Tag: Restaurant Review

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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

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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.

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Food Lite Blogs Restaurant Reviews

Guillam Coffee House: Redefining the Coffee experience

There are not many things that come close to the joy that comes with a perfect cup of coffee. It’s more than just a beverage; it’s an experience, a moment of bliss in every sip. A feature by Columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

At the forefront of coffee revolution stands Guillam Coffee House, a brand committed to redefining the coffee experience. Their dedication to quality and innovation has set them apart in the industry, offering a coffee experience like no other. They say that their mission is to introduce customers to the world of single-origin coffees and speciality drinks, which presents a fascinating world of unique flavours.

Their coffees, sourced from a single geographical location, often a specific farm or region, offer a pure and unblended taste experience. The beauty of single-origin coffee lies in its ability to reflect the distinct characteristics of its terroir – the soil, climate, and altitude where it’s grown. This results in an array of flavours that are as diverse as they are delightful.

A single-origin coffee from Ethiopia might have floral and citrus notes, while one from Colombia could contain hints of caramel and nuts. This diversity not only provides a sensory journey for coffee enthusiasts but also tells a story of the place and people behind each bean. It’s a celebration of nature’s variety and the skilled cultivation by local farmers, who nurture and harvest these beans to bring out their best flavours.

In a cup of single-origin coffee, one doesn’t just taste a beverage; they experience a distinct part of the world, one sip at a time. Discerning coffee drinkers can discover and try new coffees each time you visit them, each time discovering new coffee profiles and flavours. Their menus are regularly updated to feature a diverse range of single-origin coffees, chocolates and speciality teas from all around the world, each with its own unique taste and provenance. It’s the perfect place to share the love for specialty drinks.

At Guillam, they take pride in ensuring that every cup of coffee they serve is of the highest quality.

Coffee is at the heart of everything they offer, and they are continually measuring, assessing, and monitoring the drinks they produce to ensure that they serve the best cup of coffee possible. The brand is redefining quality specialty drinks.

Each and every one of their coffee houses are intentionally designed differently to provide a unique coffee house experience whenever you enter.Their dedicated speciality coffee baristas are ready to help you discover new tastes in their offerings, including speciality coffee, chocolate drinks, and teas, guiding you in your experience at Guillam Coffee Houses.

All their coffee houses have different interiors and atmospheres, inspired by the local neighborhood. This allows you to have a unique and enriching experience every time you go to Guillam Coffee House in one of their four London locations. Highly Recommended!

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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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Food Maharashtra Restaurant Reviews

Saroj Sweets, Mumbai draws up a plan to add bakery products

65-year-old Mumbai-based reputed brand Saroj Sweets chooses to explore the bakery biz, Rahul Laud reports

Third-generation entrepreneur Tejaswini (Renuka) is the grand-daughter of Damodar Krishnaji Marathe one of the most respected businessmen, educationists and philanthropists who were the first to open a sweets shop in the Eastern suburbs of Mumbai at Chembur. She is also the daughter of Sheshnath and Manisha Marathe who has chosen to add to the Saroj Sweets kitty of dairy, sweets and savoury products diversified bakery and confectionery products.  Saroj Sweets is a brand named after Renuka’s grandmother and has been a household name in the Mumbai Chembur area for the past 65 years. Renuka adds, ”Saroj is a very precious name. There’s divinity, grace and abundance in the name.”

Honouring the tradition, values and ethics in business as laid down by Damodar Marathe, the brand despite several peer pressures and public demand does not have any franchisee and the residents of that area and nearby locations choose to stand in long queues for hours to get their favourite sweets, milk products and namkeens. Her parents struggle hard to retain brand quality, face distribution and delivery challenges, and cope with the huge growing demand. Seshnath is known in the sweets trade as ‘mithai ka doctor’ as the Marathes keep their entire establishment completely clean, raising the bar of hygiene standards in the sweets trade in addition to procuring the best quality ingredients and raw materials. A visit to the manufacturing, production and sale all-in-one building reveals clearly and demonstrates the fact that Saroj Sweets is like a sweets-making laboratory. 

Renuka is the sole heir today and she has found interest in baking products. Following her degree in management studies, Renuka is armed under her belt with a specialised course in baking from the Rahejas. Her full-fledged course in baking,  pastry making, confectionery and entrepreneurship at the European School of Pastry became a game changer for her. Culinary experts, renowned chefs and industry veterans Anil Rohira and Vikas Bagul became her mentors and teachers at the School and Renuka was chosen by the Chefs to bake and cater at the high-profile Ambani weddings.  

Renuka values her parents and grandfather’s contributions, and she is exploring all possibilities to strike a correct balance with her existing sweets business. Awaiting all legal paperwork, licences and market study she will jump fully into the business at an appropriate time.

Like her grandparents and parents who do food and sweets ‘’Sewa’’ for the underprivileged tribals, Renuka is steadfastly committed to teaching baking and entrepreneurship to the wives of Indian soldiers. As a volunteer, she travels to Jodhpur with the patriotic  NGO Aseem group led by Sarang  Gosavi to teach these soldiers’ wives.  

Like her parents, she is committed to her cause and business – both. This young 27-year-old entrepreneur is focused, planned and cherishes the values of ethics in business and is not in any rush or hurry. Like her brand Saroj Sweets she is here to stay.

ALSO READ: A Gastronomic Odyssey: Final Destination Restaurant, Noida

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Food Restaurant Reviews UK News

Chutney Ivy: Contemporary Indian Cuisine in Leicester, UK

Chutney Ivy boasts of a contemporary dining space where discerning diners can experience authentic Indian culinary magic located in the heart of Leicester’s Cultural Quarter. The restaurant is known for its attentive, friendly and quick service. Formerly a Michilen recommended restaurant they pride themselves on making their guests feel welcome. So if you’re looking for traditional Indian cuisine with a modern twist in Leicester, then Chutney Ivy is the place to visit. A feature by FnB columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International

Chutney Ivy are always on the ready if you decide to host any occasion party from anniversaries, weddings & birthday parties. Their upstairs restaurant and downstairs lounge bar are perfect venues to accommodate patrons and their guests for an unforgettable experience. 

When you visit Chutney Ivy for a meal you can expect all the things you love about Indian food – the aromatic spices, the diverse flavours and the colourful dishes – but taken a notch up and brought up to date with modern food trends like crispy duck samosas or salmon tikka massala.

The menu, which has been designed from years of research by chefs, is a real journey around the subcontinent, from Bengali and Goan to the traditional Muglai flavours of north India. With a selection of meat, fish and vegetarian dishes, every palate is catered for.

The restaurants pre/post theatre banquet is a sight to behold and its handy location just across the road from Curve theatre makes it the ideal stop when seeing a show.

At Chutney Ivy the restaurant staff like to create an atmosphere in which guests can relax and enjoy each others’ company. With their love for jazz and soulful music they invite talented singers and musicians to perform live on Friday & Saturday nights to not just entertain, but to fill the room with a calming atmosphere with beautiful music for all to enjoy.

At Chutney Ivy they believe in supporting local charities and help in raising money for some great causes in and around the city. For years they have hosted many charity events and parties in order to give local charities a platform in which to raise money and support for their specific cause.

Also, Chutney Ivy as a brand are keen believers in supporting local business’s around the city,  so each month their host their famous Curry Club networking event in which local business representatives are invited to the restaurant to socialise & network over a delicious meal. 

The spacious restaurant is the perfect place to hire for any occasion. From birthday parties to anniversaries, they can accommodate up to 120 guests and you have the whole space to yourself for as long as you need. 

Below the restaurant is their Chic & Unique, Lounge & Bar. Available to hire during restaurant opening hours so you can head down after a delicious meal to party into the night. With a luxurious bar and lounge seating you can entertain up to 120 guests.

Chutney Ivy has excellent food, great presentation, great taste, good portion sizes, freshly made with good quality ingredients- it is a Sophisticated and upscale Indian restaurant and events lounge, situated in the epicentre of the cultural quarter, Leicester; it has a buzz and great vibe along with reliable service. Chutney Ivy is a smart Indian restaurant serving traditional dishes alongside curry house classics.  Highly Recommended!

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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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Dubai Food Restaurant Reviews

Streetery: Authentic Pan-Asian Flavours in Dubai

Streetery brings together Thai, Chinese, Malaysian, and Singaporean cuisines in a lively food hall environment by the lake in the neighbourhood of Jumeirah Lakes Towers. Streetery’s menu is diverse and centred around three different concepts – Zen (Thai), Fat Aunt’s (curries, dim sum and build-your-own noodles) and Hing Kee (barbecue and grills). Nicky Ramchandani is the founder and owner of Streetery, and is the catalyst behind this Asian-focused hub. A feature by FnB Columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

Walk right about to the three food stalls and savour the sights and smells, pick your favourites, pay form the at cashier’s desk, and then just grab a seat anywhere in the hawker market inspired dining room inside and outside by the lake.

Their taste, seasoning and time-tested recipes are accessible, consistently good and straight up honest. If you have been and like us remember wandering through the bustling streets of Bangkok and chancing upon barbecued meat that blew your mind…or being invited to a Malaysian home to be served up a dizzying array of dishes cooked in the most aromatic spices…or fighting your way through “hole in the wall” spots in Hong Kong just to tuck in mind-blowingly good dim sum in a crowded space? What if these food memories that you’ve stashed in the recesses of your mind could be awakened in one spot? What if this spot was right at your doorstep and you could pop in whenever your cravings kicked in? That’s what this brand stands for, it’s your chance to experience this in Dubai! 

Food is brought to your table as and when it’s ready. It’s a true street food concept complete with thin wooden chopsticks and colourful plastic stools. Streetery’s food is inexpensive and tasty – probably the closest you get to the hawker stalls you find in the heart of Kuala Lumpur or Singapore without leaving Dubai neighbourhood.

Streetery is a quirky eatery with a great vibe. It is the perfect place to go on a relaxing date night or to hang out with friends. They have indoor & outdoor seating areas. Streetery Food Hall surely has lots of personality and flavour. 

Go over and check them out to unwind and indulge in straight up honest and comforting food from around the world, one that never fails to hit the spot! They have got it all right with delish taste, generous portion sizes, great presentation, attentive service and overall charming vibe. Highly Recommended!

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Food London News Restaurant Reviews

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!