Bites
Gossip, launches, sightings and the like brought to you direct from Blue Tomato towers…
The Shaftesbury’s Re-launch
It’s rare that Blue Tomato ventures too far out of (comfort) zones 1 and 2 but we decided to make an exception in honour of The Shaftesbury’s re-launch in Richmond; and we’re glad that we did. [continue reading]
Blueprint Cafe Goes Back to its Roots
With Heston Blumenthal putting the culinary rulebook through a blender and so many other chefs in thrall to his wacky way of cooking, it can be refreshing to visit a restaurant that values the quality of the ingredient above else. Michelin starred chef Mark Jarvis is teaming up with well-established suppliers Secretts to celebrate the Tower Bridge Summer Festival and devised a menu that inaugurates the ‘Summer of Seasonality’ at Blueprint Café. [continue reading]
Burritos by Fax!
Whether it’s to brighten up the Monday Blues, a boss treating their team, or to Thank God it’s Friday, offices ordering in bulk is not out of the norm and is growing increasingly popular – we are certainly not complaining. [continue reading]
Imli Takes A Gamble on Naanwiches
One of the world’s best-loved snacks was invented by the Earl of Sandwich, who reportedly asked for two slices of bread with a piece of meat to be brought to his card table so that he could continue his game without having to leave to eat. God only knows what this practical-thinking gambling addict would think of an Indian restaurant serving ‘naanwiches’ in honour of British Sandwich Week, but we decided to roll the dice and give it a taste ourselves. [continue reading]
Gregg Wallace Appoints New Head Chef
“If it ain’t broke don’t fix it.” A lovely saying that has been used by lazy people for the past three decades. It makes sense to leave something that’s working successfully untouched, however, it implies that there is a point that can be reached where there is no room left for improvement. Well, in the restaurant industry in particular, there is no such point. When restaurants stop striving for perfection, then they simply turn into any other mediocre widespread chain. [continue reading]
St Martin’s Courtyard and Seven Dials Event
We love shopping, we love discounts, and we love complimentary noshes and drinks. These three objects of affection will come together at an exciting spring shopping event at St Martin’s Courtyard and Seven Dials. [continue reading]
Make Your Sandwich a Glamwich!
When was the last time you had a really excellent homemade sandwich? No, we’re not talking about a plain, but effective, peanut butter sandwich– but something really, really good. If you’re racking your brain, put the glam back in your sandwich right now with a new app from Pilgrims Choice. Yes, it is possible to make a fantastic creation with your own two hands (who needs Pret?); you just need the right technology. [continue reading]
New Burger Range at T.G.I. Friday’s!
For the burger-lovers among us, nothing sounds better than a whole menu devoted to different tasty varieties. That’s exactly what T.G.I. Friday’s has cooked up, launching a nine-burger menu, a year and a half in the making. [continue reading]
Cream Tea at Roux at the Pembury
If you’re like us, you’re always looking for a chic new spot to take tea. After all, it’s an occasion deserving of an elegant setting. You’ll find that in Roux at the Pembury, the stylish bar in Michel Roux Jr’s acclaimed restaurant, Roux at Parliament Square. Historically located on the doorstep of Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament, it’s just the place to rub elbows with MPs. [continue reading]
Summer at the Roof Gardens
The summer is almost upon us. Do you know what that means? Fun things to do at The Roof Gardens, 100 feet up on High Street Kensington! What exactly do I mean by fun things? Well, here is a sampling of the events that they have planned for summer 2012. [continue reading]
Rock and Rose Restaurant
Are you sick and tired of the excessive number of average chain restaurants in London? Are you looking for something new, and a bit different? Oh, and are you actually willing to leave the city? Because if so, then there´s a restaurant that you should really check out. [continue reading]
“Diamond Union”
We’re sure you´ve been bombarded by ways to celebrate the Queen´s Diamond Jubilee this summer (especially from us) and we’re even more sure that you´re sick of hearing about the Queen´s Diamond Jubilee. Here´s the thing though – you should be excited for this wonderful day! It’s going to be a corker of a day for the Queen, and it´s going to be an even better day for you. Do you know why? Because it´s another excuse for shameless self-indulgance. Plus, while the rest of the world will continue on with their lives, we all get an extra day to party. [continue reading]
Daphne’s Bring the Outside Inside
How Does Daphne’s Garden Grow? Well, In Their Restaurant, Of Course… Dining al fresco in London can be a risky business, what with the weather Gods shedding sunshine and sprinkling showers with such bi-polarity that an outfit consisting of sandals and an umbrella can actually be considered appropriate attire outside of Dalston. [continue reading]
Harrods Serves the World
Harrods always serves up some classy eating, whether it’s takeaway for dinner or a meal during a shopping outing. This month, visit Harrods’ Traiteur counter for some gastronomic diversity. The department store’s new range, Harrods Serves the World, offers luxury foods from around the world. [continue reading]
Michel Roux Meal Kits!
What do you do if you don’t have the money for meals out or the time for homemade meals in? Do you resign yourself to the ‘ping’ of the microwave and glumly munch standing up in the kitchen? No! You turn to Scratch, the brand for people who like cooking but need a meal in a snap. Each box contains premium pre chopped, washed, and measured ingredients free of additives or preservatives as well as a simple set of instructions. You’ll never need more than a wooden spoon and two pots or pans to create a full meal in under ten minutes. [continue reading]
Bombay Sapphire ‘Ginbilee’ Masterclasses at The Rib Room
Gin is quintessentially British. Not only does London Gin have an official EU definition, gin and tonic happens to be the Queen’s favourite tipple. In celebration of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, iconic brand Bombay Sapphire has teamed up with The Rib Room Bar and Restaurant to host a series of interactive ‘Ginbilee’ masterclasses, on offer for a month prior to the Jubilee weekend. [continue reading]
FRAE Frozen Yogurt
Frozen yogurt (“froyo” if you will) is definitely one of our favourite food explosions of late. We place ourselves firmly in the “more is more” category and smother our vanilla with all sorts of fruit and sweet toppings. With its all-natural, high quality ingredients, FRAE is at the top of London’s frozen yoghurt scene, and Harvey Nichols agrees. After opening at 130 Kings Road on 15th March, FRAE launched another location on Monday in Knightsbridge at Harvey Nichols’s 5th floor food hall. [continue reading]
Beer, Spice & All Things Nice at The Cinnamon Club
Sugar and spice and everything nice; add in some beer, ale and cider, and you’ve got yourself a party! That’s the idea that The Cinnamon Club had, which is why they have created a special ‘Beer & Spice’ menu to be offered in their downstairs bar until the end of April. [continue reading]
28°-50° Wine & Workshop to open in Marylebone
Good news for fans of 28°-50° Wine & Workshop, which endows The City with interesting wines and top-notch cuisine. Restaurateurs Xavier Rousset and Agnar Sverrisson will open a new 28°-50° location in early June of this year. [continue reading]
Delicious Ireland at Selfridges
From smoked salmon to chocolate fudge, the best of Irish produce is on display at Selfridges in London’s Oxford Street this month, for the first ever Delicious Ireland event. For three weeks, the Food Hall will be showcasing some of Ireland’s finest food and drink producers, along with daily cookery demonstrations by a huge range of influential chefs. [continue reading]
Indian food, wine, and a bloke called Hans.
In a stunning Grade II-listed building, a former magistrate’s court, you’ll find Cafe Spice Namaste, and you will most definitely recognise its Executive Chef and Proprietor. Cyrus Todiwala OBE DL runs the fantastically colourful Pan-Indian restaurant with his wife Pervin, and a staff of 30. [continue reading]
My Grapefruit Cookery Class with Lisa Faulkner
Though I adore grapefruit, I don’t experiment with it much in the kitchen. Grapefruit is usually a breakfast snack or a fruit fix for me. However, I find the idea of combining citrus and savoury intriguing, so I was excited to learn more during a special event at La Cucina Caldesi in Marylebone. On 4th April I joined fellow foodies for a cookery masterclass hosted by Lisa Faulkner, who teamed up with Florida Grapefruit to demonstrate some simple, lovely recipes. Florida Grapefruit produces the sweetest, juiciest grapefruit I’ve tried. The brand just might convince some of you to forgo the spoonfuls of sugar and enjoy the fruit plain. [continue reading]
Old Fashioned Sweet Shoppe Themed Cocktails at Reunion Bar
This one goes out to everyone who has drooled over the sweetshop in “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory”, stuffed paper bags full of penny sweets (remember when they were actually a penny?!), and reminisced about the days when the local corner shop was king. The chic Réunion bar at The Grosvenor Hotel (a BT fave) has launched a limited edition, bespoke, Old Fashioned Sweet Shoppe themed cocktail menu. Available throughout April, it’s sure to attract those who are kids at heart. [continue reading]
Little Dish Party!
This is one for the kids – but, we guess, also for the adults who have kids that desperately need occupying… [continue reading]
Congratulations to The Capital Hotel!
Congratulations are in order for The Capital Hotel in Knightsbridge, as they have recently been awarded the Tea Guild’s Award of Excellence for Top London Afternoon Tea 2012! [continue reading]
Karaoke Box Soho Relights its Fire!
Complete and utter humiliation; that is exactly what one would expect to feel after a long night at a karaoke bar. Surprisingly enough though, after four hours of singing (or was it shrieking?) at the Karaoke Box Soho re-launch party on Saturday night, the only resulting feelings were of pure joy and exhilaration. Oh, and a bit of exhaustion as well. [continue reading]
Dim Sum Masterclass at Ping Pong
I’m not sure what I expected when I was asked to go to Ping Pong for a ‘Dim Sum Masterclass’, but having heard there was a whole £100 at stake for whoever made the best dumplings, I decided to go with my competitors hat on. [continue reading]
Ceviche Dinner at Gaucho Piccadilly
Gaucho is one of those restaurants that manage to be grand, luxurious, and achingly cool, all at the same time. At the Piccadilly location, luminous chandeliers overlook black banquettes, and cowhide covers chairs, ottomans, and the wall. Adjacent to the restaurant is Cavas De Gaucho, their specialist wine boutique (no we’d never heard the term before either). Its top-floor dining lounge offers live music and entertainment until late. One can host private events within Cavas De Gaucho, the main restaurant, or at 19 Swallow Street, within the vaulted sherry cellars. [continue reading]
FREE Burritos at Tortilla TOMORROW!
Free food; need I say more? Probably not, but indulge me. Tomorrow, on 4th April, Tortilla will officially be opening its Wimbledon location at midday. In order to celebrate, this fast-casual Mexican restaurant will be giving away 1,000 burritos. Let me say that one more time: 1,000 FREE BURRITOS. [continue reading]
Whisky Tasting at Dukes Hotel
Like anyone with Irish ancestry, I enjoy whisky. Now, whether I could tease out notes of malted bread or sweet dates from a glass of the stuff is another matter. This changed after my induction to whisky at Dukes Hotel on the 28th. [continue reading]
The Chocolate Festival!
Brownies, cookies and truffles, oh my! If you want to get in some serious chocolate action in time for Easter then head down to London’s South Bank this weekend for the bi-annual Chocolate Festival, now in its fourth year. It’s a cornucopia of tastings, cookery demonstrations and enough chocolate-related treats to keep you going till Christmas. [continue reading]
Butler’s Wharf Chop House Goes English Country Garden
As summer approaches, some Londoners yearn to escape to the countryside. However, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the 2012 Olympics are too much of a draw to leave. Luckily, Butler’s Wharf Chop House has brought the countryside to London. The restaurant, which overlooks the Thames in the shadow of Tower Bridge, is gearing up for summer with an English Country Garden and a season of traditionally English celebrations. [continue reading]
Welcome Cinnamon Soho
In India’s backstreet hip hangouts there’s a popular saying of ‘Joho’, which loosely translates as ‘whatever happens’. In the backstreets of Soho lies a new restaurant that seems to be following this ethos; introducing Cinnamon Soho, the younger, sleeker and all round sexier version of sister restaurant The Cinnamon Club. It is more laid back, more adventurous and doesn’t give an elephant crap which rules it breaks. The third restaurant from Vivek Singh and located on Kingly Street at the former site of the Red Bar, Cinnamon Soho will offer an all-day menu that combines modern Indian fare with an unexpected nod to British favourites. [continue reading]
Donburi Savvy Lunch Menu Launches at Aqua Kyoto
Who says that lunch breaks have to be dull? Yes, you may only get an hour to run out for a quick bite and a few moments of relaxation, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice good food. Aqua Kyoto, the contemporary Japanese restaurant at the top of the former Dickins & Jones department store on Regent Street, has asked the same question, and Head Chef Jordan Sclare has come up with a solution. For only £12.50, hungry Londoners will now be able to break away from their typical humdrum lunch with Aqua Kyoto’s new three course set menu. This menu offers five different ‘Donburi bowls’ to choose from. Chef Sclare plans to change each Donburi bowl bi-monthly, in order to ensure variety. Possible options include salmon sashimi with Ikura Donburi, or udon noodle soup with braised pork or tempura prawns. Regardless of the options, each dish is guaranteed … [continue reading]
The Yacht London’s Diamond Jubilee Hell of a Package
Of course, sipping on a slushie whilst soaking up the sun is a nice enough way to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee this year, but if you have the odd 700 quid to spare, and fancy doing something really special why not board The Yacht London on the 3rd of June? A perfect opportunity to satisfy that itch of wanting to be ever so slightly over the top! [continue reading]
New ME Hotel to Host Masterchef-esque Comp
ME London, a new five star, design-led hotel will be opening in July in Central London’s historic BBC Marconi building. This contemporary hotel has been designed by Foster + Partners, who are known for their work on the Stansted Airport, the Reichstag dome in Berlin, and London’s City Hall. [continue reading]
Afternoon Tea at the Royal Horseguards Hotel
With the country gearing up for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, it’s the perfect excuse to celebrate all things British, and we can think of no better way than to have a very British afternoon tea, held in Guoman’s Five-Star Royal Horseguards hotel amongst the intimate outdoor terrace with spectacular views of the iconic river Thames and the London Eye. [continue reading]
Shake Up Your Day!
Now, you all know we love our alcohol, but at Blue Tomato, there’s nothing we like more in the mornings than a nice, cold milkshake – preferably Strawberry, and YAZOO is our choice of shake. [continue reading]
Shopping Made Cheesy.
Pilgrims Choice, a company that’s all about the cheese, has just made picking the party and picnic favourite easier. We always love it when companies respond to customer feedback, which is exactly what people at the ‘Choosiest Cheese Company’ did. The product’s snazzy new look provides shoppers with handy tips and recipe suggestions. [continue reading]
Find a Golden Ticket at The Capital this Easter!
In my opinion, Easter is best celebrated with a succulent feast and Easter eggs. Enterprising 5 star boutique hotel, The Capital, will combine the two this April for a special treat. (Yay!) [continue reading]
Check In and Choc Out at The Cavendish!
If we were given the challenge of being locked in a room and made to eat our way out of it – we reckon we could probably give it a pretty good go. And if the room was made of chocolate? We’d probably take our sweet time. This Easter, The Cavendish London is giving two lucky guests the chance choc-in and try. [continue reading]
Because we love Food, but we also love Football…
The 2012 UEFA European Football Championship is a grand affair – one to be watched and enjoyed with more than just a beer and the telly. No, you may not be able to make it to Poland and Ukraine, but fear not. Chelsea Football Club is offering the opportunity to witness sporting magic at its special screenings in June. Meet at Stamford Bridge for pre match drinks in the iconic stands then watch football live on immense screens in your own private suite. Now that beats your living room, doesn’t it? [continue reading]
Fancy a Wine Festival?
Kick start the Summer with a lovely glass of wine – or ten – at THE “Fête le Vin” (Bordeaux Wine Festival). This event, open to the general public, attracted over 500,000 visitors to the heart of this UNESCO World Heritage site in 2010 and this year it will take place from Thursday 28th June to Sunday 1st July 2012 on the quays of Bordeaux in south west France. 2012 will be the 8th festival, which has considerably expanded since it was created by the Mayor of Bordeaux, Alain Juppé. [continue reading]
Drink & Dine On The River – You Can Bank On It
One of the sad truths about waterfront restaurants/drinking dens is that, in our experience here at Tomato Towers, the food isn’t always on par with the view. So, on a balmy Friday evening when Blue Tomato invited 5 lucky readers out on the tiles, thank the Lord for Northbank Restaurant. This fabulous Restaurant and Bar sidesteps this problem with stellar Modern British cuisine that’ll have you (and us) coming back for more. It sits proudly by the Millennium Bridge and offers diners a stunning look at the Tate Modern. And with this delicious weather we’ve been having treat yourself to a glass of wine by the Thames. Or, dine inside; the elegant décor features dark banquettes, unique light bulb chandeliers, and translucent wine-coloured curtains. Experienced head chef Peter Woods joined Christian Butler to lead the Northbank team in 2007. During his 16-year career, the food master has worked at The … [continue reading]
Nespresso Spring Showcase at Kettner’s
At the age of 26 I discovered I liked coffee. It was a surprise because I’d always stayed away from it, and after a while I grew to enjoy the look on people’s faces when I would ask for a glass of milk instead (I don’t drink tea. It’s just gross, OK?). Drinking coffee is a cultural thing; you drink it in the workplace, to get over horrific hangovers, and even as an offering on a first date (I never trusted anyone who suggested we “go for coffee”, preferring the offering of “a drink”; this may or may not have been the reason why I never got very far in my relationships…). [continue reading]
Chris Bell to Feature in ‘Great British Menu’ Olympic Special
Fans of food television rejoice – Great British Menu will return to BBC 2 for its seventh and final season on 9th April. The show features top chefs from around the UK competing for the chance to design a menu for a prestigious, end of series event. Though food doesn’t normally take centre stage in the Olympics, it will on Great British Menu. [continue reading]
Platter
Move over Nigella Lawson; see you later Sophie Dahl; and say hello to the general public. Far too long has the culinary world been dominated by celebrity chefs, and with the launch of the new phone app Platter, every-day cooks like yourselves will have the chance to steal the spotlight. [continue reading]
Join Michel Roux Jr for a Gourmet Dinner!
Roux at Parliament Square is surely one of the most stunning, luxurious restaurants in London, and it’s got a menu to match. Alfred Waterhouse, architect of the Natural History Museum, designed the Westminster building. The restaurant’s décor combines period features with contemporary design and furniture. Celebrated, Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux Jr is the force behind Roux at Parliament Square, and now patrons can dine with the man himself. [continue reading]
Wine Tasting at The Blacksmith and The Toffeemaker
English wines have been going through something of a renaissance period recently, with the old image of Granddad’s home brewed nettle wine being obliterated by the new kids on the block such as Ridgeview and Nyetimber, which have been beating the likes of Dom Perignon in blind tastings. But can they live up to the high price tags that often accompany them? Blue Tomato headed down to The Blacksmith and The Toffeemaker to taste an array of these homegrown nectars. [continue reading]
St. George’s Day at Boyd’s Brasserie
Why is it that St. Patrick gets all of the glory? Okay, so he may have banished all snakes from Ireland, but that doesn’t mean he can snag all the attention away from every other saint. Think about it; Saint George, the patron saint of England, is pretty groovy himself. Forget about those pesky little snakes in Ireland, Georgie boy slayed a dragon! [continue reading]
Toast St. George at The Lamb Tavern
How does a free pint of beer sound? Now that I’ve got your attention, consider spending this St. George’s Day at the Lamb Tavern, where celebrations will be lively and ale will be flowing. The historic 14th century Lamb Tavern sits in Leadenhall Market in the City of London. The perfect spot for after work drinks or private parties, the pub will be festooned in red and white on Monday 23rd April. [continue reading]
Chef Season at Benares Bar
Ahh Mayfair, you’re never short of high quality fine dining establishments in this praiseworthy postcode and one venue that always reels us in is the stylish Benares Bar. [continue reading]
Monkey Shoulder Easter Egg Hunt!
Remember the good ol’ days, when Easter was like a second Christmas? When the Easter Bunny was the springtime Santa Claus, bringing you a basket full of chocolates and treats in the middle of the night, and hiding colourful eggs full of sweets for you to find the next day? It was a time where you could run around in the dirt searching for said eggs, get your Sunday best filthy, and not get into any trouble for it. It truly was a wonderful day; but, unfortunately, those are just some more memories that have to be filed away under “Childhood”. They are experiences that are meant for children, not grown adults…or are they? [continue reading]
Great Cake Places
For those of us who know that there are four square meals in a day, the pursuit and appreciation of dessert is sacrosanct. Chocolate cravings lead to expensive truffles at a nearby patisserie and dinner is never finished without something sweet. Recently, London has come to rival Paris in dessert with a boom in artisan bakeries, cafes, posh patisseries, and elegant spots for afternoon tea. There’s also the fact that “cupcakery” is now an actual term. [continue reading]
Easter at Sanderson and St Martins Lane
As London dips its toes into springtime, each sunny day seems full of promise. Flowers bloom, giant Easter eggs abound, and children play everywhere. To keep the whole family entertained this Easter look no further than Sanderson and St Martins Lane. [continue reading]
It’s MY Nozomi!
Multi-award winning Japanese restaurant Nozomi will be offering what no one thought was possible from Easter 2012: the best food and drink hand-delivered straight to your door. See? You can do fine dining from the comfort of your own couch! [continue reading]
Felicity’s Buns!
Not every bakery has brought out their hot cross buns yet – but here’s a very unscientific round up of five of London’s finest. I always think they’re best on the day they’re made, but if you must keep them, toast lightly with a heap of butter. Or like me, cream cheese and honey. Believe me, it works. [continue reading]
Annual Sani Gourmet Festival 2012
We all like a Greek salad but why not experience authentic Greek cuisine – some that you didn’t even know existed, in Greece itself. It’s one of the world leaders in fresh delicious gastronomy, well of course! [continue reading]
The Launch of Umami
Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Singapore – or, as they’re more commonly referred to, Southeast Asia. In the western world, these countries are thought to be so similar that they become grouped together into one large mass. Being grouped along with them is their cuisine. Countless “Southeast Asian fusion” restaurants have popped up over the last decade, giving restaurant-goers the impression that these different cuisines are one in the same. If it weren’t for these fusion joints, consumers would realise that there is, in fact, a distinct difference between each of these countries’ cuisines; and no matter how subtle those differences may be, they exist and should be recognised. [continue reading]
Sunday Lunch with Riverford
Based on the blooming flowers, chirping birds, and noticeably louder children, it is safe to say that Spring is finally here. Not only does that mean warmer weather, but also tastier, more flavourful food, ready and waiting for you to eat it. [continue reading]
Two New Restaurants to Open at Harrods
The illustrious Harrods Food Hall will now be serving up authentic Southeast Asian and Thai cuisine in its two new restaurants opening next month. Yay! (We love Harrods.) The exciting new menus will, of course, be teamed with interiors that are designed to intensify restaurant experience and reflect the unique style of the food, pairing polished and modern with a traditional twist. Would we expect anything less? [continue reading]
A Taste of Ireland at RIBA
Top of the morning to ya! Now, unless you’ve been living under a (sham) rock all your life, you must know that it is St Patrick’s Day on the 17th of March. This Paddy’s day you can experience a tasteful Irish gourmet feast which isn’t limited to just a pint of green beer or Guinness and boring boiled potatoes. Ditch the simple Irish pub and hilarious oversized leprechaun head wear to celebrate the all things green and Irish with a sophisticated meal at the stunning art deco Restaurant RIBA, nestled away in the grand Florence Hall of 66 Portland Place. [continue reading]
An Easter Wonderland at The Rib Room!
To all parents – this a child friendly post…for a change. Your kids’ll be grinning like the Cheshire Cat. [continue reading]
For the Mother of all Days…
Mother’s day is fast approaching and I don’t know about you but I want to combine the two important “f’s” in life – family and food, by spoiling Mother dearest with a show stopping dining experience which admittedly I can benefit from too! What? [continue reading]
Fortnum & Mason Relaunch The St James’s Restaurant
The Queen’s upcoming Diamond Jubilee is bringing all sorts of excitement to London. While you may not be celebrating your 60 years on the throne, there’s plenty of ways to take part in the festivities. Beloved Piccadilly store Fortnum & Mason has refurbished The St James’s Restaurant on its 4th floor for the Jubilee. It will re-launch this April. Now you can take your tea, be it an exotic or classic blend, in Georgian style tearooms designed by David Collins Studio. The opening will unveil three distinct sections of the restaurant. [continue reading]
The Launch of The Jugged Hare
On 8th March, the crowds poured into 49 Chiswell Street, new home of The Jugged Hare. The launch celebrated the self proclaimed “gastro pub” in the City with flowing champagne, silver trays of canapés, and a few pigs rotating on fiery spits. Upon entering the restaurant, we were struck by an atmosphere of rugged elegance. A deer head mounts one wall, while prints of hares abound. Large, red-brown banquettes and soft lighting brings class to the main dining area. An open kitchen with an eight-spit rotisserie and charcoal grill enliven the eating experience. [continue reading]
Goan Regional Menu at Namaaste Kitchen
With the proliferation of gap years becoming de rigueur amongst not only indecisive students but also glory-seeking middle managers throwing caution and job security to the wind to act out their very own Di Caprio-esque ‘The Beach’ adventures, untouched corners of the world are becoming few and far between. This has led to a desperation in seeking out countries that are less affected by western culture, with the Mecca being, well, India. [continue reading]
Pip’s Dish and The Islington Barn
Making a career out of your life’s greatest passion is a hard thing to do. Even harder though, is turning that career into an ongoing good deed. Not many people can do it, but some have managed to. One such person has been right under our noses for years now, and with his most recent project, it is about time he receives a bit of recognition. [continue reading]
The Hunt is On at Roast
If the words ‘treasure hunt’ still excite the kid in you, this event is for you. Marcus Verberne, recently appointed Head Cook at Borough Market-based Roast, wants you to hunt for your lunch. He has crafted a monthly treasure hunt that finishes with a delicious feast. [continue reading]
Holy Brunch!
Hallelujah, raise your hands and praise the lord. Finally something different to do on Mother’s Day. Forget about the flowers, cards and breakfast in bed clichés. If you really want to make a mark and maybe bring on a few tears (of joy of course) then bring your number one lady to Altitude 360 at the Millbank tower on the 18th of March for a brunch like no other. [continue reading]
Yakima Red – Limited Edition Beer from Meantime Brewery
I’ve never been to Greenwich. Not because I lack the curiosity and culture of a tourist, and not because of any other discernible reason other than it always looked a bit far away on a map. The tube map is deceptive. Take for example the journey from Leicester Square to Covent Garden. Your common or garden tourist will take the tube (and then hopefully take the steps when they see the melee for the lifts. It’s always good practice here, no matter how crowded, to wait at the top of the stairs for the cocksure tourist to observe the look of defeat and disbelief on their face, almost as if they have just trekked through an ice field in the South Pole with a 500 kilo sledge) whereas we all know it’s no further than the walk you do from your sofa to your fridge. I’m glad that tourist guides … [continue reading]
Simply Beef and Lamb
Springtime is (almost) here! The birds are chirping (outside my window at 6 am), flowers are sprouting (or are those weeds?), and the many layers of clothing worn to tough out this rough winter are slowly being stripped away. In order to celebrate the coming of this glorious season, why not whip up some picnic appropriate or roof-top dinner dishes? [continue reading]
British Pie Week!
Who ate all the pies? You ate all the pies! Well at least you should be eating all the pies this week. Forget the calorie counting and any failed attempt at a diet – it’s British Pie Week! [continue reading]
Shopping Made Easy
Online shopping can cause excessive, mindless spending – or it can save you tons. MySupermarket.co.uk, an online shopping retailer and price comparison site, prefers to do the latter. The website allows users to choose from ‘Groceries’, ‘Health & Beauty’, or ‘Wines’ then compare product prices at a range of retailers like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Boots (while remaining 100% independent). It’s a straightforward, easy way to save cash. We like it. But this we like this more… [continue reading]
50 Mile Menu at The Cookbook Cafe
Cookbook Café at the Intercontinental London Park Lane is launching a ’50 Mile Menu’, which features seasonable and sustainable British ingredients sourced within a 50-mile radius of the hotel. Whether eating local was one of your New Year’s resolutions or not, you’ll delight in this array of delicious English dishes. [continue reading]
WIN tickets to The Real Wine Fair 2012
The inaugural Real Wine Fair will take place in Holborn, London WC1 on Sunday 20thMay between 10.00am and 6.00pm, giving wine and food lovers the opportunity to meet winemakers and taste over 600 organically or biodynamically produced wines. Tickets are now on sale for £20 per ticket at www.therealwinefair.com. [continue reading]
Quilon to Reveal New Renovation and Bar
Quilon, a Westminster restaurant specialising in southwest coastal Indian cuisine will unveil its highly anticipated refurbishment mid-March. This establishment has retained the Holy Grail of gastronomy awards – the Michelin Star – for five years running. It’s also the only South Indian restaurant ever to win the honour. That’s just one clue that a meal here should not be passed up! [continue reading]
Yo! Happy 15th Birthday!
Wasaaabi? Don’t you dare ig-nori me. Let me see that sushi roll! Is that tempura in your belly, or are you just happy sashimi? (credit: Jim Carrey) Okay, okay; I’m finished with the sushi puns, but I just couldn’t help myself, especially after spending an evening at Yo! Sushi to help them celebrate their 15th birthday. [continue reading]
Dinner, Drinks and a Showing at the IMAX
We at Blue Tomato love the cinema – almost as much as we love a good drink, which is why it makes us very happy to announce that the Odeon IMAX Swiss Cottage has opened Ambar – a premier bar and drink lounge. [continue reading]
The Cora Pearl Experience
The days of Courtesans are long over but at the Grosvenor they appear to live on. Not that we’re saying the Grosvenor by any means offers illicit services, but to celebrate the hotel’s 150th birthday they have created a rather romantic suite named after the 19th Century courtesan, Miss Cora Pearl. [continue reading]
Get Excited About Summer with Waitrose
Last week I had the opportunity to take a sneaky peak at what new and exciting products are set to hit the shelves of Waitrose stores everywhere this spring and summer. I warn you now, as a real foodie and domestic goddess wannabe (this means, I buy fancy kitcheny things and try my best) this article is going to be extremely gushy, and will end with me declaring my love for Waitrose. [continue reading]
A Taste of Sri Lanka in London
Spicy, sweet, bold and colourful; there are few other words that can describe Sri Lankan food as accurately as these. With staples like coconut milk, curry, pickles, chillies, and a wide variety of meats and vegetables, it is truly one of the most vibrant cuisines in the world. [continue reading]
Saintly Celebrations at the Rib Room
Yes, there are other ways to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day than with a pint of Guinness at the local pub (though that’s a perfectly worthy choice). The Rib Room Bar & Restaurant will show you the way with two saintly celebrations: St. Patrick’s Day and St. George’s Day. Feast on traditional Irish and English cuisine prepared with a modern, gourmet twist with these custom created four-course tasting menus. [continue reading]
Tea Time at Garfunkel’s
The tradition of afternoon tea originated the 1840s. The privileged classes accompanied the age-old beverage with sandwiches, scones, and pastries. Now, you don’t need fine china or butlers to enjoy the same. Pay your respects to ritual and take your tea at Garfunkel’s, which strongly believes that ‘tea revives you.’ [continue reading]
Mutton Dressed As….Mutton
How long does a lamb have before it becomes mutton? What exactly is mutton, and who the hell eats it?! Well, as per usual, we are full of useful information. Mutton is meat from a sheep that is older than two years (unlike lamb, which is meat from a sheep under 12 months old), and it is eaten by people all over the world, including the Prince of Wales –who knew? This type of meat has been popular for hundreds of years, but has experienced a downfall in demand in recent decades. However, due to Prince Charles’ love for the dish, he started the Mutton Renaissance campaign in 2004 to help revive the mutton industry. As a part of this campaign, The Mutton Renaissance Club was started, giving people a chance to learn more about mutton by connecting them with producers, processors, and retailers of the meat. (Bear with us, there … [continue reading]
23 Grosvenor Gardens Launches
London has a penchant for converting old buildings into the trendiest new bars and restaurants, be it a horse hospital or a library – and now we can add just launched 23 Grosvenor Gardens Wine Bar in Victoria to the list. The venue, formerly a bank a decade ago, was an old style coffee shop before it caught the eye of 24-year-old London-based entrepreneur Adrian Dulgher. With the help of his old man who organised the renovation, Dulgher has taken advantage of the old underground vaults and created shadowy, effortlessly chic spaces, each vault decorated according to a theme: library, casino, and boardroom. The brick walls, wood floors, and black wicker furniture work together to create a truly unique and cool bar. Equally cool, in the basement is a garden room. [continue reading]
All Day Eating and Drinking at Karpo
There truly is nothing better than an all-day diner, except, possibly, an all-day diner with a gourmet twist. Located in central London, across the street from King’s Cross Station, you’ll find exactly that in a restaurant called Karpo. [continue reading]
Fairtrade Fortnight at The People’s Supermarket
If you’d like to find a way to grocery shop more responsibly, look no further. The People’s Supermarket is the place to go. It’s run by volunteers who want to provide food that is more socially and environmentally beneficial. Stop by from Monday 27thFebruary to Sunday 11th March to participate in a variety of events for Fairtrade Fortnight. [continue reading]
Going Against the Grain
Think back to all of the meals you have eaten in gourmet restaurants throughout your life. How many times did you order a simple glass of wine when all you really wanted was a tall glass of exceptionally great beer? Was it because you didn’t know what type of beer to pair with your fancy food? If your answer is ‘yes’, then do we have an event for you. [continue reading]
Pick of the Brunch
The terms ‘party’ and ‘brunch’ aren’t often paired together. However with karaoke, live music acts, and unlimited prosecco and bellinis, Bunga Bunga seems to have grasped the concept. A self-proclaimed ‘Englishman’s Italian, Bar, Pizzeria, and Karaoke,’ Bunga Bunga playfully marries kitsch and authentic Italian cuisine. From the stairwell covered in a replica of the Sistine Chapel to the comically named pizzas, the restaurant has a lively sense of humour and a mouth-watering menu. Launched last autumn by Duncan Stirling and Charlie Gilkes, Bunga Bunga’s name derives from a racy Italian joke (which I won’t spill here). Now, the restaurant’s sense of fun extends to Saturday afternoon. [continue reading]
Go for a Leek
St David’s Day (1st March) fittingly falls right when Wales’ symbolic vegetable, the leek, is at its best. Leek season is from November through to April, so when many other native vegetables won’t grow in our chilly British winter climate, the leek is as happy as a scoop of ice cream on a wafer. [continue reading]
Indian Restaurants Celebrate the Festival of Colours
What better to combat the last dreary slog of winter than Holi, the Indian festival of colours? Hindus around the world celebrate this religious holiday marking the beginning of spring on 8th and 9th of March, traditionally by hurling brightly coloured powder at each other. So if you can’t jet off to India, enjoy a meal out at Dishoom, The Cinnamon Club, or Cinnamon Kitchen. All three restaurants are celebrating this gleeful holiday in their own way. [continue reading]
Oz Clarke Sets Sail with Vinopolis and Celebrity Cruises
When asked to ‘save the date’ to join Dan Hanrahan of Celebrity Cruises and Lucy Haines from Vinopolis for dinner and fine wine, I was completely sold without really knowing what it was all about. Who would pass up the opportunity of an evening to dine at fantastic wine destination Vinopolis, and mingle with the likes of the President of Celebrity Cruises (I’d Googled him: tall, handsome, American – great) whilst drinking the finest of wines? Not I. And actually, it was quite a spectacular evening, during which I became fully immersed in wine, and in the excitement shared by everyone over the beginning of what is set to be a great partnership. [continue reading]
Mixing It With the Best at Flute Bar
There’s always one at a party who reckons he’s a proper cocktaileer, whipping up god-awful margaritas and smashing glasses all over the place. Fancy showing them how it’s really done by learning how to mix, muddle, shake, throw, pour, spin (and lots of other nifty things) like the best of them? Well then head down to the fantastic new Flûte Bar & Lounge in the heart of London’s West End, where Head Barman Rafal Szustorowski will be sharing the secrets behind three of their most popular signature cocktails and showing you the ropes. [continue reading]
It’s All Greek at The Capital!
Whilst on holiday, after an evening meal, we’ve often sat back, red faced and wonderfully full, wishing, of all the things we could take back as a souvenir, it could be the chef responsible for the remarkable food we’ve consumed. Well! Luckily for us, David Levin had the same wish, and be it down to the almighty Greek Gods, or an offer made not to be refused, it came true. [continue reading]
Duvel – A Glass Act
We find ourselves invited to a plethora of events in London, everything from new bar launches, wine tastings, new menus and even the launch of a new urinal concept (yep, we know…unusual!) but tonight, it’s an event with a beer, a vodka and London Fashion week. I’m comfortable with the beer and vodka, it’s what I do. I would like to think that I’ve developed the correct etiquette for chatting to my peers, gleaming bits of information in order to scribe a good review of the evening and associated product for you our dear readers, but fashion…what is the etiquette here? I conjure up images of cads, fashionistas, beautiful people and movers and shakers in the bemusing world of fashion and design. [continue reading]
Cantina del Ponte: All for a Good Cause
It’s not often that a topless waiter pours Blue Tomato a glass of Prosecco on a Wednesday evening (that’s usually Thirsty Thursdays in our office), but as it was for charity we thought that we’d acquiesce to a small drop at Cantina Del Ponte, a fabulous Italian restaurant located on Shad Thames. [continue reading]
Check Out Heston’s Buns!
I’m sure it comes as no surprise as we tell you that Heston’s been at it again. Not quite the ‘Hidden Orange Christmas Pudding’ he did last year that ended up being the most sought after pudding (possibly EVER), but still just as delish, Heston has created his own take on the iconic Easter Hot Cross Bun. [continue reading]
Thai Square Restaurants – Worth a Visit!
Arguably one of the world’s greatest cuisines, Thai food is available in restaurants on almost every street in London, and Premier UK restaurant group, Thai Square are probably responsible for half of them. Ok, we may be exaggerating slightly, but having now opened eleven (yes, eleven) London-based restaurants and six restaurants outside London, altogether offering a selection of more than 1,000 authentic dishes, you can see why we’d be so presumptuous. [continue reading]
Travel East Asia in Fitzrovia
Ever been to East Asia and wandered the street-food markets, sampling the exotic foreign flavours and gorging on rich, authentic foods? Nor have we. And now we don’t even have to. The newly opened East Street, situated in Fitzrovia, offers you the chance to travel across East Asia by plate, at pocket-friendly prices. [continue reading]
