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Community London News UK News

Homage to Mysore Vasudevachar

The event was inaugurated with Lighting of the lamp by Ms.Jayashree Varadarajan  and  had a medley of songs/dances on  Vasudevachar’s compositions, interspersed with  informative pieces about his life’s journey narrated by the anchor Mahathi Srinath

An event of Classical music was organised by KBC Arts at the Auditorium of Mahalakshmi temple, London, to celebrate the life and works of Padma Bhushan Mysore Vasudevachar (1865-1961), the 20th century musician/composer who wrote about 200 compositions mostly in Telugu and Sanskrit. Most of his compositions were in praise of Lord Rama.

This is the 15th event by KBC Arts which holds musical events with a focus on a specific poet/Composer (The previous being Homages to Annamacharya, Ramdasa, M.S.Subbulakshmi, Balamuralikrishna, Narayana Theertha, Purandaradasa, Papanasam Sivan, Swati Tirunal, Oothukadu Kavi, Subramania Bharati, Meerabai, Balajim Bhaje Hum, Tulsidas/Ramdas/Surdas and Muthiah Bhagavatar).

The event was inaugurated with Lighting of the lamp by Ms.Jayashree Varadarajan  and  had a medley of songs/dances on  Vasudevachar’s compositions, interspersed with  informative pieces about his life’s journey narrated by the anchor Mahathi Srinath.

In all 15 items were presented by 50 artistes. Captivating dances were performed by Devananda Bibiraj, Ananya Sriram  and Students of Liya  Earath, Jeyaverni Jaganathan (PonSita School of Dance), Shruti Sriram (SanskritiUK).

The mellifluous performances of Dhriti, Mahathi Srinath, Asritha Devarakonda, Shruti Sriram, Divya Kasturi were mesmerising. The performances of Ainkaran Sivaaji on the Violin and Pramod Rudrapatna Prasanna Kumar on the Veena had the audience spell-bound.

The performers were accompanied on the Mridangam by a well-known professional Vijeyerajah Mylvaganam.

The successful  program was  enjoyed by a packed house of audience appreciative of the focussed efforts  by the artistes and organisers.

Mrs Geetha Kaza, who conceptualised the event, thanked the performers, the team members and the audience.  Photographs and videos were by Councillor Aaditya Kaza (Kaza Clicks).

EVENT: Homage to Mysore Vasudevachar in London
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Bollywood Celebrity London News

India’s top women’s college LSR’s London based alumni in conversation with actor Taha Shah Badussha

Lady Shri Ram College, a premier women’s educational institution in India has alumni worldwide and the network has alumni groups dotted around the globe. London chapter of the alumni body called ELSA-UK is a vibrant group of about 300 alumni based in and around London. The network has done about fifty networking fireside chats in the last decade with movers and shakers from different fields to seek inspiration, facilitate networking at these thought leadership sessions and celebrate aspirations also achievements of the speakers invited who the group feels they can learn from. The alumni body overall has tens of thousands of members worldwide.

In July 2024 some of the ELSA-UK group members had the opportunity to hear an inspirational journey of breaking through barriers from Taha Shah Badussha who’s done this to forge a a game-changing acting trajectory for himself. This coffee chat style chat with Taha was absolutely incredible to say the least, to hear his tale of grit, determination, never give up spirit, discipline, hope, positivity, perseverance, his go-getter attitude left each and everyone moved and motivated! 

Taha Shah Badussha is a versatile talent in the Indian entertainment scene, renowned for his impactful performances on both big screens and digital platforms. He gained prominence with his breakout role in the 2011 film “Luv KaThe End,” followed by notable appearances in hits like “Gippi” (2013), “Barkhaa” (2015), “Baar Baar Dekho” (2016), and “Ranchi Diaries” (2017). 

Transitioning seamlessly to digital, he starred in the acclaimed web series “Taj: Divided by Blood” on Zee5 in 2022, further solidifying his stature as a compelling actor across various mediums. He also appeared in the US project “Draupadi Unleashed,” which received critical acclaim.

Badussha’s portrayal of Tajdar in the highly acclaimed Netflix series “Heeramandi” marked a significant turning point in his career, earning him widespread acclaim and making him a national crush and sensation. As the biggest ever web series made in India on any OTT platform, this role gave him the recognition he truly deserves as an artist. 

ELSA UK fireside with Taha was truly remarkable they felt, offering a glimpse into the mind of a strategic, hardworking, driven actor. Taha shared his journey with humility and candor, recounting the challenges he faced, how he surmounted these with support of his mother and all the internal resources he sought to create a successful career for himself. His insights on resilience, adaptability, and the importance of staying true to one’s values resonated deeply with the group. Taha’s humbleness, friendliness, optimism left a lasting impression, motivating everyone to strive for excellence and make a meaningful impact in their own endeavors.

With “Heeramandi” Taha has got global recognition and fan following. With this Taha has proven his mettle and is set for future big collaborations, promising more remarkable performances that will captivate audiences.

ALSO READ: Indian Film Festival of Melbourne 2024 Reveals Star-Studded Nominees

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Food London News

Lucky Cat by Gordon Ramsay: Decadence and Culinary Excellence

Lucky Cat is inspired by the 1930s Tokyo’s kissas and Shanghai’s drinking dens, experiential dining, inventive cocktails, and a thriving entertainment roster are cornerstones of the dining experience. Opened in 2019, Lucky Cat was inspired by Gordon’s travels through different Asian countries including Thailand, Vietnam, Japan and China. Lucky Cat’s menu is exceptional; a culinary journey exploring different Asian cuisines in thoughtful fashion. A feature by FnB columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

The drinks menu at Lucky Cat features their own curated cocktail range, with the signature Lucky Negroni requiring our guests to roll the dice to determine their bespoke drink, amongst beloved classics featuring an Asian flavour twist. The wine and sake offering is equally extensive and immersive.

Discerning diners will marvel at the food menu which is a smart exploration of different Asian cuisines. From sashimi and sushi delivered from the raw bar to Lucky Cat’s signature black cod, ‘GFC’ (Gordon Fried Chicken), short rib and BAO. Guests will appreciate the elevated dishes cooked with only the finest ingredients. The menu’s journey through Asian means variety is key and diners can indulge in Lucky Cat every day of the week.

While desserts may not be commonplace at other Asian restaurants, this is one of Lucky Cat’s specialties. The dedicated all female pastry team in Mayfair carefully weave flavours of rose, lychee and yuzu through beautiful dishes that ensure dessert is a must-order.

Executive chef André Camilo proudly reflects that Lucky Cat is different to similar venues in Mayfair because they equally prioritise the food and the experience. Every detail across both facets are meticulously planned. “No one is doing what we’re doing. They’re not offering the variety and calibre of what our menu does, the expertly crafted cocktails or the ambiance that keeps people here all night. We are proud of our guest experience, and what we’re doing to continue Gordon’s vision when the team first created Lucky Cat,” Camilo said.

The team create new dishes every few months or, perhaps, revisit and refine some previous Lucky Cat favourites. Certain dishes, however, always appear on the menu, due to customer demand. These include GFC, the Bonito Fried Duck Leg Bao, the Hand-Dived Scallops with Yuzu, and the exquisitely simple, classic Yellowtail sashimi. Gordon’s vision of only offering the best at every touchpoint is evident with all the suppliers Lucky Cat has strong relationships with.

For those looking to for a more immersive dining experience, their semi-private options are an exceptional choice. The Chef’s Table seats 10 and is paired with a bespoke menu completely tailored to our guests tastes, while the Kitchen Table offers two menus that elevate the signature offering. There are also three stunning private dining rooms that capture the personality of the main restaurant.

The Lucky Cat team are committed to sharing their knowledge across exceptional food and beverage so offer a series of boutique masterclasses. From sake to sushi, desserts to cocktails, learn from the best in one of London’s premier restaurants as you expand your expertise and learn some of the secrets behind Lucky Cat’s specialties.

At Lucky Cat in London Mayfair the service is top-notch and ambiance is unparalleled, where the meal experience is both exceptional and experiential; is inspired by Gordon Ramsay’s extensive travels throughout Asia and his vision to bring together the best cuisines of the region with inventive cocktails and ambiance. Highly Recommended! Lucky Cat Manchester opened in June 2023 and Miami recently opened their doors in February 2024.

Categories
India News London News UK News

SBI UK Celebrates 50th Anniversary of Southall Branch

The celebration saw key figures from SBI UK and the local community come together to commemorate the occasion.

The State Bank of India (UK) Limited (SBI UK) celebrated the
50th anniversary of its Southall branch in a grand ceremony held at the branch premises. The event was graced by the presence of customers, VIP
guests, and dedicated SBI UK staff, marking a significant milestone in the bank’s history of serving the Southall community.

The celebration saw key figures from SBI UK and the local community come together to commemorate the occasion. Mr Sudhir Sharma, Chief Executive Officer, SBI UK, expressed his heartfelt gratitude towards the customers and staff who have been integral to the branch’s success.

On the occasion , Sharma said “This 50-year journey is a testament to the enduring trust and support we have received from our esteemed customers and the relentless dedicat of our staff. As we celebrate this golden jubilee, we reaffirm our commitment to providing innovative banking solutions and unparalleled service to our customers. Our goal is to continue building on this solid foundation and to remain a trusted partner in the community’s future successes.’’

Ms. Sakuntala Sanyal, Executive Director & Deputy CEO, SBI UK, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the bank’s strategic vision and community-centric approach. She said, “The Southall branch’s half-century legacy reflects our unwavering commitment to catering to the financial needs of the Southall community. We are immensely proud of this achievement and eagerly anticipate many more years of successful partnerships and growth.”

The event was further honoured by the presence of Mr Virendra Sharma,
Former Labour MP for Ealing Southall, who has had a long-standing relationship with SBI UK. Sharma praised the bank for its exemplary service and unwavering commitment to the Southall community.

He added, “I have witnessed first hand the positive impact that SBI UK has had on our community over the years. Their dedication to providing reliable and accessible banking services has been invaluable, and I appreciate their ongoing commitment to Southall. SBI UK’s presence has been a cornerstone of stability and support for countless individuals and businesses.”

The 50th anniversary celebration was not only a moment to reflect on the past but also an opportunity to look forward to a promising future. With a renewed commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction,

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-Top News London News UK News

Tory leadership contenders argue in public

Bob Blackman, the MP for Harrow East, has taken on a pivotal role in shaping his party’s forthcoming leadership contest after being elected as chair of the 1922 Committee of backbench MPs…reports Asian Lite News

Two of the contenders to become the next Conservative Party leader have started to bicker in public over leaks to a newspaper, which claimed one had accused the other of having a “very public” nervous breakdown.

The Times published the story on Tuesday, saying the remark had been made by shadow housing secretary Kemi Badenoch about ex-home secretary Suella Braverman during a shadow cabinet meeting.

The article also said Badenoch had hit out at former prime minister Rishi Sunak for calling an election without informing his cabinet, and blamed his decision to return from D-Day commemorations in France early for the loss of cabinet ministers last Thursday.

Posting on X a day later, Badenoch said it was a “shame” the discussions had been leaked, adding: “If there is no private space to discuss our party’s challenges, we will never fully address what the electorate told us last week.”

But this was followed by a tweet from her rival, Braverman, appearing to call her party colleague out. “I’d be interested in knowing whether Kemi thinks I’m having a ‘very public nervous breakdown’,” she wrote, adding the hashtags “#honesty #unity #wedontleak”.

While neither MP has publicly declared to be in the race to replace Sunak, both are widely thought to be throwing their hats in the ring. Braverman has been ramping up her public appearances in recent days, making a number of controversial comments around LGBT+ issues, as well as giving her own analysis of the Conservatives’ disastrous performance in the general election that saw them lose power to Labour and fall to 121 seats.

suella braverman

Shadow home secretary James Cleverly – who is also rumoured to be considering a run for leader – made a plea in The Times on Wednesday morning for the contest not to descend into “bitter in-fighting and finger-pointing”, saying while the party needs a “sensible post-mortem”, it should move on to make a “broad” offer to the electorate.

Meanwhile, Bob Blackman, the MP for Harrow East, has taken on a pivotal role in shaping his party’s forthcoming leadership contest after being elected as chair of the 1922 Committee of backbench MPs.

His election has already caused the first ripples of what could be a new Tory civil war when some MPs turned up to be told that voting had finished earlier than they had expected, but those tensions are only a foretaste of the kinds of issues that could come across the desk of the 68-year-old in coming weeks.

An avid reader of crime and mystery novels, Blackman has kept his cards scrupulously close to his chest about his views on who he believes is best placed to succeed Sunak, although his hard-right credentials are well known.

As for how the leadership contest could unfold and whether there might be a change of the rules, Blackman told TalkTV on Tuesday: “That is up for complete discussion.”

But he was clear that he believed the party shouldn’t rush its decision, and the scale of the defeat that had just been inflicted on his party had given Labour a majority that meant “they can almost do what they want to do”.

One of the few Tories to have increased their majorities last week, Blackman was first elected to parliament in 2010, having previously been a member of the London Assembly and deputy leader of Brent council. Before politics, he worked for British Telecom in sales and management positions before becoming a sales tutor at the BT Training College.

ALSO READ-Starmer’s Victory Draws Global Praise

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Asia News London News UK News

Vin Murria OBE Named Top Asian In UK Tech 2024

Tech titan Vin Murria OBE, founder of Advanced Computer Software plc, was named Top Asian in UK Tech 2024 by equality charity Diversity UK, publishers of the Top 100 Asian Stars in UK Tech list and the Asian Tech Pioneers index.

The Chair’s Award was presented by Lopa Patel MBE, Chair of the Judging Panel and Trustees of Diversity UK at the launch of the tenth anniversary edition of the list on Wednesday 3 July 2024.

Chair of the Judging Panel 2024, Lopa Patel MBE, said in her citation: “Vin Murria has had an outstanding career in the tech sector and is one of the original tech pioneers of this country. Armed with a first class BSc Honours degree in Computer Science, and an MBA, she has spent over a decade building her own tech company followed by twenty years of M&A activity in the software sector. She has smashed the glass ceiling for women in FTSE companies, the AIM market and within entrepreneurship. Vin has remained focused in her drive to create better-performing companies, driven by technological advancement, and she has truly mastered the art of deal-making. Her determination, razor-sharp intelligence and keen eye for an opportunity has brought her success and prosperity. We are delighted that she has engaged with the Asians in Tech initiative so enthusiastically over the years, always ready to offer help, support and advice to budding entrepreneurs. Away from work, she founded a charitable foundation, to help educate and support women in the UK and in India.

Vin Murria she is a role model for young women the world over and a truly inspirational Chair’s Award winner. Congratulations!”

ALSO READ: Brussels conference urges action against religious fundamentalism in South Asia

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Health London News UK News

Drs Singhal, and Kole bag top seats at international organisations

BAPIO Training Academy executive committee board members Prof Dr Parag Singhal and Prof Dr. Tamorish Kole bag top seats at international organisations, reports Rahul Laud

Herbalife, a health and wellness company and community, announced recently the appointment of Dr. Prof Parag Singhal, Chief Executive at the BAPIO Training Academy, a consultant physician, and endocrinologist to its global Nutrition Advisory Board, representing India.

Singhal is a consultant physician and endocrinologist currently practicing in the United Kingdom at the Nuffield Health Taunton Hospital Waterside Suite and The Chesterfield Clinic, Nuffield Health Bristol Hospital. As a Herbalife Nutrition Advisory Board Member, he will support the company’s nutrition advisory, training, and education of associates, and provide advanced diet and nutrition insights to Herbalife’s sponsored athletes and teams.

Singhal said, “I am honored to join Herbalife as part of the Nutrition Advisory Board. With my metabolic medicine expertise and strong ties to the Indian healthcare community over the years, I am excited to contribute to Herbalife’s mission of promoting health and wellness through high-quality nutrition. I am looking forward to developing innovative nutritional solutions that cater to the unique needs of the Indian population, ensuring that we positively impact the health and well-being of our community.”

Ajay Khanna, Managing Director of Herbalife India said, “We are excited to welcome Dr. Parag Singhal to our Nutrition Advisory Board. As India emerges as a leading global market, our dedication to transforming lives through better health and wellness grows stronger. With Dr. Parag Singhal’s expertise, we are confident that Herbalife will continue to set new benchmarks in nutritional excellence.”

Prof (Dr) Tamorish Kole

Meanwhile in another development, Dr Tamorish Kole, Executive Committee Member at BAPIO Training Academy who serves as a Visiting Professor at the University of South Wales in the UK,  and currently working as a Chief Functionary and Board Member of the Heart and Stroke Foundation of India, a subsidiary of American Heart Association (AHA) has assumed the role of Chair of the Clinical Practice Committee (CPC) of the International Federation for Emergency Medicine (IFEM), during the ICEM 2024 conference in Taipei.

The CPC comprises 13 Special Interest Groups, each dedicated to their respective areas of expertise. Tamorish and his committee are devoted to enhancing the educational resources available to all healthcare professionals aspiring to advance their emergency care practices.

Prof Kole is the past President of the Asian Society for Emergency Medicine & immediate past Chair of the Disaster Medicine Special Interest Group of the International Federation for Emergency Medicine. Dr. Kole is also an alumnus of The International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP is the U.S. Department of State’s premier professional exchange program) for the year 2013 in Crisis and Disaster Management.

With the motto of inspiring excellence and innovating futures and a vision of training healthcare professionals to become clinicians and leaders to help deliver equitable and cost-effective care for the global sustainability of healthcare systems the BAPIO Training Academy (BTA) is keen on working with fellow international professionals to inspire them to be a leader and efficient clinicians. BTA aims to facilitate a two-way flow of knowledge and expertise between overseas colleagues and the UK talent pool. The vast talent pool of BTA trainers is naturally sensitive to the developmental needs of doctors from the Indian subcontinent.

ALSO READ: Rath Yatra in Manchester attracts large audiences

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Events London News UK News

Rath Yatra in Manchester attracts large audiences

On Sunday 7th of July, the North West Odisha Society organised the Rath Yatra (procession) festival joining the global occasion of worshipping Lord Jagannath … Rahul Laud reports

A vast sea of humanity converged at the Gita Bhavan Temple in Manchester to pay their tribute and offer reverence and prayers to Lord Jagannath. The traditional Rath Yatra that followed in-house temple ceremonies and cultural activity was a spectacle to the residents of Manchester. Nearly 500 devotees gathered to participate in the annual Ratha Yatra festival.  This year’s event, which drew participants from around the world, was marked by vibrant chants, mesmerizing cultural performances, and the distinguished presence of local Labour Party MP Afzal Khan.

The spectacular event was witnessed by devotees dressed in traditional attire singing and dancing to the rhythmic chants of “Hare Krishna” and “Jay Jagannath” as the beautifully decorated chariot made its way through the adjoining streets near the temple in Manchester. The air was filled with spirituality and joy, echoing the festival’s significance of bringing the deities closer to the community. Renowned artists from around the globe graced the event with their performances, adding a rich cultural tapestry to the festival. These performances were a blend of traditional dances, classical Odissi, and folk, music, and drama that captivated the audience and added a layer of depth to the celebration. Tanisha Das, a noted exponent of classical dance forms showcased her talent on the occasion. Rekha Senapati also regaled the audience with her spirited devotional dance. Hema Manjunath renowned Radio anchor at the Rangoli Radio. Radio anchor ably compered the cultural event. Reshma Mahapatra enthralled the audience with her melodious bhajan and to the surprise of many Dr Manohar Deshpande – a non-Odia singer also contributed with his mellifluous voice. Renowned Choir conductor of the Bharatiya Vrund Gaan Rakesh Joshi gave the requisite devotional touch with his medley of bhajans in different languages accompanied by Manisha Keshe and his other choir singers.

The presence of MP Afzal Khan was symbolic, His presence sent the message of cohesiveness,  unity, and diversity that Ratha Yatra celebrates. His participation underscored the importance of cultural and religious festivals in fostering community spirit and harmony.

This year’s Ratha Yatra made attendees excited and happy with the presence of spiritual and religious storyteller Devi Chitralekha who is currently on a UK tour to share her divine preachings. Her inspiring words and spiritual guidance added a profound depth to the event.

The organizing committee included dedicated efforts by a team that comprised Dr Siba Senapati, Rekha Senapati, Bishnu Das,   Jeeban Panigrahi, Sudhakar Sahoo, Bibek Babu, Reshma Mahapatra,  Surendra Nath Acharya,  Prabhat Singh ,  and the dynamic  Siba Ranjan Biswal.  These individuals worked tirelessly behind the scenes, preparing the chariot, coordinating the event logistics, and serving food to all attendees.

The local police force, the Gita Bhavan temple trustee, and several volunteers’ unwavering support made the event successful.

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Lite Blogs London News

Annual Wimbledon Event at Taj London

The evening featured an inspiring talk by tennis legend and former Indian champion, Padma Bhushan Leander Paes. Paes shared his journey, challenges, and triumphs, celebrating not only his achievements but also the passion and dedication that tennis embodies…reports Asian Lite News

Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences and St. James’ Court, a Taj Hotel Announce Spectacular Wimbledon Party

Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences, and St James’ Court A Taj Hotel, hosted an extraordinary Wimbledon Party on 6th July, bringing tennis fever to the heart of London. In collaboration with the Bicester Collection and supported by the International Tennis Federation, the event was a grand tribute to the iconic tennis championship and the spirit of Tennis.

The hotels have a long-standing tradition of celebrating Wimbledon, and this year they elevated the experience with an exclusive courtyard party. The festivities began at 6 pm, transforming the courtyard into a tennis haven with sundowner cocktails and an alfresco dinner.

Guests enjoyed an array of canapés, including Coriander Yuzu Cream Burgers, Onion Cakes, Heirloom Tomato Fanciers, and Mini Shepherd’s Pies. A Caviar Station and a selection of English Cheeses and savouries added to the culinary extravaganza. Dessert offerings included Yoghurt, Strawberry and Rose Cake, classic Victoria Sponge cake, and Custard Panna Cotta with poached rhubarb and ginger crumble.

The special cocktail menu featured unique creations such as the Backhand Blend (Bourbon Whiskey, Pimm’s, and vanilla), Deuce Spruce (Limoncello, yuzu, and celery), and the quintessential British classic, Pimm’s No. 1.

The evening featured an inspiring talk by tennis legend and former Indian champion, Padma Bhushan Leander Paes. Paes shared his journey, challenges, and triumphs, celebrating not only his achievements but also the passion and dedication that tennis embodies. Leander Paes boasts an illustrious career spanning over three decades, with 18 Grand Slam titles in doubles and mixed doubles, a Wimbledon victory, a bronze medal from the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, and the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award. This year, he is being inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant contributions to the sport.

Miss Avari, Area Director UK & General Manager Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites & Residences and St. James’ Court London, A Taj Hotel said “The Taj has had the honour of hosting numerous Wimbledon champions over the years, and tonight is no exception. We are thrilled to welcome Leander Paes, a 2024 International Tennis Hall of Fame inductee and a Padma Bhushan awardee. Leander’s connection with the Taj is one we hold dear. This legacy of Leander Paes with the Taj is something we truly cherish.”

Tennis in Britain is more than just a sport; it is the essence of summer. Wimbledon brings people together, fills us with excitement, and showcases human athleticism and determination. Last night’s event celebrated this spirit and the shared love for the game.

ALSO READ-UBA: A Pan-Asian Culinary Paradise In London

Categories
Food London News Restaurant Reviews

UBA: A Pan-Asian Culinary Paradise In London

Be taken on a gastronomic journey through the bustling streets and aromatic alleys of Asia’s most vibrant cities, from Hong Kong and Hanoi, to Kyoto, Singapore and Bangkok at recently opened UBA in Shoreditch. From the team behind Sucre, Alma and CLAP London, UBA blends East London’s dynamic spirit with the flavours of South East Asia, providing fragrant sharing plates and innovative cocktails. Inspired by the rich heritage of Shoreditch, UBA is a celebration of authentic culture, where every dish and design detail tells a captivating story of craft. With their sophisticated ambiance and a commitment to inclusive luxury, UBA invites you to belong— to indulge, to connect, and to discover the art of contemporary Asian dining. A feature by columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

Inspired by the epicurean exploits of globetrotting Chef Paul Greening (Aqua Restaurant Group and Novikov), expect a menu which celebrates the vibrancy of South Asian cuisine. Featuring a plethora of Pan- Asian dishes, each plate is rooted in tradition, but with a theatrical twist from the freshest sashimi through to delicious dim sum, Hirata buns, ramen and smokey dishes from the robata grill.

Whilst the whole menu deserves to be discovered, highlights include super sweet corn with Tokyo butter and wasabi furikake, a chilled spinach salad and handmade soba tofu with a goma dressing; Larger plates from UBA’s robata grill include the baby chicken with barley ginger miso, crispy rice noodles, coriander and sesame; and yuzu shisho marinated lamb cutlets with a complex nashi pear tomato miso kimchi sauce.

Crafted to be consumed with childlike glee, UBA’s showstopping desserts include the lychee, jasmine and raspberry crème brulée with Calpis sorbet; and a vanilla tofu cheesecake, hidden beneath a fluffy cloud of Sakura floss.

The bar menu takes drinkers on a journey with libations that capture the essence of vibrant cityscapes, serene temple gardens, and bustling culinary scenes. Every sip promises a story, a connection to a faraway land, and a taste of authentic Asian culture. Must-tries from Head Bartender Alex Cernatu include the Jasmine Pearl with Roku gin, lemongrass and ginger cordial, jasmine pearl and peach soda, designed to whisk guests to the lush forests of Thailand; and transporting to Sichuan province tea plantation is the Smoky Dragon with Tarry Lapsang Souchong tea-infused tequila and Szechuan pepper infused agave.

A range of sakes from the Akashi-Tai family-run brewery,dating back to 1856, also feature alongside Japanese liqueurs and a carefully curated wine list.

Shoreditch’s new playful and decadent Pan Asian dining spot has also designed a lunch menu that’s set to make lunchtimes a whole lot livelier! With the Express Lunch, choose four flavour packed plates – either meat, fish or vegetarian options – and enjoy a noodle dish, salad, dim sum and a hot dish. Dishes across the meat, fish and vegetarian menu include highlights of Korean crispy chicken; rock shrimp tempura; spicy aubergine and spinach dim sum; and Tokyo corn with wasabi. Created by Head Chef Pavel Baranovs and a team of globetrotting chefs, the Express Lunch menu invites guests on gastronomic journey, inspired by the fantastic regions across Asia, at a great set price. With an elegant and experimental cocktail list to accompany, UBA is the perfect spot for a quick and tasty lunch.

Located within East London’s stylish Hart Shoreditch hotel, UBA’s opulent interiors are inspired by cultures and mythology across Asia. Painted in a palette of traditional and auspicious shades of red and gold, standout features include a statement marble bar offering counter dining for up to 14, red velvet banquette seating, lava stone tabletops with antique mirrors, Asian ceramics and decorative lighting. The restaurant also boasts a private dining room seating 12.

 UBA – an indulgent journey through the streets of Asia, where East meets East London.

Excellent service which is both helpful and attentive; delectable dishes, buzzing vibe, upbeat atmosphere, tantalising cuisine, palatable drinks, chic decor, plush interiors, charming presentation, with flavours on point makes it a journey through the streets of Asia in London and a memorable meal experience…Highly Recommended!

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