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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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

News that summer is over has been made that little bit easier as Matt Healy x The Foundry has revealed its new autumn/winter menu, just in time for the colder months.

Brand new dishes include roasted partridge with bread sauce and game chips; dry-aged rack of lamb with warm Caesar salad; beef fillet with horseradish potato, shallots and mushrooms; braised pig cheek with orzo pasta and crispy skin; and truffle mac and cheese with nduja.

Meat-free options include sweet onion risotto with aged Parmesan, a homemade crumpet with roasted sweetcorn butter and quail’s egg, and spiced sweet potatoes with pomegranate, spinach and yogurt.

Matt Healy, owner and head chef, said: “We’re constantly adapting our offering – this is our third incarnation of the menu since opening earlier this year.

“We’ve had such positive feedback and support so far, but it’s important to keep pushing the boundaries and evolving.

“Our latest menu offers hearty dishes full of flavour – perfect winter warmers for the colder months.”

To make a reservation, call 0113 245 0390 or visit mhfoundry.co.uk.

It seems that I was destined to have a love affair with all things Italian from a very young age. Holidays consisted of gorging on fresh pasta and collecting broken seashells in Positano, as a teenager I slyly stole sips of limocello off of the dinner table and by my early twenties I had fallen hook, line and sinker for one of Italy’s most famous exports – Gucci. Oh, and not forgetting my boyfriend is a very suave Italian.

Last year I took a trip to Milan where my mornings were spent drinking cappuccinos (Italians never drink milky coffee post midday) and my evenings spent swilling Aperol spritz and indulging in charcuterie platters paired with tart green and black olives. I had added another Italian love to my ever-growing list – the art of aperitivo.

We all know London is great, but with the lack of sun putting a damper on post-work plans, you can’t guarantee a packet of crisps and a pint will show you a good time. Sure, we have tea, biscuits and crumpets but the Italians have effortless glamour, lip smackingly good light bites and oh course, that enviable dolce vita. Forget ‘thirsty Thursdays’, the swanky Mayfair restaurant Quaglino’s is bringing the age-old Italian apertivo tradition to town.

Expect to be seduced by the sultry sounds of an Italian live band (and maybe by a handsome waiter or two) whilst sipping on a menu of eight exceptional cocktails accompanied by a platter of Italian small bites.

For a quick Italian jaunt without the back-crushing Ryanair bucket seats, opt to enjoy one of the existing Q Aperitivo cocktails, which are each inspired by different regions in Italy – I’d highly recommend the Il Pupo. An intoxicating bittersweet Sicilian blend of oregano infused Belvedere, Mama’s homemade orange marmalade and spice ginger ale.

Cheat on your usual and spice it up with one of three new delights. The classic Aperol Spritz I’m so fond of has been given a refreshing makeover, the Italicus bergamot liqueur gives it a bold, botanical taste whilst the watermelon smooths out the La Serenissima cocktail. The Aqua Vita balances sweet and sour expertly with a Moscata Grappa infused with strawberries, honey and blood-orange. For those seeking the strong stuff, order a Flegrea. A combination of Tanquerary gin, dry vermouth and Maraschino blended with a fragrant chartreuse liqueur. When paired with complimentary charcuterie platters, feta stuffed petters and moorish arancini balls you’ll soon forget you’re still in good ol’ Blighty. That is until you have to collect your brolly at the door…

What: Q Aperitivo at Quaglino’s

Where: Quaglino’s, 16 Bury Street, St Jame’s, London, SW1Y 6AJ

When: Every Thursday from 3rd May

For more information please contact: quaglinos@notionpr.com

After a top to bottom designer led renovation, the Athenaeum Hotel & Residences reopens its doors to the public with 134 new bedrooms, 10 new suites, and a smashing new Private members club with one heck of a view.

Designer by award-winning interior designer Martin Hulbert, whose other works include Chewton Glen and Cliveden House, the Athenaeum Hotel & Residences is a jewel in the heart of Central London. Outside, the hotel’s iconic facade remains the same, but inside it is transformed into the epitome contemporary luxury charm. Martin Hulbert paid homage to the hotel’s iconic Mayfair heritage while adding a plenty of Art Deco references. Think floor to ceiling windows, lush textures, herringbone weaves, bespoke carpets — only the best will do for the Grande Dame of Piccadilly.

In addition to this, the hotel also encourages its guests to #lookatlondondifferently through an art series that reimagines local landmarks through quirky and whimsical installations. Some of the landmarks included are Buckingham Palace, Burlington Arcade, Fortnum & Masons, and the Royal Academy of Arts. All beloved Mayfair Institutions, that are all just a stone’s throw away from the hotel if you’re in the mood for a little winter stroll.

The piece de resistance of the new renovation is undeniably the newly renovated Penthouse, now known as ‘The View’ — an exclusive members club reserved only forthe Athenaeum’s distinguished clientele. Aside from having the best panoramic view of the London skyline, The View takes the concept of a high-end guest experience both literally and figuratively.Their namesake view was once reserved only for the hotel’s penthouse guests, but has now been opened to all hotel guests, and believe us, it’s definitely jaw-dropping. Inspired by the concept of a metaphorical ‘rabbit hole’, The View invites its guests to be completely immersed in new and unexpected experiences. Fancy an impromptu cocktail masterclass or maybe even a mindfulness session overlooking Green Park? Then definitely book a room in The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences for your next luxury London staycation. Because here, the only membership you need is your room key.

A stay at The Athenaeum is available to book now. Prices start from £330 including VAT per room per night. For more information www.athenaeumhotel.com

There’s nothing like London in the fall, and when the autumn leaves are turning and everyone whips out their chunkiest scarves, we’re making our way to The Coral Room at the BloomsburyHotel for a taste of the tropics and the best cocktails intown.

Located in The Bloomsbury Hotel, the Coral Room is the result of a head-to-toe renovation of the original Edward Lutyens designed hotel lobby. Helmed by Martin Brudnizki, this building has been utterly transformed into a stylish oasis right in the heart of Bloomsbury. Everything about The Coral Room pops; from the art deco inspired touches, the bright coloured walls, and alluring textures. Everything makes you feel like you have stepped into a Wes Anderson film scene (the Darjeeling Limited and the Grand Budapest Hotel come to mind) Tropical motifs add a cheeky element of warmth, and the ample amount of foliage allows some reprieve from even chilliest London afternoon. The focal point however is definitely the stylish Calcutta marble bar. Interior designer Martin Brudnizki definitely outdid himself here, by successfully making the cavernous 2,100 double ceilinged space feel both glamorous and inviting. The key? — colour, and lot’s of it.The Coral walls are accented with brass, gold, Murano glass, and the clever pink-tinted details; all making The Coral Room one of the most Instagrammable spots town.

Moving from interior design to the menu, let’s talk about the brunch. We tried the delightful Chicory Salad, the veggie Shakshuka, accompanied by a generous helping of truffle fries (of course!)Although it was almost impossible to decide because the brunch menu offers a concise but tempting selection of some revamped classics. I helped myself to a couple martini glasses of the fabulous Gin Lane cocktail. A perfect mixture of Hendricks gin, St. Germain, rose syrup, and Viognier, the Gin Lane is delicious and danger in equal measure. As one can easily knock back a few of these sinfully saccharine concoctions without even thinking twice. If you are feeling a little extra indulgent, do check out their extensive list of English sparkling wines, which is one of the largest London has to offer. Take a few recommendations from the absolutely charming bar manager, Giovanni Spezziga, whose infectious Italian charm will not just provide you with some truly fantastic sparkling wine choices, but will also leave you feeling absolutely pampered.This and so much more make The Coral Room the most stylish place in Bloomsbury for a drink, afternoon tea, brunch, or everything all at once.

The Coral Room

Here at House of Coco we have a penchant for a good brunch offering, especially when it’s a little bit healthy so that we can get away with some (almost) guilt free social fun with our friends. Lively Mexican hotspot Cielo Blanco located at Trinity in Leeds, is excited to launch its new brunch concept, and it’s already got the thumbs up from #TeamCoco.

Fresh, delicious dishes with a superfood twist will be served everyday from 10am-2pm, served alongside a list of enticing Mexican cocktails curated by bartending legend, Jake F.Burger.

Inspired by Mexico’s colourful and relaxed food culture, Cielo Blanco will serve a brunch for champions, that is, a duo or team, as the menu has been designed with sharing in mind. Highlights include Huevos Rancheros – the classic staple of any Mexican breakfast, loaded with streaky bacon, avocado and Cielo Blanco’s own ranchera salsa, The Cauliflower Rosti & Greens – Cielo Blanco’s secret recipe rosti served with a poached egg, steamed tenderstem broccoli with curly kale, and the Grilled Plantain with smashed avocado served on a pinto bean quesadilla. Dishes definitely worthy of a breakfast fiesta.

To balance the superfood goodness, a tempting menu of cocktails is available including the Breakfast Paloma (Ocho Blanco Tequila, grapefruit marmalade, lime, agave and freshly pressed pink grapefruit juice) and Cielo Blanco’s Bloody Maria (El Jimador Blanco Tequila, Ancho Reyes Chile Liquer, Mexican spices and tomato juice).

For diners who prefer a hydrating boost, a tasty list of refreshing Mexican ‘Aguas Frescas’ fruit waters and super juices are the restaurant’s speciality. Pick from a large variation, squeezed to order, such as Watermelon Cooler (Watermelon, cucumber,lime & agave), the Amarillo (Yellow pepper, pineapple, fresh turmeric & lime) or the Agua De Horchata (A traditional drink made with rice, almond milk, cinnamon & vanilla).

Finally, guests can leisurely sip a selection of traditional Mexican hot drinks including Cafe de olla con pique – a Mexican coffee with cinnamon, cloves, brown sugar & a shot of tequila or a Champurrado, a traditional Mexican hot chocolate with cinnamon, chili and star anise.

The Cielo Blanco brunch menu will officially launch to diners this April 3rd with prices starting at £5.50 per dish.

Town House at The Kensington launched their new London Landmarks Afternoon Tea this week on board one of the cities infamous icons, The London Eye and Team Coco were invited along to try the menu.

Following the success of their record-breaking Tale As Old As Time offering, the new Afternoon Tea takes inspiration from London’s most recognisable and historic landmarks, taking diners on a tour of the capital’s most famed structures.

On board the London Eye we were served a selection of sandwiches to start, so far pretty standard but the jewel in the crown of this Afternoon Tea comes in their sweet offering. High above the Thames with views stretching as far as Wembley we were served architectural triumphs such as The Gherkin, crafted from White Chocolate with a Dark Chocolate Ganache and The Shard made of Carrot Cake & Milk Chocolate. Alongside an iconic London Telephone Box imagined in Rhubarb Mousse and Big Ben-inspired Lemon Curd Tart, the new London Landmarks Afternoon Tea menu is complete with London’s quintessential treat, Scones served with Heather Hills Strawberry Jam & Clotted Cream. The design and creativity behind the menu is fantastic, these tasty sweet morsels look too good to eat. Town House has successfully captured the London skyline on a plate.

General Manager, Francesco Sardelli told us how his cycle route around London which takes in some of the city’s iconic sights, influenced the menu design. Town House’s new skyline of scones, sandwiches and sweets is available to book now. Paying homage to the capital’s famous buildings, London Landmarks is presented on a London Eye-inspired tea stand. The Afternoon Tea is served alongside a bespoke map of London, beautifully illustrated by Eleni Sofroniou. This pretty pocket map is a cute take-away for guests, highlighting Kensington Palace and The Tower of London as well as archetypal spots such as Covent Garden and Big Ben.

The entire new menu, carefully crafted by Head Chef, Adi Mandokhot is a celebration of London, with guests also able to enjoy a selection of savouries: a cockney staple Steak & London Ale Pie and a Colston Bassett Stilton & Broccoli Quiche alongside a bite-size Crab Cake with Tartare Sauce & Caperberries. Highlights of the sandwich selection include Smoked Salmon, Lovage Pesto & Cream Cheese on Brown Bread, Egg and Cress Bridge Roll using eggs from Heritage breed Copper Marans hens, Coronation Chicken Sandwich on Brown Loaf.

This menu is bound to be a big hit with Afternoon Tea aficionados who are looking for something special. Town House is the signature restaurant at The Kensington hotel and is spread across three classically designed drawing rooms, serving locally-sourced, seasonal modern British cuisine. Nestled in the heart of one of London’s most desirable neighbourhoods – complete with stylish décor, hand-picked furnishings and open fireplaces it’s the perfect setting to indulge in this offering of sweet and savoury delights.

London Landmarks Afternoon Tea Menu is available now at Town House, The Kensington Hotel, £42 per person or £54.50 with a glass of Perrier-Jouët, Grand Brut NV Champagne.

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

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

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

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