Categories
Food London News Restaurant Reviews

W Hotel London AFTERNOON TEA WITH ARTIST LOIS O’HARA: Bringing Palette to Plate

W London partners with artist LOIS O’HARA Unveiling colourful Afternoon tea: A fusion of Well-being, creativity And Culinary delights. An exclusive feature by FnB columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International. 

W London is proud to introduce an innovative collaboration with Brighton-based artist Lois O’Hara, redefining the traditional afternoon tea experience. This exciting partnership brings together Lois’ unique artistic vision with W London’s Pastry Consultant Leyre to create an afternoon tea experience that transcends the ordinary. 

Drawing inspiration from the realms of well-being and fostering positive mental health, the menu features five different desserts designed to inspire and delight. First up is “Zen,” combining passion fruit, mango, and matcha tea, evoking Asian cultures and tranquillity. “Clear Mind” offers the pure essence of orange and olive oil, a nod to Leyre’s Spanish roots. “Nature” celebrates the joys of a garden harvest with blueberry and lemon. “Connect” brings people together with the classic pairing of peanut and chocolate. Finally, “Creativity” ventures into uncharted territory with raspberry and black sesame, delivering a surprising and delightful flavour experience. 

“Joy” a curated cocktail is the perfect afternoon tea pairing. A fusion of Boxer Gin, Oolong Tea, pandan, vanilla and lemon to create a revitalising aperitif in a vibrant chartreuse hue. Bringing palette to plate, the colourful cakes are paired with an assortment of savoury sandwiches from beetroot-cured smoked Scottish salmon, cream cheese, dill and tobiko to smoked chicken with tarragon mayonnaise, cucumber and Dorset mint butter. Adding an element of British tradition, the afternoon tea also features freshly baked scones, clotted cream and jams.  

Lois O’Hara’s artistic direction extends beyond the menu, setting this collaboration apart by delving into the seamless integration of art and gastronomy. A bespoke cake stand designed in her signature curved silhouette and limited-edition plates are served alongside the playful menu.

Lois O’Hara’s talent shines through her ability to harmonise colours and evoke positivity through her art. Her designs, characterized by fluid movement and unconventional colour palettes, encourage introspection and immersion. Her art brings vibrancy to the W Lounge, perfectly complementing the distinct identity of W Hotels. 

Pastry Consultant Leyre Pedrazuela, known for her commitment to simple and sustainable patisserie, has risen to the challenge of creating desserts that embody the essence of Lois’ art, while staying true to her ethos of using natural ingredients with reduced sugar content. Each pastry is a unique composition of flavours and textures, offering an unparalleled sensory experience. 

Leyre’s approach to each dessert is akin to crafting a work of art, ensuring that they not only look visually stunning but also provide an explosion of flavour and texture in every bite. This attention to detail is what makes the afternoon tea a truly remarkable experience. 

Lois O’Hara and Leyre comment, “We have something truly awesome here – a sensory journey that combines art, taste, and emotion, all set to captivate your senses and leave an indelible mark on your memory.” As an added luxury, Lois O’Hara will create a bespoke mural in W Lounge for Frieze London, celebrating her vibrant creativity and adding a further pop of colour to the afternoon tea experience.  

Rohan Almeida is the Head chef at W London with 17 years of experience in hospitality industry. “Our Afternoon tea menu at W london with Lois O’hara is a fusion of art, creativity and culinary delights. We have got bespoke stands designed, we serve traditional finger sandwiches with a modern flair with some open sandwiches, also pastries blend well with the design and pattern of artist’s strokes and this in my view makes this one of a kind afternoon tea experience even more unique, and complete with a toast of a cocktail that gives you many reasons to celebrate “JOY “- Chef Rohan 

The afternoon tea is served daily, from 1pm until 5pm. Gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian options are also available upon request too. The service is exquisite and servers helpfully abreast the diners with details of the wonderfully presented artistic afternoon tea, which is absolutely outstanding. The taste across the menu is top-notch, the presentation is alluring, the portion sizes are very generous, tea selection is exquisite, cocktail is on point, and all in all this is a must try afternoon tea experience. Very Highly Recommended! 

About W Lounge

Step into W Lounge at W London and be transported to a world of sophistication and elegance. The dark wooden flooring and walls create a warm and inviting atmosphere, while the petrol leather booths alongside the window provide the perfect spot to relax and unwind.

About W Hotels   

Born from the bold, 24/7 culture of New York City, W Hotels has redefined hospitality for over two decades, breaking the norms of traditional luxury wherever the iconic W sign lands. With more than 60 hotels around the globe, the detail-driven design, iconic Whatever/Whenever service and buzzing, signature Living Rooms create an experience that is often imitated but never matched. Dynamic and invigorating, the brand celebrates each travelers’ desire to uncover the destination through a lens that is distinctly W.

ALSO READ: Knightsbridge Culinary Icon, Sumosan Twiga, To Reopen In September 2023

Categories
Food Lite Blogs Restaurant Reviews

GONZO: A New Must-Try Pan-Asian Restaurant in Delhi

GONZO, A neighborhood restaurant and bar inspired by the bucket cocktail vans of Bangkok, the vast array of dumplings found across the streets of Asia and sizzling stone bowls loved by many gave Gonzo a unique identity that the brand creators felt was missing in Delhi. An exclusive feature by FnB columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

The Character inspiration behind Gonzo is Dr Gonzo portrayed by Johny Depp in the movie Fear & Loathing in Las Vegas. This is the kind of vibe you can expect coming to Gonzo.

As the name suggests, Gonzo, resonates with carefree adventure so the restaurant have tried to have every element and corner of the restaurant to reflect a little bit of the wild and crazy that can be in all of us! Discerning diners will find a one of a kind live dumpling market, a nostalgic arcade with the favourite games of the 90s and a neon red glow to excite the senses while they sip and eat. 

Walk into Gonzo and get nostalgic playing some super mario, order up some dumplings and a cocktail bucket with your crew. Share some stories, enjoy some music, fuel your pan-Asian food cravings and Gonzo is all about a delectable meal experience. The service is attentive, the restaurant interiors are charming and vibe is exceptional for a neighbourhood restaurant. 

Gonzo sure gives delhiites an instant teleportation to the streets of Bangkok having cocktail buckets, street eats and creating fun memories! 

Gonzo is the brain child of and conceptualized by one of India’s leading Restaurant and Food consultant , Raminder Bakshi. Raminder Bakshi is the founder and leading advisor, developer and deft-risk mitigator at The Art Culinnaire. Raminder Bakshi, has more than almost three decades of experience in the Hospitality and F&B industry. His decisive leadership qualities, expertise and passion for his art have helped him in setting up many a Food Court, Multinational QSR, Hotels, Restaurants & Resorts.

He presents himself as a one-stop solution for all F&B related requirements, having acquired such diverse experiences in domestic as well as international markets with a fair understanding of “International Business Standards”. International markets into which he has forayed with great success and left his indelible mark include Jordon, New York, London, Melbourne, and Dubai.

At present he owns THE ART CULINNAIRE which specializes in conceptualization and execution of restaurants / hotels / base kitchens / banquets / outdoor catering / air catering services / institutional catering / quick service restaurants and much more. TAC also provides services like upgradation and updating of operational restaurants, facility planning, and recruitment of food and beverage personnel, product development, operational setup, technical trainings to staff and retainer ship of the day-to-day running of the business.

Categories
Food Lite Blogs Restaurant Reviews

Rajasthani Food Festival at Radisson Gurugram – Khamma Ghani!

Diners in Delhi, NCR are in for a culinary treat with an array of delicately handcrafted dishes with the best in taste this September as Radisson Gurugram, Udyog Vihar’s team of expert chefs curate a range of delectable dishes from the state of Rajasthan. Known for its distinct taste, Rajasthani cuisine is known to be the most befitting meals of erstwhile Maharajas and is made with authentic  regional ingredients and resplendent with robust flavours. An exclusive feature by FnB columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

Discerning diners can gorge on some favourites and classics by starting the meal with a wholesome Mangodi ka Shorba, Bajre ki Raab or Kesari Lassi, followed by Sarso Murgh Tikka, Kasoori Mutton, Maas ki boti or Kalmi vada to name a few. Don’t miss out on the classics Laal Maas, Banjara Murgh, Marwari Fish Curry, Sangari Kofta curry, Jungli Maas, Govinda Gatte Curry among other delicacies. For choice of other delish mains, guests can dig into Mangochi kadi, Kachi Haldi ki sabzi, Dahi Bhindi, Rajasthani Panch mela dal and more. Then on to  some delicious desserts like Kaju Katli, Raj Bhog, Malpua Rabri Roll, Rajasthani Ghewar et al to complete your meal experience fit for royalty! 

Sangari Kofta Curry

For this outstanding regional Rajasthani cuisine experience head to Cafe NH 8 at Radisson Gurugram, Udyog Vihar to savour their delights. The service too is outstanding and always attentive. The vibe is inviting and upbeat with the menu offerings that sure satisfy the tastebuds! Highly Recommended! 

ABOUT RADISSON GURUGRAM UDYOG VIHAR

Conveniently located in the heart of the city’s business district, Radisson Gurugram Udyog Vihar offers easy access to Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and attractions like the Trampoline park and Oysters Beach Water Park. Our contemporary, full-service hotel also lies near Ambience Mall, where you can browse more than 200 stores. After your business meeting at DLF Cybercity, you can take a break at DLF CyberHub, an integrated dining and entertainment destination.

Govinda Gatte Curry

Spanning more than 35000 sq feet, their convening facilities at Radisson are perfect for events ranging from small corporate meetings to elegant receptions for up to 400 guests. Their experienced staff is happy to help you choose from two ballrooms, a boardroom, a banquet porch, and an outdoor pool area to best fit your needs. You can also take advantage of audiovisual equipment, soundproof partitions, and free Wi-Fi for guests. 

Categories
Food London News Restaurant Reviews

Knightsbridge Culinary Icon, Sumosan Twiga, To Reopen In September 2023

One of London’s most loved dining spots, Sumosan Twiga, has announced a dramatic interior renovation and refresh to all entertainment, ushering in a new era for the Knightsbridge venue from September 2023. After being established by entrepreneur and F1 legend, Flavio Briatore in 1998, the Twiga brand landed in Knightsbridge in 2016 as an iconic partnership between two renowned restaurants, Sumosan and Twiga, bringing exceptional Japanese and Italian cuisine together under one roof. An exclusive feature by FnB columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

The famed restaurant has something for everyone, as the space transforms from an intimate dinner spot into a buzzing venue as the evening goes on, from after-work aperitivo, to dinner dates, to late- night dancing with friends.

The three-storey venue has been renovated from top to bottom, including the second-floor bar, the first-floor restaurant and the downstairs club. 

The new interiors reflect Briatore’s love of Africa, which originally inspired the Twiga concept as he sought to translate his fascination with the coastal landscape of Malindi, Kenya, into a welcoming yet glamorous gathering spot. Sumosan’s style is also present, with Japanese artwork hanging on the walls, a new cocktails list with signature Japanese flavours, and a new open kitchen counter in the restaurant, where guests can watch the chefs as they create exquisite sushi selections and other Japanese dishes.

Throughout the venue, a savannah-inspired colour palette and motifs takes prominence, including plush velvet and leather furnishings in clay, gold and amber tones and a bold zebra-stripe carpet along the three-storey staircase.

The restaurant

For sophisticated dining, the first-floor restaurant has been completely revamped including a striking, geometric black and white tiled floor made from Italian marble. The monochromatic theme continues with checked dogtooth curtains, an impressive black marble fireplace and black picture frames highlighting the curated African and Asian objets d’art. The restaurant is ideal for sophisticated dinners, with à la carte Japanese and Italian menus, and a weekly programme of entertainment including live bands and DJs.

The bar

Just upstairs, on the second floor, the bar promises a vibrant and high-energy evening for guests visiting for drinks, nibbles and great music. Whilst resident DJs play live sets, guests can dine from the snack menu or the full à la carte, as well as a new cocktail menu inspired by Japanese tastes and traditions. By early evening, the space transforms as the music is turned up and guests get on their feet to dance and socialise.

Sumosan Twiga will unveil its new look in September 2023 alongside a revitalised programme of guest DJs, live music and special events.

About Sumosan Twiga

Sumosan Twiga opened in November 2016 on Sloane Street in Knightsbridge, a unique partnership between the Sumosan and Twiga brands, offering side-by-side Japanese and Italian dining. The hotspot is renowned for its sophisticated social scene and regular appearances from guest DJs and live entertainment. Sumosan Twiga will undergo a dramatic transformation this summer, unveiling its new look interiors in September 2023.

About Sumosan

Sumosan is a restaurant group founded by Alexander Wolkow and his daughter, Janina, who opened their first sushi bar in Moscow in 1997. Having popularised Japanese cuisine in the region, Sumosan has since opened restaurants all over the world, including Courchevel, Berlin, Crete, Dubai, Doha and Riyadh.

About Twiga

Twiga was founded by Italian entrepreneur and F1 legend Flavio Briatore, who channelled his love for Africa into creating a new hospitality concept that reflected the charm of the Kenyan city of Malindi. The first Twiga opened in Forte dei Marmi, Italy, in 1998, and the group now operates four venues, in Forte dei Marmi, Monte Carlo, London and Doha. Twiga is part of Majestas, which includes Billionaire, Crazy Pizza, Cova Montecarlo and Cipriani Montecarlo.

Categories
Food London News Restaurant Reviews

Punjabi Baithak: Punjabi Tapas Culinary Gem in Central London

Covent Garden in London which is known for its vibrant culture and diverse dining experiences, has welcomed a new addition to its culinary landscape. The Punjabi Baithak, opened its doors on Friday, September 1st, 2023, offering a unique fusion of Punjabi flavours, tapas-style dining, and a charming atmosphere that celebrates Punjabi culture. An exclusive feature by FnB columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International

Opened by long time well-known local, Amrit Mann, Punjabi Baithak is a groundbreaking concept that transforms from a Punjabi Cafe during the day to a lively Punjabi Tapas bar in the evening. It is the very first of its kind in London. The restaurant aims to provide a delightful Punjabi gastronomic journey to its patrons, offering an array of delectable dishes for vegetarians and vegans as well as those who love their non-veg!

During the day, guests can also savour the essence of Punjabi brunch homemade parathas, tandoori wraps, set plates of Punjab Covent Garden favourites with naans, rotis or rice and a steaming mug of Desi Chai, along with cuisine with tapas-style treats such as Punjabi Masala Chips, Chilli Paneer, Mixed Grill. The daytime menu offers a perfect dining solution for theatre-goers, shoppers and working individuals wanting a quick lunch in or to takeaway.

In the evening, the atmosphere at Punjabi Baithak transforms into a vibrant bar grill setting where guests can unwind and revel in the lively ambiance. The drinks menu boasts an enticing selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages including Punjabi specialties like Shikanjavi (a refreshing Punjabi lemonade), and the intriguing Laced Mango Lassi (it’s laced with rum!).  Special beverages have been sourced from the Subcontinent which went through a blind tasting selection process – they’re worth a try!  It’s the ideal place for a relaxed evening friends for a feast of options with sharing plates, sizzlers, and the opportunity to savour Punjab Covent Garden’s signature dishes.

Punjabi Baithak pays homage to the rich tradition of Punjabi hospitality. The term “Baithak” literally translates to “a place to sit,” and in Havelis (large Punjabi homes), it’s where guests would relax, be entertained, and enjoy the company of others. Musical Baithaks were also common; Punjabi Baithak also has a Basement Baithak – a space where The Beatles dined back in the 1960s!  The space still pays homage to them but is now a flexible private hire space, great for small parties, meetings, rehearsals, and small events at very reasonable rates!

This exciting addition to Covent Garden’s culinary scene comes 72 years after Gurbachan Singh Maan opened the iconic Punjab Covent Garden restaurant at 80 Neal Street, which his grandson Sital Singh Maan expended sideways, backwards and upwards. Now Amrit Maan, his great-grandson, has continued the family legacy with the opening of Punjabi Baithak next door at 190 Shaftesbury Avenue.  

It keeps the essence of the Punjab Covent Garden with its dark walls, family images and continues to celebrate Punjabi and British Asian iconic moments too, but with a focus on popular culture and more recent historic (pre-Y2K).  The more casual, lighter atmosphere is helped with the hard floor, high ceiling and neon lighting, and look out for the popular Punjabi sayings on the walls too. The two restaurants complement each other well.

Baithak literally translates as a “place to sit”.  The Baithak would often be a room in a Punjabi residence, like a haveli, where guests would relax and be entertained as they were wined and dined. The service at this restaurant is outstanding; attentive and helpful. The vibe is upbeat and relaxed. Decor items reminiscent of Punjabi heritage transports one back to a golden era gone by. The delectable menu offerings are splendid and evoke nostalgia of the subcontinent and especially Punjab. The food presentation is charming, flavours on point and portion sizes are generous. Very Highly Recommended! 

Amrit S Maan OBE
Punjabi Bhaitak Food- Chef Dheeraj
Categories
Food Lite Blogs Restaurant Reviews

KOKUM – Modern Indian Dining in Dulwich, London

A meal experience at Kokum is simply extraordinary with service that is impressive, attentive and the vibe of the restaurant is luxe; decor is resplendent; dishes are plated and presented with aplomb while portion sizes are also generous. The flavours of the food and menu choices are amazing. An exclusive feature by FnB columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

Kokum restaurant is the vision of Sanjay Gour and Simeron Lily Patel – the co-founders of the Michelin-rated and critically acclaimed Indian restaurants, Dastaan and Black Salt Sheen.

Leading the kitchen is the acclaimed and incredibly talented chef, Manmeet Singh Bali. He has worked at the highest levels in Indian cuisine settings as well as European and British cuisines. From The Head Chef of the famous Turnberry hotel in Scotland and the Ritz Carlton in Dubai to 11 years as Michelin starred Vineet Bhatia’s right hand man, Chef Bali now Executive Head Chef here at Kokum is highly reputed in the culinary circles.

Before co-founding his own restaurants, Dastaan & Black Salt – Sanjay had a very storied career in Dubai and London. He worked with Angela Hartnett in Dubai and she brought him to London to work in Murano. He was an executive pastry chef in many famous restaurants and hotels and then he tried his hand at Indian cuisine. Soon after, he was head chef in some of the best in London including the legendary Gymkhana. This was his final role before he left in 2017 to open the much-loved Dastaan and then in 2021 teamed with Simeron to open Black Salt Sheen.

Simeron’s passion for restaurants began at a very young age. At around the age of 6, she would construct fantasy restaurants using gym mats, cushions etc at home. Her toy ironing board served as the reception desk, and she would demand outrageous prices for a glass of orange juice!

Despite havIng multiple dietary restrictions personally, she developed a passion for food and restaurants from being exposed to this through her father who had a similar passion from a very young age and has always been involved in food and restaurants.

Chef Bali has developed a unique cooking style that combines classic Indian flavours with contemporary influences. At KOKUM, Chef Bali’s dedication to quality and creativity is evident in every dish he presents to discerning diners. He surely has created a menu with the bold flavours of quintessential traditional Indian cuisine but certainly with a modern new-age twist and unique ingredients. Highly Recommended!

Categories
Food Lite Blogs Restaurant Reviews

Gorgeous Grazing Platters, Charming Charcuterie boards and more: Cheesesareus by Himani Chawla

Cheesesareus pronounced “cheeses are us” has piqued public interest and taken discerning foodies and social media by the storm since it’s inception a few years ago. An exclusive feature on the Delhi based entrepreneur extraordinaire Himani Chawla’s cheesy treats filled venture journey, by FnB columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

“Cheese as a food option is considered to be unhealthy, calorific and sinful, at least this is what I grew up believing.” chuckled brand owner Himani Chawla.

During her extensive travels across the globe over the years her indulgence took flight to embrace joys of tasting cheese and she developed favourites having enjoyed so many of them. Over 1800 varieties of cheese are produced all over the world. Himani started to study the processes of cheesemaking she said and “the more I learnt the more it fascinated me”, she said .

“Cheesesareus is based on the fact that non processed cheeses are infact great for many who consume these as studies show that consuming these kinds of cheeses is not only beneficial for bone health but also are a rich source of protein, vitamins A, B12, D and so on . Thus, my quest to change people’s perception around me, of the same started. I proudly started my venture with the highlight of showcasing a guilt-free cheeseboard experience.” shared Chawla.

Cheesesareus today are the capital’s market leaders in curating bespoke cheese and charcuterie boards as their specialty is that they keep in mind the Indian palate and thereby introduce relevant textured formaggi to clients. Safe to say the arty boards trend they pioneer in has caught on like wild fire at soirées and has become quite the new-age culinary rage.

The usp of the boards also is that they are said to be evocative and interactive where everyone puts together a bit of everything from the board and make their perfect lil cheese canapé for themselves based on choices for example some may like a cracker with a bit of Brie along with some caramelised onion jam and a piece of salami which a great combination of sweet and savoury or maybe a cracker with some funky blue cheese with a touch of honey to balance the strong smell of the cheese and then may also add the crunch from some walnuts which pairs well. The board has so much to experiment with, it’s like a board game where each bite is a win!

If you are also like Himani who love the idea of home get togethers with the only drawback being that you are not able to fully enjoy the company of your guests because you are always so busy playing host then Cheesesareus can come to your rescue! To them the concept of grazing tables is intrinsically appealing and the first trial was at this biz wiz’s own party at her home which turned out to be a huge success  with the cheese and charcuterie board naturally attracting the spotlight, almost becoming a conversation piece while also being one of a kind way to feed a crowd in a relaxed way.

To further talk about the brand, their Grazing tables too are very popular in Delhi & NCR. It’s a very stylish yet informal way to present a variety of finger foods like wraps, fresh fruits & veggies with decadent emulsions and flavourful dips, myriad cheeses, healthy nuts the list can be endless.

While planning a grazing table is a challenge that Cheesesareus enjoy as for them as a brand the thrill of it all coming together is like a piece of art and each of their tables is a unique creation. The practical part with finger foods is that you use no plates and cutlery so minimum effort for the post party clear up too. Hence they say a win win for all!

A peak into a sample grazing menu by cheesesareus:

*Quattro formaggi truffle Vol Au vents; a signature mushroom sauce with a special four cheese blend (Swiss gruyere, truffled Gouda, cream cheese and Parmeggiano reggiano, filled in French puff pastry wells and finished with white truffle oil.

*Mediterranean feta savoury muffins; a delish Blend of mature cheddar and feta, olives , zucchini, and all flavours of the Mediterranean.

*Japanese Tomago Sandos ; Japanese egg salad sandwiches – egg salad with Japanese mayo sanwitched between melt in the mouth buns. Don’t tell us we didn’t warn you that they can be addictive!

*signature cream cheese & cracker board – whipped cream cheese and mascarpone with cranberry & pistachio gravel with mandarin zest – perfect with a Pinot griggio or a glass of chilled Prosecco .

*Chicken cigar rolls;  Asian flavours but they have kept this cheesy. chicken wrapped in spring roll pastry, with a spicy gochujang cheese dipping sauce, simply outstanding!

Cheesesareus is a remarkable concept-foods brand solution for all your culinary and soirée hosting needs; great taste, impressive options, amazing style, attentive customer service, remarkable presentation, stylish packaging and spot-on flavours… what’s not to love! Give them a try and thank us later! Highly Recommended!

ALSO READ: The Falcon at Hatton: Staycation in Style in Warwickshire

Categories
Food London News Restaurant Reviews

The Falcon at Hatton: Staycation in Style in Warwickshire

The Falcon at Hatton is the perfect one stop destination for having a drink in the pub, enjoying some delish classic English grub including a Sunday roast with all the traditional trimmings, enjoying a special celebration meal in the Dome, trying exquisite Indian food or best of all-a comfortable staycation option where joys of all of the above can be sampled to have a relaxing time in this picturesque location. An exclusive feature by lifestyle columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

Award winning and highly acclaimed Chef Krishnapal Negi’s signature style, authentic Indian cuisine resplendent menu at Krishna’s restaurant in The Falcon at Hatton, is evocative of time tested recipes that he himself loved as a child growing up in the region of India’s majestic Himalayas.

Unique yet familiar dishes on the menu are a joy to try, the anecdotal menu focuses on a plethora of dishes which are vibrant with authentic flavours, aromatic with precisely balanced spices and herbs, Krishna’s menu is an introduction to authentic Indian cuisine, all served in style which is too tempting to resist and there is something for everyone including plenty of vegetarian options. The delectable food portions are generous too. The dishes and food taste transports one to a culinary journey of the senses and to the subcontinent. 

Chef Negi first made his name when he launched Tangawizi in Richmond Upon Thames in 2004. Recognised at the time as ground-breaking for its innovative menus it became a regular haunt for likes of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. From Tangawizi, where Negi achieved a Michelin award, he went on to work under Michelin-starred Vineet Bhatia who spotted Negi’s raw talent and harnessed it. 

Until early 2022 Negi was executive chef at acclaimed London Fitzrovia restaurant ‘1947 London’ where he found full expression for his unique style eventually hailed as one of the capital’s foremost chefs by leading food critics across the UK. Stepping away from London for his next challenge, Krishna decided to explore the countryside and pursue the concept of having authentic Indian cuisine along side traditional pub classics, all under one roof. Starting with The Marquess of Exeter, The Falcon at Hatton is the newest venue to join this exciting dining concept which his flagship banner of Krishna’s at the heart of The Falcon and Hatton which has taken authentic Indian cuisine to the English countryside.

They also serve limited edition Specials of the Month. A selection of incredible dishes are available for a limited time every month and regulars and new guests have been enjoying these are word of mouth praise on how the dishes are an explosion of flavours, has been in plenty in the hood. The dishes are delightfully presented, served hot at the table by friendly staff who showcase outstanding and exemplary service which makes for an extraordinary dining experience. 

You can also envoy Traditional English classics and a traditional English Roast for those looking for the quintessential English pub meal experience. The drinks variety served here is exhilarating too.

Then there is also an option to treat yourself in their Dome Dining option. Blurring the lines between indoors and out, restaurant and al fresco dining. Whether it’s a romantic date, an anniversary celebration or a night out with friends, The Falcon at Hatton offers an exclusive outdoor dining experience. 

Discerning guests looking for a private dining experience under the stars, can book one of their 360 degree crystal clear domes where helpful staff will be at your service and with heating and cooling available these domes offer a comfortable environment irrespective of the weather. The domes are located on their beautiful elevated outdoor patio with palm trees. The subtle ambient lighting creates a unique experience after dark and you can make it even more distinctive by bringing your own music with you!

The Falcon at Hatton has six double and two twin en-suite rooms on offer all with delish breakfast included. All of their rooms are pet friendly. Their accommodation is situated in a separate building right next to the pub on the concourse with parking available right outside rooms, perfect for a short stay whether it’s for business or pleasure. At The Falcon at Hatton you can enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner at your pace and at leisure.

The Falcon at Hatton is perfectly positioned to enjoy the best of Warwickshire also explore Royal Leamington Spa with its regency architecture, Stratford-upon-Avon and the many attractions of Shakespeare and his birthplace through to the wooden Tudor buildings in the town.

Great food, Great service, Great rooms, Great vibe… and more at the Falcon at Hatton awaits for your next staycation. Highly Recommended!

Categories
Food London News Restaurant Reviews

Marquess of Exeter: One stop destination for Krishna’s Indian Restaurant, an English pub and a Historic Inn

Set in the picturesque village of Lyddington, The Marquess of Exeter is your go to Staycation option if looking for a charming country pub, a modern Indian restaurant by well known Chef Krishnapal Negi and 17 charming rooms all at once. An exclusive feature by lifestyle columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

They also have a beautiful meadow for al fresco drinks and dining. Their green meadow boasts of glorious views over the rolling Rutland countryside. It’s the perfect place to grab a delicious al fresco meal, or swing by for a convivial drink at sun set to watch the stars set the night sky on fire.

Built in the red limestone that characterises the whole village, on the inside The Marquess is resplendent with history and character. It is believed that there may have been a tavern on this very site since parish records began in 1563.

Guests visiting or staying here can choose from two dining options: The Bar at The Marquess for carefully-crafted classic pub fare, ales and wines or Krishna’s, a delectable new modern Indian restaurant by award-winning London chef, Krishnapal Negi.

Under new ownership since spring 2022, The Marquess welcomes one and all for new experiences in the heart of Rutland, including some decadent, authentic yet contemporary Indian cuisine in the foodiest county in the country.

Chef Krishnapal Negi’s competitively-priced Indian cuisine menu is drawn from recipes that he himself loved as a child growing up in the Indian majestic Himalayas.

Succinct and easy to navigate, the exquisite menu focuses on a variety of dishes which are vibrant with authentic flavours, aromatic with precisely balanced spices and herbs, Krishna’s menu is an introduction to authentic Indian cuisine, all served in style which is too tempting to resist and there is something for everyone including plenty of vegetarian options. The food portions are generous. The dishes and food taste is evocative of the subcontinent and transports one to a culinary journey of the senses.

Chef Negi first made his name when he launched Tangawizi in Richmond Upon Thames in 2004. Recognised at the time as ground-breaking for its innovative menus it became a regular haunt for Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, and it was from here that George Clooney was famously turned away for lack of an available table.

From Tangawizi, where Negi achieved a Michelin award, he went on to work under Michelin-starred Vineet Bhatia who spotted Negi’s raw talent and harnessed it. Until early 2022 Negi was executive chef at acclaimed London Fitzrovia restaurant ‘1947 London’ where he found full expression for his unique style eventually hailed as one of the capital’s foremost chefs by leading food critics across the UK. Since the summer of 2022, he is delighted to welcome discerning diners to Krishna’s at The Marquess.

The food here is of a great quality and they use local products foods. Dishes are cooked to a high standard and for those of you here for a relaxing staycation, the breakfast gets the morning to a great start with hearty options served at the table. They also serve an outstanding Sunday roast.

The staff at Marquess of Exeter are attentive, friendly, accommodating and go that extra mile to ensure every guest’s visit here is memorable in every way. Safe to say that Spectacular service is something guests agree upon here.

The rooms are spacious, cosy, well decorated, with luxe linen and with shower amenities provided too. From check in to check out they provide a seamless experience, an inclusive vibe, a relaxed and warm environment. This property also offers pet-friendly amenities, such as food and water bowls. Other facilities include Free WiFi; Free self-parking.

Set in Leicestershire countryside, The Marquess of Exeter is a historic country inn with a traditional restaurant and emblematic of Indian food, hospitality and British Indian entrepreneurship at its best in UK.

ALSO READ: Nomad Bros: A must-visit restaurant for traditional Turkish clay pot experience in London

Categories
Lite Blogs London News Restaurant Reviews

Nomad Bros: A must-visit restaurant for traditional Turkish clay pot experience in London

Nomad Bros is a traditional Turkish restaurant serving authentic dishes with a modern and contemporary twist in North London. An exclusive feature by FnB columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

Nomad brothers is owned by restauranteur Apo and Ibo Kalkan, after a massive success or their london pop up they have opened their first restaurant in the UK. The brothers both grew up in Kas, a small Mediterranean old town in Turkey which is renowned for its rich culinary tradition and they have been in the restaurant industry for experience since they were young. They have owned several restaurants in the past including Pasha Café, The Ottoman House and the very popular Sultan Garden in Kas. Their cuisine is classic, authentic, Turkish and Mediterranean, using freshly sourced local ingredients but with authentic flavours of Turkey.

Nomad Brothers are really committed to welcoming one and all to their smartly done up restaurant in north London. Nice music, modern vibe, delicious cuisine, unique and creative chicken or lamb in earthen pots that is broken open at the table is certainly their piece de resistance! This also comes in a vegetarian option.

They have an extensive drinks menu, elaborate and exhaustive Turkish menu with all the staples and also some Mediterranean features on the menu. The salads, pickles, dips are aromatic and flavourful. The bulgur they serve as an accompaniment is larger pearls to the usual ones one gets in restaurants and is exceptionally good also bread is home made too.

The service in the restaurant is attentive and friendly. The food presentation is fantastic. A meal in this restaurant tastes fresh, light, fragrant, delish and the dishes sure are delightfully delectable. The have many vegetarian and vegan options too.

Overall a relaxed meal experience awaits for discerning diners at prices that are reasonable too and portion sizes generous. The owner-chef run restaurant has superlative cuisine where the food authenticity marries with a new age twist rather seamlessly. This brothers in arms restaurant is a gem of a jaunt serving great food especially their traditional clay pot dishes which are both a visual and culinary delight. Highly Recommended!

ALSO READ: London’s lesser-known unique and amazing flavours of Uyghur cuisine: Dilara Restaurant