Taste Newslettre – Septembre 2022
Taste, toutes les nouveautés de la scène gastronomique britannique (contenu en anglais).
From fine-dining and eclectic interiors to afternoon tea with a twist, this autumn promises to bring dining experiences packed with zest to Britain’s foodie scene. So, whether it’s tucking into international fiery flavours, tasting the spices of the Middle East, or getting the inside scoop on exclusive residencies, here’s the latest openings where visitors can get their food fix across Britain.
Just opened…
Mama Shelter Shoreditch, London
Opened August 2022
Look beyond the quirky Mama Shelter hotel for a taste of creativity and culinary adventure at Mama restaurant. Located in the heart of Shoreditch, the on-site eatery and garden bar reflects the playful nature of the hotel, from bright artsy décor to eclectic design and a nod to inclusivity and seasonal flavours. With a menu curated by head chef James Green, there’s a real focus of bringing Mama’s iconic international venues to life through their tastes, drawing on inspiration from Mama Shelter locations in Paris, Rome, Luxembourg and beyond. Guests can try the California Rainbow Salad, or stick to local favourites of Mama’s Fish and Chips, served up Shoreditch style. Whether it’s alfresco signature cocktails, delicious vibrant dining, late night live music or even karaoke, Mama Shelter is sure to bring the party.
The Tent (at the end of the universe), London
Opened August 2022
Once an exclusive, members-only restaurant, The Tent opened its doors to the public this August. Filipino-born chef John Javier brings culinary knowledge and expertise from previous ventures in a London supperclub, Noma and Momofuku Seiobo. Normally hailed for his take on Chinese cuisine, The Tent offers something different – Javier’s take on modern Middle Eastern gastronomy. In the 34-cover room, guests can expect the sounds of a DJ set under low lighting which creates a striking lunar ambience. The weekly changing menu features dishes including the likes of lime infused hummus, Carabineros prawns with Baharat spices, and Secreto schnitzel, providing a unique twist to the popular Israeli dish.
The Azalea, Glenapp Castle, Scotland
Opened September 2022
Among the greenery and florals of Glenapp Castle’s unique Walled Garden, step into a paradise of horticulture and cuisine at The Azalea. This concept restaurant brings home-grown flavours to diner’s dishes, as they can enjoy curry plants and rhubarb that have all sprouted up from the ground around them. Pure decadence awaits with a lavish afternoon tea, offered in five exclusive spaces, from The Pond Room where guests can spot goldfish, to the spectrum of light within The Atrium. While in the warming Bothy, guests can tuck into a menu from executive chef Joe Gould and his team. Serving up fresh local produce, there’s artichoke laced with fiery wasabi and ginger infused pork. For an added dose of nature, look up to the starry skies through the glass ceiling for an intimate dining experience.
For a limited time…
Retan at Louie Louie, Kennington, London
3-month residency starts from September
Dynamic duo sommelier and chef team Cameron Dewar and Josh Dallaway are popping-up their roaming supperclub, Retan, in London Kennington’s Louie Louie. Having already taken to kitchens across the likes of Peckham Cellars, The Great Gun Social and Legare, they’re set to bring the flavour to Kennington until the end of 2022. Cooking up French inspired plates, the pop-up brings Parisian vibes to the nation’s capital, with guests able to enjoy River Teign Oysters and aged beef tartare served up with a salty seaweed relish. For a bite to eat that’s good for the budget, visitors can look to their Hot Pot menu on a Tuesday for the choice of affordable hearty dishes.
G & Afternoon Tea, The Doyle Collection, Bristol
Launched in August 2022, and running to end of the year
Diners can leave their perceptions of afternoon tea at the door of The Bristol Hotel, from The Doyle Collection, as they dip into a world of local producers and crafters with a G & Afternoon Tea. Set looking out onto the city’s stunning Harbourside, guests can expect a menu of classic favourites including finger sandwiches, fruity scones and handmade cakes, alongside a uniquely curated tea-inspired cocktail menu in partnership with Bristol Dry Gin. For those not fancying a tipple, the food can be complemented with tea blends from local tea company, The Bird and Blend Tea Co.
Coming soon…
Moët and Chandon Champagne Tower Experience, London
Opening October 2022
Look no further than Europe’s largest stand-alone Moët and Chandon bar in Harrods for pure decadence with an experience that adds that extra pop. Guests can marvel at a spectacular champagne waterfall that sees the sparkling liquid pour from a Moët and Chandon Brut Imperial magnum. Flowing over up to six glasses, this is the perfect experience to book with friends and family. Bites to eat and sharable foodie selections are also available. The destination bar opens Monday to Saturday from midday until 9pm, and from midday until 6pm on Sundays.
Elis, London
Opening October 2022
From acclaimed two Michelin-starred chef, Rafael Cagali, comes his newest venture, and second restaurant, Elis. Paying homage to his Brazilian heritage and late mother, Elis takes its name from Rafael’s mother’s own restaurant in Sao Paulo, and draws on cuisine influences from South America. With a pick of diverse plates, diners can expect Bolinho de bacalhau (cod), crab tagliolini verde and baby monkfish lashed with a black tucupi glaze. As an accompaniment, the wine list has been carefully curated by Keeling Andrew & Co., and highlights between 10-12 bottles at a time. The restaurant will offer 30 covers, with an intimate yet dynamic feel. Elis joins Rafael’s two Michelin-starred restaurant, Da Terra, and can be found in Bethnal Green’s Town Hall Hotel, London.
Cycene, London
Opening October 2022
Set to open its doors this October, Cycene, which means kitchen in Old English, comes as the next venture for duo James and Christie Brown. As the founders of Blue Mountain School, Cycene will open in its cultural space, spanning over two floors which includes a ground floor bar for pre-meal snacks, before guests make their way to the dining room to continue a 10-course dining experience. Head chef Theo Clench serves up a menu of mackerel with plum, slow cooked turbo, indulgent caviar and more. The venture will sit alongside pre-existing exhibition spaces and art installations in the renovated townhouse – including artist Jared Ginsburg’s upcoming All my love show which begins in October.
Eve, Virgin Hotels Edinburgh, Scotland
Opening October 2022
For a place that brings the party, Edinburgh’s Eve in the Virgin Hotel really packs a punch. Offering an expansive menu with the likes of veggie fritters, meaty burgers filled with piquillo peppers and smashed avocado, and BBQ brisket mac ‘n’ cheese, the menu seeks to meet a range of tastes. Guests can expect bright artwork, renowned DJs, including local favourites, and a packed calendar of themed events – offering all that is needed for a day, night or evening full of food, beverages and disco fever.