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Food & Drink

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Food & Drink

Après Ski all year Round with Alpes London & the Raclette Brothers

Team Coco checks out Alpes London, the Raclette Brother’s new semi-permanent opening in Pop Brixton; bringing all the wonderfully cheesy flavours of the Alpes right into the heart of South London. So if you’re a raclette lover looking for an unpretentious après-ski (in London), then Alpes London will definitely be your new favourite pop-up.

We make our way to Pop Brixton on a sunny Sunday afternoon. The place is buzzing despite the usual lazy vibe signalling the dreaded end of the weekend. For those who haven’t had the chance to visit the South London location, Pop Brixton is a melting pot of different restaurants and bars, all built conveniently into container vans. Alpes London is located in prime real estate right above the entrance, where guests can view all the happenings down below. With options for both indoor and outdoor dining, Alpes offers is a casual alternative to Street-food dining, without all the faff of being in a fancy restaurant – i.e. no sitting on steps or leaning on tiny cocktail tables.

We are greeted right away by the extremely charming Jaime, 1/2 of the Raclette brothers, and front-of-house for Alpes London. As we start off the evening with a bottle of their delicious “Space Cat” wine while Steve, the other half of the Raclette Brother’s, whips up some truly delectable dishes from their Swiss inspired menu. Alpes London champions using only the best producers in Europe; after all the brother’s do come from a long line of producers as well. We start off with some deep fried olives stuffed with goat’s cheese, followed by their vegan offering, the wild garlic asparagus drizzled with hazelnut pesto, and then the melt-in-your-mouth beef cheek pancetta. The piece de resistance however, is definitely the Raclette Jurasienne. A giant wheel of Raclette cheese, melted to perfection and then scraped directly onto a plate of roast Queen Anne potatoes, pickles, and crispy pancetta. Absolutely mouth-watering.

All this and more puts Alpes London on top of London’s culinary pops ups, proving that Raclette is just as good in the summer as it is in the winter slopes. If not for anything else, do pop in and have a chat with the Raclette brothers themselves. Beyond proving their literal hands-on approach to food, with Jaime working front-of-house, and Steve in the kitchen — the brothers are always up for a good laugh over some beers and some truly delicious raclette.

Alpes London is in Pop Brixton, 49 Brixton Road, and open from Wednesday-Sundays until 11pm

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A taste of luxury: Raspberry macaroons with white mint ice cream and 23-ct. gold leaf

Gold, in all fairness, is a symbol of luxury. Almost all of us have seen ladies wearing bangles and necklaces made of gold at some point or the other in our lives, haven’t we? Well, of course we have. Gold is considered a status symbol. It brings to light a person’s financial well being. Getting to wear gold is a luxury. It’s a luxury that makes you realize how far you have come in life.

Interestingly, gold isn’t just used for making ornaments. Gold is edible. Yes, you heard that right. Gold is very much edible. It’s an expensive exercise, but the experience is totally worth it. Have you ever had gold for food? Well, if you haven’t then you need to try a few mouth-watering desserts right away.

Here’s a mouth-watering dessert that is garnished using gold. The dessert is named Raspberry macaroons with white mint ice cream and 23-ct. gold leaf. Well, here’s the recipe for you.

Ingredients:

  • Egg whites (90g)
  • Icing sugar (180 g)
  • Sugar (20g)
  • Almond flour (100 g)
  • Raspberries (500 g)
  • Mint ice cream (300 g)
  • 1 Edible gold Leaf

The procedure

  • Begin by mixing almond flour and icing sugar. Sift it until you obtain a homogenous powder.
  • After you’re done, begin blending half of those raspberries. Make sure the raspberries are washed and cleaned thoroughly.
  • Whip up the egg (whites)to a stiff peak by adding sugar gradually.
  • Add flour powder and sugar in a bowl and mix it thoroughly.
  • Lastly, add those blended raspberries
  • Put a pastry bag to use and make a few small discs. Use a baking sheet with a parchment-paper covering to bake it in the oven. Bake it at 150 degree celsius for about 15 minutes.
  • You can now start preparing the ganache by blending the remaining raspberries. Fill the macaroons once they are cool.
  • Take a serving plate and create a bed using the remaining raspberries (blended). Place the macaroon over it.
  • Cut raspberries and get some mint ice cream.
  • Take a leaf from the booklet. Make sure you hold it using a tissue paper. Carefully place it on the surface that needs to be decorated.
  • Here’s a delicacy for you if you happen to be a die-hard chocolate lover. Try the Sacher Torte with 23-ct. gold crumbs.

Ingredients

  • For the cake:
  • Egg yolks (4)
  • Egg whites (3)
  • Sugar (120g)
  • Flour (70g)
  • Butter (140 g)
  • Dark chocolate (175 g)
  • Apricot jam (200 g)
  • Salt (just a pinch)
  • cake yeast (half packet)
  • Vanilla essence
  • Edible gold crumbs

For the glaze:

  • Dark chocolate (50 gr)

The procedure

  • Take 40g of sugar and mix it with salt, vanilla, and butter until the mixture turns creamy.
  • Melt the dark chocolate.
  • Start adding the egg yolks into the creamy butter mixture. Get the egg whites and whip them. Add 80g of sugar to a stiff peak.
  • Add half of those egg whites into the mixture and fold.
  • Then add the remaining egg whites stiff peak.
  • Mix the creamy batter until it smoothens. Add half a pack of cake yeast.
  • Pour the mixture obtained into a cake tin.Make sure it is buttered.
  • Bake it at 140° in an oven for about 90 minutes.
  • Once cooked, take it out and put it in a cake tin. Turn the cake tin turn it upside down. Then, let it rest for about three hours. Add some apricot jam over it. Decorate it using a few edible gold flakes/crumbs.

So, it’s time to taste gold. It’s an experience you would never want to forget. You can try and prepare these desserts on your own if you’re confident enough.

It’s time to dig in!!! Enjoy the luxury, folks

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#CocoKitchen: A diverse culinary feast at One Tower Bridge, London

The capital is full of amazing places to eat. From Asian fusion to artisan Pizza, cuisines from around the world are usually just a Tube stop away. Our girl Jenna has always loved London, especially it’s unique gastronomical side. So when an invite came in to discover all there is to eat at One Tower Bridge, we stuck her on the first train to Kings Cross…

“To me, walking across Tower Bridge never gets old, especially at night. With the bustling crowds and lights of the city, you’d be forgiven for forgetting to look down. But if you just take a peek over the bridge and look for the iconic green umbrellas of The Ivy, you’ll stumble upon one of the best hidden gems in the London foodie scene. One Tower Bridge is London’s most exciting dining destination, where you can experience the ultimate in the riverside dining and culture beside some of the capital’s most famous landmarks.

By Night

One Tower Bridge currently offers 8 options of dining, with views of the picturesque Tower Bridge. Deciding to partake in a true taster experience of three of the most renowned venues, we kicked things off with cocktails and starters at The Coal Shed. Placed just a stones-throw from Tower Bridge and spanning over two floors, diners in the main restaurant are able to watch the chefs at work in the open kitchen in its relaxed, contemporary take on old-world glamour.

Sitting down at a low-lit table, we took a glance at their a la carte and pre-theatre menus and ordered a round of cocktails. The Bridge Theatre is one of the most contemporary theatres to be built in London and the largest commercial theatre to be built outside the West End for over 80 years, so The Coal Shed’s pre-theatre menu must be a huge hit. Opting for Devilled Devon Crab on Toast and Chargrilled Octopus, we sipped on a Clear Royale cocktail (an Elderflower take on the classic Kir Royale) and took in the atmosphere. Born in Devon myself, I have an absolute infatuation with seafood and these dishes definitely didn’t disappoint. Crab Rarebit is something I’d never had before, but it was totally indulgent.

Reluctantly leaving the warm welcome of The Coal Shed, we made our way to a real star of the show, Tom Simmons Tower Bridge. Award winning Welsh Chef and MasterChef finalist Tom Simmons showcases his relaxed and elegant cooking style in his first London venture; Tom Simmons. Tom is at the forefront of the kitchen providing superb dishes from thoughtfully sourced ingredients, so it would have been rude of us not to go for one of his daily specials.

Enjoying a glass of Champagne, I delved into one of the best Rabbit dishes i’d ever tasted. It’s full ingredients escape me, but it’s rich flavour is permanently etched onto my taste buds! This, paired with their signature crispy potatoes (which are basically deep fried Dauphinois – delish) was the perfect way to satisfy my appetite.

After a whole host of indulgent Seafood and delicious meat, it was time to get some brownie points from Mother Nature. Popular US vegan eatery, by CHLOE., has taken prime position at the foot of Tower Bridge for its second UK opening. by CHLOE. – a US export – has successfully created a brand that meets the need in London for delicious, wholesome and affordable plant-based food; serving up breakfast through to dinner and late night munchies. The way I would describe this place is like The Mighty Boosh meets a teenage girls bedroom – it’s WACKY. From the high end interiors of The Coal Shed to the Michelin-style dining at Tom Simmons, this was a little bit of a culture shock. But after a fair few cocktails, totally entertaining!

With swinging chairs, a puppy, CBD brownies and cookie sandwiches – it was a Hippy’s dream. But not really the indulgent dessert place I was looking for. It’s kinda like a Five Guys for Vegans – and we were definitely overdressed. Something I didn’t think possible in this postcode! However, it made for some excellent boomerangs, and the sugar propelled us wayyyy into the night.

The Morning After

After a crazy night at Cirque Le Soir and a beautiful stay at the Sunborn Yacht Hotel, we just had to check out The Ivy for their renowned Brunch. Standing strong adjacent from Tower Bridge, The Ivy Tower Bridge serves modern British classics from dawn until dusk, as well as offering a spectacular al-fresco experience for those wanting to soak in the river breeze and stunning back drop of Tower Bridge.

We fancied the classic up-market vibes of the main brasserie, so took our seats for probably the UK’s most indulgent hangover cure. Ordering fresh juices and probably the best Bloody Mary i’ve ever had – we gazed over their extensive menu. For me, protein is always required after a night London clubbing and copious amounts of Cristal, so the Truffled Orzo Pasta was top of my list. This, accompanied by the Crispy Duck salad was completely satisfying and lead us directly to our mains.

As a Northern girl, I do occasionally crave gravy at the weekends! This, with a need for protein, lead me to the Steak sandwich “French dip”. This sandwich is an indulgent take on the classic Steak Sandwich, with roast beef, caramelised onions, horseradish mayonnaise, Burgundy sauce dip (the gravy!) and thick cut chips. It was exactly what I needed, and I can almost taste it now as I type! My party partner went for the HLT open sandwich which was a medley of Grilled halloumi, avocado, black olives, red pepper, tomato, baby gem and herb mayonnaise.

One Tower Bridge officially took us from dusk til’ dawn and should be top of any hit-list for a London weekend away. Whether you’re looking for sophisticated dining, have a dire case of the munchies or want to boozy brunch until the afternoon…One Tower Bridge has your back. With five other options to choose from including London’s first ever bar dedicated to prosecco, Prosecco House, as well as Rosa’s Thai Café and Gunpowder which opened in August – we’ll definitley be back!”________________________________________________________________________________________________________

One Tower Bridge, Tower Bridge Road, Tower Bridge, London SE1 2AA

https://www.lifebyonetowerbridge.london

Exciting new restaurants launching throughout 2018 include Custard , Vapiano and Temakinko. Read more about Jenna’s weekend in the big smoke in December’s Volume 14: The Islands Issue.

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Behind the bar

Coping with High Street Changes: An interview with The Perfumed Garden owner, Carole Taylor

While the humble high street is rumoured to become a thing of the past, this couldn’t seem further from the truth considering the number of people who stopped in to say hello when we met with Leeds’ independent cafe owner, Carole Taylor.

“[if I were a plant] I’d probably be a something like a Eucalyptus tree – simply because they’re really hardy, they last for years and they make people feel so good because they smell amazing.”

Part of the bustling Chapel Allerton high street Carole’s unique florist come cafe, The Perfumed Garden, is part of a wider local business community.

Having previously owned six shops, Carole and her husband, Robin, decided to sell up and go travelling. However, fate had other ideas and they ended up taking over Robin’s mother’s florist shop which needed serious modernisation.

After redesigning and developing the shop one of her corporate clients, who knew about Carole’s love for coffee, offered her a coffee machine in exchange for three large bouquets. Once the order was completed, both Carole and Robin were shocked when a van turned up to unload a professional barista machine.

It sadly wasn’t until Robin’s mother passed away that the coffee machine got some proper use. They held the wake at the shop and invited all the guests and the florist’s regulars to join. When their hired barista cancelled last minute, they both jumped behind the counter and served coffee until 7 o’clock that night.

“[all customers were saying] We should serve coffee all the time. It would be really nice in this space, it makes you feel really calm – it would be nice to have a drink.”

Carole, who doesn’t eat dairy, had long since noticed that there was a gap in the market for something special.

“Everything we do is vegan – I won’t say I’m vegan – I’m plant-based. Because there was nowhere else around here doing this, and we’re a flower and plant shop, it makes sense to serve coffees with non-dairy and have cakes made from plants – because that’s what we are.”

Flash forward 18 months and The Perfumed Garden is delighting both plant and coffee lovers alike under one roof. However, Carole has noticed the change in the local high street. “It’s not the same at all – we’ve got 3 supermarkets within a really tiny space.”

With an Aldi, a Lidl and a Tesco all on The Perfumed Garden’s doorstep, competition is hard to keep up with. But Carole, who has an infectious positive personality, see’s the brighter side of things.

“The good thing about this is it’s stopped people coming in here and spending £2.99 on a bunch because for us that’s a lot of money – to buy those materials to make that tiny bunch.”

While the shop does have a lot of loyal, repeat customers, Carole has noticed a drop in those one-off shoppers.

“People will pick a supermarket over a small indie shop.”

“Because we’re retailers ourselves, we go to other retailers because we know what situation they’re in. We know how difficult it is to get that customer to actually come through your door and part with some money.”

She does, however, think that selling the coffee has made a difference to her business.

“The good thing about the coffee for us is that most people know that they can afford a cup of tea or a coffee. So, even if they haven’t been in before they’ll come in and buy a drink then have a look around and go ‘oh, actually – you’re not very expensive.

They might not buy anything there and then we know they’re going to come back because they’ve been in and kind of broken that barrier”

Looking to the future, Carole is confident that things are looking up for local business owners.

“I do feel like this year, more than any other year, people do seem to be making more of an effort to spend their five or ten pounds in a smaller shop.

People are really starting to think ‘hang on a second, your high-street is going to look really ugly if all us little independents can’t pay our rents. So, fingers crossed, next year I’m hoping will be a cracking year.”

The Perfumed Garden, 19 Harrogate Rd, Leeds LS7 3PD

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Croatia

How to spend 36 hours in Split with Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Split

The autumn season always gets our wanderlust going, so while Londoners huddle in front of roaring fires, warming their hands on hot cups off cocoa; we’reescaping the city for a cheeky 36 hour weekend in Split, at none other than the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Split of course.

How do you spend 36 hours in Split in the middle of autumn? Let #TeamCoco babe, Hannah Tan-Gillies, show you how.

Friday

Split is a great weekend destination because it is only a 2 hour flight from London Heathrow. After landing in Split airport, make your way to Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Split, which is only a short 20 minute drive away! We arrived just in time for the debut of their new wing, and stayed in one of the stunning suites.

With panoramic sea views, you’d be hard done to find anything better on the Dalmatian coast. We made our way to the Casper Grill for some fabulous Croatian cuisine. Be sure to try the Grgić Pošip wine, it is truly delicious and the sommelier will even give you a short history on Croatian wine.

Saturday

We kick off Saturday morning with a hearty breakfast at the Fig Leaf and a hefty seeing of the stunning coastal views at the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Split’s sprawling terrace. Diocletian’s Palace, is just short 10 minute drive from the hotel and is the best place to catch up on some of Croatia’s truly interesting history. Our guide, Dino Ivancic, led us through the winding underground catacombs, each one revealing a new chapter in Split’s history. Including a few familiar spots that Game of Throne’s fans will surely recognise.

There are so many other idyllic little islands on the Dalmatian coast that you can discover. Channelling Goldie Hawn circa Overboard, we hopped on our own yacht and sped through the azure waters on the Apennine Peninsula. We docked on the island of Brac where we climbed to the highest peak of Adriatic, where you can see as far as the horizon will allow. The Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Split has their own private bay area on the beach, with a staircase that leads straight up to the hotel.

In the evening, make your way back to the Fig Leaf for some truly delectable Croatian fare, live music, exciting performances, and more cocktails — obviously. During our stay, we even got treated to some fabulous fireworks!

Sunday

Before leaving the hotel, we each spent some time in the amazing Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Split Spa. The 2000 metre spa has just come out of a recent refurbishment and reflects; and offers up some fantastic treatments so you can get some well-deserved relaxation. Try the full body massage, and spend some time finding your inner zen in the spa’s indoor pool.

Prices at The Radisson Blu Resort & Spa Split start at 90EUR a night. For more information visit Radissonblu.com.
Want more tips on how to spend a fabulous weekend in Croatia? Then do check out Croatia.hr
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Shaking Up London’s Burger Scene: The Vurger Co

With the UK going vega-ga over Veganuary this year and veganism topping every food trend list of 2018, #TeamCoco has her ears pricked for the best vegan openings of the year. And boy, is there a special place about to open in the capital soon. We sent our very own vegan on the team, Rachael Lindsay, to try every dish in The Vurger Co’s test kitchen so that you know exactly what to expect ahead of this 100% vegan burger bar’s opening on the 24 March…

So I tried Veganuary, and it seems like I am still vegan…I astonish myself as I write this as I always said I could never do it, said I was too addicted to cheese, said that veganism was for crazies and health freaks. But then I tried it, couldn’t get over the health, environmental and ethical benefits, and here I am.

But one of the things I have found the most challenging in becoming vegan is eating out. I am a self-confessed foodie and love trying new dishes in restaurants. So it has been a big change for me to have my menu options limited. Sure, quite a few places now have vegan plates on the menu, but to have a whole menu to enjoy, that is reserved for meat-eaters.

But to my delight, there are veggie-only joints popping up all over London now, thanks to a greater understanding and appreciation of the vegan diet. One of those new openings is The Vurger Co, which is due to open later this month in Richmix Square, Brick Lane.

The Vurger Co has been a stalwart of festivals and pop-ups for a few years now, so it has plenty of fans counting down the days until the opening of their new vegan restaurant on 24 March 2018. And omnivores, don’t panic, over half of The Vurger Co’s loyal customers are non-vegan. There will be shakes, coffee, beer and wine on the menu as well as some seriously, seriously good vegan burgers.

I was lucky enough to try every single burger which will be on that menu. Each one is very different, proving how diverse vegan food can be, and each one is, I promise, ludicrously tasty.

My personal favourite is the Classic which is the vegan take on a classic cheeseburger and is filled with smoky black beans, chargrilled red peppers and drips with melty vegan cheese, some of the best vegan cheese I have ever had. I am also a huge fan of the MLT, mixing borlotti beans and mushrooms with a generous dollop of rocket, sundried tomato and walnut pesto.

The Vurger Co’s traditional bestseller is the Auberger; a smoky aubergine and chickpea patty loaded with tabasco chipotle source and red onion. And for those who like spice, the Holy Habanero is the best choice with its sweetcorn fritter, crunchy spiced almonds, homemade salsa and chilli mayo.

I took my non-vegan partner to try out the vurgers too. Having taken a trip to Burger King the day before and being a self-confessed meat burger lover, even he had to admit that these burgers were pretty damn good.

The owners of The Vurger Co are a lovely, down-to-earth couple who discovered how easy it is to be vegan on a trip to California, and decided to leave their careers in fashion buying and banking to pursue their vegan burger dream. Their enthusiasm for the food they create is infectious, and their determination to make people think of more than portobello mushrooms when vegan burgers are mentioned is something I seriously respect. And rather than feeling threatened by all of the other new vegan places opening their doors in London, they are happy to add something new into the burgeoning vegan scene in the capital.

So go along yourself and see if you love these burgers as much as I do.If you call in, tweet us which vurger is your favourite and how they compare to your favourite meat version at @house_of_coco. We can’t wait to hear what you think! For all our lovely vegan readers out there, check out our other vegan features for mouthwatering desserts, and some of the best vegan eats in Leeds: https://www.houseofcoco.net/the-best-vegan-desserts-to-get-you-through-veganuary/
https://www.houseofcoco.net/plant-based-tastes-5-vegan-vegetarian-restaurants-you-have-to-try-in-leeds/

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Peanut butter machine run by #GirlBoss Doris & ice-cream parlours from the 40s : The Farmers’ Market, LA

I’m sure we’ve all been to a Farmers’ Market in the last couple of months, hell some of us will have been to one this week. So, it was with some skepticism that #TeamCoco rocked up to the Farmers’ Market in LA. Nestled next to famous shopping spot The Grove and the TV studio magic of the CBS Studios, this is an unlikely spot for a slice of vintage americana but if you take one thing from this article; this is so much more than a market.

We’re met by Maritza from the market’s team who give us a colourful tour of the market’s history and points out some of the 70-odd merchants at the site who are all small, family run outfits that are carefully vetted and nurtured by the market.

While Maritza isn’t available generally for tours she tipped us off about www.meltingpottours.com who run a 2.5 hour stroll around the market with sampling included. We’ll be back to try out their tour next time.

Any history buff will die in the presence of the stories within the market’s walls. In 1880 A. F Gilmore bought two dairy farms in what is now Los Angeles and in 1934 he was approached by two local entrepreneurs with an idea for a ‘village’ where farmers could sell their produce…

Fast forward to 2017, through silver screen legends like Shirley Temple working behind the counter of Brock’s Candies during a 1936 fundraiser, Marilyn Munroe opening a cheesecake stall (yes, really), Frank Sinatra hanging out at Patsy’s Pizza (that you can STILL visit today) and a little bit about a flying lion called Gilmore ; you can turn up, shop for souvenirs, eat great food and grab a local beer and watch live music.

We visited E.B’s Wine & Beer for a local beer flight and a live pianist, Pampas Grill for South American BBQ, Magee’s House of Nuts to chat to the market’s longest serving employee, Doris and Bennett’s Ice-Cream for an epic hot fudge sundae.

The Market is open 9am- 9pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 8pm on Saturday and 10am to 7pm Sunday. We’d recommend heading there for early evening to soak up the atmosphere, we caught a Beatles cover band while we were there!

Find out more about Los Angeles with Discover Los Angeles:

One of the world’s most dynamic and diverse destinations, Los Angeles comprises 88 cities and is considered the cultural hub of the Pacific Rim. Home to near-perfect weather, 75 miles of jaw-dropping shoreline, more museums than any other U.S. city and an award-winning culinary scene, Los Angeles presents endless possibilities that keep its more than 45 million annual visitors entertained. For more information, visit discoverLosAngeles.com , facebook.com/LosAngelesFan, or follow @discoverLA on Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

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A Night at 11 Cadogan Gardens, Chelsea

I stepped out of the London underground and into Sloane Square in the midst of rush hour. Relieved to be out in the open, I almost forgot where it was that I had arrived.

It was dark and wet; the perfect recipe for a miserable mood. But not for me. I found satisfaction in the crunching of the autumnal leaves beneath my feet, and the twinkling of the Christmas lights that lined the Sloane Square store fronts. I weaved my way through the crowds of people, admiring the bow wrapped around the Tiffany & Co building and peering in at all that sparkled in the Cartier window display. I slipped off down a cobbled side street and stood for a moment; taking in the quiet and calm of Chelsea’s prestigious residential area.

Within minutes, I stumbled upon 11 Cadogan Gardens.

The flag of Great Britain wavered in the wind above the grand hotel entrance reminding me I was in the country’s capital, while the distinct sound of my boots brushing against the doormat reminded me of home. The sound of my suitcase wheels followed me into the hotel and to reception. “Good evening, Miss Smith” said a smartly dressed man in a suit. I was taken aback by surprise. How did he know who I was, I asked. To which he modestly smiled and nodded his head. I guessed it was just that kind of hotel.

Built by Lord Chelsea in the late 19th century, 11 Cadogan Gardens was originally four separate Victorian townhouses, which explains the ‘hickledy-pickledy’ myriad of corridors, staircases and hallways throughout the hotel. Steeped in history, the stairways of the four-storey building and the drawing room are lined with old-fashioned portraits while the original elevator requires you to pull back the caged door upon entering. Jittery the elevator may be, but I saw it only as a reminder of the remarkable building that I had the pleasure of staying in.

I stepped out of the elevator and followed the chaperone to my suite, who placed my bag inside and left me to it. I shut the door behind him, took just two steps into the room, and stopped.

Three low-level sash windows soared up to the ceiling with gold lustrous curtains hanging heavily either side. A three-piece suite encircled a small coffee table with an array of magazines fanned out on the glass top. A grand four-poster bed lied beyond with two oversized lampshades sat either side. My eyes didn’t know where to look next. I resisted the urge to dive into the silky sheets and hibernate from the wintery night outside, and continued over to the bathroom.

I slowly pressed down the door handle and peered into the bathroom as though I was sneaking into somebody else’s home. White marble drenched the bathroom where mirrors did not. Light bounced from mirror to mirror and the gleam of polished marble had me lost for words (a rare occurrence, might I add).

I suddenly remembered that I had a dinner reservation downstairs in just twenty minutes, and that I should be getting ready rather than swooning over the suite that I never wanted to leave.

I tiptoed downstairs to the Hans’ Bar and Grill and was seated at a white marble table beneath a glass opening in the ceiling and a collection of lowly hung trailing plants. The atmosphere felt casual and relaxed, while the decor was seamlessly beautiful. Natural brick walls complimented the brown leather booth seating that lined one corner of the restaurant, while another corner was a perfect pairing of green and grey.

Before I could even think about food, my eyes wandered straight to the cocktail list. I opted for a white wine sangria, and ordered some cauliflower cheese croquettes to nibble on while I spent some time being incredibly indecisive about what to choose from the menu. I opted for the quinoa salad to start which was a refreshing mix of broccoli, beetroot, pomegranate, and spiced yoghurt.

The starter was light, which I was thankful for when I saw the size of the fillet steak. I kept it simple and ordered a side of french fries and red wine sauce. As a lover of steak, I tend to be a bit of a steak snob. Though, I have to admit, it came as quite the surprise that the Hans’ Bar and Grill steak is up there with one of the best steaks I’ve had in London. It was cooked to perfection and quite literally melted in my mouth. There really was no need for a steak knife. The red wine sauce was the perfect companion and I didn’t leave a single mouthful on my plate.

With not much room left, but a dessert menu that simply could not be resisted, I ordered the chocolate fondant. I’m often disappointed with chocolate fondants as they’re either too rich or don’t even have enough sauce – I hardly ever get one that’s just right; until now. I pressed my spoon straight through the middle and the chocolate came oozing out and spilled out onto the plate. The hazelnut ice cream was the perfect accompaniment, and I ate every last bit. Not bad for somebody who was feeling full.

Another white wine sangria washed it all down and I made my way back upstairs to my heavenly suite. After throwing all sorts of lotions and potions into the bath I got into bed and drifted off into the deepest sleep.

I woke in the morning and ordered a light breakfast in bed. To be honest, I couldn’t believe I felt even the slightest bit hungry after the meal I’d had the night before. I tucked into a pain au chocolate and sipped on an americano beneath the sheets, before jumping into the shower and getting ready to hit the streets of Chelsea.

The iconic English boutique hotel is nestled among the residential properties near Sloane Square in the heart of Chelsea, just a stones throw away from Knightsbridge. And we all know what Chelsea and Knightsbridge are known for… shopping, of course! I wandered out of the hotel into London’s most aspirational shopping district and walked past the likes of Saint Laurent, Prada, Chanel and of course, Harvey Nichols and Harrods.

11 Cadogan Gardens is the perfect base for a bit of Christmas shopping in the capital, or even a night of sheer in-suite relaxation and upscale dining. Whatever your reason for staying in the capital, 11 Cadogan Gardens is the perfect choice.

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Food & Drink

#GIRLBOSSESOFGREATBRITAIN – The One with Tequila (it makes us happy!)

House of Coco had the joy of meeting the fabulous Cleo Rocos, creator of the 100% agave AquaRiva tequila and organic agave syrup, to talk being the only British tequila creator and producer (tequilera), advice from Freddie Mercury and the ethos of business over a couple of AquaRiva cocktails. It’s a hard life!

HOC: Cleo, so wonderful to meet you. So tell us all about AquaRiva, your tequila brand?

CR: Fabulous to meet you too. Do you know what having my own brand wasn’t ever the plan, it was a passion like falling in love with a rock and roll artist and finding yourself on the road!

I hated what I thought was tequila and I think most people are the same. I was in Mexico about 16 years ago in a small place completely off the beaten track. I saw this really glamorous lady in her 60s sitting by the pool in an unnecessarily floaty dress who was sipping from a glass and laughing campily. I asked the waiter was she was drinking as she was having such a wonderful time. He said it was tequila and I reeled in horror! I asked him to bring me what she was drinking and that was the turning point.

From this point I realised we’d all been cheated by not having real tequila! I started to pursue it and learn everything I could. My passion and knowledge grew and in 2009 I received a prestigious award from the tequila industry (CNIT), the only female honoured! I created AquaRiva in 2011. I feel that people are so worried about what they are eating but drink blindly. I feel really strongly that the tequila we’ve all had a horrible experience with is mixed tequila which is only 51% tequila, the rest is industrial alcohol, sugar, colourings, additives; it’s really detrimental to the industry!

HOC: Sounds incredible! How on earth did you go about creating your own tequila?

CR: In 2011 I went out to make a 100% agave tequila with no backing, just a passion. I’m scared to look back as I don’t know how it happened and I’m still scared! I spent 11 months working with a master blender in Mexico as I wanted to create a fantastic tequila. One that is truly great and that isn’t expensive.

The first thing I did was to go the bartenders and found out what bottle they like to work with and they all said a wine bottle. Then I wanted to work on the label. The label for my first tequila was by a 17 year old art student I met on the tube! I had a throbbing tax bill a few years ago and I had the chance to go into the Celeb Big Brother house. Under normal circumstances I’d rather boil my head in rhino phlegm but under these it was the only reasonable option! When I came out of the house I met him on the tube and he was asking me about being on TV and I noticed paint on his hand and I asked if he was decorating and he said he was an art student. I gave him my card and he sent over some examples of his work and I fell in love with it. I commissioned him to design my label, saying it had to feel like the first day of holiday!

I don’t want my tequila to look like other tequilas. I love my bottle and label they are straight forward and mean we can get on with enjoying the tequila. I don’t believe in the ridiculous packaging that most tequila comes in, there’s no point! AquaRiva is the read deal – not an imposter in an artisan bottle. It has won the best of the best in the world’s biggest tequila judging in the USA. I am so throbbingly excited about that.

HOC: And then you brought your tequila over here. How did you start finding your customers?

CR: We had this container of tequila coming over from Mexico and I thought, this isn’t really my field, what do I do? I saw there was a new flight path with Virgin Atlantic to Mexico and called them up to see if I could get a meeting to show them AquaRiva. I got the meeting and went too see them with the tequila and they took it. You can still get it in the clubhouses! So, Virgin was our first customer.

Recently I signed a huge distribution deal. Other than that I was literally going bar to bar to spread the word. I do masterclasses all over the place, in bars, in Waitrose, educating people about the sugar and other junk they are consuming. AquaRiva is a big little brand and I want people to be able to trust in my tequila. I’m in this for the long haul and when I’m doing demonstrations in Waitrose these people come in with odd questions who we just know have been sent in by the bigger brands! I do love tequila people but what happens often is that customers think that they are buying a boutique tequila brand not knowing that it has actually been bought up by a larger company a few years before and then corners get cut and the product quality suffers, telling a different story! There are no secrets with AquaRiva, I used to have my mobile number on the website, anyone could call me to ask questions!

HOC: We love how close you are to your tequila and agave syrup brand, do you ever see yourself moving further away from it?

CR: I am so passionate about it. I go to the fields where the agave is grown and see the sexy Beyonce agaves that get used in our 100% agave tequila and syrup. AquaRiva Organic Agave syrup is the highest quality available, gluten free, low GI and is used by people like Jamie Oliver, Gordon Ramsey and Gino D’Campo which makes me hugely proud.

I just want everyone to have the experience I had! I want my tequila to feel like the first day of a holiday which is how you feel when you drink it. [You feel] more happy and divine, more like Mykonos, Ibiza and Monte Carlo.

Not so long ago, I was invited to speak at King’s College. The other people who were speaking had notes and iPads and I just got up there and said “I can just tell you what happened, I’m still on the journey”! On the panel discussion we were asked what the biggest drive was for our businesses and I said it was enthusiasm and passion. You don’t feel pain, you see where you need to be and you aim for it!

I own 100% of my business and, if I’m honest, I can’t see myself putting the same amount of energy into something I don’t own. When it’s yours you half dream ideas at 3.30am in the morning and suddenly an email pops back into your head that you didn’t send….If I didn’t own it I don’t know if I could get by on the little sleep I do get!

I remember Freddie Mercury once told me (when I was first getting into television) to always remember the early days. The days when you are scared and don’t know what it’s going on, those are the best days. Once things happen people try to box you. I also feel that you aren’t pushing hard enough if you don’t feel like a lemming clinging to the clifftop!

HOC: Looking at everything you’ve achieved in your career to date we’d say you definitely have an entrepreneurial spirit, where does that come from?

CR: My life has just come together, all the best things just seem to happen! It truly all started as I was late for a ballet class running across a carpark and I’m scared to think what could have happened if I had been on time. It’s all about the moments! I always feel like I’m running through the fire and I hope I can make it through. You have to move on your gut instinct to stay ahead.

For instance, we had this situation where we had contracts coming in and our prices were going up and I needed to pre-buy tequila, fast! So I went to the HSBC bank and I knew I had to get the money. We met at 9:30am and I arrived with my tequila and freshly squeezed lime and my agave and told them all about my brand. We’re all in a boardroom and we shook up some cocktails; they tried not to look too shocked. Needless to say, the meeting went well!

I’m experience and passion drive about building the brand. Money doesn’t matter to me, the brand matters.

HOC: You said you are one of few female tequila makers, what’s it like being a woman in this industry?

It’s a very male dominated industry and I don’t know if it’s because I have brothers and love being with men but I’ve been treated with nothing but respect. I think people can tell that I’m serious! Something I’ve learnt as well is that women have amazing palates and we have far more receptors than men, it’s a natural thing. I never consider myself a woman in business at all, it gives me a strange sense of fear as there are some business women who hate men! The second you say you are a woman in business you create a divide and I honestly don’t think it matters. Sometimes I have to be reminded that I’m a woman as I just don’t think about it.

HOC: We’ve seen some fabulous famous fans of AquaRiva, how do you go about marketing the tequila and agave syrup?

CR: I was invited by CNN to do an interview and it went global to 290m homes which was unbelievable! We also do things like Twitter, Facebook and recently got going on instagram. It’s so funny, when I was doing TV if someone said they were following you you’d call the police!

I do love people but I have a bit of discomfort with the whole selfie culture! I am lucky to have a number of great celeb friends but I’d rather die than ask them to promote my brand. So when they do it’s because they want to, Holly Willoughby recently instagrammed AquaRiva which was great!

HOC: You wrote a book about ‘The Power of Positive Drinking’ , what does a good cocktail mean to you?

CR: We have the best AquaRiva parties, it’s brought so many people together. It’s all about being the favourite version of yourself – not being the office version of yourself. Cocktails should be the catalyst for those magicky moments. The taxman can’t take your memories – yet!

The book I wrote was not for the drink industry but the customers and tells stories of evenings that started with a particular cocktail! Stories and moments that wouldn’t have happened without that one drink. I really feel that people don’t dance enough – you just need to go out and throw your body around. I think let’s just have a party – when I see a table at the start of the evening I want to know if I can dance on it. Oh, the number of chandeliers I’ve misjudged the size of! If you don’t have a good story, what’s the point. We have to be going up and down in life to be alive.

Everyone is so marketed to, people worry about age and I believe that it really doesn’t matter. You are either fabulous and you get more fabulous or you aren’t! Life is a journey, there’s no such thing as a mistake. You just think ‘that wasn’t very pleasant, I won’t do that again’. Everyone is trying to pile guilt on but we should just enjoy it.

Life is a journey, there’s no such thing as a mistake. You just think ‘that wasn’t very pleasant’ I won’t do that again. Everyone is trying to pile guilt on but we should just enjoy it.

HOC: Cleo, you are a fabulous girl boss and we can attest that AquaRiva is so superior to tequila we’ve been drinking so far. You’ve opened our eyes to the power of positive drinking and let’s share another Paloma really soon!

You can try the fabulous AquaRiva tequila and syrup in great bars around the country and purchase online at retailers such as Waitrose, The Whisky Exchange and Drinks Direct.

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Food & Drink

Martini: Masters of Aperitivo

There is no greater joy in life than sitting down with friends and family after a long day to enjoy good food and good drinks. On that I am sure we can agree.

Such a joy is not just a novelty over in Northern Italy, but a way of life, and that is what has been the foundation of inspiration for London’s most exciting new food and drink collaboration. It is all about sitting down to enjoy an aperitif menu as the sun sets.

As of today, iconic drinks brand, Martini, are embarking on a month long celebration of Italian food. They’ve teamed up with their friends at Clerkenwell’s Luca restaurant to create an exclusive dinner menu, and last night, House of Coco were lucky enough to sample it.

This collaboration is a match made in heaven. We knew it would work well before we even stepped into the stunningly contemporary restaurant, but the launch event affirmed our opinion. Luca is the perfect place from which to combine all that is good about Britain and Italy: the white walled court yard elaborately decorated with twinkling lights and roses has you feeling like you’re in a quiet corner of the Mediterranean, whilst the exposed Georgian brickwork and low-hanging light fittings remind you it could only be a swanky London eatery that you’re sat in.

The restaurant’s head chef, Robert Chambers, has worked tirelessly and closely with Michelin starred chef, Matteo Baronetto to develop four equisite dishes that will both reset your preconceptions of aperitivo and convince you that it needs to become a part of your life. Each dish is accompanied by a cocktail carefully curated by Martini’s global brand ambassador and one of the most renowned mixologists in Italian cocktail culture, Roberta Mariani, alongside Luca’s passionate Head of Drinks: Robert Simpson. The result? A unique menu combining the traditional flavours of Northern Italy with those contemporary of our own city, London.

COURSE 1

Veal marinated in chestnut honey, served with English pickled radishes. This is paired with Piedmonte Fizz (Martini Riserva Speciale Ambrato, Bombay Sapphire, lemon juice, absinthe and soda). Why? The chestnut flavours in the dish leave a soft taste, so the drink brings a light bitterness that evokes the herbal note in a refreshing way.

COURSE 2

Tomato tart with salted green peach and gentleman’s relish. This is served with San Pietro (Martini Riserva Speciale Ambrato and tomato skin infused Bombay Sapphire). Why? The tomato skin infusion means notes of the drink match perfectly with the fresh tomatoes in the tart.
Those seeking a bitter option can choose the Pedalare, which is the Martini Riserva Speciale Bitter topped with grape cider and served over ice.

COURSE 3

Lettuce leaf with citrus mayonnaise and dried green olives. Course three is paired with Amalfi Spritz. Perhaps our favourite of the cocktails here at House of Coco, it is made with classic Italian Limoncello and herb soda, complimented with the Martini Riserva Speciale vermouth. Why? Both the dish and the drink here are delectably light and refreshing. Palette cleansers, if you like.

COURSE 4

Scotch Olive: green olives encased in succulent rabbit sausage meat, seasoned with summer savoury and Calabrian chilli and coated in breadcrumbs. Served with the classic Martini Negroni cocktail: a bittersweet blend of Martini Riserva Rubino, Martini Riserva Speciale Bitter and Bombay Sapphire. Why? The richness of the drink perfectly compliments the earthy flavours of rabbit meat.

If you fancy trying this menu (and we totally recommend that you do) then it is available between 6 and 9pm from now until 4th October at Luca, London. It is priced at £35.

This price includes four courses, a Martini Negroni Cocktail and two other cocktails of your choice. Bookings can be made for 1-4 guests. Click here to book.

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