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‘365% spike in reports of Islamophobia since Oct 2023’

Many of the Islamophobic incidents have involved people being targeted over their support for Palestine as the war in Gaza continues…reports Asian Lite News

An enormous rise in Islamophobic incidents against the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas war has led many Muslims in the UK to fear leaving their homes after dark, The Independent reported.

Many of the Islamophobic incidents have involved people being targeted over their support for Palestine as the war in Gaza continues.

Muslims who spoke to The Independent said they had bricks thrown through their windows for displaying the Palestinian flag, and a 17-year-old was questioned by his teachers after he displayed a Palestinian badge on his bag at school.

Islamophobia Response Unit, a charity dedicated to supporting victims of Islamophobia, said there was a 365 percent increase in reports of Islamophobia in October 2023, following Hamas’ attack on Israel that month.

“Since October 2023, IRU has seen a sustained increase in reports to the unit,” said IRU CEO Majid Iqbal.

“It is clear that this is now developing into a long-term trend and is having a profound impact on those affected by it. IRU calls on the press and politicians to not demonize legitimate Palestinian activism and, by extension, British Muslims, to avoid feeding into the serious societal problem of Islamophobia,” he said.

Tell MAMA, another body that records anti-Muslim hate incidents, said there were 2,010 Islamophobic incidents between Oct. 7 and Feb. 7, more than triple the 600 reported during the same period the year before.

The figures were released in the same week that Tory MP Lee Anderson was suspended by the Conservative Party after making comments about London Mayor Sadiq Khan that have been widely condemned as Islamophobic.

Anderson told GB News on Friday that “Islamists” had “got control” of the mayor of London and the capital city.

“I don’t actually believe that the Islamists have got control of our country, but what I do believe is they’ve got control of Khan and they’ve got control of London … He’s actually given our capital city away to his mates,” the former Tory deputy chairman said.

Of the cases reported to IRU, a 17-year-old Londoner said he was interrogated by teachers about his faith and “his understanding of Hamas” after he put a Palestinian badge on his school bag.

The Year 13 student said he felt targeted because he was Muslim, which triggered an anxiety attack and led to exam failure.

“The numerous instances of being pulled out whilst studying to remove my badge made me feel like I was targeted because I was a Muslim, which made me feel like I was doing something wrong,” the boy said.

“This feeling of being targeted intensified following the intimidating interrogation, which I was subjected to,” he added. A 32-year-old doctor said he has been too scared to leave his home after an attack he believes stemmed from his support for Palestine.

He was awoken on Feb. 5 after a large rock smashed through a window at his Manchester home, which displayed a Palestinian flag. He said he was unable to sleep and took two weeks off work as a result of the incident.

“This event has been extremely traumatic and has had a significant impact on my well-being,” he told The Independent.

“I am not sleeping; I just pace around until 4 or 5 a.m. because I am too scared to sleep in the property. I no longer leave the house after sunset, as I am too frightened.

“I will soon be returning to work after two weeks off sick with stress, but I am very concerned about the impact this event will have on my professional performance as a doctor. I do not know how I can work with patients whilst I am this sleep-deprived,” he added.

ALSO READ-Rahul Gandhi granted bail in 2018 defamation case

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Food London News Restaurant Reviews

Vegan Culinary Delights: W Hotel London

With more and more people adopting vegan plant based diet and especially being dedicated to Veganism, W hotel showcased their Veganuary menu in style. Head Chef Rohan Almeida said that “ hotel has been getting very good feedback from diners after trying the vegan dishes we have had on our menu, it inspired me to celebrate the vegan month of January by curating a special three course vegan menu.” A feature by FnB columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

The menu consisted of a starter of spiced tofu marinated in gochujang seasoning served with coriander chilli pesto and coconut yogurt. This was a very light and smooth starter to get started with the meal experience.

For mains there was a choice of aubergine quinoa chickpea ragu which is one of their zero waste dish that was served with tempura courgette flower and a caper with tomato salsa- this dish was a balance of texture, colours and taste.

The other mains option they were serving was redefine meat burger, a burger which was plant base severed with avocado chilli, harissa slaw and sweet potato fries. It gave the feel of having a regular burger but with vegan goodness! 

Both the mains were very delicious and full of culinary finesse.

To finish off the vegan meal W hotel london menu had a showstopper dessert that looked like an apple but which they titled “not an apple”. This was a colourful, tasty and a very light dessert that can surely inspire many to turn vegan! It was a delicious apple crumble with the notes of coconut, cinnamon to add layers of flavour and depth to it .

The service was impeccable, the presentation impressive, portion sizes were generous and taste was outstanding! This vegan meal was surely an amazing one, and one to remember! 

About Head Chef Rohan Almeida 

Chef Rohan has over a decade of experience in the hotel industry. Originally from India, years ago he came to UK to pursue his dream; to further study culinary arts and hospitality management in a west London college after which he started his culinary journey in one of London’s leading five star hotels -Grosvenor House, A J W Marriott hotel at Park Lane. During his tenure at JW Marriott he got a chance to work with well known chefs like Nigel Boschetti, Robert Stephens, Paul Hallet, from whom he learned a lot he feels. Currently Chef Rohan is handling the role of Head Chef for W London. With a unique blend creative flair with a true passion for food, his engaging interpersonal skills, he has a strong record of streamlining kitchen operations and ensuring best food quality and service standards. He believes in maintaining traditional recipes though giving it innovative new-age presentation.

About W Hotel, London 

Located in Soho, every main attraction in central London orbits this luxe landmark hotel within walking distance. It’s a pedestrian’s paradise for shopping, food and entertainment. Everything from Leicester Square to Carnaby Street and Covent Garden is a love letter to your hedonistic heart. It has luxurious rooms and suites with a playful design and a touch of Cool Britannia.

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The King of Bhangra To Perform in London

The King of Bhangra + New Soundz at the Southbank Centre’s First South Asian Sounds Festival 7-10 March 2024…reports Asian Lite News

Over four days from the 7th to the 10th of March 2024, London’s Southbank Centre presents the inaugural South Asian Sounds festival: a diverse programme reflecting the wealth of talented South Asian musicians and artists. Artists from the South Asian diaspora have been carefully curated to present audiences with a stunning range of classical and contemporary music that reflects the diversity of the region and its people.

The South Asian Sounds festival has been developed in co-ordination with the UK’s leading South Asian booking agencies, including Bristol based and globally renowned Asian Arts Agency. Its special programme provides a snapshot of the diversity of South Asian music including the King of Bhangra, Malkit Singh, beatboxer and DJ, Jason Singh and avant garde jazz musician, Sarathy Korwar.

Jason Singh and Sarathy Korwar

Malkit Singh MBE Golden Star takes to the stage for South Asian Sounds’ Friday night’s premiere event at the Royal Festival Hall. From ‘Outstanding Achievement’ at the Brit Asia TV Music Awards to being honoured on Birmingham’s Walk of Stars, Malkit Singh’s is a performance and recording icon.

Vocal performances that shot Malkit Singh to extraordinary heights of international fame include the hit song from which Malkit takes his moniker ‘Kali Ainak’ (‘Golden Star’) and ‘Gur Nalo Ishq Mitha’ and ‘Tutak Tutak Toothiyan’. The latter song was penned by Veer Rahimpuri and became the fastest selling and most successful Bhangra single at the time. Malkit’s performances on ‘Chal Hun’ and ‘Jind Mahi featured on the movie soundtrack for ‘Bend It Like Beckham’. Malkit Singh MBE was listed by the Guinness Book of Records as the biggest selling bhangra solo artist of all time and is acknowledged internationally for taking Punjabi folk music onto a world stage. In 2008, Malkit Singh became the first Punjabi singer to be honoured with an MBE from Queen Elizabeth II.

New Soundz

The finale concert of South Asian Sounds takes place in the evening of Sunday March 10th in the Queen Elizabeth Hall and is actually a three-in-one innovative performance of contemporary music and sounds called New Soundz. This event is a follow on from Asian Arts Agency’s well received and attended New Soundz festival which took place in Bristol in November 2023.

The star musicians for this final performance are exceptionally talented artists who both strive to stretch musical borders and succeed effortlessly. They are sound artist extraordinaire, Jason Singh and genre-defying musician Sarathy Korwar, who will both perform solo shows and then come together for a collaborative show.

Dubbed the ‘human sampler’ by BBC Radio 6, Jason Singh’s solo section crafts immersive soundscapes drawn from nature’s diverse sounds and then a collaborative performance with award-winning Sarathy Korwar as the festival finale. Singh and Korwar explore a range of soundscapes, drawing inspiration from Indian classical ragas, jazz, ambient, avant-garde hip-hop, dub and the natural world.

“Asian Arts Agency has been promoting artists, curating events and developing new talent from across the globe for over fifteen years” comments Director Jaswinder Singh. “The Southbank Centre is known for innovation and cultural diversity and it is an honour to have our artists participating in the Southbank Centre’s inaugural South Asian Sounds festival this March. For the first festival edition, we are focusing on presenting some of the best of British Asian artists including crowd favourite, Malkit Singh and his high energy performance to the more ambient sounds style of Sarathy Korwar and the upbeat beats of Jason Singh, we are confident that our artists will provide something for everyone attending. Given our international and national work, collaborating with Southbank Centre is a significant step for our work and we’re excited to see how audiences will react.”

ALSO READ-Corporate Responsibility in Arts Promotion

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India-born Banker Eyes Greener London in 2024 Mayoral Bid

Calling ULEZ unfair, he said wealthy Londoners can easily afford the 12.50-pound daily charge for non-compliant vehicles, while those on lower incomes are deterred from using their cars…reports Asian Lite News

An India-born investment banker, standing as an independent in the 2024 London Mayoral election, has said that he comes from a country where toxic air is a big issue, and wants things to be “greener and more effective” in the British capital.

Tarun Ghulati told The Standard newspaper that he was entering the race, due to be held on May 2 this year, to “get London moving again” as the capital has “lot its mojo”.

“I certainly come from a country where toxic air is a big issue and I believe we should work towards making things greener and more effective,” Ghulati, who expects to be polling ahead of the Liberal Democrat and Green candidates within six weeks, told The Standard.

Having lived in London for more than 20 years, the 63-year-old said he wants to completely scrap the Ultra low emission zone (ULEZ), remove the congestion charge on weekends and abolish low traffic neighbourhoods.

According to Ghulati, hindrances to cars, such as road-blocks in low traffic neighbourhoods, were in fact contributing to pollution by causing vehicles to stand still and emit fumes.

Calling ULEZ unfair, he said wealthy Londoners can easily afford the 12.50-pound daily charge for non-compliant vehicles, while those on lower incomes are deterred from using their cars.

His other priorities include increasing police presence on the street and building more police stations in areas where there is a high crime rate.

The 2024 London mayoral election is scheduled to be held on May 2, and will take place simultaneously with elections to the London Assembly and local elections across England and Wales.

Sadiq Khan, who has been the Mayor of London since 2016, is seeking re-election as the Labour candidate.

A total of 12 candidates have reportedly declared that they will be running for the job, which includes Conservative Susan Hill, Liberal Democrat Rob Blackie, Reform UK’s Howard Cox, Green Party’s Zoe Garbett and Social Democratic Party’s Amy Gallagher.

While Mayoral elections are traditionally held every four years, voting was last held in 2021 instead of 2020 because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

It will be the first time the election will use the first-past-the-post system.

Mayoral elections are traditionally held every four years.

However, voters last went to the polls in 2021 rather than 2020 as the election was postponed because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

ALSO READ-London’s Iconic Kricket Debuts in India at Magazine St. Kitchen

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Food London News

London’s Iconic Kricket Debuts in India at Magazine St. Kitchen

Magazine St. Kitchen, the epicentre of culinary innovation, is set to redefine the gastronomic landscape of Mumbai in January 2024 with a trio of exceptional Guest Chef Series events, each promising an unrivalled experience.

Flavours of the Nawabs – Manzilat’s Magazine St. Kitchen

Embark on an exquisite journey with Chef Manzilat Fatima, a culinary luminary and a distinguished member of the Royal Family of Avadh. Born into Calcutta’s oldest Shia Muslim family, Chef Manzilat’s culinary prowess goes beyond her professional expertise, reflecting a deep passion for food and history. From being a lawyer to curating unique authentic Awadhi home dining experiences in Calcutta, she seamlessly combines tradition with local ingredients. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Awadh as Chef Manzilat crafts a sharing-style menu, featuring both Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian options, inviting you to partake in a gastronomic experience that fuses history and flavour.

Dates: Friday, January 12, 2024 and Saturday, January 13, 2024 | 7:30 pm – 10:30 pm

Price: Rs. 3,750/-

Venue: Magazine St. Kitchen, 13-A, Gala No. 3/4/5, Magazine St., Devidayal Mill, Reay Road East, Darukhana, Byculla, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400010


BBQ at the Baug with Chef Christopher Fernandes at The Table Far

Indulge in the ultimate meat fiesta with Chef Christopher Fernandes at The Table Farm in Alibag. Revered as one of India’s foremost barbecue pit masters, Chef Christopher, owner of Cravings by Chris in Goa, is set to create a culinary spectacle. Renowned for his exceptional cuts of meats and smoking techniques, including the famed brisket, Chef Chris is a cultural icon in India’s live-fire cooking scene. The event promises an immersive experience with an open pit and slow roast, crafted uniquely by Chef Chris and The Table Farm team.

Date: January 21, 2024 | 11:30 am – 3:30 pm

Price: Rs. 5,000/-

Venue: The Table Farm, Awas Road, Sasawane Koliwada Road, Aliabug, Maharashtra 402201

Get bowled out at Magazine St. Kitchen with Kricket, UK

Experience the debut of Kricket in India as Magazine St. Kitchen proudly hosts the renowned London-based collection of modern Indian restaurants founded in 2015 by university friends Will Bowlby and Rik Campbell. Chef Will, the creative force behind Kricket, brings his unique fusion of British ingredients and Indian flavours to Mumbai. The menu, presented as a tasting experience with both Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian options, showcases Kricket’s mastery in combining the best of both culinary worlds. Be part of this historic occasion as Magazine St. Kitchen transforms into the stage for Kricket’s Indian premiere with the Honar Group and Monika Alcobev.

Dates: Wednesday, January 24, 2024 & Thursday, January 25, 2024 | 7:00 pm – 10:30 pm

Price: Rs. 5,000/-

Venue: Magazine St. Kitchen, 13-A, Gala No. 3/4/5, Magazine St., Devidayal Mill, Reay Road East, Darukhana, Byculla, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400010

“We are thrilled to start 2024 on such an experimental note. Getting in Kricket to Magazine St. Kitchen for the first time is a pleasure, and Chef Chris yet again to The Table Farm. The first time I had Manzilat’s food in Kolkata, I knew I had to get her to Magazine St. Kitchen. Each collaboration represents a cultural and culinary bridge between great food and our guests – a testament to our commitment to bringing diverse, global culinary experiences to our patrons,” shares Gauri Devidayal, Co-Founder, of Food Matters Group.

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Food London News Restaurant Reviews

Bid Farewell to 2023 on a Tasteful Note: Gourmet NYE Dining at W Hotel, London

Indulge in a final feast this New Year’s Eve at W Lounge before you’re pulled to an evening that seamlessly blends dazzling elegance with unrestrained indulgence at The Perception Bar. A Three-course meal complimented with a glass of Veuve Clicquot Champagne will make it a NYE dining experience to remember! A feature by FnB columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

New year eve’s menu in the run up to NYE has been designed by the head chef Rohan Almeida and his team to give discerning diners a unique visual of textures, colours, and a taste of contrasting yet complementing flavours, all cooked with a modern approach and with a focus on sustainability. So if looking for the perfect NYE plan, you can book to Indulge in a 3 course meal experience of colourful, vibrant and playful dishes with a glass of bubbles, which will setting the prefect tone for ushering in 2024.

You can expect to see on the menu starters like Chicken liver Parfait, served with port caramelised onion chutney Or guests can choose their pescatarian option of Beetroot and Gin Cured Salmon topped with saffron mayo and celeriac. There’s also a vegetarian starter option of the delish Burrata tomato salad with black olives and pine nuts.

For the main course diners will be able to choose from Confit duck leg served with braised red cabbage and lentils in a red wine sauce. Or some Cornfed chicken, served with root vegetables asparagus and tarragon cream sauce. Vegetarians can delight their senses and try the Wild Mushroom risotto, topped with shaved truffle. The meals are all plated and presented in style. 

To finish the meal on a sweet note, dessert options will include passion fruit cheesecake with honeycomb; Orange and chocolate tart with vanilla icecream and then there is also their signature matcha rice pudding to choose from. 

“I have curated W London’s New Year’s Eve special celebratory menu to entice your senses especially discerning tastebuds and allow for some feasting first with the eyes! No matter what you choose from the menu options among the courses where there is something for most palates, the NYE three-course dining experience will take you through a culinary journey among flavourful dishes and contrasting tastes presented and paired together for a unique experience also using sustainable and local ingredients — making it the perfect final feast to wrap your eventful year and begin a new one on a decadent note.” Head Chef- Rohan Almeida

In London’s vibrant West End, W London – Leicester Square offers luxury bedrooms and an excellent location as many main attractions in central London orbit this luxe hotel within walkable distance. At W London you can be rest assured that you are stepping into a vibe that seamlessly blends dazzling elegance with unrestrained indulgence. Located in Soho, W London holds the stage in the epicentre of London’s multicultural core. Designed for those seeking a chic stay while exploring London Town, the W Hotel on Wardour Street has a buzzing and trendy vibe. Indulge in a mouth-watering dining experience in the run up to New Year’s Eve with their celebratory menu to make it a final feast of the year to remember! Highly Recommended!

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Food London News Restaurant Reviews

Tokri Restaurant in London: Traditional Indian Recipes, Modern Rendition by Ram Kishor

When you walk into the restaurant you will feel a heartfelt welcome to Tokri, where heartwarming hospitality meets culinary artistry. Their cozy, inviting ambiance provides the perfect backdrop as the chef’s culinary creations take center stage. They source freshest local and seasonal ingredients to craft imaginative dishes that balance flavors and textures. A meal at Tokri is a gastronomic journey that engages the senses and connects discerning diners in London to the bounty of cuisine from the subcontinent. A feature by FnB columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International. 

At Tokri there are way too many dishes that meet the criteria for Must-Try Signature Eats and Creatively Crafted Drinks that are sure to delight your senses. No meal is complete unless it starts with the signature Tokri Chana Chaat which features a mouthwatering medley of potatoes carved into a crunchy basket topped with protein-packed chickpeas marinated in aromatic spices. This is then topped with sweet and tangy yogurt, fresh mint, tamarind chutney. A true taste of Indian street food in London.

Indulge in the comforting flavors of India with their hearty, homemade curries and sides. Their talented chefs marry freshly ground aromatic spices with tender meats, veggies, lentils and more to craft nostalgic dishes from India brimming with warmth. The team at Tokri honours culinary traditions while adding their own contemporary twists.

The lively bar at Tokri features unique cocktails made from premium liquors and fresh ingredients. Or enjoy their selection of international beers, wine, premium spirits and non-alcoholic drinks. Pull up a seat at the marble bar and sip innovative drinks in a relaxing atmosphere.

Chef Patron Ram Kishor brings over 15 years of hospitality and foodservice experience as the CEO of Tokri and Riya Foods Ltd catering. Inspired to disrupt the industry with fine dining at affordable prices, he created Tokri to deliver unforgettable dining moments.

Having grown up immersed in his family’s farming and foodservice business, Ram gathered nurturing yet tasteful characteristics from his parents. These experiences instilled in him a strength of character and desire to create a warm, inviting restaurant where people enjoy themselves. With his extensive industry background and passion for hospitality, Ram leads Tokri in delivering one-of-a-kind dining experiences and the restaurant which is in its first quarter, has received high praise from press, food critics and guests alike.

Tokri which is in Acton area of west london,  opened in its doors recently in October 2023.  Tokri is owned by Ram Kishor, who started his food career by catering for a cricket team in Chandigarh before joining the Mauraya ITC in Delhi, home to the famous Bukhara restaurant. He later moved to London and worked at Mela in Shaftesbury Avenue, and in 2011 started a business called Riya Foods, supplying several high-end Indian restaurants in London. Tokri is in a parade of shops and has a luxe and upbeat décor. The menu has something for everyone, the restaurant caters to halal dietary requirements. There are also vegan options. 

Popadoms to start with are served with a mango chutney and a fragrant mint chutney which has a kick to it . Tandoori lamb chops are a sure winner, they marinated with yoghurt flavoured with robust spices before being cooked in the tandoor. It is plated and served with a side salad of mooli (radish) and elevated by some mustard. One of the best sellers for pescatarian guests is stone bass tikka achari (made with pickling spices) served with sweet chilli and garlic chutney.

Main course hands down winner is the Champaran meat which is a regional dish from Indian, a nod to Chefs own heritage. Methi murgh is also a winner of a chicken dish. Nadru palak is a refreshing side dish for an Indian menu in london.

Their Dal makhani is authentic , it’s cooked overnight and is suitably rich with a hint of smoky flavour. The bread selection is varied and each as good. They have a range of starters, mains, sides, breads, rice, desserts. 

For dessert, gulab jamun is a warm and comforting sweet for this weather. Their pista kulfi is also made in house. The rasmalai on the menu is a must try too, it is so spongy it’s worth writing home about! 

Service is very friendly, attentive, helpful; food in its taste, its presentation, its portion sizes is all generous and on point; and overall the vibe at Tokri is relaxing. Highly Recommend this delicious culinary experience!

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An Iconic Venue for a Countryside Dream Wedding: Stapleford Park Hotel, Leicestershire

Stapleford Park country house hotel sits in the heart of England near Melton Mowbray, in Leicestershire, within the East Midlands. Understated luxury at one of the greatest English country estates, makes it the perfect venue for a wedding adventure to begin. A feature by lifestyle columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

Stapleford Park is an enchanting hotel situated in the heart of rural Leicestershire. Nestled amidst 500 acres of lush greenery and furnished with romantic florals, it is the perfect location for weddings, engagements and other memorable celebrations. Whether you are looking for a traditional wedding breakfast or a civil ceremony, Stapleford Park will make your wedding dreams come true.

Whether you’re looking for an intimate wedding for 8, or a decadent party for 180, their beautifully appointed private rooms & Grand Hall were built for this very reason – to entertain and in style. At the end of the celebrations, wedding guests can retire to their individually designed bedroom. Stapleford Park has all of the ingredients for hosting the perfect wedding festivities. A total of 48 rooms boast an array of elegant suites with beautiful decor. With original features and unique design, there is a perfect space for everyone at Stapleford Park. There are even pet-friendly rooms, so your guests’ with  four-legged friends can also celebrate with you.

Their Head Chef and his experienced team serve only the finest ingredients with a decadent and bespoke personally tailored to your occasion. Stapleford Park’s award-winning in-house catering team take inspiration from locally sourced ingredients, producing decadent and delish creations for you and your guests to savour. However, should the couple wish they can even bring in their preferred caterer. 

On the wedding day the guests can curve through the gated entrance, taking in the late 17th century house with its bays and eaves blended with the Tudor old wing, the bride can descend gracefully down the grand main staircase, suffused with light from the glass dome above. The blessing can be conducted in an exquisitely sheltered church on the estate, just a short walk from the main house. With the elegant grandeur of the Main House and the tranquil landscaped gardens providing the perfect backdrop, any wedding at Stapleford Park is truly iconic.

Now coming to the practical arrangements; the dedicated and passionate events team at Stapleford Park have a wealth of experience, and will be on hand at all times before and on your bid day, so you can relax and enjoy your special celebrations in the trust and knowledge that you are in safe and expert hands .

And if you are looking to calm those pre-wedding nerves or unwind after the celebrations and hosting, you can spend a few hours chilling in their luxury spa and wellness centre. With a huge range of treatments and packages to choose from, it will really add the icing to your wedding treats.

With a range of options available, discerning couples and families can choose a tailor-made wedding package that feels right for them and make Stapleford Park the perfect venue for your wedding celebrations to remember.

With a touch of British antiquity in every space, precious memories of esteemed  royalty including King George VI and Edward VIII, emanate through the sprawling, timeless estate. The impressive gardens maintain their magnificence, creating a stunning backdrop for wedding photography with its arched hedges, whimsical walkways and perfectly manicured lawns.

Eloic Montagnier, General Manager at Stapleford Park, said: “In collaboration with the couple getting married our talented and award-winning team thoughtfully design a wedding celebration that uniquely reflects their character, commitment and shared values.

 The beautifully appointed private rooms and Grand Hall at Stapleford Park were built to entertain. The options include an intimate civil ceremony in our lovely Morning and Gilt Room overlooking the tranquil parkland, a blessing in the 18th century Church on the estate or an exclusive hire of the country house for a decadent party of up to 180 guests.”

GM added, “Each wedding is a truly grandeur experience for all with impressive elements such as the gated entrance on arrival, the 17th century architecture blended with the Tudor old wing, the elegant staircase and the stunning 500 acres of Capability Brown landscape. Our Head Chef and his brigade serve a tailored and decadent menu using the finest ingredients but couples can also opt for a preferred catering arrangement if more suited. At the end of the celebrations, guests can retire to their bedroom; each one individual in style and designed by iconic British names including Mulberry, Nina Campbell, and Wedgewood. A wedding at Stapleford Park is truly iconic.”

A top location for weddings Stapleford Park is voted as one of the top 50 wedding venues in the UK and is renowned for being one of the top-most romantic wedding locations in England. The location is idyllic for a country house wedding in a peaceful environment and tranquil atmosphere. The great thing about this location is that you can acquire all the help you need from wedding event coordinators to pampering sessions with spa therapists, this makes the organising process a lot calmer and less frantic. Highly Recommended!

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The Paddington Christmas Afternoon Tea Bus Tour: A one-of-a-kind extraordinary experience

Looking for a very rare Christmas experience for little cubs and grown-ups alike? ‘Bear’ with it all and indulge in a Paddington Christmas Afternoon Tea Bus Tour! With festive treats on-board a beautifully decorated, twinkling classic routemaster bus, it’s the paw-fect way to enjoy the festive sights of London, including the Regent Street Christmas lights! A feature by columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

Brigit’s Bakery have launched the very first Paddington Afternoon Tea Bus Tour in London.

The Paddington Afternoon Tea Bus Tour is available weekly from Wednesdays to Sundays. And for the most entertaining of all London bus tours, their chefs have created a finger-lickin’ Paddington-themed afternoon tea menu featuring the best marmalade sandwich ever! 

Taking in the best views of Central London, their iconic double-decker Routemaster bus will take you past some of Paddington’s favourite London landmarks, and you can be sure you’ll hear about some of his fun adventures and mishaps! 

This Paddington-approved tour includes Big Ben, The Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Hyde Park, Nelson’s Column, Downing Street, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Borough Market, Green Park, Piccadilly Circus, and much more.

Each table comes with a special built-in screen providing guests with a Paddington-guided animation of the tour of London. Paddington and Mrs Bird will be telling you all about some of the City’s most famous landmarks and share the beloved bear’s view of the world.

From November to early January, you’ll be able to enjoy the spectacular Regent Street Christmas Lights on their 17:30 Paddington tour, turning your afternoon tea bus tour into a dazzling experience.

They have a range of menus to cater for all requirements and preferences and offer Traditional, Vegan, Vegetarian, Halal, and Gluten-free. Due to the length of the tour and having no toilets on board the bus, their Paddington Tours are best suited, and enjoyed, by children of 5 years and over.

On arrival, you are warmly welcomed and then you can board the bus ahead of your 1 hour 45 minute tour. Your tastebuds will be tantalised by a selection of sandwiches, cakes and freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam. You can pair your food with your choice of drinks from the selections including hot chocolate, coffee, tea and water. Each table comes with a special built-in screen featuring Paddington-guided animation with the beloved bear himself and Mrs Bird. Get ready for a bear-tastic day out with this Paddington Afternoon Tea Bus Tour!

ALSO READ: Streetery: Authentic Pan-Asian Flavours in Dubai

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Meraki: Exquisite Greek Dining In London

Meraki brings to life the Greek concept of ‘Filoxenia’ which translates as ‘Friend to a stranger’.  Dining at Meraki is like being in a friends’ home, and the staff (the heart of Meraki) treat each guest with the hospitality Greece is known for, an ancient Greek value that still lives on today! Peter Waney opened Meraki in 2017, bringing his knowledge, expertise, and family’s passion for Greece to the heart of Fitzrovia. After seeing a gap in the market for premium, Greek, and Mediterranean cuisine in London, the concept of Meraki was created. A feature by FnB columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International

Meraki is all about Greek plates & unique craft cocktails presented in a breezy, brick-lined setting with stylish decor. Culinary Director Sanjay Dwivedi joined the brand to help realise  their vision, encouraging the talented team of chefs to use their creative imaginations, to elevate and refine the Meraki menu, for a fresh, exciting, mouth-watering gastronomical experience. Meraki’s team of impressive chefs have used their knowledge, passion and expertise to refine and redefine the menu, offering a taste of the soul of Greece infused with the heart and warmth of the Mediterranean.

Meraki is nestled in the heart of Fitzrovia. The team has scoured the length and breadth of Greece’s regions to find the most tantalising ingredients such as Bottarga from Mesologgi, tomatoes from Santorini and butter from Crete. Creating a menu that tastes of the soul of Greece with seasonally changing sharing mezze dishes, chargrilled meats and whole fish dishes that are carved right in front of your eyes at the table and offers the heart and warmth of the Mediterranean.

When you dine at Meraki, prepare to be mesmerised, they have everything you need to be transported out of London and to the stunning views of the Greek islands. They have a terrace, a main floor offering floor to ceiling windows, countertop seating where you can watch their expert chefs prepare your food as you dine. Plus, a lower ground floor with rustic bare brick walls, ideal for large groups and semi-private events. They can provide for any occasion and create the perfect atmosphere for any event.

Meraki Bar sprawls across two floors, with a separate entrance on 30 Foley Street. With three distinct areas, the cosy terrace is an ideal spot to enjoy an evening cocktail from their highly acclaimed menu, inspired by the ‘Pretty Stories from the Cyclades’. The upstairs bar is perfect to enjoy an after-work aperitivo and light bite.

Meraki was opened by Peter Waney, who along with his brother, Arjun, started their restaurant career in London 15 years ago, beginning with Zuma in Knightsbridge, followed by Roka and La Petite Maison. More recently, the Waney family has acquired and revamped award winning, internationally renown The Arts Club on Dover Street as well as Oblix at The Shard, Coya in Piccadilly and Coya Angel Court in The City.

About Sanjay Dwivedi 

London born but Delhi raised, Sanjay Dwivedi has always been surrounded by food. First learning the craft round his family table, Sanjay soon climbed the chef ladder, honing his skills at a diverse mix of notable restaurants including a decade at Zaika, the first Indian restaurant to receive a Michelin star, and Oliver Peyton’s Coast Restaurant and Atlantic Bar and Grill.  

Sanjay follows no rules when it comes to cooking, pioneering his own style, constantly pushing the envelope, and striving to create boisterous and clever dishes, Sanjay is a raconteur of the culinary world. A man who isn’t afraid of blending the abstract with the mundane, he is forever improving and researching.  

Prior to joining the Meraki family in early 2022, Sanjay played a vital role in the success of popular Peruvian favourite COYA. As the opening Executive Chef and Culinary Director for the group, he developed a menu marrying modern, European techniques with Asian influences, overseeing the flagship venue in Mayfair (opened 2012), along with international destinations including Monte Carlo, Dubai and Abu Dhabi.  

Sanjay’s gift and passion for seeing great potential and acting on it, allows him to create, and deliver ground-breaking menus to audiences worldwide. It is with this same level of dedication Sanjay aims to both elevate and refine the gastronomical dining experience at contemporary Greek restaurant group Meraki, as they embark upon their own journey around the world. Outside of the kitchen, Sanjay has enjoyed time on the small screen having appeared on number of programs including Channel 4’s Iron Chef UK and BBC1’s MasterChef.  

Conclusively, Meraki means ‘to create with your heart and soul’, and every aspect of Meraki has been created entirely with their hearts and souls. From our modern Mediterranean menu using the finest, authentic ingredients to their warm and generous hospitality. The food is exquisitely presented, vibe at the restaurant is unmatched; service is attentive and the taste of their delectable cuisine is top-notch. Highly Recommended!