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If sniffing out new hotels up and down the country was an Olympic sport, we’d be taking home the gold.

Page8 is one of London’s newest and best additions and one of our favourites so far. We love learning about new brands, how they came about and what they’re striving for. The Page brand is all about bringing urban explorers to travel and bringing people together. Which we literally could not be any more all over.

Let’s talk location. If you were to measure, with all the power of science and geography, you’d probably place the official centre of London less than 100m away from the hotel’s front door. It’s just next door to the St Martin in the Fields church (which we ashamedly had to look up the name of – having only ever passed through en route to Heaven on a Saturday night) on Trafalgar Square. If ever there were a place designed to bring people together, it’s here.

With 138 rooms, it’s on the bigger side of boutique, but has one of the most personal touches we’ve ever experienced.

As a modern brand, the design and finishing touches are flawlessly thought through, and it gives the feel of an expensive members club but without the fuss (and the fee). In the rooms, expect a lot of hard dark blue leather and bronze accents – with crisp white sheets and the kind of Scandi scatter cushions and indie coffee table books you always thought you’d like for your own house but can only ever find in cool hotels.

We’re always a bit wary of using the word “cool” because it’s, with all intents and purpose, a subjective term. Well, it was anyway, because there’s no denying that Page8 isn’t cool. Marshall speakers pump out the sounds of sick indie bands that will never be mainstream, and even the air is cool, thanks to each room’s own personal Blueair air purifier. Even the bathrooms are cool, and with Co Bigelow products – this is the kind of stuff Kate Moss and Tom Hardy probably wash their hands with.

The brand opened their first venture in Hong Kong about a year ago, and the London version is a very welcome contender in a city so dependent on casual co-working office spaces and new generation food halls.

The hotel lobby isn’t a place where you wait for a rude receptionist to tap endless numbers on the world’s most robust booking system (you know who you are) – it’s an open space designed to welcome guests in. Their coffeeshop concept, Page Common, shares a space, and is the home of not-so-pretentious artisanal coffees. Hints at travel in the form of chunky books and educated baristas encourage conversations between people, and as travel focussed nomad workers ourselves, it’s a pretty special place to be.

Page8 (www.pagehotels.com / 0203 879 9400) offers a starting nightly rate of £220 for a double room on a room only basis.

Last week, Team Coco babe Hannah Tan-Gillies headed down to buzzing Shoreditch for a genius cocktail evening of epic proportions at TT Liquor’s Cellar Bar.

TT Liquor’s Cellar Bar – A Cocktail Wonderland

Now there’s no better way to get over the winter blues than by indulging in a few cocktails (or five), and we’ve just discovered the best place to explore some genius new cocktail combinations.

Located on Kingsland Road, TT Liquor may look like a specialist liquor store on the outside but offers plenty of surprises. Once inside, you are immediately greeted by floor-to-ceiling shelves of spirits and curiosities. Beyond that, you are led to another sitting room where you can catch a glimpse of the private cinema, and eventually down the subterranean labyrinth of TT Liquor’s atmospheric Cellar Bar.

TT Liquor’s Cellar Bar – Where History Meets Mixology Brilliance

Back in the Victorian era, TT Liquor used to be an old police station; and you can definitely feel the history of the building when cosily tucked into the dimly lit alcoves of the cellar bar. These alcoves used to be the holding cells for prisoners, but now feature handsome leather banquette seats and plenty of charm.

Here, we experienced TT Liquor’s new genius-themed cocktail menu. The entire menu is an homage to some of the greatest inventors of our time from Marvin Gaye to Madame Cliquot.

Elevate Your Cocktail Experience

The genius menu has been hailed as the Cellar Bar’s most ambitious one to date, with each cocktail individually crafted by a member of TT Liquor’s team. Some highlights include a Liberace-inspired concoction that offers a refreshing twist to a traditional whiskey sour. It is made with Bling, Balvenie 12, Montenegro, Disaronno, Cranberry, and Citrus.

The ‘Death Ray’ — which was inspired by Serbian American inventor Nikola Tesla — is another instant favourite and is TT Liquor’s version of a hot buttered rum. It is made with a special mix of Rebel Hell Rye and hot spiced butter & brown sugar.

Unforgettable Evenings at TT Liquor’s Cellar Bar

During our visit, we were also treated to one of TT Liquor’s ‘Thirsty Thursdays’ tasting sessions, which brings together groups of people looking to learn more about a specific spirit. That Thursday, we learned all about the history and different kinds of rum. We were also treated to a few funny stories from our friendly bartender Sacha and even had a few sips of ‘Diplomatico’ as well. Diplomatico is a Venezuelan dark rum that will surely leave a lasting taste sensation for rum lovers and rum novices alike.

But no matter what your poison may be, one thing was clear. The Cellar Bar at TT Liquor is the best place to enjoy an evening of fantastic cocktails with equally fantastic company.

TTLIQUOR.CO.UK

London boasts a plethora of dynamic rooftop restaurants in the city centre. One that has stood the test of time is Galvin at Windows. Being situated on the 28th floor of the historic London Hilton on Park Lane, you won’t be surprised to find unimpeded views of London’s fascinating skyline.

Chef Patron is Chris Galvin. Along with his brother Jeff, they’ve dominated the London restaurant scene for years with their Michelin-starred cooking skills at restaurants like Galvin La Chapelle. They famously opened the Wolseley restaurant in 2003 and Chris had already earned his first Michelin star at the Orrery back in the year 2000.

At Galvin at Windows, he has appointed talented Marc Hardiman as head chef. Marc had perfected his skills at the Ritz as Senior Sous Chef. Interestingly, Chris had worked as a commis chef at the Ritz back in the day.

With such power-packed CVs, you wouldn’t be surprised to find the food at Galvin at Windows is remarkably polished. Service is attentive yet discreet from the moment you step into the restaurant.

A great way to experience their menu is to try their Sunday lunch menu. For the quality of food and service and the views on offer, it is very reasonably priced at £59 per person for 3 courses. It is available from 12 pm to 3 pm every Sunday lunch.

Furthermore, they are dishes you readily pay a premium for, as the ingenious combination of ingredients is unlikely to be recreated at home. Think locally sourced Halibut paired with St Austell Museels, yuzu kosho, nori, Champagne and rose. It is rightfully decadent as you would expect dining at a rooftop restaurant in the heart of Park Lane.

Dishes I would recommend trying include a beautifully sweet heritage tomato salad. It has a beautiful zestiness due to the addition of ponzu dressing and has some weighty substance with the presence of moreish goats curd.

Their beef carpaccio was a delightful surprise. It had a real depth of flavour due to the fact it has been dry aged and they used the finest quality black Angus. It was very cleverly paired with artichokes, mustard seeds and a smoked egg yolk for added complexity.

Enhanced flavours were also the order of the day with the main courses. Cornish Brill had an extra umami kick with the inclusion of Porthilly oysters and coastal herbs. The extra ingredients are always given careful consideration on how they can enhance and support the main act.

They had a very healthy take on the classic lasagne. The ‘lasagne’ sheets were made with celeriac whilst the filling was stuffed with meaty confit king oyster mushrooms. There was a hint of truffle used, but it was never overpowering. This is very much unlike less celebrated restaurants, which often use truffles to compensate for a lack of flavour in their dishes.

The highlight of their not-to-be-missed dessert section is the blackcurrant soufflé. Blackcurrants are incredibly underrepresented in fine dining menus. They have high levels of Vitamin C and antioxidants. The soufflé rose to just the right height and it had the perfect smooth consistency inside. It was paired with a delectable cheesecake ice cream and topped with crème de cassis to add to the blackcurrant notes.

Pairing the right ingredients to enhance the flavours is also evident in most of the other desserts on the menu. Case in point is the exquisitely executed white chocolate and blackberry crème brûlée. They’ve included a blackberry sorbet, so the tart and sweet notes come through even stronger. The texture was silky smooth along with the requisite crunchy topping. The dessert was finished off with a muscovado sugar shortbread.

When booking your table, check which side of the restaurant you might be sitting on. For example, when we visited for Sunday lunch recently, it was particularly glaring on the Hyde Park side. I would recommend booking for the Oxford Street side of the restaurant for Sunday lunch. You will still enjoy spectacular views of the London topography.

If you want a great recommendation for an apéritif or digestif, do check out their neighbouring bar, 10 Degrees Sky Bar. They offer some highly innovative cocktails and you can still admire the stunning views from the 28th floor.

For more information on the restaurant, please visit –

https://www.galvinatwindows.com/

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Find out more and book your table here.

From the best rooftops to the prettiest terraces we’ve rounded up some of the best summer dining spots in London.

POCKETSQUARE

Cocktail Connoisseurs assemble, there’s a sexy spot in the city that’s about to become your new favourite spot for sipping top notch tipples. Head to Aldgate East and go all the way up to PocketSquare Skyline Bar and terrace which is located on the 9th floor of the Hyatt Place London City East and perch against the railings, cocktail in hand and take in sweeping views of London.

This charming oasis has an impressive selection of inventive, abstract handcrafted cocktails that use the finest spirits and the most interesting ingredients. We loved the Robberbaron, a heady mix of Hepple gin, benedictine, spiced wine reduction and everleaf forest, inspired by Robin Hood’s escapades and the lush estate of Sherwood Forest. For something a little more playful, Hunny is a sweet concoction that combines Toki, Beesou, Bee Pollen chutney and honey (ofcourse) and is presented in the cutest vanity box like contraption. We also loved the Kushty, which also happens to be the best seller, it cleverly combines Hendricks, mint lassie, pineapple and fair passion fruit and makes for a tropical inspired delight. The Halcyon everleaf marine, lemon & bergamot and chamomile syrup is another great choice and pairs well with most of the dishes.

Should you be feeling peckish , the food here is also excellent with a menu that offers lip smacking selections including deliciously creamy saffron and taleggio arancini, and slow cooked beef meatballs with parmesan oregano and tomato sauce. Those with an appetite will love the flatbreads, with the fennel sausage with nduja and burrata guaranteed to be a winning choice. Their fritto misto is also excellent and the watermelon and saffron and pecorino salad is another standout option, cleverly combining compressed cucumber, red chicory, black olives and is glazed with a delicious balsamic beetroot dressing.

PocketSquare is the perfect Friday night spot for gazing out onto the metropolitan sprawl and soundtracking your cocktail sipping with clinking glasses, friendly chatter and the house DJ spinning into the night.

FERN

Fern, which is located in East Croydon and serving modern European cuisine is undoubtedly one of the most exciting restaurant openings in South London recent times. Located opposite East Croydon train station on the ground floor of Ten Degrees, the world’s tallest modular skyscraper, it’s a great addition to the Croydon dining scene and easily accessible for both local diners and visitors from far and wide.

Fern is an all day bar and restaurant serving an impressive array of cocktails and sharing dishes. The vibe is relaxed and informal. The decor which is heavy on the exposed brickwork, wooden fixtures and tall windows is evocative of a cool downtown New York eatery.

Dishes are delivered from the kitchen, tapas style as and when they’re ready, and the food does not disappoint. The menu is cleverly divided into distinct segments: plant, sea and land for easy navigation. From the appetisers ,the glistening and perfectly roasted padron peppers set you up beautifully for your culinary journey. However it’s the baked sweet potato with crispy onion feta and truffle aioli that will steal your heart with its stunning combination of flavours.

The roasted tenderstem broccoli with cumin, mixed seeds and tahini is an elevated take on a staple that works beautifully and is sure to tickle tastebuds. From the ‘sea’ part of the menu, baked scallops with chorizo emulsion, garlic and herb crum and lemon is a vibrant dish that bravely takes on scallops and does so exceedingly well. The chargrilled tiger prawns with romesco and lime are bursting with flavour and will delight seafood lovers . The braised short rib with carrot puree, chipotle and crispy onions is by far one of the standout dishes, its creamy melt- in- your mouth fare that delivers on flavour in spades.

Wash down these dishes with their enchanting cocktails. You’ll be spoilt for choice but we promise you that you’ll love the Jasmine, a vibrant concoction that blends Tanqueray, jasmine, lychee lime and soda. For a super refreshing option, we also recommend the passion fruit spritz from their spritz selection, which combines passion fruit liqueur lime and bubbles. Oh, and it’s a very pretty looking libation too.

Round off your evening with something from the pudding menu, the Basque vanilla cheesecake is a good choice, beautifully blending blueberry, maple and caramelised white chocolate. The Lemon panna cotta which is a wobbly delight of turmeric, lemon curd berry gel and basil is also a great option for rounding off an impressive dining experience.

AVIARY

As far as rooftop locations go, Aviary London with its breathtaking 10th floor location atop the Montcalm Hotel is hard to beat. A light and airy dining room complete with floor to ceiling walls overlooks a stunning terrace. If you didn’t know, Aviary recently launched its bottomless brunch in partnership with Whispering Angel which means free flowing rose, alongside prosecco, beer and cocktails is the star of the show. The vibe is city slicker meets casual glam and the dining experience is pretty casual with a buffet style set up when it comes to the food.

A busy grazing station proffers up every type of brunch dish that you can imagine. Giant king prawns catch your eye immediately alongside an extensive charcuterie selection and cheeseboard. Hummus and babaganoush make an appearance together with toasted flatbread. You’re spoilt for choice with the delicious salad selection that includes a delectable chicory, orange, fennel and green olive creation. This is alongside bagels with toppings including truffled chicken mayonnaise.

For the sweet toothed, the baked goods station overflowing with every pastry imaginable, together with freshly made waffles and pancakes that come with a selection of nut butters, nutella and honey and maple syrup will be hard to resist. For the calorie watches, there is the option of healthy granola with yoghurt and fruit.

If you’re lucky enough to find space, head out onto the terrace for sweeping views of London’s iconic skyline and groove to the DJ as he spins the decks for a spectacular weekend soiree.

Peckham Arches

Just two minutes from Rye Lane nestled beneath the arches of Peckham Rye station, Peckham Arches is the ultimate South London spot for outdoor dining with 600 capacity space to accommodate bustling crowds. Expect chilled vibes, rustic setting, delicious wood fired pizzas and pumping music to take you from day to night. The choice of pizzas and drink is huge, but it’s the large open fire kitchen where everything is cooked on a charcoal grill that has made this all weather terrace a draw for foodies.

You’ll be hard pressed to choose from an inventive menu that offers a variety of thrilling delights. From the bites, there is the nocellara olives and scene stealing courgette fries. From the pizza we were impressed by the classic douple pepperoni, chorizo and peppers and nduja and chilli tomato base options. We also loved the Funghi, Roaster Aubergine & Kale,and Parma & Asparagus on their signature parmesan and garlic cream base.

The drinks menu is extensive with options to satisfy everyone, There is a diverse range of boh draught and bottle beers and several options for wine drinkers. There’s a choice of traditional cocktails alongside the latin inspired concoctions such as the Passion Fruit Mezcalita, picante and the Skylarking Margarita. It doesn’t end there, across the road is Peckham Arches’ sister bar Skylarking where pizza lovers can indulge quite probably the best homemade wood fired sourdough pizza south of the river.

Coco Canary Wharf

A new restaurant has opened its doors in Canary Wharf. This new joint is brought to you by the same team behind Coco Grill and Lounge and Coco Asia, offering a unique alcohol free experience alongside their Anatolian cuisine menu. It is located on a prime spot on West India quay along the bustling river facing terrace with incredible views of Canary Wharf. Coco Canary Wharf is an instagrammer’s dream thanks to the plush seating, glimmering fixtures, bright neon lights, dark furnishings, and dishes presented amongst an impressive plume of smoke. With both indoors and all weather outdoor seating, you have the option of dining indoors before moving out to the shisha terrace fro post dining

Coco Canaray wharf whips up a huge selection of mouth watering dishes. From the starters, which include the outstanding king prawn puri cooked in Asian spices and served in fried bread to the fiery cauliflower in Korean spicy sauce, there’s plenty to satiate your appetite.

From the grill, the wagyu rib eye steak (which can be accessorised with 24k gold if you’re feeling flush) is a statement dish to try. For a more modest option, the lamb shish with tzatziki and chilli sauce will certainly not disappoint. It’s the coco korai curry which can be ordered as vegetarian, lamb or chicken curry that is the real standout dish at Coco Canary wharf, perfect with either paratha or chapati to mop up all the juices. If that’s not enough for you, there’s a robust dessert menu with delectable choices including lotus cheesecake or the pistachio flavoured baklava that comes with coconut ice cream.

Despite being an alcoholic free venue, Coco Canary Wharf proffers an impressive drinks menu that has wine alternatives, milkshakes and mocktails including a sweet and sour strawberry dakari that’s worth ordering for the theatrical bubble alone.

Zuaya

Latin food has grown in popularity over the last few years and firmly established itself as a favourite in London’s dining scene. From ceviche, to tacos to Mexican street food, you’re never faraway from a taste of Latin America. Skating up the scene is Zuaya where you don’t have to choose between the different latin specialties, thanks to a menu that cleverly fuses the very Brazilian, Mexican and Peruvian dishes.

Situated just off Kensington High St, diners have the option of dining indoors or the stunning outside terrace. Unsurprisingly, tapas is the name of the game at Zuaya. The flavours are bold and flavourful, with impressive starters including tuna avocado tacos and garlic prawns with lime and chilli to tickle the taste buds. The meat tapas are also very good, the wild rice, shitake mushroom and confit duck is magnificent. From the salad and vegetables menu, the tomato, avocado and pomegranate salad together with the equally impressive patatas bravas are also not to be missed. They also make a mean cocktail at Zuaya with several latin inspired specialties including classics such as Cuba Libre, Caiprinha and a classic Puerto Rico Pina Colada that packs a delicious punch.

The Stafford

Nothing says British Summer Time quite like the perpetual search for the perfect outdoor dining spot to soak up those summer rays, cocktail in hand, praying that it doesn’t rain. One such spot can be found nestled in St James’s place, a stone’s throw away from Green Park, in the majestic Stafford Hotel London’s American Bar.

A few short steps through the stylish lobby and you find yourself in the Hotel’s cobbled courtyard, home to the American bar which is truly one of the Londons’ loveliest secluded alfresco spot. It’s genuinely a hidden gem where you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Food and drink at this secretive spot is an utter delight. The enviable cocktail menu is purveyed by the legendary Bar Director Benoit Provost. Start your evening with a cocktail from the specially curated summer menu that has some very cleverly named concoctions including Adios Amor, which is a mix of Casa Noble Blanco Tequila, White Mint, Citrus, Champagne Chocolate, Mango, Jalapeño, Apricot Citrus Sherbet, Agave Syrup or for a truly summery cocktail got for the Tropical storm which is made up of Bayou Reserve Rum, Pistachio, Briottet Creme Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto, Citrus, Champagne d’Abricot Liqueur, Citrus, and Orange Blossom Honey.

Dining in the American bar is a relaxed affair, with an extensive menu of plates that are perfect for sharing. The menu is a mix of British and elevated take on American classics. There’s plenty of meat and seafood so carnivores will be delighted. Start with the jambalaya glazed prawns coated in a delicious lime yogurt or the cute mini sausages in American hot sauce from the smaller plates. Then from the large plates go for the grass fed rib eye steak, a plump and juicy cut of meat that comes replete with giant onion rings, bearnaise sauce and gravy. Homemade warm doughnuts drizzled with hazelnut chocolate sauce.

On weekdays, don’t miss the excellent new BBQ menu menu, purveyed by Lisa Goodwin-Allen featuring dramatic Kamado grills for some thrilling open- fire cooking. . The menu has mouth watering creations including Lamb pastrami with potato flatbread,cucumber and mint yoghurt or the succulent salmon with fennel salad and citrus creme fraiche. More exotic dishes include Tandoori monkfish kebab with slaw and flatbread and Curried cauliflower steak with toasted almonds and pomegranate seeds. Spiced rum-glazed BBQ pineapple provides the perfect sweet treat to complete the summer dining experience.

The best bit? An exciting new cocktail list is also available alongside the BBQ menus. The specially curated barbeque menu is available weekdays from 12pm to a leisurely 3pm.

Synonymous with central London, and especially famous for its nightlife and LGBT+ community, Soho is much more than its lively streets and vibrant bars. In fact, you won’t need to venture far during your time in London to have a good time.

Check out our guide of how to best spend your time here . . .

Where to stay . . .

Karma Sanctum Soho

Just a hop, skip and a jump from Carnaby (or a stumble depending on what time it is) you’ll find Karma Sanctum Soho – London’s original rock n’ roll hotel. In 2009, music insiders joined forces to create a sophisticated boutique hotel for music industry friends and guests. 30 guest rooms and suites range from compact bedrooms to roof terrace suites all of which sit across two converted Georgian townhouses in the heart of Soho.

If you’re looking for a playful and energetic place to stay to inject even more fun into your London getaway, then this is the place for you. There’s surprising sculptures, eclectic artwork and rock n’ roll details around every corner. Live like a true rockstar and make the most of the 24-hour rooftop bar and alfresco Hydro Spa hot tub, screen a film in the subterranean cocktail bar or tuck into something tasty in the hotel’s Japanese restaurant and bar – Wild Heart Bar & Shokudo.

What surprised us most about the hotel is just how quiet the place is – being only two floors above street level we thought we’d be disturbed by the weekend nightlife below, but we didn’t hear a peep and had one of the best night’s sleep in a long time!

It’s the stay in the city that’s just a bit different.

sanctumsoho.com

Where to shop . . .

Spread across several streets in Soho including Berwick St, Broadwick St, Denman Street and Brewer Street, Shaftesbury’s Soho portfolio showcases 39 shops with plenty of independent boutiques, here are our top picks –

Sister Ray started as a humble record stall on Camden Market in the mid 80s and has steadily grown into one of London’s most iconic suppliers of quality, alternative vinyl and CDs. Set over two floors, you can expect the likes of the finest new releases alongside a huge range of classic albums and a superb selection of rare and second-hand vinyl.

A Day’s March is a Swedish clothing label with a three-story townhouse in the heart of Soho. The brand reflects their ambition to make clothes that get you through the triumphs and troubles of everyday life. Explore their classic menswear and womenswear collections of high-quality garments, featuring timeless designs for every occasion. You can also relax in their chill-out area post-shop. It’s just as cool as it sounds.

Aēsop specialise in fine quality products for skin, hair and body. Featuring both plant-based and laboratory-made ingredients, Aēsop’s products only use those with a proven record of safety and efficacy. The Soho store combines a vast range of products with a modern and minimal design. Head in-store for a personal assessment from on-hand trained consultants, who can provide you with all your skincare answers whilst trying one of their season-appropriate samples.

Where to eat . . .

Discover 31 restaurants, bars and cafes across several Soho streets including Berwick St, Broadwick St, Denman Street and Brewer Street. Here’s our favourite spots in Soho for some stylish sustenance . . .

Ember Yard

Specialising in dishes inspired by the amazing wood-fired grills of Spain and Italy, Head Chef Adam Kulikowski creates exceptional small and large sharing plates. No fuss. No fanfare. Just flavour. The restaurant is located in the heart of Soho over two floors, including an exciting downstairs space known as The Ember Bar, a slick area in which to indulge on small plates over their impressive cocktail list. Find yourself amongst an electric and buzzy atmosphere making it a perfect space to relax with a drink pre or post dinner.

The aim of the game here is to order a selection of small plates to share which will arrive as and when they’re ready. Their signature dish is the courgette flower which is just as delightful as it sounds, but other notable dishes include their soft shell crab burger, charcoal roasted scallops and prawn croquetas. Definitely try out a few different options from their cocktail menu if you can – they’re not only fun and inventive, but delicious, too.

emberyard.co.uk

Temper

One for meat lovers, this city spot near the shops of Carnaby Street is well worth a visit for those who appreciate great dining experiences. Temper is an ultra-modern and hip hangout that serves some satisfying and social dishes. Begin with creative snacks like the Caramelised Spicy Corn or starters like the Aged Beef Nachos or Beef Fat Cornbread with Gochujang Butter. The main event here is the selection of Barbecued smoked meats and seafood. Beef Brisket with Tajin in Paratha, Sweet & Sour Pork Rib and Chilli & Garlic Prawns all for your order.

Dine on a Sunday and indulge in their famous Sunday roast with a range of meats on offer. Expect enlarged Yorkshire puddings and comforting cauliflower cheese. The open kitchen makes for a theatrical dining experience while the space still feels intimate and cosy.

temperrestaurant.com

Read more about Soho over at thisissoho.co.uk

Planning a trip to London and feel like you need to cram in as much as possible? There’s no need to exhaust yourself running around getting sweaty on the tube in the summer months when there’s everything you need and more in Carnaby Street London . . .

With a compelling heritage that boasts the birthplace of Swinging London in the ‘60s, Carnaby is, today, the go-to destination for global fashion brands, unique independent stores, and world-first concepts. Located in London’s vibrant West End, just a short walk from Oxford Circus and Piccadilly Circus tube stations, the area invites you to discover over 160 brands spanning fashion, lifestyle, beauty, food, and drink across 14 streets, including the world-famous Carnaby Street.

Check out our guide on how to best utilise your time here . . .

Where to stay . . .

Karma Sanctum Soho

Carnaby Street, London

Just a hop, skip and a jump from Carnaby (or a stumble depending on what time it is) you’ll find Karma Sanctum Soho – London’s original rock n’ roll hotel. In 2009, music insiders joined forces to create a sophisticated boutique hotel for music industry friends and guests. 30 guest rooms and suites range from compact bedrooms to roof terrace suites all of which sit across two converted Georgian townhouses in the heart of Soho.

If you’re looking for a playful and energetic place to stay to inject even more fun into your London getaway, then this is the place for you. There are surprising sculptures, eclectic artwork and rock n’ roll details around every corner. Live like a true rockstar and make the most of the 24-hour rooftop bar and alfresco Hydro Spa hot tub, screen a film in the subterranean cocktail bar or tuck into something tasty in the hotel’s Japanese restaurant and bar – Wild Heart Bar & Shokudo.

What surprised us most about the hotel is just how quiet the place is – being only two floors above street level we thought we’d be disturbed by the weekend nightlife below, but we didn’t hear a peep and had one of the best night’s sleep in a long time!

It’s the stay in the city that’s just a bit different.

sanctumsoho.com

What to see . . .

Carnaby is known for its world-famous art installations, especially at Christmas, but this summer there are some exciting things to feast your eyes on.

Carnaby in Colour summer installation

Spanning across Carnaby Street and Newburgh Street is a brand-new, vibrant feature made exclusively from recycled plastic. Brought to you by the recycling brand ‘Are You Mad’ these three hand/heart-shaped arches will be suspended above the streets until mid-September. Sitting alongside the existing Welcome To Carnaby Street arches that have also been upcycled with colourful recycled hand embellishments, these installations form part of the wider Carnaby in Colour campaign. Crafted using 684kg of recycled plastic waste from local shops and restaurants the installation took four weeks of collecting waste plastic, 16 days of sheet pressing and a team of 13 people to create the finished materials. We think the installation showcases the community, colour and care that Carnaby is all about.

Festoon lights, Kingly Street

Kingly Street is home to some of the best restaurants in Carnaby from Dishoom, Pizza Pilgrims, Kolamba and Dehes. This back street is the perfect place to dine al fresco and enjoy a photo on the outdoor seating under the pink festoon lights.

Ganton Street giant light bulb installation, Ganton Street

The West side of Ganton Street has been taken over by 51 ginormous light bulbs suspended from the sky. Impressive at any time of day, the installation is best viewed at night when the LED bulbs light up in a rainbow of colours creating the most spectacular light show.

Where to shop . . .

Forget trying to dodge all the people on busy Oxford Street and enjoy a calmer and more authentic shopping experience in Carnaby with over 100 stores to satisfy all your shopping needs. There’s everything from international and British heritage labels to independent boutiques, one-off concepts, and bespoke jewellery specialists to name but a few. Here are our standouts –

Mind is Carnaby’s first permanent charity shop and houses a carefully curated collection of preloved vintage and designer stock for the stylish West London shopper. Items in store include the likes of luxury designers Givenchy, Vivienne Westwood, Burberry, Coach and Louis Vuitton, plus new stock will be added to the shelves each day meaning no two shopping experiences will be the same. It’s worth noting that Kate Spade and Lulu Guiness donate unsold stock to them regularly, meaning you can pick up some real bargains, all for a good cause!

Annie’s Ibiza sells a mix of eclectic and rare, one-of-a-kind pieces. Every piece is handpicked by Annie herself and is a reflection of her wardrobe, with a majority of the pieces being exclusively available to Annie’s Ibiza. Even if you don’t buy anything, this store is an experience in itself and an Aladdin’s Cave of gorgeous garments. While there, we found a stunning dress made by Annie that was inspired by designs from the Ottoman Empire, as well as a dress made exclusively from recycled pieces collected from the shop over a year.

Ffern is a natural fragrance maker based in Somerset. It was born out of a simple vision: to restore perfumery to its artisan roots. With this in mind, Ffern creates fragrances that are organic, vegan and made from the highest quality, sustainably sourced, natural ingredients. Working with the rhythms of the seasons, they blend, barrel-age and bottle four unique fragrances a year, released at the equinox and solstice. It’s a beautiful store that makes you feel calm and grounded as soon as you walk through the door.

Kat Maconie shoes are instantly recognisable by their dazzling colour palette, statement hardware frames on architectural heels, and maximalist details. From beaded and bedazzled, to embroidered and appliqued; more is more. Uniquely comfortable and easy to wear, Kat Maconie shoes are designed with comfort and fit at the forefront. It’s a fun fashion for your feet and is bound to add a little spring to your step.

Hayley Menzies has opened the doors to a beautiful new boutique in the heart of Carnaby. The store hosts a highly curated edit of Hayley Menzies essentials for those embarking on a day out in the city’s revered shopping district. Pop downstairs to see what deals she has on and chat with the fab assistants to see what styles they recommend.

Where to eat . . .

With 60 restaurants, bars, and cafes to choose from you sure won’t go hungry in Carnaby. We’ve done the hard work and compiled some of the places that are a MUST VISIT, trust us, you wont regret it . . .

Darjeeling Express

This is Indian food cooked from the heart with the all-female kitchen, most of whom began as part-time assistants when Asma started her business years ago, have all been taught to cook by their mothers and grandmothers. Darjeeling Express started as a dinner for 12 guests at home, serving Indian food lovingly cooked from family recipes that go back to generations by founder Asma Khan. Based on the top floor of Kingly Court, her London restaurant is inspired by the interiors of Indian train station waiting rooms filled with terracotta pots and wooden ceiling fans. Discover mouth-watering textures and flavours in her compelling dishes including nourishing Dhall, tender Methi Chicken, and Prawn Malaikari paired with tantalising sides such as Beetroot Chop, Bulandshahr Rogni Roti and Spinach Pakora. The biriyani will have you coming back for more, which probably explains the regular queue outside the door. However, we recommend the set menu dinner served on a large silver tray filled with delectable dishes allowing you to have a taste of everything. And the cocktails are just as good as the food!

darjeeling-express.com

Dishoom

This famous Bombay-inspired eatery can be found throughout the UK, but the Carnaby site is the fourth in the London collection. Inspired by the old Irani cafes that were all the rage in Bombay in the ‘60s, Dishoom pays homage to these now rare places. Rich businessmen, courting couples and sweaty taxi-wallas all frequented the cafés. They were the first places in the city where people from any caste or class could have an inexpensive snack or a hearty meal, or just seek cool refuge from the street with a glass of chai. But now as the city rushes towards modernity, these beautiful old cafés are disappearing, mourned by Bombayites, and fading into memory.

Open all day, pop along for breakfast, lunch or dinner, but be prepared to queue unless you’ve managed to get a booking. Breakfast is our favourite, not only can you usually get a table, it will be a breakfast unlike any you’ve had before. Tuck into their famed bacon naan, try chilli cheese on toast or opt for the never-ending refillable date porridge. What we love the most, however, is that for every breakfast you eat at Dishoom, the restaurant will donate a ‘magic’ breakfast to a school in London. Magic Breakfast charity aims to end hunger as a barrier to education by providing nutritious breakfasts to its partner schools. Now, how lovely is that?

dishoom.com

Zahter

Located on the corner of Foubert’s Place, Zahter showcases true Istabanbulite cuisine with its vibrant places. The interiors comprise a pleasant blue and white palette with the wood and charcoal oven at the centre of it all. Long countertop tables are perfect to perch at and people-watch on a busy afternoon. The menu encompasses finely crafted dishes and exotic tastes all of which are cooked in the open wood-fired oven and are continually changed to showcase what’s in season.

All the dishes were small and designed to be shared, but the menu felt a little overwhelming having little knowledge of Istanbul cuisine, so we asked our delightful waiter to choose for us and boy did he do good! A watermelon salad paired with goat’s cheese, chilli and honey was not something we would have usually opted for, but it was heavenly and the baked aubergine is something like we’ve never had before. Using fresh ingredients is vital for the taste, hence sourcing ingredients from sources and small artisanal producers.

zahter.co.uk

What to do . . .

Pamper at So.Shell

Pop by Ukrainian nail bar, So.Shell, a place where customers don’t have to compromise between time and quality. Here you can get a manicure, pedicure and eyebrow treatment all done in just 90 minutes! However, their large treatment menu extends beyond this with nail extensions, nail art, lash treatments and brow lamination all available and performed by highly qualified professionals. So. Shell interior resembles a holiday destination, helping you to relax and recharge. Dip your feet into a relaxing bath followed by a massage, order a refreshing drink and escape from your daily routine.

I opted for a heavenly pedicure! My technician Irene gave my poor feet some much-needed love and attention, and I left with not only a beautiful bright red pedicure but also a spring in my step.

soshell.uk

Cocktails at Cahoots

Descend into Cahoots for an immersive 1940s experience where you’ll find yourself sipping on themed cocktails from a Toby Jug, jiving away to jazz and swinging the night away in a reworked 1940s tube carriage.

Inspired by the era that saw Londoners take refuge in the underground, as stations were commonly used as air raid shelters during the war, Cahoots replicates the wartime British spirit with drinks and sing-alongs around the piano to boost morale. With an extensive cocktail menu printed on an old newspaper, all drinks are themed and regularly change, making it all too easy to spend most of the evening down here. Be adventurous and ask your waitress (who’ll likely be in character) what they recommend. Wartime rations are served in the form of small plates to share with friends.

cahoots-london.com

Read more about colourful Carnaby over at carnaby.co.uk

Come with us to one of London’s most exclusive boroughs for an elegant evening in charming Chelsea.

As much as I adore the King’s Road in Chelsea, it can get a little bit chaotic, especially in the summer holidays or on a weekend. But if you’re in the know, there’s a hidden gem just off the bustling high street where you can retreat to rest and recharge ready for another round of shopping.

And at House of Coco, we know ALL the best places. This one in particular is located at The Sloane Club – an elegant private members club located just a short stroll away from the hustle and bustle of Chelsea’s Sloane Square.

When the sun is out in London, there is no greater occasion for drinking rosé on a buzzing terrace with friends, which is why The Roof Terrace at The Sloane Club has partnered with the iconic rosé brand, Whispering Angel, throughout July and August for a pop up of summer soirées and al fresco dining.

Whispering Angel have taken over The Roof Terrace at The Sloane Club to delight guests with crisp rosés accompanied by a mouth-watering menu by The Club’s Chefs. Diners can indulge in the menu that has a variety of light and fresh dishes celebrating British summer flavours with a delicious exotic twist from Messy aromatic lemongrass chicken burger with garlic aioli, pineapple salsa, spicy Asian slaw to Seafood and basil risotto with native lobster, Devon crab, tiger prawns & squid. Be sure to end your evening with the chocolate bombe – it’ll delight everyone at the table.

Enjoy The Pale Rosé, a juicy and elegant blend from the wider Provençal region in France; Whispering Angel Rosé made from Grenache, Cinsault and Vermentino – a dry wine with a smooth finish; and Rock Angel Rosé bearing a complex and structured taste profile, making it perfect as an aperitif.

The pop up is also the perfect place to inject a bit more sunshine into your summer, as let’s face it, this one has been a little bit drab! A flower arch and floral installation of beautiful pinks, greens, and whites set amongst the elegant surroundings of the roof terrace gives you that bright, sunshiny feeling. And if the British weather does what it does best and rain, they have a retractable roof that will roll on out to keep you nice and dry.

Open seven days a week from 12pm through to 11pm it’s ideal for ladies who lunch, a stylish business meeting, that all important first date, special celebration or even just a fun get-together with friends. And what’s even better is that the club’s sister property, Sloane Place, is located next door, giving you the perfect excuse to stay in stylish South West London.

Located in an iconic red brick building on Lower Sloane Street, the hotel is the younger sister of the 101-year-old Sloane Club next door. With a welcoming reception area, Sloane Place instantly gives the impression of being elegant, stylish, and refined – exactly what we’d expect of a hotel in the heart of Chelsea – yet retains that feel of exclusivity.

Making our way to the room, this feeling carried on throughout the hotel with a warming colour palette of creams, blues and deep golds. The bedrooms are surprisingly spacious for a London hotel with lots of natural lights thanks to the long sash windows. Molton Brown toiletries can be found within your bathroom, along with a deep bath and rainfall shower.

There’s another fabulous restaurant on the ground floor serving up as an alternative option to the roof terrace. We had breakfast here which was fantastic – think matcha lattes (make it dirty by adding a shot), American pancakes and avocado on sourdough toast. If you can bag a table by the window, do, as it makes for the perfect people watching spot.

We’d recommend Sloane Place for a London getaway, and will no doubt book the roof terrace when were in town – come rain or shine!

sloaneplace.com

The grande dame of luxury 5-star hotels in London, The Landmark has recently undergone a major £1.3m refurbishment. Part of that project is to launch a brand-new luxury Champagne Bar. It is on a mezzanine level on their famous garden terrace. The vision of tropical palm trees and the eight-storey-high glass atrium recalls a bygone era of glamour and high society. The Champagne bar designed by Alex Kravetz Design is created to blend in with the luxurious surroundings. The main bar is hidden under a foliage-laden glasshouse. The furnishings have a mixture of vibrant greens, blues, and gold that transports you to the Jazz Age era.

Accentuating that imagery is their High Seas High Tea offering. The hotel offers a traditional afternoon tea at their famous Winter Garden Restaurant but at the Champagne Bar, it is very much seafood-focused. It is available every Saturday and Sunday between 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm. You will also hear the melodic piano sounds emanating from the Victorian Winter Garden atrium. They use the term ‘sandwiches’ but what is served up at the beginning is more tartlets of umami delights from the sea. They offer a tartlet of Scottish lobster, a tartlet of poached langoustine, salmon pastrami, Cornish white crab and yellowfin tuna. Focusing on local produce, the freshness of the seafood is top-notch. The salmon and tuna exuded healthy omega-3 fattiness, whilst the shellfish had a gentle sweetness when you bite into the firm, fresh meat. Each creation has been carefully crafted to maximise the flavours of the seafood. For example, the yellowfin tuna is served with ponzu, black sesame, toasted rye, and fennel butter. The citrus notes from the ponzu are a match made in heaven with the enticing tuna.

The fruity flavours were very much in evidence with their scones and desserts. The scones were either freshly baked apple or raisin scones. All the condiments you would ever need were present from clotted cream to a plethora of jams. The options included Bergeron apricot, London marmalade, strawberry, rhubarb, redcurrant & vanilla and raspberry deluxe. Each scone was generously sized and I have no doubt, they would offer you a refill if you asked.

The desserts were exquisitely presented with a parade of appetising colours. If you are looking for something subtle and delicate, there is the tartlet of nectarine, ginger, mascarpone and raspberry gel. The nectarines were sliced with military precision and presented in an intricate rose shape. If you are looking for textural variety, there is the black cherry and pistachio bakewell. The key is all the creations were sweet without being overbearing. And they do offer boxes for you to take away anything you can’t finish. They only use the finest of ingredients from Valrhona dark chocolate in their choux to English strawberries in their Swiss rolls.

The tea offering also shines brightly in this regal afternoon tea experience. They have green teas, herbal teas, oolong tea and white tea. That includes very high-end options such as Snow Buds white tea. which is high-altitude-grown white tea made entirely of silver-haired tea buds. That creates an elegant, sweet-flavour profile with delicate vegetal notes.

The afternoon tea is available at £75pp or £88pp with a glass of Ruinart Champagne Brut.

If you visit in the evenings, they do still offer seafood-focused small plates, as well as heritage tomato tart and British cheese plates. They also serve a caviar selection that ranges from platinum caviar to the rare, golden oscietra. They have a lengthy Champagne selection that includes on the top end, Krug, Grande Cuvée MV. They can offer a Taittinger Champagne flight, which is 100ml per glass which is great if you want to pair your glass of bubbly with your seafood.

If you want to impress friends or family with a special treat, do consider inviting them to a High Seas High Tea at The Landmark London.

To find out more about the afternoon tea, please visit

https://www.landmarklondon.co.uk/dining/champagne-bar/

Our roving doggy rePAWter TeamCocopup Charlie and doting dog mum Hannah Tan-Gillies are celebrating International Dog Day in style at the Pan Pacific London – a stylish five-star hotel which delivers five-PAW service for all pampered pooches.

Pan Pacific London brings the unique flavour of Singaporean hospitality to the heart of the City. The hotel towers over One Bishopgate Plaza and is just a hop skip away from Liverpool Street Station and the hipster cool bars and nightclubs of Shoreditch.

The hotel brings together a balanced blend of architecture, contemporary design and cutting-edge technology, alongside boundary-pushing holistic wellbeing. Also offering a varied selection of exciting destination restaurants and bars, Pan Pacific London is the ultimate location for classic yet accessible luxury.

From the moment we set foot in the beautiful lobby – Charlie was treated like a true VIP (Very Important Pooch). The lovely staff at the reception treated him to a banana chewie, AND a French puff pastry.

The Orchid Lounge – offers a delectable seasonal afternoon tea menu which is inspired by the Singapore’s neighbourhood coffee shops – so expect some exotic Asian staples like Kopi Tiam, mixed with the British classics.

The 43-storey bronze tower offers 237 rooms which are the picture of elegance and tranquillity. Curved walls and neutral palettes welcome guests into the rooms, whilst custom headboards act as personalised art pieces, adding a layer of calm through the depiction of oak, elder, elm and maple trees. The zen-like bathrooms give off an air of tranquillity. Dressed in sleek grey marble and with heated floors and a wealth of amenities – it’s the perfect place to relax and recharge after a day of exploring all that East London has to offer.

We were upgraded to one of the more premium top-floor rooms which offered incredible views of the City. Charlie was greeted with a luxury dog bed and dog bowls, while we were greeted with some delicious chocolate treats.

The Paws and Pan Pacific package gives pampered pooches a true VIP stay as pets can relax and indulge with bespoke massages, reiki healing, puppy yoga and even dog walks and training sessions care of the Concierge. They even have their own breakfast and dinner menu, created by dog behaviourist and nutritionist Anna Webb, which can be served in-room or in Straits Kitchen.

Charlie’s Sushi style lamb hot pot dinner looked so delicious – that I simply had to take a bite. His dish comprised of lightly seared lamb on a bed of mash parsnips, carrots and homemade chicken-bone broth gravy – and honestly smelled and tasted better than your average pub meal. For breakfast, he was served sous vide lam sausages on mash – and the look on his face told us that he had honestly never eaten anything better in his entire doggy life.

The gastronomic offer for humans is equally, if not more, impressive. For dinner, we dined at the Strait’s Kitchen, the hotel’s signature restaurant. Led by Head Chef Nick Yung, Straits Kitchen is a love letter to Southeast Asian cuisine and boy does it deliver. Dishes like Hainanese Chicken Rice and Lotus Root Salad show that this isn’t a Westernised pan-Asian restaurant – but one that truly respects its roots. It certainly doesn’t hurt that the chic interiors, floor-to-ceiling windows and eclectic collection of art adds to the experience too. Plus there is a fantastic selection of Chinese wines – with the Riesling our top vintage.

When it was time to check out, we had well and truly fallen in love with Pan Pacific London and though it may be a bold statement to say, this is definitely the best and most luxurious hotel experience Charlie has ever had in the city. 15 out of 5 paws from Charlie.

Available as an add on to any overnight stay, with rooms starting from £520 +VAT, the Paws at Pan Pacific London package is priced from £60 per pet per stay. Book now: www.panpacific.com