cheriecity | cheriecity.co.uk

A Luxury Stay at Jesmond Dene House

January 21, 2016 by cheriecity

Growing up in Newcastle, one of my favourite places to get out in the fresh air was leafy, wild Jesmond Dene. It’s an incredibly beautiful wooded valley where you can walk alongside the river Ouseburn with stunning waterfalls and spot exotic trees and wildlife including red squirrels and kingfishers.

I have happy memories of going to see the peacocks and goats at Pets Corner and rollerblading down the bank to the local artist market on the bridge every Sunday. So you can imagine how excited I was to visit Jesmond Dene House for a rare luxury staycation in my home city.

The House

Jesmond Dene House opened as Newcastle’s first independently owned boutique hotel in 2005 and the building itself has quite a history. The original Georgian house was bought in 1871 by Captain Andrew Noble (business partner of Lord Armstrong), who moved in high society and hosted luminaries such as Rudyard Kipling, Arthur Conan Doyle and royalty from the Far East.

Today, Jesmond Dene House enhances its historic features with contemporary design and a striking art collection. I adored the charming little dogs made from twisted wire dotted around the hallway and sitting next to the fire in the lounge. It’s also a real foodie destination with many locals visiting the restaurant for its popular afternoon, Sunday roast and innovative tasting menus at dinner.

The Room

We received a warm welcome at check-in and were shown to our Deluxe Room on the second floor. It was lovely and cosy with high ceilings and a partial view of Jesmond Dene. The room was designed in a classic-contemporary style and soft neutral shades and featured a comfy seating area, writing desk, flat-screen HD TV, an iPod docking radio and free wifi.

The hotel knows how much Northerners need a good cuppa and they’ve really put some thought into the tea and coffee making facilities. I was impressed with the plentiful selection of JING teas, freshly-ground coffee produced by Ringtons for Jesmond Dene House, mini bottle of fresh milk and ginger cookies. A china tea pot and cafetiere completed the very civilised tea experience and we were also provided complimentary bottles of mineral water and fresh fruit.

The bed was very comfortable with high quality linen and the room was so quiet that we had an excellent night’s sleep.

The Bathroom

The bright, modern tiled bathroom was pristine and featured a wide soaking tub, high quality towels and face cloths, plush bathrobe and slippers and a full set of uplifting Arran Aromatics bathroom products.

The Restaurant

That evening, my mum and I dined at The Restaurant with a modern British menu by Head Chef Michael Penaluna. The restaurant is stylish and colourful with intriguing artwork and pleasantly dimmed lighting and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. However, fine dining touches are in place, as we were offered a selection of freshly-baked breads with a choice or salted, unsalted or seaweed butter and presented a yummy amuse-bouche before our starters and desserts.

My mum and I both started with Celeriac soup with roasted chestnuts, apple and Stilton tortellini. The velvety, creamy soup was simply lovely and the single tortellini filled with potent Stilton packed a real punch – only one piece was required to make an impact.

I followed with Roast chicken with fondant potato, wild leeks and baby carrots. The chicken breast was succulent and juicy with a well-seasoned crispy skin and the delicate roasted vegetables and rich, meaty jus were the perfect accompaniment.

My mum also enjoyed her Flat iron steak with fat cut chips, watercress and Bearnaise sauce. The lean, tender steak had a deep, mature flavour, the chips were crisp and moreish and the Bearnaise was silky and tangy with plenty of fresh tarragon.

Since my mum is a rhubarb fan, it was only right that she should order the Vanilla and rhubarb gateaux with rhubarb sorbet. Not only did it look ever so pretty, but it was delicious with a thick layer of rhubarb jelly, springy golden sponge and vanilla cream that was light as air.

My Chocolate and salted caramel tart with vanilla ice cream didn’t disappoint either. The dark chocolate ganache was full of flavour and went perfectly with the indulgent, sticky salted caramel, buttery pastry and home-made ice cream.

The Bar

The staff were so welcoming and friendly and we liked that seasonal ingredients are locally sourced from Northumberland and the North Sea coast. If you fancy a nightcap, there’s a relaxing wood-panelled bar next door or a cosy place next to the open fire in the lounge.

Breakfast

Breakfast in the Garden Room is quite an event at Jesmond Dene House, with everything you could possibly want to start the day. We enjoyed the Continental Breakfast spread, which included Neil Robson’s smoked salmon, home-cured gravlax, cured meats, Continental cheeses, delicious pastries, banana bread, French set yoghurts, Bircher muesli, cereals, fruit compote and poached pears.

You can also order hot dishes such as Haggis and duck egg with salsa verde, Grilled Craster kipper, Eggs Benedict or French toast with the Continental breakfast included in the price. Be sure to leave plenty of time for a long, leisurely breakfast – it’s worth it!

Jesmond Dene House feels like a secret hideaway retreat surrounded by lush greenery, but it’s also close to Jesmond’s lively Osborne Road and Newcastle city centre for shopping and dining. We loved our relaxing staycation and will no doubt be back at Jesmond Dene House soon – a decadent afternoon tea on the terrace among the palm trees is high on my ‘to do list’.

For more information and booking, visit: www.jesmonddenehouse.co.uk

Chérie City was a guest of Jesmond Dene House

Photos by Chérie City and Jesmond Dene House

Cafes, London

January Detox at maple&FITZ London

January 19, 2016 by cheriecity

January is the month when we tend to think about detoxing and ‘eating clean’ that little bit more seriously, but I can see my love affair with maple&FITZ lasting all year-round. If like me you’re always on the hunt for quick and healthy meals that are wholesome, filling and super-tasty, this little Fitzrovia cafe and counter should be top of your list.

Canadian Cordon Bleu-trained chef Adria Wu opened healthy eatery maple&FITZ just last year and already it’s become a hotspot for health-conscious Londoners. Her philosophy is all about happiness, balance and nourishment, whether it’s refueling the body with a cleansing cold-pressed juice or indulging in a guilt-free treat.

Walking into maple&FITZ, my eyes lit up when I saw the counter laden with colourful, tempting dishes. Everything is made fresh from the kitchen throughout the day using high quality seasonal ingredients, so you know it’s only full of good stuff.

Noticing that I was struggling to choose just one salad, the lovely staff suggested a large box with room for a few different tastes. I enjoyed a rainbow of three salads – Julius Caesar, Sweet Caroline and Blackjack, topped with a few slices of grilled halloumi for good measure.

My favourite salad was Sweet Caroline – a crisp kale base, studded with vibrant shredded beets, juicy roasted sweet potato, celeriac and toasted pecans, finished with a tangy, sweet maple balsamic dressing. This went exceptionally well with Blackjack – a warm, comforting salad of hearty black rice and roasted squash with winter sea salt, baby spinach and cinnamon, garlic and lemon dressing.

For something really light and zingy, try Julius Caesar – shredded kale, romaine, mangetout, toasted buckwheat, cabbage, toasted pumpkin and sunflowers seeds, Pecorino and Dijon-lemon tahini dressing. It really complimented the other two salads, but if you’re going for a smaller pot, it’s worth choosing a salad with those glorious pieces of roasted sweet potato or butternut squash – they’re just so good!

I also recommend adding a protein for that extra bit of indulgence. Grilled halloumi with sage was an absolute winner, but you can also add grilled chicken, turkey meatballs, grilled salmon, tofu or a poached egg.

I accompanied my salad box with one of two delicious soups – Take My Broth Away. This light vegetable miso broth was subtle and not at all salty, filled with plenty of silky gluten-free buckwheat noodles, baby spinach, mushrooms and small pieces of smoky tofu. If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, there’s the Love Root soup with carrot, sweet potato, toasted spices, green apple, onion and garlic.

To finish, I couldn’t resist a highly-recommended Gluten-free brownie with dark chocolate and salted caramel swirl. It was absolutely divine – rich and sticky with a pleasant texture and an intense chocolate flavour. It was the perfect match for my gorgeous Choco Dream raw cold-pressed drink made with almond milk, raw cacao, honey and sea salt – so decadent yet nourishing.

maple&FITZ is one of my favourite new discoveries and I was amazed at how much it energised my body and lifted my spirits. I know I’ll be back soon to work my way through the salads and try the matcha energy balls and banana loaf. Breakfast also sounds yummy with sunny dishes such as Maple porridge, Salted date caramel toast and Avocado chili toast.

To help you keep those New Year’s resolutions, maple& FITZ is offering a January Resetting Package including a choice of soup, salad and cold-pressed juice for £10. For more information, visit: www.mapleandfitz.com

Chérie City was a guest of maple&FITZ

Photos by Chérie City (interior by maple&FITZ)

Berlin, Hotels

A Luxury Stay at Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin

January 4, 2016 by cheriecity

Hotel Adlon Kempinski is the grande dame of Berlin hotels, standing majestically on the corner of Pariser Platz overlooking the Brandenburg Gate.

It’s a legendary hotel with quite a history and a stellar list of iconic past guests including Charlie Chaplin, Marlene Dietrich and Josephine Baker during Berlin’s Golden Twenties. Greto Garbo delivered her famous line, ‘I vant to be alone’ in one of its rooms while filming Grand Hotel and the hotel also gets a name-check by Liza Minnelli’s Sally Bowles in Cabaret. As a fan of historic hotels with character, that alone was enough to get me through the golden revolving door.

While the Adlon is steeped in history, in fact the building was destroyed in a fire in 1945, leaving ruins in its place for decades before it was entirely rebuilt and restored in the style of the original hotel in 1997. So accomplished was the regeneration, with its French-style balconies and verdigris roof, that it’s easy to believe the hotel had never went away.

Arriving at Hotel Adlon Kempinski, to a red carpet and a flurry of traditionally-dressed luggage porters, you know you’re somewhere very special. The bright, flower-filled Lobby Lounge and Bar offers plenty of old world glamour and a sense of calm, with a pianist playing jazz classics while guests enjoy afternoon tea, or a signature Adlon-Currywurst.

The Suite

We were warmly welcomed by the front desk staff and were shown to our Junior Suite with a spectacular view of the Brandenburg Gate. The circular entrance hall soon became my walk-in dressing room, as it was handily lined with fitted wardrobes and had a centre table and an additional door to the bathroom – excellent hotel room design, no?

Sliding doors led on to the large open-plan suite, designed in a colour palette of cream and ochre with highlights of mahogany and cherry wood. It felt stately yet cosy with a plush suede sofa in the living area and a very comfortable king-size bed. On the executive writing desk was an iPad for use during our stay and thankfully free wifi (it’s hard to believe but some high end hotel groups still charge for this).

A Welcome Treat

We were kindly welcomed with Moët & Chandon Champagne chilled on ice, copious fresh fruits and the most exquisite hand-made chocolates on a bed of mini chocolate chips (most likely for decoration but I couldn’t resist grazing on them later). There was also complimentary bottled mineral water by our beside and our room was thoughtfully turned down for our late-afternoon arrival.

Another lovely touch was the wake-up call complete with complimentary tea and mini pastries delivered to our room. Be sure to request a wake-up call the night before, so you can start the day in the sweetest way possible.

The Bathroom

The sleek mahogany wood and black granite bathroom was a real highlight, with a deep soaking tub in the centre of the room, a powerful walk-in shower, double sinks, plush bathrobes and slippers, a full set of Elemental Herbology bathroom products and Blaise Mautin bath salts.

Swimming Pool and Spa

After settling in to our suite, we hit the pool and sauna to unwind after a day of travelling. I was thrilled to find an opulent, Italian garden-inspired oasis with a tranquil, perfectly heated pool and a blissful whirlpool. The separate and mixed sauna and steam room were some of the hottest, most effective that I’ve encountered and there are plenty of mini Evian bottles and iced teas to keep you cool and hydrated.

The three-level Adlon Spa by Resense is quite spectacular, with beautiful Asian-style interiors by Anne Maria Jagfeld, stylish treatment rooms and a yoga studio. I highly recommend treating yourself to a spa treatment there if you have time for some serious pampering, as the spa is really something to see.

Dining at Adlon Kempinski

Dining is a big event at Hotel Adlon Kempinski with no less than four restaurants. The crown jewel of the hotel is the two Michelin star Lorenz Adlon Esszimmer with innovative fine dining by Chef de Cuisine Hendrick Otto and the hip, seductive pan-Asian Sra Bua by Berlin’s renowned chef Tim Raue. Le Petit Felix serves sunny Mediterranean dishes with a focus on the south of France while Quarré Restaurant is a classic brasserie where breakfast is served.

Breakfast

The bountiful breakfast buffet with live cooking stations is widely known as the most luxurious in Berlin – where else is Champagne and a selection of caviar included? You’ll want to schedule at least an hour to navigate the offering and indulge in pancakes, pastries, cured meats and smoked salmon before ordering some tasty Eggs Benedict (also included) to really ensure you’re set up for the day.

As if the breakfast buffet of dreams wasn’t enough already, our charming waiter presented us with a paper bag of Berliner doughnuts to munch on later – such a fun, thoughtful touch. We left feeling comfortably full and ready to explore the city.

While this prestigious part of Mitte isn’t the most lively at night, I thoroughly recommend staying at Hotel Adlon Kempinski if you’re planning to see sights such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, the Holocaust Memorial, Potsdamer Platz and the leafy Tiergarten.

Our stay at Hotel Adlon Kempinski was so memorable, luxurious and incredibly relaxing. The friendly, enthusiastic staff really enhance the charm of the hotel and we always felt welcome and well looked after – everything that you could possibly desire from a five star Berlin hotel.

For more information and booking, visit: www.kempinski.com

Chérie City was a guest of Hotel Adlon Kempinski

Photos by Chérie City and Hotel Adlon Kempinski

Hotels

Looking Ahead to 2016 Travels

December 31, 2015 by cheriecity

While some years can feel like months of simple coasting, 2015 was a significant year for me, with some blissful highs and a few lows that are now resolved. I don’t always like to categorise and evaluate my life by years, but it is worth stopping to reflect on everything we have to be thankful as a new beginning is on the horizon.

But let’s get the drama out of the way first, because if you’ve had any recent dealings with the ridiculousness that is the London rental market, you will surely share our frustrations. For half of 2015, there was a constant dark cloud hovering over us, with the threat of having to leave our first home together (where we’ve lived since 2008), as our landlord was selling up. Cue months of living on edge and in limbo, but finally, a new buy-to-let landlord meant we were able to stay in our little Hackney nest and now travel plans can resume, knowing that all is well at home.

Positive moments in 2015 were work successes for both of us, seeing old friends and making new ones, and getting engaged in our spiritual home of Paris. So, looking back on the year, here are a few of my favourite travel moments of 2015 and a peek at the exciting things that 2016 has in store…

Costa Navarino

My first trip to Greece was an epic one, staying at the beautiful south-west Peloponnese eco resort, Costa Navarino. It was one of my favourite press trips, with the best possible travel companions, fantastic dining, breathtaking scenery and magical sunsets. If you’re already looking ahead to a summer break, Costa Navarino should be at the top of your list.

Berlin

It had been a while since I visited Berlin, so I was excited to head back and see how much it had changed over the years. I loved exploring the hip neighbourhood of Mitte and strolling around the leafy Tiergarten. Highlights were staying at the majestic Hotel Adlon Kempinski and discovering foodie delights at NENI, Yumcha Heroes and Princess Cheesecake.

Aix-en-Provence and Marseille

In the summer, I took a trip on the Eurostar to the south of France to explore beautiful Aix-en-Provence and the neighbouring port city of Marseille. Aix is a really magical place and I loved strolling around the markets and visiting Cezanne’s studio, the Hotel Caumount art centre, the American Icons exhibition at the Granet Museum and taking a trip into the countryside to the must-see Chateau La Coste.

I was also pleased to revisit Marseille and really explore the historic Panier and hip Cours Julien districts, enjoy the evening charm of the Old Port and spot some of France’s best street art.

The Cotswolds

This year, I managed to visit the Cotswolds for the first time – twice in the space of a few months, in fact. My first jaunt was to the ila spa barn to experience the new Gold Cellular Age-Restore collection at the source. It was a very special afternoon, as I spent some one-on-one time with its inspirational founder Denise Leicester and get a rare glimpse of the ila world.

My second Cotswolds jaunt was for a festive shopping break, staying at the gorgeous Kings Head Cirencester. It was the perfect start to the festive season, with a heavenly Lubatti treatment in the hotel’s spa, traditional turkey roast, lashings of Michael Bublé (sadly not in person) and a magical illuminated trail through the Westonbirt Arboretum.

2016 and beyond

In February, I’ll be reunited with the Celebrity Cruises Destination Bloggers as we all take on an Ultimate Caribbean Cruise in two parts. I’ll be exploring the Caribbean with Suzanne and Elle, starting with Cartagena and then on to George Town, Grand Cayman, finishing in Fort Lauderdale. My first trip to the Caribbean with Celebrity Cruises was so memorable, so I can’t wait to catch some much-needed winter sun and see as much as I can of these dream destinations.

In the tradition of saving the best ’til last, 20th May 2016 will be the day I get married. Since Steven and I are both passionate about travel, we’ve decided to get hitched in one of our favourite places in the world…Central Park, New York! It will be an intimate ceremony with just close family and any friends who are available for a spring jaunt to New York. I’m sure there will be a few stresses to come, but so far I’ve really enjoyed planning a special trip that all of us will love and making the travel arrangements.

We will be spending two weeks in the US and will be flying with Virgin Atlantic and staying for four nights at five star Midtown hotel, The Westhouse. I chose this forward-thinking hotel (the sister of The Quin and The Refinery) for its beautiful design, great location just a few blocks from the west side of Central Park and also its innovative amenity programme.

I’m not usually a fan of resident’s fees when hotels charge for amenities that should be included, but this one offers good value with daily breakfast, afternoon tea, evening wine and canapes and a range of drinks throughout the day, as well as the usual free wifi etc. This clubhouse atmosphere at The Westhouse seems ideal for a breezy, luxurious stay in New York and I’m looking forward to relaxing on the terrace or in the den with our family over a glass of Champagne at the end of a busy day.

The next steps are writing vows with our wedding officiant Sarah, deciding on a restaurant for a low-key reception (any suggestions welcome) and planning those details such as a good photographer, hair and nail appointments, flowers and a fabulous cake. We also have an extra week after the wedding to explore the East Coast and have a few ideas of how we’d like to spend it.

Here’s to a successful and inspiring 2016. What does the new year bring for you? Where will your next travel adventures take you to?

Photos by Chérie City (hotel images by The Westhouse)

London, Restaurants

Authentic Ramen at Kanada-Ya in Haymarket

December 30, 2015 by cheriecity

Kanada-Ya made a big impact when it launched on St Giles High Street last year and it has remained my preferred London ramen bar since. It hasn’t always been easy to grab a walk-in seat due to its popularity and petite size, but thankfully, Kanada-Ya has met demand and earlier this month opened a second ramen bar on Panton Street, just off Haymarket.

Kanada Kazuhiro’s new ramen bar is thankfully larger and set across two floors, with two bookable tables for groups of 5-7 as well as the usual walk-in tables and counter. Designed by Spaced Out Ltd, Kanada-Ya Haymarket has a casual, minimal feel with simple light wood furniture and red accents. It’s comfortable enough, but is definitely the kind of place for a quick and tasty refuel, rather than lounging over drinks.

The menu has also been modestly expanded to include two more side dishes and Japanese ice cream for dessert. The focus remains on the ramen, which is quickly served up piping hot in large bowls with a number of extras, so you can customise it to your own taste.

We visited on Monday evening just before Christmas and arrived to find an orderly queue forming outside. It didn’t take long to be seated and we started by ordering iced Oolong tea – a lovely, refreshing drink in a can without any added sugar. For something stronger, Kanada-Ya serves a good range of bottled cocktails, Japanese craft beer, rare Japanese whiskies and wine selection.

I was excited to try Kanada-Ya’s spin on one of my favourite Japanese bites – Chicken Kara-age. The tender chicken thigh was well-marinated in ginger, garlic and soy and fried with a little more batter than I’m used to, but still delicious and satisfying. It was not at all greasy nor in any way spicy but the seasoning certainly packed a punch. There’s also a side of Paolo’s Spicy Kale to choose from, if you’re after something healthier.

To follow, Steven went for the Original Ramen, which made such an impression on us the first time we visited Kanada-Ya St. Giles. It was exactly how we remembered, with a rich, creamy 18-hour pork bone broth, plenty of springy, hand-pulled noodles, earthy wood ear fungus, finely-sliced spring onion and a large sheet of flavoursome nori.

Of course, the star of the show was the chashu pork belly with a deep honey barbecue flavour and a silky, melt-in-the-mouth texture. This house-marinated pork really is rather special and sets Kanada-Ya apart from other from rest.

I wanted to try something new and happily, the Chashu-Men was just as tasty and comforting as I’d hoped. The ramen base was exactly the same as the original, but the bowl was lined with generous slices of succulent chashu pork collar. The slices of pork were larger and leaner, with hardly any fat at all, and the portion size was almost double. The pork collar still had that sweet chashu flavour, but it was much more subtle than the intense pork belly in the Original Ramen. Both types of pork are absolutely delicious, it just depends on your mood and hunger levels.

It’s essential that you save some room for the dreamy Matcha Soft Serve. The smooth, not overly sweet whipped ice cream was packed full of matcha green tea, giving it a bold flavour without any bitterness. It’s the perfect light dessert to cool down after a bowl of hot ramen and leave you with a bit of a matcha high.

There are still so many ramen bars to work my way through in London and beyond, but Kanada-Ya has set a standard that will be hard to beat (although I’m up for the challenge). If you’re in the mood for a ramen fix, or want to see what all the fuss is about, Kanada-Ya is where you need to be.

For more information, visit: www.kanada-ya.com

Chérie City was a guest of Kanada-Ya Haymarket

Photos by Chérie City and Kanada-Ya Haymarket

Christmas

Christmas Gift Guide: For Her

December 19, 2015 by cheriecity

It may be less than a week until Christmas Day, but there’s still time to hunt down the perfect gift. Wish on a shooting star with Zoe & Morgan, pucker up with Yves Saint Laurent or add some adorable arm candy with Longchamp.

Here are some gift ideas for her…

Yves Saint Laurent Kiss & Love Collection Palette, £59, Harvey Nichols
Shooting Star Necklace, £290, Zoe & Morgan
Acqua di Parma Iris Nobile Sublime eau de parfum, £86, Space.N.K
Le Pliage Miaou, £83, Longchamp
Volcano multi-coloured reactive ceramic vase, £30, Habitat
Le Specs tortoiseshell luxe sunglasses, £55, Atterley
ghd Platinum styling gift set, £165, Harvey Nichols
Fresh Rose Face Mask, £46, Fresh
Nail lacquer Come to Bed Red, £12, butter LONDON
Rifle Paper Co Garance Dore social stationery set, £18.50, Tea and Kate

Hotels

A Stay at The Kings Head in The Cotswolds

December 16, 2015 by cheriecity

Last week, I took a relaxing jaunt to the Cotswolds for a girls trip filled with Christmas shopping, spa treatments and plenty of indulgence. The Kings Head, in the Roman town of Cirencester, was our homely abode for two nights and to call it a high end pub hotel would be an understatement.

Opened in October last year, the Kings Head is a country-chic bolthole right in the centre of historic Cirencester. It was once an ancient coach inn and more recently a tired old boozer, but now the hotel is a hot spot for well-heeled couples weekending in the Cotswold from London and afar. It even won the Smith Hotel Award for Best Newcomer 2015, so you know it’s going to be special.

The Kings Head features an impressive 45 individually-designed rooms and boasts a fantastic restaurant, spa with treatments by Lubatti and a warren of stunning meeting and event spaces.

The Suite

My Feature Suite on the second floor was an absolute dream and I immediately felt at home there. A few stairs lead up to the most enormous room with a king-size bed, comfortable seating area, an executive desk, Samsung flat-screen TV and double wardrobe. There’s even an outdoor terrace with decking and a bench, where you can enjoy breakfast al fresco in the warmer months.

I adored the rustic, natural colour palette of olive green and slate grey luxurious tweed and wool furnishings. Best of all was the plush bed covered in sumptuous linen and the thoughtful welcome gift of everything you need to make a cracking G&T – Sibling Triple Distilled Gin, Fever-Tree Tonic Water, little pots of green olives and pink grapefruit, plus a full bucket of ice.

Other generous features include a Nespresso machine with plenty of capsules, a kettle with a selection of Twinings teas, a minibar filled with fresh milk and complimentary mini bottles of San Pellegrino sparkling and still water and of course, free wifi.

The Bathroom

The large bathroom is designed in the minimal, monochrome style you’d expect to find in a Lower East Side NYC hotel rather than the Cotswolds. All of the facilities feel brand new and well-appointed – there’s a deep soaking tub, walk-in shower, double sink, cosy bathrobes, extra-wide towels and two full sets of Lubatti bathroom products. What more could you want for a relaxing, luxury stay?

A Cotswolds Afternoon Tea

Dining at the Kings Head is a real delight for foodies. On arrival, we enjoyed a Cotswolds Afternoon Tea around the fireplace in the elegant lounge. We grazed on tasty sandwiches, warm scones with jam and clotted cream, followed by mini mince pies, spiced ginger cake and lemon posset verrines.

Dinner in The Restaurant

Dinner in The Restaurant was also memorable, with top notch food and a warm atmosphere. The menu is a mix of comforting pub classics, innovative dishes and locally-sourced meats cooked on the robata grill.

On the first night, I enjoyed a juicy, smoky Cider and mustard pork chop, confit plum tomato, flat mushroom, focaccia and thyme crumb, chips and spiced apple chutney. I followed with the most incredible dessert that must not be missed – Croissant and dark chocolate pudding, kumquat marmalade and Greek yoghurt ice cream.

On the second night, our group was the first to try the new Christmas menu and almost all of us plumped for the Roasted Norfolk Bronze turkey with chestnut stuffing and braised leg with all of the trimmings. It was the perfect start to the festive season, with Michael Bublé’s Christmas album on repeat, pretty Christmas trees and a full belly from the indulgent Sticky toffee pudding.

Breakfast

Breakfast is also a real treat, with a number of tempting dishes such as French toast, Eggs Benedict and double cream porridge on the menu. The self-serve Continental breakfast is high quality and plentiful with croissants, cereal, yoghurt with granola, charcuterie and cheese, but it could be expanded to include some waffles, crepes, pancakes or a wider range of pastries. I went light and healthy on the first morning, but indulged in a scrumptious Bacon sandwich.

A Lubatti Body Treatment in The Vaulted Cellar Spa

Spending a few hours unwinding in the subterranean Vaulted Cellar Spa with its steam room and whirlpool is an absolute must.

A highlight of my stay was the glorious Lubatti Pure Luxury Indulgence body treatment (80 mins/£90). It was a calming, holistic treatment, beginning with an effective back massage, followed by a facial cleanse, tone and massage, nourishing eye and lip treatment and hand and foot exfoliation using Lubatti caramel body polish, ending with a light body lotion. I felt like I was floating on air and drifted off more than a few times.

Happily, we had an afternoon of free time, so I lounged in the Relaxation Room and rolled upstairs for a quick nap – pure bliss!

Westonbirt Arboretum

So, apart from eating and relaxing, what is there to do on a festive break in the Cotswolds? Take a 30-minute journey out of town to see the Enchanted Christmas at Westonbirt Arboretum. Follow the trail through the arboretum to see the majestic trees illuminated in colourful lights, with disco balls, lights shows, installations and plenty of surprises. It’s great for walking off that indulgent Cotswolds Afternoon Tea.

Exploring Cirencester

Cirencester is a treasure trove for finding unique Christmas gifts. Next door to The Kings Head is the Corn Hall – a modern shopping arcade filled with designer shops including Sue Parkinson that stocks a well-edited selection of brands such as Mulberry, Anya Hindmarch and Neom.

It’s also home to the wonderful restaurant and deli, Made by Bob – a popular and cosmopolitan spot for a tasty lunch. After exploring Cirencester, we visited for a quick refuel before our spa treatments. I warmed up with the Sweet potato soup with harissa crème fraîche while the rest of the table went for the Heirloom tomato salad with burrata, rocket, pesto and grilled focaccia – so yummy!

Some of our favourite boutiques in Cirencester were m.a.d.e for hand-crafted lifestyle products by UK designers and Parlane for stylish homewares. Also look out for Octavia Bookshop, Lola, Keith’s Coffee Shop and French Grey Interiors.

The Corinium Museum

If you still have time after shopping, discover the history of Cirencester at the Corinium Museum with relics including mosaic floors, jewellery and ancient weapons, as well as some rather life-like models and interactive learning games.

My first visit to Cirencester at Christmas time was everything I could have hoped for and I highly recommend the Kings Head for a stylish weekend break.

Rooms at the Kings Head Cirencester start from £120 per room per night on a bed and breakfast basis. For more information and booking, visit: www.kingshead-hotel.co.uk

Chérie City was a guest of Kings Head Cirencester

Photos by Chérie City and Kings Head Cirencester

London, Restaurants

A Great Dinner at Hawksmoor Knightsbridge

December 14, 2015 by cheriecity

With so many renowned London institutions to strike off the list, it’s likely that a few will slip through the net. After visiting this weekend, I’m now kicking myself that I didn’t experience the beauty that is Hawksmoor much earlier!

When I first started blogging in 2009, Will Beckett and Huw Gott’s British steakhouse Hawksmoor was on the lips (and keyboards) of London foodies, who raved about its superior steaks and burgers punctuated with small nuggets of bone marrow. It’s fair to say that this grassroots acclaim has paved the way for Hawksmoor to expand to six locations across London and one in Manchester. The original restaurant is based in Spitalfields, appropriately named after Nicholas Hawksmoor, the architect of nearby Christ Church.

After a leisurely afternoon of Christmas shopping, we arrived at Hawksmoor Knightsbridge for an early dinner. The subterranean restaurant is discreetly tucked away on Yeoman’s Row, just a short walk from Harrods, V&A and Hyde Park. Designed by Macaulay Sinclair, it has a retro clubhouse feel with reclaimed walnut panelling, brass lamps, touches of grey marble and stunning amber-hued Art Deco windows.

It’s a slick, polished operation yet the ambiance cultivated is unpretentious with a cool indie soundtrack and friendly staff mostly dressed in plaid shirts and glasses. There’s also an intimate cocktail bar away from the main dining room where you can graze on burgers, steak sandwiches and lobster rolls.

Dining at the pre-theatre time of 5pm may seem early, but since Hawksmoor Knightsbridge is a popular restaurant, it was already buzzing and filled up quickly. The set lunch or dinner is an excellent way to get a taste of Hawksmoor’s signature dishes at a very reasonable price – two course for £24 or three courses for £27.

I started with a very generous portion of Tamworth belly ribs with vinegar slaw. The pork was so tender and flaky, with lean meat packed between layers of melt-in-the-mouth fat. They were nicely charred on the outside and coated in a punchy dry rub with aromatic flavors of cumin, star anise and chipotle chilli.

The paper-thin ribbons of red cabbage doused in a tangy vinegar added freshness and helped offset the unexpected spiciness – my mouth was left tingling after I finished.

Steven tried the Potted smoked mackerel, which was a simple classic done well. The mackerel had a bold, clean flavour with a layer of clarified butter on top and served with dill cucumbers and crispy toasts. The other dish on the set menu was Roast beetroot salad with goat’s cheese, which looked colourful, fresh and inviting.

For the main course, I was happy to find two steak options, avoiding any potential squabbles over who would order the meat. For a £5 supplement I enjoyed the most heavenly, medium-cooked Fillet tail (200g). The presentation was minimal without any leaves, herbs or garnish in sight, but that didn’t really matter, as the steak certainly impressed.

Fillet is my favourite cut of steak and this one was excellent with a pink, succulent centre graduating to smoky, chargrilled edges and with a pure, natural flavour. I always ask for my steak medium, but with this thick cut, you could easy go down to medium-rare for a little more juiciness.

The set dinner also includes one side and I highly recommend the Baked sweet potato. The potato flesh is so soft and tender, it simply falls off the buttery skin and is the perfect accompaniment for the steak. The only thing missing is a choice of sauce, but you can order a side of Béarnaise, peppercorn or Stilton Hollandaise for an additional £3.

Steven’s Rib-eye (250g) was just as tasty and beautifully-cooked with a mature, aged flavour. The layer of fat and softness of the meat gave it richness – well-suited to those who prefer a more complex taste. The thick-cut Triple cooked chips were golden, hot and crispy and served with a delicious home-made tomato ketchup that had a sweet hint of cinnamon. Other options are Hake or Ricotta dumplings with autumn vegetables, but really, it’s all about the meat.

We found the steaks to be just the right size for a filling, satisfying meal, however the steaks on the main menu go up to a whopping 500g! You’ll need to loosen your purse strings a little more, but then again the quality is undisputed, with steaks from ethically-reared traditional British breeds.

For dessert, I went all out with the indulgent Peanut butter shortbread, which was even better than I expected. A freshly-baked pastry star was filled with molten dark chocolate sauce and velvety peanut butter, finished with salted caramel ice cream and crushed peanuts. It was simply heaven on a plate, ending my meal on the sweetest note.

Steven’s Lemon and yoghurt cheesecake was zingy and refreshing, but I found it too creamy. The whipped cheesecake filling was a bit overwhelming and lacked the tartness that a cheesecake should have, plus the biscuit base was mixed in so there was no crunch. Go for the Peanut butter shortbread (or perhaps the other option of Passionfruit pavlova) instead.

I can safely say I’ve been initiated into the cult of Hawksmoor and am already planning our next steak jaunt, perhaps to the Spitalfields restaurant closer to home. The set dinner is excellent value with a great selection of winning dishes and you’re sure to leave feeling happy and well-fed.

For more information and booking, visit: www.thehawksmoor.com

Chérie City was a guest of Bookatable

Photos by Chérie City and Hawksmoor Knightsbridge

Christmas

Christmas Gift Guide: For Foodies

December 13, 2015 by cheriecity

What to buy the foodie in your life for Christmas? Just look out for something decadent and delicious and you’ll be on the right track. Give them all of the tools to make kickass ramen, washed down with New Zealand’s finest bubbles and finished with bites of gourmet chocolate-covered honeycomb.

Here are some mouth-watering ideas for your favourite bon viveur…

Panettone au Chocolat, €27, Pierre Hermé
The Doughnut Destroyer Plate by James Ward, £25, m.a.d.e
Ivan Ramen – Ramen Making Kit, £39.50, Sous Chef
The Complete 2016 Collection, £75, Mast Brothers
Risotto Tin, £21.95, Carluccio’s
2011 Kalex Pinot Noir Rose Brut Otago, £26.50, The New Zealand Cellar
Peanut Butter Honeycomb Dips, £3.50, Mighty Fine Honeycomb
Arabica Levantine Larder Essentials, £65, Arabica
French Earl Grey Cotton Teabag, £12, T2
Brew Coffee Scoop by Tom Dixon, £35, Heal’s
San Pietro Black Truffle Extra Virgin Olive Oil, £10.99, Selfridges

London, Restaurants

Weekend Lunch at The Richmond, Hackney

December 11, 2015 by cheriecity

A truly memorable pub lunch isn’t always easy to find, but Hackney is hiding a little gem that you need to know about. Opened just this year, The Richmond is nestled between Dalston, Haggerston and London Fields – slightly off the beaten path, making it a bit of an insider’s address.

Its previous incarnation was an eccentric Egyptian-themed restaurant, but now co-owners, Australian chef and restaurateur Brett Redman and stylist and fashion consultant Margaret Crow, have turned it into a stylish, cosy hotspot.

Not only is The Richmond a welcoming bar and restaurant with an exciting menu, but it’s also east London’s first raw bar. It offers fresh, light seafood dishes such as tuna tartare, scallop carpaccio and Portuguese prawns, but its speciality is oysters sourced from across the UK. There’s even a £1 oyster happy hour from Monday to Saturday, so you can easily sample them all.

Far from a typical boozer, The Richmond has a dining room set-up with an open kitchen and a cool bar for cocktails and bites. Its period features have been lovingly restored alongside contemporary furnishings by interiors designer and antiques dealer Adam Bray (without a hieroglyphic in sight). Even on the bitterly cold Saturday afternoon that we visited, it still has a warm atmosphere (and thankfully some heavy velvet curtains to keep out the chill).

We started with a refreshing non-alcoholic cocktail of elderflower, lime and soda, however you can go all out with a detox-retox Kale Mary, Quince Bellini or Irish coffee.

When it’s cold outside, there’s nothing better than a warming soup, so I started with the Crab bisque, samphire and aioli (£7). The velvety smooth bisque was full-bodied and packed with plenty of juicy crab, punctuated with salty sprigs of samphire.

The creamy, potent aioli on top made it even more luxurious, although I didn’t stir in all of it for fear of overpowering that bold seafood flavour. Every last drop of bisque was mopped up with slices of springy, crusty sourdough boule from a little bakery in Borough Market – definitely the best I’ve ever tasted in a pub.

Steven went for one of the raw dishes – Smoked salmon with avocado, creme fraiche and pickled onions (£9). The oaky smoked salmon simply melted in the mouth and was perfectly matched with silky avocado, tangy pink onions and a light emulsion.

I followed with Spit-roast poussin, pumpkin & sage stuffing, marsala gravy (£18). The poussin was ever so succulent and flavoursome, with a crispy, sticky skin. The pumpkin and sage stuffing was aromatic yet subtle and the rich, meaty marsala gravy brought everything together nicely.

Equally delicious and autumnal was Steven’s Hampshire pork, delica pumpkin, trompettes and port. The nicely browned pork fillet was complimented by caramelised pumpkin and smooth pumpkin purée, slow-cooked trompettes and slivers of soft shallot with dots of port reduction. Both main dishes were so delightfully tasty, with portion sizes that satisfied while leaving a little room for dessert.

Desserts stray from the typical pub formula into French territory and our waiter recommended the two hot desserts to keep us toasty warm. I got my sweet fix with the Apple beignets with caramelised apple and ricotta sorbet (£7). The warm, golden choux fritters were light as air and filled with a sour apple compote and rolled in powdered sugar. While beignets are usually paired with a dipping sauce, I liked the sweet and sour apple contrast and the tartness of the ricotta sorbet.

The dessert with the slight edge, however, was the Brown butter financier, cinnamon poached pears and crystallised almonds (£7). The heavenly financier had a moist, dense texture with an extra treat of whisky sugar syrup poured over the top. The juicy, fragrant pears were dusted with sweet candied almonds and the dish was finished with a glossy crème anglaise. The portion sizes may appear on the small side, but these desserts really pack a punch.

The Richmond is a real asset to Hackney’s dining scene, offering exceptional, creative food that is worthy of the high praise it receives. I’m thrilled to make it my new ‘local’ and can’t wait to see what’s in store at Brett Redman’s new Dalston yakitori restaurant, Jidori. Hopefully an east London restaurant empire could be on the horizon.

Lunch is served at The Richmond from 1pm-3pm on Saturday and 1pm-4pm on Sunday.

Chérie City was a guest of The Richmond

Food images by Chérie City and interiors by Ed Reeve

Christmas, Shopping

Christmas Gift Guide: For Him

December 6, 2015 by cheriecity

Buying for the man in your life may seem difficult, but really it’s quite simple. With your Christmas gift, he will achieve a frangrant air of sophistication with Penhaligon’s No. 33 Eau de Cologne, stay warm under a cosy Ted Baker trapper hat and shake up some superior Christmas libations with the help of Mr Lyan and friends.

Here are some Christmas gifts for him that are sure to inspire this Christmas…

Berlin City Guide, £25, Louis Vuitton
No. 33 Eau de Cologne, £95, Penhaligon’s
Ted Baker Faux Fur Trapper Hat, £45, Selfridges
Slim Bifold Wallet, £170, Shinola
Vintage Weekender Bag, £34, Long Sands
Facial Fuel SPF15, £33, Kiehls
Ultimate Grooming Box, £155, Percy Nobleman
Talisker 10 Gift Set, £38.90, Alexander & James
Good Things to drink with Mr Lyan and Friends by Ryan Chetiyawardana, £16.59, Amazon

Christmas, Newcastle

Christmas in Newcastle

December 5, 2015 by cheriecity

Every Christmas I head back to my hometown of Newcastle-Upon-Tyne to spend the festive season with my family. Seeing the Tyne Bridge all lit up as my train pulls in to Newcastle Central Station, after a few hectic weeks of parties, crowds and tying up all those loose ends, always makes me excited to be home.

This year is a huge change, as I’m spending my first Christmas Day in London with Steven. Following our recent engagement and new work commitments, it seemed like the right time to shake things up. Of course, we’ll still be visiting Newcastle during the festive period to soak up some of the merriment and legendary North East crack (PG humour, if you didn’t already know).

Christmas is one of my favourite times to be back in Geordieland, as there’s always a buzz in the air and so much happening around town. Here are some of my top picks for a canny Christmas in Newcastle…

Fenwick Christmas Window

The Fenwick Christmas window is a real institution in Newcastle and as soon as it’s unveiled, you know Christmas is here. The first Fenwick department store was founded in 1882 by John James Fenwick in Newcastle and every year brings a new creative display. Over the past decade, we’ve been treated to The Snowman, Gulliver’s Travels, Peter Rabbit and even aliens in Santa’s Workshop.

Christmas Markets

In the run up to Christmas, Newcastle’s elegant Grey Street becomes an outdoor marketplace with stalls offering artisan food and drink products. Warm up with mulled wine and mince pies while picking up gifts made by local producers including microbrewery beer, home-made jams, cakes and hand-made chocolates. The Christmas Markets are perfect for finding unique treats that can’t be found on the high street.

Live music at Sage Gateshead

Concert venues don’t come much better than Sage Gateshead. This striking part of the Quayside landscape is world renowned for its cutting-edge design and superior acoustics, as well as being a prestigious music education centre. This Christmas, Sage Gateshead has really pushed the boat out with a programme of live music from St Etienne, he Overtones, Music of Motown and local heroes Smoove & Turrell, as well as The Snowman accompanied by a live orchestra.

Art on the Tyne

I always like to make time to see the latest exhibitions at BALTIC, another vital cultural institution on the Quayside. Not only does it feature world-class exhibitions from international contemporary artists, but it’s a prime spot for dining, shopping and viewing the city from high above. Brian Griffiths’ must-see exhibition Bill Murray: a story of distance, size and sincerity runs throughout the festive period until the end of February.

Christmas Flicks & Fizz

One of my regular haunts in Newcastle is the Tyneside Cinema, a beautifully-restored theatre on Pilgrim Street where you can see the best of independent and world cinema. I love its cosmopolitan Intermezzo Coffee Bar for a pre or post film cocktail or coffee and cake. The cinema’s festive screenings of It’s a Wonderland Life are sure to make you feel all warm and fuzzy for Christmas!

Festive Feasting

Newcastle is a real treat for foodies, whether it’s fine dining at Jesmond Dene House and Six at BALTIC, creative cuisine at House of Tides and Peace & Loaf or high end pub grub at The Broad Chare and Pleased To Meet You.

My Christmas Eve ritual with my mum is to dash around Eldon Square to pick up last-minute Christmas gifts and then reward ourselves with the most delicious Eggs Benedict and Omelette with French fries at my favourite Cafe 21 by acclaimed chef and restaurateur Terry Laybourne.

Street food has really taken off in Newcastle, so be sure to look out for the best vendors including Riley’s Fish Bar, Papaganoush, The Fat Hippo, Patty Smith’s, Pizzette and Dabbawal.

If you’re visiting Newcastle for Christmas or New Year, send me a postcard and share your favourite spots to eat, drink and be merry!