Disclaimer: we received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.
Mother’s Day is all about treating Mum, but what if she can’t have regular chocolate? Don’t worry, PLAY in CHOC has got her covered – and trust us, this isn’t some bland alternative. It’s creamy, dreamy, and perfect for anyone who needs to dodge dairy, gluten, or nuts. Plus, it’s vegan and organic, so you can feel extra good about gifting it!
Now, we all know that finding “free-from” chocolate that actually tastes nice can be a bit of a mission. Sometimes you bite into it and, well… it just isn’t the same. But PLAY in CHOC has cracked it. This chocolate is smooth, not bitter, and made with only three natural ingredients: cacao, vanilla, and coconut. Simple and scrumptious.
The other bonus is it has a third less sugar than your usual chocolate bars. So, if Mum likes to keep things a bit lighter, this is right up her street. The packaging is eco-friendly too, with compostable wrappers, which we absolutely love.
There’s three different sized boxes available – 30g, 60g and 100g and they all contain individually wrapped 10g pieces, making them perfect for popping in a handbag for a cheeky afternoon treat.
So, if your Mum can’t have standard chocolate, or she just fancies trying something a bit different, PLAY in CHOC is the perfect gift.
Disclaimer: we received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.
When I was a child, both Mum and Grandma used to make proper chips in an old-fashioned chip pan, and they were always golden, crispy, and unbelievably tasty. As much as I love chips, I’ve never been a fan of the frozen ones as they always seem to come out of the oven soggy and a bit disappointing. But everything changed when I got an air fryer, suddenly frozen chips were back on the menu! The air fryer manages to make them a lot crispier, and while they’ll never quite match up to the real deal, they’re not a bad option for a quick midweek snack or sneaky late night nibble.
Lamb Weston chips are a new brand that’s been making waves in the freezer aisle so when we got the chance to try some we didn’t need asking twice!
Frozen chips might not have the nostalgia of Mum’s fried ones, but they’re certainly more convenient and a lot healthier than fried chips. Lamb Weston have catered for all tastes with eight different varieties to choose from. So far, we’ve tried the Twister Fries, Grill Fries, and Potato Dippers, and they’ve all passed The Review Studio’s taste tests with flying colours.
The Twister Fries have a brilliant spiral shape that gets even crispier in the air fryer. Each fry is cut from a whole potato, so you get unique curly shapes that are golden and crunchy on the outside but soft and fluffy on the inside. They’re dangerously moreish and taste even better dipped in a bit of BBQ sauce!
The Grill Fries Salt & Pepper are thick, steakhouse-style chips with rugged ridges that hold loads of flavour. Every bite is a perfect mix of crunchy outside and fluffy inside, with just the right hit of salt and pepper. We ate them with fish and mushy peas but they would work just as well with a burger.
But the real stars of the show this week have been the Potato Dippers. No two are the same and the skin has been left on for a bit more flavour and less waste. They’ve got a deliciously crispy skin and soft, fluffy inside, making them perfect for scooping up dips without falling apart. Pair them with a bit of garlic mayo or spicy ketchup, and you’re in chip heaven.
While Lamb Weston’s chips can be cooked in both the oven and air fryer, we found they’re definitely at their crispiest when air fried. With this kind of crunch and flavour, I might just need a bigger freezer!
Disclaimer: This meal was gifted to the reviewer for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are their own.
Tucked away in the charming hamlet of Mitton, right in the heart of the Ribble Valley lies The Three Fishes, a fabulous foodie heaven led by renowned chef Nigel Haworth. With a real passion for local produce and proper, traditional flavours, this place is all about that farm-to-fork goodness. It had been a long time since our last visit and after browsing the enticing menu online we couldn’t wait to tuck into what promised to be a truly special dining experience.
Nigel’s dedication to locally sourced ingredients is evident in every aspect of the menu, with many seasonal elements harvested directly from the restaurant’s kitchen garden or carefully selected from trusted local suppliers. This commitment ensures that each dish is served at peak freshness, resulting in bold, well-balanced flavours that truly shine. From the finest local producers to the restaurant’s own kitchen garden, every ingredient is chosen with care, and the attention to detail elevates even the simplest of dishes. The menu proudly showcases regional treasures like Mrs. Kirkham’s cheese and Morecambe Bay lobster, celebrating the authentic flavours of Lancashire’s rich culinary heritage.
The menu changes with the seasons, meaning there is always something new to discover. On this occasion, we ate from the Farm-to-Fork Tasting Menu, a carefully curated five-course journey through the best that the local land and sea have to offer. Despite it being a midweek evening, the restaurant maintained a lively yet intimate atmosphere, with just the right level of bustle to create a sense of occasion. Service was impeccable, with the knowledgeable staff providing detailed explanations of each dish and offering personal recommendations, particularly when it came to accompaniments for the pheasant. Small but significant touches—such as a waitress noticing our water needed replenishing without being asked demonstrated a level of attentiveness that is all too rare.
The meal commenced with Nigel’s Lancashire Cheese Bread Rolls, made with the renowned Mrs. Kirkham’s Lancashire Cheese. These warm, pillowy rolls were accompanied by a savoury black pea hummus and a bright, herbaceous parsley pesto, an inspired combination of flavors and textures that set the tone for the meal ahead.
Next came the Baked Wilja Potato, sourced from a local farm and presented with samphire butter, fennel coleslaw, and puffed rice. The contrast of crispy, golden skin against the fluffy interior, drenched in rich butter, was simply divine. It was a masterclass in how to elevate a humble ingredient to something truly memorable.
Now, if I had to pick a standout moment from the evening, it would have to be the Morecambe Bay Lobster Soup. A properly well-executed dish, it had a rich, deep-sea flavour that was further enhanced by a bit of cream and a very sensible amount of chili, just enough to make itself known without being overpowering. The addition of sticky rice, along with decent-sized chunks of lobster and haddock, provided a pleasing contrast in texture. Each spoonful was a rather excellent balance of spice and creaminess, and I must say, this is one of those dishes that stays with you – in a good way, of course.
The Ribble Valley Pheasant Breast arrived as a golden-brown schnitzel, fried in pheasant fat for extra depth of flavour, and served with a fragrant herb butter and a spiced crumb. We opted for the super thick chips and cauliflower as accompaniments, though the unexpected highlight was a delightful serving of pheasant shepherd’s pie. Nigel’s philosophy of using every part of the bird resulted in a deeply satisfying dish, succulent minced pheasant with a sweet, moreish flavour, topped with a cloud-like layer of mashed potato.
For dessert, the Foragers Souffle, a delicate apple and bramble souffle was an absolute triumph. Light and fluffy it melted on the tongue and was served alongside a delicious, brown bread ice cream and crunchy croutons, providing a medley of textures that made each mouthful an absolute pleasure. Just when we thought we had finished, a final surprise arrived: a small Eccles cake, its crisp, flaky pastry encasing plump, juicy currants, providing a perfectly sweet ending to an exceptional meal.
Dining at The Three Fishes is a masterclass in how to celebrate local produce with skill, creativity, and a deep respect for the land. Nigel Haworth has created more than just a restaurant, he has crafted an experience that is both comforting and exciting, traditional yet innovative. This is farm-to-fork dining at its finest, and it’s one I’ll be eager to return to again.
5 courses £39 Wednesday & Thursday and £49 on Friday & Saturdays
To book telephone 01254 826666 or email reservations@thethreefishes.co.uk
Disclaimer: We received a meal and drinks free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own
Right in the heart of Deansgate, one of Manchester’s most vibrant stretches, sits a Polish restaurant called Platzki. Arriving on a bitterly cold Sunday lunchtime, we were greeted with warmth, both from the staff and the restaurant’s inviting atmosphere. The industrial-chic design was softened beautifully with plenty of greenery and fresh flowers, creating the perfect balance between contemporary and cosy and is just the kind of place you want to settle into for a long, leisurely meal.
From the moment we arrived, the service was nothing short of exceptional. The staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about the food they were serving. They guided us through the menu with genuine enthusiasm, offering thoughtful recommendations and ensuring that we felt comfortable navigating the array of traditional Polish dishes. Their attentiveness was perfectly balanced, not too overbearing, yet always available when needed, making what could potentially have been an intimidating experience an enjoyable exploration of Polish cuisine. The drinks menu featured an extensive range of cocktails and Polish wines and not being wine experts we followed our waiter’s recommendation and opted for a Polish chardonnay. Light, crisp, and refreshing, it was a perfect match for the meal.
As we awaited our starters, we were offered some Smalec, a traditional Polish rustic spread made from rendered pork fat and served with sourdough bread and pickles. Rich and surprisingly tasty it was balanced beautifully by the sharpness of the pickle giving us a tasty snippet of the Polish treats to come.
Eager to sample a variety of flavours, we opted to share two highly recommended starters. The Pierogi, delicate dumplings filled with velvety cottage cheese and topped with crispy fried onions, were wonderfully soft, satisfying and full of flavour. Meanwhile the Tatar, a hand-chopped, 21-day aged beef fillet tartare, was nothing short of exceptional. Whilst I enjoy a rare steak, eating raw meat was a step into the unknown but the tartare didn’t disappoint. The finely balanced flavours of mustard, spring onion and pickles elevated the dish, making it a real highlight of our meal.
For the main course, we opted for a classic Polish dish – Bigos, a traditional hunter’s stew made with sauerkraut, beef, pork neck, Polish sausage, mushrooms, and a hint of red wine. The stew was robust, rich in tomato and onion flavours, and incredibly hearty. Served with sourdough bread, it was a deeply satisfying dish that showcased the heartwarming nature of Polish cuisine and was just what we needed on a chilly February day.
Our second main was Szaszlyk, a lighter but just as satisfying dish. The grilled chicken thigh skewers had been marinated in kefir, paprika, and thyme and were served with roasted baby potatoes and a creamy dip. The chicken was lovely and tender and packed with flavour and the accompanying pickles, salad and dip complemented the dish wonderfully.
To accompany our mains, we opted for two classic Polish side dishes. The Buraczki, a vibrant beetroot dish mixed with walnuts and mayo which offered an earthy sweetness that paired perfectly with the chicken. The Sauerkraut, mixed with carrot, apple, and onion, was a surprising delight. Having previously found sauerkraut underwhelming, this version was bursting with flavour and was incredibly moreish.
No meal is complete without a sweet finale and as we were both quite full we opted to share a baked cheesecake. Served warm, the creamy texture and subtle sweetness made it the perfect ending to our meal, especially when paired with the homemade chocolate hearts that accompanied it.
This visit marked our first foray into Polish cuisine and it certainly won’t be our last. The combination of a welcoming atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and outstanding food made for a memorable experience. Whether you’re already a fan of Polish cuisine or looking to try something new, Platzki on Deansgate is well worth a visit – we’ll certainly be back soon.
Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.
Easter is big business now, or for the children expecting chocolate it is at least! PLAYin CHOC accommodate all children with their Great Taste Award Winning (2019) chocolate toy boxes which are all dairy, nut, gluten and plastic free.
There’s a whole range of PLAYin CHOC toys. Most of them are boxes of self-assembly, cardboard toys that are part of a range of animals, dinosaurs or a seasonal range which children can collect and put together themselves. With no small moving parts (unlike other toys) they are great for travelling or sitting quietly to play with. There’s the whole box of PLAYin CHOC Organic Chocolate and Surprise Toys which comprises of 6 box toys, in this case, rabbits for Easter! Perfect as part of an Easter Egg Hunt or to give as gifts at an Easter party or birthday favours around Easter.
We also had one each of the Dinosaur and Endangered Animals toy boxes. Inside there’s the toys, set in parts in a cardboard pop-out, an information card and two PLAYin CHOC chocolate nuggets, individual wrapped. The boxes themselves make great building boxes to collect and play with!
Grown-ups aren’t left out with the dairy, nut and gluten free chocolates. We were also sent some boxes of organic dark and ‘milk’ chocolate, all which are made with the same high quality ingredients as the toys. The chocolates are individually wrapped inside the boxes so can be eaten as one big snack or as tiny mid-afternoon treats as a pick-me-up. Can you tell I’m enjoying both types of chocolate on a rainy afternoon?
The dark chocolate is made with Peruvian Cacao and has that dark, intense taste but unusually, isn’t bitter like other chocolates. It doesn’t have any added refined sugar, just the 70% cocoa solids, coconut sugar, creamed coconut and vanilla pods. I think it’s the vanilla pods that make it feel like it’s sweeter and the creamed coconut which gives it the creamy texture. The ‘milk’ chocolates (and the word milk is highlighted here because it doesn’t contain any milk as it’s dairy-free) is a softer chocolate flavour but sweeter than the dark chocolate. The coconut sugar really comes through in this flavour, with both the sweetness and the coconut taste. It’s also nut free and gluten free plus soy free too but has the added vanilla pods and creamed coconut to add the familiar texture and taste of chocolate.
The PLAYin CHOC range is not only great for every day treats, but the more adult selections are fabulous for those of us who like a treat as a grown-up, and even better for those with allergies.
Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.
Thanks to WheyBetter, you can now enjoy a chocolate bar that’s also a high protein bar as part of your high protein or fitness diet! We were sent both the Protein Milk Chocolate and Protein White Chocolate bars to test out.
Both bars com with 17 grams of protein and no added sugar, nut free palm free and with added immune vitamin blend. The 75 gram bars are bigger than usual chocolate bars, and take in vitamins C, D and B12 to add to your nutrition after a workout or a race. As they’re individually wrapped, they’re great for lunch boxes, school trips or after school too and make a difference to the world with their Rainforest Alliance certification.
Each of the bars taste like chocolate is supposed to, which isn’t surprising with the milk Chocolate bar containing 40% cocoa. There’s no sugar in these bars though so they’re not super sweet and without palm oil there’s a slightly more earthy texture to them, but there’s no mistaking that they’re chocolate bars. They’re available at some private gyms across the country and a few store such as Budgens but there are more retails coming on board from January 2025 onwards. To purchase at the moment, see the wholesale prices online or search for a retailer near you:
The outside appearance of The Ivy is deceptive when you consider that the restaurant is wedge shaped and on both Litchfield Street and West Street, where the entrance is, in London’s Theatre Land. The distinctive Ivy Windows which have become their branding, can be seen clearly from both streets as you approach and are directly opposite St Martin’s Theatre where The Mousetrap by Agatha Christie has been playing for more than 70 years.
Inside, the bar dominates the centre of the restaurant which isn’t as expansive as you might have thought. The tables arrange around the bar and towards the back of the room but there are more private rooms out of view – a necessity for the celebrities who frequently choose The Ivy for entertaining. If you walk off the street and ask for a table you’re unlikely to find one, but there’s a slim chance that you’ll get a seat at the bar to eat, which is the same menu as everyone else.
Opening in 1917 for the first time, when Europe was at war and there were very few people in London, The Ivy has in the past decade branched out and opened several Ivy Brasseries around the country. All of them have the stained glass window branding and this original West Street site is ne exception, even after renovation. What’s striking is the attention to detail such as the ivy cut outs on the bar’s drip tray, the artwork which reflects the bold colours of the (obscured) windows and the managers who wear an Ivy brooch to show their responsibility.
The menu is classic and the portions plentiful. From Veal cheeks bourgouignon to the Ivy Classics of The Ivy Burger and Deep-fried haddock and chips, there is something for everyone. The menu at West Street is similar to what you find in the brasseries but with added temptations and some specials you won’t find anywhere else such as Beef Wellington for 2. We also liked the dessert menu, which has staples such as Tiramisu and a selection of cheeses, but with The Ivy’s famous Chocolate Bombe which is a theatre experience in itself when the staff pour hot caramel over the chocolate bombe to reveal ice cream underneath. Not for the fainthearted, it’s worth saving room on the mains for this delicious, decadent treat that The Ivy does so well.
The bar creates a wealth of cocktails, some of which are house specialties going back decades, as well as the usual long selection of spirits. The Ivy is famous for their Martinis though, and the bar staff will happily advise along which Martini route you wish to indulge. Another suggestion would be their Peach Bellini, the Prosecco based tipple which is often enjoyed at breakfast but goes exceptionally well with lunch as well.
The atmosphere is bustling and warm within The Ivy with nearly every seat at every table able to see who walks in the door. From the outside, it’s impossible to see who is seated inside so you have to venture in through the wood and glass Art Deco doors, past the huge vases of fresh flowers and to the hosts on the main desk to see if they have a table, or a bar stool for you. The food is the star of the restaurant though, with sumptuous presentations of classic dishes and something different for anyone looking for a change.
Disclaimer – We have received this item for free or on a loan basis for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.
The invention of the coffee bag has been a lifesaver for a lot of people, especially those who don’t enjoy instant coffee but need the convenience. Purple Coffee produce coffee in all shapes and sizes from whole bean, ground, pods and some rather lovely (and colourful!) coffee bags. We were sent some in a very fetching Purple Coffee tin to try out as part of their new Brew Monday launch for Mental Health Awareness Day on Monday 20th January.
The 16 bags of coffee (probably enough for a whole month in the office or a weeks’ worth at home!) can be found on their website Purple Coffee Co which aims to promote ‘real’ coffee instead of instant. Additionally, Purple Coffee want to help keep down the costs of coffee by providing bags that are less than 50% of the cost of a coffee in a coffee shop and promotes initiatives for young talent and a sustainable agroforestry project in Costa Rica, which obviously is where a lot of coffee is grown.
The coffee bags come in 4 flavours; KO (fully roasted bean, great for mornings), XO (a ‘zingy finisher’), BI (50/50 caffeinated/decaffeinated fuller flavour) and ZZ (chill decaf, for relaxation). Each 20 gram bag produces at least one cup and all of the flavours go great with milk. I think my favourite is the KO as I like the full on, coffee and caffeinated morning cup of java but just as nice is the fact that each tin has a variety of flavours so that you can mix and match throughout the day.
The Purple Coffee Co tin also makes a great gift for someone, especially someone who appreciates coffee!
Disclaimer: We received a free stay and meal for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.
Manchester has always held a special place in my heart. My husband spent his university years there, and I visited often, falling in love with the city’s energy and charm. Returning after so many years and exploring our old haunts, we couldn’t help but marvel at how much Manchester has evolved whilst the warmth and friendliness that define the North remain beautifully intact.
This time, our base wasn’t the humble student digs of our youth but the splendid 4 star Hyatt Hotel Manchester, tucked just behind the home to Manchester’s universities – Oxford Road. The hotel offers two hotels under one roof, the Hyatt Regency with 212 rooms, and Hyatt House, a 116-room aparthotel making it the ideal base for a city break. One challenge we often encounter when visiting cities is finding convenient car parking but thankfully, this wasn’t an issue during our stay, as the hotel is perfectly located next to the secure university car park, providing 24-hour parking for £16.50. For those arriving by train, it’s also conveniently located, a 10-minute walk from Manchester Oxford Road Station or a 20-minute stroll from Manchester Piccadilly.
Opening the door to our room, we were greeted by a spacious room that struck the perfect balance between modern design and comfort. A king-sized bed occupied pride of place and there was also a comfortable chair and sleek, modern desk, perfectly suited for guests visiting the city on business.The pièce de résistance, however, was undoubtedly the floor-to-ceiling windows, offering a stunning view of Manchester at night, with the city’s twinkling lights creating a striking contrast against the dark sky.
The room was spotlessly clean and furnished with everything you might need for a restful retreat. It was tastefully decorated in neutral tones and contemporary textures that whispered rather than shouted sophistication. The spacious bathroom was a pleasant surprise, featuring both a generous shower and a bath, along with luxury toiletries. It was the perfect retreat for unwinding after a day of exploring the city.
The central location is perfect for exploring Manchester, with Oxford Road’s Dutch-style cycle lanes making it a cyclist’s dream and with city bike’s to hire nearby there’s no need to bring your own. For those seeking adventure, the Fallowfield Loop, Britain’s longest urban cycleway, provides a largely traffic-free track for walking or cycling, following the path of a former railway line. Though we plan to return and explore this scenic route on two wheels, our short visit called for a gentler approach and we opted for a leisurely stroll. As we wandered, the streets conjured memories of nightclub queues, post-pub kebabs, and the carefree energy of youth. While Manchester has transformed in many ways, its vibrancy and unmistakable spirit remain as captivating as ever – a city that embraces its evolution while honouring its past.
Back at the hotel, we ate at The Laureate Restaurant with the à la carte menu offering an array of choices at reasonable prices. We began with Calamari Ringsand ChickenWings, the calamari was tender, encased in a light, crispy coating, while the chicken wings had just the right level of spice and succulence to keep us reaching for more. For our main courses, we indulged in two favourites: a richly spiced Chicken Tikka Masala and a beautifully golden Fish and Chips, coated in crispy batter and served with chunky chips and mushy peas. Each dish was perfect and was satisfying without being overwhelming. Despite feeling pleasantly full, we couldn’t resist a dessert. My Lemon Tart was a zesty delight with the raspberry sorbet perfectly complementing the tart. The cheeseboard offered a selection of fine cheeses and rounded off the meal beautifully.
For guests who prefer the comfort of dining in their room, the In-Room Dining Menu offers a variety of options, available from 10:30 AM to 11:00 PM. The menu includes starters, mains, pizzas, and side dishes, alongside a couple of indulgent treats – a cheeseboard and ice cream. There is a charge of £5 for delivery.
Whilst not for me, fitness enthusiasts will find the onsite gym a dream, equipped with Peloton® bikes, treadmills, weights, and more. A perfect way to offset the fine dining and no excuse to miss a gym session whilst away from home!
The following morning, breakfast was nothing short of a feast catering for all tastes and appetites. For those who prefer a lighter start to their day there were cheeses and cold meats, cereals and a wide selection of fruits plus juices and yoghurt. When I’m on holiday I like to indulge in a cooked breakfast so the help-yourself buffet was just what I needed with eggs cooked to perfection, sizzling sausages and delcious bacon as well as other traditional favourites, all washed down with freshly brewed coffee. Had I wanted something that was not on offer, the chef was on hand to create dishes on request.
We really enjoyed our night at the Hyatt Regency Manchester, from the warm welcome we received to the wonderful food and the location which was the perfect base to rediscover Manchester, and we’ve promised ourselves we won’t let so much time pass before our next visit.
Disclaimer: We received a meal and drinks free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.
Nestled right in the heart of Manchester, within the newly refurbished Printworks entertainment complex, stands the Hard Rock Café, a veritable shrine to rock ‘n’ roll and, as it turns out, mighty fine food.
Upon entering we were warmly welcomed and shown to our booth which, given our location, was the ideal spot – situated beneath a display of memorabilia from Oasis – one of Manchester’s most iconic bands. The Hard Rock Café is more than just a restaurant, it’s a celebration of music, culture, and legendary artistry. When you look around the restaurant there is an amazing collection of memorabilia, from guitars autographed by iconic musicians, drum kits on the walls and outfits worn by some of the world’s most famous musicians, every piece tells a story and a meal at the Hard Rock Café is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds.
January, of course, is a month for frugality, as many of us recover from the excesses of Christmas. And so, the two mains for £25 deal (available Monday to Thursday, 12–3 pm) was music to our wallets. While the menu for this offer isn’t as vast as the standard menu, the selection remains delightfully tempting. Choices range from a Caesar Salad with Chicken or Salmon to a classic burger with fries, a grilled chicken sandwich, or a South-Western Chicken Bowl, each each dish tempting enough to make you reconsider those New Year resolutions.
Guided by the expert advice of our ever-attentive server, Andy, we began with the starters: the “One Night in Bangkok Spicy Shrimp” and a mammoth tray of nachos. While the nachos were generous enough to satisfy two, it was the shrimp that truly stole the spotlight, perfectly crispy, tantalisingly spicy, and served on a bed of crunchy coleslaw – it was absolutely delicious and I could easily have eaten a second portion!!
For our main courses, my husband opted for the Caesar Salad with Salmon, while I indulged in the Classic Burger with Fries. The salad was delightfully fresh and crisp and refreshing with large croutons providing a pleasing crunch, while the salmon was cooked to perfection. The burger, was everything a good burger should be – a towering stack of tender beef, melted cheese, and all the classic accompaniments, expertly assembled for maximum satisfaction.
After devouring two courses, we were feeling quite full, but I can never say no to dessert, especially when there’s a hot chocolate fudge brownie on the menu. This show-stopping treat arrived in a towering glass, featuring a warm, gooey brownie as its base, crowned with generous scoops of vanilla ice cream, a fluffy swirl of whipped cream, and a bright red cherry on top. Rich, indulgent, and utterly divine, it was the perfect way to end the meal on a sweet high note.
The atmosphere in the restaurant was relaxed yet lively, with classic rock hits playing at just the right volume to enhance the vibe without overwhelming the conversation. The staff were friendly and efficient, and the diverse crowd, families, couples, and groups of friends—added to the welcoming, inclusive feel of the place.
If you’re in Manchester and looking for a meal that delivers on flavor and fun, the Hard Rock Café is a must-visit. We’ll definitely be back—and probably sooner rather than later!
Walk-ins are welcome, but booking is recommended. For more information or to reserve a table, visit: Hard Rock Café Manchester.
NOT SPONSORED Tucked behind The Ritz and Fortnum & Mason, Maison Francois is a piece of France nuzzled into the London West End scene. The food, like the extensive menu, is quintessentially French and uses the best ingredients in one of the best London locations to keep Londoners happy. Very few people know of its existence either, making this a new find for most casual city diners.
The restaurant opens into an Art Deco floor with woodwork booths and sectioning to give privacy to diners. There’s a huge pewter clock above the passe to the kitchen and the high ceilings makes it easy to talk at any of the tables. The menu is written all in French but the staff are happy to help with any of the items especially the specials and the bar is well stocked, again with specials available to everyone.
Maison Francois is famous for their patisseries but before we get to that stage, the menu is worth talking about. There is a huge choice and everything that you can imagine is French is on there, including some things that aren’t such as types of pasta and breakfast items. The steaks and duck pasta (reginette, ragoût de canard, olives vertes) are particularly good. We also sampled some of the wines which are on show in a huge cabinet behind the waiter’s station. The desserts are also on show, but in the old-fashioned tradition of a dessert trolley. The glass dome shows off the hand crafted cakes and drawers underneath hold even more delights such as macarons and bark.
Downstairs there’s a breakfast bar which turns into a wine bar after 3pm. Again, the theme of open plan works well here as you descend downstairs and see the deli items on show. No reservations are needed here but as it’s downstairs, you can easily hide away or take time out before returning to shopping.
The atmosphere is professional yet low-key with a high level of service but a familiarity of the restaurant and friendly staff. The attentive nature of a French restaurant means you are well catered for, service is quick and the food is top level.
Pros
Huge choice of French cuisine
Excellent desserts and a range of cakes
Service was friendly and efficient
Cons
The menu is entirely in French so you might need a translation from staff
Can be pricy, reflecting on the quality of the food
Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.
To you and me, this is just like rhubarb gin but without the alcohol! For anyone taking part in Veganuary, Ginuary or who has a New Years Resolution to go alcohol-free, this is a life saver and something to look forward to for 2025.
The Clean G Rhubarb Alcohol Free Spirit is also sugar free, but crafted from high quality ingredients to give the flavour of gin, and specifically rhubarb gin, but without the hangover or guilt. It has the fruity rhubarb flavour and can be used just as a gin would be with a tonic or as part of a cocktail but as it’s zero alcohol, you can drink it neat as well. We would suggest trying it out first though to see if you like the flavour and then making up your favourite drink from it! As it’s alcohol free, you can probably find many uses for it, including in ice cubes or an ingredient in jelly if you can get it to set. The possibilities are endless though.
Does it really taste like gin though? The answer is yes, and it has the dryness of gin as well with that yumminess that makes you want to pour another one or share with your friends. The citrus taste along with the sharpness of the rhubarb make it excellent for after dinner at New Years or with friends during January when some people won’t be drinking but still don’t want to have a fizzy soft drink with dinner. It’s sugar and sweetener free and won loads of awards over the past few years so you’re in good company with it too.
Have a look at the Clean G other products including their version of rum, whiskey and straight gin without the flavourings. Maybe 2025’s New Year Resolution to give up alcohol has been to find a new tipple instead?
Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.
Christmas is such a special time, a chance to gather with friends and family and, of course, indulge in delicious food and drink. As much as I enjoy cooking, preparing the festive feast can sometimes feel like I’m running a culinary marathon so when Tower sent me their latest kitchen gadget, a digital 3.5-litre slow cooker from their Good Food range, I was absolutely delighted.
I must admit, I’d never used a slow cooker before, and now I’m wondering how I’ve managed without one all these years. Gone are the days of worrying about oven timings or dashing about like a contestant on Bake Off. Instead, I simply pop the ingredients into the pot in the morning, set the timer, and by teatime, I have a gorgeous meal waiting for me. Meanwhile, I’ve been free to relax with friends, sip a glass of mulled wine, and actually enjoy the festivities.
Whether it’s a cosy supper for two or a feast to feed the entire extended family, the slow cooker handles it all with ease. A bit of prep in the morning is all it takes to create dishes that taste like I’ve been slaving away in the kitchen for hours. And let’s be honest, no one needs to know otherwise!!
This Christmas, I’m especially looking forward to using it for all those turkey leftovers. Turkey curry, turkey casserole even turkey chilli – it’s going to be so easy. The removable aluminium pot can be placed directly on the hob (excluding induction hobs), allowing you to brown your ingredients before transferring the pot back to the slow cooker. This process not only locks in deep, rich flavours but saves on washing up too!
The slow cooker has three different settings, low, high, and a keep-warm function, ensuring the food is ready whenever I need it to be. There’s also a brilliant delay-start function, which means I can schedule the cooking to begin at a time that suits me best. Whether I’m juggling holiday errands or planning around my family’s busy day, this feature is great and means I can have meals ready when I need them.
Cleaning up is a breeze too, thanks to the removable ceramic pot and tempered glass lid, both of which are dishwasher-safe.
In short, it’s a kitchen essential I never knew I needed but now can’t imagine living without and this year I’m going to be spending less time sweating over the stove and more time enjoying the magic of Christmas with my loved ones and leaving the hard work to the slow cooker!
Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.
James May, legendary of Top Gear and The Grand Tour, has launched a new brand of gin. It’s not really surprising that it’s called James Gin is it? We have been sent a cute gift set of James Gin samples (Asian Parsnip, London Drizzle and California Dreamgin’) to try out. Yes, you read that correctly, one of them is made with Asian Parsnip! We also received James’ new book on gin cocktails called James Gin Big Book of Cocktails, which somewhat less surprisingly, is actually a diminutive book but does contain a lot of gin cocktail recipes!
James makes the gin himself in what he describes as an ‘alarmingly cold’ shed in Wiltshire. He doesn’t make it all on his own, but has the help of expert gin maker Hugh Anderson of Downton Distillery. The idea of Asian Parsnip was all down to James though. He wanted to make a parsnip gin that reminded him of Blighty (damp, root vegetable) but presumably it was so damp and root vegetable-like that he needed to spice it up with some Asian spices. The Asian Parsnip gin has a slightly unusual taste with the spices coming through later to offset the root vegetable tone. It’s perfectly drinkable though, and works well with tonic water which is how I consumed it.
James Gin London Drizzle is a lighter taste, and I’m told it’s made from beetroot, orange, bay and ginger to make a slightly more fruity gin. It’s slight drier than I like though, but again works well with tonic water and gives you an idea of the flavour in order to buy a bigger bottle. The James Gin California Dreamgin’ (yes the ‘g’ is in the wrong place to give it the unusual name) is made of mushrooms. James says that it’s made of girolle mushrooms for those who recognise that meat is murder but if you’re just in it for the gin, then this umami gin is for you. The mushroom gin is flavoured with oregano, coriander and lemon peel with some added spices to give a unique flavour. This gin on its own, in small doses, is actually quite refreshing but you obviously can’t drink a lot of it at 40% alcohol so adding a flavoured tonic would be advisable.
My favourite? The California Dreamgin’ because of the unusual taste, and the fact that I can tell people that they’re drinking a gin made of mushroom! All in all, a useful and very enjoyable gift set.
Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.
A book which is dedicated to gardeners and growers alike, with no prejudice regarding why you grow herbs and vegetables (cocktail anyone?) by writer Lady Muck. You’ll pick up gardening tips, morsels of information about Lady Muck’s life, past and present, and have a few laughs at the shenanigans she gets up to, too.
Having previously worked in The City, Lady Muck began writing articles for magazines when she started her own herb garden. Admittedly, she only started growing to be able to garnish her homemade cocktails with her home grown plants, but that grew to growing lots of other herbs, vegetables, fruits and flowers. The short chapters detail her journey along the way and tell the story of how a cocktail herbalist got to a top tier gardener, notwithstanding ‘help’ from her husband along the way.
The book is organised into article-length chapters with bold, colourful illustrations along the way. Each chapter tells the story of Lady Muck gardening, and her life with His Lordship, her husband. It’s very funny, and a narrative on modern day marriages especially past a certain age. Think Bridget Jones but older, and with even more cocktails but a few wellies and soggy lettuces along the way. Very entertaining, fans of Lady Muck will love it, and anyone looking for a stocking filler, light reading for commuting or a holiday read will relish it.
Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.
Yes, you can give gin for Christmas this year that’s both pretty and top notch! Bathtub Gin have a limited edition bottle in collaboration with fellow Kent companion, Harlie Brown who has created a beautiful punch bowl to match. We were sent the Bathtub Gin to try, which doesn’t have to be bought with the punch bowl but together they make a fantastic gift for any gin lover!
Bathtub Gin is made the old-fashioned way in a copper pot still with infusions of juniper, orange skin, coriander, cassia, cloves and cardamom. Sampled periodically, the still process is adjusted according to taste. The resulting gin is high quality and delicious, and not like the mass produced gin you find in High Street supermarkets. The Tonbridge, Kent based distillery hand wrap each of the bottles with a brown paper design by Harlie Brown then strung and dipped with wax for sealing. Bathtub Gin has won over 40 awards including gold at the World Gin Awards in 2019, 2020 and 2022.
The neat Bathtub Gin is potent at 40.3% with the aroma of the juniper hitting first. This is a gin for those who love the scent of gin and then savour the flavour. Drunk neat, the juniper flavour wanes to the cloves and cardamom taste. We paired Bathtub Gin with a fruit tonic and a slice of lemon to bring out the flavour. There’s a reason Bathtub Gin has paired up with Harlie Brown to create a punch bowl – it makes wonderful punch! The bowl can be bought as part of the gin and punch bowl set here: Bathtub Gin and Harlie Brown Punch Bowl Set.
It’s a great gift with the theatre of the string and waxed cork to unwind in front of guests or to enjoy as part of a celebration.
Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.
As we approach Dry January, Jamu Wild Waters makes an excellent alternative to alcohol whilst being more exciting than just plain water or sparkling water in a can. With 100% natural ingredients, each can contains zero sugar, no artificial sweeteners and is very low calorie at 18-20 calories each, depending on the flavour. Even better news, there’s 5 grams of prebiotic plant fibre per can and added Vitamin C and Zinc for immune support.
The belief of Jamu Wild Water is to make healthy living, and especially fizzy drinks, which are also good for the environment. That’s why they don’t use plastic in their products, instead favouring the aluminium cans which are recyclable and cardboard that contains up to 70% recycled products. Made in the UK, there’s a lower carbon footprint when Jamu Wild Water isn’t shipped across the sea and the waste products are easily recycled in the UK too.
Jamu Wild Waters comes in three flavours; Sparkling Blood Orange, Sparkling Lemon and Sparkling Raspberry. The prebiotic factor doesn’t affect the taste, with the sparkling water being bright and each flavour being distinctly different. You can taste the lemon botanical amongst the bubbles, and the Blood Orange flavour is very citrussy! My favourite though is the Raspberry flavour, with a slightly sweet, fruity taste and the carbonated bubbles add a lightness that makes you think that you’re drinking something alcoholic. There’s no reason why you couldn’t create a non-alcoholic cocktail using Jamu, or likewise add it to children’s lunchboxes. I can’t speak of the long-term effect of Jamu Wild Waters’ prebiotics but it can’t be a bad addition to the larder!
Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.
Buying Christmas gifts for teenagers can be a real challenge, but I’ve found something that’s guaranteed to go down a treat, these incredible sweet and chocolate bouquets from The Sweet Bouquet Emporium. They’re the ultimate treat for anyone with a sweet tooth and make a fantastic Christmas gift for all those hard to buy for people that we all know and love.
Now whilst I love a bouquet of flowers, a chocolate bouquet is a real game-changer! Perfect for any occasion, but especially magical at Christmas, these beauties tick all the boxes. They’re not just delicious (and who doesn’t love a bit of chocolate?), but they’re also put together so beautifully, you almost don’t want to eat them… almost!
What’s brilliant about these gifts is the range of options you can choose from. Whether you’re a fan of Haribo, Ferrero Rocher, Dairy Milk, Galaxy, or retro sweets like Rainbow Drops and Love Hearts, there’s a bouquet for everyone. Each one is carefully arranged in a colour-coordinated box with matching tissue paper and ribbon, giving it a sophisticated yet fun look. The chocolates and sweets are displayed like a floral arrangement, which adds that all-important wow factor.
The Galaxy Chocolate Bouquet costs £28.95 and is a chocolate lovers dream It includes:
2 large 114g bars of Galaxy Cookie Crumble,
6 smaller 42g bars (3 each of Smooth Milk and Smooth Caramel),
3 Ripple bars, and
3 bags of Galaxy Minstrels.
For those who love a nostalgic treat, the Classic British Sweet Bouquet is packed with retro sweets like Refreshers, Haribo, Double Dips, Giant Fizzers, and Love Hearts. It’s a delightful trip down memory lane and a perfect gift for sweet lovers of any age, priced at £32.95.
Just like with a traditional bouquet of flowers, you can add a personalised message to your chocolate or sweet bouquet, making it an extra special gift. Plus, with delivery available across the UK, it’s so easy to send a thoughtful surprise to friends and family, no matter how far away they are. It’s a fabulous alternative to flowers, who wouldn’t love a bundle of sweet treats arriving at their doorstep?!
Whether you’re shopping for teenagers, friends, or that one person who’s impossible to buy for, a chocolate or sweet bouquet isn’t just a gift—it’s a centre piece, a conversation starter, and a guaranteed way to brighten someone’s day.
So if you want to bring some sparkle to someone’s Christmas, these bouquets are a no-brainer. Trust me, you’ll want to order one for yourself too!
Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own
If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate indulgence this festive season, look no further than a bar of FATSO Chocolate. Made from the finest single-origin cacao, every bite is a journey into rich dark chocolate heaven. This isn’t the kind of chocolate that you’d scoff down in one go, unless of course you’re made of money or don’t have the slightest respect for good chocolate! It’s rich, smooth and incredibly tasty!
FATSO sources their chocolate exclusively from a Columbian family owned business and co-operative called Luker. The company are 100% ethically driven and they grow delicious, sustainable cocoa that has been awarded the highest chocolate classification, FINO DE AROMA. They also work closely with a network of farmers, alliances and communities to improve social welfare, biodiversity and farming practices. This means that the chocolate doesn’t just taste good – it does good, too.
The 150g bars are packaged in recyclable cardboard boxes, making them the ideal size to slip into a Christmas stocking. Just imagine it, Christmas morning, the stockings are opened, and there it is – a bar of FATSO chocolate waiting to be unwrapped. Fast forward to later in the day, and you’re curled up in front of the fire, blanket wrapped around you, savouring each bite. It’s the ultimate festive indulgence.
And how does it taste? In a word sensational! My favourite is the Sweet Tart bar, inspired by the classic Bakewell Tart (my favourite pudding) it’s a 60% cacao masterpiece loaded with cherries, almonds, and shortbread. The shortbread brings a delicate sweetness that balances the richness of the dark chocolate whilst the cherries bring a lovely tang, and the almonds give it a satisfying crunch.
The quality of FATSO chocolate is exceptional, easily the best I’ve tasted in a quite a while. One bite and you will see that their chocolate is a world apart from your average supermarket chocolate bar. At £6.95 for a 150g bar it is quite indulgent but you are paying for quality chocolate – just keep it out of the way of the children and enjoy every piece!
Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.
Gin – everybody loves it, young, old, and everyone in between. And why wouldn’t they? It’s versatile, sophisticated, and downright delicious. Whether you’re indulging yourself or trying to please that hard to buy for friend or relative, you simply can’t go wrong with a bottle of gin.
As Christmas draws near, there’s no better time to embrace the magic of a fine Scottish gin and Rock Rose Premium Scottish Gin from Dunnet Bay Distillers is a great choice for both drinking and gifting this festive season. This isn’t some run-of-the-mill, slap-a-fancy-label-on-it gin – far from it. This gin has been lovingly crafted with incredible precision. Founders Martin and Claire put their hearts (and a whopping 55 attempts!) into perfecting the recipe before landing on the final version in 2014. What they’ve bottled is a true taste of Caithness, the rugged, windswept corner of Scotland where the air is wild, the sea roars, and the local botanicals seem destined to be turned into something extraordinary.
And speaking of the bottle, what a stunner. A beautiful stoneware masterpiece that screams, “I’m worth every penny.” It’s the sort of thing you’d happily display on a shelf for all your guests to admire even when empty!
Now let’s get onto the important stuff – the taste. When I taste a gin for the first time, I always go back to basics, no fancy mixers, just a light, unflavoured tonic to let the gin do the talking. And let me tell you, Rock Rose does not disappoint. The juniper hits you first, bold and unapologetic, but it’s quickly followed by this floral-fruity warmth that’s just what you need on these cold winter evenings. And once I’d finished my classic G&T it was time for cocktails! Whether you’re whipping up a posh martini or something festive with berries, Rock Rose adds that perfect touch of warmth and flavour to keep you glowing all night long.
At 41.5% ABV and around £36 a bottle, it’s a luxury worth every penny. So, if you want to be the queen (or king) of Christmas gifting this year give a bottle Rock Rose Gin. I’d be thrilled to find one under the tree and so will your lucky recipient. Cheers!
Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.
Whether you’re at work and wanting to grab something different for the time of year, or out shopping at the weekend and need a break, Caffe Nero have a new menu for Christmas 2024 that includes sandwiches, cakes and drinks that we can all enjoy. We were sent off (happily) for a working lunch to find a few of Caffe Nero’s yummy delights!
All of the items we tested are on Caffe Nero’s Festive Menu. We started with the Pigs Under Blankets Panini and the New Italian Festive Porchetta Focaccia. Both sandwiches are best when heated up, which the Caffe Nero staff are happy to do as they make your hot drink. We liked the Pigs Under Blankets for the festive sausages, bacon and added onion relish and when it’s hot, it’s especially nice! The Italian Porchetta Focaccia has not just the porchetta ham but mozzarella and pesto. This sandwich is sweeter than the Pigs Under Blankets and you can taste the pesto and mozzarella most with the ham and the sweetness of the focaccia bread being second.
We then tried one of the delicious Caffe Nero Classic Mince Pie. Made with shortbread pastry and filled with raisins, currents, sultanas and mixed peel with spices, this was a very sweet mince pie which can be eaten hot or cold. I chose to have it cold with my hot panini sandwich but you could add cream or ice cream to this easily. The mince pie is really sweet, and has a lot of filling and really light pastry to it too. We would have tried a few drinks that day but the coffee machine was broken, but seeing as we still had a lot to try, we went back another day!
Next day we tried the Festive Feast Panini with bacon, chicken, cranberry & apricot stuffing and cranberry sauce in a sourdough panini. This panini was also heated up and tasted of sweet cranberry and chicken with a herb-tasting panini. The New Brie, Bacon & Cranberry Panini was also warmed which allowed the Brie to melt all over again and give the counter-taste to the bacon and cranberry. We also got a cake today, a delicious New Black Forest Chouxnut. If you’re not familiar with a chouxnut, it’s a ring doughnut made with choux pastry which is filled with a Black Forest cream and topped with cherry ganache. The filling is incredibly sweet and the topping makes it very decadent – great for work or a treat and even better if you can share it with someone!
We also tried the New Tiramisu Latte. This latte has a tiramisu syrup flavouring and dusting of chocolate powder, and even has a sponge finger added on top to give it more of the tiramisu dessert flavour! We liked this for the heartiness of the latte and the added tiramisu coffee and chocolate flavouring which made it feel extra Christmassy.
We loved the variety of the sandwiches, cakes and drinks, and there were so many to choose from that we couldn’t try them all. They’re full of flavour and have lots of Christmas spirit to them. All of the Caffe Nero Festive Menu is available to view online (we made our choices before we even left the office!) and are all in store from now on. Vegan and Vegetarian options also available.
Disclaimer: We received this product free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.
Let’s talk about Christmas crackers, they’re such a big part of the festive season – the bang when you pull them, the silly paper hat, the classic dad joke… but now, there’s a fabulous grown-up twist on the traditional cracker – the Vinca Wine Tasting Cracker!
Inside each cracker, you’ll find not one, not two, but three mini cans of Sicilian wine: a pale rosé, a crisp white, and a smooth red. Talk about elevating your cracker game! These crackers are made from sturdy card with beautifully folded ends to give that iconic cracker shape. They’re finished with two hand-tied black ribbons and they’ll look very impressive on the table on Christmas day.
Christmas is all about eating, drinking, and being merry and these crackers have it all covered. Let’s be honest, a can of wine beats a fortune-telling fish or a mini screwdriver any day. Plus, you’re doing your bit for the planet too, with no plastic tat inside so it’s a win-win all round.
Not only do they look great on your Christmas table, but they also take care of the first round of drinks. Less stress for the host and more fun for everyone—what’s not to love?
The crackers cost £15 and are available from Vinca or John Lewis
Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.
If you’re looking for a gift for the tea lover this Christmas, the Mariage Frères Noel Royal Tea is a safe bet. This loose tea comes in its own gorgeous, air tight tin which can be used again but the Christmassy red packaging is perfect for the Christmas Lunch table, in a stocking or even just on its own.
Mariage Frères Noel Royal Tea is a black tea with fruit pieces added to give a more fragrant, fruity flavour. Consumed without milk but left to brew for 5 minutes (I use a loose tea strainer) it takes approximately 2.5 grams of tea to make a cup. As the tin contains 80 grams in all, that’s 32 cups of tea that can be made from just one tin! One for every day of advent or suitable for the whole family throughout the Christmas period.
The aroma of the tea when you open the packet is overwhelmingly fruity, with its sweet tones and fresh black tea fragrance underneath. It takes all of the 5 minutes to brew the tea as it’s slightly weak with only a minute or two, and I found that even after 5 minutes it didn’t become too strong so I could recommend making a pot of tea with Noel Royal.
At £28 a tin it’s for the tea connoisseurs and lovers of fragrant teas but makes a great gift for Gran or as part of a hamper at Christmas time. Noel Royal is part of the Royal Fairy range by Mariage Frères this Christmas which can be found on their website: https://www.mariagefreres.com/en/tea/tea-collections/royal-fairy-teas.html
Disclaimer: We received these products free of charge for the purpose of this review and all thoughts and opinions are our own.
If you’re looking to bring a touch of Italian elegance to your Christmas celebrations this year, then the charming tradition of Italian aperitivo is just the thing. This pre-dinner ritual not only awakens the palate and sets the stage for a delicious meal but also encourages guests to relax and socialise. At Christmas, aperitivo comes into its own, picture your friends and family gathered before dinner, sipping on sparkling cocktails whilst chatting and snacking. It’s easy, elegant and brimming with the festive buzz we all love.
But Aperitivo is more than just a drink, it’s a great gift too as it generally comes in bottles so stunning you’ll barely need to wrap them. A simple gift tag and a contrasting bow are all it takes to create a show stopping present. They’re the perfect choice for anyone who loves a bit of sophistication and let’s be honest, the brightly coloured bottles look great in a drinks cabinet or on a kitchen shelf. Pair one with some cocktail glasses, a cocktail shaker or some gourmet nibbles and you’ve got a great Christmas gift.
ITALICUS Rosolio di Bergamotto has been created by Giuseppe Gallo and is inspired by the amazing flavours of his Amalfi Coast childhood. This aromatic liqueur delivers a perfectly balanced taste of Italy, with refreshingly bright citrus flavours from bergamot, a fruit best described as a cross between a sour orange and a lemon.
Grown, harvested, and distilled in Turin, ITALICUS features notes of ripe bergamot orange, light bitterness, and subtle floral spices. The bottle itself is a work of art with the design inspired by Italy’s architectural heritage and resembling the columns of ancient Rome. The marbled black and white stopper taking inspiration from Northern Italy’s gothic cathedrals. The aquamarine hue? It’s a clever trick of yellow liquid in blue glass, evoking the sparkling tones of the Amalfi Coast.
Drink it with Prosecco or Champagne for a ITALICUS Spritz and garnish with green olives for a touch of saltiness. Or shake things up with the ITALICUS Cup, blending tonic and grapefruit soda for a zesty twist on a classic Margarita.
Savoia is a certified vegan vino aperitivo that boasts a complex blend of 24 botanicals, including bitter orange, gentian root, pink grapefruit, and warming winter spices like cardamom and ginger. It is available in two flavours, Rosso and Orancio.
Savoia Rosso, includes a touch of Marsala wine while Savoia Orancio channels the exotic flavours of saffron and pomegranate, drawing from Marco Polo’s Silk Road adventures. Both are ideal for classic cocktails like a Negroni, Spritz, or Garibaldi, or why not try inventing a few of your own? You can find a selection of recipes on their website, casa-savoia.com.
Like the Italicus Rosolio Di Bergamotto the design of the Savoia bottles pays homage to Italy’s royal heritage, with nods to Turin, the first capital of unified Italy. The wooden stopper evokes the Mole Antonelliana building, and the horizontal infinity symbol represents the countless ways Savoia can be enjoyed. With an ABV of 18.6%, the Rosso’s design even marks 1861, the year of Italian unification.
These bottles make great Christmas gifts, whether it’s for the cocktail enthusiast ready to shake things up on Christmas Day or for Granny looking to try something a bit different. Either way, they are sure to be a festive hit!
Disclaimer – We received this item free for the purpose of this review/feature but all words and opinions are our own.
There’s nowhere better than The Ivy this Christmas to meet up with friends, celebrate with family or finish off a joyous evening at the theatre. With The Ivy’s new festive menu, you can take the work out of Christmas and dine on their sumptuous, all-Christmas menu. We visited The Ivy Market Grill at Covent Garden this week to see the Christmas lights turned on and start the celebrations with a gorgeous meal!
All venues of The Ivy throughout the country are decorated from now until New Year with an Alpine theme of snowmen, skiing and winter chalets. Here in Covent Garden, we couldn’t move for the amount of people stopping to admire the snowmen, skis and the festive trees at the front door and have their photo taken. As you enter, the restaurant is dotted with fully lit Christmas trees throughout the floor, providing a backdrop to each of your yuletide photos.
We were also privy to the luxurious private dining rooms which were set up and ready for guests that evening. There are two private dining rooms at The Ivy Market Grill in Covent Garden, one which can sit 18 on a long table or more on 3 round tables, and the other room comfortably seats 10-12. Each room had a Christmas tree and lots of candles to create the Christmas mood, with each table laid with candelabras and floral centre pieces. A perfect setting for your department outing, or to meet up with family without the hustle and bustle of the bar and other patrons.
Upstairs, the Covent Garden level tables are split between outside dining (with appropriate heating and throws to keep warm!) or indoors with booths, tables or at the bar. The atmosphere on this Tuesday night was much like a Friday with lots of people dropping in for after work dinner and drinks. We tried out some of the staples on the menu including this Stilton salad and then the smoked salmon and rye bread. For mains we had seabass and duck curry then ice cream with shortbread and I tried the Birthday Dessert Box – a luxurious dessert of a golden orb, vanilla ice cream, honeycomb pieces, chocolate strands and a hot caramel sauce poured over, with a taste of birthday cake and a huge amount of calories! It’s presented in a ‘box’ which reveals the dessert underneath.
This Christmas, The Ivy have a special festive menu which includes some of your favourites like The Ivy 1917 Cured Smoked Salmon like we tried above, plus some takes on the usual dishes. There’s the Goose, Turkey and Duck Shepherd’s Pie which is a step-up from the Shepherd’s Pie you find on the menu all year round, and of course being Christmas, there’s the obligatory Turkey Ballotine with all of the Christmas trimmings. There’s also some new cheeky extras – like the Pigs In Blankets side dish! Two courses (served until 6:30pm) are available for £55 or 3 courses (available 11:30am until close) is £60.
It’s not just the A La Carte menu that’s been updated but this year, you will be able to sample the Boxing Day Brunch with The Ivy, complete with a Bloody Mary and brunch served all day.
The Ivy is open on Christmas Eve all day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day as well where there’s a great 3-course menu for £87.50 per person. For dinner on the 2nd quarter of the 21st century, you can sample all of the delights of The Ivy without any of the leftovers!
Finish off your meal at any of The Ivy’s bars. We were treated to the Nyetimber Classic Cuvee and there are some delicious Christmas-inspired cocktails to try including the Christmas Mojito, Fig Leaf & Pear Negroni and Ginger & Honey Margarita.
I cannot wait to go back to The Ivy later this month when I meet up with friends for our annual Christmas dinner. We love the food, and the service is always so special plus the atmosphere at this time of year is exactly as you dream it should be – Alpine Christmas all the way.
The Review Studio 