Shamanic brunch is £65pp with the option to upgrade to £100 for the bottomless option with cocktails or £110 for free flowing rose.

 

When it comes to London brunch locations you can’t beat Madison. With rooftop beats, views across the city’s skyline and a versatile menu it is the perfect spot to spend a Saturday afternoon.

Nestled on the top floor of One New Change, Madison brings the Manhattan brunch scene to London and as the glass lift climbs its way to the top I am reminded why I love this city. I step on to the terrace and am instantly hit by the buzz and atmosphere, wine glasses chink, waiters flit between the two outdoor terraces and the resident DJ is pumping out tunes that give me all the weekend feels.

The day I visit there is a clear blue sky accompanied by a bright winter sun. I managed to bag a table on the coveted terrace facing St Paul’s Cathedral so I sit back and take in the views while the waiter heads off in search of a bottle of Albarino. Despite it only being lunchtime Madison is radiating party vibes. Glamorous groups laugh and chat over the music inside and out of the restaurant. Couples knock back shots and girlfriends are cracking open the bubbles in between snapping selfies.

Madison is an Instagrammers paradise. As well as the stunning views across the Capital, the terrace is decorated with autumnal inspired floral displays and hanging lanterns. The space is heated so you don’t have to worry about getting cold. Inside the restaurant, large leather sofas and seating are surrounded by floor to ceiling windows that wrap around the edge of building so where ever you are sitting you still get to take in the sights. A long bar dominates the back wall, here the mixologists get to work creating signature cocktails – make sure you try the Deluxe Porn Star Martini. It’s an upgrade on a regular one and is a delicious mix of Rosé champagne, Sauvelle vodka, passion fruit, egg white, vanilla and apple topped with white chocolate angel wings and 24k edible gold.

Madison offers a New York Roof Top Brunch menu with two or three course options. It’s a combination of tasty small bites like Ceviche, Poke bowls and Falafel or more substantial plates like Lobster Benedict and Flat iron steak. Our waiter recommends the Crispy fried chicken and waffle, so my date and I decide to share this along with a selection of lighter dishes. The Iberico ham croquetas are a big hit, served with a saffron aioli they have a golden crunchy exterior and rich fluffy centre. The creamy Burrata is the perfect compliment to the beets and pesto it is served with. Our Fried chicken waffle comes with a fried egg and chilli glaze. The chicken is succulent and juicy with just the right level of seasoning. I’m glad we decided to share as the portion sizes here are large and along with the side of Mac and cheese I ordered, I think it was probably a bit too much. However, I’m glad I did as it was to die for.

As the sun goes down the crowd pile onto the viewing platform next to the bar to get the ‘money shot’ of the iconic London skyline. The music goes up a notch and the brunch crowd get their grove on.

The New York Rooftop Brunch at Madison is £35 for two courses, £39 for three courses and add free flowing bubbles for £35. To book visit Madison.

Kick off your Halloween celebrations in style at COYA London. The renowned Mayfair hot spot is hosting a Halloween Brunch and Halloween Party on Saturday 29th October, transporting revellers on an immersive journey through South America’s forbidden forests.

Taking inspiration from the Amazon, COYA Mayfair will be showcasing the very best spooky entertainment. The venue will be transformed for the haunted holiday season into an eerie forest filled with cobwebs and complete with glowing eyes where the wolves will be hiding in their dens. There’ll be spine-chilling performances and live DJ sets. Their famous dancers will take to the floor throughout the party, expect entrancing performances with mysterious twists, this is one Halloween party you don’t want to miss.

Sip on special Halloween cocktails and enjoy some of the finest Peruvian cuisine including firm favourite dishes; Crocantes con Guacamole, Taco de Salmón, Yellowfin Tuna Ceviche as well as Chilean sea bass with rice, lime and chilli and Sirloin with crispy shallots, aji limo, star anise. Bottle service will be available throughout the venue (restaurant, bar and member’s club). During brunch, COYA’s renowned Pyramid and Treasure Chest shots will also be on the menu, ready to take the party vibe to the next level.

The theme will be COYA’s signature glam so dress to impress. Grab your pack of friends, embrace your wild side, reveal your inner beast and head down to COYA for a fright-filled evening like no other.

COYA Halloween Brunch at Mayfair is from 12pm – 4pm. Packages include Veuve Clicquot (1/2 bottle pp) – £90pp and Dom Perignon (1/2 bottle pp) – £150pp. The COYA Halloween Party is from 6pm – 3am.

It’s summer brunch season and the Maison Mirabeau Rosé Brunch at Plateau is giving us all the vibes. The combination of French cuisine, Mirabeau gin cocktails, free-flowing Côtes de Provence Rosé, unparalleled views of Canary Wharf and a kicking soundtrack from the in-house DJs, makes this a great location for sips with friends.

Located at the top of Canada Place, Plateau is the perfect spot for those looking for a more sophisticated brunch. This contemporary space is spacious and minimal. Huge glass windows run across the side of the restaurant bathing the dining area in natural light. There’s a private dining room and at the back of the restaurant you’ll find an outdoor terrace for those wanting to soak up the summer sun.

Kick off your brunch with one of the delicious cocktails and take in the city skyline. I tried the Rosé Garden Blitz which combines Mirabeau Dry Gin, Mirabeau Rosé wine, grapefruit juice, lime juice, hibiscus syrup, Aperol and fresh strawberries. This refreshing tipple packs a punch but goes down a treat.

The menu here includes the usual brunch staples such as eggs Benedict and guacamole on sourdough however Executive Head Chef, Sean Kimpson has put his own signature twist to each dish and added large plates and starters to give you more variety. Choose from two or three courses depending on how hungry you feel. I tucked into the Puglia Burrata with grilled courgette, minted petit pois pistou to start, this indulgent, creamy soft pearl was decadent and morish. At one point I wanted to ask for chunk of crusty bread to smother it on but had to remind myself that this is a classy joint.

My brunch date and I decided there was just too many mouth-watering choices on the menu and settled on sharing Crispy Plaice Goujons with Pomme Frites along with the Soft Shell Crab Burger with mango slaw and spiced mayonnaise, and we weren’t disappointed. The plaice goujons were plump and had a delightful crunchy texture while the crab burger smothered in spiced mayonnaise was a match made in food heaven.

The music and gentle bustle of Plateau create a buzz and ambience that says elegant rather than raucous. Throughout the afternoon the waiter kept our glasses topped with Rosé and recommended we end the day with their chocolate Delice served with mandarin sorbet, a big hit with brunch goers and the highlight for me and my date. The bitter dark chocolate was perfectly paired with a refreshing mandarin sorbet and a delicious sign off for the afternoon.

Taking place every Saturday between 11:30am-3:00pm get the weekend started by booking into the Rosé Brunch with Maison Mirabeau at Plateau. Starting at £32 pp.