The Barbican is one of Europe’s largest conference venues. With various rooms and event spaces with theatre style it’s the perfect venue for any large event.
Barbican Centre, Silk Street, London, EC2Y 8DS
Barbican Centre, London
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Room on the Broom
1 December 2024
The wonderful tale of the Room on the Broom is brought to life in London’s West End. It’s a witty take on Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s book, about a witch and her car. The clumsy witch drops things along her journey and picks up all sorts of guests along the way. The hitch-hikers include a friendly dog, a green bird and even a frog.
Neon Brush
7 August 2024
The Neon Brush sip and paint experience is a fun, unique way to get creative with friends in the heart of trendy, South Kensington. In the dimly lit room, the fluorescent paint shines brightly. The neon hues from the glowing artwork are both impressive and inspiring.
Dopamine Land
6 August 2024
Dopamine Land is a surreal, multisensory experience which will leave you feeling happy! There are a series of interactive rooms which take you away from reality, and evoke a multitude of emotions. It’s a chance for kids to run riot and do things that you would never allow them to do at home, and fill them with utter joy! It’s quite clever really.
Shrek the Musical, London
3 August 2024
This stage adaptation of the classic Dreamwork’s movie, Shrek the Musical is absolutely brilliant. It’s witty and charming and captivating for both adults and children. The sets are stunning, with both traditional sets merged with elaborate projections, bringing the fantastical story to life.
The Art of the Brick
30 July 2024
Nathan Sawaya has transformed ordinary, colourful Lego blocks into mind blowing, extraordinary sculptures. The Art of the Brick exhibition is currently showcased rather aptly on London’s Brick Lane. From the moment you step into the exhibition, you are immersed in a world where imagination knows no bounds. As a VIP guest you get to skip the queue, should there be any, and take home a poster of your favourite Lego exhibit.
Chaos Karts Dubai
26 July 2024
Ever imagined what it would be like to be in a game of Mario Kart? Now you can do just that, at Chaos Karts. Situated in the heart of Dubai, Chaos Karts offers a mind blowing, immersive racing experience. Augmented reality and virtual worlds collide. After a quick safety briefing, it’s time to hop into the kart. As the race begins, the track morphs into various landscapes, making each lap a unique, riveting experience. There are no barriers to navigate, just the projected courses, that change in an instant. You must dodge obstacles, collect power-ups, whilst jeopardising the race for the others, by ejecting virtual objects. It’s super fun for families, groups of thrill-seeking friends for a special birthday or celebration. It’s a perfect for team building corporate events too. Whilst the race is around twenty minutes, there’s also a lot of fun to be had playing retro video games, table tennis, and air hockey before and after the race. There’s even a cool cafe to enjoy treats too away from the blazing heat. It is recommended kids should be over 130cm or aged 9+. Our little man was absolutely thrilled with Chaos Karts and jumped out of his kart at the […]
The Gruffalo at the Lyric Theatre London
24 July 2024
The classic tale of the Gruffalo is brought to life at London’s Lyric Theatre. The humorous adaptation of Julia Donaldson’s much-loved book, is a wonderful treat for Gruffalo fans. Diehard little fans arrive eagerly, clutching their Gruffalo soft toys, with books in hand and wearing Gruffalo t-shirts. There’s a real buzz in the audience, almost in equal measure from both the children and parents. If like us, you have been reading this story almost every bedtime for the last 6 years, you won’t want to miss this spectacular performance.
The Tower Bridge Experience
2 July 2024
Did you know you can go inside the iconic Tower Bridge? Having stood back and admired the bridge many a time, we actually only very recently discovered you could go inside it. It seems to be London’s best kept secret, and it really is worth a visit. The impressive Tower Bridge has stood tall since 1894, and is a marvel of Victorian engineering. It’s just 206 steps up to to the top of the majestic towers, with a lift available if required.
Lux Life Global Wedding Awards 2024 Winner
11 June 2024
We are really thrilled to share some exciting news, as we approach our 10 year anniversary. Concierge Angel have been awarded “Most Trusted Wedding & Events Supplier Directory 2024” in the Global Wedding Awards 2024 hosted by LUXlife Magazine.
Bubble Planet Experience
10 June 2024
The immersive Bubble Planet Experience is an unforgettable, surreal adventure that's just so much fun! As a VIP guest, keep hold of your phone and leave all your belongings in the cloakroom so you can fully enjoy the experience. As you might imagine, there are bubbles literally everywhere. Room after room there are impressive interactive [...]
Recipe: Nutella Chocolate Chip Cupcakes
28 May 2024
If you are looking for the perfect chocolate chip cupcake recipe look no further.It’s moist and chocolatey and moreish. Coffee is the key ingredient to bringing out the chocolatey flavour in the cake without there being any taste of coffee.
Recipe: Fresh Cream Cake
15 April 2024
There's nothing better than a classic fresh cream cake, topped with fresh fruit for any celebration. This is recipe that has been adapted over the years and can be topped however you like. It's perfect for a light Victoria sponge cake or top with chocolate, fruit or a bit of both. This 2 layered cake [...]
Jurassic World The Exhibition
6 January 2023
When we heard about The Jurrasic World exhibition we couldn’t wait to check it out. Do you remember the first Jurassic Park movie? Did you sit back and watch in awe, imagining what it would be like to be there? With high expectations from the outset for the immersive experience, these were well and truly exceeded. From the moment you step onto the boat, towards the Jurassic islands, the adventure begins. You soon arrive at Jurrasic World, with enormous gates surrounded by lush trees. The first dinosaur you see stands tall and is rather impressive. There are baby dinosaurs that can be gently stroked. There’s fossils to be excavated and Dinosaur eggs to be marvelled over. Over in the laboratory there is even an opportunity to touch dinosaur poo, if you are that way inclined. Yes it was just a squishy and disgusting as you might expect. There are opportunities to see dinosaurs in training, and dinosaur’s devouring their dinner. These areas are dark and there’s a sense of fear from the unknown. With sudden movements of the dinosaurs in the shadows, it leaves you on edge. You will find yourself running when the sirens go from a dinosaur that […]
Windsor Illuminated
10 December 2022
Windsor Illuminated sees Savill Garden beautifully lit up by night. It is so magical, and not to be missed. The music is regal as you approach a twinkly castle of lights. As you walk through the illuminated woodland each area has it’s own unique charm. The fairy trail was one of our favourites and the little one was mesmerised by the tiny little fairies, floating in bubbles. As the paths wind round, you are quickly immersed into flashing lights and there is a noticable change in tempo.With a skip in our step, we arrived at the Fairy disco. With “Dancing Queen” blaring, sparkling disco balls, smoke effects, and fairies flying, it really was special. As we got deeper into the woods, there were wonderful projections of animals to be marvelled over. The projections into the water fountains were absolutely stunning. With reindeers and Santa Claus amongst the fantastic projections, we loved standing back to watch this over the water in Windsor Great Park. Walking through the tunnel of flashing lights was surreal. The dazzling lights spiral and circle around you as you walk through. One of the best things about winter walks is the heartwarming food. We stopped to toast marshmallows and […]
Christmas at Waddesdon Manor
26 November 2022
The beautiful 19th Century Waddesdon Manor is all lit up for it’s 20th year this Christmas. The much-loved festive extravaganza in Buckinghamshire, returns with magical lights and music, the gardens aglow. Admire all the sparkling decorations and themed displays inside the house. Step inside a Waddesdon-inspired wonderland and see the magnificent setting of the Red Drawing Room, Dining Room and Conservatory sumptuously decorated. From famous portraits to beautiful porcelain, festive decorations will take inspiration from the Manor’s many treasures, and, in the Dining Room, a newly commissioned peacock sculpture by renowned paper artist Andy Singleton will create an additional sense of wonder. Along the route, a series of light installations reflecting Waddesdon’s outdoor displays—including suspended butterfly lights and a corridor of illuminated clouds—link the indoors and outdoors together and bring a touch of Winter Light magic to the Manor at the most wonderful time of the year. Outside, Waddesdon’s spectacular landscape and magnificent trees are brought to life with a kaleidoscope of colour, lights and music as the longest-ever illuminated light trail fills the grounds. This year’s displays feature mesmerising new light installations alongside some seasonal favourites. As twilight falls, highlights include the spectacle of the Manor’s façade illuminated with dancing lights set […]
Frameless London
26 November 2022
Frameless, London redefines art in the most unimaginable way. It exceeded all expectations and was a truly mind blowing experience. Gone are the days of dragging bored kids around an art gallery. Instead kids can be heard pleading with parents to stay a bit longer at this immersive, multi dimensional experience. It’s an unforgettable experience for the whole family. People can be seen appreciating the art in their own unique ways ways. Some people sat in a trance like state, others stood back, gazing up in awe. Others were lying down, caught up in the moment. Whilst children could be seen dancing through the digital art, to the sound of the music, it was clear every single person visiting was truly mesmerised. Frameless is like stepping into what one would imagine Vincent’s Van Gogh’s dreams would have looked like. With swirls of paint dancing around the walls, you almost find yourself feeling dizzy at times. Look up, look down, and to the side and you are completely surrounded by dazzling displays. Frameless is a multi-sensory experience where traditional art has been brought to life. The birds are flying off of the paintings, there’s time in motion with Salvador Dali’s most famous piece […]
The Enchanted Woodland at Syon Park
15 November 2022
The historic Syon Park House and Gardens is illuminated for the much anticipated, annual Enchanted Woodland. It’s become one our favourite local, illuminated trails, as it marks the beginning of the festive season. We lucked out with dry and mild weather this year, whilst we wandered through the mile long light trail. As one walks through the glittery curtain, a fog appears, and as your eyes readjust, there’s a pretty hue of colours and twinkly lights bringing the woodland to life.The lights reflecting over the water are magnificent. The little one was so excited, and enjoyed dancing to the music in the woods, and in the shadows and in the lights of the disco balls. The displays are unique and quirky, interspersed with some familiar favourites from previous years. A family favourite was jumping up to catch balls of smoke being catapulted across the woods. Running back and forth over the piano of lights provided great entertainment for our excitable bunch. Syon House is brought to life with the light projections and powerful synchronised music. The magnificent conservatory is illuminated with changing colours with laser beaming into the sky. The sound of music fills the Conservatory, and there’s plenty of […]
Go Boat, Kingston
6 November 2022
The October half term holidays found us yearning for some fun, local adventure. Fortunately we were blessed with the most glorious weather. It was unexpectedly bright, and warm so we decided to try out a Go Boat. Go Boat, Kingston offer electric, self drive boats, and it’s great for any celebration. It comfortably seats up to a group of eight people. The central table is perfect for a picnic or for cutting a cake. The Go Boat starts from just below Kingston Bridge. After a quick 2 minute tutorial on driving the boat and navigating the river by the friendly staff, we were off. How hard could it possibly be? Steer the opposite direction to the way you want to go. It seemed quite straight forward really. Armed with a map, detailing the local area, the staff helpfully showed us the route, and wrote down our timings to turn around, in order to get back on time. Just like that, we were ready for the adventure along the River Thames, towards Hampton Court Palace. The boat has life jackets for children and for anyone aboard who would like to wear one. Fortunately we had sunshine for our 2 hour adventure, but the boat […]
The Gunpowder Plot
3 November 2022
‘Remember, remember the fifth of November, gunpowder, treason and plot.’ Experience The Gunpowder Plot immersive this autumn for an experience that will never be forgot. It’s one that is not to be missed. If you’re looking for a slice of history as bonfire night approaches, you can do no better than to visit London’s biggest new attraction – currently running at Tower Vaults at the Tower of London, created by multi-award winning Layered Reality and Historic Royal Palaces. This multi-sensory adventure opened earlier this year to rave reviews and is written by Olivier nominee Danny Robins with Creative Direction, story and experiences by stage director and multi-BAFTA award-nominated games performance director Hannah Price. 1605. The fuse of rebellion is lit. The peace of the nation balances on a knife edge. Who will you trust? The Gunpowder Plot mixes both live actors and digital stars in a multi-sensory theatrical adventure; leading Virtual Reality experts Figment Productions provide the magic that allows the actor’s images and movements to be motion captured and rendered “live” in the virtual world. Audiences can interact with Guy Fawkes, played by Harry Potter’s Tom Felton, inside Virtual Reality, as they infiltrate the plotter’s inner circle and learn of the conspiracy against the Houses […]
Halloween Party
31 October 2022
Kid’s love a Halloween party. Setting up a party table is always fun. This year we played Spooky Bingo, Spider run, and the children crafted a skeleton each. The party blowers kept the kids amused between spooky tattoos and pulling ghoulish crackers. We loved setting up the party table, with a spider web runner topped with pumpkin and spider plates and bowls and sprinkling of spiders. Sending the kid’s home with their crafted creations and a party bag, was a crowd pleaser. How did you celebrate Halloween this year?
JORDAN GRAY – IS IT A BIRD?
20 October 2022
Jordan Gray announces West End Date after two-week sell-out run at Soho Theatre From Edinburgh Fringe to The London Palladium in just eight weeks! London Palladium Friday 28th Oct 2022 “Jordan Gray might be the next stage of human evolution. A gorgeous, accomplished and deeply funny hour of comedy combining Gray’s musical talents with nuanced, creative stand-up” The Guardian ★★★★★ “Megawatt charisma … Is it a bird, is it a plane? No, it’s the sound of a star taking flight” Telegraph ★★★★★ “One of the stand-out shows of the Fringe… This hilarious, bold show will change lives.” Independent★★★★★ “This [show] is one of the flat-out funniest: flippant yet heartfelt, self-aggrandising yet self-mocking” Times ★★★★ “Bona-fide star power… one of the most entertaining shows at the 2022 Edinburgh Fringe this year” Evening Standard ★★★★ We can’t wait to see Jordan Gray in London. After 10 years in the music biz (and a memorable run on The Voice), Jordan Gray took her brand-new show “Is it a Bird” to the Edinburgh Fringe this August. To call her show a runaway hit, does not do justice to the enormous buzz the show created. Suddenly Jordan is one of the UK’s most exciting and celebrated comics. And for good reason. Her new show Is […]
Afternoon Tea at The Guardsman Hotel
25 July 2022
Afternoon tea is a time honoured British tradition that's always a lovely way to mark a special celebration. The decadent afternoon tea at The Guardsman is perfect for any occasion. The Guardsman Hotel is a discreet, luxury, boutique five star hotel tucked away, with a prime location, just a short walk from Buckingham Palace and St Jame's [...]
Recipe: Lemon Drizzle Cake
21 July 2022
If you like lemon drizzle cake you have to try this recipe. It's light, fluffy, moist and tangy and it turns out perfect every time. It tastes great without the glaze, however without it can look quite ordinary. So it depends what the occasion is. If it's for a celebration the glaze helps bring it [...]
Unique Gifts at The Natural History Museum Shop
17 July 2022
When you are looking for a gift that’s unique and meaningful to mark a special occasion, where do you go? One of our favourite places to buy unique gifts, is a museum gift shop. The Natural History Museum shop is definitely one of our favourites. There are interesting and thought provoking gifts for all ages. [...]
Recipe: Gingerbread Cookies
2 December 2021
Gingerbread cookies recipe.
Afternoon Tea at The Langham London
1 September 2021
The Langham is an iconic five star property, located in a prime location in the heart of the London. It holds fond memories for us, as we last visited during a staycation for on our first wedding anniversary. We have been wanting to enjoy the afternoon tea here for absolutely ages. Years in fact. We first actually booked it in 2019 to celebrate our 9th wedding anniversary. Unfortunately we had to cancel because of flu. We then re booked a visit for March 2020 and you all know what happened then. The covid-19 lockdown scuppered that plan. Little did we know the next time we would attempt to book in, our childcare had covid. On our fourth attempt we finally made it to celebrate our 11th wedding anniversary. Expectations were high and the much anticipated visit, was just as wonderful as we had hoped. The signature gorgeous perfume that diffuses through the hotel, takes us back to our previous stay and emanates luxury. Given they offer a children’s afternoon tea we thought it would be acceptable to take our little one along for a fine dining experience. The staff were amazingly attentive to him and made him feel so special […]
Recipe: Lindt Chocolate Cupcakes
10 January 2021
We did this recipe for a festive Christmas afternoon tea with a simple snowflake icing. We hope you enjoy making this recipe. Please do let us know how you get on with it.
Pandemic Halloween Party
31 October 2020
Halloween parties during a pandemic are a bit strange. Trying to navigate the restrictions, and the awful weather meant that we ended up choosing our favourite six people and hosted them at a days notice in the freezing cold in the garden. Who would’ve imagined braving the cold for the sake of a Halloween party, but actually it was the most memorable party we have ever had. Having spent so much of the year under strict Covid restrictions it is no wonder we felt the need to overcompensate and have a Halloween party. Having three toddlers in the garden with mummies was so much fun. Keeping a safe 2 meters away from each other at all times, no one was allowed to enter the house for a toilet break. That was the law. But where there’s a will there’s away. Despite it drizzling five minutes before the guests were meant to arrive, the gazeebo went up in a crazy last minute frenzy. 2 year olds are the best guests. They have absolutely no expectations and are easily impressed. Starting with a tatto each we moved onto Halloween arts and crafts. Glue dots and pre cut facial features to stick on pre […]
Lightopia
16 February 2020
Lightopia makes its London debut at the stunning Chiswick House and Gardens until March 1st. Visitors become Lightopians and explore the interactive and immersive city of light and stories. The handmade, silk installations combine ancient techniques of Chinese lantern making with modern technology to create a magical new world, with the theme for this year’s inaugural [...]
Peppa Pig- My First Concert
3 February 2020
“Bong Bing Boo, Bing Bong Bing, Bing Bong, Bingly Bungly Boo.” We we start our day singing along to Peppa Pig. Meal times are a careful negotiation of sharing one spoon for Peppa and one spoon for baby. Of course nap time is not complete without Peppa and George getting into the cot first. Muddy puddles are apparently no longer things to avoid- out little man runs straight for them shouting “muddy cuddles.” Peppa Pig has celebrity status in our house. So imagine how excited we were, when we heard Peppa Pig is coming to town. Peppa Pig – My First Concert is a fun and interactive introduction to a live orchestra that will take Peppa Pig fans on a magical musical journey when it heads on tour in the UK from February to May 2020. This unmissable production is based on Entertainment One’s popular animated television series and gives children a chance to experience their first concert in a way that is truly meaningful to them. Specially designed for the youngest audience members, this allows them, together with Peppa, to discover an orchestra for the first time. Children and their families can sing and dance along with […]
Santa’s Grotto at Chessington Garden Centre
20 December 2019
There’s a wonderful sense of nostalgia at Christmas time which makes it our favourite time of year. There’s obviously a desire to create even more magical memories every year, especially for our baby. This year we were so excited to visit Chessington Garden Centre’s Santa’s Grotto with our little one. There’s a really jolly feel from the moment you enter, with cuddly snowmen singing, and dancing elves to greet you. Promptly ushered into the Creation Room by Elves, the journey through the Grotto begins.The kids get to fill a bauble with their Christmas wish and endless sparkly confetti. It was a lovely activity which seemed to be perfect for all ages groups. It seemed to be an absolute favourite for our 18 month old. He genuinely didn’t want to leave. Give a baby a room full of endless glitter and it’s no wonder really! After a bit of coaxing we managed to get him out, but we couldn’t convinvce him to close his baubel. So he sprinkled a trail of magical sparkle with every step, leaving a trail through the grotto. The displays at Chessington Garden Centre are so phenomenal. It just leaves you feeling happy as you walk through hearing […]
Syon Park’s Enchanted Woodland
21 November 2019
Syon Park House and Garden’s annual Enchanted Woodland is back, and it is just as magical as it is every year. In it’s fourteenth year, it’s becoming our annual tradition to explore the beautifully illuminated trail, which marks the start of the run up to Christmas. Whilst most winter nights we’d rather be snuggled up indoors, we are always excited to embrace the crisp, cold evening, for the twinkly lights and music, that bring the woodland to life. There are numerous glistening light installations, including sparkly disco balls, flickering candle lights, with tiny rabbits in tipis amongst the quirky displays. The pyrotechnics in the iconic Great Conservatory are rather amazing. There are bubbles floating around, that burst leaving a trail of smoke in the air. It’s a lovely evening for the whole family to enjoy. There are plenty of appetising food trucks this year to make a night out of it too. The trail through the beautiful grounds of Syon Park is illuminated for the next few weekends only until 1st December, so be sure to check it out. http://www.enchantedwoodland.com/ *Concierge Angel were complementary guests however all views remained unbiased.
Chambers Immersive Dining Experience
23 August 2019
Gingerline’s legendary, multi-dimensional dining adventure is back. Formerly known as The Chambers of Flavour, Chambers is the fourth adventure through the multiverse, combining culinary creations with madcap storytelling. Ever-popular and always unexpected, each of the previous chapters has combined art, performance, food, drink and design, transporting diners beyond their wildest dreams into magically imaginative alternative realities. It’s all rather top secret, however if you are adventurous and hungry be sure to check it out. There are some surreal moments, which are both weird and wonderful, in this latest adventure. But it’s all hush hush so we can’t really tell you much. You have to just expect the unexpected and that’s really all part of the charm. Taking place in a hidden Hoxton location, intrepid diners only receive a text message with directions on the day of the adventure. The vague directions of left turns and right turns, it’s a wonder we made it on time. On arrival, we entered the gastronomic world of Chambers_ to join forces with a rag-tag crew of culinary cartographers. It’s sure to keep you on your toes (and taste buds), for beyond each portal sinister forces could well be at play. You work as a team […]
Alice in Wonderland Themed Tea Party
14 July 2019
Alice in Wonderland has to be our all time favourite theme for a memorable celebration. Its whimsical and ideal for a wedding, birthday party or even a baby shower. We have some simple ideas to put on a magical Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. Create a table that will mesmerise and immerse your guests. Coloured papers straws in old fashioned, glass milk bottles are a nice way to serve a fruit punch to guests. Add little labels with “Drink Me” or use little chalk boards. Detailing the bottles with handcrafted butterflies is just a lovely addition to a garden party. Talking Tables have a gorgeous collection of Truly Alice plates, platters, detailed napkins and cute tea cups and saucers and adorable mini cake dome stands. The range has a floral, and sophisticated vintage look and is ever so pretty. Amongst cake stands for the food, the table requires dressing with an assortment of props. Our favourite has to be the miniature, purple door with fairy dust from The Magic Door Store. This is a charming, adorable, detailed fairy door which adds a beautiful touch to the table. For a child this will be a door they can keep in their room and always remember their magical party, and […]
The London Secret Garden
10 July 2019
Now the sun is finally here, fancy a night out on the beach in London? Well now you can kick back, and lie on a sunbed and catch some rays of sunshine, in the lovely courtyard at the Crowne Plaza Kensington. It feels slightly surreal, as you pop on some flip flops and walk through the soft golden sand, and grab a lounger in the shadow of St Stephen’s Church. Surrounded by sand, surfboards, and sipping cocktails it almost feels like being on holiday. Nibbling on the delicious pan asian food from Umami, whilst lying on a sun lounger leaves you feeling like you have been transported to a beach in the far east. The pad thai was just divine and the little bursts of citrus dressing squirted on by syringe to the summer rolls was a lovely touch. It’s a relaxing haven in the heart of a busy city, we didn’t want to leave. The service is attentive and the blankets brought out as the sun set was perfect to keep us cosy. We are still in England after all. The lush secret garden also has five air conditioned igloo style pods, seating up to ten people. These are […]
The DIY Cake Smash
7 July 2019
Making a baby’s first birthday magical and memorable is all any parent wants. The first birthday is momentous for the baby, but a victory celebration for the parents surviving the first year of parenthood. Apparently a cake smash is the perfect way to capture lovely memories of your baby on their birthday. So having done [...]
The Grand Expedition
14 April 2019
What can we say about Gingerline’s “The Grand Expedition?” Not a lot actually because we have been sworn to secrecy. And that’s part of the charm. It’s a fantastically fun evening that takes you to dizzying heights. The Grand Expedition is an unforgettable, once in a lifetime dining experience to share with your most adventurous friends as you explore the future as aeronauts. Taking place at a top secret location on the Victoria line, revellers will receive a text message with directions to the address on the day of their adventure. It’s dance, multimedia meets supper club, and billed as a “floating, feeding, falling dream.” Featuring five interactive courses paired with eccentric performance and storytelling. It’s a unique experience that would be great to mark any celebration. Book your tickets now for The Grand Expedition. *Disclaimer: Concierge Angel were complementary guests of the Gingerline, however all reviews are unbiased. Images by Gingerline.
The Enchanted Woodland at Syon Park
16 November 2018
It’s that time of year again when Syon Park is illuminated, showcasing its thirteenth year of the Enchanted Woodland. As the evenings are getting colder it’s definitely worth wrapping up warm to enjoy the magical experience. The mile long route passes through the historic arboretum surrounding Syon House, the London home of the Duke of [...]
James Cochran
30 April 2018
Nestled in Liverpool Street, the James Cochran restaurant provides the perfect spot for a memorable dinner in the heart of busy London. When you first enter, you encounter the bar area filled with young professionals eager to unwind after a hard days work, and the James Cochran restaurant provides the perfect place to do so. The staff are friendly and inviting, whilst the atmosphere is relaxed. The restaurant is filled with pictures relating to James’ past. The dining area and bar are one continuous space, allowing for the lively atmosphere to pass through without disturbing the diners. James Cochran formerly worked at the renowned two Michelin star restaurant, The Ledbury. This certainly comes through in his dishes. The seven course tasting menu provides a feast of flavours, many of which are throwbacks to the chef’s heritage and roots. An unusual fusion of Scottish and Jamaican influences prepared from fresh British produce, with menus changing daily. The dishes are prepared meticulously and are as much a feast for the eyes as the palate. There are some unusual flavour combinations, including strong Asian-British fusion flavours such as the pan fried gnocchi with pickled shimeji and even Cornish cod bathed in a lemongrass and […]
Stecca- Italian Fine Dining in Chelsea
11 December 2017
Its always exciting when there’s a new restaurant in town. Stecca opened just a few months ago, and is a lovely fine dining Italian restaurant in the heart of Chelsea. Whilst a Monday evening won’t necessarily be a night for celebrity spotting, it’s definitely buzzing with approving local Italians. Award winning chef Stefano Stecca is serving up authentic Italian cuisine inspired by his hometown Rimini in Emilia Romagna, without a pizza in sight. Service is friendly and attentive, with a generous basket of rustic basket of bread arriving promptly just as we sat down to savour over the menu. Aubergines are clearly best enjoyed doused in a tomato sauce and topped with layers of cheese as in the starter of Aubergine Parmigiana. The grilled Calamari, served on a bed of rocket with sweet chilli was delightfully fresh and delicious. The creamy Burrata, topped avocado and Sicilian Tomato and was simple, yet perfect. The Black Truffle Risotto main course was rich and creamy and aromatic with scattered shavings of truffle. The classic Bolognese Ragu Tagliatelle was cooked to perfection, with handmade fresh egg pasta, with a rich meaty sauce. Spoilt for choice for dessert, the Crema Mascarpone and Sicilian Cannoli came […]
Flip Out
31 August 2017
Flip Out trampoline parks boast some of the largest trampolines in the U.K and is flipping awesome. As soon as you enter the huge arena, there’s an overwhelming number of neon trampolines. There’s an unmistakable sound of excitable children and adults jumping up and down. Starting at the beginning is best to get warmed up, because as as you delve in deeper, and discover the advanced areas, with high towers to jump on and off; this area is for adults only! Until you actually climb the towers, you don’t fully appreciate how scary it is jumping from such heights. Flip out invites you to conquer your fears and explore your daring side. Heading out of the adult only area, there are a pair of trampolines that see you diving into a giant pool filled with spongey cubes. This was an absolute blast. It doesn’t get better than this. Climbing out of the pool was a bit of a struggle but it’s definitely worth it and we couldn’t resist jumping right back right in again. Or rather falling back in at the gladiator arena after a duel. Once you are well acquainted and warmed up, there is a competitive, timed ninja warrior course, to test your ninja […]
A night at The Trading House
11 August 2017
Behind a rather ordinary façade, inside The Trading House, it’s unexpectedly quirky. The restaurant is rather intriguing, stylish and unique. The dark wood panelled room is ornate, adorned with the most beautiful lights and interesting murials on the wall, and a variety of stuffed animals. The scene set is that of exotic trade and travel and leaves one expecatant of an interesting culinary journey. Whilst there’s a traditional feel to the restaurant there is modern vibe, with lovely live music, which set the tone for the evening. As the night went on the DJ took over and played some great classics, and the restaurant and bar were buzzing with city folk. Whilst muddling through the menu, we nibbled on the chipolata and olives which arrived promptly. The refreshing peach and ginger mojito was the perfect choice for a cool, summery drink. The menu is an interesting assortment of hearty, comfort food from across the globe. Starters were our favourite, especially the crusty roll stuffed bursting with a hot, creamy, cheesy truffle mushroom centre. The Calamari served with a charred lemon was light and crispy and cooked to perfection. The pulled pork burger topped with jalapenos was packed full of juiciness and spiciness. The Trading House is famous for their hanging kebabs so we had to try it out.The […]
A Retreat at the New Hilltop Reserves at the Isle of Eriska
14 July 2017
As you arrive over the clickety clackety bridge, to the impressive private island of Isle of Eriska, nothing can prepare you for what awaits. Passing through woodlands, the “Relais Chateux” property of Eriska, is a charming building set amongst 300 acres. It’s located close to a private air field if you’re lucky enough to own a private jet. For most its a picturesque three hour scenic drive through Loch Lomond from Edinburgh. Eriska boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant, a nine-hole golf course, the Stables Spa, a casual Deck Restaurant and even a private beach as well lots of lovely nature trails. The Isle of Eriska is truly magnificent. The main house is welcoming and homely, with a quintessentially British charm, and roaring fires, even in the midst of the unpredictable Scottish Summer. In contrast, the new Hilltops are really modern, beautifully appointed and immaculate. It’s a nice feeling being the first to stay in the Hilltop Reserves. They have a Scandinavian hygee feel to them. They are furnished luxuriously, with everything being quite sleek, stylish and rather plush. The lodges have been designed with attention to detail. The kitchen is well stocked with Joseph and Joseph accessories and there’s even some fresh milk waiting in the fridge. It’s […]
Mastering Bread Making with Ma Baker
28 June 2017
Coming up with ideas for a unique gift can be quite challenging. However to gift an experience is sure to be more memorable than any other present. A day in the kitchen, even for the culinary inept, is a welcome gift. Who doesn’t love the smell of fresh bread? Award winning, Ma Baker has some amazing bread making courses. Bread Angel, Liz Wilson welcomes you into her Fulham kitchen and shares her priceless bread secrets, learnt from years of experience, mastering bread. Her passion and enthusiasm are infectious and you are sure to leave with a new found respect for bread. And more importantly a huge bag full of fresh sour dough treats. Ma Baker’s class for sour dough provides the perfect opportunity to demystify sour dough making, in an intimate group of four. Sour dough is absolutely delicious, but if you pick up a recipe book, it can seem rather daunting to try and make it. Ma Baker, Liz, simplifies the process in a little over six hours, ensuring you learn essential kneading, folding, proving and shaping techniques. An appreciation emerges for gluten formation, and all the lovely bubbles that appear as the yeast starts working. The wealth of knowledge and tips, Ma Baker shares are so helpful. Who knew that all the […]
A Scenic Flight over Dubai with Seawings
19 June 2017
Dubai is a city that has clearly been designed to be appreciated from above. You really can’t say you have seen Dubai until you have seen it from the sky. Seawings offer a unique experience to fly over Dubai and enjoy sensational, aerial views over the city. We couldn’t quite contain our excitement for this trip, as it’s been on our bucket list for a long while. The scenic seaplane journey starts from Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club. It’s a plush plane that glides through the water and before you know it you’re up in the sky. The seaplane has comfortable leather seats and is fully air conditioned, with complementary bottles of water provided for the journey. As the seaplane circles over Dubai, one can quickly spot the iconic buildings that make up the Dubai skyline. The Arabian Gulf shimmers in the sun and the views are utterly breath taking. Dubai is totally magnificent anyway, but the perspective from Seawings is just spectacular. The Burj Khalifa stands proud in downtown Dubai, as the tallest building in the world. The scenes are simply awe inspiring. The man made island in the sea, The Palm is to be marvelled over. The Palm is so perfectly formed, and the unmistakable silhouette of the […]
The Allure of Enigma at Palazzo Versace Dubai
5 June 2017
The five star Palazzo Versace Dubai is utterly stylish and sophisticated. The Palazzo Versace boasts some charming, fine dining restaurants including Vanita’s and Enigma. As the name suggests there’s an element of mystery to Enigma, that’s rather alluring. A dining concept that presents the “Inside Story” with award winning chefs, creating transient, unique menus for limited periods of time. At present, acclaimed Chef Yunus Emre Aydin takes centre stage, with a multi-sensory culinary journey, celebrating Turkish cuisine. It’s a rather modern take on traditional Turkish cuisine. The restaurant is absolutely beautiful and the elegant décor is perfectly complimented by the plush Versace cushions and the gentle glow from candle light. Starting with a refreshing lemongrass drink with ginger tea, this felt like a drink for a spa, and set the tone for the relaxed evening ahead. The warm breads arrived straight from the oven and were light and fluffy and delicious when dipped in the refined pomegranate and tomato salsa. The starter Shakshuka, was an impressive combination of eggplant cream, tomato espuma and red pepper marmalade served in rolls of vegetables, on a sleek white stone. The dishes just make you smile, as they have clearly been arranged with precision and finesse, adorned with micro herbs and edible flowers. The Aegean Shrimp, were marinated in mandarin and served with lemon […]
A Night at the Opera at TWID
24 May 2017
Constantly in search of the next novel experience in London, we just found the first of its kind at TWID, in Battersea.”That’s What I do,” is a fun, dining experience that sees you immersed in live opera. Behind the facade of a converted pub, a peek through the curtains, and you are transported into what appears to be an almost, traditional theatre. There’s something rather exciting about going up the small set of stairs to the private opera boxes. There are interesting stone statues scattered around the restaurant, and clearly a lot of thought has gone into the décor, at first glance. By light of day, the décor is a bit rough around the edges, but as night falls it’s easier to look past the chipboard ceiling and appreciate the romantic booths, and the atmosphere that’s been created. The menu has a nice selection of small plates to choose from, that are ideal to share. They are actually far from small, and rather substantial dishes, and probably no more than five would suffice for two. There’s a call bell on the table, which is genius- if only every restaurant had this. It allows the experience to be private and intimate whilst maintaining attentive service. Sipping on a mojito is always the best way to start the evening. Following the a […]
Yuu Kitchen
22 May 2017
Yuu Kitchen is a rather funky, modern East London joint. The decor is uber cool, with Manga style art on the walls, and bird cages.hanging overhead. Inspired by the fusion of flavours of South-East Asia and the Pacific Rim, the menu is mouth watering. Sitting at the bar overlooking the chefs table is great, as you can watch the theatrics of the food being flame cooked on the big green egg BBQs. How have we not tried Bubble tea before? It’s brilliant! The lemon, iced green tea have pearls that burst in your mouth to release a juice that tantalises the taste buds. The Vietnamese vegetarian Ssam is a lettuce wrapped deep fried spring roll packed full of corn, mushrooms and noodles, with a sweet chilli sauce. The crunch from the spring roll and the texture of the crisp lettuce makes it ever so pleasing to the palate. The sweet and sticky eggplant with wok fried white miso glaze, crunchy shallots and sesame is served piping hot. And when I say hot, I mean scorching hot! After letting it cool down, it’s crisp on the outside and just melts in the mouth. The grilled cauliflower is transformed by sweetcorn, jalepeño dressing, shallots, garlic […]
Sparkling Spa Day at Coworth Park
19 May 2017
The best gift for a birthday has to be a spa day. Not only is it a memorable way to mark a birthday for the one celebrating, but by joining them it’s a real treat for you too. A day at the five star, Coworth Park Hotel in Ascot is the best place to be pampered, as one of our favourite spas in England. As part of the Dorchester Collection the attention to detail is what makes this spa stand out.Spa days at Coworth Park Hotel are a luxurious retreat, set amongst beautifully landscaped, lush countryside. And better still, the tranquil haven is only a 45 minute drive from London, yet feels like worlds apart. A sparkling spa day at Coworth Park Hotel is ideal for pure indulgence and relaxation. The changing rooms are well equipped with a safe, robes and slippers to get comfortable for the day. The Spatisserie has huge windows overlooking the manicured lawns, and is beautifully bright and airy. The service is swift and the delicious homemade blueberry muffins and fresh juice are the perfect start to the day. As a special surprise for a celebration, came a lovely birthday cake too. The pool is lined by purple quartz rocks and surrounded by loungers. The whole spa seems to […]
Michelin Star Dining at Galvin At Windows
18 May 2017
Michelin starred restaurant, Galvin at Windows reaches gastronomic heights on the 28th floor of the Hilton Park Lane. The views of London are exceptional, and the large windows allow the restaurant to glow as the sun beams in. The décor is minimalist and rather modern, stylish and sophisticated. There are postcards on the table which the restaurant will post for you anywhere in the world. This is such a lovely, unique idea and feels quite nostalgic. The muddled minty mojitos are refreshing and can be enjoyed at the bar or at the table. The smell of the freshly baked bread is just dreamy, and there’s a nice selection to tear and share. It’s always such a pleasure when the first course arrives, and it affirms all the accolades of a restaurant. Who said salads are boring? The fruity salad of goat’s cheese, beetroot, orange, pistachio and honey was a rainbow of colours. Wonderfully packed full of flavour, each component complimented the other perfectly. The main course of poached corn fed chicken breast, crispy leg, bois bourdon and hazelnut was slightly underwhelming in comparison as it seemed simplistic in it’s presentation and execution. Although admittedly, it did taste absolutely delicious. The Valrhona chocolate fondant was cooked perfectly, with a centre that […]
Sunday Midnight Brunch at Cavalli Club Dubai
12 May 2017
The Cavalli Club has to be one of the trendiest places on the Dubai night life scene. Tucked away at the back of The Fairmont, it’s all glitz and glam, as one would expect. There’s a red carpet entrance and velvet walls. With large crystal chandeliers suspended and plush leopard print seating it’s all very hip. The dress code is cocktail dresses and high heels and smart evening wear for the gents. Dubai is renowned for Sunday Brunch however if you are a sun worshipper this can prove difficult. So when we heard that Cavalli Club do a Sunday Midnight Brunch with cabaret this sounded perfect as it wouldn’t interfere in our sun time. It starts at around 8:30 and finishes around midnight. Tables are set beautifully with rather funky goblets and plates. The Sunday Midnight Brunch sees great little performances interspersed between the three courses and bottomless drinks. The impressive pyramid sharing starter arrived with lots of small spoons with a great variety of small bites. The options seemed endless, with capreese salads, to sushi, nachos, and calamari. Each mouthful was delicious and packed full of flavour. There was a choice of main courses but they seemed to lack lustre after the phenomenal starters. The saffron risotto, beef and gnocci were […]
A Blooming Marvellous Flower Afternoon Tea at Lancaster London
11 May 2017
It seems floral fever has landed in London this May, with the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show and Hyde Park’s Rose Gardens in full bloom. From now until 31 May 2017, Lancaster London chefs are switching bags of flour for flowers and butter for buttercups, as they present the ‘blooming marvellous’ Flower Afternoon Tea. The botanical creamy Lavender chocolate mousse cake, white chocolate macaroons topped with crystallised violets and the tangy Lime and elderflower trifle with edible flowers, are just some of the new delights on the menu. The Flower Afternoon Tea features traditional scones with classic toppings of strawberry jam, clotted cream, and a delectably nectar-sweet orange blossom jam. There are plenty of tasty, savoury treats too. The home-smoked salmon roses on rye bread and Coronation chicken served on sweet cranberry bread are amongst the impressive spread. There are warm tartlets of English asparagus, with exotic saffron and sun-blushed tomatoes and delicious Sunflower seeded choux buns bursting with British woodland flavours from wild mushroom, truffle oil and cream cheese. The floral afternoon tea at Lancaster London is the perfect Spring treat for any celebration. Be sure to check it out. Lancaster London, Lancaster Terrace, London W2 2TY
Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Dubai
8 May 2017
The Jumeirah properties in Dubai are absolutely phenomenal and are what keep us going back to Dubai regularly. They are opulent, and luxurious. Nothing can compare. The Jumeirah Zabeel Saray is nestled on The Palm and is a stunning five star hotel that captures what Dubai is all about. It’s sheer Ottoman grandeur from the moment you enter. There’s an abundance of fresh floral displays, and the chandeliers are breath taking. The rooms are beautifully appointed and overlook the Dubai Marina in the near distance. The beds are so comfortable, one can guarantee the best night’s sleep here. It’s the attention to detail and the nightly chocolate on the pillows that make us smile. The white marble bathroom is sophisticated and stylish with delightful Penhalligons amenities. As well as the rain shower, is an amazing bath. Where do we start with the bath? It’s unbelievable. It’s absolutely huge. It does take a while to fill but it’s well worth it. The Jumeriah Zabeel Saray has some amazing restaurants including the Imperium. It is the most beautiful ballroom that serves food all day. The breakfast spread can seem overwhelming but it caters for everyone. There’s a vast selection of fruits, breads and eggs, crepes, waffles made […]
Recipe: The Perfect Gooey Chocolate Brownies Every Time
7 May 2017
Warm chocolate brownies that are gooey in the middle are utterly indulgent and great for any celebration. Here's a really simple recipe that we have been baking for years and never fails. It is sure to be a crowd pleaser. The brownies won't last long as they are absolutely delicious and come out perfectly every time. Serve on a [...]
Destination Wedding India – Yadu Greens
5 May 2017
India has to be one of the most exciting places for an unforgettable destination wedding. Indian weddings are colourful and vibrant with an overindulgence of food and fanfare. Yadu Greens is a spectacular venue located a short distance from the heart of the bustling city of Delhi. From the moment you enter, the grand entrance is pretty impressive. The grounds are a lush, tranquil haven. There are variety of event spaces, perfect for any occasion. Choose from traditional banqueting suites, extensive green lawns or party pool side. Yadu green can accommodate and cater for between 200 guests to a phenomenal 1500 guests and car parking available for up to 500 cars. The mandaps for the wedding ceremony have been very thoughtfully created. The attention to detail, and ornate arrangements make this a superb venue for a dream destination wedding in India. Yadu Greens, Main, G T Karnal Road, Alipur2, New Delhi, Delhi 110036
May The Fourth Be With You at the Star Wars Exhibition, Madame Tussauds, London
4 May 2017
If you are a die hard Star Wars fan or you just happen to be at Madame Tussauds, London, this immersive exhibition is fabulous. Sensational scenes have been recreated in waxwork. The wax work heroes are detailed and rather impressive. Get up close to Luke Skywalker as he takes on Darth Vader, and take a selfie with Yoda. It’s definitely worth checking out this special exhibition for a great day out in London. Star Wars Exhibition, Madame Tussauds, London
Gilbert Scott at The Renaissance St Pancras Renaissance Hotel
3 May 2017
The St. Pancras Renaissance London Hotel is housed in one of the most beautiful buildings in London, if you actually ever stop, and take a moment to look up. It truly is breath taking, yet there are far too many times we have passed through it, and not stopped to appreciate it. The sheer grandeur, of the gothic architecture is really to be marvelled over. The grand staircases are majestic and fairy-tale like and the perfect backdrop for a wedding photo shoot. The Marcus Wareing Gibert Scott Restaurant and Bar is the ultimate in grand dining experience. Away for the bustle of the train station, the fine dining restaurant is the perfect setting for any momentous occasion. Make any excuse to visit, whether it’s a romantic anniversary, Valentine’s Day or a birthday. It’s really one you will never forget. Start the evening with their cranberry and apple bellini which is so summery and refreshing. The warm bread basket with fennel is beautifully fragrant. The menu celebrates the best of British produce. So although the burrata appeared to have been butchered, and lacking finesse, it could be forgiven by the perfectly chosen accompaniments. Served on a bed of aubergine, topped with pomegranate, basil, pine nuts, and a crisp bread it was far […]
A Feast Fit for a King at Asha’s, Dubai
2 May 2017
Some may better know Asha Bhosle for her music but we can’t get over her amazing restaurants that celebrate Indian cuisine. The traditional North Indian cuisine is authentic, with a rather contemporary, modern take. Asha’s first restaurant is housed in the Pyramids of Wafi Mall and has stood the test of time. It is as stylish and just as brilliant today as we remember it from when we first visited a good ten years ago. Lassi is an acquired taste, which simply put is an Indian milkshake. It can be served salty or sweet and is a cooling yoghurt drink that essentially makes a great accompaniment to a spicy meal. If Lassi is not your thing the mocktails at Asha’s are so delicious. The Truly Berry is so refreshing as a muddle of berries, lemon and ice. The poppadums are served with a range of delicious chutneys, with the mint and mango being our favourite. Spicy, sweet and perfect to dip into and whet the appetite. Asha’s have a new menu at Wafi Mall, that’s absolutely “Fit for a King.” The menu is inspired by street food classics that have been given a modern resurrection. The Aloo Khusnuma Potato barrels stuffed with paneer, dry fruits and […]
Bank Holiday Inspiration with Insider London
1 May 2017
This Bank Holiday we turned to “Insider London” by Rachel Felder for some inspiration to rediscover London. Whether you are a tourist or a true Londoner this new book shares some of London’s hidden gems. It’s a handpicked, “Curated Guide to the Most Stylish Shops, Restaurants, and Cultural Experiences.” It captures the most charming places, culled from decades of exploring and writing about the city, with beautiful photographs. London is one of the most vibrant cities in the world. While most people can easily name its major landmarks and tourist sites, London offers so much more. There are innumerable hidden boutiques, unique museums, and cultural venues, to top-notch cafés, pubs, and restaurants. Insider London has London’s best-kept secrets and diverse neighbourhoods, from style and shopping expert Rachel Felder. It’s as useful for a first-time visitor to the city as for someone on their 101st visit, filled with spots that only a truly savvy expert on the city would know. From Mayfair and Kensington to trendy Shoreditch, and up and coming Peckham, and Dalston, there is everything from well-established boutiques to the trendiest new restaurants. Also in the mix are top hotels, cultural institutions, markets and a wide range of shopping and […]
Monday Social Club at Marina Social Dubai
1 May 2017
Jason Atherton and his trusted team are clearly pulling out all the stops at Marina Social Dubai. The trendy waterfront restaurant in the five star, Intercontinental Dubai Marina Hotel, is ideal for any celebration. Boasting floor to ceiling windows overlooking, the marina, there’s a real buzz in the restaurant, even on a Monday evening. Getting a table overlooking the marina, clearly requires a bit of pre booking. Although the view of the bustling kitchen can be quite fun for the avid foodie, the impressive wine collection entirely blocks the marina view and the entertainment. Fortunately the saxophone can be heard throughout the restaurant. We’d recommended booking the main restaurant with a view over the marina as that’s where it all seems to be going on. Dubai is renowned for over indulgent brunches which seem to be extending into the evenings. The Monday Social Club is a great concept, with endless amazing food and drink. The refreshing mojitos are the perfect start to a phenomenal dinner. With bottomless starters and desserts and a choice of starter, this is all served generously to the table and presented beautifully. There’s a feeling of being at a rather posh picnic, as a hamper is unpacked onto the Gingham throw. The hamper is full of […]
Visiting the World’s Tallest Building – Burj Khalifa Dubai
28 April 2017
The Burj Khalifa is a record breaking 160 stories high and is the iconic skyscraper that takes centre stage on the Dubai skyline. Towering over Dubai Mall, the Burj Khalifa stands tall at an impressive 2716.5 feet high, and is by far the world’s tallest building. The dancing musical fountains at the base of the Burj Khalifa are magical and leave us reminiscing of Las Vegas’s Bellagio fountain. The Burj Khalifa is one of the top attractions to visit in Dubai, and crowds flock to see it and the views from the top. It can get very busy, especially at sunset, and tickets often sell out. It’s a good idea to book tickets in advance with AttractionTix to guarantee a seamless visit. Along the way up, there are opportunities to marvel over the construction of the Burj Khalifa, that took over six years in the making, before it opened in 2010. Getting up to the top of the Burj Khalifa merely takes a a minute. The elevator ride up is swift and smooth, and it’s only the popping of the ears that give away that you have arrived at dizzying heights. With unprecedented views over Dubai, and the Gulf, it really is awe inspiring. […]
Recipe: Royal China’s Honey Roast Pork Puffs
26 April 2017
Dim sum is one of the most popular styles of Cantonese cuisine. The Royal China Group is renowned for its authentic dim sum. Royal China’s chefs have shared their secret recipe for Honey Roast Pork Puffs so that you can try to recreate this Chinese classic at home. Ingredients For the Marinade: 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped 2 tbsp ginger, peeled and finely grated 4 tbsp light soy sauce 2 tbsp yellow (soy bean) bean sauce 2 tbsp honey 1 pinch sea salt Freshly ground black pepper 260g pork tenderloin** For the puffs: 490g ready-made rolled puff pastry 1 egg, beaten Sesame seeds to sprinkle Method In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients for the marinade. Add the pork, cover with plastic wrap and leave in the fridge to marinate for as long as possible, preferably overnight. When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 180°C. Remove the pork from the marinade and reserve marinade. Place the pork in a roasting pan and roast for 40 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 63°C. While pork is roasting, bring reserved marinade to a boil in a small saucepan. Once the marinade has boiled you can take it off of the […]
The most Romantic Restaurant in Dubai – Vanita’s at Palazzo Versace
24 April 2017
The elegant single white rose, that stands tall at the entrance of Vanita’s captures the sense of romance and charm, that is Vanita’s. The waterfront, signature Italian restaurant at the Palazzo Versace Hotel overlooks the Dubai Creek. It’s an utterly luxurious restaurant, that is a tribute true to Versace grandeur. There’s something rather endearing about Vanita’s from the moment you enter. The gentle glow from the candle light, and abundance of red roses just fills you with joy. The Versace Rosenthal tableware is absolutely stunning and it was quite clear from the start, the evening was to be exemplary. The platter of warm assorted breads included a deliciously light focaccia with sun blushed tomatoes and bread sticks. Served with a zucchini and chickpea accompaniments this was a perfect start. The amuse bouche was a unique light, saffron crisp, encasing a green basil sponge and topped with a cooling creamed cheese. There was something rather regal about the presentation of the starters. Each dish, served as a plate of art. The creamy Burrata “Caseificio Artigiana” was surrounded by a crown of pinzimonio vegetables and a green curry jelly, and just looked phenomenal. The Orto was a circle of deliciously fresh seared and gently […]
Splashing around at Aquaventure Waterpark Dubai
18 April 2017
When temperatures soar above 35 degrees, the best day out in Dubai has to be Aquaventure Waterpark. Set amongst 42 acres, on The Palm’s five star luxury resort Atlantis, Aquaventure is beautifully set in a beach front tropical paradise. With slides, shark lagoons, lazy rivers and pools to splash about in, there is something for the whole family to enjoy. Arriving promptly when the park opens is the best way to avoid the queues. With pre booked tickets from AttractionTix it’s just a matter of exchanging the voucher for wrist bands and loading the wrist band with money and activating the locker hire, so you can be completely hands free for the day. In all the excitement we completely forgot to take a towel but we were able to rent one for the day. Although when it’s so hot, we probably didn’t need it as we were pretty dry, quickly and merely dabbing off beads of sweat. Feeling rather brave we headed straight to the The Leap of Faith. Nine stories high, it is one of the scariest rides at Aquaventure, and draws the crowds. It’s worth doing first to avoid queuing. The queue is quite unnerving in itself, as the buzz of excitement is drowned out by the sense of uncertainty by […]
The Dinosaurs are in Town
2 April 2017
Looking for an adventure this half term? The dinosaurs are in town, in the Jurassic Kingdom, that’s taken over Osterley Park & House National Trust, and brought it to life. Amongst the spring flowers, thirty larger than life dinosaurs, have been sprawled around the park. Behind the bushes and in the tree canopy you can see them peering through. The grounds of Georgian country estate have been transformed for just a few weeks only. Welcomed by the huge roaring t-rex, it’s all rather realistic, impressive and intriguing, for the adults as much as the children. Children can be heard squealing with joy whilst others can be seen cowering away, startled by the moving dinosaurs. The roaring can be heard throughout the park, and will keep the kids amused for hours. Amongst the woodland, the dinosaurs are standing tall, and it’s a reasonably long walk around Osterley House and Park to see them all. It’s really lovely on a warm, sunny Spring day. You can easily rack up 6000 steps if you are counting, as you get up close and personal to the dinosaurs. The animatronics are so realistic, it really feels like being in a Jurassic Park movie. There are baby dinosaurs hatching from eggs and different […]
Dubai’s Indian Fine Dining at One & Only Nina’s
1 April 2017
There’s high expectations of Indian cuisine in Dubai as it is usually rather authentic as many of the chefs are from India. Nina’s fine dining Indian completely exceeds expectations as this restaurant is rather extraordinary at the One & Only, Royal Mirage. They are pushing the boundaries with their take on Indian classics and have created some modern variations, that are rather unusual, but brilliant. The restaurant is so elegant and stylish. The sharing experience menu is extensive, rich and over indulgent, and leaves you rather spoilt for choice. The perfect poppadum cones dipped in the delicious accompanying chutneys were wonderful.to nibble on as we awaited the selection of starters. It’s rather unusual to have scallops in mustard sauce in a Indian restaurant but it worked rather well, especially served alongside our favourite crisp puffs of pani puri that explode in your mouth. It’s evident the attention to detail in each course, with a hint of European influences sneaking through. The crispy pancakes were pleasantly sweet and vibrant. The kebabs were quite classic, succulent and packed full of flavour, served with a cooling mint chutney. The paneer served on a bed of salad was light, creamy and just divine. The main course was an exquisite selection of tandoori chicken, lamb curry, […]
The One & Only Royal Mirage Dubai
31 March 2017
There’s an allure about Dubai that keeps us going back year after year. The one year we decided to give it a miss, as soon as the year had passed, we had an overwhelming feeling of withdrawal and immediately booked another trip, to fly out the very next day. Spontaneous and desperate, driven for some winter sun, there was a real sense of relief to be back. Dubai do five star, luxury very well. The grandeur and opulence of the hotels is what keeps us going back. For years of frequenting Dubai, we rarely deviate from where we stay but were so pleasantly surprised by The One & Only Royal Mirage that we are so glad we did. It’s perfectly set along Jumeirah Beach, overlooking the palm and close to the skyscrapers of Dubai Marina. The stretches of beaches in Dubai are often blocked by the man made islands in the water, however The One and Only is located on a reasonably clear stretch adjacent to The Palm, without it interfering in the waves of the ocean. The One & Only is a beautiful, Arabian five star luxury property, set across fantastic grounds. It has three hotels on one site, with the Arabian Court, […]
Where to Eat in Copenhagen If You Can’t Get A Table at Noma
27 March 2017
Everyone knows that a trip to Denmark would not be complete without dining at the infamous Noma, voted number one best restaurant in the world for many years. Having waited years to visit Copenhagen with the hope of a reservation at Noma, we finally gave up waiting. Having periodically tried to book a table at Noma for years, it seems to be virtually impossible despite being on their waiting lists for what seems like a lifetime. We decided it was time to visit Copenhagen anyway, especially when we heard Rick Stein couldn’t get a table either. So instead we created an alternative foodie itinerary. The food in Copenhagen is excellent and actually not having to eat ants at the worlds best restaurant, didn’t seem so disappointing after all. We decided the way to go was to check out establishments run by restaurateur Claus Meyer, the co-founder of Noma. And what a genius idea that was, even if we do say so our selves. First stop- Meyer’s Bageri. From the moment you walk into the bakery, the aroma of fresh bread is just overwhelming, and heavenly. The Danish pastry is famed for a reason. The cinnamon rolls were perfectly formed, gently sweet and fragrant. The hint […]
Eat Fresh at Farmstand
21 March 2017
When you think of fresh food and fast food they are usually mutually exclusive. Farmstand have redefined fast food in the heart of Covent Garden. They source, delicious, sustainable produce locally and prepare it to create healthy and nutritious dishes. The wall of plants and the glow of candle light, gives you a sense this is no ordinary fast food restaurant. Serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner, this is a great place for a quick bite when you want to convince yourself you’re still eating healthily. It’s a simple concept where you pick a main and accompanying delicious side dishes. They all look so tempting. The freshly pressed juices provide a revitalizing hit. Alternatively you can enjoy complimentary sparkling water on tap. The slow cooked beef brisket, mushrooms & tamari was packed full of flavour, and literally fell apart and melted in the mouth. The accompanying broccoli was al dente and lifted by the drizzles tahini and sesame. The side salad of lentils, cucumber, radish & dill was so refreshing and light. There’s a lot of thought that’s clearly gone into the menu, to make simple food great. It’s hard to get excited by aubergines but we really were at Farmstand. So much so we couldn’t […]
The Trendy New Hai Cenato
20 March 2017
Victoria has seen a fair few new restaurants pop up in Nova complex recently. Hai Cenato is just one of Jason Atherton’s trendy New York style eateries that is definitely worth a look in. There’s a real buzz at lunch time, at the newest Italian in town, where they are serving up pizza from golden wood fired ovens. The décor is rather modern, with caricatures of famous chefs plastered all over the walls. The sea salt and rosemary focaccia served with olive oil and balsamic vinegar was fragrant, and ever so light and airy. Despite the temptation to try all the unusual pizza toppings, and grilled sharing platters there’s something alluring about a margarita pizza. The wood fired sour dough pizza topped with San Marzano tomato, buffalo mozzarella and basil is just perfect. So if you’re not in the mood for pizza, the confit lamb neck, aubergine, spiced with Ras El Hanout and yoghurt and mint is a good option. It’s more like a gourmet deconstructed kebab than pizza but still rather delicious. There was definitely some food envy, as the table beside us dug in to the Black treacle cured pork knuckle, San Marzano tomato & white bean ribollita. It smelled and looked amazing and we […]
Share the Love with Scentered for Mother’s Day
19 March 2017
With Mother’s Day fast approaching, we have found the most uplifting gift for Mum from Scentered. Scentered’s therapeutic Love Candles, are a blend of natural waxes and pure essential oils, fragranced with a spicy floral blend of Rose, Ylang Ylang, Patchouli and Cedarwood. The heart-warming, rich perfume harmonises the mind and body within just twenty minutes. Breathe in and let the Scentered Ritual become second nature. Stop, inhale deeply and reset your mood naturally. Result – Love shared! Mum will love this. Scentered also have a gorgeous new LOVE ORB, in a handy balm that can be rubbed onto pulse points. 100% natural, essential oils chosen specifically with rose to balance emotions, soothing Patchouli and grounding Cedarwood to promote feelings of harmony, peace and, of course, lots of love. A gift from Scentered is so uplifting, it will leave Mum feeling rather pampered. Get Scentered STOP apply to pulse points INHALE deeply RESET your mood Scentered LOVE Orb with balm (5g) £14.50, Scentered Therapeutic LOVE Candles from £16.00 from www.scentered.me *Disclaimer: Concierge Angel were gifted samples. However, all opinions and photos belong to Concierge Angel, unless otherwise stated and remain a trademark of Concierge Angel.
Time for Dim Sum at Royal China
15 March 2017
There’s something rather reassuring about visiting a restaurant that has been able to stand the test of time. Royal China’s reputation precedes it, particularly for the dim sum. There’s a sense of nostalgia in the Queensway branch, with the distinct, black and gold lacquered décor. It may look modest from the outside but it’s rather deceiving. The restaurant is huge, which is fortunate, as it seems to be just as popular on a weekday lunchtime, as it is the weekend. The dim sum experience is as authentic as it get’s in London. It’s popular amongst the Chinese community, and that in itself, says it all. The extensive dim sum menu includes classic Cantonese dim sum, amongst seasonal specials created by the chef. Muddling over the menu, it’s very much like being in Hong Kong. Much of the menu is pictorial and the actual ingredients are a bit of a surprise, for when the bamboo baskets arrive. Everything is so tempting on the menu, that’s it’s easy to get carried away. The Shanghai Dumplings ooze a soupy centre and are just perfect. The char siu bao are light, fluffy and cloud like with a sweet barbecue pork centre. Each parcel is packed full of flavour, served piping hot and a […]
Jurassic Kingdom: Where Dinosaurs Come To Life
10 March 2017
Have you ever imagined what it would be like to be in a Jurassic Park movie? It’s almost unthinkable. But it’s now possible!! Jurassic Kingdom: Where Dinosaurs Come To Life, is an extraordinary, new animatronic experience, which will see life-sized dinosaurs taking over parks across the UK, transporting you back to a time when they ruled the earth.Designed by Weli Creative, the team behind the sell-out Magical Lantern Festival it’s sure to be amazing. The dinosaurs are Touring the UK from April, ready to roar and snarl at those brave enough to get up close and personal. Diplodocus heads will be seen amongst the tree canopy as Triceratops escort their young through the bushes beneath. The piercing screeches of the Pterosaurus marking it’s territory will be heard, with the spitting Pachycephalousaurus lurking in the woodland. Standing tall at 18 metres will be the Tyrannosaurus Rex. After an exciting trek through the twisting trails of Jurassic Kingdom, the kids can get excavating. The incredible Jurassic Kingdom will be touring from London, Wales, Bristol, Manchester, Blackpool, Glasgow, Newcastle, Leeds and Birmingham and we just can’t wait to check it out. Jurassic Kingdom kicks April 1st- 17th 2017 at Osterley Park, West London Get your tickets […]
On the Rum Trail ‘Barbados Journey’ at K West Hotel & Spa
9 March 2017
How much would you like to be in the Caribbean right now? The sun, sea and the infectious rhythm of the Caribbean are coming to K West Hotel & Spa. Expert mixologists behind Studio Bar are serving up three new, exclusive cocktails from the Barbados, until the end of April. Satisfy your curiosity and tastebuds with the ‘Barbados Journey’. EL CALIPPO Transporting you to the golden white sands of Barbados, a flirty combination of Doorly’s 3 Year Old rum, MB strawberry liqueur, homemade vanilla syrup, pineapple juice, muddled lemon and strawberry purée. Garnished with physalis and pineapple leaves, El Calippo is a true introduction to the island, being the locals’ nickname for any sorbet or iced drinks. JAMROCK In honour of the legend himself, this cocktail is as colourful as the Caribbean gets. Bob Marley’s son, Damian Marley’s album ‘Welcome to Jamrock’ won two Grammys and K West is recreating the Marley magic. A blend of Doorly’s XO Rum, MB banana liqueur, Malibu, Mozart chocolate liqueur, muddled maraschino cherry and passion fruit purée in a copper-tin mug. A fresh, minty garnish tops the cocktail, along with a sweet finish of passion fruit. OLD VATT’S CASK Served in an old-fashioned style; stirred and smoked with Whisky […]
Be a Star, Bake a Cake for Bowel Cancer UK
7 March 2017
Imagine if making a cake, could save a life? Well now it can! Usually raising money for charity involves vigorous training, being physically fit, getting hot and sweaty and running a marathon or climbing a mountain. That’s all well and good if you are that way inclined. But we’re not. Bowel Cancer UK have had a brilliant idea for all those having Great British Bake Off withdrawal symptoms. April is Bowel Cancer Awareness Month and throughout April, it’s time to get baking for the “Be a Star, Bake a Cake campaign.” Organise a cake sale at home or a bake off at work, invite your friends, family and colleagues to sample the delicious treats and make a donation. Get baking this April to support vital research and lifesaving work to prevent bowel cancer. This is a great excuse for foodies to eat cake and do a good deed. Concierge Angel will be baking and sharing recipes by celebrity chefs throughout April. With recipes from Michel Roux Jr, The Hairy Bikers,Tom Kitchen and many more there’s sure to be something you will want to get baking. Tom Aiken’s chocolate cake is sure to be a treat. If you would like hold your own Be a […]
Greeting Cards Come to Life with Flowercard
6 March 2017
Over the years greeting cards have been evolving and have come a long way from simple personalisation. Flowercard are really bringing greeting cards to life. Flowercard have been creating unique, floral greeting cards for over 15 years, giving a much needed new dimension to cards. The cards are the size of standard greeting cards, and filled with small posies of hand picked, fresh flowers that have been meticulously arranged in a lovely card. The cards can be personalised with a special message and sent with an accompanying selection of chocolates and gifts too. Flowercards are ideal to mark any momentous occasion and are both elegant and stylish. They are sure to take centre stage for a birthday, anniversary or even a wedding day. With Mother’s Day fast approaching, they really are gorgeous for Mum. The “Mother’s Day Parade” are our favourite. The sparkle from the card, bursting full of blooms is stunning. The assortment of baby pink carnations and chrysanthemum with a silver spray that glistens as they catch the light, will make any mum smile. The flower display sit in a foam which can be watered with the accompanying pipette that’s supplied. How would you like to treat your mum to […]
Ended:Win a Personalised Flowercard for Mother’s Day
6 March 2017
Congratulations: Dorian Hall via email is the lucky winner This Competition is now closed Win A £25 voucher from Flowercard Order a lovely, personalised Flowercard in time for Mother’s Day END Sunday 19th March 2017 at 23:59 Flowercard is a unique floral greeting card packed full of fresh, hand picked flowers. Win a £25 for voucher to spend at Flowercard in time for Mother’s Day. Read all about them on the blog now. Enter now by email as well as Facebook, Twitter & Instagram to increase your chances of winning. Facebook: Like & Follow Concierge Angel & Flowercard & Share Competition Post on Facebook with #WinFlowercard Instagram: Like and Follow on Instagram @Concierge_Angel & @Flowercard #WinFlowercard. Be sure to tag a friend who you think would love to be in with a chance to win too. Twitter: Retweet and follow @ConciergeAngel & @FlowercardUK on Twitter with #WinFlowercard Email entry now closed Terms & Conditions No purchase is necessary. Competitions are open to all UK residents except our employees, the companies or organisations with whom the competition or offer is being run, their agents, or anyone directly connected with the promotion. This competition is run with Flowercard who are responsible for the provision of the prize. Concierge Angel will […]
The Culinary Feast at Cosmo
24 February 2017
Buffets are a really fun way to try new cuisines and completely overindulge. With over 150 dishes from all over the world, East meets West at Cosmo. It really is a feast for the eyes as much as it is for the palate. Walking in one can’t help but stop at the enormous dessert counter and the chocolate fountain. It takes a lot of self control to not just start with dessert. The international cuisines take you on a culinary journey from Italy to China, India, Japan and even Mexico. The variety of food is endless and the aromas coming off the live grill stations is mouth-watering. We tend to have an overwhelming sense of FOMO (fear of missing out) when it comes to buffets. The best advice is to eat little and often, to try as much of the food as possible. But better still, save some cuisines for the next visit as there is no way you can possibly try the hundreds of variations on offer. They really do seem to have every type of food you can possibly imagine, whether it’s a pizza, tacos, chicken korma or sushi that you are in the mood for. On a Saturday night the restaurant is really buzzing, […]
Happy Valentine’s Day from the Most Romantic City in the World
14 February 2017
Venice is one of the most fabulous cities in the world. Maybe we’re a bit biased, with fond memories of the dream marriage proposal there, many years ago. Bobbing up and down on a gondola, on the Grand Canal, whilst passing beneath The Bridge of Sighs. Being serenaded with a singing gondolier, who even shed a tear for the happy moment. It really was the most magical moment, marked with applause from passers by. As cliché as it all sounds, it is such a wonderful memory. One can almost forget how unsteady the gondolas actually are and the hairy moments as they splash through and navigate the sharp corners, and you find yourself tipping on one side. The beauty of Venice through our rose tinted glasses cannot even even be jaded by being violently ill after some dodgy gelato. There are not many cities which you have to navigate canals and waterways to get around. Walking over little bridges and through small gullies, uncovering beautiful buildings along the way. There are no cars or roads in the city centre and it’s rather refreshing. Hotel Moresco is well located for a stay in Venice. St Marco’s square is about fifteen minutes away and enable many opportunities to marvel over the Grand Canal. The journey […]
Romantic Dinner at Celebrities, Dubai
13 February 2017
The One & Only Royal Mirage is called the “one and only” for a reason. They pull out all the stops to make you feel rather special. Celebrities is their fine dining restaurant which is just as glam and glitzy as one would imagine. The gold décor is elegant and the huge crystal chandeliers impressive. Celebrities is definitely exceeding all expectations. For a special occasion, a central table looking outwards over The Palace Esplanade is perfect. With a scattering of fresh rose petals on the table, and served plates of art is enough to make you smile. Chef Laurent Michel is pulling out all the stops with his European menu. The pre starter of pate, warm bread and light and airy cheese puffs was delicious. The large creamy burrata served on a bed of thinly sliced courgette, accompanied by a drizzle of pesto was meticulously presented. The ravioli starter with wild mushrooms was so fresh and prepared with sheer finesse. Both the beef and the lamb main courses were succulent and tender and cooked to perfection. Dessert at Celebrities is really not to be missed. The chocolate torte is indulgent, rich and dreamy. The divine, chocolatey trio of intricate pastries, were a fabulous end to the special birthday […]
Is The New York Café the Most Beautiful Café in the World?
12 February 2017
The New York Café is referred to as “the most beautiful café in the world.” So if that doesn’t set expectations high- what does? Having visited some interesting cafe’s over the years in Japan, we really did not know what to expect. Slightly sceptical initially, we were in fact completely blown away. It is most definitely worthy of it’s title. The Budapest café is by far, the most beautiful café, we have ever visited in the entire world. The New York Palace dates back to the 1890’s when the Café was the most popular coffee house in Budapest. Destroyed in the war, in 2006 it was restored to it’s former glory as the Boscolo Budapest Hotel. The Boscolo group are renowned for their five star properties, which are as luxurious and lavish as they are unique and full of character. The hotel is stylish with a stunning atrium. The New York Café can only be described as resembling the inside of an ornate cathedral or grand concert hall. The Renaissance style café has beautiful paintings on the ceilings, with a piano heard echoing throughout. It’s so calm and tranquil with “Somewhere over the rainbow” being played. It’s a rather surreal venue, that is ideal for a romantic celebration, be […]
Hotel Moresco, Venice
11 February 2017
Hotel Moresco is a charming boutique Venetian hotel which is perfect for a memorable stay in Venice. The luxury airport water taxi is the best way to get to the canal side hotel. It is a lovely cruise from the airport and will leave you feeling like a celebrity, arriving in style. Whether it’s a romantic anniversary, a honeymoon or a momentous birthday, Hotel Moresco is just perfect. The service is truly exceptional. Staff are genuinely thoughtful, and friendly and strive to make sure the stay is just perfect. It is clearly apparent they are proud of the hotel and rightly so. Hotel Moresco has such a homely feel, you won’t want to leave. The hotel itself is beautifully appointed and has a lot of character throughout. The Venetian styled rooms are sophisticated and classy. The combination of gold damask printed wallpaper and luxurious emerald sheets, are just dreamy. The beds are so comfortable you just sink in. It’s easy to not want to leave the hotel but there’s a beautiful city outside to explore. Continental breakfasts in Europe seem to have evolved and come a long way over the years. No longer does continental breakfast equate to meat, cheese, and bread. At Hotel Moresco they have a wonderful […]
Holborn Dining Room at The Rosewood
9 February 2017
The Rosewood has an air of luxury and true class from the moment you set eyes on it. The beautiful tree lined entrance is unexpected in the midst of the city of London. It sets it apart from London’s five star hotels. The Holborn Dining Room has an art deco style to it, interspersed with oak and red leather and copper fixtures. The restaurant is spacious and bustling and rather sophisticated. Sunday lunch is a lovely time to visit with the family, for a celebratory roast. The amazing rustic, warm homemade bread with creamy hand churned butter set expectations high. The main courses were just perfect. There’s nothing quite like a hearty, good Sunday roast. The chicken was succulent and topped with a giant Yorkshire pudding. The roasted potatoes were accompanied by an assortment of multi-coloured carrots and locally sourced seasonal vegetables. Who knew you carrots came in so many colours of yellow, green and purple? The fish and chips with mushy peas are enough to give you food envy. The crisp batter encasing the flaky fish was pretty perfect. The Gin Bar at Holborn Dining Room has London’s largest collection of over 400 Gin. Celebrating a birthday at the Holborn Dining […]
Magical Lantern Festival, Chiswick House & Gardens
6 February 2017
The beautiful 65 acres of Chiswick House & Gardens, have been illuminated for the Magical Lantern Festival for the second year running. The immersive trail through the lush gardens, by night is rather magnificent. The Magical Lantern Festival is a lovely collection of giant lanterns embracing art, heritage and culture, whilst celebrating the Chinese New Year of the Rooster. It’s rather exciting to “Explore The Silk Road,” with the lanterns representing the route of trade and culture from Europe to Ancient China.From London through Europe, Central Asia, Arabia, Egypt, Persia, India and Ancient China there’s over fifty larger than life lantern installations. There’s a sense of tranquillity, walking through the gardens on a crisp night. Traipsing through the mud, is well worth it for the impressive installations. The English heritage Grade I listed gardens are interspersed with water features, and the reflections onto the water are stunning. The recreated Forbidden City is by far the most impressive installation. It can get fairly busy, as crowds are flocking from all over, to get a look in at the west London display. There’s a sweet aroma of marshmallows being toasted as you get halfway through. And if you find you are able to resist temptation at the marshmallows, the hot churros […]
72 Hours in Shanghai
30 January 2017
Follow my blog with Bloglovin China was always top of our bucket list and it really is an exciting place to visit. Once you get over the fact that all internet use is censored and there is no access to Twitter or Facebook and even accessing Google Maps can be impossible. Shanghai has to be one of the most interesting cities in the world. It’s superficially high tech and modern yet between the skyscrapers and malls are quaint markets and traditional Chinese temples. The city with a dense population sees flats built high everywhere, even into rock faces. The Grand Hyatt stands tall in the prestigious 88-storey Jin Mao Tower, spanning the 53rd floor up to the 87th. The Grand Hyatt Shanghai was in the Guinness Book of World Records 2000 as it was once the “Highest Hotel in the World.” It’s conveniently located in the business district however a short walk to the Pearl TV Tower and metro. Celebrating a birthday at The Grand Hyatt is unforgettable. There’s something rather dreamy about being so high up in the sky, that you are actually in the clouds. In reality it means sometimes you see the glorious views of the skyscapers from your room, and other times it’s just […]
ENDED: Win a Personalised Cushion from This is Nessie for Valentine’s Day
27 January 2017
Congratulations: @AbbeyMcNeil on Twitter is the lucky winner Win A Lovely Personalised Cushion for Valentine’s Day worth £39 from “This is Nessie” END Wednesday 8th February 2017 at 23:59 “This is Nessie” have turned their famous footnotes stationery into bespoke prints and gifts. Celebrate love and family with this limited edition welly boot cushion created especially for Valentine’s Day. This personalised cushion cover puts the happy couple on the front and is the perfect way to say, “I love you.” The winner can personalise their cushion choosing a pair of wellies for them and their partner, with the option of adding a Valentine’s feel. Just supply the names of the happy couple and choose a title for the top, and there is also space at the bottom for you to be as creative as you like. Made From: Suede effect fabric. Choose between 100% polyester hollow fibre Dimensions: 44 x 44cm approximately. Care Instructions: Turn inside out to hand wash and iron. Also – all new customers can have 15% off their first order of any products with discount code TININDIGO16AR at www.thisisnessie.com ENTER NOW: It’s simple to enter via social media or email – Twitter: Retweet and follow @ConciergeAngel & @ThisisNessieAR on Twitter with […]
Personalise your Wedding Shoes
26 January 2017
Personalise your shoes for your wedding day. The newest addition to the Charlotte Mills collection is the new silver monogram shoe clip. Brides can now customise their bridal shoes with this gorgeous selection of shoe clips. The shoe clips are available in Gold and Silver Metallic Leather, with white embroidery. Brides can customise their shoes with ‘Mrs’ and the first letter of their new last name. Get them now at charlottemills.com
Featured in Wedding Ideas Magazine
20 January 2017
What an exciting week! Concierge Angel are in the February edition of the national glossy Weddings Ideas Magazine, sharing wedding trends for 2017. If you didn’t get a chance to pick it up yet, here’s the lovely spread.
Inspiration for the Perfect Wedding Gift
20 January 2017
With wedding season fast approaching it’s time to find the perfect present for the happy couple. Surely the best gift will be something the couple can use everyday, and will last a lifetime. Cookware is a great idea, as it’s practical and essential and sure to bring years of joy, as they cook up a storm in the kitchen. Prestige The Prestige Stone Quartz range is affordable and delivers premium performance made from durable cast aluminium that heats quickly and evenly. This eye-catching range features a speckled non-stick, anti-scratch interior which releases food easily. The stylish Stone Quartz collection includes knives and bakeware, guaranteed for a lifetime of use. Circulon If you have a little more to spend on the newly weds, the Circulon Infinite range is the perfect choice. For the past 30 years Circulon has used innovation and technology to provide a lifetime of performance. The Infinite range features a hard anodized body which is twice as hard as stainless steel for outstanding durability, with a lifetime guarantee. Circulon Infinite is favoured by many well-known chefs for its professional performance, release system and superior triple layer non-stick coating. With everything from a milkpan through to a stockpot and a wok, the Circulon Infinite range […]
Weddings at Dewsall Court
16 January 2017
Nestled down a quiet country lane in Hereford, Dewsall Court is an exclusive use venue waiting to be discovered. It’s perfect for weddings, parties, family get-togethers and corporate events. Celebrate in quintessentially British style. Dewsall Court is set within 15 acres of gardens. The bottom of the croquet lawn and the lake sit alongside the quaint church that is licenced for weddings. The estate is surrounded by over 1,000 acres of Duchy of Cornwall land, for guests to explore. With unforgettable panoramas; from the lush gardens, the poignant lake within the grounds to the backdrop of the Black Mountains, there is endless opportunity for stunning wedding photography. Dewsall Court was was built in 1642 as a granary and the church within the grounds dates back to before the Doomsday. The notorious Duke of Chandos is known to have been born at Dewsall, and Guy’s Hospital owned the estate for many hundreds of years. The Robinson family bought the derelict house in 1989 and spent a decade restoring it from an uninhabitable house into a lovely family home, and now the exclusive use venue it is today. Dewsall Court completed a £550,000 Wainhouse Barn transformation; creating a stunning new space to host exclusive use […]
Luxury Travel Guide European Awards 2017 Winner
16 January 2017
Exciting news!! We were recently nominated for the Luxury Travel Guide European Awards 2017 and we are really delighted to announce we are winners. We won the award for Service Excellence – Greece. This year, an unprecedented number of shortlisted companies, providing strong competition in every category and has a rigorous assessment criteria. The Luxury Travel Guide Awards represent the pinnacle of hospitality achievement, championing the best in their respective fields; therefore to come out on top is truly an achievement we are really proud of. The awards pay tribute to and commend all those who have excelled in the industry. This is such a prestigious award and will see us featured in the upcoming Luxury Travel Guide, which you can pick up in airport lounges worldwide, cruise ships, and in over 10,000 hotels, and via holiday specialists and tour providers. What a great start to 2017!!
48 Hours in Stockholm
16 January 2017
Living close to an airport definitely has its advantages, especially with so many beautiful European cities on our door step, waiting to be explored. With an unexpected free weekend in the diary, one late Friday night, we decided to go somewhere for the coming weekend. With a quick browse, we found some cheap flights to Stockholm. We checked the weather and with a quick glance at a map, booked the Radisson Blu Strand Hotel. Taxi arranged for 6am, all that was left was travel money. In a moment of haste we ordered some Euros to collect from the the airport, a destination guide downloaded and a few clothes thrown together we were all set. Feeling rather smug that the plan had come to fruition within half an hour of the whim, it suddenly dawned on us that Swedish currency was in fact Swiss Kironas. After correcting the minor blip, the alarm was set to wake up in merely six hours. As much as we love looking forward to holidays there’s something exciting about a last minute, spontaneous getaway. With twenty minutes to landing, an itinerary mapped out, and a few restaurants bookmarked it all seemed to just fall into place. Before we knew it we had arrived […]
St. Ermin’s Hotel Wedding Showcase
10 January 2017
The dreamy St Ermin’s hotel will be opening it’s doors on Thursday 19th January 2017 for a spectacular wedding showcase. Join the team for a glass of champagne and canapés, and explore one of London’s most romantic ‘hidden gem’ venues in the heart of Westminster. Affectionately known as the ‘Wedding Cake Hotel’ due to its dramatic, sweeping staircase, unusual curved mezzanine, impressive chandeliers and beautiful original white rococo Plasterwork throughout – guests are wowed on arrival at the grade II listed St Ermin’s Hotel. Explore the historic property’s impressive wedding spaces, fully dressed to impress and engage with our experienced Wedding Events Team, on hand to answer any questions and demonstrate how each and every wedding at the St Ermin’s Hotel is distinctly individual – from room décor to all important dining options. St. Ermin’s’ collection of wedding spaces range from the grand to intimate accommodating up To 150 people, the hotel also offers 331 guest bedrooms, including five room categories, making it the ideal wedding destination, whatever the size of the party. Be sure to register now to attend. Thursday 19th January 2017 5:30pm – 7:30pm St Ermins Hotel, Caxton Street, London SW1H 0QW Image Credit: St Ermin’s Hotel
Fishmore Hall Hotel & Spa, Shropshire
16 December 2016
FIshmore Hall Hotel & Spa is nestled in an acre of land in the scenic village of Ludlow. It’s a Georgian country house with 15 comfortable, and neatly appointed rooms. Our room was minimalistic with quite daring red walls and satin sheets. The view from the room overlooked the picturesque Shropshire countryside. The room has a nifty coffee machine, and Elemis amenities that are great for use in the inviting tub. It’s the brand spanking new spa and the exceptional 3 AAA rosette restaurant that are really what make Fishmore Hall worth a visit. The newly opened spa is a new concept, eco modular SpaShell. The spa arrived ready assembled and miraculously fitted in just a few days. It’s unbelievable, as although it’s quaint, the pristine spa is fully equipped and has rather stylish treatment rooms with showers and a state of the art sauna and steam room. With so many buttons to fiddle with is it’s easy to get distracted. You can’t even begin to imagine how many options there are, to change the ambience of a steam room. Change the colours according to your mood, and the music to relax to, whilst adding in the odd breeze and rain shower. […]
Ended Christmas Competition: Win a Spa Getaway at Fishmore Hall Hotel & Spa
16 December 2016
Congratulations Ellie Smith @_smithellie on Instagram is the lucky winner How would you like to win an amazing Christmas Gift? Concierge Angel had an amazing time at Fishmore Hall on the blog and now….. We’re giving away an amazing spa getaway for two at Fishmore Hall In Shropshire Win a free 1 night stay for two at Fishmore Hall Hotel & Spa including Three Course Meal for two at the 3 AA Rosette Forelles Restaurant 55 minute Elemis treatments of your choice for two people This also includes full use of the brand new SPAshell Spa & Breakfast for two Prize to be booked between January and March 2017 Competition Ends Midnight Christmas Eve 24th December 2016 *Terms & Conditions Apply Enter now with just your name and email address It’s simple to enter via social media too- Twitter: Retweet and follow @ConciergeAngel & @fishmorehall @FishmoreSpa on Twitter Facebook: Like & Follow Concierge Angel & Fishmore Hall & Tag who would like to share this experience with and share the Competition on Facebook Instagram: Like and Follow on Instagram @Concierge_Angel & @fishmorehall @spa_at_fishmore Be sure to regram and tag a friend who you would like to share your gift with Enter on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram […]
Dinner Parties at Dewsall Court with Masterchef Ping Coombes
13 December 2016
Set amongst the idyllic countryside, Dewsall Court is an exclusive use venue, that’s usually by invitation only, for weddings, and celebrations. Fortunately, a few times a year it’s an open house, hosting Hereford’s most talked about dinner party. Dinner Parties at Dewsall Court are a novel culinary experience, frequented by top chefs preparing bespoke, four course menus. It’s no wonder foodies from all over the country flock to Hereford, for this unique dining experience. November’s supper club, saw 2014’s Masterchef winner, Ping Coombes showcase a Malaysian feast. Dewsall Court dates back to 1644 and the property has been restored to it’s former glory. There’s a truly historic feel throughout the house, which has been elegantly preserved. From the moment you walk in, one’s immersed into the traditional, quintessentially British manor house. Crackling can be heard from the warm log fires. It’s ever so homely and welcoming. The dinner party began with zesty, citrus, kumquat infused tropical cocktails in the library. Sinking into the cosy sofa, beside the glowing fireplace, evokes wonder. One can’t help but try to imagine, who may have once sat here, reading the leather bound books by the warm fire. Celebrity chef, Ping Coombes, mingled with guests, before sneaking back to the kitchen to continue preparing a feast. Ushered into […]
Radio City Christmas Spectacular Rockettes, New York
10 December 2016
New York’s iconic Radio City Music Hall is home to The Rockettes for Christmas. Annually, the Rockettes rock the stage in an elaborately choreographed performance. The sets are truly stunning and the costumes glitzy. As giant snowflakes float above the audience, a sprinkling of glittery snow begins to fall, you can see why this show is a seasonal sensation. It’s magical and really not to be missed, when in New York during the festive season. The Rocketts,Radio City Christmas Spectacular, 1260 Avenue of the Americas (6th Ave) between W 50th St and W 51st St
The Savoy, London
9 December 2016
The Savoy is one of London’s finest, prestigious five star hotels with a prime location tucked along the Strand, and overlooking The River Thames. The iconic hotel is all glitz and glamour, with a rather impressive shiny entrance. Inside it’s quintessentially British, with beautiful floral arrangements and glorious chandeliers. From the moment you walk in, be prepared to be immersed in splendour. The smell of chocolate diffuses from the gift shop where the chocolate is being made. The shop also has such a gorgeous collection of gifts that’s definitely worthy of a look in. Sir Winston Churchill, Oscar Wilde, Frank Sinatra and HM Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother, are said to have dined at The Savoy Grill. Fine dining of the highest standard is to be expected at The Savoy since chef Auguste Escoffier set the standard in 1889. Now under Gordon Ramsay, the menu is very British with a hint of French coming through. Savouring lunch there on a weekday, it seemed to be quite a full house, seemingly popular for business lunches. It’s dimly lit, and although on first glance the décor may appear slightly dated, it has intentionally been restored to its original 1920’s Art Deco style. The silver service […]
New Year’s Eve in Iceland
8 December 2016
New Year’s Eve need not be over rated, anti-climatic and overpriced. Having spent the last six years in different cities, from London, to Orlando, Las Vegas, New York and Abu Dhabi, we love finding a new destination to enjoy the celebrations of New Years Eve. To ring in 2016 we picked Iceland. Iceland has to be one of the most unique and memorable New Year’s experiences. Usually we think ahead and book a restaurant and get in on the action. Somehow the evening was all set to be about catching the Icelandic traditions of bonfires and fireworks and we overlooked booking a restaurant. Having spent a fabulous day at The Blue Lagoon and a lavish lunch at The Lava restaurant on New Year’s Eve, dinner hardly seemed important. At the same time we were hoping to have a nice dinner somewhere. The hotel concierge at The Icelandair Marina Hotel, handed us a list of 40 local restaurants, most of which were closed and the rest fully booked that evening. Even the hotel restaurant was fully booked. We looked up some local restaurants hoping there may be an opening and donned on our snow boots and braved the snow in search of some food. […]
The Magical Christmas Experience at Lapland UK
6 December 2016
Children all over the world are told fond Christmas tales about the hardworking elves, making toys tirelessly for Santa. The stories are mystical and enchanting, and it’s every child’s dream to be a part of it. Just imagine the look on your child’s face, when you tell them they can become Santa’s little helper in the North Pole. At Lapland UK, Christmas is brought to life in the annual, immersive, award-winning experience. From the moment the invitation arrives, the excitement is infectious, and sees grown adults turning into big kids, as they anticipate enacting their childhood dream. There’s a distinct dizzying feeling, whilst walking through the Enchanted Forest and being whisked away, from Whitmore Forest to the North Pole. The intricate attention to detail, from beginning to end, is just charming. There’s no mistake that you have arrived somewhere rather special. Greeted by jolly elves at check in, the children are given Elf passports, to collect stamps along the adventure. The elves are ever so cheeky and soon have you joining in on their songs and silliness. Be prepared to place your thumb on your nose and wiggle your fingers in jest, as the customary greeting throughout Lapland. The journey begins, with a group tour, through the illuminated evergreen […]
Vote for Us in the UK Blog Awards 2017
5 December 2016
So the year seems to have flown by and we have been nominated in the UK Blog Awards 2017. If you remember, earlier this year we made it to finalists in the Food & Drink Category in UK Blog Awards 2016. This year we have been nominated in the Company Food & Drink category and Travel. It’s rather exciting to be nominated. It’s now up to the public vote to get us to the finals. If you have enjoyed reading our blog over the last year, it would really mean everything to us to have your support. It only takes a minute and we really do appreciate all your support. Voting closes on the 19th December 2016.
The Forest on the Roof, Selfridges
5 December 2016
Christmas is one of the most magical times of year in London. There’s some Christmas pop ups that are not to be missed. Be whisked up from the perfume counter of Selfridges, to The Forest on the Roof Restaurant and Bar. The Des Mcdonald restaurant on the rooftop is a lovely place to absorb the festivities on Oxford Street. Walk through a tunnel of Alpine forest, scattered with hanging glitter balls that twinkle. There’s something rather magical about arriving at the chalet style roof terrace. As the sun beams in, it’s lovely and warm. As the nights get colder, there’s plenty of blankets to keep you warm and watch the starry sky. The winter menu celebrates the finest, fresh British ingredients. The garlic toast with Swiss cheese fondue is perfectly heart-warming for the winter day. The British classic 1936 beer battered fish & chips, caper mayonnaise is hearty. The Highland venison fillet, bashed neeps, sour cherry sauce is just perfect. Next time we will have to try their desserts. The Forest on the Roof is a great spot for lunch, dinner or fun, festive cocktails this season. Be sure to check this pop up out if you’re in the city this Christmas. […]
Winter Wonderland, London
4 December 2016
London is annually enchanted by the Christmas spirit, that the much anticipated Winter Wonderland, brings to Hyde Park. This year the Christmas market boasts over 200 Bavarian style chalets, offering festive food, clothing, jewellery, decorations and much, much more. Walking around, treat yourself to delicious churros, roasted chestnuts and mulled wine, as the perfect excuse to keep warm. The sizzling spicy German sausages, hot off the BBQ are not to be missed. Grab some popcorn, candy floss and some smooth hot chocolate for Zippo’s Christmas Circus in the Mega Dome. There’s jaw dropping magic and amazing stunts aplenty. With colourful clowns and jugglers, it’s an action packed forty five minute that’s surprisingly comical. The Sooty Christmas Show is a delightfully nostalgic puppet show, that sees the little ones laughing on the edge of their seats. “Izzy Wizzy Lets get busy,” as Sooty, Sweep and Soo have a mischievous morning. The Magical Ice Kingdom, frosty walk-through attraction, houses a vast array of ice sculptures in a huge world of ice. The polar sculptures are intricately carved and enormous and so impressive. Be sure to remember your scarves and gloves as it does get rather chilly in there. The rides at Winter Wonderland, will literally […]
Magical Walk in the Enchanted Woodland of Syon Park
28 November 2016
Syon Park is stunning all year round, but the colours from the Autumnal trees is just glorious. Annually, as the days get shorter and the nights draw in, Syon Park is transformed into an Enchanted Woodland. It’s an immersive, magical trail through the lush gardens, by nightfall. Wrap up warm, as there’s over a mile of fairy lights, and light projections bringing the woodland to life. The reflection of the multi-coloured illuminations onto the water, is just majestic. There are interesting sculptures to be found between the installations. There are mystical fairy doors, and lamp shades swaying from the trees. With giant sweets amongst the shrubs, one can’t help but feel like you have arrived in Wonderland. After all, Syon Park is where “Alice Through the Looking Glass” was filmed. There’s a touch of Christmas spirit, with baubles and snow flakes blowing in the wind. As the mist meanders, the rumblings of a dragon can be heard. And amidst the waters lurks Syon’s very own monster. It’s all rather surreal. The rotating disco ball hanging high up in the trees is dazzling and twinkling, as you walk through the woods. There’s plenty of fun to be had making shadows in the darkness of the […]
Caxton Grill at the Dreamy St Ermin’s Hotel
25 November 2016
As you walk through the large iron gates, fairy lights twinkle amongst the quiet tree lined courtyard, leading up to St Ermin’s Hotel. You would never imagine finding an enchanted, secluded hotel that’s quite unbelievably tranquil, in the midst of central London. The hotel is part of Marriot’s Autograph Collection so it’s really no surprise how gorgeous the hotel is. The sweeping staircase, amongst the impressive rococo décor and the grand ballroom are ideal for weddings. The award winning Caxton Grill is renowned for using the finest ingredients from their rooftop kitchen garden. Mojitos are always a great way to start to an evening, and the one’s at Caxton Grill are just so refreshing. A basket of warm bread with whipped butter served on a marble stone sets you up for a fantastic meal. The herb crusted rosary goat’s cheese with marinated figs, savoury granola and brioche starter was divine. The chicken, apricot and pistachio terrine on a bed of coriander and chickpea puree, cous cous, and pickled vegetables, was elevated by the warm chorizo added to the mix. The succulent pork fillet mignon wrapped in pancetta, with slow roasted, tomato glazed pork belly comes served on an unusual bed of garden peas and black eyed beans. The lovely fried onion […]
Sweetheart Cupcakes come to London
21 November 2016
It’s always rather exciting when there’s a new opening in London. Especially when we are talking cupcakes. Owner Polly Antoniadi’s has been making customers smile in Greece since 2012 with her amazing cupcakes. And now Sweetheart has finally come to London’s Covent Garden. Having opened in September, the bakery resembles a cute, Victorian dolls-house, with floral décor, polka-dot cushions and pastel bunting. The cakes are freshly baked in store daily, with an ever-changing menu of masterfully adorned cakes. Each cake is baked to perfection with the finest, wholesome ingredients and laced with Sweetheart’s very own marmalades, creams, spiced fruits and flower extracts. This is the secret to their delicious, traditional family recipes. Sweetheart are true to their motto, “Baking Happiness” and put their heart and soul into every cake. The ever so pretty, vanilla cupcake is topped with a baby pink strawberry frosting, meringue and a strawberry, lightly dusted with icing sugar. The meringue adds a little twist to a classic cupcake, as does the surprise of strawberry jam in the core. The cake is light and airy, and as the strawberry jam oozes out into the meringue, one can’t help think this takes inspiration from two of our favourite desserts. A classic Victoria sponge amalgamated with […]
Andaz London Liverpool Street
12 November 2016
A stone throw away from the hustle and bustle of Liverpool Street station, there is a distinct sense of calm at the boutique hotel, The Andaz. The Hyatt hotel is housed in an extraordinary, Victorian building designed by the very same architects who designed the Houses of Parliament. This sets the precedent for the five star establishment. From the moment you enter you can smell the luxury. No really you can. There’s a divine floral fragrance that gently wafts through the hotel.The lobby at The Andaz, is rather unexpectedly, modern and contemporary. The hotel seems to have a distinct mix of trendy modern with traditional Victorian features throughout. The deluxe king Pearly Room features a bespoke, monochrome mural, by street artist, Patrick Morgan. It’s an interesting feature representative of East London pop culture, with the iconic Spitalfield’s Church tower, surrounded by endless buttons. In the late 19th century, a Japanese ship carrying pearl buttons sank in the River Thames. Market traders flocked to salvage the buttons and sewed them onto their clothes, becoming the infamous Pearly Kings and Queens, depicted in the mural. The room is quite minimalistic yet sophisticated and comfortable. The Andaz Liverpool Street have thoughtfully kitted out the room with a Bose docking station, a well stocked non-alcoholic mini bar and tempting snacks that are all complimentary. This is a nice touch, […]
The Best Kid’s Party Ever – The Dream Sleepover Experience at Hamleys
2 November 2016
Hamleys is undoubtedly, the most wonderful toy shop in the world. Every morning the fun begins with the age old tradition, of an eager child being chosen to ring the bell and open the giant doors to the toy shop. There’s an infectious sense of excitement, as shoppers are greeted by giant teddy bears, and a man on stilts blowing endless bubbles. The magicians marvel both he children and adults, as the helicopters hover overhead, and remote control cars meander the store, whilst furry pink toy dogs, bark at your feet. The range of vintage, classic wooden toys are ever so charming and the huge lego statues are impressive. With train tracks winding around the periphery of the store, you know you have walked into toy heaven. Imagine how amazing it would be to have a birthday party in one of the world’s finest toy shops. Hamleys have an exclusive party room for birthday celebrations and anything is possible to make it an extraordinary celebration. Last month MiSuenos Kids, launched their luxurious, fairy-tale beds in the Hamleys Dream Sleepover Experience. Amanda Gama has masterfully engineered, beautiful castles and playhouse bedsteads. The intricately detailed beds, showcase beautiful artwork, by the talented Annie Newman. The beds take centre stage for the birthday prince or princess to sleep in, but it’s big enough […]
ENDED- Win a Bespoke Glass Chopping Board from This is Nessie for Christmas
1 November 2016
CONGRATULATIONS Danielle Turner on Facebook is the winner! Win A Lovely Bespoke Glass Chopping Board from “This is Nessie” ENDS MIDNIGHT FRIDAY 25TH NOVEMBER 2016 “This is Nessie” have turned their famous footnotes stationery into bespoke prints and gifts. Completely unique, you can build a family or household out of wellies for a charming and unusual present. Line up all the children, and maybe grandchildren too, in their wellies. Without all the muddy footprints, get them on your own bespoke glass chopping board worth £33.25. The winner can personalise their glass chopping board by choosing a pair of wellies for each family member, with the option of adding a Christmas feel. Just supply the names and ages for sizing of the wellies. Choose a title for the top of your print, and there is also space at the bottom for you to be as creative as you like. Also – all new customers can have 15% off their first order of any products with discount code TININDIGO16AR at www.thisisnessie.com ENTER NOW: It’s simple to enter via social media- Twitter: Retweet and follow @ConciergeAngel & @ThisisNessieAR on Twitter with #winwellies Facebook: Like & Follow Concierge Angel & AlysonatThisisNessie & Share Competition Post on Facebook Instagram: Like and Follow on Instagram @Concierge_Angel […]
How to Pick a Wedding Band that Works with Your Engagement Ring
31 October 2016
Choosing a wedding band, that embodies who you are as a person can be challenging. You want to ensure you have the perfect stone, shape and design that is truly unique to you, especially if you are going to pair your wedding band with your engagement ring. So how do you go about matching them, you ask? Well, here’s a couple of ideas to help you purchase that perfect ring. Decide What You Want There are so many different varieties of wedding bands. First, you want to decide on the metal; gold, silver, platinum? Once you’ve chosen, take into consideration your personal style. I know you want your wedding band to stand out, but you’ll want to keep it within the style of how you dress on a day to day basis. Think how you would describe your style; vintage, bohemian, chic or maybe classic. It’s good to keep these ideas in mind when shopping for your wedding band. Consider Buying Your Engagement Ring and Wedding Band Together This may not work if you’ve already got your engagement ring on your finger, or if you prefer to have a surprise proposal, but knowing which bands pair with which rings can […]
Give the Gift of Scent: Landon Tyler
27 October 2016
It’s the time of year where all we can think about is buying lovely gifts for friends and family. Landon Tyler have launched a lovely new range of home fragrances that make the ideal gift. They are elegantly packaged and their, simple, yet sophisticated design is a perfect addition to any room. They make beautiful centrepieces. The frosted glass candles and diffusers come in twelve different scents, with something for everyone. The Citrus Grove is our favourite. It is an uplifting combination of refreshing lemon, grapefruit and bergamot. As the candle flickers and the long, dark nights set in, cosy up to the gorgeous scent that fills the room. Diffusers are a great way of eabling the lovely scent to disseminate gently, throughout the day, and making you smile every time you walk into a room. Think clementines, cloves and Norwegian spruce. It’s Christmas in a candle. Landon Tyler capture the traditional, festive spirit with Scent of Christmas. With Christmas lurking round the corner these candles and diffusers make for lovely, affordable gifts and would be sure to be a luxurious addition to any stocking. Who will you be getting a Landon Tyler gift set for this Christmas? Be sure to check out the full range and find your local stockist at Landon Tyler, […]
London’s Halloween Special at The London Bridge Experience & London Tombs
23 October 2016
The London Bridge Experience & London Tombs is horrifically scary all year round, but their Halloween special is far more terrifying than you can imagine. Phobophobia, “The Ventriloquist’s Nightmare” is an immersive theatrical, adult only experience, not to be missed. It’s most definitely not for the faint hearted, and be prepared to be scared witless. There’s a distinct, damp, deadly scent, in the haunted grounds of London Bridge, that evoke fear and goose-bumps. Greeted by zombies and pythons, there’s an eerie feeling of someone, or rather something, following you at all times. Lurking in the dark, are live marionettes ready to pounce and frighten you. Prepare to be startled by sudden bangs, bright lights and loud clambering, whilst being chased by crazed chainsaw wielding zombies. Holding onto the stranger in front, is the only reassurance, as you dodge bludgeoned, decapitated heads, to escape the wrath of the bloody butcher. It’s like being in a gruesome, horror movie. A terrifying, multisensory experience like no other. Between screams are plenty of giggles to be had, as you try to squeeze through the Vaults. The psychedelic, dizzying tunnel is disorientating, and the screeching shrieks are blood curdling. But that’s all part of the thrill. If you are looking for the ultimate, memorable Halloween experience in London, be sure to visit Phobophobia, at the UK’s scariest attraction. It’s running for […]
Dominique Ansel Bakery, London
5 October 2016
After much anticipation, the legendary cronut by Dominique Ansel Bakery has finally made it to London. So the queues started last Friday on Elizabeth Street in Belgravia. After being far too inpatient to queue in New York, and being second time lucky in Tokyo, with Dominique Ansel virtually on our doorstep we had to stop by. The cronut of the season is apparently Salted Butterscotch and Cocoa Nib. I say apparently, as it seems we were far too late in the day to taste them ourselves. Arriving in the afternoon in the first week of doors opening, there was really no chance we would get our hands on one. We really should have known better. We were just lucky to make it through the doors and see the sign that 350+ had sold out already. It still doesn’t make sense why they just can’t make a few more if they know how popular they are, but it was the perfect excuse to try some of the other things on the menu. The DKA is a caramelised layered croissant like muffin with a sweet crunch on the first bite. It would make a delicious breakfast pastry. Forget dipping cookies in milk, […]
Baltazar Grill, Budapest
26 September 2016
Baltazar hotel is a funky, Buda establishment, a stone throw away from the iconic Matthias Church in Budapest. The decor is uber modern yet retro. The Baltazar Grill has a rather trendy, cool vibe. In the peak of the summer, al fresco dining is a great pleasure. Overlooking a church, hearing the bells chime at random hours reminds you of the history that surrounds you. The menu is full of sharing platters and grilled meats cooked on the famous Spanish Josper Grill. The servers are rather charismatic and charming. With a new found love for Burrata it was treat to have this served as a Caprese style salad. Burrata is an indulgent mozzarella filled with cream. It is light but satisfying when served with fresh basil and tomatoes and peppery rocket. The truffle French fries are rather pungent, topped with shavings of truffle. The burger is pretty darn good. Layered high with lettuce, tomato and brimming full of cheese, with homemade sauces seeping out, it’s fully loaded and is mouth-wateringly good. The grilled leg of chicken with crispy skin with dashings of rock salt is tender and succulent. The portions are rather generous and we will have to go back to try their desserts. […]
Baristro, Lech
24 September 2016
The trendy Rufiplatz cafe, Baristro is a great place to unwind and recharge whilst in Lech. It’s a relaxing place to grab a coffee or a beer. Baristro is a refreshingly modern, minimalistic and stylish café. There are an assortment of lovely cakes and savoury treats. The indulgent hot chocolate topped with whipped cream, is perfect to snuggle up with on a snowy day in Lech. Baristro, Rufiplatz, Lech
The Grand Hotel – Oslo, Norway
14 September 2016
A weekend exploring Oslo has to be spent at The Grand Hotel Oslo. It’s centrally located, and most definitely our favourite five star hotel in Oslo. Established in 1874 there is an ere of vintage, however the hotel is in fact deceivingly modern. From the moment you are ushered in, you know have you have arrived somewhere extraordinary. It’s all marble and glorious display of flowers and chandeliers. The small golden boy sitting on a rocking horse by Elmgreen and Dragset is rather majestic. The wall of the reception is rather interesting, with endless lit door knobs and keys. The staff are so friendly and courteous and had some excellent dining recommendations. The Palmen restaurant has an extravagant multi-coloured, shabby chic chandelier that takes centre stage of the dining room. The plush sofas and marble tables are sophisticated and stylish, you can see how this is the hotel of choice for celebrities and royalties. The wall of famous guests that have frequented The Grand Hotel seems endless – including Queen Elizabeth, Barrack Obama, and even Michael Jackson. Expectations are set high when these are the types of guest they are used to. The breakfast buffet is a relatively modest selection of eggs, fruit, breads and […]
The Best Hotel in the World- COMO Parrot Cay, Turks & Caicos
12 September 2016
With so many wonderful Caribbean islands how would you even begin to choose? As far as we are concerned, look no further than the luxurious, private island of COMO Parrot Cay. It is sheer paradise. It is an exclusive, 1000 acre private island tucked into Turks & Caicos in the Caribbean Sea. With powder sands and pristine, clear waters it is truly out of this world. Fly into Providenciales and be whisked over to the marina and then taken by private speedboat to the hotel. Arriving in under an hour, arriving at night doesn’t allow you appreciate the full beauty of this place, but you get a yearning sense of what is to come. The marvel when you wake up in the morning and open the curtains is truly overwhelming. The rooms are understated, whitewashed, colonial villas . The room is filled with a four poster bed. The balcony overlooks lush, tropical gardens and the beautiful glistening sea. The beach is undeniably the most breath-taking, and it’s no wonder COMO Parrot Cay has endless annual accolades for it’s spa and hotel. It was voted number one hotel in the world by Conde Nast Traveller Awards 2013. It’s the only beach we have visited that is preserved like a shrine. You must take your hotel […]
Cake Smash
11 September 2016
The long standing tradition of just smothering a little bit of cake from a slice of cake on a birthday are now old news. In an age where we want to capture great photographs and selfies, there are some new crazy traditions emerging - and cake smash has become a thing. Especially to mark a baby's first birthday. You [...]
BBQ’s with Branston
11 September 2016
Disclaimer: Concierge Angel were guests of Branston’s and attended on a complimentary basis. However, all opinions and photos belong to Concierge Angel, unless otherwise stated and remain a trademark of Concierge Angel.
The Candy Floss and Ice Cream Dream at Milk Train
9 September 2016
We love candy floss and constantly crave ice cream so imagine the delight when we discovered our two favourite sweet treats are being combined at London’s Milk Train Café. It is a dream come true. The little café off the Strand, is serving ice cream floating on fluffy cotton candy. It is pure genius. With vanilla, chocolate and matcha ice creams on offer there are a variety of toppings including popcorn, salted caramel and oreos. The creamy vanilla ice cream sprinkled with crumbled oreos surrounded by a halo of candy floss just makes us smile. It’s a brilliant concept and we can’t wait to go back for more. Could you resist? Milk Train, 44 Bedford Street, Strand, London, WC2E 9HA
London’s Top New Attraction: Arcelor Mittal Orbit
9 September 2016
Nestled amongst the skyscrapers of Stratford, stands proud the ArcelorMittal Orbit designed by Sir Anish Kapoor. The tall, bright red helical structure has become an established part of the Stratford skyline since its installation by renowned artist Carsten Höller in the run up to the Olympics in 2012. The ArcelorMittal Orbit holds the title of Britain’s largest sculpture and excitingly has been updated to house the world’s tallest and longest tunnel slide. As one gets closer to the Orbit, the sheer scale of the art piece and slide dawns. Just looking up will make you dizzy. So although you could opt to climb over four hundred steps, fortunately there’s a lift to the top. The views of London from the top are breath-taking. With unprecedented views of the Shard, the tall skyscrapers of Canary Wharf and West Ham United football club in the adjacent London Stadium. The air of excitement amongst those eagerly waiting to go down the slide is undeniable. Once padded up with elbow protectors and not so glamorous helmets, it’s time to go down the slide. It’s a relief to hear that nobody has ever got stuck in the slide; it is supposedly impossible! With an overwhelming […]
Must See: A Gruesome Dinner At the Twits
8 September 2016
It’s not often we would recommend trying a revolting menu and grotesque food, but this is all of the fun of this immersive theatrical dining experience. Dinner at the Twits is gloriously gruesome and will play havoc with your mind and tastebuds. Les Enfants Terribles present Roald Dahl’s Dinner at the Twits, as a unique, interactive theatrical experience at The Vaults in Waterloo. Enter the alternate world from the moment you walk through the graffiti tunnel. From the award-winning team behind Alice’s Adventures Underground, in association with culinary gastronomic geniuses Bompas & Parr, guests are cordially invited to the worst dinner party in the world, at the residence of the revolting Mr and Mrs Twits. Greeted by the disgusting couple, inside their windowless house and ghastly garden be prepared for a grown-up journey down memory lane. Be warned: Dinner at the Twits is not for the faint hearted. With a banquet of unimaginable dishes, homemade cocktails of glowing, Sting and Tonic topped with nettles and thistles it really is rather bizarre. Fish the glass eye from your cocktail, take a slice of bird pie, and enjoy all manner of fabulously foul food while being entertained by your horrid hosts. Dinner at the […]
The Most Beautiful Restaurant in the World – Halazsbastya, Budapest
6 September 2016
It’s always rather exciting to discover an amazingly unique restaurant, rather unsuspectingly. The bar has been set high in the restaurant world, but Halazsbastya Restaurant is officially our favourite restaurant in the world. Fit for a princess it proudly resides in a beautiful tower of Fisherman Bastion in Buda. The mystical fairy-tale castle, that is so enchanting one can almost imagine Rapunzel waiting at the top of the tower. With a bar in the spire, a restaurant terrace overlooking the Danube river for al fresco dining and an extravagant fine dining room, this is perfect for any special occasion. It’s an idylic venue for a wedding and the most romantic setting for an anniversary. The views of Parliament are unprecedented. The dining room looks medieval and it evokes memories of childhood fairy-tales. With beautiful arches and splendid chandeliers overlooking views of the river, it’s really rather special. With dining rooms fit for a King’s banquet. Each course is served with a cloche, swiftly and immaculately presented. Starting with warm breads and an amuse bouche of pumpkin soup was delicious. The lamb rump with vegetables was tender and delightful. The chicken served on a bed of warm apple salad was brilliantly refreshing. Dessert was a delicious trio of chocolate and […]
Little Nan’s Afternoon Tea, Peckham
4 September 2016
So if you have never contemplated visiting Peckham, there is now the perfect excuse. Little Nan’s pop up will see you whisked to another world, tucked into the basement of The Golden Anchor Pub. Invited into the quirky den, it’s all quite funky and a bit kitsch. With teacups and teddies aplenty, and sparkly, multicoloured fairy lights bringing the party alive. The décor can only be described as unique- with clowns dotted around amongst Eastenders memorabilia. There’s a buzz of excitement that fills the room. It becomes apparent fairly quickly that there is nothing ordinary about Little Nan’s, and the usually quintessentially British afternoon tea, has been given a little twist at this unexpected affair. Pick your own cup from the wall and instead of endless hot cups of tea in fine china, there are cutesy pots of cocktails, sprouting fresh mint. The high tea has an assortment of sandwiches with simple fillings of ham and mustard, smoked salmon, egg mayo and jam. The almond and orange cake and the Victoria sponge are traditionally moist. The ever so sticky rocky road is finger-licking good. Despite pushing the boundaries of afternoon, tea Little Nan’s scones are served reassuringly with cream and jam. Little Nan’s makes for a memorable afternoon. There’s […]
Corinthia Hotel, Budapest
3 September 2016
Budapest is a charming city to explore for a long weekend, and the most lovely place to celebrate an anniversary. Unbeknown to us, Budapest is in fact split into two main regions divided by the river – Buda and Pest. The Corinthia Hotel is an iconic luxury hotel on the fringe of the Jewish quarter in Pest, and a short walk to the River Danube. Celebrating 120 years, the hotel has a beautiful history. It exudes grandeur from the moment you walk in. Service is swift and attentive. The series of stylish covered atriums make it light and airy. The sound of a pianist frequently echoes through the atriums, and once week comes an artist to paint indulgently with chocolate. The Royal Spa has been restored to its former glory and one can just imagine how beautiful the traditional baths were. It can get quite busy as guests wonder through the assortment of saunas, steam rooms and Jacuzzis. The Executive rooms at The Corinthia are sophisticated and stylish. The rooms are plush with Mahogney furniture and marble bathrooms and are extremely comfortable. Overlooking the internal atriums the rooms remain quiet and relaxing. The ESPA toiletries of bergamot, jasmine and a hint of cedarwood are luxurious […]
Exciting News- We are Finalists in the Wedding Blog Awards 2016
2 September 2016
So we have been blogging endlessly for the last year. So it’s an absolute honour to get some recognition and find out we have been shortlisted again for an award. Wedding Magazine have teamed up with Andaz Liverpool Street in the Wedding Blog Awards 2016. Concierge Angel is just one of five blogs in the Best Inspiration: Honeymoon Category. So we really could be in with a winning chance with your support. Please spare a moment to support us and vote for us now before the 30th September 2016. It’s the public vote that counts for these awards so your vote will really be very much appreciated. Vote now.
Summer in Lech, Austria
14 August 2016
So if you don’t fancy speeding down a slope on skis, re-enacting the scene from Bridget Jone’s diary in Lech. Perhaps summer is the best time to visit Lech. Although renowned for it’s winter ski season, summer has to be one of the most beautiful times of year to explore the alternate activities Lech, has on offer. In full bloom, it’s a idyllic for mountain hikes, and bike rides, swimming in mountain lakes, visiting local festivals and markets. There is something for everyone, from golf to fishing, rock climbing and even white water rafting and zip-lining. Staying at a hotel in Lech, entitles one to a complementary Lech card, that conveniently doubles as a hotel room key for the duration of your stay. It allows free, unlimited use of local public transport and ski lifts and gondolas. Hotel Gotthard makes a great base to explore Lech, which is a short walk to the gondola. The snowy mountainous views from the Rufikopf Bergstation, whilst basking in the in the sun, are rather surreal. The dramatic views of the “White Ring” are unprecedented, and one can begin to imagine how absolutely spectacular ski season would be. Every glimpse of the snow capped Alps, hiking through to Burstegg is truly awe inspiring. The hiking trail is supposedly a relatively easy […]
Hüs No 8
14 August 2016
Hüs No 8 is a traditional Alpine chalet, with low beam ceilings, and is in fact the eighth house built in Lech. It’s a popular haunt for locals and visitors, so be sure to book ahead. The menu offer hearty, traditional Austrian classics. Eat like the locals and savour the local favourites.The Grostl is an interesting take on black pudding and potatoes. The accompanying sauerkraut and Kasespäzle, were rich dumplings in cheese, almost akin to macaroni and cheese. The smell of cinnamon wafting from the warm Apfelstrudel was lovely. With carefully layered sweet, yet slightly sour apples in a flaky pastry, it was a classic strudel baked very well. Hüs No 8 feels really authentic, with the backdrop of the snow capped mountain. It is perfect for a casual dinner in Lech, or to mark a special celebration. Hüs No 8 6764 Lech am Arlberg For more ideas on what to do in Lech visit www.lech-zuers.at or www.vorarlberg.at For more ideas for lakes holidays check out Thomson Lakes & Mountains *Disclaimer: Concierge Angel were complimentary guests. However, all opinions and photos belong to Concierge Angel, unless otherwise stated and remain a trademark of Concierge Angel.
Hotel Gotthard, Lech
13 August 2016
As one of the world’s leading winter sport destinations Austria’s VorArlberg region, is not to be missed. However if you don’t fancy falling off skis and more the type to sip hot chocolate and take rides on a ski lift, then summer is the best time to visit Lech. The four star superior Hotel Gotthard is the perfect base to explore the VorArlberg region for hiking, swimming in mountain lakes and a relaxing retreat. Neighbouring Zurich is a mere two hour, scenic drive from Zurich, up to Hotel Gotthard that sits at 1450m. Hotel Gotthard was established in 1931 by entrepreneurial grandmother, Filomena Walch. Now Clemens and Nicole Walch are the third generation to continue the family legacy, and proudly run Hotel Gotthard with the motto “We are home, we are family, we are friends.” It’s quite refreshing to stay at a hotel where the motto really runs true, as Nicole and Clemens are both so warm and welcoming, one leaves feeling you have visited family. The hotel has fifty-two well appointed guest rooms, two restaurants , a cafe and the delightful aroma of fresh bread from the in house bakery, speaks for itself. There are charming, cosy alcoves to relax in throughout the hotel, ideal to snuggle into for a crispy cinnamon dusted apfelstrudel studded with walnuts. Or better still […]
Fischteich Lech
12 August 2016
Sitting at the foothills of the Alps, besides the fish pond in Zug, the Fischteich Lech is not to be missed. With a traditional, wooden chalet feel, there’s something rather cosy and quaint about this restaurant. One can’t help but feel like you have been transported back in time. Although this restaurant is renowned for it’s fish, it seemed the perfect opportunity to try the Kasenodelsuppe- a traditional Austrian cheese dumpling soup. The soft, semolina dumplings sandwiched together with cheese, tossed into a piping hot clear broth , were surprisingly light and delicious. All the fish on the menu is freshly caught daily, and it really seems to make a remarkable difference to the flavour. Accompanied by a rainbow salad, the buttery pan-fried trout had a perfectly crispy skin. Served on a bed of spaghetti, alongside a tomato sauce, this dish was cooked to perfection. The freshness of the fish really turned a humble dish into something special. The Kaiserchmarren were recommended as a local favourite, not to be missed. When there are pancakes on offer, there’s not much persuasion required for dessert. From the moment the warm, sugar dusted balls of pancake were brought to the table, came a gentle, sweet aroma. The pancakes are rather moreish, especially when doused with the sweet apple and plum compoted. Served on a platter made for […]
Lecher Stube at Hotel Gotthard, Lech
11 August 2016
The Lecher Stube is a quaint, family run restaurant at Hotel Gotthard. The traditional Alpine restaurant is charming, with views looking out to surrounding snow capped mountains. It’s the ideal place to savour Austrian cuisine, made with the finest, locally sourced ingredients from the Vorarlberg region. The baskets of homemade breads, accompanied with an assortment of butter and Pâté, whet the appetite. It’s always exciting to discover new local specialities when travelling, especially when the savoury soups unexpectedly include pancakes. The Frittaten oder Grießnockerlsupp, is a cleverly concocted pancake soup. A clear broth with thinly sliced crepe. It’s deliciously heart-warming, and there’s really no need to wait for a snowy day to have it. If only we had known about this sooner. The extensive Lecher Stube menu includes a wide array of international dishes as well as great Austrian classics. The traditional beef goulash had a sweet aroma, and the tender stewed beef was served in a rich, smooth sauce topped perfectly with pickled gherkins. The Spargelrisotto is served as a stylish skewer of veal, wrapped in swirls with air dried ham, gently infused with sage. Served on a bed of risotto laced with basil pesto and asparagus, it’s quite a feast. The service is swift and friendly, and the portions are rather satisfying, especially after a day hiking in Lech. […]
ENDED- Win a Bespoke Glass Chopping from This is Nessie
5 August 2016
Congratulations @magdalenaskisielek on Instagram is the winner! Summer Competition: Win A Lovely Bespoke Glass Chopping Board from “This is Nessie” ENDS MIDNIGHT SUNDAY 14TH August 2016 “This is Nessie” have turned their famous footnotes stationery into bespoke prints and gifts. Completely unique, you can build a family or household out of flip flops for a charming and unusual present. Line up all the children, and maybe grandchildren too, in their flip flops. Without all the sandy footprints, get them on your own bespoke glass chopping board worth £33.25. The winner can personalise their glass chopping board by choosing a pair of flip flops for each family member, supplying their names and ages (just for sizing). Choose a title for the top of your print, and there is also space at the bottom for you to be as creative as you like. Also – all new customers can have 15% off their first order of any products with discount code TININDIGO16AR at www.thisisnessie.com ENTER NOW: It’s simple to enter via social media- Twitter : Retweet and follow @ConciergeAngel & @ThisisNessieAR on Twitter with #flipflops Facebook: Like & Follow Concierge Angel & AlysonatThisisNessieSurrey & Share Competition Post on Facebook Instagram: Like and Follow on Instagram @Concierge_Angel & @AlysonatthisisNessie with #flipflops. Be sure to […]
A Treasured Gift: Lucky Sixpence Necklace
28 July 2016
‘Something old, Something new, Something borrowed, Something blue and a Silver Sixpence in her Shoe’ As wedding tradition has it, the old, British sixpence coin is said to inspire good fortune, wealth and prosperity, when worn in the bride’s shoe. Traditionally the father of the bride would place the sixpence coin in his daughter’s shoe, as a symbol of wishing his daughter happiness, health and a prosperous marriage. Putting a coin in a shoe on your wedding day, surely cannot be the most comfortable place for a good luck charm. But that’s just how the goes. The Lucky Sixpence Necklace from Natural Amber is a precious, eternal memento for a wedding gift, in keeping with the old tradition. As an everlasting gesture, it can mark a joyous occasion whilst being cherished and then passed down for generations. It is a unique keepsake that marks the old wedding tradition and will hopefully keep traditions alive for the years to come. One can imagine a sixpence, in an open toed stiletto, is more likely to cause blisters and slip out, and it’s unlikely to keep the tradition going. This necklace is simply designed with two lucky sixpence overlapping, sitting elegantly on a silver necklace. It’s well made and a beautiful piece of fine jewellery, that can be worn both casually or dressed up for […]
Style your Wedding Centre Pieces
26 July 2016
*Concierge Angel were gifted the products from Festive Lights, however all views and images belong to Concierge Angel.
Cook Fresh Washoku Cuisine with Valentine Warner and Panasonic
25 July 2016
*Disclaimer: Concierge Angel were complimentary guests. However, all opinions and photos belong to Concierge Angel, unless otherwise stated and remain a trademark of Concierge Angel.
Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Marina
24 July 2016
Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Marina is quirky and conveniently located in the heart of Reyjkavik. The views from the room over the marina were breath taking. The hotel has a rather interesting lobby with lots of little characters around the place. With a man sitting by the fire place and another by a urinal, and lost dog roaming. The rooms are quite basic but retain some of the character from it being a converted old paint factory. With old paintings and minimalist furniture the room is just comfortable for popping in and out from excursions. One soon becomes accustomed to the frosted glass bathroom in the corner of the room. The delicatessen is quaint, yet modern and airy and great for a quick bite. The hotel has stylish hidden dens, a cinema room, bar and restaurant. With lots of little areas to hide away from the cold. The location is fantastic as its a mere five minute walk to the centre of town. We were surprised to be able to spot the Northern Lights from our room over the marina and this definitely makes this a hotel of choice to stay for exploring Iceland. The staff is helpful and courteous and offered us daily updates on the Northern […]
Godiva’s 90th Anniversary Celebrations
24 July 2016
Godiva have been masterfully pioneering and perfecting their chocolates for nine decades. It’s no wonder Godiva’s sumptuous chocolate is so dreamy and delicious. 2016 is rather iconic for Godiva, as they celebrate an honourable ninety years of innovating artisan chocolate. The much anticipated London celebrations were well underway at Firmdale’s glamorous, boutique, Ham Yard Hotel earlier this month. The 90th Anniversary celebrations can only be described as an extraordinary, multisensory extravaganza. An evening of “Chocolate for all Seasons,” showcasing the very best of Godiva. The traditional chocolatier marvelled guests with modern theatrics. Tantalizing the taste buds by stimulating the senses with sound, sight, smell and touch. Godiva has crossed the boundaries with the unimaginable. Chocolatier, Jean Apostolou, eloquently shared fond childhood memories, and his inspiration for the sophisticated, signature flavour of raspberry and rose, conjured up for the 90th Anniversary. Dipping the Framboise-Rose truffles into glistening, liquid chocolate, he sprinkled them with crisp raspberry and chocolate shavings, with finesse. It was a great honour to be invited to stand beside expert Chocolatier Patissier, Apostolou, and attempt to recreate the truffles. Meddling with the molten chocolate was far more fiddly than it appeared. There’s something rather alluring about Godiva’s giant strawberries being dipped in hot chocolate. A generous […]
Caesars Palace, Las Vegas
4 July 2016
Vegas is not for the faint hearted and no doubt some people may prefer to play in an online casino from the comfort of their home, this alternative has especially grown quickly during the last years and more and more people are choosing to gamble online. But for those of us who wants to taste the real thing, Vegas is really fabulously fun, with something for everyone, and there’s always a reason to go back. No matter how many times we visit Las Vegas, we leave feeling slightly awestruck. There’s something about the bright lights and buzz of the Vegas strip that always makes it an unforgettable experience. Caesars Palace is a maze of colonnades, shops, restaurants and casino. With ceilings painted with beautiful, blue skies, you can find yourself sitting by Rome’s Trevi Fountain, and losing track of time. Vegas is truly the city that never sleeps and it’s the ambient temperatures, with a feeling of being outside, that seems to do it. There’s something rather infectious about the ringing of the slot machines. As small crowds gather around the Roulette tables splashing the cash, one can’t help being drawn in and getting caught up in the excitement. Doubling our money […]
Shortlisted in The Drink Cellar Food & Drink Blogger Awards 2016
23 June 2016
Exciting news!! The Drinks Cellar and world-renowned winemakers Luc Belaire have been scouting out the best food and drink blogs on the web. And it turns out, they found the Concierge Angel blog and have shortlisted it in the “The Drinks Cellar Food & Drink Blogger Awards 2016”. It’s so exciting to be nominated. Voting opens soon, on the July 4th 2016 and we will be relying on all our avid readers for support to be in with a chance to win this award.
Taste of London
20 June 2016
The Taste of London in Regent’s Park is one of the best places to get a feel of the best restaurants in town. Gourmet restaurants celebrate food by putting on a fabulous preview of their signature dishes in enticing bite size portions. As foodies with ever growing lists of restaurants to try, it’s a great way of savouring them all in one night. Eat little and often to optimise your tasting potential. There are lots of fun places to sit and enjoy food and drink, so a quick scan of the list of restaurants and bars to plan your evening is the best way forward. Trying to get a table at Duck & Waffle without several months of reservation is unheard of. So it’s rather exciting to walk straight to the front of the queue and finally get to try the infamous signature “Duck & Waffle”. What seems to be very much an American concept, works surprisingly well. Crispy duck is piled high on a waffle, doused in maple syrup and topped with an egg sprinkled with mustard seeds. It’s unusual, but definitely worth trying once. On the other hand the deep fried parmesan and polenta croquette with black truffle […]
Dasheene Restaurant at Ladera Resort, St Lucia
17 June 2016
The Ladera Resort, St Lucia is set on a UNESCO world heritage site on Soufriere Volcano. It boasts a unique concept, with each private suite having just three walls. There is no wall on the outer side of the rooms, leaving you at one with nature. Merely with nets around the four poster bed it’s an experience like no other. With plunge pools in each suite overlooking the Caribbean Sea and panoramic views of the iconic Pitons of St Lucia. It really is a phenomenal place to stay. Being at one with nature is perhaps not a good idea if you’re a bit of screamer. However, in theory it sounds absolutely amazing. The thought of geckos and birds flying in freely in the room was the deciding factor for us not to stay here. It’s not for the faint hearted, but for those not afraid of the great outdoors it really would be spectacular. Imagine lying in a bed looking out into the wilderness of the rainforest and the immense Caribbean Sea, watching sunsets. We almost wish we could desensitise to just have this experience. Instead we visited the Ladera Resort for dinner, at the Dasheene Restaurant. As the light breeze blows from the […]
Hotel Chocolat Boucan, St Lucia
17 June 2016
I distinctly remember the day I first heard about Hotel Chocolat and feeing excited there was a chocolate hotel. Until reality struck that it was in fact the name of a premium chocolate brand. Although delighted by their chocolate there was always a slight disappointment that the Hotel Chocolat was merely an illusion of my imagination for a number of years. That was until recently discovering there was in fact a Hotel Chocolat in St Lucia. The hotel I had dreamt about existing for years. Eat, breathe and sleep chocolate in the Caribbean. That’s my idea of bliss. So with many holiday destinations being picked on a whim of the cuisine I felt like having, this one was no different. I love chocolate so it’s almost non-sensicle to not at least go and try the chocolate experience I’d been searching for. After a stomach churning, windy ocean drive, up and down through rainforests and volcanos. Passing shabby huts on stilts, one arrives in chocolate paradise. Hotel Chocolat’s Boucan is like no other. The Rabot Estate cocoa plantation is set high in the rainforest with unprecedented, breathtaking views overlooking the pitons. The surrounding scenery is rather dramatic and picturesque. A boutique hotel with merely thirteen […]
Top 5 Luxury Father’s Day Gifts
15 June 2016
Father’s Day is fast approaching and this can be the hardest gift of the year to buy. So if you have exceeded the number of times you can possibly present a gift voucher for the local DIY shop, or given up finding aftershave or socks. Why not consider these thoughtful, luxury gifts we think any Father is sure to genuinely love. Red Letter Days Why not treat dad to an experience of a lifetime. Whether it’s an adrenaline filled day, sporting fast cars or a gentle ride in a hot air balloon, Red Letter Days have an amazing collection of thrilling, and memorable experiences. You are sure to find an experience dad deserves. But be warned, you may be raising the bar for gifts for future years. Godiva- Limited Edition 90th Anniversary Box Chocolate is a perfect gift for every occasion.The limited edition 90th Anniversary Box is uniquely designed by Belgian street artist Oli B. This is no ordinary chocolate box- it is a celebration of ninety years of the artisan chocolatier. A decadent box that celebrates the decades of Godiva with a chocolate from each era. This is sure to bring a smile to any father, with a gift they may not want to share. Frederick Thomas Frederick Thomas have some great classic […]
Rock Bar, Bali
14 June 2016
he Rock Bar, at The Ayana Resort & Spa, has to be one our favourite bars of all time. Nestled in the side of a cliff, it boasts unprecedented, panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Accessed by a small cable car it is rather unique. It’s best to arrive early and have cocktails and nibbles on a lounger to avoid the crowds. As the sun beams down it get’s sweltering hot, but it’s a truly spectacular experience. Relax on the loungers and enjoy phenomenal sunsets. It’s perfect for a memorable celebration. It’s romantic and surreal and an unforgettable experience. We can’t wait to go back. Rock Bar, AYANA Resort and Spa Bali, Jl. Karang Mas Sejahtera, Jimbaran, Badung, Bali 80364, Indonesia
ENDED-Win a Bespoke Glass Chopping Board from This is Nessie for Father’s Day
7 June 2016
Congratulations Hannah Caitlin Beardmore on Facebook you are the winner. Father’s Day Competition: Win A Lovely Bespoke Glass Chopping Board from “This is Nessie” ENDS MIDNIGHT SUNDAY 12TH JUNE 2016 “This is Nessie” have turned their famous footnotes stationery into bespoke prints and gifts. Completely unique, you can build a family or household out of wellies for a charming and unusual present. Stuck for something for Father’s Day? Line up all the children, and maybe grandchildren too, in their wellies – Dad or Grandad gets the whole tribe with none of the muddy footprints, on his own bespoke glass chopping board worth £33.25.The winner can personalise their glass chopping board by choosing a pair of wellies for each family member, supplying their names and ages (just for sizing). Choose a title for the top of your print, and there is also space at the bottom for you to be as creative as you like – eg muddy boots and rainy days. Also – new customers can have 15% off their first order of any products with discount code TININDIGO16AR at www.thisisnessie.com ENTER NOW: It’s simple to enter via social media- Twitter : Retweet and follow @ConciergeAngel & @ThisisNessieAR on Twitter with […]
The Pointer- Brill
6 June 2016
We live in a time where we are so accustomed to online shopping, the closest we get to selecting our fresh food is clicking “Add to basket.” We are so far removed from the origins of food these days, that it is refreshing to re-conceptualise the life cycle of our food. The Pointer is a celebration of the farm to fork journey of food, with its own farm, butchers, pub and restaurant. Starting the day at The Old Rectory Farm was an extraordinary experience. It was rather exciting being on the back of a trailer, sat on stacks of hay, to see herds of cows grazing in a field of beautiful buttercups. Getting up close and personal with piglets and the happy pigs roaming, it really put free range into perspective. The ethos at The Pointer, is all about good, ethical farming. Wandering through the manicured lawns and herbaceous gardens, gardener Ken’s background at Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons was clearly evident, from the pride and beauty of the gardens. Given free reign to pick and savour the fresh produce was an exhilarating novelty. The perfect, plump strawberries were sumptuous, juicy and perfectly sweet; definitely the best we have ever had. The small, yellow edible flowers, were peppery and mustardy. The fresh asparagus […]
Get Crafty: Watercolour Wishes Kit
31 May 2016
Making personalised greeting cards is a thoughtful way to mark a special occasion and nowadays, it really doesn’t have to be for the artistically inclined. It helps to have a creative streak, but with the Watercolour Wishes card making kit, it’s really not a requirement. There’s absolutely no painting involved. Everything you need has been cleverly incorporated into the box- all that is required is a bit of glue. No matter your skill set you will be creating professional and sophisticated cards in no time. The box is brimming full of a variety of sizes of envelopes and high quality cards with simple watercolour patterns ready to be transformed with individuality. There’s plenty of inspirational guidance inside the box if you really don’t know where to start. Better still there are even accompanying videos available online. The pre painted floral watercolour cut outs are pretty additions for the cards. Add dimension to the cards using double sided foam on the pre cut plaques. The clear acrylic block is easily interchanged with a variety of stamps with an assortment of messages, perfect for celebrating any occasion. The Watercolour Wishes kit is a really neat way of creating cards for every occasion and there is very little mess, unless you get ink on your fingers from the stamps […]
Frederick Thomas London
18 May 2016
Ties and cufflinks define men’s fashion. With Father’s Day fast approaching we have found this amazing collection of high quality, handmade ties from Frederick Thomas London and couldn’t wait to share them with you. The extensive collection ranges from simple, sophisticated classics, knitted, to floral, and even bold prints. There are wonderfully fun ties for the eccentric man, who fancies a tie emblazoned with bicycles or skull emblems. Personalisation is available for a bespoke tie which would be lovely for a memorable celebration. Each individual handmade tie has a unique sumptuous texture and a rather luxurious look. The ties are stylish and will be the defining accessory to a sharp tailored suit. Matching pocket squares add the perfect finish to a co-ordinated, sleek look. The collection of silver cufflinks are rather eye catching, and embellished with an assortment of stones and crystals. The Frederick Thomas London collection compliment any shirt with a range of abstract and ornate accessories that really make a statement. The accessories are versatile for work, or for formal attire for weddings and celebrations. If you fancy updating your wardrobe or looking for a gift for a dapper gent you are sure to find something from the stunning, affordable Frederick Thomas collection. Frederick Thomas London – […]
Rocket Restaurant, Bishopsgate
17 May 2016
There are so many amazing restaurants in London and it’s always exciting to find a new place to frequent. There are trendy Rocket Restaurants scattered throughout the heart of the city. They have a great vibe and the Bishopsgate bar is buzzing in the middle of the week, with suited and booted city folk. The restaurant is funky and modern with retro space invaders finding their way onto the walls. The extensive menu is a mixture of Italian food served in an American, hearty style. The starter of Caprese salad is refreshing and served as large wedges of Buffalo Mozzarella, with flavoursome cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of balsamic & basil salsa served with artisan bread. The crispy fried calamari is served rather fittingly on a bed of rocket, peppers & spring onion with a tangy, sweet chilli & lemon dressing. The stone baked pizzas are a must have here and large enough to share. But with so many different options and when you taste them you will really not want to share. The dough is light and perfectly thin. The prosciutto & mushroom pizza is generously scattered with jalapeños, bocconcini & fresh basil. It really is rather delicious. Mac ‘n’ cheese is very much an American side dish but seems to be finding its way on more and more […]
Afternoon Tea at the Draycott Hotel, Chelsea
9 May 2016
Tucked away in Chelsea, the five star, boutique “Draycott Hotel” has a sense of exclusivity from the moment you walk in. The gentle scent of beautiful, fresh Lillies fills the traditional drawing room. It’s elegant and sophisticated, with rather interesting artefacts in every corner. There’s a real sense of calm and tranquillity. One may feel far removed from the bustling city, whilst in fact, merely a stone throw away from Sloane Square. The afternoon tea at the Draycott Hotel is quintessentially British, and just as indulgent as one might expect. One can’t help but smile when presented with an overflowing cake stand accompanied by a basket of warm scones and endless pots of tea. The sandwich selection of salmon, cucumber with cream cheese and coronation chicken served on an assortment of breads is delicious. However there’s a temptation to consume the sandwiches quickly, just to get to the sweet treats. The best part of afternoon tea is freshly, warm baked scones, studded with sultanas. Smothered with clotted cream and strawberry jam the scones are perfectly golden, wonderfully light and crumbly. The colourful macarons, fruit tarts and moist Victoria sponge are delectable. The panna cotta cups are a chilled custard consistency, sprinkled with a biscuit crumb. The light, fragrant lemon infused cakes topped with lemon zest are definitely […]
Godiva Chocolate Cafe, Harrods
8 May 2016
One can only anticipate extraordinary splendour when the most prestigious store in the world, Harrods, and the finest artisan chocolatier, Godiva, join alliance. The Godiva Chocolate Cafe, Harrods is a chocoholics dream come true. Is there anything better than an all chocolate cafe? Godiva celebrates 90 years of success, mastering fine chocolate. The new commemorative pastry, the “1926” is the epitome of Godiva. It is as much a feast for the eyes as it is on the palate. An indulgent, floral, fragrant rose and raspberry dessert. A glistening dome topped elegantly with raspberry, and chocolate. The light rose-petal parfait and raspberry confit are delicately layered over moist raspberry financier cake and a crunchy feuilletine. The raspberry sauce seeps through the layers of this divine dessert. Available only for limited time in Godiva Chocolate Cafés in London, Istanbul, Shanghai, Beijing, Dubai and Abu Dhabi it’s obviously one not to be missed. Unsurprisingly, Godiva’s anniversary is marked by a limited edition box of chocolates. Belgian street artist Oli B has been commissioned to create a unique, modern, fun façade to the traditional chocolate. With the finest chocolates selected from each decade, the whole box is rather fabulous. The newest edition for 2016 […]
Corbico Jewellery
6 May 2016
Looking for the perfect gift for the special lady in your life or just wanting something lovely to add to your jewellery collection? Corbica jewellery have a beautiful collection, where you are sure to find the perfect necklace, bracelet or earrings. Our top pick has to be the Blue Crystal Liz earrings. Sophisticated and sparkly they are sure to glam up any outfit. The vintage drop is elegant and is clearly on trend. With scattered clear crystals and a large royal blue central crystal, they look quite luxurious. They will be great for occasional wear and we can’t wait to wear them. So if you are looking for a lovely last minute gift or jewellery to complement an outfit, be sure to check out Corbico Jewellery. The online range is fashionable and glamourous yet affordable. Items arrive quickly, and better still, fit through the door. The jewellery comes in a simple gift box, but there’s nothing to stop you putting them in a beautiful gift box, like this one from the V&A museum for the perfect way to present them as a gift. The anticipation of opening a beautiful gift can be almost as exciting as the gift itself. The Liz Earings are on sale now for just £12.99 from Corbico Jewellery *Disclaimer: Concierge Angel were gifted […]
Ended-Win 2 Tickets for Immersive Theatre Show “The Wedding Reception”
6 May 2016
Competition now closed- Congratulations to the winner @Holly_Hewitt on Instagram Win 2 tickets for London Show “The Wedding Reception“ Competition closes Monday 31st 2016. We are giving away a pair of tickets to the fabulous immersive theatre show “The Wedding Reception” complete with three course meal. Win 2 tickets to be used for the London show on your chosen date in June or July 2016. They may share the names of the world’s most famous couple, but this Will & Kate are far from royal! Their dream was for a small intimate wedding, but with everyone else planning exactly the opposite, the couple eloped. Now it’s the date of their original wedding day and they’re back for the big reception – the one that neither of them wanted in the first place. What could possibly go wrong??!! Join the party. It’s a roller-coaster journey full of fun, frolics and more than a few surprises. To enter, simply enter via Facebook, Twitter or Instagram- 1.Share and like our post and like both Concierge Angel and the The Wedding Reception Facebook page or via twitter – RT and follow both 2. Retweet post and follow both Concierge Angel and The Wedding Reception on Twitter 3. Like post & regram & follow Concierge […]
Ma’Plucker’s Lizzie’s 90th Birthday Afternoon Tea
27 April 2016
Ma’Plucker is rather fittingly tucked away in Beak Street, Soho and serving Lizzie’s 90th Birthday Afternoon Tea. The décor is all a bit retro, with geometrics that will transport you back to the seventies. Their American style afternoon tea, served on a wooden platter, looks mouth-wateringly good. Resisting the temptation to start with the donuts, the bite size mini burgers of pulled chicken and rotisserie chicken were delicious. Maple syrup and chicken is such an American concept and defies all logic and really shouldn’t work. But in fact, the hot, fried, crispy coated chicken served on a maple waffle with maple, chilli glaze was actually rather delicious. I think we could get used to it. The sugar dusted, diddy donuts with caramel sauce were great. Slightly sceptical about Ma’s chocolate and corn flake scotch egg; thankfully it was all sweet and there was no egg involved. It was a chilled, creamy white chocolate cheesecake like centre surrounded by crispy cornflakes served in an egg cup. Finally, a sweet waffle topped with strawberry jam and whipped cream was the icing on the cake. This afternoon tea will leave you content however we couldn’t resist the “Crack & cheeze.” We have literally been dying for this to make it […]
Mr Todiwala’s Kitchen Restaurant
25 April 2016
Cyrus Todiwala has brought a sensational Indian restaurant to the Hilton, London Heathrow Terminal 5. The décor is sophisticated, modern and shabby chic, and yes there is actually an enormous, hand carved, beautiful elephant taking centre stage in the restaurant. This is no ordinary Indian restaurant, as it takes you on a journey inspired by traditional North Indian street food, to South Indian and Parsee cuisine. Each dish is exceptional, refined and created with finesse. The hot mushroom soup was a lovely amuse bouche served in a small teacup. Beetroot seems to be trendy this season and Mr Todiwala’s Kitchen have cleverly created a beetroot and coconut samosa in a crisp pastry. it’s quite different from your usual samosa, with a deep red filling that’s a subtle combination of sweet and savoury. The tandoori dishes were all perfectly charred, smoky and really delicious. The paneer was soft and well seasoned, whilst the chicken tikka and the melt in the mouth Beef Laal Aur tender, and bursting full of flavour. The dahi sev channa poori were little crispy shells packed with potato, chickpeas topped with refreshing chilli yoghurt, and tamarind with crispy vermicelli, and pomegranate exploding with every bite. The textures and flavour make this a really great starter. The Frankie lamb was slightly unusual as a […]
The Cooking Academy, Rickmansworth
19 April 2016
One can’t help but dream about the bustling Damnoen Saduak Floating Market at the mention of Thai cuisine. A cherished memory of being on a long boat, absorbing the aromas of amazing food whilst nibbling on pork, satay and Pad Thai. A day at The Cooking Academy actually enabled us to recreate these fond memories of Thailand with a Chaing Mai inspired menu. Lovely Kumud imparted pearls of wisdom and terrific tips throughout the day. Appreciating good food really does require an understanding of properties, aromas, and tastes. From demystifying the chilli spectrum to tasting raw ingredients such as galangal, turmeric, and cinnamon; it was all part of understanding the flavours being cooked with. Sniffing the pungent shrimp pastes and fish sauces to gauge how even these scents can be balanced and absorbed by a dish, whilst miraculously enhancing the taste. Destemming kaffir lime leaves to release their beautiful aroma and nipping cuts in Lemongrass for it’s fragrance, was clearly the key secret. As much as we love fine dining there’s something rather satisfying about cooking up a storm in the kitchen. Especially in someone else’s kitchen, which means no washing up! The recipes were all simple and achieved mouth-watering results. The Prawn Toast, was light, and crispy with a perfect sesame crunch. The succulent pork on lemongrass […]
Tasting the New Spring Menu at The Perch, Oxford
18 April 2016
Set amongst the meadows of Binsey, The Perch is a quintessentially British gastropub, that has beautifully preserved it’s 17th century heritage. It’s traditional thatched roof, with smoke bellowing from the chimney is charming. There’s a rustic feel, as the log fire burns, making it all rather cosy. The Perch’s new Spring Menu is worth venturing out for and it’s clearly popular amongst locals, with a full house mid week. The Butchers Board starter was a hearty platter exploding with smoked goose, home corned beef, Kelmscott salami, country pork pate,and served with a warm, rustic, homemade bread. The Charred Sprouting Broccoli, was fresh and buttery, topped with a perfectly poached duck egg served with fried, crunchy, salty capers. The meaty Chargrilled 8oz Burger,came fully loaded with farmhouse cheddar, bacon & tomato relish. Triple cooked chips are a guilty pleasure that we can never resist and were cooked to perfection. The Free-Range Pork Belly, on a bed of tangy scrumpy braised carrots, with crackling & pear mustard was delicious. One cannot visit a pub without trying their homemade dessert, especially when there is crumble on the menu. Even if it means loosening a belt, or popping a button, it is well worth it. This was no ordinary crumble. The Binsey Apple & Ginger crumble was fragrant and heart warming. The unique ginger and apple combination was […]
Nice Nails Baby Beauty Subscription
18 April 2016
Receiving a parcel is always exciting, especially when the contents are a surprise. Nice Nails Baby have just launched a novel, beauty subscription service, posting out carefully selected beauty products. They promise to bring consumers exclusive access to high end beauty brands and products. The Nice Nails Baby tote bag came with a small selection of premium, sample OPI products. A selection of items we didn’t know we needed but now couldn’t live without. Having just chipped a nail, the nail strengthener couldn’t have come at a better time. The OPI ginger lily hand and body lotion was lovely, leaving the hands beautifully soft and well moisturised and smelling beautiful with a light fruity, floral fragrance. There are never enough hours in the day to allow nails to dry so the quick drying top coat is a god send. These products are a great introduction to home nail care and achieving the perfect manicure. Treat yourself or gift a Nice Nails Baby subscription for a momentous occasion, to a special lady. Whether it’s a birthday or anniversary it’s sure to make her smile every month. Order yours now from Nice Nails Baby *Disclaimer: Concierge Angel were gifted complimentary samples. However, […]
UK Blog Awards Debenhams Gala Event
13 April 2016
By now you must have heard, Concierge Angel has been shortlisted as a finalists in the “Food & Drink” category in the UK Blog Awards. If you haven’t – where have you been? Sponsor, Debenhams invited blogger finalists and judges to mingle at an exclusive Gala event at their flagship Oxford Street Store. It was a fabulous evening with champagne, canapés and Nails Inc. manicures for the ladies. All glammed up, the Debenhams fashion team were at the ready with style tips. The evening was full of inspiration for the upcoming awards, with beautiful gowns for the ladies, sleek suits for the gents and perfectly co-ordinated accessories to browse. Feeling slightly spoilt for choice by the stunning collections, we were delighted to hear that Debenhams offer a complimentary personal shopping experience. We will be booking in to find our dream dress. With the eagerly anticipated UK Blog awards merely a few weeks away now, we’re getting ever so excited for the big night on the 29th April. If you fancy a bit of shopping like us, be sure to enter our competition to win £500. Debenhams, Oxford Street, London. With thanks to the Debenhams team for the images.
London’s Most Amazing Dessert Restaurant – Café at Hotel Café Royal
12 April 2016
London is packed full of remarkable restaurants, so it can be rather overwhelming when one is asked to choose a favourite. That was until we discovered The Café at Hotel Café Royal. As the first dessert restaurant in London to be serving three courses of decadent dessert, it’s affirmed, this is our absolute favourite. Expectations are always going to be set high when you walk into the five star, opulent Hotel Café Royal. The décor is sophisticated and the marble gives a feeling of grandeur. Executive Pastry Chef, Sarah Barber has ingeniously formulated an Alice in Wonderland inspired menu, with exquisite desserts that are as much a feast for the eyes as they are tantalizing to the taste buds. The delicious deconstructed Rhubarb & Custard is served as a chilled crumble in a petite pot, rhubarb topped with a vanilla custard and a sugar dusted pastry. The Chantilly Cream served in a tube is a lovely accompaniment. The Eat Me, Drink Me is a charming combination of creamy layers with nutty chocolate, topped with a peanut brittle and a caramel cream served with a malt shake in glass bauble. The Jaffa Cake in no way resembles a simple Jaffa Cake. There’s […]
Ended – Win a box of Custom Cookie Co Queen’s 90th Birthday cookies
8 April 2016
Custom Cookie Co Competition- Closed. Congratulation Ruth Pickford on Facebook is the winner!! To mark Her Majesty the Queen’s 90th Birthday we are giving away a yummy box of handmade Custom Cookie Co Celebratory Cookies Ends midnight 20th April 2016 and winner will be announced on Her Majesty the Queen’s 90th Birthday 21st April 2016. Win an amazing box of special Cookies freshly baked and hand decorated by Custom Cookie Co It’s simple to enter-by Facebook, Twitter or Instagram- enter on one or all platforms to increase your chance of winning. Retweet and follow @CustomCookieCo and @ConciergeAngel on Twitter Like & Follow & Share on Facebook CustomCookieCo and Concierge Angel Like and Follow on Instagram CustomCookieCo and Conciergeangel Terms & Conditions No purchase is necessary. Competitions are open to all UK residents except our employees, the companies or organisations with whom the competition or offer is being run, their agents, or anyone directly connected with the promotion. This competition is run with Custom Cookie Co who are responsible for the provision of the prize. ConciergeAngel will not be responsible for or have any liability for the provision of the prize. We reserve in all cases the right to replace the stated prizes with other prizes […]
Origins of – Spitalfields Newest Restaurant
7 April 2016
Taking over Blessing’s Bar from April 7th, Abdulla Amin and Hugo Toland’s Middle Eastern-inspired take on traditional recipes bring a new flavour to the plates of London. With a casual, and cool vibe, platters of spice infused fried chicken, buttermilk soaked cauliflower florets and a vibrant betroot falafel are served on mini charred flat breads, with a variety of sauces – Tahini Hype, Scotch Bonnet Mayo, Fresh Sweet Chilli, Honey Mustard BBQ and Sumac Yoghurt. Origins Of, 76 Commercial Street, E1 6LY *Disclaimer: Concierge Angel were complimentary guests. However, all opinions belong to Concierge Angel, unless otherwise stated. Images provided by Origins of.
London’s Newest Restaurant- Anglo, Farringdon
5 April 2016
There’s a new gem in Hatton Garden- and it’s “Anglo.” Opened just last week, Anglo is bringing the best of British fine dining to a contemporary restaurant in the heart of London. The tasting menu is an inspired, showcase of culinary skills from the accomplished, Chef Mark Jarvis, formerly at The Bingham, Blueprint Cafe, Zuma, Texture and Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, alongside esteemed head chef, Jack Cashmore, of Sat Bains and In De Wul. The seven course tasting menu is actually more like ten, terrific courses. Served to the table by the modest chefs themselves, each dish is executed perfectly, and meticulously arranged with finesse. The clever combination of beetroot served as a creamy purée, with diced beetroot, rolled in a delicate, crisp, cone worked beautifully. Adorned with edible flowers, came the delightful Loch Duart salmon tartare with dashi. The bitesize, crumbly, burnt leek tartlet was light and airy with a crisp pastry shell. The St Georges mushrooms were tossed in a mouth-watering, rich sauce. The stone bass with white asparagus and mussels was elegant and fresh. The Longhorn beef aged for forty-nine days was succulent, and juicy, served with glazed shallots and wild garlic. Before the eagerly anticipated desserts, […]
Donut Ice Cream Sandwich- Bird, Camden
4 April 2016
The Bird Restaurant is a trendy Camden joint serving the donut dream. Following years of searching for the infamous cronut, we found this rather indulgent concoction – the donut ice cream sandwich. We often do dessert before a meal as why must you wait until you are a bit full and the end of the day to get to the best bit? Although most people have a, non scientifically proven, separate compartment for dessert, there’s something a bit cheeky about skipping the savouries and just jumping straight to the dessert. It goes against the rules but it can be the best way to savour the flavours. The donut ice cream sandwich is such a brilliant, sugary treat. The Donut Hatch supply the glazed donuts, that were topped with mini Eggs, in the spirit of Easter. The donuts filled with ice cream, topped with cream, chocolate and salted caramel sauce are scrumptious. It’s a mouthful of sweetness, and probably about a thousand calories, well worth wondering down to Camden for. Everyone else seem to be tucking into free-range fried chicken, that looked rather delicious too, so we will have to dig into that next time. Bird Restaurant, 21-22 Chalk Farm Road, London NW1 8AG
Fire & Ice -The Best of Iceland
28 March 2016
A trip to Iceland was booked slightly naively, solely to hunt for the Northern Lights. Then realisation dawned that if we didn’t see them it would be a pretty disastrous trip. Fortunately Iceland has so much more to offer, than just the Northern Lights, so much so, we almost forgot they were the sole purpose of our visit. Although thrilled they made a brief appearance on the last day. Iceland is a large country with a small population, and lots of natural beauty. Reyjkavik is the largest city and has less than 150,000 inhabitants. Icelandair Marina Hotel makes a great base to explore Iceland. It’s a country of fire and ice. The country is blanketed in snow in December and can be compared to pictures on Christmas cards. With mountains, volcanoes and glaciers and black sand beaches all covered in white snow, it’s absolutely beautiful. Wrapped up warm, it’s like you are surrounded by white fluffy marshmallow clouds. Along the south coast volcanoes are encased by glaciers and have wonderful waterfalls, cascading through crevices. The Geysir is a natural hot spring phenomena, which is active and bubbles, hurtling a jet of water and steam every five minutes. The Golden Circle Gull Foss […]
Michelin Star Restaurant- Pollen Street Social, London
25 March 2016
Head chef Jason Atherton is pulling out all the stops at Michelin Star restaurant, Pollen Street Social. It’s hip and trendy in the heart of London, tucked away just off Regent Street. It has a lovely ambience, with quite a buzz around the bar. The cocktails topped with roses were rather lovely Sophisticated starters were presented on a stand and included churros with goats cheese for dipping. The pine smoked Quail, “English breakfast” is phenomenal. The quail comes out in a smoking box with a mouth-watering, smoky mist diffusing out. Accompanied with quail broth, wild mushrooms topped with quail egg, this dish is rather impressive. The modern fine dining menu boasts beautiful, meticulously arranged dishes, that are rich and indulgent The Chocolate Marquise of tempered chocolate filled with praline, milk mousse served with a honey ice cream was decadently topped with gold leaf. Followed by bite size cone sorbets with cupcakes and meringue were a lovely treat, enjoyed at the bar. Pollen Street Social is perfect for a special romantic anniversary or even a big birthday celebration. Pollen Street Social, 10 Pollen Street, London W1S 1NQ
Life Size Monopoly, Dubai
24 March 2016
Monopoly has to be our all time favourite childhood, Hasbro board game. The Christmas tradition of getting out the board game and playing day and night over the course of the holiday week, accruing debts and taking loans brings back fond memories. There was usually a bit of underhanded stealing from the bank during breaks, and it usually ended with a disgruntled sibling folding the board and demolishing all the houses and hotels if they didn’t land on “Mayfair.” Since the evolution of tablets and technology, digital Monopoly is not quite as exciting as it used to be. With auto roll of the dice, and no loans or I.O.U’s available, and no possibility of cheating it has become less exhilarating. Imagine the delight when we found our favourite board game in the form of a gigantic, life size monopoly board in The Mall of The Emirates, Dubai. This was complete with an actual prison cell for you when you were dealt with those infamous words “Go to jail, go directly to jail, do not pass go,” With a policeman to escort you there, Mr Monopoly hosted the game clutching his stick and stroking his perfect moustache. Drawing in the crowds, we queued […]
The Lodge, Clapham
23 March 2016
Fancy being transported to a chalet in the Alps without braving the slopes? Verebier Ski resort have actually made this possible with Jimmy’s at The Lodge, Clapham. You can sip cocktails in this nostalgic, cosy, Swiss inspired wooden lodge, scattered with fur throws, and skis. Head chef, Jimmy Garcia has created a hearty Alpine menu. The Burrata Salad starter, sprinkled with hazelnut crumb was a rainbow of colours and an explosion of flavours. It’s fresh and summery with a perfect balance of creamy mozzarella with bursts of flavour from Blood oranges and pomegranate. There’s a great vibe on a Sunday with “Bottomless Bubbles,” making it the perfect spot for a Sunday Roast. The pork belly was succulent and topped with a crispy crackling, served on a platter, scattered with roast potatoes, root vegetables and apple crisps. The giant Yorkshire puddings with rich, beef gravy were really indulgent. The accompanying pear and cardamom purée is pure genius, with flavours that truly tantalises the taste buds. We couldn’t resist trying the signature fondue. And were ever so glad we did. There’s something heartwarming about dipping buttery potatoes and bread in a bubbling pot of Swiss cheese. The fondue is fun and perfect for sharing, unless you’re […]
Thakers Indian Street Food, West London
20 March 2016
We found this trendy, hidden gem in West London serving vegetarian, Indian street food. The interesting mural on the wall of Indian street vendors with British icons is an eye catching, fabulous focal point. The chilli paneer is a perfect balance of masalas and dashings of salty soya sauce and hints of ginger. Our favourite was the dahi puri. Little crispy shells stuffed with mashed potatoes, topped with a yoghurt, mint and tamarind sauce, topped off with pomegranate. They were like little bombs bursting full of flavour. The menu is extensive and it’s a great spot for a quick, delicious lunch. Thakers, 162 A/B High Street, Hounslow TW3 1BQ
Top 5 Easter Treats
17 March 2016
Easter has become a big celebration with public holidays to gorge on Easter Eggs. We have found some unique, luxury gifts to make it an “eggcelent” Easter Godiva Chocolate Pearl Easter Egg GODIVA has the perfect Egg selection for every chocolate lover this Easter. The Chocolate Pearl Easter egg, is a milk chocolate hollow egg set with a cluster of chocolate pearls, tiny orbs of chocolate perfection. A beautiful gift, thoughtfully presented in an elegant box. Custom Cookie Co Custom Cookie Co make freshly baked cookies, topped with colourful, intricately detailed icing. These are a delicious and fun Easter gift. Infused with a hint of ginger and vanilla they smell divine. Brimming full of Easter egg cookies, little chicks, and the Easter bunny, they are elegantly presented in a sleek gift box. They are sure to impress as they look just as good as they taste. We loved them so much we are having an Easter competition and giving away a box of these yummy cookies. Enter Now. Wickedly Welsh Chocolate Easter is all about chocolate. Handmade Wickedly Welsh Chocolate have a fabulously indulgent range of treats. Their chocolate is creamy, and rich and rather indulgent. The peanut butter bar is subtly flavoured, swirly, smooth and sumptuous. These are […]
Coombe Abbey Hotel, Warwickshire
6 March 2016
Set amongst 500 acres of woodland, Coombe Abbey is a fascinating, historic country hotel in Warwickshire. It’s the perfect setting for a fairytale wedding. From the moment you walk in you feel like you are in the 12th century. Meeting and conference rooms are tucked away along long, dimly candlelit corridors lined with statues. There’s an ere of royal, medieval oppulence. The Garden Bar adorned with gold damask is luxurious and the sticky toffee pudding was indulgent and perfectly sweet. Buffet breakfast served in the bright conservatory Garden Restaurant was delightful. The well appointed rooms are comfortable and spacious, overlooking manicured lawns and a lake. The afternoon tea is splendid. With an assortment of decadent cakes and scrumptious scones and sandwiches it is not to be missed. Coombe Abbey was perfectly romantic for Valentine’s Day. It is so stunning and unique, it’s perfect for weddings, special birthday or anniversary celebrations or even conferences. Coombe Abbey Hotel, Brinklow Road, Binley, Warwickshire, CV3 2ABCoo
Ended- Easter Competition
5 March 2016
Easter Competition- now closed. Congratulations Helen Cant from Durham – you are the winner Ends midnight Monday 21st March 2016 Win an amazing box of special Easter Cookies freshly baked and hand decorated by Custom Cookie Co It’s simple to enter-by Facebook, Twitter or Instagram- enter on one or all platforms to increase your chance of winning. Retweet and follow @CustomCookieCo and @ConciergeAngel on Twitter Like & Follow & Share on Facebook CustomCookieCo and Concierge Angel Like and Follow on Instagram CustomCookieCo and Conciergeangel Terms & Conditions No purchase is necessary. Competitions are open to all UK residents except our employees, the companies or organisations with whom the competition or offer is being run, their agents, or anyone directly connected with the promotion. This competition is run with Custom Cookie Co who are responsible for the provision of the prize. ConciergeAngel will not be responsible for or have any liability for the provision of the prize. We reserve in all cases the right to replace the stated prizes with other prizes that we consider to be of broadly equivalent value. There is no cash alternative for non-cash prizes, and prize winners must accept prizes in the form offered. Prizes are not refundable or transferable. […]
The Mermaid, London
29 February 2016
Concierge Angel were rather excited to be invited to the London venue, “The Mermaid,” to assist caterer’s, Create, finalise their seasonal Spring/Summer menu. With the sun beaming over the river, the fabulous feast served in the upper River Rooms was impressive. Canapés can only be described as little works of art. The lemon ceviche scallop sprinkled with desiccated coconut, and a hint of fresh, zesty mango was delightful, with a lovely crunch from the sesame tuille. The head chef’s pastry background, was clearly evident from the delicate arrangement of creamy goat’s cheese on a crisp toast, topped with a torched fig. The mouth-watering, bite-size duck topped with mango salsa was a perfect balance of flavours. The warm sea bass with rock salt, on a bed of lemon infused aioli was rather delicious. The platter of appetisers was a pleasure to tuck into. The unique, gourmet take on the fish and chips, of poached Pollok served with crushed new potatoes and fish crackling was appetising. The parmesan crème brulee served with horseradish, pickled beetroot and apple was a rich palate cleanser. The succulent free range chicken with wild mushrooms drizzled in a light madeira jus was a divine, substantial appetiser. The three main courses were indulgent. Charred bavette, with a tarragon and lemon jus served with fondant potato and Jacobs ladder croquette was hearty and wholesome. The light gnocchi tossed in a […]
The Chocolate Gallery, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Abu Dhabi
23 February 2016
As a self confessed chocolaholic staying at the Faimont Bab Al Bahr,The Chocolate Gallery was the first stop. Watching chocolatiers craft amazing fondants, cakes, ice cream and hot, molten melted chocolate. The chocolate shot really was sweet, creamy and decadent. It will leave you in a sugary coma but you can relax in the chic café. The decadent afternoon teas make this a great place to stop, overlooking the beach for indulgence. The Chocolate Gallery, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, Abu Dhabi
Hakkasan for Michelin Starred Dim Sum
22 February 2016
Michelin starred Hakkasan has to be the best place in town to have some dim sum. The dim sum is colourful and topped with caviar. It melts in your mouth and is rather moreish. Hakkasan is elegant and sophisticated and perfect to celebrate a special birthday or anniversary. Hakkasan Hanway Place, London
Experimental Perfume Club
22 February 2016
The Experimental Perfume Club Masterclass is a novel, immersive experience in London. Tucked away in Holborn’s Cockpit Arts Open Studios, French fragrance expert, Emmanuelle Moeglin imparted a wealth of knowledge and demystified the art of perfume. Deconstructing perfume and marvelling over the fundamental ingredients, was rather insightful. With twenty-five raw scents, overwhelming our olfactory system, a quick sniff of our wrist in between each scent, seemed to reset our sense of smell. With an array of aromatic, floral, woody, leathery, citrus and fruity smells, realisation dawned on how complex fragrance actually is and how little we had really known about it. As Emmanuel wisely said, smell is not taught in the same way we are taught to recognise colours, and perhaps it should be. Especially when we struggled to recognise the smell of lemon. Without giving away all the secrets, perfume was perfectly simplified into three layers. The short lasting top notes, combined with the heart of the perfume that dominates, and the base which adds depth and tends to linger. Having unveiled the science of scent, we pondered over it with delicious, homemade lightly fragranced Madeleines, infused with orange blossom. Scribbling a bespoke formula of our favourite ten raw scents, we concocted a unique perfume, with guidance from […]
Mother’s Day Luxury Gift Guide
20 February 2016
Follow my blog with Bloglovin Mother’s Day is fast approaching and finding the perfect gift can be a challenge. We have found some unique, luxury gifts that we think would make most Mum’s smile. Experimental Perfume Club Treat mum to a unique, immersive experience which is sure to delight. Explore fragrances and learn the art of scent whilst conjuring up your own bespoke perfume under the nose of lovely, French industry expert, Emmanuel Moeglin. Book a voucher for two and Save 10% on Experimental Perfume Club Goddess Rocks – Me Me Me The golden, luxury bronzing Goddess rocks from Me Me Me are a perfect gift to add a bit of sparkle. They are elegantly, Illuminating and uplifting and would probably work well with all skin complexions. Prêt à Pousser Bring nature’s magic to the kitchen for Mum’s with green fingers. She is sure to love growing organic, edible oyster mushrooms guaranteed to grow in just ten days. With a spritz of water twice per day she can enjoy watching gorgeous grey, yellow, or pink mushrooms blossoming from the box. Con Gusto Catering Give Mum a night off and hire a private Michelin trained chef for the evening to prepare […]
Pancake Day at Noord-Brabant Pancake, Amsterdam
16 February 2016
Dutch pancakes in the Netherlands have to be the best way of embracing Pancake Day. Dutch pancakes are known as panneoken and quite different from American pancakes and French crepes. They are light, flatter, larger and served studded with savoury or sweet ingredients. Noord-Brabant Pancake is a quaint, traditional restaurant serving delightful pancakes topped with pork, salad and fries. The pork is succulent and juicy with a splash of tomato chili. The dessert pancakes of sweet, sliced apple interlaced into the pancake. Served with lashings of maple syrup and sugar this absolute gem. Definitely the best place to spend Pancake Day. Pancake Day at Noord-Brabant Pancake, Breedstraat 8, 3633 AX Vreeland, The Netherlands
Blossoming Gifts Flowers
15 February 2016
There’s always something special about receiving flowers. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, Valentine’s or Mother’s Day, flowers tend to make people happy. Perhaps even more so when they are an unexpected surprise for no particular reason. Gone are the days of grabbing flowers from a petrol station or having to visit a local florist for a hand tied bouquet. Blossoming Gifts offer a wide range of beautiful flowers online, available for next day home delivery. The gifts come beautifully packaged in a sturdy box, arriving fresh and without a petal out of place. Anyone would be thrilled to receive a gorgeous multicoloured spray of roses, from Blossoming Gifts, which is just stunning. The bouquet is bursting full of what looks like, at least a hundred vibrant, bold roses. The sophisticated fusion of bright yellow with splashes of red roses, are unique and really rather pretty. The lightly fragranced baby pink roses, peachy orange, and deep red roses compliment these perfectly. The colourful roses release a the most gentle, yet uplifting scent. With plenty of buds ready to bloom these flowers become even more beautiful as the days go on. Flowers are perfect for most occasions. Consider adding a vase, chocolates […]
Ended- Mother’s Day Competition
14 February 2016
Competition Now Closed Congratulations Sarah Sparkes you are the lucky winner. Competition- Win a bouquet of Flowers for Mother’s Day Make Mum smile. Win a gorgeous bouquet of flowers from Blossoming Gifts for Mother’s Day on Sunday 6th March 2016. Just enter your email address and the address you want your flowers to be sent if you win. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram. Competition ends 1st March 2016 at Midnight. Winner will be informed by e-mail on 2nd March 2016. Just fill in your details below, to be in with a chance of winning. By entering you agree to being added to the Blooming Gifts online mailing list. Addresses provided will not be shared except for the winning recipient for receipt of flowers only. Terms & Conditions No purchase is necessary. Competitions are open to all UK residents except our employees, the companies or organisations with whom the competition or offer is being run, their agents, or anyone directly connected with the promotion. This competition is run with Blossoming Gifts who are responsible for the provision of the prize. ConciergeAngel will not be responsible for or have any liability for the provision of the prize. We reserve in […]
Valentine’s Day Special featuring Celebrity Chef- Valentine Warner’s Three Course Menu
11 February 2016
Valentine’s day is a great excuse to show your partner how much you love them. Romance is inexpensive and is really about thoughtful gestures. Luxury gifts and fine dining are often well received, but nothing can beat a romantic night in. Light some candles, sprinkle some rose petals, have a good bottle of wine and impress your other half by cresting a gastronomic feast. “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” rings true. If only you could cook like a chef. Now you can, with an inspirational three course aphrodisiac, celebrity chef menu by Valentine Warner. It will tantalise your taste buds and create a perfectly seductive night in. The menu is simple but sumptuous and sure to delight, however primitive your culinary skill-set. The Shrimp cocktail Mexico style starter is quick to prepare and makes a great sharing starter platter. Infused full of flavour, the shrimp and avocado topped with a tangy coriander relish, exuberates refreshing flavours. The glistening beef, seasoned with fennel and rosemary served with charred artichoke hearts is rather delicious. The ratte potatoes and pine nuts tossed in a tarragon, basil and Dijon mustard dressing is perfectly aromatic and nutty. Dessert is divine, and the […]
World Nutella Day, Hummingbird Bakery, Richmond
7 February 2016
As cupcake connoisseurs, finding the perfect cupcake is life’s mission. February 5th marked World Nutella Day, when we found the “Nutella” cupcake at the Hummingbird Bakery. A light, airy chocolate cupcake topped with a smooth, sweet, chocolatey Nutella buttercream. It’s pure genius, blending buttercream and Nutella for the perfect cupcake topping. Topped with a handful of hazelnuts, adds a perfect crunch to the cupcake. Nutella is our weaknesses, as it’s equally versatile as it is delicious. The Hummingbird Bakery has popped up around London and in Dubai. They have a lovely selection of cakes for Valentine’s Day. Their American style red velvet and salted caramel cakes are definitely worth a try too. Better still try out their recipe book, and recreate their marvellous recipes. Hummingbird Bakery, 3 The Quadrant, Richmond, Surrey, TW9 1BP
Exciting News: We are finalists in the UK Blog Awards
31 January 2016
ConciergeAngel has been short-listed as a finalist in the UK Blog Awards in the “Food & Drink Category.” We would like to thank all our avid readers for your support. We are so excited that our blog could be in with a chance of winning such a prestigious award. We will be keeping our fingers and toes crossed until the big night in April 2016.
The Lava Restaurant, Iceland
30 January 2016
Carved into a lava cliff, The Lava Restaurant is an unforgettable dining experience. There are breathtaking views over The Blue Lagoon. Mesmerising and delicious this has to be one of the most remarkable restaurants in the whole world. It can only be described as modern, casual fine dining. Guests are being welcomed in their robes from the spa and others in snow boots. The menu was delectable. A warm bread baskets is always a nice start to a meal but at The Lava Restaurant this was out of this world. There was warm sour dough bread and cinnamon bread with hints of orange en-laced in the dough which smelled divine. The bread served with whipped butter on lava rock was delectable. The starter of Arctic Char, Icelandic fish topped with spiral cucumber, fennel, pearl onion and toasted bread aioli. The slow cooked rack of lamb was succulent and tender. The dish was infused with diced apples, a mint jus, cabbage and smoked onion. It was a perfect combination and rather delicious. Astarpungar were warm fluffy doughnut like balls served with chocolate mouse and vanilla ice cream crystals and salted caramel. The Lava Restaurant will be a memory cherished. Picturesque views with […]
Valentine’s Day: Luxury Gift Guide For Him
30 January 2016
Choosing the ideal gift for the man in your life can be extremely difficult so we are hoping to provide you some luxurious inspiration. Trying to stay away from classics of aftershave, cuff links and ties we have some unique recommendations. Flaviar Long gone the days of just getting magazine subscriptions. You can now get subscriptions to discover the world of Spirits. Flaviar allows you to experience the best spirits from all over the world and discover new drinks and promote abetter and healthier way of enjoying Spirits.This is sure to impress the drink connoisseurs. Becky Broome British lifestyle brand, design and hand-etch a range of personalised gifts, glasses and barware. Why not get a personalised gift like ‘Loves His Beer’d’ Tankard as a perfect addition to a well stocked bar. Rebus For the man who likes to accesorise, a bespoke hand engraved ring from Hatton Garden’s Jeweller, Rebus, is a gift he can cherish. Sophisticated pieces bearing his initials or Talisman are our favourites. Bulldog iPhone Speaker Dock Men have a bizarre love for speakers and dogs. If he loves gadgets why not surprise him with life size Bulldog dock from Harrods. It’s sure to impress. Black Diamond Facial, Four Seasons, London Men secretly love […]
The Langham, London
22 January 2016
The Langham is a legendary, iconic, luxurious London hotel. From the moment you enter you will be mesmerised by the smell which is just so dreamy. It wafts throughout the hotel and is absolutely delightful. Located at the edge of Regent’s Street the location is perfect for a weekend staycation in London. Boasting fabulous restaurants, a patiserrie and spa, you won’t want to leave. It’s a perfect place to celebrate a memorable anniversary. The rooms are simple yet elegantly appointed and The Langham team will ensure a memorable celebration. The Langham, London
Afternoon Tea at Hilton Syon Park
22 January 2016
Afternoon tea is such an indulgent British treat. Venture out of the city to enjoy a lovely afternoon tea in Syon Park. Situated in the Duke of Northumberland’s Estate it’s a classic, decadent afternoon tea with warm scones, sweet cakes, finger sandwiches and endless pots of tea. It’s all fine dining yet relaxed. Summer days can see you enjoying the afternoon tea outside. Vouchers for an afternoon tea for a couple, make a lovely gift for an anniversary or even for a memorable wedding gift. Hilton Syon Park, London Syon Park, Middlesex TW8 8JF
Ended- Valentine’s Day Competition- Win a Love Box
20 January 2016
Valentine’s Day Competition – Competition now Closed- Winner @ezziemakeup on Twitter. Enter before midnight Sunday 7th February 2016 ConciergeAngel.com is delighted to give you an exclusive opportunity to win a fabulously, luxurious romantic Ooh! Collection Lovebox in time for Valentine’s Day, as featured in our Luxury Valentine’s Day Gift Guide. To be in with a chance to win all you need to do is “Share the most romantic hotel you have been to” and Tweet us both on Twitter or comment on our Facebook pages, making sure you LIKE & SHARE ConciergeAngel and Ooh Collection. One lucky winner will get a peek inside the newly launched Ooh! Collection range of gorgeous, sophisticated loveboxes with a selection of sensual accessories designed to set the scene for romance and seduction. The loveboxes are filled with all you need to surprise and delight your partner to create a memorable romantic experience. Ooh! Collection loveboxes bring a little bit of naughtiness all wrapped up in beautiful packaging, aimed to thrill and delight. Whether you are looking to woo your lover with rose petals and massage oil, and heart shaped chocolates or if you really want to turn up the heat with toys, games, sex toys, […]
Valentine’s Day: Luxury Gift Guide For Her
20 January 2016
Choosing the ideal gift for the lady in your life can be extremely difficult. After years of birthdays, Christmas and anniversary’s finding the “wow” present can be challenging. Every man wants to spoil his lady with luxury whatever your budget. Take inspiration from our luxury gift ideas she is sure to love. Christian Louboutin Nail varnish Every woman would love to own something Christian Louboutin. Pop into Harrods or Selfridges to pick up this nail varnish she will want to cherish and is sure to be pretty impressed with. We recommend the “Rouge” as it is a gorgeous deep red that your special lady will love. Love Umbrellas These are so pretty, she will absolutely love these. She will be wishing for more rainy days to take this out, as a must have accessory. Mon Dessert Mon Dessert are delightful “make your own” macaron kits that are perfect for the sophisticated foodie, as seen at Fortnum & Mason. She will be even more delighted if you volunteer a hand to help her make them. Chins Kitchen Handmade Artisan, modern, Indian inspired cakes, infused with a perfectly balanced blend of spices, and will be a wonderful gift for the refined palate. Their new online shop launches on February 1st and […]
Lumiere London
17 January 2016
London’s illuminated by the Artichoke Trust, in a free four day light festival from 14th until 17th Januray 2016. We were handed some maps and went in search of the light installations. Braving the cold were thousands of people with the same idea. January is usually quiet in London but it almost felt like it was the peak of New Year’s Eve. The free event that injected culture and colour to the city really drew in the crowds. Clutching our map it took us back to being a child on a treasure hunt. The roads were all closed to traffic and the roads pedestrianized and swarming. There was a great vibe and London felt alive with a kaleidoscope of colour. With art pieces all over the city we started on Oxford Street and marvelled at the multi-coloured “London, by Echelman”. We walked through Regent Street spotting illuminated stick men crawling up and down the buildings to music in “Keyframes, by Group Lapse and Thomas Veyssiere. At Liberty we caught a glimpse of the fabulous “Desses, by Tae gon KIM.” Dodging crowds we managed to get to Carnaby Sreet which is always has some light installations. But hundreds flocked to see the moving […]
The Blue Lagoon, Iceland
5 January 2016
The Blue Lagoon in Iceland was a surreal experience. In -2 degrees Celsius the thought of braving the elements in swimwear was slightly daunting. The changing rooms are well equipped with heated floors and sophisticated locker systems. We were impressed with the well maintained, pristine, luxury facilities, given this is a tourist hotspot. You can rent towels, slippers and robes for a comfortable spa day. You can also take advantage of massages, face masks to enhance the experience. The geothermal spa is warmed naturally to 38 degrees Celsius. Fortunately you can wade through from an indoor pool into the outdoors. This is a great way to get you acclimatised to the temperatures. As the cold air hits your face the warm water embraces you. Surrounded by mountains snowed in its one of the most amazing places we have been to. It is unimaginable that you could be relaxing in naturally hot lagoon whilst it snows. The 6 million litres of water is enriched with silica, algae and minerals and takes 48 hours to replenishes itself. We were truly marvelled by this experience. The snow falling whilst we bathed made it even more exhilarating. Somehow your face is resilient to the […]
Kol, Reykjavík
5 January 2016
Kol has a lovely, modern Icelandic feel and serves some of the best cocktails and food in Iceland. With experienced head chef, Einar Hjaltason and Karl Porsteinsson having worked at London’s Le Manoir Aux Quat Saisons, Dabbous, and Noma in Copenhagen we had high expectations. The menu is varied and service friendly and attentive. The homemade lemonade of lemon, orange and grapefruit with a sprig of mint was rather refreshing. The warm bread was infused with fruit and served with a light, airy whipped butter. The lamb topped with barley, goats cheese and carrot tempura was divine. The cod was cooked to perfection with charred iceberg lettuce and molasses. The ambience adds to the dining experience. We would recommend this for a special evening in Iceland or before an evening to search for the Northern Lights. Kol, Skolavoroustigur 40, Reykjavik 101, Iceland
Fish Restaurant, Reyjkavik
4 January 2016
Iceland is renowned for fishing so it is a must to savour some of the fresh fish by the old harbour. The Reyjkavik Fish Restaurant is in the Old Harbour area. It’s a nautically themed and the breaded cod and chips are the gem on the menu. The batter was light and crispy and the meal itself hearty. The fish is freshly caught. Sometimes simple fish and chips is all you need. It’s quite casual and great for groups to relax, at the end of a day of exploration in Iceland.Fish Restaurant, Ingolfsstraeti 8, & Skolavoroustig 23, Reykjavik 101, Iceland
Café Babalu, Reyjkavik
4 January 2016
After a day exploring Reyjkavik, Café Babulu is a stone throw from the Hallgrimskirkja Church. The quaint establishment is adorned with interesting objects that looked like they were collected from all over the world over numerous years. There were dolls, elves, trolls, and even a retro pac man amongst it all. Notes of money were hanging on the pillars, with a cuckoo clock ticking and coming to life on the hour. A cafe with a lot of character and a really snug, warm homely feel that you won’t want to leave. We couldn’t resist some hot chocolate, topped with whipped cream at the quirky Cafe Babalu. The hot apple crumble was topped with oats and maple syrup and was delectable. We will have to pop back to try the Nutella Cheesecake. This places is so lovely we would recommend it for a special afternoon tea. Café Babalu, Skólavörðustíg 22a, 101 Reykjavík
Please vote for us in the UK Blog Awards #UKBA16
4 January 2016
We are really excited to have been nominated for the UK blog awards. We are in two categories “most innovative” and “food and drink.” We launched our blog a few months ago and delighted with the feedback and would appreciate your continued support by voting for us in the UK Blog Awards. Vote now between Monday 4th January 2016 until Monday 25th January 2016 at 9pm.
Northern Lights, Iceland
1 January 2016
To catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights we booked a trip to Reyjkavik. We had our fingers and toes crossed to see the Northern Lights. The phenomena arises from charged particles from the sun reacting with the earth’s atoms causing electrons to move to a higher energy state. The drop of electrons energy state emit a photon of green light-the Aurora Borelias. It’s a cold time of year, with plenty of snow and chasing the Northern Lights requires patience in the cold. We packed in base layers which are a great way of keeping warm, fleeces, thermal legging, socks, hats and double layer gloves, and snow boots. We thought we would give the new WOW airline a go but there’s something that makes us resent having to pay extra for luggage. So after meticulous weighing by jumping on and off scales, subtracting the weight of our bags, determined not to exceed our allowance, we decided to wear our snow boots and ski jackets. We felt like silly, overdressed snowmen at the airport, but were relieved to see many others had done the same. With a six day trip booked in December we eagerly sat on the right side of the […]
The Corinthia Hotel, London
31 December 2015
The Corinthia Hotel is a grand, five star hotel with a prime London location, a stone throw from Embankment station. The Northall Bar and Restaurant are charming. The homemade artisan bread is rustic and deliciously served warm. The starter of salmon was presented meticulously with a multitude of flavour and sumptuous textures.. The gourmet take on Bubble and squeak, traditionally leftovers from Christmas dinner, was served topped with a poached egg. The sea bass served with a foam, gem lettuce was perfectly seasoned and delightfully balanced. The highlight had to be the gingerly dessert sprinkled with golden popping candy nuggets. Tangy and sweet, with little explosions in our mouth, this dessert tantalised our taste buds. The festive warm mini mince pies were sweet, with buttery pastry that melted in our mouth brimming full of a sweetly spiced filling. The Northall Bar & Restaurant has a delightful menu with attentive staff. The Corinthia Hotel is a glamorous venue for a wedding, and perfect for a special celebration. The Northall, Corinthia, Whitehall Place, London SW1A 2BD
Winter Wonderland 2015, London
19 December 2015
Winter in London is cold but embrace it and spend a heartwarming evening in Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland. With towering Christmas trees, and bright lights, it seems to be getting bigger and better every year. It’s free to absorb the atmosphere at Winter Wonderland. It’s packed full of Christmas craft markets, rides, fair ground games, and food stalls serving sizzling sausages, bbq burgers, sweet treats including hot donuts, churros, and crepes to name a few. Whether you fancy a hot chocolate loaded with marshmallows and cream or sipping cocktails at the ice bar, there’s definitely something for everyone. Some of the rides are slightly heart wrenching, and not for the faint hearted. Christmas jingles mask the screams. It’s always exciting going for a hop, skip and a jump through fun houses, bumping through mirror mazes and scrambling through the haunted houses. The ice rink with live music is rather charming. But if you are not so good on your feet the Magical Ice Kingdom is perhaps more appealing. It’s a freezing -8 degrees celsius but rather magical. Ice sculptures have come a long way from swans. With goblins and princesses, ogres and squirrels this is not to be missed. There’s […]
Time’s Square Ball Drop, New Year’s Eve, New York
7 December 2015
Ringing in the New Year, 2015, in New York was amazing. The infamous Ball Drop has to be the place to be in Manhattan on New Year’s Eve. It can be slightly overwhelming trying to figure out the logistics of being in the heart of it all. One million people packed into Time’s Square last year and it can only be described as organised chaos. It’s free to stand in Time’s Square but it does comes at a price. It’s absolutely freezing and once you enter a designated standing area, you can’t really leave and if you do, you won’t be allowed back in. People start standing from the early hours, as once Time’s Square is full, all the side roads leading up to Time’s Square are closed to traffic and pedestrians. Security is high and unless you have tickets for an event in the area or are staying in a hotel within the road blocks you will have to come into the area quite early to join in the party. The advantage of booking a party or restaurant in Time’s Square, most will have a designated standing area which you can join just before midnight to catch the Ball drop. There […]
The Pottery Tapas Bar, Kingston
5 December 2015
Spanish tapas are best enjoyed as a group. Small tapas plates are great for sharing and exploring a menu. The Pottery Tapas Bar is all twinkly with fairy lights which gives it a festive feeling. Chairs topped with Santa Clause covers gives it a quirky, fun feel. We savoured a few of the mouthwatering dishes from the extensive menu and they were all delicious. From the hearty portion of nachos smothered in guacamole, the crispy white bait, to the the flavoursome seafood paella. The lamb with mint gravy was succulent and well seasoned, the calamari in a garlic sauce was lovely too. The chorizo was great and the meatballs in a tangy tomato sauce were moreish. The moist chocolate cake topped with glacé cherries and a crown of a sweet spun sugar, was rather impressive. The service is excellent and although great for a group, the candlelit setting is quite romantic too.
Stoke Park Country Club, Spa & Hotel, Buckinghamshire
3 December 2015
Stoke Park is truly luxurious and one our favourite spas in England. The tree lined entrance is rather impressive. Transported to a relaxing haven, the manicured lawns and golf course are pristine. A spa day at Stoke Park makes for a lovely retreat. Is it really naughty that we always look forward to the spa lunch? All robed up, we love digging into the triclore salad of mozzarella, tomato and avocado, piled high with rocket and a fresh pesto dressing. The panacotta with fresh berries is really delicious and rather indulgent. The sun beams into the pool area and it’s always bright and warm. The large tropical fish tank wall between the pool and relaxation area is lovely. The full body scrub, massage and facial are our preferred treatments. The Thalago products are softly scented and therapeutic. The therapists are excellent. The snug room is exactly that- you can melt into the memory foam mattress and feel like you are floating on air and fit in a quick nap. The spa is heavenly and the grounds are stunning, and make a beautiful backdrop for a wedding. Stoke Park, Park Road, Stoke Poges, Buckinghamshire, SL2 4PG
London Eye, Waterloo, Southbank
3 December 2015
Christmas brings London to life. Having been a few years since we last went on the London Eye, we thought we would revisit it, as it is a landmark that makes up the London skyline. So although the view hasn’t changed and it’s still a gentle ride round, we recommend visiting at sunset. Take in the breathtaking views of London in a romantic evening whilst sipping champagne in the air. There is lots going on in Waterloo too with Christmas Markets and ice skating rinks being added to the usual attractions. It’s always heartwarming eating at food markets on a cold, crisp day. Southbank Market has some amazing chips cooked in duck fat with truffle mayonnaise, or pulled pork sandwich with apple sauce. Catch Slava’s Snow Show at The Royal Festival Hall if you dare.
Hummus Bros, London
1 December 2015
Looking for something slightly different to cater your next event or meeting? Have you tried Hummus Bros? “Give peas a chance” and you will look no further after you see their spread. It’s impressive, fresh and deliciously inspired by the Mediterranean. Fully loaded bowls with hummus smeared strategically on the bottom of the bowl, before being piled high with chicken, falafel, tabouleh, chilli sauce and a drizzle of lemon before being sprinkled with paprika. Served with a flatbread or carrots, this is hearty and wholesome and will leave you content and craving more. Catch them at their pop up events or one of their four London branches. Hummus Bros, Wardour Street
Imli Street, London
30 November 2015
Imli street Is nestled in a prime location in Soho, serving assortments of Indian streetfood. The decor is understated, with exposed brick and has a rather cool vibe. It has a markedly different feel to the rather formal, fine dining, Michelin starred sister restaurant, Tamarind. The tandoori platter of succulent salmon tikka, paneer, lamb chops and malai chicken is all tender, well seasoned and spicy. The mint chutney is the perfect accompaniment. The blend of buttery, creamy dal makhni with hot, light fluffy naan bread is rather delectable. The tandoori apple crumble is smokey and scrumptious. The cocktail menu was pretty impressive. It’s a great central spot for an authentic curry and we can’t wait to go back for more. Imli Street, Wardour Street, London
Slava’s Snowshow, The Royal Festival Hall, London
25 November 2015
Catch Slava’s Snowshow at The Royal Festival Hall if you dare. It’s been touring, and winning awards for over 20 years. We managed to catch it in New York’s Union Square Theatre a few years ago, and it’s distinctively memorable. Probably an experience that will never be forgotten. Sitting in the stalls we were cobwebbed in, pounced on by clowns armed with umbrellas, with strategically placed bottles of water on top. You are sure to get splashed, blasted with snow and you will leave not knowing what hit you. It’s a slightly surreal spectacle of crazed miming Russian clowns and unexpected theatrics. With bubbles and larger than life beach balls flying around ,you will either be jumping out of your seat or face being squashed. It’s quirky and unique and as long as they rummage through someone else’s bag -you will love it! Slava’s Snowshow, The Royal Festival Hall, London
Samsung Galaxy Virtual Reality Gear #10minbreak, London
25 November 2015
If your are fortunate enough to catch the pop-up Samsung #10minbreak bus by Southbank, you may find yourself mesmerised by their virtual reality demo. Hear about their new products and how NFC (near field communication) is all the rage. After years of virtual reality technology not really hitting the mark, Samsung Galaxy has revolutionised it. Simply slot your Samsung Galaxy phone in, and be marvelled by the most amazing experience ever. Mount a surf board and take a ride. Look up and it’s sunny, look down and you are riding the waves surrounded by beautiful scenery in high definition. It’s definitely the gadget to get your hands on and top of our Christmas wish list. Imagine it’s a grey, rainy day and you fancy a holiday, just pop on your virtual reality portal and you could be anywhere from the comfort of your own home. We are complete converts to virtual reality now and you will be too Samsung Galaxy VR
Shrek’s Adventure, London
22 November 2015
Shrektacular!!! DreamwWorks Shrek’s Adventures makes for an exhilarating day out in London. The new attraction is nestled in Southbank, in the shadow of the London Eye. Start with a bit of a sing song with Princess Fiona, before boarding the 4D bus experience. The interactive walk through an enchanted forest looking for Shrek is fabulously designed. Meet princesses, witches and a fortune teller with a dazzling, magical crystal ball and bump through the mirror maze. Be guided by Gingy, through the immersive experience, with delicious aromas of gingerbread. Find Shrek in the vault with rats scurrying under your seat, that will literally make your skin crawl. Your paths will cross with cheeky donkey in captivating animations with elements of trickery. For an hour you will be transported to a land Far Far Away and you will leave feeling “Shrekcellent.” Shrek Adventures , Riverside Building, County Hall, Westminster Bridge Road, London, SE17PB
Kawaii Monster Cafe, Harajuku
20 November 2015
Harajuku’s Kawaii Monster Cafe is a unique concept and all the rave, as a hotspot in Tokyo. Walk along a monster’s tongue into a multicoloured room with a huge spinning merry go round, cake. Surrounded by four funky themed zones to choose to sit in. It has a slightly crazy meets Willy Wonka hallucinatory style, with oversized magical mushrooms bursting with colour, giant lips, and hanging baby’s bottles. It’s a bit surreal, with Kawaii Monster girls strolling around the restaurant. The menu is interesting, full of unimaginable colourful spaghetti and ice creams and cakes exploding with colour. The experimental cocktails are delightful, served with test tubes to add layers of colours to your drink. Presented with multicoloured chopsticks to take away made a nice memento. The Monster Cafe is quirky, colourfully crazy, and definitely worth a visit.
Robot Restaurant, Tokyo
19 November 2015
The Robot Restaurant in Shinkjuku is an exhilarating experience. The evening starts in a cycadelic lounge sat in a golden snail with neon lights and mirrors. It’s rather bizarre but that’s all part of eras mataz, that is rather whacky and intriguing.The arena is quaint and the robots huge. Front row seats guarantee the need to sit back and duck, whilst you tuck into your bento box, to avoid losing an eye. The performers are electric and high energy and this show can only be described a bit like Lady Gaga meets Power Rangers and Kung fu panda. Dodge lasers and wave your glow sticks as you are wowed by the performance. It’s a definitely a fun way to spend an evening in Tokyo. The Robot Restaurant, Shinjuku, Tokyo
Lindt Cafe, Tokyo
17 November 2015
Tokyo’s Ginza region has some amazing places including the Lindt chocolate Cafe. The red Lindt truffle balls lure you in to this quaint cafe and we are sure glad that they did. The menu is mouthwatering. It’s a tough choice deciding between the decadent desserts. Chocolate fondants are a guilty pleasure but even more so when there is hot Lindt chocolate seeping out. The sundaes are divine, with layers of creamy chocolate ice cream with swirls of truffle and crunchy peanut brittle. Lindt Cafe, Ginza, Japan
Cafe Rambutan, Shinjuku, Japan
17 November 2015
Tokyo is full of amazing restaurants and international cuisines. One thing we noticed about some of the smaller restaurants was they offer niche Japanese food. If you want Katsu curry you will have to go to one that serves Katsu and if you want a hot bowl of Ramen there’s individual restaurants for that too. If you are not decisive it can be hard to even chose a restaurant. However most quaint restaurants will have displayed food art, depicting their menus which can be rather enticing. Shinjuku is a central hub in Tokyo, where approximately 3.5 million people pass through the station on a daily basis, with over 200 exits. So you can only imagine how overwhelming it can be to figure out where to eat with all the options. However we were looking for something a bit more swanky with a cool vibe and a fuller menu. Cafe Rambutan has a fusion Asian menu which is great. The sate infused by the lemongrass sticks was cooked to perfection. It was divine- and reminded us of our time in Bali. The Nasi goreng was well seasoned topped with crackers and egg and pickles. The restaurant was buzzing with young, hip crowds. […]
Christmas Lights, London
15 November 2015
With the countdown to Christmas beginning, the festivities are underway in London. The Christmas lights are being switched on across the city in readiness for the the festive season. Carnaby Street is always one of our favourites at Christmas. This year Carnaby Street is adorned with lovely, giant, funky, multicoloured disco balls and the side streets have oversized light bulbs. Taking a stroll towards Regent Street we were lucky to catch the switching on of the Regent Street Christmas lights. Classic FM’s, Myleene Klass and Aled Jones hosted the event, transforming Regent Street into a pedestrianized street. With several stages dotted along the stretch and giant screens there was a great vibe. Live jazz music by The Little Big Band spread Christmas cheer followed by some great classics from Elle and the Pocket Bells. Thousands of people packed into Regent Street to catch festive performances by Charlie & The Chocolate Factory, trumpeter Alison Balsom, soprano Laura Wright, and the Philharmonic Orchestra. Strictly Come Dancing’s judge, Darcy Bussel switched on the lights. The lights sponsored by Jo Malone took a ‘Timeless Elegance,” watch making theme, intricately designed by Belgium-based ACT Lighting Design. They were sophisticated with an understated elegance.
The Wedding Reception, London
14 November 2015
Interactive Theatre International present a unique, theatrical dining experience at the lovely Kingsway Hall Hotel, in the heart of London’s theatre district. The moment you walk in you are cleverly immersed, as a guest, into Kate and Will’s big day. A wedding reception neither of them wanted. It is hilariously scripted, with the cast of four actors swiftly transitioning, seamlessly into multiple roles. The nightmare pseudo-wedding is witty and far fetched, full of surprises and mishaps. Imagine an intoxicated best man running around, jumping on tables, catching bread rolls in his underwear. A bride losing her locks, getting her hair caught in her father-in-laws crotch. A strange Aunty making a toast with a glass full of Grandma’s ashes, before the family break out into a rendition of “Thriller.” It’s a light hearted, laugh out loud performance. “The Wedding Reception” makes for an entertaining evening, whilst tucking into a delicious three course meal. The fabulously fun performance will make most weddings seem rather dull. Be sure to catch this show whilst it’s touring UK & Australia. The Wedding Reception, Kingsway Hall Hotel, Covent Garden, London. *Disclaimer: Concierge Angel were complimentary guests. However, all opinions and photos belong to Concierge Angel, unless otherwise […]
Alice In Wonderland Restaurant, Ginza, Japan
8 November 2015
Imagine an evening in Alice in Wonderland’s world. Now you can in Diamond Dining’s themed restaurants across Japan. Each restaurant is unique and takes you to different parts of Alice’s dream. The restaurants are well concealed and you will only find them if you are actually looking for them. Enter Ginza’s Labyrinth, with oversized pages of Alice in Wonderland, to be welcomed in by the Mad Hatter from behind a hidden door. It’s customary to wear the bunny ears to join the Mad Hatter’s tea party. Greeted by friendly Alice waitresses you walk into a dark room adorned with playing cards and a giant tea cup. The attention to detail is ever so adorable. Presented with a three dimensional menu box with a pop up hat drinks menu is rather quirky. The drinks are illuminated with lights and the food is all intricately presented. The little bell given to ring for attention of the Alice waitress is a nice touch. Magical blue jelly poured over the food to make you shrink and Drink me Strawberry tea presented at the end to make you grow back. It’s all rather captivating and special. The food looks amazing however you don’t really go here […]
Tooti Candy Factory, Takeshita Street, Tokyo
8 November 2015
Takeshita street in Tokyo has to be one of the cutest streets in the world with stores brimming full of pink, fluffy objects.
Dominique Ansel Bakery, Tokyo
6 November 2015
Imagine the excitement when I heard Dominique Ansel had opened a bakery in Tokyo. With years of visiting the New York bakery to be deterred by the mile long queues, there was a chance I could could finally savour an infamous Cronut. Or so I thought. Cronuts are a hybrid combination of donut and croissant, and I can’t imagine anything better than that. Donut on the outside and layers of heavenly croissant on the inside. As a self confessed foodie, travelling thousands of miles across the world just on a whim of what I fancied eating is not unheard of. So when already in Tokyo popping down to Shibuya to get my hands on a Cronut was top of the agenda. Tucked away behind a Louis Vuitton store, I was surprised to stroll straight in. Not a queue in sight. The smell of sweet pastries diffused through the bakery with displays of amazing looking pastries. Walking straight up to the till I requested my Cronut. The smiling staff gestured a cross and said “Sold out.” I knew it had been too good to be true. If they are so popular why not make a few more I wondered. So I […]
Heston Blumenthal’s The Perfectionists’ Cafe
2 November 2015
It’s rather ironic you have to leave the country for the best plate of England’s signature ‘Fish & Chips’. Eating at the airport is not normally associated with amazing food, it’s usually a functional quick bite to grab on the go. Until Heston Blumenthal stepped on the scene. Heathrow’s Queen’s Terminal 2, The Perfectionists’ Cafe, is a must stop off. Forget Duty Free shopping and tantalise your tastebuds with their culinary delights. The crispy bubbly batter has just the perfect crunchy, crispness with a dash of sprinkled sea salt and an atomised infusion of vinegar vapor. I have never understood mushy peas but I was scraping the bottom of the plate for the fresh minted mush. Fabulously flavoursome they definitely are the best I have ever had and now have seen the potential for peas. Best of all they have carrot cake and the infamous nitro frozen ice creams. Fortunately service is swift so you don’t miss your flight as you get carried away. It is definitely worth getting to the airport early and even booking a flight to go anywhere just to savour the menu.
Salon Du Chocolat Chocolate Show, Olympia London
18 October 2015
A chocolate show has to be a chocolate lover’s dream come true. With chocolate literally available on tap by Venchi, it was chocolate heaven. We were spoilt for choice with artisan delights from across the globe. Paul A Young’s salted caramel brownies are all the rage. The layers of ribbons of salted caramel on a moist brownie with a marvellous hot molten chocolate middle, are pure perfection. Chocolate has come a long way, with printed artisan chocolates and chocolate sculptures. 3D chocolate printers by Choc Edge seem to be the future for chocolate creations. With Bad Brownie, Rococo Chocolate and award winning The Highland Chocolatier, we were rather spoilt for choice. And then we spotted the perfect solution, Cocoa Runners, chocolate subscription service. We couldn’t resist and are rather excited about receiving our selection of artisan chocolates in the post every month, and think this would make a great gift. With tasting corners and live theatre the Chocolate Show was cocoa filled fun. The showstopper had to be the Chocolate Fashion Show, with dresses good enough to eat.
The Hairy Pig Deli, Stockholm
16 October 2015
We stumbled across The Hairy Pig Deli, Stockholm in the rustic Old City Gamla stan. It was quirky with hog’s head and cured meats and dried spices hanging from the wooden beams. With just a handful of tables it’s rather quaint. The appetising menu of sausages and spectacular hearty, sharing boards of delicious tapas was a feast for the eyes. Salt and vinegar potatoes, garlic bread, olives, spicy chickpea and spinach, mushroom, and interestingly a moose lasagne. As a delicacy in Sweden, we took our chances with the Moose Lasagne. It tasted like a red meat and was actually quite pleasant. A Gamla Stan gem, a stone throw from the Royal Palace, that makes for a memorable feast.
Center Parcs, Woburn Forest
15 October 2015
A holiday usually consists of sun, sea, sand, and sipping mojitos by a tropical beach on the other side of the world at a five star resort. So when we booked a summer break in England, we could only cross our fingers and hope for the best. However we were pleasantly surprised by Center Parcs, Woburn Forest.
Pennyhill Park Hotel & Spa
14 October 2015
The secluded, charming five star Pennyhill Park Hotel & Spa is just so dreamy. It’s quintessentially British and a lovely wedding venue. The hotel is so pretty, covered in Autumnal leaves and the grounds are just so beautiful. The hotel is lavish yet maintains an enchanted country stately home feel. The arches and iron doors leading up to the Michael Wignall’s 2 Michelin Star, 5 AA rosette, The Latymer are our favourite. It’s quite an entrance for the fine dining restaurant. Each dish is presented as what can only be described as a piece of art. The culinary delights are complicated and delectable. A three course lunch is far from just three courses. The plates are intricately created with unrivalled attention to detail. With charcoal emulsions, celery jelly, and scattered popcorn. Each course is really unique. The service impeccable and attentive and this is ideal for a romantic celebratory lunch or dinner. The Spa is sensuous and the rose and herbal rooms are a definite favourite. With 45,000 square feet, with indoor igloos and relaxation areas and outdoor hot tubs, it makes for a relaxing day. Pennyhill Park is perfect for a romantic anniversary stay or a birthday treat. Pennyhill Park Hotel and Spa, Bagshot
Best Pizza in London -Santa Maria Pizzeria, Ealing
6 October 2015
So if we share this hidden gem- will it no longer be a hidden gem? The queues are often out of the door, so perhaps the secret is already out. With years of searching for the best pizza, we found it on our doorstep. With regular trips to Italy, often day trips, just to savour a slice who would have thought we’d be happy with a West London pizza parlour. Naples is home of the best pizzas in the world but this place comes pretty close. Santa Maria Pizzeria is as authentic as it gets in London. Wood fired pizzas from the hole in the wall restaurant are sensational. The pizza is served piping hot, with a light airy base, with a very slight crispness at the edges. They are so fresh and lovely we just can’t get enough. It comes fully loaded with buffalo mozzarella and perfectly tangy, tantalising, sweet tomato sauce and torn fresh basil. We always pick the Margherita, or the Carmela, piled high with Prosciutto ham and mushroom. The aubergine parmigiana is absolutely divine, served with a sour dough bread. Santa Maria is a no nonsense sort of place, with what feels like hearty, home cooked […]
Ended- Win 2 tickets for Immersive Theatre- The Wedding Reception
5 October 2015
This Competition is now closed- check back soon for more competitions soon. Congratulations Nickie Chapman from London on Twitter, you are our winner. We are giving away a pair of tickets FREE for Thursday 12th November 7:30 pm to the hot new West End Show “The Wedding Reception”, Covent Garden. The Wedding Reception is a show by the producers of Faulty Towers The Dining Experience. Win an evening of immersive theatre complete with three course meal and show. To enter simply share and like via our Facebook page or email info@conciergeangel.com quoting “Wedding Reception” Competition closes Monday 9th November at 9pm. Interactive Theatre International presents: THE WEDDING RECEPTION – Hot on the heels of 5* reviews at Edinburgh Fringe, this brand new immersive comedy by the producers of Faulty Towers The Dining Experience returns to Covent Garden’s Kingsway Hall Hotel. They may share the names of the world’s most famous couple, but this Will & Kate are far from royal! Their dream was for a small intimate wedding, but with everyone else planning exactly the opposite, the couple eloped. Now it’s the date of their original wedding day and they’re back for the big reception – the one that neither of […]
Rock & Rose, Richmond
27 September 2015
Rock & Rock is one of our favourite spots in West London. Glamorously decorated with lots of quirky fittings and fixtures you will find yourself falling in love with this place. It’s funky, chic décor with bold prints and textures and impressive chandeliers sets the scene for a fun night. The menu is great, the cocktails rather fabulous and the sticky toffee pudding is totally divine. The outdoor terrace is rather lovely in the Summer. An evening at Rock & Rose is sure to be a memorable one. It’s great for a romantic dinner for an anniversary celebration or even a birthday. Rock & Rose, 106 – 108 KEW ROAD, RICHMOND TW9 2PQ
Afternoon Tea at The Ritz, London
27 September 2015
The Ritz, London is one of the finest five star establishments in the world. It is renowned for being quintessentially British. With refined opulence, you are made to feel rather special at Afternoon Tea. In the heart of the bustling city, it’s pure luxury. The banquet room is grand, with beautiful music from a harpist. The afternoon tea is served with towers of cakes and sandwiches. Warm scones followed by an assortment of hot cups of tea from the Orient. The Tea menu is rather vast and the precision of timing for brewing ensures the perfect cup of tea every time. It makes for such a lovely afternoon celebration, or even a perfect gift experience. If there’s one Afternoon Tea to make time for when you are in London, it has to be The Ritz. The Ritz London 150 Piccadilly London W1J 9BR
Unexpected Destination- Kuwait
27 September 2015
We usually love planning and looking forward to holidays. But sometimes being a bit spontaneous can be fun. So when a four day public holiday was arriving, realisation suddenly struck that the weather was going to be a washout and we couldn’t come up with anything to do. After a hard day at work, the thought of spending a weekend couped up in doors was unimaginable. We desperately just wanted some sun, sea and sand. We had a bright idea, to just pack a suitcase of what we hoped to be wearing for the weekend. We threw in bikinis, swimming trunks, sunglasses, flip flops, and sun block. We decided to go to Heathrow airport, clutching our passports and cash in hand. With nothing booked we looked up at the departure boards scouring the remaining flights for the evening. Most of Europe would be cool so we were looking at the Middle East. There was a flight to Dubai in 2 hours- perfect. We could be there by the morning, soaking up the sun in a 5 star hotel. Feeling rather smug at the thought of our last minute plan coming to fruition, we went to the sales desk. We tried to […]
Spitalfields Market, London
22 September 2015
Spitalfields Market is a stones throw from Liverpool Street Station and brimming full of clothes and random assortments and some amazing food options. London has become a foodie heaven.
Cantina Laredo, Covent Garden
19 September 2015
Cantina Laredo is one of our favourite spots for the best authentic Mexican food in Central London. The service is friendly and amazing.
Warwick Castle, England
18 September 2015
Warwick Castle is beautiful and interesting. Welcomed by Morris Dancers there’s a jovial atmosphere as soon as you enter. Wander through the rose gardens, try your hand at archery or watch the birds of prey.
Tried & True, Putney
6 September 2015
Fancy an indulgent breakfast? Pulled Pork Benedict is a must have at Tried & True, Putney. Pulled pork tossed in a hickory hoisin sauce, served on a unique jalapeno, cheddar cornbread and fully loaded with poached eggs. It is a delightful breakfast treat. Tried & True, 279 Upper Richmond Road, Putney, SW15 6SP
The Grange, Tower Bridge, London
4 September 2015
Celebrating a weekend in London is fabulous, especially in the summer. We chose The Grange, Tower Bridge, as a perfect central location and a stone way from the iconic Tower Bridge. The hotel has a new, modern feel and the room was well appointed with views of the Shard and Gherkin. We were surprised with a delightfully, tangy raspberry cheese cake in our room. A perfect addition to a Anniversary weekend. The spa has lovely relaxation areas and a large pool, with steam rooms and saunas. It makes for a relaxing break in Central London.
Borough Market, London
4 September 2015
If you are a foodie in London, Borough Market has to be top of your to do list. In the shadow of the Shard, there are hundreds of food stalls, and small shops, cafes and restaurants, tucked under the arches. The assortments of food is varied and of a high quality. It’s always a challenge to decide what to have, with a temptation of aromas. We recommend eating little and often and sharing. We managed to eat our way through a lot. Starting with a succulent, melt in your mouth, flavoursome pulled pork burger from Hobbs. It’s completely overwhelming. The assortments of fruits and cheeses are tempting too. We tucked into a great, authentic tasting pad thai, sprinkled with peanuts and topped with lime and chilli. If that wasn’t enough the Rabot 1745 was irresistible. Having visited the Rabot Estate cocoa plantation in St Lucia how could we resist. With melted chocolate being churned the aroma is enticing. The creamy ice cream was sensational. Borough Market is not to be missed if in London. It has a great buzz and you will leave feeling rather satisfied. Borough Market.
Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Oxford
3 September 2015
Raymond Blanc’s Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons is a lovely manor set in 30 acres of picturesque grounds in Oxford. As you walk through the gates you feel like you have entered a secret garden. Fresh herbs and vegetables being grown amongst Japanese gardens add to the charm. The hotel and restaurant atmosphere is lovely and relaxed. The seven course lunch is rather indulgent and spanned a whole afternoon. With the finest ingredients, each dish is intricately presented, with divine flavours and attentive service. We would agree it is rather deserving of its two Michelin stars. Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Church Road, Great Milton, Oxford, OX44 7PD, UK
One of the World’s Best Restaurants – The Ledbury, Nottinghill
3 September 2015
The Ledbury has been featuring in the World’s 50 Best Restaurant for years. With 2 Michelin stars, rightly so. The British cuisine is presented artistically and the silver service impeccable. Imagine a gastronomic explosion of foams, foie gras and finesse. Exquisite fine dining, perfect for a special celebration and definitely worth booking months in advance. It’s the perfect London restaurant for a celebratory anniversary or birthday. The Ledbury, 127 Ledbury Road, Nottinghill, London, W11 2AQ
The Wharf, Bo Phut, Koh Samui
2 September 2015
Photo Blog at The Wharf, Bo Phut, Koh Samui, Thailand.
Tree Tops Sky Dining & Bar, Anantara, Lawana, Koh Samui- Thailand
24 August 2015
With great memories from our first visit, Tree Tops Sky Dining & Bar, Anantara has to be our favourite restaurant in the world.
Afternoon Tea at Radisson Blu Edwardian, Heathrow
24 August 2015
Afternoon tea is always rather indulgent and a perfect way to celebrate a special birthday. The Radisson Blu Edwardian, Heathrow, is grand with beautiful crystal chandeliers and silver décor with a lovely relaxed atmosphere. The cakes and sandwiches are deliciously delightful. Radisson Blu Edwardian, Heathrow, Bath Road, Hayes, Middlesex, UB3 5AW, England
L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon
23 August 2015
L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon is a multi award winning Michelin star restaurant in the heart of London’s theatreland. The food is created theatrically in front of you at the bar. It is great to watch the chefs at work, meticulously presenting the dishes. Each meal is magnificent and the service is rather impeccable. It’s all foams and jus as you would expect. Three courses is interspersed with intermediary courses and amuse bouche. It’s perfect for a romantic evening or a celebratory birthday or anniversary. Set over three floors you can indulge in an afternoon tea by the terrace and then go downstairs for dinner. L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon
Dishoom, Shoreditch, London
16 August 2015
Dhishoom is a charming cafe offering North Indian delights in the trendy Shoreditch. The culminations of flavours, are rich and refined. Classic Bombay style street food is cooked to perfection, exubing delightful aromas and spice. Dishoom, 7 Boundary Street, London E2 7JE
The Grill at The Dorchester, London
11 August 2015
The Dorchester, is a prestigious Park Lane establishment overlooking Hyde Park, London. The lobby is lavishly adorned with beautiful flower arrangements. At The Grill the coddled egg was indulgent, the lamb succulent, whilst the salted caramel and pistachio souffle delectable. An anniversary dinner to remember. The Dorchester Park Lane London W1K 1QA
Alice’s Adventures Underground, Waterloo
9 August 2015
Having walked through Wonderland Lates, a graffiti tunnel, we stumbled across Alice’s Adventures Underground.
Emirates Air Line, London
6 August 2015
Lovely views of Docklands from the Emirates Air Line Cable Car in London. Emirates Air Line, London
Barbican Centre, London
3 August 2015
The Barbican is one of Europe’s largest conference venues. With various rooms and event spaces with theatre style it’s the perfect venue for any large event. Barbican Centre, Silk Street, London, EC2Y 8DS
Spice Market, W Hotel, London
3 August 2015
Spice Market is located in the lovely W hotel, Leicester Square. With walls of spices the menu is a fusion of authentic south-east Asian Cuisine and is just delightful. Spice Market, 10 Wardour St., London, W1D 6QF
Paul A Young Chocolate, London
3 August 2015
As you walk in to Paul A Young, the aroma of chocolate is heavenly. No wonder the salted caramel chocolate truffles are award winning. As you bite into the dark chocolate, ribbons of silky smooth salted caramel are just divine. You will be completely spoilt for choice when you see the spread of chocolates. If you get past the chocolates you have to try the chocolate brownies with cocoa nibs and the hot chocolate is out of this world. Paul A Young Chocolate, 143 Wardour Street, Soho, London W1F 8WA
The Wolseley, London
3 August 2015
The Wolesley has a lovely, grand European Café style, in the heart of London. There are small Chinese embellishments; remnants of the former restaurant China House. The food is delightful and there is a lovely buzz. It’s always busy, no matter what time you get there. And it’s clear why. It’s in a great spot, adjacent to The Ritz and is just as fancy yet unpretencious. The European menu is just lovely for a special brunch, lunch or dinner in the heart of London. The Wolesley,160 Piccadilly, London, W1J 9EB
Al Mahara, The Burj Al Arab, Dubai
2 August 2015
The Burj Al Arab is a landmark in Dubai. As the only seven star hotel in the world, it is pretty spectacular standing proud on it’s very own man made island in Jumeirah Beach. If you were anywhere else, one might say all that glitters is not gold, but at The Burj Al Arab it is 22k gold. The dancing fountains, the giant fish tanks and gold gilded pillars are really to be marvelled over. Arrive by helicopter on the heli pad, and have a butler to serve, your every whim. The fine dining restaurant, Al Mahara is really something special. It’s just as over the top and indulgent as one might expect, with shark filled aquariums, and apple juice sprinkled with 24k gold flakes. It’s a slightly surreal experience as you almost lose all concept of reality and discover what luxury really means. It’s truly mesmerising. A dining experience really like no other, that has to be experience to be believed. It’s the restaurant you would pick to impress, for a memorable proposal, an anniversary or iconic birthday. The aquarium in the centre of the restaurant means wherever you sit you will enjoy a perfect view. The tables are well spaced […]
Magnolia Bakery, New York City
2 August 2015
Magnolia Bakery has to be our favourite cupcake shop in New York City. There are often long queues at Bleecker Steet so it was a treat to find a spot to sit down in the Upper West Side.
New York At Christmas
2 August 2015
New York is especially charming at Christmas. The magical feeling spreads with larger than life Christmas trees and wondrous displays. All over Manhattan there are amazing installations that are particularly impressive by night. From Wall Street to Radio City Hall, and the Rockefeller Centre are unbelievably huge Christmas trees. Having visited Manhattan numerous times over the years in the Summer it was our first trip in the winter. It was really cold, but fortunately there was no snow this year. Christmas is particularly wonderful in Manhattan. Everything is lit up and there’s a charm about sipping hot chocolates eating cupcakes from Magnolia’s whilst walking down 5th Avenue, in preparation for a obligatory skate in Central Park. The Rockettes Christmas Spectacular show is one not to be missed as it only comes around at Christmas. Where’s your favourite Chritsmas spot in Manhattan? Manhattan, New York City *This was an independent visit to New York
Hutong, The Shard, London
14 January 2015
On the 33rd floor of The Shard, Hutong’s Chinese cuisine is really amazing. The Shard boasts unprecedented panoramic views across the city. On a bright, sunny day the views over the River Thames are just glorious. Be sure to book well in advance as this is a popular hot spot for both tourists and Londoners. The top tip is to have an early booking, to try and guarantee a seat by the window. The décor is stylish and the service friendly and swift. The all glass building has such gorgeous light by day it really is just the nicest place to capture the city. Hutong is a superb choice for a celebration, be it a romantic dinner for Valentine’s day, a loved one’s birthday or an anniversary. The food is delightful. The dim sum menu is extensive and comes highly recommended and is our firm favourite. The Xiao long bao is so authentic and just like the speciality dim sum we savoured in China. It’s a unique dim sum to eat. If you bite into you will lose the hot broth that fills it and if you take it all in one bite you will be sure to burn your tongue. We haven’t quite figured out how to eat […]
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