Tag: London

Categories
Events Lite Blogs London News

The big garba in London

Expressing Joy in A Grand Colourful Display Celebrating India’s Cultural Heritage in The Heart of London. IIW Inspiring Indian Women in partnership with NCGO (National Council of Gujarati organisations UK) in association with BWIS (British Women in Sarees) presented The Big Garba…reports Asian Lite News

Purpose of this grand celebrations was to create awareness about the Garba to gen next, to tell the world about Garba and showcase the ethnic costume, to celebrate our cultural heritage, to bring British Indians together and show oneness, to celebrate inclusion of Garba as an Intangible Heritage by UNESCO, to bring opportunity for the various dance schools as well as ladies to make a difference to the society and express pride in their ethnicity

The celebrations started from King’s Cross station 14th April. The following Dance Schools participated on the day -Dance to inspire by Angelique Pervez, Nina Choreography, SSGD Sonal’s School of Garba dance, Neha Sachin’s Sarjan Nritya Academy, Harrow care plus and BWIS

Next was at ‘The Scoop at More’ near London Tower Bridge on 21st April. The participating groups were, British Women in Sarees (BWIS), D Bolly Dance by Dhruvil Chauhan and Dimple Agarwal, IIW North India Global led by Sunita Chaubey and Rhythm Academy

Finale was at Piccadilly Circus/ Leicester Square on 1st May (Gujarat Day) Performances by London School of Garba, Sagar Group Hounslow and British Women in Sarees.

Special Mention for support- Namaste Kingston, SEEEFI (Socio economic environment education foundation initiative) Ujjwal Banga, IDUK (Indian Diaspora in UK) Hirdesh Gupta, Andrea Santoni, NACHA UK (NRI Association of Chattisgarh ), Vishv Umiya Foundation, GCS Brighton, Vimal Odedara NCGO, Krishna Pujara’s Enfield Saheli,  Luitporia Nasoni (Chinu Kishore) , Pink Pearls Photography, Kranthi Roy, Blue Drapes Photography, Gargi Sequira from Richy Gargi Music, Women 2 Women (Geeta Shah), National Patidar Samaj (Pravin Amin), Jitubhai Patel – Sojitra Samaj, Longest serving Hindu Met Police Officer Purnima Raval, Vandana Joshi and Bharat Sachania.

Other organisations which extended their moral support were Kadwa Patidar Samaj, . , Anjie Chhapia’s Harrow Care, CamCareUK Registered Charity,  Asian Foundation for Help, Brent Indian Association, Daalia’s IBUK Indian Bengali’s Association,  Anirban Mandal’s Heritage Bengal Global, Gyan Sharma’s Sangam UK, Bihari Connect, International Dogra Society, Nilesh Joshi’s Sanatan Shakti, MA TV UK, Rajasthan Association UK, WellbeingOn CIC, Shree Jagannatha Society UK, Odisha society of UK, Haryana Association in UK, IndiansVoice .co.uk, Sutton Friends, Healing Our Earth, United Assam Association UK, London Indian Elder Group- Sumantrai Desai, Gujarati Culture Society: Brighton – Hove, Joydeep Das’ EEL (Entrepreneurship Entertainment, Lifestyle), Suresh Gupta’s India Welfare Society- Registered Charity, Sanatan Sanstha UK (SSUK), Chaa Gaam Nagrick Mandal UK, VediccaLondon, Vedic Cultural Association, INSA Indian National Students Association, Lyca Gold, Chelmsford Hindu Society, Palan Foundation, Oshwal Association of the UK, Jharkhand Network UK, Dhun (Made for music), Lohana community North Harrow, Give- Mental Health & Well-being Charity www.givesurrey.org, Himachali Link UK, SmadFun – fundraising ‘not for profit’ for education, Bengali Hindu Adarsha Sangha BHAS, UP Girls in UK, International Khattri Mahasabha, Friends of Madhya Pradesh – UK Chapter, Hindu Cultural Center, Voice of Dogra, ‘Indian Heritage Centre UK’ https://indianheritagecentre.com/, Global Kashmiri Pandit Diaspora, Laughter Yoga Kalpana Doshi, Mangalam UK, Leading London to a better tomorrow, ⁠Kala Utsav.

For the first time the British Indians – Non Gujaratis, Gujaratis, non-performers, Home Makers, Professionals unite in the biggest of its kind in the History of UK and Europe!! Volunteers behind the scenes were Rashmi Mishra, Shweta Khanna, Jay Desai, Neha Premgi, Yashma Bakshi, Anjali Sharma, Neha Gupta, Seema Khandelwal, Rajashree Vyas, Sarika Handa, Soniya Joshi, Darshana Shah, Heenba Zala, Shipra Gomes, Betania Fernandes

The entire celebrations were an amazing show of unity and a great team work at display. Everyone was part of this in some way or the other morally or physically as the series of Garba celebrations continued, each of the community organisations and the various enthusiastic performers joined in support to show their cultural pride.

As the world stopped to see and feel the traditional Indian folk galore –A sense of ‘mission accomplished’, engulfed the hearts of those participating.

ALSO READ-VORI, London: Holland Park’s Favourite Modern Greek Taverna

Categories
-Top News London News UK News

Sadiq Khan Secures Third Term as London Mayor

Voting was held on May 2 across the 14 London Assembly constituencies, and the results were declared at the City Hall….reports Asian Lite News

Incumbent Sadiq Khan of the Labour Party was re-elected as the Mayor of London for a record third time on Saturday, defeating Conservative Party candidate Susan Hall by over a million votes.

Voting was held on May 2 across the 14 London Assembly constituencies, and the results were declared at the City Hall.

London’s mayoral election generated quite a bit of interest considering that Khan has been accused of going soft on crime – from thefts, shoplifting, and robberies to attacks involving knives – and also widening the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) which imposes a daily charge of 12.50 pound on non-compliant polluting vehicles operating in a selected territory of the capital city.

Hall, who promised to “get a grip” on crime in London, accused Khan of closing 36 police stations and failing to hire more than 1,000 police officers. She also repeatedly listed stats showing how the crime rate has surged since Khan took over as the London Mayor in 2016.

“He has failed London. If Sadiq Khan stays in power, he will take that as permission to keep on ignoring you,” she said during her campaign.

The Tory candidate promised “getting the police out solving crimes again”, saying that she would recruit 1,500 more police officers, set up two new police bases in every borough, bring back borough-based policing, and take firm, targeted actions against knife crime, women’s safety and theft.

Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen, one of the most outspoken critics of Khan, also took repeated jibes at the London Mayor while highlighting the rising crime rate in the city.

“Gotta go into London today. NO WATCH and a plastic ring! Congrats, Sadiq Khan!” he posted on X with a photograph of his left hand, last month.

“This bloke has been in charge for years now and all of this London nonsense has been on HIS clock. Blame everyone else, Sadiq Khan – we all know what the greatest leaders DON’T do,” Pietersen said in another post in March in response to Khan saying that keeping Londoners safe was his “number one” priority.

Many experts were keeping a close eye on London’s mayoral elections considering that the country, which has had five Conservative Prime Ministers since 2010, is expected to go to polls later this year.

“It’s time to turn the page on Tory decline and usher in a decade of national renewal with Labour,” Labour Party MP Keir Starmer wrote on X.

A day before the Mayoral elections, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak had urged Londoners to back the Conservatives highlighting the rising crime, taxes, and the ULEZ issues.

ALSO READ: Mayor Sadiq Khan rules out Ulez changes

Categories
Food London News Restaurant Reviews

Shanghai Noir: A Decadent Indo-Chinese Brasserie in the heart of London Westminster

Descend into an art-deco-infused den of fire and spice as Indo-Chinese brasserie Shanghai Noirbrings intriguing new flavour to the heart of Westminster. Taking up residence on the lower ground floor of the stunning, Grade II listed Old Westminster Fire Station, Shanghai Noir harks back to the heyday of 1920s and 1930s Shanghai with a fusion of powerful flavours, and opulent furnishings. A heady atmosphere that’s heavy with anticipation captures the spirit of the city that never slept and brings an air of the unexpected to every visit. A feature by FnB columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

Undisputedly the most modern and alluring Chinese city in the 1930s, Shanghai was a seductive concoction of glamour and sin, prompting some to call it “The Paris of the East”. The arriving Art Deco style was reinterpreted with more sumptuous Chinese materials like lacquer, ivory, local woods, and silks and created a sensual experience like no other. Shanghai Noir’s 78-cover sultry subterranean vibe restaurant draws on the very essence of what made that era so extraordinary, cleverly distilling it into the lower ground level of one of London’s most beautiful historic buildings.

The restaurant and bar are open Monday-Friday evenings from 5pm until midnight, then for lunch and dinner service on Saturdays. Spiced aromas and low lighting will guide you down the staircase surrounded by chinoiserie wallpaper and gleaming brass accents.

Inside, tables are dotted with small, red-fringed lamps, casting sultry lighting and mysterious shadows around the space where you can just as easily slip into a clandestine corner for surreptitious gossip over cocktails as you can take up space by gathering as a group for larger get togethers over a fusion feast.

The Edwardian-era building provides plenty of characterful private dining nooks to suit special occasions and add another layer of intrigue to your evening: The Opium Saloon (16 guests), The Den (38 guests), The Snake Charmer (24 guests) and a Chef’s Table experience is available for 9 guests at a time.

A place where culinary artistry meets unparalleled luxury, Shanghai Noir strives to infuse every moment with the essence of indulgence and refinement; whether that’s providing Saturday lunchtime sustenance through starters and small plates, or layering tables with colourful collusions of Chef’s specials and sides for an evening’s event at this Indo-Chinese fine dining restaurant.

Familiar calling cards of Chinese cuisine take on complex flavour profiles or twists on tradition with an Indo-spin. Seared black bean scallops, Paneer garlic cream mushroom bao, Devil’s chicken lollipop, and Green papaya & mango salad bring zest, depth and tang to dishes that can either be eaten as starters, a moreish accompaniment to cocktails, or ordered in abundance for a tasting table full of delicious smaller servings.

Innovative mains include a bold Chef’s Selection showcasing next level Eastern-inspired creations. Embrace the opulence of the era with the likes of garlic Pak choy stew and jasmine rice, finished with gold leaf. Bhot Jolakhiya Chilli Chicken with Glenmorangie Fire prepares spatchcock chicken with the hottest chilli in the world for a flavourful hit that is hard to beat, and whole Cantonese Steamed Ginger Sea Bream permeates the air with delicate aromatics of lemon, fresh herbs, and ginger root.

The selection of homemade steamed Dumplings is a must-try, with fillings such as lamb, chicken or vegetables, served with tomato & key lime chutney as well as the option to add a broth. Shanghai Noodles come stir-fried Calcutta ‘Street Style’, or as soft buckwheat soba drenched in a red seafood broth and brimming with catch of the day fish, mussels, squid & octopus.

Desserts provide spectacle as well as substance with the signature Coconut Lychee Pannacotta with Pandan leaf-infused coconut pudding, lychee cream, fresh lychee & tapioca pearls, served within a dramatic dry ice bath.

Have you ever been served from an Assassin’s Teapot? Or sat down to share a Smoking Dragon? Masterfully created cocktails come laced with intriguing new layers of fusion flavour beautifully served within clever contraptions that immerse guests evermore into the Shanghai Noir experience.

The Shanghai Noir Firecracker comes smoking inside the Assassin’s Teapot; an intriguing artefact from history, embodying both ingenuity and malevolence. This teapot’s clever design once allowed the host to serve different beverages (or in the most nefarious cases, poison) to guests from the same vessel, simply by pressing a specific mechanism or aligning the teapot’s spout in a particular way. Now the hidden brew consists of nothing more sinister than a refreshing, punchy blend of Szechuan pepper infused gin, Campari, vermouth, orange bitters, mango & soda. The signature shake-up can also be theatrically served for two to share in the show stopping, intricately designed glass dragon. It’s the perfect place to enjoy sinfully decadent drinks! 

Other Indo-Chinese concoctions to be sure to sample include a fruity, aromatic take on the classic Margarita, The Shanghai (Tequila Blanco, kiwi, coriander, lime & almond); and The Pearl, a sweet creamy blend of vodka, pistachio & lychee to honour the generations of sweet makers from the two nations.  

The wine list is well researched and helpfully split into sections of those that go best with either Indian spice or Oriental flavours. And for an even more premium experience, an impressive offering of Fine Wines features sought-after French vintages ready to impress including: the Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc, Domaine de la Janasse, Rhône, France (2020) for £160 per bottle; and the Château Rocheyron Grand Cru St-Emilion, Bordeaux, France (2011) for £245 per bottle.

A luxurious, East Asian dining experience in the heart of London’s Westminster, Shanghai Noir lifts the veil on an iconic era of glitz, glamour and mystery that begs to be explored. Attentive service, charming vibe, delish cuisine, stylish presentation, luxe decor all in all makes it a meal experience to remember! Highly Recommended! 

About the Executive Chef of Shanghai Noir: Amit Bagyal

Amit Bagyal is a highly creative Indian origin chef in London with over 16 years of experience in the culinary industry.

He’s also been the executive chef of fine dining Indian restaurant Yaatra, before that Amit was the Head Chef of Kanishka, where he oversaw the kitchens of Kanishka Mayfair, Kanishka Kitchen Heathrow, and Mathura Restaurant. He was responsible for ensuring the high standards of fine dining, culinary skills, and food and beverage were maintained.

Chef Amit has also held positions as the Sous Chef at Michelin-starred Benares in Mayfair from 2019-2021 where they regained their Michelin star, Head Chef of Masala Dabbas Foods from 2017-2019 and Senior Sous Chef at the Strand Palace Hotel from 2016-2017. Over the years, Amit has developed his trademark cooking style of taking tried and tested Indian dishes and giving them his own bold spin with fine-dining levels of presentation. 

ALSO READ: An idyllic countryside Pub Motel: The Blue Boar Inn, Warwickshire

Categories
Food London News Restaurant Reviews

SPAGNOLETTI: An All-Day Italian and Pasta Lab

Spagnoletti serves Italian soul food enriched with contemporary flair, in a whimsically retro-futuristic environment and centred around an ethos of one simple ingredient: flour. A feature by columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International

They make their fresh ingredients onsite every day for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the theatrical open kitchen where discerning diners and go and enjoy all manner of pastries, breads, snacks, small plates, sharing plates, pasta dishes, signature standouts and sweet desserts.

Debuting a brand-new flour-lab concept in the heart of King’s Cross, the menu is a loving collaboration between their Chefs, and the wacky restaurant design itself is inspired by one of London’s most innovative engineers.

The interior is cleverly divided into different environments perfect for individuals, groups, parties, or business events. A journey to the upper floor will take you to Spagnoletti Spritz Lounge, housing a long communal bar that serves draught Venetian wine, beer on tap and a creative cocktail station.

From lunchtime onwards, you can witness the making of agnoletti, rigatoni and stunning ciccetti dishes, lovingly created and served from the open cucina that takes centre-stage on the ground floor. 

Henry Chebaane is the creative mastermind behind the interiors of the Megaro hotel overall and At Spagnoletti, he has imagined a vibrant, stylish, and exuberant environment sitting behind the 19th century façade. The name and design are inspired by Charles Spagnoletti, the 19th century London engineer and inventor, who was responsible for the development of the telegraphic signalling systems first used on the Metropolitan line, and then on most of the British railways which were passing through King’s Cross Station. There are plenty of hidden surprises that were inspired by this innovator – around every corner at Spagnoletti, there’s something new to discover.

Their menu is designed for the meals to be shared, rather than individual portions – the proper Italian way! Visit them for Italian soul food, served in a retro-futuristic ‘flour lab’ amidst the buzz of London King’s Cross. They are all about Simple, honest Italian food which is enriched with contemporary flair to deliver an uncompromised quality of flavours at affordable prices. The vibe of the restaurant is welcoming and relaxed, the music creates a chilled downtime vibe, the food is delicious and unique in amazing flavours, ingredients are fresh, presentation is charming, service is attentive, all in all its a wonderful experience and is Highly Recommended! 

Categories
-Top News Arab News London News

London police chief faces calls to quit over Gaza protests

Other figures including UK Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden were highly critical of the Met but stopped short of saying Rowley should go…reports Asian Lite News

The head of London’s Metropolitan (Met) Police is facing calls to quit over the force’s handling of pro-Palestinian protests. Both the Campaign Against Antisemitism (CAA) and former UK home secretary Suella Braverman have called for Sir Mark Rowley to resign or be sacked, accusing him of having “emboldened” antisemites.

Braverman used an op-ed in The Sunday Telegraph to demand Rowley’s resignation, saying people who were “flagrantly antisemitic” were being “waved on by the police.”

She said: “Either this is gross incompetence, or it’s a culture coming from the top, where thugs are free to intimidate and harass while the rest of us have to keep our mouths shut and stay out of the way.”

In a statement, the CAA’s chief executive, Gideon Falter, said: “Racists, extremists and terrorist sympathisers have watched the excuses and inertia of the Met under his command and been emboldened by his inaction at precisely the moment when he should be signalling a renewed determination to crack down on this criminality.

“What the Met under Sir Mark has done to the Jewish community over the course of six months is utterly unforgivable and it is time for him to go. Enough is enough.”

Other figures including UK Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden were highly critical of the Met but stopped short of saying Rowley should go.

Dowden told The Sunday Telegraph that the force had been “disrespecting” Jews while Lord Walney, the UK government’s adviser on political violence, accused the Met of displaying “institutional antisemitism.” Rowley said: “Every member of the Met is determined to ensure that London is a city in which everyone feels safe.

“We absolutely understand how vulnerable Jewish and Muslim Londoners feel since the terrorist attacks on Israel. Some of our actions have increased this concern. I personally reiterate our apology from earlier this week. Today, as with every other day, our officers will continue to police with courage, empathy and impartiality.”

Falter has been at the centre of a row about the policing of demonstrations after the CAA published footage of a police officer describing him as “openly Jewish” during a protest in central London on April 13.

In the clip, another officer told Falter he would be arrested if he did not leave the area because he was “causing a breach of peace with all these other people” as his presence was “antagonising.”

The Met apologised on Friday, suggesting opponents of pro-Palestinian marches “must know that their presence is provocative” and they are “increasing the likelihood of an altercation” by lining the route to object.

But the force subsequently issued another statement apologising for the “further offence” caused by its first apology.

Falter said his treatment had been “a disgrace” and “the inevitable conclusion of six months of inertia and contextualising crimes away by a Met that has curtailed the rights of law-abiding Londoners in order to appease mobs rife with anti-Jewish racists and terrorist sympathisers.”

Policing minister Chris Philp said on Saturday he was “deeply concerned” and would meet Rowley the following week to discuss the incident.

He said: “No-one should be told their religion is provocative, nor an innocent person threatened with arrest solely because of someone else’s anticipated unreasonable reaction.”

Home Secretary James Cleverly has also written to the Met and London Mayor Sadiq Khan about the incident.

A Home Office spokesperson said: “We welcome the Met Police’s apology, and recognise the complexities of policing fast-moving public protests, but simply being Jewish – or of any other race or religion – should never be seen as provocative.

“Anyone of any religion should be free to go about their lives and feel safe doing so.”

A spokesperson for Khan said: “Everybody must feel safe going about in London wherever they please. The way the original incident was dealt with by the Met was concerning and the original response put out by them was insensitive and wrong. The Met have an extremely difficult job – particularly so when it comes to operational decisions taken while policing marches – but in the end the Met must have the confidence of the communities they serve and it is right that they have apologised for the way the incident was handled and their original public response.”

ALSO READ-Benchmark in a Hair-Salon experience: The House of Keune by Bloom, London

Categories
-Top News London News

Minister ‘deeply concerned’ by Met protest row

Gideon Falter, chief executive of Campaign Against Antisemitism, was wearing a kippah skull-cap when he was stopped in the Aldwych area of London and threatened with arrest…reports Asian Lite News

The policing minister has said he is “deeply concerned” after a Met Police officer described an antisemitism campaigner as “openly Jewish” during a pro-Palestine march.

Gideon Falter, chief executive of Campaign Against Antisemitism, was wearing a kippah skull-cap when he was stopped in the Aldwych area of London and threatened with arrest on 13 April.

Falter was told by police his presence was causing a “breach of peace”. The Met has since apologised but Mr Falter called for the force’s commissioner Sir Mark Rowley to resign or be sacked.

Policing Minister Chris Philp said he would meet Sir Mark to discuss his concerns.

He said: “No-one should be told their religion is provocative, nor an innocent person threatened with arrest solely because of someone else’s anticipated unreasonable reaction.”

Scotland Yard has apologised twice for the officer’s phrase.

An initial apology from the Met on Friday was withdrawn after it was criticised as victim-blaming and the Met issued a second statement saying that “being Jewish is not a provocation” and apologised again. It said: “Jewish Londoners must be able to feel safe in this city.”

In a video clip shot at the march, the police officer said: “You are quite openly Jewish, this is a pro-Palestinian march. “I’m not accusing you of anything but I’m worried about the reaction to your presence.”

In a statement issued on Saturday, Falter said what happened at the march was a “disgrace” but the Met’s response in the aftermath was a “stain” on the force’s reputation.

He said Sir Mark should resign or be sacked and he claimed “racists, extremists and terrorist-sympathisers” had been “emboldened” by the Met’s “failure to curtail the marches”.

Falter said there had been a “surge” in anti-Semitic crime and he accused the Met of “inertia”.

Earlier on Saturday, a Home Office spokesperson said the government recognised “the complexities of policing fast-moving public protests” but added being Jewish or of any other religion should not be seen as “provocative”.

The spokesperson added: “Anyone of any religion should be free to go about their lives and feel safe doing so.” It is understood that Home Secretary James Cleverly has written to both the Met and Mayor of London Sadiq Khan about what happened.

A spokesperson for Khan said: “Everybody must feel safe going about in London wherever they please. “The way the original incident was dealt with by the Met was concerning and the original response put out by them was insensitive and wrong. The Met have an extremely difficult job – particularly so when it comes to operational decisions taken while policing marches – but in the end the Met must have the confidence of the communities they serve and it is right that they have apologised for the way the incident was handled and their original public response.”

Tens of thousands of pro-Palestine protesters had gathered in London to call for a ceasefire and to urge the UK government to stop all arms sales to Israel. Falter said he had been walking in the capital after attending synagogue and was not there to counter-protest.

In the clip, another officer said to him: “There’s a unit of people here now.

“You will be escorted out of this area so you can go about your business, go where you want freely, or if you choose to remain here because you are causing a breach of peace with all these other people, you will be arrested.”

The Met has faced criticism for its handling of a series of pro-Palestinian demonstrations since the renewal of hostilities in Gaza last October.

Meanwhile, the Met Police has apologised after an officer said an antisemitism charity leader looked “openly Jewish” as he was threatened with arrest for being near a pro-Palestine march. The force then withdrew its initial statement, after “reflecting on the strength of the response” to it, and issued a second apology for causing further offence.

The original statement talked about a “new trend of those opposed to the main protests appearing alongside the route to express their views”, and “knowing their presence is provocative”.

However, this was criticised as victim-blaming, and the Met issued a second statement saying that “being Jewish is not a provocation” and apologising again.

In the video, one police officer said: “You are quite openly Jewish, this is a pro-Palestinian march, I’m not accusing you of anything but I’m worried about the reaction to your presence.” Another officer said: “You will be escorted out of this area so you can go about your business, go where you want freely or, if you choose to remain here, because you are causing a breach of peace with all these other people, you will be arrested.”

ALSO READ-Sadiq promises 40,000 new London council homes  

Categories
Food London News Restaurant Reviews

Mamalù: Extraordinary Italian Cuisine In London

Opened only a matter of months, award-winning restaurant Mamalù has quickly attracted both locals and visitors to Earl’s Court with its charming and authentic Italian dining experience. Mamalu is the ultimate authentic Italian experience! Directly imported and certified seafood, homemade pasta, seasonal vegetables and uniquely tender dry-aged meat. These tastes will transport you on an incredible dining journey, accompanied by a professional, warm hospitality family. A feature by columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International

Whether the occasion is a leisurely weekend family lunch or an intimate dinner for two, Mamalù’s elegant, relaxed and welcoming atmosphere is synonymous with the warm hospitality that Italian culture is famous for. Showcasing an array of exceptional Italian classics, dishes are prepared using high- quality, sustainable and seasonal ingredients.

Directly from the Italian waters, they offer the freshest raw and cooked seafood, one bite will have you dreaming of Summer days living la dolce vita. Their sommelier will carefully craft the ultimate pairings from our curated list of old world wines… leaving your taste buds excited to discover more. At the heart of Mamalù’s offering is this seafood, much of it caught by certified boats along the coasts of the UK and Italy. The signature is undoubtedly the gorgeous Plateau Royal, with its medley of Mazara red prawns, Sicilian langoustines, pink prawns and plump Gillardeau and Cocollos oysters. Other delights from the raw bar include red tuna tartare with avocado & rocket and red Mazara prawn carpaccio with lemon zest, all complemented by cooked dishes of the calibre of Breton lobster and fried Mediterranean octopus with baby chicory.

That said, there is still plenty here to tempt carnivores too. Then ofcourse the Pasta, often the star of any Italian show, is directly produced daily made using their in-house pasta machine guaranteeing a softer, smoother texture and slightly richer taste. Paccheri, tagliolini, gnocchi…their Pama Parsi pasta machine does not disappoint. Not only is the quality higher thanks to their choice of prime materials, but the flavour is out of the ordinary.

Tradition is also the mainstay of the deliciously indulgent dessert menu where favourites such as home-made tiramisu and that Tuscan staple Torta della Nonna, a rustic tart made with cream and pine nuts, take centre stage.

It’s not just the food that has put Mamalù on south west London’s culinary map. The restaurant’s knowledgeable in-house sommelier delights in suggesting the perfect wine pairing from a carefully curated list of Italian and French vintages.

Looking to bring something a little different to the London dining scene, Mamalù’s owners determined to put their own distinctive twist on the traditional Italian restaurant. 

Using quirky details like the unique tiles and patterns that adorn the interior, the result is a captivating fusion of modernity and nostalgia that captures the essence of a typical brasserie reimagined for the modern era. Tucked away from the bustle of the restaurant, Mamalù offers a private dining room that can accommodate up to 18 guests. Ideal for corporate or private lunches or dinners, bespoke menus can also be arranged.

In addition, the restaurant can cater for all types of external event; clients can choose from an array of signature dishes, including Mamalù’s raw bar selection.

Mamalù is open from Tuesday to Friday, 6pm-11pm and Saturday & Sunday, 12.30pm-3pm and 6pm-11.30pm.

Mamalu with its exquisite food, impeccable service, hospitable and friendly staff, excellent drinks selection, comfortable vibe offers discerning diners a dining experience to remember! Highly Recommended! 

ALSO READ: HAPPY SECOND BIRTHDAY HOKUS POKUS!

Categories
Lifestyle Lite Blogs London News

Benchmark in a Hair-Salon experience: The House of Keune by Bloom, London

House of Keune by Bloom represents a pinnacle of collaboration between Bloom Lifestyle salons and the esteemed 100-year-old brand, Keune. Nestled in the heart of Holborn, central London, their stunning flagship salon stands as a testament to the fusion of talent and expertise. Initially rooted in Scotland, Bloom has now spread its wings to London, bolstering Keune’s presence in the UK market. Situated within the cutting-edge headquarters alongside the Keune Academy, House of Keune by Bloom offers unparalleled guest care and a commitment to excellence. A feature by lifestyle columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

Bloom is built around a talented team of hair and beauty professionals across the UK.

Sheona Forrest. Director, Bloom Lifestyle said, “Bloom is located within the new state-of-the-art headquarters alongside the Keune Academy which educates its network of UK salons. Working with Keune is an amazing opportunity to extend the Bloom brand into the rest of the UK, beginning in the iconic London location of The House of Keune.”

JR Slane. Creative Director & Partner, Bloom Lifestyle went on to say that “I am so proud to be Creative Director and salon partner at the House of Keune by Bloom in Holborn, London. My extensive experience as a technical cutting specialist, educator and session stylist ensures I can help grow and develop our amazing Bloom team in London. I’m so excited to bring passion and knowledge of haircare to this iconic building, and can’t wait to welcome our guests..”

Discerning clients who are looking for this experience can book their complimentary consultation with a Bloom London colour specialist for expert professional advice. With hundreds of colour combinations Keune Color can give you the healthy, personalised colour that will resonate with a variety of different people and choices.

Whether you want a classic style, fashion-forward update or a reshape, those wanting to try them out can book a pre-appointment complimentary consultation with one of their talented hair styling team. In the heart of Holborn, London, The House of Keune by Bloom also offers timeless grooming, tailored to men with a full range of services – from haircuts and restyles to traditional shaves and hair styling.

All their men’s grooming services include a luxury shampoo experience with massage and hot towel. For styling they use 1922 by J.M. Keune – a collection of timeless grooming staples. By creating beauty sustainably, they encourage people to take care of themselves, of the environment in which they live and work, and of the things they love, their gorgeously displayed amazing line of products can be purchased at the salon for home use .

Whether you want a style overhaul or a quick trim, the House of Keune by Bloom not only looks gorgeous with its bright, modern and inviting interiors, it has top of the class staff, who prioritise attention to detail whether colour, cutting or styling hair. It’s not about cookie cutter looks here, the experts listen to what you want and execute it in the most flattering way.

The salon is also committed to sustainability with the programme Keune Cares, and only uses environmentally responsible haircare and colouring products.

For one-of-a-kind hair salon experience visit The House of Keune by Bloom. You can be assured of a warm welcome, a meaningful consultation where you will feel heard about your needs for your hair with attention to detail, a deluxe hairwash experience with inclining massage chairs so you feel fully relaxed, an efficient haircut and style or even a hair redesign for a new look with a hair colour too. They have a menu of hair treatments too for hair and even scalp. Chilled water or Prosecco or a hot drink too is offered to sip on while your hair is being pampered! Highly Recommended!

ALSO READ: Artistic and Delectable Botanical Afternoon Tea Experience: Marriott Park Lane, London

Categories
Food Lite Blogs Restaurant Reviews

Artistic and Delectable Botanical Afternoon Tea Experience: Marriott Park Lane, London

Botanical Afternoon Tea

The arrival of spring welcomes fresh blooms and a renewed Botanical Afternoon Tea menu at London Marriott Hotel Park Lane. Inspired by neighbouring Hyde Park, tasty finger sandwiches and delightful pastries adorn their delectable menu. A feature by FnB columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

The gorgeously array of treats arrives on a table by the window with spring sunshine outside. Featuring a delicate rose and raspberry cream choux swan, a light and refreshing garden pond cheesecake, a lemongrass and pistachio chocolate forest log and more treats await you when you book this afternoon tea experience. All to be enjoyed while sipping one of their carefully selected JING teas, bubbles or house cocktails. The afternoon tea is priced at £50 per person with a glass of bubbles. Free-flowing bubbles are also available upon request. 

As part of this experience their savouries include Prawn, asparagus, cherry tomato and dried olives in filo tart; BBQ confit duck, tomato and gem lettuce brioche bun; Spring vegetable and truffle egg mayo in charcoal basket; Beans coronation, peppers and hummus sandwich. They also have vegan/vegetarian/gluten-free options too.

Botanical Afternoon Tea

Next comes the scones selection which includes Home made plain scones to Homemade rose and hibiscus scones, served with Homemade jam and Cornish clotted cream. The pastries include Rose and raspberry cream choux pastry swan; The round pond coconut mango cheesecake; Lemongrass and pistachio chocolate forest log; Fruit and citrus custard tartlet. 

The presentation of this afternoon tea experience is top-notch, the pastries are like work of art! The service is attentive and impeccable; the vibe is leisurely, the decor and setting is comforting; they even have alcohol free champagne! This one-of-a-kind afternoon tea experience is available Friday-Sunday from 12:00pm to 4:00pm.

Meet Franky Fernandes, Executive Chef:

Originally from India, raised in the city of Pune in Maharashtra, Franky Fernandes is Executive Chef within luxury five-star boutique hotel, London Marriott Hotel Park Lane. 

Franky Fernandes, Executive Chef

With over 21 years of hospitality experience, Franky has played an integral role in the success of one of Mayfair’s most memorable and esteemed dining destinations. Franky’s love for culinary arts and passion for food started at a young age where he learnt from his grandfather – a chef in the armed forces. Inspired by his grandfather, Franky went on to chase a career in hospitality and graduated from the International Institute of Hotel Management in Pune. During his first year working in the industry, Franky gained invaluable experience at the Hyatt Regency Mumbai before relocating to London to pursue his passion for hospitality. 

Chef Franky has worked in a number of five-star, luxury properties in London including; InterContinental London Park Lane, JW Marriott Grosvenor House London, The Dorchester London, Hyatt Regency London – The Churchill; cooking a variety of cuisines, before residing as Executive Chef at London Marriott Hotel Park Lane.

His ethos is to create a memorable dining experience for all guests by using local, seasonal ingredients. This is illustrated through his menu development and innovation; spotlighting the marriage between Asian ingredients and western cooking techniques to delight guests and bring his passion to plate.

Franky is driven to inspire the next generation of culinary talent, regularly hosting inspirational career talks and cooking demonstrations at culinary colleges across London. He has  mentored a Springboard’s FutureChef competition participant who won the 2023 regional chef competition.

About Marriott Park Lane

Located in London’s most prestigious neighbourhoods, overlooking Hyde Park, London Marriott Hotel Park Lane is a luxury five-star boutique hotel, offering an elevated escape in the heart of Mayfair. The unique Grade-II listed building boasts 152 rooms, including 28 suites, Penhaligon’s amenities, The Club at Park Lane health club with an impressive 12.5 metre indoor heated pool, versatile events spaces and a relaxed British restaurant and bar, Lanes of London. With one of Europe’s most sought-after shopping destinations in striking distance, family- friendly attractions, alongside iconic landmarks within close proximity, the property is perched and poised for guests inclined to peruse, purchase, and play to their hearts content.

Categories
-Top News London News UK News

‘Shocking Increase’ in Extremist Activity: Sunak Raises Alarm

Rishi Sunak

UK’s democracy is being deliberately undermined, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has warned in his address to the Nation from outside 10 Downing Street.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak came out heavily against the rising cases of ‘extremism’ in the United Kingdom and warned that while people have the right to march and protest ‘peacefully’, they can’t call for violence and extremism.

The UK Prime Minister said that a “shocking increase” has been noticed in extremist disruption and criminality in the recent weeks and months, and what started as protests on streets, has descended into “intimidation, threats, and planned acts of violence.”

“Jewish children fearful to wear their school uniform lest it reveal their identity. Muslim women abused in the street for the actions of a terrorist group they have no connection with. Now our democracy itself is a target,” Sunak said in his address to the Nation from outside 10 Downing Street.

He acknowledged that immigrants from different spheres of the world have come and integrated in the country without giving up on their identities.

“You can be a practising Hindu and a proud Briton as I am. Or a devout Muslim and a patriotic citizen as so many are. Or a committed Jewish person and the heart of your local community…and all underpinned by the tolerance of our established, Christian church,” Sunak said.

“But I fear that our great achievement in building the world’s most successful multi-ethnic, multi faith democracy is being deliberately undermined,” he said.

Sunak said that since the October 7 attack on Israel by Hamas, many groups are trying to take advantage of the war to advance a divisive, hateful ideological agenda. Due to this, on many occasions, the UK streets were “hijacked” by “hostile groups.”

“Islamist extremists and far rights groups are spreading a poison, that poison is extremism,” he stated.

He further said that while people have the right to march and protest demanding protection fo civilian life, they can’t call for “violent Jihad”.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak makes a statement from Downing Street. Picture by Simon Dawson / No 10 Downing Street

“I respect that the police have a tough job in policing the protests we have seen and that they are operationally independent. But we must draw a line. Yes, you can march and protest with passion…You can demand the protection of civilian life…but no, you cannot call for violent Jihad,” Sunak said.

He also cited the order by Home Secretary James Cleverly that the foreign nationals who are in UK on visas, if “spew hate on protests or seek to intimidate people”, their right to stay in the country will be revoked.

“I want to speak directly to those who choose to continue to protest: Don’t let the extremists hijack your marches. You have a chance in the coming weeks to show that you can protest decently, peacefully and with empathy for your fellow citizens,” Sunak further said. (ANI)

ALSO READ: UK govt to step up lawmakers’ security