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The Delicious Dolomites

Famous for its fantastic ski runs, the Dolomites may not be the first place that comes to mind for a foodie getaway however, this rugged, dramatic landscape is the backdrop to some of the finest Italian cuisine. I took an out of season trip to this beautiful corner of Italy and took a culinary journey up the mountains.

Lefay Resort and Spa Dolomiti

I checked into the luxurious Lefay Resort and Spa, a modern, mountain hideaway located in Pinzolo This oasis of calm is the perfect base to explore this gastronomic region, rich in tasty, unique dishes.

This expansive mountain range is dotted with restaurants. After a morning hiking up to Vallesinella in the Madonna de Campiglio region, I was ravenous and ready for lunch. Hugging the side of the mountains is Chalet Fogajard, an alpine lodge straight out of Heidi. This beautiful rustic retreat offers spectacular views of the Brenta Dolomites and is the perfect location for lunch. As the afternoon sun sneaks through the rugged rocks and clouds, I enjoy a well-earned, cold glass of Nosiola and soak up this outstanding location. The charismatic owner, Eduardo greets me and swiftly seats me opposite the fire in a snug nook of this charming restaurant. All the menu uses local in season produce. It’s simplistic, fresh but the finish and presentation of all the dishes makes it feel that bit more special than your run of the mill Italian mountain hut.

Views at Chalet Fogajard

Starter was a flan of ricotta cheese with fondue and cannelloni served with cabbage and beef Carne Salada – a classic Garde Trentino dish bursting with flavour. Now this is a bold statement, but I stand by what I say, the lasagne here is by far the most delicious I have ever tried. Unlike traditional lasagne this had no meat and was instead made with four simple local ingredients – homemade pasta, radicchio, butter and casolét, an Italian cheese produced in the mountains and valleys of Trentino-Alto Adige. This Italian staple was delicate yet rich in flavour. Desert was a light, fluffy chocolate mousse served with homemade biscuit followed by a selection of liqueurs made by Eduardo’s wife, using herbs and plants foraged from the local hills. Be warned, these fragrant sips pack a punch.

Alimentari Caola, Pinzolo

Back in Pinzolo, I head to Alimentari Caola, an Aladin’s cave of tasty morsels. Owner Antonio lives and breathes his business. This 100-year-old delicatessen has been in the family for three generations and stocks some of the best produce from the surrounding area. His passion for all things local is reflected in this modest two floor store that houses over 350 local wines, 167 types of Grappa (17 of which are from the region) as well as some of the finest cheeses including some produced by his son. Downstairs Antonio has created a space to sample these delectable wares. I got to try the delicious creamy Fiori, Crozzon and Malga cheeses as well as rich, juicy hams from the region. Nibbles of local bread and Carne Salada are served with oils from Lake Garda. This is accompanied by a glass (or two) of Ferrari Rose, a dry and delicate sparkling wine. Alimentari Caola is more than a delicatessen, it’s a hidden gem, a place you must go if you want to buy some authentic Italian produce. Pick up some amazing chocolate and wine or Italian oil and cheese while tapping into Antonio’s knowledge of all things local.

The tasting menu at Grual

I conclude my stay with a gastronomic treat back at Lefay Resort. There are so many great places to eat in the region but the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, Grual, offers a unique, culinary experience that’s a real tribute to the Dolomites. Executive chef, Matteo Maenza, has designed an eight-course ‘altimetric’ tasting menu that reflects the territory and a specific altitude. The menu highlights the natural characteristics of the three mountain ranges, starting from the valley floor with ingredients such as red turnips and white fish, then moving up to alpine pastures with wild herbs, apple and brown trout then finally reaching the high mountains with char, deer, and roe deer. The menu is 100% seasonal and Maenza often takes mountain walks with his sous chef for inspiration. Every course was paired with an excellent wine and beautifully presented. I adored the Spaghetti Monograno Felicetti with smoked mountain butter, cornelian, and deer. The Arctic char, Trentino bread purée with wild broccoli was to die for but the pièce de resistance was desert which consisted of Caramel Tarte Tatin, puff pastry ice cream and almond chips as well as a final course of walnut emulsion, chocolate mousse, blackberry compote and mountain pepper ice cream. I finished the evening with a bespoke herbal tea made from herbs locally foraged. I was truly spent, while each course was modest in size by the time I finished my eighth I was full up.

Lefay Resort is a great location to explore this gastronomic region and experience a fusion of Italian and Alpine cooking.

A stay at Lefay Resort & Spa Dolomiti costs from 350 Euros per room, per night including breakfast and taxes.

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Australia

NOW OPEN: ISOLA, ST CHRISTOPHER’S PLACE

Here at House of Coco magazine, we are always in the mood for food. You onlyneed to take one look at our Insta’ feed to know that we’re happiest when eating. So, when we heard that one of our favourite restaurant groups were opening a new addition to their already delicious lineup, we were over the moon to say the least.

Introducing Isola, the much-anticipated new arrival from the award-winning and family-run San Carlo Group – the brains behind Alto and its Dior pop-up and now, the city’s hottest new dining destination. Isola (tr: island) brings la dolce vita to London with a heady dose of Sicilian Grand Café culture, Italian hospitality and a vibrant menu inspired by the islands of southern Italy. This is modern metropolitan dining, but with an island state of mind.

The swoon-worthy interiors combine the contemporary with old-school glamour. Designed by LA and London-based studio of the moment Fettle, Isola’s interiors take their cue from the Distefano family’s heritage and native Sicily, with a soft and considered palette of subtle sorbet shades juxtaposed by dark woods and traditional Italian rattan. Complete with an expansive and verdant leafy al fresco terrace, the relaxed yet stylish all-day brasserie and bar, offers indoor and outdoor dining from noon through to dinner.

INSTA-WORTHY INTERIORS

Arrive to the standalone signature curved, Rosa Pink marble bar and sink into a custom soft green leather booths for an aperitivo before moving in to the vibrant and bustling 200-cover restaurant. Dappled in natural light – thanks to stained timber shopfront windows, the buzz and bustle of St Christopher’s Place is brought straight into the restaurant. The walls are strewn with artwork, curated by Narcassius Studio, and an illuminated bottle display, whilst the downstairs dining room, with its curved soft pink panels, eyecatching mural by LA based artist, Jessalyn Brooks, offers an elegant and intimate dining experience.

SUNNY DISHES, STRAIGHT FROM THE ISLANDS

Inspired by the Distefano family’s native Sicily and their summers spent on the islands, Isola’s menu is a breath of fresh air filled with sunny plates that bring bright and bold flavours to the fore. Free from gimmicks, this is excellent food drizzled with Italian hospitality.

Offering a modern take on the comforting classics we all know and love, guests can expect a taste of the coast with a fresh, vibrant menu of seasonal plates, by Executive Chef Andrea Parente The menu opens with a generous selection of stuzzichini – delicious snacks deserving of attention over a cocktail – with choice morsels including Arancini, Roasted Pepper marinated in olive oil and garlic and Sicilian Semolina Bread topped with Provola cheese and tomato basil sauce or filled with aubergine. Antipasti follows – expect Figliata al Tartufo – traditional creamy mozzarella encasing bite-size bocconcini, dressed in truffle oil – and Carpaccio di Spigola, the freshest carpaccio of sea bass with fennel chiffonade.

Next, the star of the show, and your Instagram feed, is the signature sharing Spaghetti Granseola – spaghetti for two served with a whole crab and house-spiced sauce that’s just like mama used to make. There’s also a selection of the family’s favourite dishes including Tartufo e Porcini Ravioli – handmade pecorino and truffle ravioli in a creamy sauce with black truffle, Signor Sassi Lobster Spaghetti and Gamberi Sicilia – grilled prawns with garlic, chilli and olive oil. Or, for a true taste of the islands, traditional dishes such as Luganica alla Tradizione Isolana – pork and fennel sausage with red grapes, rosemary and red wine sauce; and Carlamaro Imbottito – squid stuffed with fish, mussels, prawns, fresh tomato, lemon and sea salt are sure to delight.

What’s life without a little dolce? Finish with the dessert on everyone’s lips these days, an indulgent Tiramisu, served Classico or Limone, or Cannoli Sicliani – ricotta filled pastry with pistachio or cioccolato.

DIVINE DRINKS – SALUTI!

The extensive and exclusively Italian wine list, ranging from small producers to well-known wineries, journeys the length of the country’s vineyards from Piedmont and Veneto in the north, down to the Tuscany and the sun-drenched southern regions of Puglia, Sardinia and Sicily.

As well as all the classics, signature cocktails include the Isola Spritz, a blend of Amaro Santoni with raspberry purée, prosecco, soda, and an Old Fashioned Don Salvatore with Woodford Reserve, Averna Maraschino Liqueur and chocolate bitters. In true Italian style, there’s an extensive selection of grappa, bitters and Italian bottled brews.

PRIVATE EVENTS

Conveniently located in the heart of the West End, the downstairs area at Isola provides an elegant and atmospheric space for private events, suitable for 60 seated guests including the bar area. With pastel yellow walls, green marble floors and booth seating throughout, the space provides the perfect setting for every occasion from birthday celebrations to formal business dinners, and extravagant Christmas drinks parties.

Find yourself transported to sunnier climes and discover Italian food with soul from the heart of the Distefano family – Isola by San Carlo.

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Mouthwateringly Good Food and Drink Round-up This Autumn

Can you believe that we’re already half way through autumn? It’s such a great season, with autumnal colours on the trees, pumpkin latte’s in every coffee shop, and people wearing scarves. Equally, there are lots to shout about from a food and drink perspective too.

We’ve put together a roundup of the latest food and drink news, including product launches, increased product lines, limited editions and more. Enjoy!

Food

Mad Pies from Mad O’Rourke’s Pie Factory

Have pie-fection delivered to your door by ordering from the world famous Mad O’Rourke’s pie factory. Tipton in the West Midlands is where each pie is lovingly made and packaged before being sent fresh to your door. You can order a box of 6 pies for just £24. Pies include 100% Bullocks (Steak), Posh n Becks (Steak & Stilton), Hen Pecked (Chicken & Mushroom), Andy Murray (Chicken Curry), Wham Bam Thank You Lamb (Minted Lamb), and Jack The Lad (Jackfruit & Mushroom). Available from Mad Pies Online.

Merchant Gourmet

The leading pulses and grains brand, Merchant Gourmet has launched a new limited-edition pouch this autumn: Spiced Grains & Chestnuts with Wild Rice & Cranberries, priced at £2.00 (250g). Flavoured with a mix of warming herbs and spices including nutmeg, cinnamon, rosemary and thyme, this limited-edition pouch containing pearl barley, wild rice, chestnuts and cranberries will make every dish taste wonderful. Available from Waitrose, Ocado, Morrisons and Sainsbury’s.

Cocos Organic, Plant-Based Coconut Yoghurt

Cocos Organic is an independent and family-run dairy free brand that produces delicious and functional coconut food and drink products in Britain, launching with the first UK-owned organic coconut yoghurt alternative. Yoghurt alternative flavours include Mixed Berry, Mango & Passionfruit, Strawberry, Vanilla, and Natural. Priced at £4.99 (400g) select flavours available from Ocado and all flavours available from Cocos Organic.

The Groovy Food Company

There are a variety of baking products that you can purchase at The Groovy Food Company including Organic Agave Nectar (£2.50 from Waitrose, Ocado, H&B, Sainsbury’s and Tesco), Organic Coconut Oil (£3.99 from Ocado and Waitrose), and Organic Coconut Flour (£3.50 from H&B, Ocado, H&B, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons) to name just a few. These three baking essentials are what you will need to make your very own Lotus Biscoff Millionaires Shortbread along with some more ingredients. Full recipe at the bottom of this round-up!

Oppo Brothers Ice Cream

Oppo Brothers Ice Cream, the indulgent, feel good ice cream brand has served up a staggering 10 million scoops of ice cream to its loyal fans throughout summer 2021 …and it doesn’t seem to be wavering as we enter the colder months. So, why not try their newly launched flavour, Cookies & Cream, which sit alongside their existing range of low calorie ice creams including Caramel Cookie, Colombian Chocolate & Hazelnut, Chocolate Brownie, Double Salted Caramel Swirl, Vanilla Pecan Praline Crunch, and Double Salted Caramel Swirl Vegan. Available from Sainsbury’s, Morrisons, Waitrose, Tesco, Ocado, and Amazon. Priced between £3 – £4.99 per tub.

SimpleFoods

New, healthy, and sustainable frozen food brand, SimpleFoods brings gourmet, chef-made food to your door. Offering restaurant-quality food, you can mix and match ready-to-heat portions to create the perfect meal. High quality nutrition, a mindful approach to sourcing ingredients, and reducing the amount of food and packaging waste are three of the brand’s key pillars. You can order 9, 15, or 24 portions, prices range between £2.95 – £5.50, from SimpleFoods.

itsu

The Asian-inspired healthy food brand itsu will be launching a new limited-edition Christmas gyoza bringing all the best flavours together into a gorgeous gyoza. soft steamed dumplings filled with juicy turkey, pork, bacon, sage and cranberry. They’re perfect on a party food platter, as a starter, dipped in soy, or simply thrown into stir-fries. Available from Waitrose and Ocado, priced at £3.75 (for 12 dumplings).

Drinks

New Breed Bottle Shop

Long time friends Neil Datta and Mikey O’Kane had a dream to open a bottle shop stocking labels and brands impossible to find in a supermarket or the high street. As a specialist retailer of under-the-radar bottles their range includes spirits & cocktails, craft beers (over 200 on rotation) and wines, including a great selection of natural and biodynamic. So, if you want to treat yourself to something a little bit special, you can order a subscription package either monthly or quarterly at £50 each order. Craft beers include 7-10 bottles and cans, mixed wines include 3 bottles, ales will have 7-10 bottles and cans, red wines include 3 bottles, and white wines include 3 bottles. They also stock cocktails and spirits at differing prices. Available from New Breed.

Pure Oaty from Glebe Farm

The purest British oats are used to make PureOaty Plant-Based Drink by Glebe Farm. Perfect in a homemade barista-style coffee, on your favourite cereal, or in a tasty smoothie. With only 4 natural ingredients including British oats, water, sunflower oil and salt this is one of the cleanest plant-based drinks around. Available from Amazon, Holland & Barrett, and Booths stores plus online with Glebe Farm Foods, £10.80 (6 x 1lt)

Wilfred’s Aperitif

A carefully crafted blend of distilled and extracted natural rosemary, bitter orange, rhubarb and clove. Wilfred’s is free from alcohol, allergens, artificial flavours, sweeteners and colours, vegan-friendly, and a naturally lower calorie aperitif. To be enjoyed over ice with a decent mixer such as tonic or similar – makes a refreshing spritz. £19 (500ml), from Wilfred’s Drinks.

Radnor Hills Infusions

Radnor Hills Infusions is crafted in the ancient county of Radnorshire in mid-Wales using their own spring water with a gentle sparkle, delicately infused with all-natural flavours and extracts! These infusions come in four flavours including Lemon & Mint, Raspberry & Black Cherry, Blackberry & Pomegranate, and Mango & Pineapple. All are sugar and sweetener free, are suitable for vegans, are preservative free, and are made with all-natural ingredients. Priced at £6.49 for pack of 4 (x 330ml cans each) Lemon & Mint or Raspberry & Black Cherry, from Radnor Hills or from various supermarkets.

Slingsby Blackberry Gin

Perfectly timed for the autumn season, Slingsby Gin recently launched their newest flavour, Blackberry Gin. Slingsby’s London Dry Gin base has been infused with Yorkshire blackberries and Harrogate’s world-famous water along with locally sourced botanicals and a handful of ingredients from around the world to produce this fruity gin. It makes the perfect ‘Mulledberry’ Gin Cocktail. Priced at £30 (70cl) from Slingsby Gin.

The Groovy Food Company Lotus Biscoff Millionaires Shortbread – Recipe

Preparation time – 25 minutes / Cooking time – 10 minutes

Ingredients
• 90g The Groovy Food Company Organic Agave Nectar -Light Amber & Mild
• 60g The Groovy Food Company Organic Coconut Oil
• 200g The Groovy Food Company Organic Coconut Flour
• 250g Biscoff Biscuit Spread
• 150g Dark Vegan Chocolate
• 2 Lotus Biscuits (crumbled)
Method:
• Combine the Flour, Oil and Agave in a large bowl into a rough dough.
• Line square baking tin with greaseproof paper.
• Tip the dough into baking tin, pressing evenly with the back of a spoon.
• Put in freezer.
• Weigh out your Biscoff Spread and melt over low heat in a small saucepan.
• Remove tin with biscuit base out the freezer, pour in melted Biscoff Spread.
• Put back in the freezer.
• Melt chocolate in pan over low heat stirring constantly. Once melted let cool.
• Take baking tin out of freezer and pour melted chocolate over it spreading evenly
• Crumble lotus biscoff biscuits over the chocolate and press in gently.
• Pop the tin in the fridge for 30 minutes to allow chocolate to set. Remove from freezer and slice up ready to serve.

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Food & Drink

How to Host the Perfect Asian-Inspired Dinner Party

Exotic party themes can be the perfect fit for your next dinner party. Asian cuisine is an international favorite and can provide you with a rich and colorful background for your gathering. You can put together all of your favorite Asian dishes with fun decorations and be on your way to throwing a fantastic dinner party.

Great dinner parties take planning and work to succeed. When you are going with a themed party, there is more effort required to get all the details right. You want to include all the flavor and tradition of the Asian culture to make your gathering authentic.

Whether you choose to order online Japanese food or make some traditional Asian dishes yourself, your menu planning is a good place to start. Let’s take a look at some tips that will help you plan the perfect Asian-themed dinner party.

Plan Your Menu

Planning your menu will give you a clearer picture of what will be on your shopping and cooking list. You will want to source out your specialty ingredients ahead of time and make a visit to your local Asian market. Many of your dishes can be prepared in advance and assembled on the night of your party. Without the proper menu planning, you could end up spending all of your time in the kitchen and missing out on the festivities.

Prep Your Stir-Fries

One of the most popular Asian dishes is stir fry. While these meals are easy to prepare, they take time to cook in the kitchen. To save time on the day of your party, it’s essential that you prepare your ingredients in advance. Chop all of your vegetables, thaw your meats, and measure out your noodles or rice. Once you are ready to cook, you will save time and be able to just add your ingredients to your wok and get cooking.

Freeze Your Dumplings

A great appetizer for your Asian-themed dinner party is the classic dumplings. These sumptuous bite-size morsels will be a hit with your party crowd. The only problem with dumplings is that they take some time to prepare. Hand-wrapped dumplings can be made anytime ahead of your party and put in the freezer. You can take them out to thaw on the day of the party, and then you will only need to heat them and serve them to your guests.

Chopsticks and Silverware

When you host an Asian-themed dinner party, you want to be as authentic as possible. You should have both chopsticks and western silverware available for all of your guests. While many people may know how to use chopsticks, there will undoubtedly be some guests that would rather use a knife and fork to eat their meal. Set your table with both options to accommodate all of your guests’ needs.

Decorate

To achieve the right look for your Asian-themed dinner party, you should start by including a rich color palette of reds, blacks, and gold. Traditional Asian party decor is generally sleek and minimalist. Keep the decorations to a minimum, but choose pieces that have a big impact. You can decorate your table with painted fans, loose river rocks, or lacquered boxes for a truly Asian look and feel.

The most important part of hosting a successful dinner party is to have fun and enjoy the company of your friends and family. Follow these tips to help you host the perfect Asian-themed dinner party.

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Introducing the indulgent, authentically Italian, food brand – Delita

Here at House of Coco if we’re not eating food then we are thinking about food and if we’re not thinking about food then we’re eating it. Food is the way to our hearts and we’re always on the hunt to try new menus, cuisines and dishes. So when we heart about Delita a brand that was born from the idea that the UK was missing out on deliciously authentic and accessible Italian cuisine, with the desire to invite food lovers to rediscover traditional flavours, introduce them to hidden, regional gems and seasonal specialities, our ears were pricked. The concept came into sharp focus during lockdown, with dining out at restaurants on-hold and limited options for takeaways. Home-dining became more important than ever as people increasingly turned to cookbooks, chef kits and recipes to satisfy their hunger for indulgent dishes.

Delita offers the perfect solution, with its indulgent four course Italian menu of deliciously authentic dishes, crafted by renowned chefs and delivered directly to your door, all at the click of a button. Simply heat the order in the complimentary glass jars, stylishly plate with a little help from a step-by-step guide, add a finishing touch and savour.

From Antipasti, Primi, Secondi to Contorni, Delita offers a traditional Italian culinary experience, elevated by modern cooking techniques. With Italian art de vivre at its heart, fresh, quality ingredients are prepared daily to create a flavoursome menu, featuring well-loved Italian classics and hidden local specialities.

Hero dishes include classics such as, Caponata alla Sicilliana (Caponata), Lasagna alla Bolognese, Cannelloni ai peperoni (Cannelloni with peppers), Parmigiana di melanzane e zucchine (Aubergine and Courgette Parmigiana style) and lesser known delicacies like Polpo con crema di patate and Faraona.

Eva Pederzini, Co-Founder of Delita says, “despite over 90% of Brits declaring Italian as their favourite cuisine, Daniel and I recognised that there was a distinct lack of genuinely authentic, fresh and delicious UK offerings. For us, Delita represents a brave new gourmet experience, bringing to life the joy of Italian food and perfectly fills a gap in the market – delicious, freshly prepared meals, created by respected Italian chefs and finished with a personal touch. Ideal!”.

Daniel Carnio, Co-Founder of Delita says, “I’ve always had a passion for Italian food and really believe in what we can bring to the table. Delita can enhance and educate people on classics, innovative dishes, recipes and ways of preparing. People might then be excited to go to Italy to find these fresh dishes and explore new areas – we want to ignite love for Italy and Italian food.’

Delita launches at the perfect time to enjoy al fresco or ‘al desko’ – at home or in the office – for lunch, dinner, a special occasion, or to impress friends and loved-ones. Select a single course for a casual meal or choose multiple dishes, for an Italian culinary experience. Delita delivers an authentic and flavourful taste of Italy, directly to your door.

www.mydelita.com

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London’s Luxuries : winter LK Bennett Afternoon Tea and Stay Experience

Here at House of Coco we’re suckers for a good collaboration and this one has our name all over it. From the catwalk to King’s cross, The Hansom at St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel will celebrate the festive season in style with the launch of a glamorous Winter LK Bennett Afternoon Tea from 8th November, in partnership with the luxury British brand.

Inspired by the chic colours, intricate prints and contemporary designs of LK Bennett’s winter collection, the hotel’s talented pastry team have created a stylish afternoon tea set to inspire shoppers and foodies alike. From signature silks and subtle patterns to statement gold tones and sequin adornments, the new menu will feature a selection of fashion fancies including:

LKB Choux

Classic by name and nature, this crème caramel choux isn’t tied to seasons – it’s a year-round favourite.

Berry Stylish

A smooth raspberry mousse sandwiched between a shortbread biscuit, served with a raspberry-print garnish. An ode to the winter collection.

A Winter Rose

Soft white chocolate fashioned into the shape of a rose to capture one of LK Bennett’s signature floral prints.

The Velvet Dream

A rich and velvety cheesecake, the kind that dreams are made of.

Served alongside the sweet delights, guests will enjoy freshly baked scones and a delicious selection of savoury sandwiches including egg & truffle mayonnaise, slow roast English beef with horseradish cream, traditional coronation chicken, smoked salmon topped with citrus mayonnaise, and cucumber with creamy whipped salted butter.

Tis the season to sparkle and also be merry. To accompany the Winter LK Bennett Afternoon Tea, diners will enjoy a selection of loose-leaf tea from The Hansom’s extensive collection of blends or indulge in a glass of refined Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut Champagne. Carol singers will also join on Friday evenings in December from 7pm to continue the festive cheer and entertain guests with the season’s most loved carols.

Guests looking to treat themselves to an early Christmas gift, can book the LK Bennett stay package and experience true decadence. Guests will check into the hotel’s Premier Suite and be welcomed with an elegant LK Bennett silk scarf gift. Followed by a personal shopping experience in the LK Bennett shop, located on the ground floor of St. Pancras station, including an exclusive 20% off for all full price in-store purchases and finish the day with an indulgent Winter LK Bennett Afternoon Tea for two guests.

The Festive Afternoon Tea is available from 9th November 2021 – 31st January 2022 priced at £46 per person or £56 including a glass of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Brut Champagne.

For further information on the full menu, and to book please visit: https://www.thehansom.co.uk/afternoon-tea

The LK Bennett stay experience is available to book from 8th November 2021 – 31st January 2022 from £609.

For further information on the stay experience, and to book please visit: https://www.marriott.com/offers/lk-bennett-st-pancras-experience-off-33191

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Chef's Table

Three Uncles is taking authentic Hong Kong street food to Camden

Three Uncles, which has opened a second location in Camden’s new Hawley Wharf Food Hall, is bringing truly authentic Hong Kong street food to London and (in our humble opinion) changing the Asian street food game for good.

The popular Hong Kong style Cantonese roast meat kiosk, which first opened in Liverpool Street, was created by childhood friend and chefs Cheong Yew (Uncle Lim), Pui Sing Tsang (Uncle Sidney) and Mo Kwok (Uncle Mo). The eponymous ‘Three Uncles’ specialise in chopped-to-order Cantonese Roast Duck, Crispy Pork Belly and Char Siu Pork, bringing genuine Cantonese flavours to Camden’s food scene.

There are no bells and whistles at Three Uncles, and the menu is as simple as they come, but all the fanfare is reserved for the truly delicious food on offer. We tried the combination platter, mixing Three Uncles’ Cantonese Roast Duck, Char Siu Pork, and Crispy Pork Belly – the Siu Mai trifecta that offered a flavour and texture explosion in your mouth.

The Crispy Pork Belly had wafer thin yet perfectly crisped skin, while maintaining soft and tender belly meat (a difficult task even for the most gifted Sui Mei master). Meanwhile the Char Siu Pork was marinated to sweet barbecue perfection, while the Cantonese Duck balanced texture and flavour perfectly. It was so good – we ordered two – and had our second serving later that evening.

Three Uncles has also added two new Hong Kong dishes to the menu, Auntie Jun’s Char Siu Sou (sinfully delicious, sweet BBQ pork pastries) and Curry Fish balls, traditional fish balls served with Uncle Lim’s special curry sauce. Both additions boast the same comforting home-style of cooking, evoking memories of home, yet adding something fresh to the already fantastic menu.

Three Uncles, while offering truly excellent Hong Kong style comfort food, is undoubtedly leagues away from the average takeaway. As a foodie with mixed Chinese/Filipino descent, these dishes, genuinely authentic and so wonderfully executed, reminded me of busy Sunday evenings in my grandmother’s kitchen, bringing me closer to home in a way that only good food can achieve. I am thrilled to have discovered Three Uncles, and will undoubtedly be back for more.

www.threeuncles.co.uk

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Introducing Leeds’ First Ever Immersive Retail and Hospitality Space

You know it’s no secret that we love Leeds here at House of Coco Magazine. The city is constantly evolving and that is no different with the latest opening.

A brand new café and retail space, that aims to blur the lines between home and hospitality, opens late November. The Collective, based at 34 Boar Lane in Leeds city centre, is the first of its kind to open in the region. It is a working showroom where customers can take their experience home. Almost everything is for sale, including the table you’re eating your lite bites and freshly baked goods off.

Inspired by the LA laid-back, creative scene, The Collective is the brain child of Directors, Dale Wynter and Ellen Pryce, who both have extensive experience in the retail and hospitality sectors. Their combined passion and keen eye for detail led them to notice a gap in the market and they spent several years searching for the right location to launch this brand-new concept. The team was completed by the addition of Interior Designer, Rachael Easton and Shop Design and Brand Specialist, James Kent, both of whom have a wealth of experience within the hospitality and luxury retail sectors.

Speaking about how incredible things happen when people come together, Co-Director of The Collective Incorporated, Ellen Pryce says: “We wanted to create a feast for the eyes as well as offering a space where people could re-fuel with some incredible food and drinks. Guests can peruse the art and dreamy décor in a really chilled atmosphere, giving them time to immerse themselves in the great-quality, hand-crafted goods we have for sale.

The vast majority of everything you see at The Collective is available to buy. From the sofas and tables, to the kitchenware and lighting. Guests can peruse the incredible British craftsmanship of furnishing, lighting and finishes made and sourced in collaboration with manufacturers and artisans such as Tyson lighting, Stucco & Stucco, Ceramique Internationale Ltd, and Staunton & Hughes. The latter three all based in The Collective’s home of God’s own country, Yorkshire.

Rachael Easton and James Kent went on to say: “We’ve worked really hard to source the amazing British brands we stock at The Collective, who are all experts in their fields of furnishings and tableware. There isn’t anywhere else around where guests can really fall in love with a piece before deciding to take it home with them. We want to champion products made in the UK, especially Yorkshire, and preserve traditional production skills that we risk losing as a nation. We know that our customers will appreciate the craftsmanship put into these bespoke pieces.”

Most of the furniture is made to order and is customisable. Interior design experts will be on-hand to discuss bespoke furniture and finish options with guests, helping them to pick the perfect pieces to suit their home and style. For those wanting a more extensive interior design service, appointments with The Collective’s experienced, award-winning interior designers can be booked. Their years of experience within residential and commercial designing offers customers a truly unique experience, ensuring they get the interior of their dreams.

The food matches the curated design, with an instagramable menu of brunch and lunch options, including all day bowls, New York deli bagels, artisan pastries and salads. Charcuterie and cheese boards are ideal for nibbling on and are made using locally sourced ingredients.

Whether you’re meeting a friend for coffee or you’re looking for a new after-work drink spot, The Collective has got you covered with a selection of coffees from Maude Coffee, organic wine from Eden Wines and an extensive cocktail menu. Take-out food and drink options are also available.

As well as the café and retail space, The Collective has moveable bookcases that reveal cosy corners for hosting meetings or catching up on work emails. A full programme of events and creative workshops is planned for the 1,819 square foot space, located on the ground floor of 34 Boar Lane, directly opposite Leeds train station.

The Collective will not only inject some soul into an iconic building, that was previously unloved, but it will boost Leeds’ hospitality and retail sectors, that have both taken a knock over the last year.

Co-Director of The Collective, Dale Wynter, concluded: “We’re really excited to be bringing something so unique to the heart of the city. We have put together an incredible team of people who have a wealth of experience within the hospitality and interior design sectors and we are certain people will love what we have created. The location, and building, are the perfect home for The Collective and we look forward to welcoming people to experince a new way to shop and dine.”

Get social – @thecollective_inc

www.collectiveinc.co.uk

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Empire of Japan

Korean and Japanese Cuisine from Oba, Leeds

There are some of us that haven’t ventured into the city centre for a while. Sure, the variety of lockdowns we’ve had have played a part in that, but be honest, when was the last time you saw behind the Merrion Centre?

Now that they’ve got rid of the old eyesore of a building that housed the casino, and pumped a lot of money into the area, there are tons of stylish restaurants and bars to choose from.

Dominating the Arena Quarter by sticking out from the fold with a beautiful, angular purpose is Oba.

Now, at some point, you may have visited the red fronted Hang Sing Hong on Vicar Lane. It’s an Aladdin’s cave of food and ingredients as they say ‘from the orient’. Oba Kitchen and Bar is their baby.

Fusing Korean and Japanese dishes, the menu offers a mouthwatering array of favourites. Whether you’ve visited Japan or Korea and want the nostalgia of the taste of tradition, or you’re brand new to this cuisine, staff are on hand to offer advice.

Inside the vibe is clean lines and stylish but comfy chairs, mixed with cocktail bar aesthetic on the walls and behind the bar. With the floor to ceiling windows, on a dark night, it feels really cosy.

The food was fresh from the kitchen, staff were on alert and quietly attentive. Always ready to answer any questions and help out with ordering.

We went for a mixture of sushi rolls, gyoza, Kang Poon Gi (Korean sticky chicken), Beef Steak Wraps (sliced sirloin steak, garlic chip, crispy onion with Truffle Soy Sauce), and sticky rice (always a favourite).

Book a table now, see this as your reason to get out and see a part of Leeds you may not have known was there yet, and find your new favourite Korean and Japanese fusion.

Oba Kitchen and Bar is where the magic of fusion happens. Obaleeds.co.uk.

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Food & Drink

Three of the Best Eco-Friendly Coffees Brands

1. Bottleshot Cold Brew Coffee

I know that the weather is getting colder… But I still enjoy nothing more than a delicious Bottleshot Oat Milk Cold Brew to start the day bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. Bottleshot’s eco credentials match its velvety flavour.

Bottleshot sources its beans only from non-profit ‘Rainforest Alliance’. Its aluminium cans are made from pre-recycled materials and its label is fully recyclable. Plus, all leftover grinds are given to YMCA’s ‘Urban Mushroom’, who recycle them to grow vegetables.

Find out more: bottleshotbrew.com.

2. Land Girls Single Origin Coffee

The dark and spicy Sumatran coffee from Land Girls comes with an inspiring story. The beans are sourced in a female-led Coffee Cooperative founded by Ibu Rahmah. She has been in the coffee business for more than 20 years and established the co-op to help women provide to their families. Land Girls has a monthly subscription service where you can get their eco-friendly coffee delivered to your door each month.

In addition, you can try their divine Peruvian coffee for smooth and silky brew.

Find out more: land-girls.co.uk.

3. Grind Coffee Pods

Have a Nespresso machine? Find your pretty pastel pink Grind tin filled with twenty compostable coffee pods. All certified organic by the Soil Association and ethically sourced from sustainable farms around the world. In addition, Grind delivers every order carbon-positive and you can choose from top-notch house, dark, light, or decaf blends.

Once your tin is empty? Order a letterbox-friendly refill from grind.co.uk of course.

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