28 minute read
US CITIES
New Forest estate
Amagnificent gardens complete with steam railway and cafe, Exbury Gardens is the perfect place to visit this spring. Take a trip here to see the flowers in full bloom and a whole range of non-flowering plants thriving under the bright sunlight and warm weather that has arrived. There's a river winding through the landscape, a Japanese bridge to wander across, plants such as magnolias and hybrid rhododendrons thriving in the woodland and beautiful wisteria that's draped over the Sundial Garden. Best of all, dogs are welcome to explore the gardens with you!
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Where to stay:
Ennio’s Hotel (4.6 stars) from £203 per night.
Foodie
City Breaks
The European culinary scene is ever-evolving. Many of the cities on this list might not have been considered major players in the food scene just a few years ago, which makes Europe such an exciting destination for foodies. Here are 11 cities in Europe that food lovers will surely enjoy exploring.
By Martin Mason and compiled by Lacey Reddin
FOODIE CITY BREAKS
COPENHAGEN
Copenhagen was the city that spawned the ‘New Nordic Cuisine’ culinary trend back in the early aughts. Championed by Rene Redzepi and Claus Meyer of Copenhagen’s now world-famous Noma Restaurant, it revolves around using local ingredients and seasonal produce to create simple, elegant dishes, adapted from traditional Nordic techniques. A number of renowned and Michelin-starred restaurants opened following Noma’s lead, cementing Copenhagen as one of Europe’s great food cities. There are a series of ‘must-have’ dishes to try during a trip to the Danish capital including smoked and pickled herring, Danish cheeses, and the classic Smørrebrød - a Danish openfaced sandwich. Classic examples of Smørrebrød include egg and shrimp, marinated herring, beef tartar, and cod roe all atop buttered rye bread.
LONDON
London’s food scene is an amalgam of traditional culinary vision and the modern innovation. No food-centric trip to London is complete without at least one afternoon tea. This light meal typically comes between lunch and dinner and is taken very seriously in upscale hotels and tea rooms all over the city. If you think this is an antiquated practice long out of style, take a look at the month-long wait to get a reservation in the tea rooms of the Ritz or the Savoy. Visitors will leave full and happy with a Sunday roast at the neighbourhood pub accompanied by a pint of bitters, or some takeaway fish and chips from one of the city’s many ‘chippies.’ Chicken tikka masala is ubiquitous at restaurants city-wide, and is even reported as being the U.K.’s most popular dish. If you’re a veteran London visitor and have had your fill of the classics, the city offers a thriving contemporary restaurant scene with inventive dishes from Michelin-starred kitchens. Indulge in the deep-fried sea anemones at Barrafina in Covent Garden or roasted veal sweetbreads at three-starred Restaurant Gordon Ramsay in Chelsea.
RECOMMENDATION
Schønnemann restaurant - 4.6/5 on Google
“The best smorrebrod restaurant I’ve visited in Copenhagen” Address: Hauser Pl. 16, 1127 København, Denmark
www.restaurantschonnemann.dk
RECOMMENDATION
Core by Claire Smyth- 2-star Michelin star restaurant - 4.8 on Google
Address: 92 Kensington Park Rd, London W11 2PN
www.corebyclaresmyth.com
Bologna is famous for many things, but its market scene is high on the list. Just off of the main square of Piazza Maggiore sits the ancient food market Quadrilatero. Here you’ll find nearly anything your heart desires including fish, pasta, cured meats, baked goods, and produce. A little further away lies the Mercato delle Erbe (vegetable market) where you’ll find more locals and fewer tourists. Fill your bags with fresh, seasonal produce and then head to Osteria Del Sole, a bar that’s been running since 1465! Order up a glass of local wine and nosh on your market purchases - they let you bring your own food. No trip to Bologna is finished without at least one plate of tagliatelle al Ragù (pasta with Bolognese meat sauce) with a hearty topping of parmesan from nearby Parm. An even more authentic dish from this robust food scene is tortellini in brodo, meat filled pasta served in a hot broth or a plate of lasagna Bolognese.
RECOMMENDATION
Sfoglia Rina - 4.6 on Google
Address: Via Castiglione, 5/b, 40124 Bologna BO, Italy
www.sfogliarina.it
BORDEAUX
Much more than just a famous wine in France, the Bordeaux food scene offers the many classic French dishes attracting crowds to France for generations such as duck confit, and foie gras, but its ocean-adjacent location adds a seafood element to the mix. Have your fill of the area’s oysters, langoustines, mussels, shrimp, and clams right along with your steak frites and glass of bold red wine.
RECOMMENDATION
Le Bouchon Bordelais - 4.7 on Google “A must visit on any trip to Bordeaux”
Address: 2 Rue Courbin, 33000 Bordeaux, France
www.bouchon-bordelais.com
Georgia’s capital city, Tbilisi life revolves around food and there’s a thriving restaurant scene to prove it. You may not be able to picture Georgian cuisine off the top of your head but think warm, freshly baked breads, tender roasted meats, dried fruit leathers, ample use of walnuts, and roasted vegetable dishes to give ratatouille a run for its money. Georgia is also one of the oldest wine regions in the world, allowing for superlative natural wines to be found in eateries throughout the capital city. Taste unique dishes and fine wines at Tbilisi restaurants like Gabriadze Theatre Cafe or Purpur, both in the historic part of the city.
SAN SEBASTIAN
No food-centric list of Europe is complete without San Sebastian. Considered by many to be the continent’s food capital, this Spanish Basque city has the second highest concentration of Michelin stars per square mile in the world after Kyoto. Travelers come from all over the globe to take vacations designed around dining in San Sebastian. Known for its pintxos restaurants, the Basque-equivalent of tapas or small plates are found primarily in the old quarter of the city. Don’t forget to throw your napkins on the floor when you’re done, though! It is a tradition and the dirtier the pintxos bar, the better it is.
The city’s molecular gastronomy has caused quite a stir among food enthusiasts in recent years. San Sebastian restaurants like Arzak and Mugaritz serve dishes that play with the physical forms of the ingredients they are comprised of. Each patron receives edible art, ensuring a thought-provoking dining experience. When you’ve had your fill of being served, try a Basque cooking class at the hotel Maria Cristina followed by a night cap of txacoli, the region’s dry, sparkling white wine.
RECOMMENDATION
Nikolozi - 4.8/5 on Google
Address: 32-34 Anton Katalikosi St, Tbilisi, Georgia
RECOMMENDATION
Rekondo - 4.7/5 on Google
Address: Igeldo Pasealekua, 57, 20008 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain
www.rekondo.com
AMSTERDAM
Amsterdam features foods all over the price spectrum. You could visit for a week and subsist solely off of street treats and market fare. Get a fast introduction to the Amsterdam food scene with a plate of cured herring from one of the city’s many herring carts or haringhandels. If it’s cooked fish you crave then try kibbeling, battered and deep fried white fish served with an herbed mayonnaise sauce. Add a cone of thick cut French fries known as patat or frites covered in mayonnaise and curry ketchup and you’ve got yourself a complete, albeit nutritionally void, meal. For dessert treat yourself to a stroopwaffel comprised of two thin waffles sandwiching a gooey layer of caramel, or some oliebollen, deep fried sweet dumplings dusted with powdered sugar.
RECOMMENDATION
Smoked Crispy Bacon Sandwich House - 4.8/5 on Google
Address: weede Tuindwarsstraat 3A, 1015 RX Amsterdam, Netherlands Berlin is a city soaked in history but it would be a mistake to visit just for the walking tours. The last couple decades saw a boom in Berlin’s restaurant scene elevating this German city far beyond the classic soft pretzel and beer pairing. Fans of German food will probably be familiar with the Berlin street dish of currywurst, or sausage with ketchup and curry powder, but the city is teeming with refined and inventive eateries renowned the world over. Those chasing Michelin stars will find their happy place at restaurants like Facil and Weinbar Rutz. More recent additions to the scene include the Berlin chapter of Soho House’s the Store Kitchen, sophisticated Nordic offerings at dóttir, and an upscale carbohydrate heaven at Standard Pizza.
Beyond the classic and the modern, Berlin features food from all over the world. Visitors will find large offerings of Turkish, Vietnamese, Indian, and Thai restaurants, to name just a few.
RECOMMENDATION
Hackethals - 4.6/5 on Google
Address: Pflugstraße 11, 10115 Berlin, Germany
www.hackethals.de
Greece’s second largest city is second to none when it comes to dining. Known as the country’s culinary capital, part of Thessaloniki’s success lies within its proximity to fertile land producing top notch produce including olives, grapes, beans, and grain. Quality ingredients are of the utmost importance when your gastronomic scene is known for its simple, straightforward cuisine in the city’s many mezedopola, casual eateries serving small plates (meze) to accompany alcoholic drinks. There are many nearby wineries producing excellent varietals to pair with your meze, or sip on ouzo, retsina (resinated wine), or tsipouro (pomace brandy) if you prefer.
PARIS
Even if you’ve been to Paris a dozen times, you can always find another brasserie, patisserie, or boulangerie to explore. If you’re looking to dine in a Parisian institution however, Benoit is an excellent choice. The only Parisian bistro to receive a Michelin star, this restaurant dates back to 1912. Experience classics like pâté, escargots, and boeuf bordelaise. If you want to encounter the more contemporary direction of Parisian gastronomy you may be interested in the Korean fried chicken at Hero, or the upscale-but-not-stuffy Franco-Chinois cuisine of Yam’Tcha.
When the multitudes of dining options overwhelm you, why not pack a gourmet picnic in the park? Stop into Claus, a beloved Parisian gourmet grocery and cafe on rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau, then make your way over to the gardens at the Palais Royal for an open air brunch.
RECOMMENDATION
Ουζερί Λόλα - 4.7/5 on Google
Address: Agapinou 10, Thessaloniki 546 21, Greece
RECOMMENDATION
ASPIC - 1 Michelin Star restaurant - 4.8/5 on Google
“Vast variety of flavor combinations and fantastic staff let us have a wonderful night in Paris. I can recommend the wine pairing, that delicately “accompagné” les course.!” Address: 24 Rue Louise-Émilie de la Tour d’Auvergne, 75009 Paris, France
www.aspic-restaurant.fr
ROME
A foodie’s trip to Rome is akin to a pilgrimage to Mecca. Among all the grandeur and ancient architecture of the city lie restaurants combining simple fresh ingredients into dishes that far surpass the sum of their parts. Nowhere is this more evident than with the classic Roman dish, Cacio e pepe. Translating to ‘cheese and pepper’ the dish is made solely with black pepper, Pecorino Romano cheese, and pasta (usually spaghetti). A certain gastronomic alchemy takes over when the ingredients are combined to create a dish that has been consumed since ancient times.
Another distinctive quality of Roman food is their adept ability to use the ‘poor man’s’ ingredients known as the fifth quarter, or quinto quarto. These are the offal of animals that are often thrown away elsewhere including the tongue, tripe, brain, and liver. If you’re an adventurous eater you’ll be in dining heaven and if you’re a picky eater why not say ‘when in Rome!’ and expand your horizons with quinto quarto.
RECOMMENDATION
CiPASSO Bistrot - 4.9/5 starts on Google
“One of the highlights of our Roman holiday. Wine, truffle pasta, ravaoli, salad, and even their bread + olive oil were epic. Make a reservation and enjoy!
Address: Via Metastasio, 21, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
www.cipassoitalia.it
LONDON HOT SPOTS
IRRESISTIBLE PLACES TO VISIT FOR A SPRING STAYCATION IN THE CAPITAL
London is the vibrant centre of everything that is hip & happening in the UK, set against the charming backdrop of its historical streets and squares. So why not jump on a train and take a staycation in the capital to check out the latest hot spots and a few old favourites. Martin Mason brings you our tips for the perfect Spring weekend.
Compiled by Lacey Reddin
Places 153
Hotels 156
Camden is a well-known cultural neighbourhood in north London. Known for its alternative culture, the crowds here are filled with goths, punks, rockabillies and tourists alike. Camden has a vibrant body mod community, and you will find a number of piercing and tattoo shops in this part of town. Camden Market is eclectic and diverse, featuring street food from international cuisines, and lots of stalls selling trinkets and unique artwork to take home. Rummage through vintage clothing racks, find a used book to take on your travels, or visit one of the city’s best vegan bakeries at Cookies and Scream. After your shopping spree, stroll down to Camden Lock to relax by Regent’s Canal or walk along the water all the way to King’s Cross.
Soho
Soho has long been known as the base of London’s sex industry. The area is now the most popular nightlife spot although there are still some sex shops dotted here and there, giving Soho a delightfully risqué vibe. Soho is often considered the centre of the city’s LGBTQ* community with plenty of gay and lesbian bars to check out after the sun goes down. In addition to bars and clubs, Soho has a number of theatres, jazz bars and restaurants to explore, making it a cultural hotspot. Its close proximity to Leicester Square means it’s also a great place to go for a few drinks after a play or stage show. During the day, Soho loses none of its charm. Here you’ll find lots of music shops, small cafes and quaint bakeries. Stop for a coffee and pastry on Old Compton Street for perfect people-watching.
Shoreditch is one of the trendiest areas of London having recently undergone extensive regeneration. It is now one of the hottest nightlife spots in the city and one of the coolest places to stay in London. Packed full of bars and eateries, it’s the perfect place to spend a day and an evening. Check out Trapeze, a circus-themed bar that serves endlessly inventive drinks out of popcorn tub-style cups. For pop culture lovers, there’s Far Rockaway, a chilled bar and restaurant filled with comic books, band posters and a regular 90s night. Or visit the Blues Kitchen for a blues night accompanied by sticky ribs and other American staple.
Hampstead Heath
Hampstead Heath is one of the largest parks in London, covering a massive 790 acres. It sits atop of one of the highest points in London, offering excellent views of the city from Parliament Hill. The Heath features grassy fields, wooded areas, and a number of large ponds. It is the best place to experience nature in London with plenty of wildlife around and small woods in which to get lost. There are swimming lidos for those feeling brave enough to swim outdoors in the great British weather. For history buffs, visit Kenwood House, a historical stately home that is known for its curated art collection.
The BFI – or British Film Institute – is a must-see for film lovers. The BFI is situated on the ever-popular Southbank and is the perfect spot to relax after a stroll along the waterfront taking in the culture and atmosphere of this vibrant part of the city. The BFI show films every day, from mainstream blockbusters to reshowing’s of cult classics to one-off screenings of indie hits. There is also a library and shop for those who like to take their cinema seriously. The BFI also houses its own bar and riverfront restaurant for a delicious meal or to chat about the latest film releases over some drinks.
A Thames Cruise
The Thames is the lifeblood of London, bringing industry to the city for centuries. It is England’s longest river, leading into the North Sea at its end. It has been the base for settlements since prehistoric times and was a strategic importance to the Romans and English Kings, as well as during both World Wars. There are a number of companies in London offering cruises across the Thames. Cruises run as regularly as every 30 minutes from several key locations. The cruises pass several key sightseeing locations, including Tower Bridge, the Houses of Parliament, and the London Eye. Some cruises run at night so you can see the sights all lit up, whilst others are served with a meal or afternoon tea. This is a lovely and unique way to view the city, traveling along the historic Thames.
Emirates Air Line across the water
One of the cultural staples of London is Baker Street, best known as the street that Arthur Conan Doyle’s infamous detective Sherlock Holmes lived on.
Today you can find a Sherlock Holmes Museum near the Underground station, especially popular after the BBC revival ‘Sherlock’.
Madame Tussauds is just around the corner, the internationally famous wax museum where you can pose with your favourite celebrities.
Afterwards, escape the crowds of Baker Street in the nearby Regent’s Park, or by climbing Primrose Hill for London’s most spectacular view of the city.
The O2
The O2 Arena was originally constructed in celebration of the millennium, under the name of ‘The Millennium Dome’. It once acted as exhibition centre with various exhibits and handson activities aimed primarily at children. Today, it is a premier destination for live music and stage shows, hosting the biggest names in entertainment on a regular basis. It also houses a cinema as well as various bars and restaurants featuring cuisines from all over the world. The O2 is an ideal spot to hang out with friends. If you’re seeking some adventure, try climbing to the top of the O2. On these guided walks, you can climb along the dome to the roof where you will witness beautiful views of the city. Afterwards, take the Emirates Air Line across the water. The Air Line is a cable car link offering an exciting and unique view of the city.
Brick Lane was made famous by the book and film adaptation of the same title. As the book’s narrative made clear, Brick Lane is the heart of London’s Bangladeshi community. An incredibly diverse neighbourhood, Brick Lane features road signs in both English and Bengali and is well-known for its abundance of curry houses. This is the perfect spot to find something spicy to eat but be sure to go to one of the many sweet shops for some authentic South Asian desserts. The area also features a number of trendy bars as well as regular marketplaces, attracting a young and fashionable crowd.
For an art fix, head around the corner to find Whitechapel Gallery – or hunt down the many pieces of street art on Brick Lane and its neighbouring streets.
Electric Avenue
Electric Avenue is a street in Brixton, south London, famous because it was the first market street in London to be lit by electricity. It spawned the #1 song by Eddy Grant and has been the centre of some parts of London history, including the Brixton race riots in 1981. Today, Electric Avenue is home to Brixton Market, a diverse and eclectic food market. Afterwards, check out the rest of the neighbourhood. Brixton features a multitude of small businesses selling unique, quirky and handmade items. This is one of the most diverse areas of London and an excellent spot to do some shopping or catch some live music.
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:
www.dukeshotel.com
020 7491 4840
DUKES LONDON, ST JAMES
Ever since King Henry 8th built his palace here in the 16th Century, the St. James area has been the exclusive retreat of writers, musicians, politicians and royalty. DUKES London is a five-star, English country house in the heart of London where Ian Fleming drank dry martinis at the bar and Edward Elgar composed symphonies. Once a favourite of the Queen Mother and Princess Diana, you are in very good company when you stay at this timeless favourite.
The storied hotel delivers discretion with a friendly face from a series of townhouses tucked away off St James’ with its own private courtyard dating back to 1532. The 87-room hotel (with fifteen suites) has earned a loyal following from those who return time and again for the attentive service and classic décor. The guest is king at DUKES and no request is too much. A recently refurbished basement gym offers the space to work out and unwind, and the Duke’s Health Club provides treatments and massage, which can be booked with the concierge.
Rooms
Rooms are simple but elegantly appointed with crisp white bed linen on the beds, cream walls and beige carpets and scatter cushions to add a burst of tasteful colour. Our room was spacious with armchairs, writing desk, a huge king-sized bed, and a delightful balcony, you can see why the most discerning of guests like it here. A highlight was taking the elevator (dating back to its opening day) with its original cushioned bench, up to the second floor. I love technology but there is something comforting about being given a ‘real key’ to your room in a traditional property rather than those modern swipe cards.
Food & drink
GBR, the ground-floor restaurant, is one of London’s finest spots for classic British food. Not only was the food delicious and served in generous portions but it is elegantly served, and the descriptions in the menu lead you exactly towards the dish that appears. But the star attraction is Dukes Bar. A perennial favourite of in-the-know drinkers, it was a regular haunt of Bond author Ian Fleming, who supposedly took the idea for 007’s cocktail of choice (Martini, shaken not stirred) from here. Head bartender Alessandro Palazzi cut his teeth at the Ritz Paris in the 1980s and has been leading the charge at Dukes since 2007, immaculately dressed in a white tuxedo.
“Our verdict
DUKES London is a hidden gem that’s boutique perfect in almost every way. The quintessentially English hotel dates from 1908 and it remains an iconic and traditional place to stay (the Union Jack still flies above the hotel’s courtyard ”entrance), while the cocktail bar never disappoints. You won’t be disappointed in choosing Dukes for your next trip to the capital.
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:
LONDON MARRIOTT HOTEL COUNTY HALL
Wonderfully located on the river’s edge of the Southbank with spectacular views across the Thames of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, is the luxurious five-star London Marriott Hotel County Hall. Previously home to the political elite, this iconic building sits in one of the most prominent positions in London.
Opened in 1922 by King George V, the hotel’s history is evident as soon as you step through its grand entrance, lots of dark wood panelling, classic fixtures and fittings and decadent details, including the prominent original marble fireplace opposite reception. The London Marriott County Hall is a high-class option for those looking to explore the nearby areas of Westminster and local tourist attractions. The hotel has a fitness centre and large indoor heated swimming pool both located on level 5, alongside an executive lounge.
Rooms
The spacious rooms are tastefully decorated to a modern, luxurious standard with white panelled walls, plush pillowtop beds, elegant marble bathrooms and quirky artwork. Marble bathrooms with black-and-white tiled floors have great showers plus stylish wallpaper that depicts a historic map of London from the time when the building first came to be. The crown jewel was the suite with a private balcony overlooking the London Eye. It offered quite possibly the best hotel view of the River Thames in London.
Food
Further along the polished floors lies Gillray’s Steakhouse & Bar. The corridors of this building may echo times past but enter Gillray’s and it’s like stepping forward. Gillray’s offers delicious English produce to enjoy while taking in panoramic views of the Thames. The restaurant specialises in beef and gin – two very British delicacies – with nine cuts of steak and more than 100 English spirits on offer. Our steaks were simply delicious and matched with an exceptional wine recommendation, it was a real treat to the taste buds. And it’s not just the food here that’s first class, the service in the bar and restaurant was just as good.
“Our verdict
The London Marriott Hotel County Hall boasts a prime location which is perfect for exploring the sights of London.
Traditional, stylish, and spacious it perfectly embodies
British charm and modern luxury. And with those ” astonishing river views, no wonder the hotel is classed as one of the most photographed hotels in the capital.
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT:
PAN PACIFIC LONDON THE CITY
Located at One Bishopsgate Plaza, a 43-floor, bronze-clad skyscraper houses Pan Pacific London. A smart haven that blends Singaporean hospitality with contemporary British design in the heart of the city, moments from Liverpool Street and the ever-cool Shoreditch, as well as the capital’s most recognisable landmarks: St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, and Tower Bridge.
The first European outpost from the Singaporean hotel group, the Pan Pacific London achieves what Singapore does best: serene, natural spaces within a metropolis. Neutral tones and fresh finishes are the order of the day here. Plants chosen for their health benefits are also dotted throughout, from orchids to terrariums planted with bonsai trees. Pan Pacific London boasts some impressive ecofriendly credentials. Wellness lovers will go directly to the fourth-floor infinity pool overlooking the bobbing heads of commuters on Bishopsgate. There are also treatment rooms and relaxation pods for destressing and sampling traditional South-east Asian treatments and clean beauty, plus a 24-hour high-performance gym.
Rooms
We stayed in one of the Executive Rooms located on floors 13 to 19 which place you right in front of the Gherkin landmark. Bedrooms are soft and soothing with no harsh angles; everything is curved. Marble bathrooms with enormous shower spaces provide a haven of calm and the bedrooms provide a peaceful place to retire after days out exploring. You’ll also appreciate the floor-to-ceiling windows and king-sized beds with blissful bed linen.
Food & drink
The stylish destination bar, Ginger Lily, is well worth a visit. Choose from an extensive menu of Champagnes or explore the cocktail menu, which has a focus on rum and weaves in interesting Singaporean flavours. A highlight was the Wilson, a delightful mix of Havana 7 lime and coconut. We dined at Straits Kitchen; the all-day dining restaurant designed to highlight the cuisine of multicultural Singapore. Start with the Merlion Platter, a selection of street food favourites from around Asia, then enjoy Asian dishes, such as wok-fried chilli crab, lobster laksa and spiced duck breast with crispy noodles. Everything we had was excellent and paired with a great wine choice by our waiter.
“Our verdict
