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Cocktails

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Searcys is popping the corks by partnering with some of the best British zero-alcohol drinks, Pentire and Wild Idol to offer alcohol-free alternatives across its venues this January.

Limited-edition botanical mocktails from Pentire and non-alcoholic sparkling wines by Wild Idol are the perfect tonic for those seeking alternatives to alcohol this Dry January. Celebrating the best of British, these no-alcohol offerings perfectly complement Searcys’ carefully selected list of Champagnes and English sparkling.

Searcys’ 2024 Dry January Menu includes two fitting twists on refreshing summer classics. Simultaneously sweet and sour, the Pentire Paloma is sure to dispel the doldrums of winter. The Pentire Coastal Spritz is blessed with a bracing burst of Cornish salt that offsets the quintessential bittersweetness. The unique botanical notes of Pentire are inspired by the remarkable flora flourishing along the Cornish coast. In the hands of Searcys master mixologists, these luxurious ingredients elevate the mocktail to new heights.

Another British gem served at Searcys is Wild Idol, a premium, alcohol-free sparkling alternative to fine wine and champagne. Wild Idol is hand-crafted using traditional winemaking techniques and a superior blend of grapes for the finest aromatics and purest flavour. A long-time partner of Searcys, Wild Idol’s ingredients have never included alcohol. The production process is simple and pure – ideal for those searching for a New Year detox. Vegan, low calorie and gluten-free, the result is a sparkling drink of the highest calibre, delivering supreme taste without compromise.

Pentire mocktails will be available at Searcys Barbican restaurants (Barbican Brasserie by Searcys and Barbican Bar & Grill), Brigade Bar and Kitchen, The Pump Room in Bath, Carlton Brasserie and Searcys Champagne Bar at 116 Pall Mall, Searcys Brasserie at St Pancras International and The View at the Royal College of Surgeons. Meanwhile, Wild Idol will be served at Searcys Champagne Bar at Battersea Power Station and St Pancras.

For those wishing to elevate their new year even further, an alcohol-free afternoon tea at Searcys at the Gherkin, enjoyed alongside dramatic 360-degree views, will ensure January has all the glamour and excitement of a new year. Priced at £55 per person, the signature Searcys Sparkling Afternoon Tea can be paired with Wild Idol Non-alcoholic Sparkling Wine from 3rd January until 11th February. From delicate cucumber and cream cheese to indulgent smoked salmon and caviar sandwiches, followed by a tantalising array of sweet pastries and scones, Searcys Afternoon Tea at the Gherkin will ensure no one is compromising on those special moments this Dry January.

The Dry January menu across all other venues will be available until 31st January.

searcys.co.uk

As the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve you want to be celebrating somewhere in style.  Here’s our roundup of the best restaurants in London to see in the New Year.

A Unique German Festive Experience

German Gymnasium, is set to treat visitors with a uniquely German festive experience, inside their iconic Grade ll listed restaurant. Nestled in the heart of King’s Cross, with its rich history and distinctive interiors, it captures the very essence of German traditions.

For a truly German New Year’s Eve affair, guests can treat themselves to the set menu in the Restaurant. With 8 courses of local favourite dishes such as Seeteufel Rauchmantel, Letscho – (Monkfish, Tyrolean speck, rustic tomato & paprika sauce) or Kalbsroulade, Steinpilzfüllung, Serviettenknödel, Schwarze Nüsse – (Veal roulade with cep stuffing, red cabbage, poached bread dumpling & pickled walnuts), this menu will see the year out with a bang.

Looking for the perfect spot to welcome the New Year in London? Check out our restaurant ideas, offering a delightful mix of flavors and a festive atmosphere for a memorable celebration with friends and family.

A Vintage New Year’s Eve

This festive season, Quaglino’s, the renowned restaurant in the heart of St James’s, has delved into the allure of the Prohibition era, bringing guests a delicious menu specially crafted for an enchanting New Year’s Eve celebration.

Step back in time and welcome in the New Year with an unforgettable prohibition-style party. The evening will commence with dinner service at 5:30pm (with two seating options available), with the celebrations running into the early hours. Guests are encouraged to embrace the vintage flair of the 1920s with music from the Brooklyn Shakers and by dressing in 1920s attire.

A New Year’s Extravaganza by the Riverside

Get ready for an extravagant New Year’s Eve celebration at Skylon with magnificent views of the River Thames, a live performance by ‘The Revellers’ and a seven-course tasting menu designed to keep guests entertained to the stroke of midnight. The evening kicks off with a celebratory welcome Chambord Kir Royale, setting the stage for a lavish night. For those seated in the River View area, there’s a chance to catch a glimpse of the Mayor’s fireworks display, with the option for all guests to head down to the South Bank* for an up-close view. Skylon offers two options for the evening: the Early Bird Dinner, a three-course feast for £125pp, available from 5:30pm to 7pm, and the New Year’s Eve Main Event, priced at £375pp. The New Year’s menu features seven-courses showcasing mouthwatering morsels such as BBQ lobster, Heirloom beetroot, and a delicious trio of duck. The festivities receive an extra boost with a pre-dessert gin and tonic sorbet. When the clock strikes midnight, the fireworks display will light up the London skyline, providing a breathtaking backdrop to the New Year’s celebration. It’s an evening of live music, indulgent dining, and fantastic views – an incredible way to welcome the New Year in London’s prime riverside spot.

(*Weather and security allowing, as organised by South Bank)

A New Year’s Sky-High Celebration

At 14 Hills, guests are invited to reserve their tables for a grand New Year’s celebration, waving goodbye to 2023. Whether seeking a lively party or a memorable dining experience, 14 Hills offers the perfect choice. Indulge in an unforgettable evening with panoramic views of London, exceptional cuisine, dancing, dazzling entertainment, and a resident DJ, all set 14 floors above the City. For an early seating between 5:30pm-7:30pm, you can enjoy a meticulously crafted Five-Course Tasting Menu priced at £90pp, accompanied by an optional wine pairing at £65. The menu features delights such as Lobster, Langoustine bisque, kohlrabi, blood orange, and Fillet of beef Rossini with wild mushroom and Périgourdine sauce. For the entire evening, 7:15pm-22:00pm, the indulgence continues with a Six-Course Tasting Menu priced at £140pp, accompanied by an optional wine pairing at £95pp. This extended menu includes additions such as Scottish halibut, scallop chou farci, caviar fish velouté. As the night unfolds, guests can end the night on a sweet note, with the Valrhona chocolate marquise, yuzu, honeycomb, and sesame.

Celebrate New Year’s in the Heart of Battersea Power Station

Nestled in the historic Battersea Power Station, Fiume extends a warm invitation to celebrate the arrival of the New Year. Guests can bid farewell to 2023 with a crafted four-course menu, priced at £85pp, complimented by a glass of bubbles to set the festive tone. Prepare for an exceptional dining experience featuring dishes that include succulent Beef tartare, Lobster linguine, Roast duck breast or Poached monkfish, and a velvety Chocolate mousse. Fiume is collaborating with Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto this festive season for a delicious cocktail menu. Guests can immerse themselves in the spirit of the season with the Grande Eleganza, a delightful blend of Italicus Rosolio Di Bergamotto, Malfy Gin Originale, Smoked Rosemary Aroma, Lime Juice, Mediterranean Tonic, Sugar Syrup, finished with a sprig of rosemary. See in 2024 with an Italicus Spritz, a perfect fusion of Italicus Rosolio Di Bergamotto, Prosecco, Soda, and Lemon. The festive cocktail menu also includes the Itoddycus, Negroni Bianco, and Salute!, each offering a unique and delightful combination of flavours. After dinner and cocktails, guests will be only be a short walk from the iconic Battersea Park firework show. A visit to Fiume is not to be missed.

A New Year’s Night to Remember

Embracing the allure of Mayfair, Sartoria invites guests to welcome 2024 with a grand Italian feast priced at £150pp. The journey kicks off with a glass of Franciacorta and a delicious amuse bouche. The evening features dishes such as a fresh lobster salad, artfully presented in a catalana style with caviar, and an exquisite Burrata tortelli, generously infused with truffle and grana padano. The star of the night, Black Cod, takes centre stage, accompanied by tropea onion and liquorice, promising a harmonious blend of flavours. Concluding this feast is a Chocolate cake paired with passionfruit mango sorbet, ensuring a sweet send-off to the year. Over the winter season, Sartoria is partnering with Cambridge Distillery to create a new menu focusing on their Cambridge Truffle Gin, adding a touch of decadence to the festivities. Guests can indulge in truffle-infused cocktails like the Truffle Vesper, Truffle Negroni, Truffle Margarita, and Truffle Bellini.

Spend This Festive Season in Luxury at The Royal Horseguards Hotel

For those looking for the ultimate festive experience, The Royal Horseguards hotel is offering a luxury New Years Eve menu providing guests with the most opulent black-tie experience. Dinner at One Whitehall Place includes a selection of canapes to start, steamed halibut with keta caviar or pan-fried fillet of beef in madeira juice with raspberry sorbet or peach puree to refresh. From 7pm – 2am, from £450 per person

Our girl Hannah Tan-Gillies has been scouring London for the cosiest, bougiest and most romantic winter terraces and experiences in London – that are perfect for cuffing season.

The Hari

The entrance of The Hari Hotel in London

Beloved Belgravia establishment The Hari has teamed up with famed Champagne house Ruinart for their winter terrace, which is open until 5 January. Under cosy heaters at the alfresco terrace, you and your boo can enjoy Ruinart’s Champagne accompanied by a selection of seasonal bites including Maldon oysters, a charcuterie board or a sumptuous baked Camembert.

Not to mention, the Hari’s talented bar team have also created a limited-edition cocktail for the season — The Gold 1729. This appropriately festive concoction is a sparkling cocktail combining grape juice, Hennessy, apricot brandy and topped with R de Ruinart Brut Champagne, served in a coupette. What better way to toast the holidays?

The Goring

Cocktails served on a tray

Ramp up the festive vibes at The Goring, which has unveiled a mini ‘Winter Wonderland’ via an adorable giant snow globe installation. Designed and scented by British scent mavericks Jo Loves, the snow globe is the spot to capture the perfect winter selfie. Big enough for two people to step inside and equipped with vintage polaroid cameras for a memento to take away, you can get all the Winter Wonderland feels minus the tourist hoards. Plus, we think that spending an evening enjoying the expertly crafted cocktails (paired with delicious nibbles) at the bar is the very best way to catch up with a girlfriend this holiday season.

The Goring Cocktail Bar has an impressive selection of Champagnes, wines by the glass, and of course delicious cocktails. Led by Bar Manager Roberto Ferrero and his expert team of bartenders (who will shower you with compliments as you imbibe) the experience is elegant, festive and a perfect pick me up amidst the Christmas party rush. Click here for our full review.

Tattu London

A restaurant filled with flowers

Tattu London has teamed up with Grey Goose and Patron to offer a delightful new winter terrace experience called ‘The Great Snow’. Tattu is inviting Londoners to step into a winter wonderland encased in ice. Its iconic cherry blossom trees having bid farewell to warm weather foliage and now turned crystalline blue, branches glinting like fairy lights guiding us through the darkest months is the perfect setting for a romantic dinner date in town.

Dalloway Terrace

A winter terrace

Dominating everyone’s Instagram feeds since it opened in Bloomsbury, Dalloway Terrace is a must-see in terms of festive winter terraces. This year, Dalloway Terrace has partnered with Perrier-Jouët Champagne for a Belle Epoque-inspired terrace that will take your breath away.

The Mitre Hampton Court

A cosy winter terrace

The Mitre in Hampton Court, a well-loved Surrey establishment, is hosting a fabulously cosy Taylors Port pop-up overlooking the Thames.

Located in sleepy Hampton Court and adorned with Parisian style furniture, outdoor kitchen, twinkling lights and roaring fires, we enjoyed a few warming glasses of Taylor’s Port paired with some of The Mitre’s classic dishes.

You can also sample one of Taylor’s signature cocktails, which includes a Porto Negroni, Port Old Fashioned or LBV Martini. With the largest vintage port list in London, lovers of the tipple will be spoilt for choice. Oh, and did we mention that Mitre Hampton Court was dog friendly too? Meaning you can enjoy this cosy winter terrace with your four-legged bestie in tow. Click here for our full review.

Ramp up the festive vibes at The Goring, which has unveiled a mini ‘Winter Wonderland’ via an adorable giant snow globe installation. Our girl Hannah Tan-Gillies went to check it out.

Designed and scented by British scent mavericks Jo Loves, the snow globe at The Goring is the spot to capture the perfect winter selfie. Big enough for two people to step inside and equipped with vintage polaroid cameras for a memento to take away, you can get all the Winter Wonderland feels minus the tourist hoards.

Plus, we think that spending an evening enjoying the expertly crafted cocktails (paired with delicious nibbles) at The Goring Lounge bar is the very best way to catch up with a girlfriend this holiday season.

Snow globe at The Goring

The Goring Cocktail Bar has an impressive selection of Champagnes, wines by the glass, and of course delicious cocktails. Led by Bar Manager Roberto Ferrero and his expert team of bartenders (who will shower you with compliments as you imbibe) the experience is elegant, festive and a perfect pick me up amidst the Christmas party rush.

We sampled some of the specialties including the Okawari, which is a refreshing combination of Yuzu, Akashi Tai Peach Soda and Mt Fuji Bitters. This wonderful cocktail, served in a traditional Japanese teacup, serves up authentic Japanese flavours in perfect harmony.

The entrance of The Goring hotel in Belgravia
Cocktails served on a platter

Next up, The Flower Duet. Served in a Champagne flute and combining Leblon Cachaça, Blueberry 7 Rose Silent Pool and Ayala Champagne, this delicate spritz pays homage The Goring’s secret garden and is a perfect cocktail for all year round.

Finally, we ended with The King’s Cure. While the cocktail does take inspiration from the restorative penicillin cocktail, this fireside sipping drink combines Goring 9 Years, Cacao Butter, Kin’s Ginger, honey, pink peppercorns that is so delicious it is definitely fit for a king. The perfect remedy for the winter blues.

Christmas tree in hotel lobby

Click here to book festive cocktails and nibbles at The Goring

From quaint brunch spots to unique wineries and Michelin Star dining, Monterey County, CA has a diverse, vibrant culinary scene. Here’s our guide to some of the best foodie experiences in Monterey County.

Best Foodie Experiences in Monterey County

Michelin Star Dining

The cool coastal town of Carmel by the Sea is quickly becoming a firm favourite with foodies.  This postcard-pretty town is home to top-notch wineries and Michelin-starred restaurants.  Chez Noir’s French-inspired menu showcases innovative, seafood-centric dishes that have earned them a well-deserved Michelin star.  The restaurant comes from husband and wife duo, Jonny and Monique Black, both of whom bring their experience of working at Michelin-starred restaurants to the project. Jonny previously cooked at restaurants including Per Se, Atelier Crenn, and Quince. 

Tucked away down a quiet street in Carmel, Chez Noir is a true haven for food enthusiasts seeking a unique and intimate dining experience. The velvet corner booths and open buzzy kitchen set the stage for a memorable meal. The menu boasts a fusion of flavours, from tantalizing appetizers to decadent desserts. Highlights include their perfectly seared scallops and the melt-in-your-mouth chocolate fondant. The staff’s knowledge and passion for each dish add a personal touch, making Chez Noir a must-visit for those who appreciate culinary artistry.

Craft Beer Paradise

For beer aficionados, Alvarado Street Brewery is a pilgrimage site in Monterey. The industrial-chic setting exudes a laid-back vibe, creating the perfect backdrop for sipping on innovative craft brews. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, the beer menu is a testament to the brewery’s commitment to quality and creativity. The friendly staff are more than happy to guide you through their extensive selection, ensuring you find the perfect pint to pair with the bar food. Alvarado Street Brewery is a haven for beer lovers and a testament to Monterey’s thriving craft beer scene.

Coastal Elegance with a Culinary Twist

Just a stone’s throw from the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf, Jacks Monterey at the Portola Hotel & Spa, is the epitome of coastal elegance.  Tall bar tables, as well as plush lounge-style sofas surround the full-length bar that stretches across the back of the restaurant.  Unlike some hotel restaurants, this is contemporary and cosy.  At one end is an open fire and the lobby entrance features a tree adorned with twinkly lights.  While the setting is fabulous, the menu and service are excellent.  The menu showcases locally sourced ingredients, transforming them into exquisite dishes that capture the essence of the region. The Jacks Famous Chowder is a standout, a hearty bowl of the local dish is brimming with clams, dungeness crab, organic corn, artichoke hearts and bacon.  For mains choose from fresh salads, pizza or larger plates like their Short Rib Ravioli served in a silky tomato, mushroom and sherry cream sauce with shaved parmesan.  The drinks menu features some fantastic local wines like the Bernardus Griva Sauvignon Blanc and Imagery Pinot Noir.  There is a great selection of cocktails too.   With its stylish interior and prime location, Jacks Monterey stands out as a top-notch dining destination on the Monterey Peninsula.

Sip, Savor, and Cruise

Embark on a wine adventure like no other with Kombi Wine Tours, where vintage style meets exquisite vintages. Board the classic VW Kombi, ‘Sweet Pickle’ and journey through the scenic vineyards and wineries of Monterey, indulging in a curated selection of wines from the region. Their knowledgeable guide, Steve is full of local tit-bits and banter which makes the tour not just educational but thoroughly entertaining.

Carmel by the Sea is home to husband and wife wineries, Dawn’s Dream and Galante Vineyards.  Jack Galante heads up Galante Vineyards, what Jack doesn’t know about wine is not worth knowing.  He is Mr Carmel by the Sea (the town was founded by his great grandfather) and his knowledge and passion are infectious.  His wines are rich, full bodied and include Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as limited amounts of estate grown Malbec, Petite Sirah, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, and several other blends.  Every bottle has a ‘cowboy philosophy’ on the label, which is very Jack.  He also commissions local artists to create unique pieces of art on bottles which can be refilled or saved as an investment.

Meanwhile Jack’s wife, Dawn, is serving up some outstanding tipples over at Dawn’s Dream Winery which is tied to non-profits for women and children. Her dedication to producing her ‘wines with a purpose’ has been revolutionary in the industry, supporting many great causes each year.  The microclimate in the region is perfect for crips Pinots and Chardonnay.  Dawn has dedicated three of her Pinots to each of her daughters, Rachel, Alyssa and Nicole.  I loved Jack’s style but Dawn’s wines were my favourite.

Just along from Carmel is Corral Wine Co.  Their tasting room has a ‘casual, local wine bar’ feel and this is reflected in their motto, ‘we aren’t fancy, we just make good wine.’  Corral’s young winemaker Adrien Valenzuela is creative and, on a mission, to produce well balanced wine with a lot of flavour. He says that sourcing grapes from some of the regions very best vineyards is ‘key to their success.’ His wines are exceptional, the Sauvignon Blanc is vibrant and crisp with lemon blossom notes and a pleasant minerality.  Their Rose wine is also a big hit, it’s light and delicate, with aromas of strawberry and orange blossom.  

Puma Road Winery is a family operation who use grapes grown in Apex vineyard soil which gives their wines a unique taste.  Expect crisp Blanc de Blancs, cool Chardonnays, and light Pinot Noir.  All their wines are crafted from grapes direct from their own estate and they reserve five percent of the output to create exclusive wines for their label.  Their wine tasting room is close to Fisherman’s Wharf and offers wine by the glass and bottle, small bites, and often has live music.

Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned connoisseur, Kombi Wine Tours tailor the experience to ensure you get the most out of each tasting.

Seafood Extravaganza

For a seafood feast that celebrates the bounty of the ocean, Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette is the place to be. This award-winning upscale seafood restaurant is perched above the marina dunes at the Sanctury Beach Resort.    The space is carved out into three distinct dining spaces, a buzzing bar and lounge, perfect for pre-dinner drinks, an expansive dining room that faces an open raw bar and for long summer evenings there’s an al fresco dining patio.

Located a short drive from Monterey Bay, this restaurant exudes coastal charm with a menu that pays homage to the region’s maritime heritage. The raw bar is a standout, featuring an array of oysters and seafood. The wood-fired grill adds a smoky richness to dishes like the grilled octopus and honey glazed duck. The casual yet sophisticated atmosphere, coupled with the welcoming staff, makes Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette a go-to spot for those craving a seafood extravaganza.

Quaint and Quirky Culinary Haven

Tucked five minutes from Cannery Row is Happy Girl Kitchen, a quaint and quirky culinary haven with a focus on organic, vegan and vegetarian options.  The menu, filled with farm-fresh ingredients, reflects the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability and community. The avocado toast is a must-try, showcasing the simplicity and excellence of Happy Girl Kitchen’s approach to food. The team here specialise in making jams and pickles so you can stock up on rich tasty preserves when you visit.  Whether you’re in the mood for a brunch or a take-away lunch, Happy Girl Kitchen delivers a fresh, seasonal menu that celebrates the beauty of wholesome unpretentious food.

Enjoy the stunning Californian vistas

Lucia restaurant at Bernardus Lodge and Spa is nothing short of spectacular.  Situated in the Carmel Valley it’s nestled on the grounds of rolling vineyards, olive orchards and 28 acres of fragrant lavender.  With beautiful vistas, tables at Lucia are sought after. 

The main dining room, located just off the lobby is contemporary. French wooden floors, soft cream furnishings, chandeliers and a focal, showpiece fireplace set the scene for a culinary cache.  The patio doors open onto an al fresco dining terrace.

The day I visited the Californian sun was shining so the outdoor terrace was bustling with ‘ladies who lunch’ and while it’s a popular spot, it still has an air of calm and tranquillity. 

Slick, seamless service and a menu dedicated to delicious farm-to-table fare is what sets Lucia apart from other restaurants.  There’s a great selection of small and large plates to choose from.  The wood brick pizzas are divine, the seasonal salads are served like a work of art and the larger plates source prime cuts of meat and market fish. Choose from a selection of wines from the Bernardus vineyard to accompany your meal.

After lunch you can wander around the gardens or enjoy a game of bocce or croquet on the lawn.

House of Coco travelled to Monterey County courtesy of See Monterey.

Food writer and resident House of Coco chef visits Bossa, London’s hottest new restaurant and takes a Brazilian flavoured trip down memory lane.

My one and only experience of Brazil is that of a second gap year – one taken after university because I really didn’t want to get a proper job (still don’t). It was a magical place, partying in the streets of Lapa, recovering on the beaches of Isla Grande, wandering the shoreline of Rio and discovering the depths of the Pantanal. My memories are plentiful and those that revolve around food, some of my favourite. A staple of rice & beans doused in Farofa and lashings of chilli sauce being my most beloved. The infamous churrasco kick starting my obsession with fire cooking and the out of this world sushi as plentiful as the Cachaca to cater for the huge Japanese community – the largest outside of Japan. I went there with no expectations and left obsessed with rich flavours and dishes that were packed with history as well as deliciousness.

Fast forward a few years and though I am still to make it back, I enjoy voyeuring from a far at the bustling food scene, pawing over the works of Alex Atala and circling each restaurant that appears on the top 50 list – I lust from afar.

When the invite landed in my inbox to visit Bossa, a refined modern reimagination of Brazilian food, I jumped at the chance. Since being on UK soil and lusting after the flavours of Brazil, I had dabbled with some restaurants that claimed to transport me back to that place. Sure, the novelty of seeing a sword of Picanha steaks in the UK was fun but it never quite hit the spot. Was this my chance to sample plates of real Brazilian flavours, fruits plucked from the Amazon, wines still to be discovered by the masses hailing from the southern part of the country, interpretations of pulses and grains not often seen in our dark and dismal land?

Setting the scene – elegant, serene, chic.

Heaving open the heavy wooden door, embossed with brass lettering proudly stating the name Bossa, a Brazilian flag fluttering from flagpole high above. I was greeted by an elegant, chic space, all clean lines and polished finishes where the staff are as perfectly placed as the interiors.

An open kitchen allows diners to watch the brigade work, each chef dedicated to their station, prepping garnish, stirring sauces, seasoning protein with precision and flair. Cleverly positioned tables and countertop dining allowing the spectacle of the kitchen to be enjoyed by restaurant goers as if watching a perfectly executed dance.

Let’s talk drinks – Mojitos, Mezscladinha and a very nice Brazilian Chardonnay.

Our meal started with cocktails –  a Bossa Mojito (because you can always tell the skill of a mixologist via their Mojito)  and a Mezscladinha, a smokey, more grown up version of the Brazilian classic that had left me recovering on those aforementioned beaches many moons ago – the bar (no pun intended) was high, if the kitchen was doing things as spectacularly as the bar, we were in for a treat. Delivered with a flourish from the mixologist himself, an explanation of the flavour profiles within the drinks and a brief chat on his favourite tipple. Personal touches like this removed any potential stuffiness and formality that can so often be found in restaurants of this area.

In a seamless handover, the mixologist paved the way for our maitre’d.  As informative as she is warm, her passion and enthusiasm for the Brazilian wines on offer was palpable. Seeing that both my dining partner and I were fond of a grape juice or two and especially keen on varieties we hadn’t tried before, a trio of bottles were placed on the table to sample including a Brazilian Chardonnay – you heard. Apprehensive at first, I have had far too many buttery, oaky Chard’s thrust upon me in my time. However, this iteration was crisp and full of zest – I assume skipping it’s second fermentation or keeping it to the absolute minimum to ensure low levels of lactic acid and in turn keeping things light as opposed to the thicker Californian chardonnay’s we know and apparently for some, love.

Starting strong – Brazilian inspired starters to set the pace of the meal.

On to the food portion of the piece. We began with a starter of a tapioca, raw cashew nut cream and wild mushrooms. Having seen it described this way on the menu, I was expecting the tapioca served in ‘grain’ format, most likely with the mushrooms running through and a drizzle of the aforementioned cream. However, I was presented with a savoury ‘pancake’ made from the tapioca pearls, swiped with lashings of the cashew nut cream and showered with sauteed wild mushrooms. I am still unsure if you are meant to pick it up like a taco or use the elegant cutlery placed next to you (probably the latter) but taco method I went for and it was sensational. The pancake giving the perfect texture and bite to the topping. This is how to cater for your vegan diners in exciting and innovative ways – anyone who reads my work regularly knows I’m a meat protein led kind of girl but this dish left me perfectly satisfied and allowed my inner carnivore to remain dormant. We also shared sweet potatoes, Coppa, Brazil nut cream, turnip greens  – a dish that doesn’t hide behind ‘cheffy’ techniques but rather showcases good ingredients and proven flavour combinations. There is something bold about a chef that chooses to do this, when the plate landed on the table it looked simple, perhaps too simple but on eating, it quickly became apparent that Chef Nilson Chaves knows exactly what he is doing and his confidence exudes on the plate.

The main event – sensational seabass and a steak I can’t stop thinking about.

For mains – Sea Bass, Delica Pumpkin cream, Okra Vinaigrette and finally allowing that carnivore to come out to play, Grilled Bavette, Beans, Fried Rice, dry banana farofa. As soon as my eyes landed on farofa I was happy.

The sea bass was excellent – the flesh delicately flaking with each touch, the skin crispy and burnished as it should be. The okra prepped to perfection – not a slimy globule in sight – come on, we’re all terrified of it – but instead, holding a firm bite to contrast to the soft flesh of the fish. Both adorning the most heavenly pumpkin cream, thick, unctuous, warming – a marriage of Brazilian flavour with a much-needed dose of autumnal comfort – a very clever dish.

And on to the steak – I can wax lyrical about tapioca and pumpkins but we all know the real reason I’m here. Pink bavette sliced thin, doused with a heady, punchy chimichurri (accompanied by an Opinel steak knife – lovely touch), served with three side dishes of fried rice, beans and and THAT farofa. I was instantly transported back to those restaurants in Brazil where I would take my plate of beans and shovel the dried farofa on top of them, albeit this was a much classier affair. I am yet to try and recreate the banana farofa at home but it is on the list – the sweetness of the fruit sitting along side the salty, toasted cassava flour, hits of chilli popping with every bite. Sprinkling it on the soft red meat like you would a pangrattato on soft pasta – it is sheer heaven and I could have eaten it by the bucket.

Delightful desserts showcasing Brazilian ingredients.

For dessert, egg and coconut custard. For me, there wasn’t enough coconut flavour in this dish – I wanted to be slapped around the face with it, feel like I was drowning in a Pina Colada vibe to end my tropical luncheon, however, the flavours were subtle and the texture interesting. We also sampled a Cupuacu cheesecake – a lovely opportunity to try a native ingredient to Brazil (the national fruit of Brazil if we are getting into it) and a fruit I saw so often when I was there but never really learnt much about it. It’s a chocolatey fruit if you were wondering, that can be made into butter or powder similar to its cacao relative but minus the alkaloids. Both dishes offered a light finish to the meal and I loved that they both championed the produce of Brazil in spades.

As the towel (napkin) was thrown in and we began to brace ourselves for the stark reality of the outside world and leave this heavenly, calm, serene oasis, a shot of house made jalapeno infused tequila was placed in front of us to warm us on our way out. Now I have dabbled in the dark arts of chill infused tequila, but this was something else. A sippable tipple, that builds heat as it trickles down your throat until you get to the point of ‘no way, I absolutely cannot drink that’ but then in a mere moment, you are reaching for more. It is that delicious. We were told the secret is in vacuum packing and fermenting – I would give it a go, but I love my liver too much. And so, 45ml later, I was back where it all began – tipsy, a fire in my throat, sated from fantastic food and in love with the produce of Brazil. Now I just need to find a beach to recover on.

www.bossa.co.uk

Nestled in the iconic Waldorf Hilton Hotel in the heart of London is The Parrot, a stylish tropical hideaway with a brand-new cocktail menu bursting with a selection of tasty tipples. The bar, just a stone throw from some of the major West-End theatres is a great location for a pre-show drink.

The bar’s exotic namesake is alluded to in the interiors, from walls lined with bespoke, hand-painted palm wallpaper to lush foliage and an abundance of greenery planted throughout the space. The plush velvet seating in rich turquoise and midnight blue alongside metallic and rattan detailing draw on the opulence of the historic hotel. The bar front itself is decorated in luxurious teal fish scale tiles beneath exposed Edison filament bulbs, conjuring the moody, atmospheric feel of the speakeasy.

The Parrot’s Bar Manager, Massimiliano Terrile, has designed a menu jam packed with tropical-inspired coolers with fresh and zesty flavours to suit every taste. Team Coco was invited down to the launch party and got to sip and shimmy the night away while nibbling on some delish dishes such as Wagyu beef with pickled enoki, wasabi & pineapple and poached lobster with mango, served with edamame beans, macadamia nuts & yuzu and Quinoa with avocado, sesame, pomegranate & mango, bringing light, exotic flavours to this stylish, tropical venue. Here’s some of our favourite cocktails.

Parrot Puffer
Made with Absolut Elyx Vodka, seasonal fruits and vanilla ice cream, the Parrot Puffer is drizzled with syrup and served in one of the bar’s Instagram-worthy parrot shaped glasses.

Blossom Parakeet
Made with Auchentoshan double oak infused with plum, camomile cordial and ginger ale.

Cockatoos
Made with Black Cow Pure Milk Vodka, bitter XO, cider evaporation and cardamom syrup.

Book your table at The Parrot via www.theparrotldn.co.uk

We joined Hendricks gin and Mr Fogg’s for an immersive advent calendar adventure this festive season.

If you’ve yet to feel the Christmas spirit, we urge you to visit Mr Fogg’s residence for your next cocktail evening. The much-loved Mr Fogg’s crew have truly turned up the festive vibes this season. Alongside Hendricks gin, they have crafted an immersive advent experience whereby an advent box containing gin-tastic treasures can be discovered in one of their six sensational sites around London.

We couldn’t wait to take part in the experience to see what our prize would be so we headed to Mr Fogg’s residence to find out. It is the ultimate venue for a festive drinks night, decorated head to toe in twinkling lights with a heavily adorned tree at the entrance and Christmas classics playing in the background. Once seated in the cosy outside area we were treated to a spread of cheeses, hams and bread before our immersive experience began.

The advent quest commences

The Mr Fogg’s and Hendrick’s curious calendar treasure hunt started with a question which had a numerical answer. Once we had cracked this code, we were escorted by the brilliant ‘Earl of Cucumbria’ to the special Christmas advent box and punched in the numbers to open it. Inside, there was a kaleidoscope of colours which unveiled a secret message for us which we conveyed to our table host in order to gain our prize. We were so pleased to open our envelope and discover complimentary cocktails, but other gifts to be won also include bottles of Hendrick’s Gin and a range of Mr Fogg’s experiences.

Festive thirst-quenchers

Their Christmas cocktail menu is a gorgeous Hendricks shakable snowglobe which lists all of their specials for the season. We couldn’t resist the warm inviting smell of spiced mulled wine* served in dainty china mugs, but would also highly recommend tipples such as the fruity Passepartout’s uncle* and the sweet treat Mayfair Mistletoe,* how can you resist a cocktail that comes with a miniature cake and lashings of cinnamon goodness?

After a fun and rewarding experience, we sat under our toasty heaters, sipping happily in beverage bliss and enjoying the infectious festive ambience that Mr Foggs does so well. Always re-inventing the wheel and jazzing up cocktail hour, Mr Fogg’s isn’t one to miss this December time if you’re looking for some extra magic from your evening out.

To partake in the Mr Foggs and Hendricks Christmas countdown, keep an eye on Mr Fogg’s instagram to discover which of the venues the advent box will be taken to next:

Website: mr-foggs.com

Twitter & Instagram: @mrfoggsgb

*Runs until 24th December.

Did you miss it? That’s okay, keep your eyes peeled for more of their experiences in the New Year!

*The Household’s Marvellous Mulled Wine: Monkey Shoulder scotch whiskey, Drambuie and Phileas’s mulled wine.

*Passepartout’s Uncle: Hendricks gin, cucumber, raspberry syrup, lime juice, red wine and egg white.

*Mayfair Mistletoe: Hendricks gin, Roots Rakolemo liqueur, apple strudel and grapefruit.

A new addition to the already bustling nightlife of Leeds is sure to give Gin lovers a night like no other. Liquor Studio is the brainchild of Dan Crowther and Jonathan Lee, owners of the Hedonist bar which sits proudly as a firm favourite among the infamous Lower Briggate.

While Hedonist offers up some of the best cocktails in town, tucked away upstairs is a new experience that you can’t get anywhere else in the city.

We were invited to come and check out their Gin Creation experience and it’s safe to say we’re still obsessing over it.

After walking through what looks like a trendy science classroom, with beakers and measuring tubes neatly aligned on benches, we’re greeted with a Gin and Tonic. What better way to kick off a Gin masterclass than with a glass of the good stuff in your hand?

Within minutes of the talk kicking off, it’s safe to say that both Dan and Jonathan really know their stuff when it comes to Gin.

You’re thrown headfirst into the history of the spirit, including all its grisly past and how it came back round to being in fashion again. During this interactive presentation, you’re given the chance to smell and taste some of the raw ingredients. On top of this, you also take part in some fun experiments that make you question how you really use your various sense to experience taste.

Once you’re a little more clued up on the rather surprising history of Gin, it’s time to get your hands dirty.

By far the best bit of the whole experience is when you get to make your own Gin. Yes, that’s right, you get the chance to create your very own blend using all the skills you’ve just learnt from the experts themselves.

Don’t worry, Dan and Jonathan talk you through the quantities needed and are on hand to give you advice on flavour combinations and really encourage you to get imaginative.

You can create as many blends as you like until you find the one that’s perfect for you, so don’t be shy and get some wacky flavours on the go. You never know, you might create the next big Gin flavour!

Once you’ve had your fill of feeling like a mad scientist, it’s time to bottle up your blend and give it a name. You write this all on a label and stick it on the bottle to create the very first batch of your personal Gin. If you keep a note of your quantities and measurements, you can even go back and get more bottles made in the future.

Once the class sadly comes to an end, you can simply head downstairs and grab yourself some of the Hedonists famous cocktails to finish off the night.

We had such a great night at Liquor Studio and the Gin Creation experience is perfect for birthdays, hen or stag parties or even work events. You more than get your money’s worth and you have a cracking time while you’re at it, what’s not to love?

Liquor Studio, 156a Lower Briggate, Leeds LS1 6LY

With the days getting lighter and summer just around the corner, where better to cleanse from winter over-indulgence and get your glow back than at London’s newest no/low alcohol bar. Hospitality trailblazers The Initiative bring us their latest opening, Shaman in Leman Locke Aldgate.

Shaman is set to shake up London’s hospitality scene in 2020. Shaman has been created with healing, rejuvenation and self care in mind. The space is serving up a selection of fresh juices, pastries created by renowned chef Robin Gill, coffee and low/now alcohol drinks, ready to shift the assumption that bars can only be enjoyed with alcohol. Each fresh Shaman juice has been designed to improve gut health, increase energy levels and reduce stress levels. The space is also an Instagram dream with bright coloured drinks, cascading pot plants and pretty pastels.

The space is multi-functional, friendly and fresh with health and vitality as the order of the day. The cocktails were more delicious than any alcoholic drink we had ever tried. The Lavanderia was sophisticated and refreshing and the Vermuteria was punchy and warming. Afterwards we ordered a drink to go. We opted for the ‘skin glow’ juice was much needed after a long winter without a tan, and without turmeric.

Located in Aldgate East at the Leman Locke Hotel, Shaman combines effortless service with exquisite interiors, envisaged and executed by award-winning interior design agency, Grzywinski + Pons. Shaman is open to the public from 7am – 10pm to keep guests energised and hydrated all day long.
www.shaman-coffee.com