_{Solaya by Kenny Atkinson}

Located on the 25^th floor of the glamorous hotel, Solaya is helmed by Michelin-starred chef Kenny Atkinson, who has drawn upon his exceptional culinary experience to curate an exciting menu. Standout dishes include the tuna carpaccio, the rich bouillabaisse with lobster, the scallop crudo with heritage tomatoes, and the oven-roasted sole.

Alongside the food offerings, Solaya’s bar serves up handcrafted cocktails that complement the seasonal menu. From zesty orange spritzes to luxurious wines, the Solaya bar team will ensure that every sip feels as transportive as the cuisine itself.

_{Solaya by Kenny Atkinson}

As his first solo restaurant in London, Atkinson, alongside design company Digital Space, has crafted a décor that matches the elevated level of the cuisine. Think: sweeping 360 views of East London, two open-air balconies, plush blue furnishings, and intimate table arrangements.

Speaking about the new restaurant, Atkinson said: “Solaya is an exciting project for me as my first solo venture in London and a chance to bring something truly special to the city. I’ve always been drawn to the warmth and soul of Mediterranean cooking, and Solaya is about capturing that feeling – sunshine on a plate, bold flavours, and food that brings people together.”

_{Solaya by Kenny Atkinson}

Having just opened on 12 September 2025, Solaya marks a vibrant new chapter in London’s culinary landscape, one where sunshine-filled flavours meet skyline views.

by Sophie Richardson

For more information and to book, please visit here.

The post Solaya by Kenny Atkinson Debuts at art’otel London Hoxton first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

_{The Peninsula London – Brooklands by Claude Bosi restaurant}

The collaborating chef, Norbert Niederkofler, is coming back to one of the cities he first worked in before returning to South Tyrol and winning world-wide fame for his menu at St. Hubertus. That restaurant, using ingredients only produced in the Dolomites, brought him a coveted third star from Michelin, making the menu he will create with Claude Bosi something eagerly anticipated.

_{Chef Claude Bosi}

Guests will start the evening with Deutz Champagne and canapés, sitting at tables appointed for two and four diners, before the two chefs will present their courses in alternate order. Wine pairings, devised by Melody Wong, The Peninsula London’s Director of Wine, will complement the unique menu and add to what promises to be a highly memorable experience in a setting with its own exceptional character.

Brooklands by Claude Bosi, taking its name from the famous Surrey racetrack that launched British racing when it opened in 1907, celebrates aviation as well as motorsports (a scale model of Concorde hangs from the ceiling) and its floor-to-ceiling windows overlook Belgravia and Hyde Park. The view is very different to the one Norbert Niederkofler grew up with in the heart of the Dolomites before leaving (‘I was tired of looking at mountains all the time’) to become a chef so that he could travel the world.

_{Chef Norbert Niederkolfer ©markusranalter}

The Four-Hands Dinner Series continues on the 11^th November with Swiss-born maestro of Alpine cuisine, Sven Wassmer, and events for 2026 will be announced…

by Sean Sheehan

Dinner sittings are from 18.00-21.30 and tickets, £205 per person, are bookable at this reservation link.

The post A Thrilling Four-Hands Dinner with Claude and Co at The Peninsula London first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

_{AngloThai | Photograph: Ben Broomfield}

The quietly striking space on Seymour Place is home to food rooted in Thai culinary tradition, yet refracted through a distinctly British lens. Influenced by John’s mother, a gifted home cook who went to great lengths to source specialist ingredients that reflected her family’s tastes, the menu is built on traditional Thai methods: charcoal grilling, coconut smoking, and the searing intensity of wok-hei. These techniques paired with the best seasonal produce from across the British Isles, create dishes that are both deeply familiar and subtly unexpected.

_{John Chantarasak and Desiree Chantarasak | Photograph: Ben Broomfield}

Settling in by the window, I find myself admiring the delicately curated space — warm with soft lighting, touches of emerald greenery, and bespoke art and contemporary crafts from Thai artists whom John and Desiree personally meet on their travels to Chiang Mai.

Seated on furniture handmade from chamchuri wood, I can feel the buzzy atmosphere; from the faces in the crowd, it’s clear everyone is enjoying themselves, dish after dish, and I can’t wait to get started.

The tasting menu is a progression of bright, bold, and deeply aromatic flavours, but we begin off menu with a velvet crab, fish bone and eel tom yum-style broth, so fragrant it works perfectly as an appetite ignition.

_{Kohlrabi, Candied Beetroot & Duchess Rapeseed from AngloThai Tasting Menu | Photograph: Ben Broomfield}

_{Wines ‘Rufus’ and ‘Aubretia’}

Accompanying my starters is a glass of ‘Aubretia’, an aromatic white wine with tropical notes, and recommended with main courses is the light-bodied red ‘Rufus’, easy choices after discovering they are affectionately named after Desiree and John’s two children.

A complex trio of amuse-bouche follows, presented on thoughtfully crafted plates by Matt Jones Ceramics. Starting with Kohlrabi, Candied Beetroot & Duchess Rapeseed as instructed, then the Line Caught Mackerel on top of Rhubarb & Horseradish encased in a crispy tartlet case – a medley of flavours and textures. Next is the Fosse Meadows Chicken, covered in a rich Coconut Golae sauce and finished with pickled mooli and chilli, it’s a blend of spicy and sour, with the sweetness of coconut.

_{Line Caught Mackerel, Rhubarb & Horseradish from AngloThai Tasting Menu | Photograph: Ben Broomfield}

_{Brixham Crab, Exmoor Caviar, Coconut Ash Cracker from AngloThai Tasting Menu | Photograph: Ben Broomfield}

The delicate brown crab emulsion crowned with elderflower gel and glistening pearls of caviar over sweet white crab meat is a visual delight and made an indelible impression on me.

From there, signature plates like British Octopus with Chilli Jam & Courgette, and the Ryall Farm Hogget, Câr-y-Môr Cockles & Herb Curry show off not only AngloThai’s bold flavour profile, but its deep commitment to sustainable sourcing and local farming. Even the rice, often flown thousands of miles is replaced by heritage British grains, for me, barley accompanies my main course.

_{British Octopus, Chilli Jam & Courgette from AngloThai Tasting Menu | Photography credit: Ben Broomfield}

Another highlight of the evening is the honey butter Brioche, pillowy soft and an excellent pairing with the 28-day aged Beef Tongue Jungle Curry — mouthfuls that both comfort and thrill.

Desserts carry the same creative precision, and we are first presented with a palate cleanser. The Blackcurrant Leaf–infused ice cream glossed with Long Peppercorn Oil, with reduced Beetroot with Strawberry could have stood alone as a dessert, so beautifully balanced and amplified on flavour, the first spoonful left me speechless while my guest mouthed the word ‘wow’.

_{Strawberry, Grachai & Coconut Flan from AngloThai Tasting Menu | Photograph: Ben Broomfield}

_{AngloThai interior | Photograph: Charlie McKay}

A duo of desserts arrives at our table, spotlighting Strawberry, Grachai & Coconut Flan. To finish is the Kanom Lek, a raspberry jelly dusted with sugar, pink and Sichuan peppercorn, and chilli flakes, finished with a playful dab of tamarind gel, ending our culinary voyage on a sweet note.

There’s a confident duality that runs through every part of the AngloThai experience, East and West, old and new, bold and subtle. The result is a restaurant that feels like a true extension of its founders: inventive, heartfelt, and completely original. It’s clear this is a space where everything means something. And in a city that often prizes hype over heart, AngloThai is a reminder of what can happen when both are given room to shine.

by Vivian Hui

Lunch Tasting Menu: £65

Dinner Tasting Menu: £125

To book visit here

AngloThai, 22-24 Seymour Place, London W1H 7NL

The post British Ingredients Meet Thai Soul at AngloThai first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

With summertime in mind, an early Japanese note can be struck with a gin-based cocktail that is complex but artfully composed: elderflower (fermented and foraged blossom), a distillate of wasabi root and a juice made from the leaves of the shiso herb. This or one of the other crafted drinks invites slow sips either outdoors on the terrace (last orders here are taken at 18.45) or in the dining room.

To the east, Big Ben looks shiny and touristy; Nelson’s Pillar to the north and the BT Tower behind are distinctive presences; while out on the terrace, the London Eye feels alarmingly close and the tops of the Ministry of Defence buildings Kafkaesque in their blank solidity.

_{Kioku by Endo on the rooftop of The OWO}

A trolly wheeled to your table is usually reserved for carving meat, filleting fish or tempting you with desserts but at Kioku by Endo it arrives, as one of the menu’s ‘Bites’, with two different cuts of raw tuna (akami and chutoro) before mixing them with egg yolk and wasabi. Placed inside small bread rolls, they please the palette and prepare you for the food to come.

Sashimi and nigiri can be selected individually or mixed as the chef’s selection. Here, as throughout the meal, there is the delightfully changing tabelware that quality Japanese restaurants so excel at presenting. What might be unexpected is the perfect suitability of Rathfinny wines, coming from chalky Sussex soil, for the refined gracefulness of a visit to Kioku by Endo.

_{Chef Asimakis Chaniotis adds a final touch at Myrtos}

The scene at Myrtos on Brompton Road in South Kensington comes courtesy of a new, smartly attired restaurant where the décor’s nautical theme overtly evokes a warm place by the sea on a Greek island: wave-like undulations above your head, sparkling blue panels on the walls and a lovely looking olive tree in a giant pot.

The neat marble bar – curated, like its cocktails, by legendary Line in Athens – makes you want to linger and talk about holidays in the sun. The food menu is suitably Mediterranean, filled with appetisers and small plates before progressing towards the choice of a shared main dish of fish or meat. With Greek desserts and wonderful cheeses that include soft and hard ones from Kefalonia and a blue one from Ithaca, an authentic Hellenic experience awaits diners.

Myrtos is spacious but the pavement tables are appealing and not just because it’s the Greek thing to do. From them, you can see Michelin House with its glazed tiles, motor tyres on the parapet and giant lettering. Opened in 1911 as the UK headquarters of the French company, the design was artistically ahead of its time and it remains one of London’s most unusual buildings.

_{Rotunda Bar & Lounge}

When a warm summer evening suggests something less than full plates of food, head for the Rotunda Bar & Lounge at the illustrious Four Seasons Tower Bridge. Live music form Thursday to Saturday evenings adds to the charm of sitting comfortably in a splendiferous domed space, large enough to accommodate soft seating at tables as well as an outer circle of small sofas with their own low tables.

There is also a bar with stools, though this is not a place for lounge lizards but more a perch for watching some of the new signature cocktails being prepared with the finest of ingredients to produce exquisite tastes. Martinis, for instance, use a top-notch vodka from Montenegro, bergamot rosolio from Italy, touches of verjus and a very dry sherry – mixed and presented with a lychee on the side in its own small bowl of ice.

_{Martini with lychee on the side at Rotunda Bar and Lounge}

The food snacks at Rotunda Bar & Lounge are equally well-crafted, whether a chicken Japanese-flavoured bun, aubergine croquettes, yellow tail sashimi or Maldon oysters, originally of Pacific provenance and now cultivated in an Essex estuary.

There is much else besides and the passing of culinary time is marked by the more subdued lighting as evening settles in. The unobtrusive service never ruffles the prevailing air of calmness and you may end up staying here longer than anticipated.

_{Chef Dana at Jang (photo by Eleonora Boscarelli)}

The neoclassical edifice sometimes mistaken for the Bank of England, the Royal Exchange, has for so long been home to financial institutions that it may come as a surprise to discover the delights of an exceptional cuisine behind its stately exterior.

Ascending a stone staircase from a corner of the ground floor, you will find Jang serving food that reflects the tremendous impact of Japan on Korea’s culinary culture and the creative interpretation of this heritage by the chef. Hailing from Gwangju in the southwest of Korea, Chef Dana’s flair and inventiveness have created a menu for Londoners’ diverse food tastes: sirloin steak is brought out in a charcoal pot that stays burning to maintain the temperature; sashimi is presented on a formidably-sized metal crocodile; ‘Jang KFC’ is enlivened with fiery gochujang sauce; vegans will love bibimbap, as classic as it gets, after asking for the egg to be omitted and adding a kimchi salad and geongyang rice.

Cocktails at Jang can include those from Engel, the large bar that also overlooks the café area on the floor of the Royal Exchange and, on Fridays and Saturdays, sushi and champagne sessions also feature at Jang.

_{Iberico Bossam Tower for two to share at Jang (photo by Eleonora Boscarelli)}

Summer is the time for seasonal pop-ups and current ones include a celebration of Château Minuty, a wine estate on the Saint-Tropez peninsula, at the Minuty Terrace at Park Hyatt, London River Thames. A new cocktail menu explores agave-based spirits at Isabel Mayfair and, staying in that London neighbourhood, a new Paloma menu at Caviar Kaspia injects summer fun into the tequila-based cocktail with the help of The London Essence Co.

by Sean Sheehan

The post Exploring Summertime Dining in London first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

It’s all about the food enjoyed in an intimate atmosphere that counts here; inviting guests on a journey that begins the moment they step into the townhouse, bathed in dark wood and fragrant with scents wafting from the kitchen.

_{The Cocochine}

Opened last year by Chef Larry Jayasekara and Tim Jefferies, owner of the Hamiltons Galleries, this well-oiled duo reaches further than just dining – aiming for a holistically artistic experience merging food and art. Rooms and corridors’ walls are adorned with Richard Avedon and Irving Penn with their stark black and white photography shining against the warm darkness of the moody interior.  

_{The Cocochine}

Now, in his solo venture, Sri Lankan-born Jayasekara made his name learning his craft in some of the world’s finest kitchens, training under big names such as Raymond Blanc and Gordon Ramsay and eventually leading the Michelin-starred Pétrus in London.

Pouring his heart and soul, he created a deeply personal dining experience for each guest, one rooted in old-school hospitality and choice of the best ingredients. Sourcing seasonal produce from a farm in Northamptonshire and seafood from the Scottish coast, he crafts modern dishes inspired by his Sri Lankan heritage.

_{Dry Aged Rowler Farm Sika Deer}

Spread across four stories of a beautifully designed Georgian townhouse, each floor is its own secluded world, resembling more of an exclusive members’ club than a typical restaurant. The ground-floor dining room is soaked in warm, dim lighting – carefully angled to not cast any shadows on the table – delicately illuminating burgundy leather sofas and classic herringbone parquet. 

Upstairs, the first floor hides an exclusive seven-seat section allowing guests to observe the magic happening at the chef’s counter – a must-have in any fine dining restaurant. The very limited seating that shares an enclosed space with the chefs makes you feel fully submerged in the creative process. I’m surprised to hear that the restaurant sits only 35 tables, instead dedicating almost a third of the entire space to, arguably, the most important element of fine dining jigsaw – the kitchen. 

_{The Cocochine}

We are led to the top floor, where a high-ceiling private dining room awaits us to start with a glass of champagne. With a long central table and surrounding sofas, the space is far from resembling a restaurant, more similar to a comfortable living room – albeit one with its private bar. A selection of canapés arrives: delicate burrata and tomato tartlets, a truffle ball crowned with even more shaved truffle, and a reimagined cheese and onion bite, finished, naturally, with caviar.

When we sit at our table, we are presented with a basket of warm bread, which feels like a welcome to heaven, if the door to paradise offered a limitless array of gluten. Each piece is equally irresistible: a sweet onion brioche or crusty sourdough loaf, which disappears in seconds, smeared generously with soft, salted butter. 

_{Japanese tuna otoro}

I enthusiastically order otoro tuna topped with golden Oscietra caviar – a meticulous pairing developed by Jayasekara during his visit to a soy shop in Japan. It melts on the tongue with flavours perfectly complementing each other. The lobster that follows is barbecued on an open grill in front of our table, still sizzling as it arrives on the plate. Wrapped in a banana leaf, a nod to Southeast Asian technique, it’s deeply infused with earthy, smoky notes that balance the subtle sweetness of the meat.

For the main course, I chose wild John Dory, paired with lobster (you can never get enough), a delicate courgette flower, and an intensely orange pickled peach. On a whim, we follow the sommelier’s suggestion and pair it with a glass of 2019 Kracher Zweigelt – the subtle berry notes of the red wine complement the dish’s gentle sweetness beautifully.

My guest selects the dry-aged turbot, presented in a vibrant, floral composition, finished with shavings of Australian truffle and edible blossoms. It’s a dish as visually striking as it is delicious – an artwork that vanishes as quickly as it arrives.

_{Larry Jayasekara}

Although tempted to skip dessert, the staff gently insist we try the Tahitian vanilla ice cream – and what better sign of a brilliant meal than being persuaded to reconsider what might be the plainest contender in the pudding world? Unsurprisingly, it is a revelation. Enveloped in a warm embrace of caramel sauce, the ice cream has the texture of a perfectly chilled cloud. A definition that what is simple does not have to be boring. 

In a part of London saturated with polished tasting menus and impeccable service, The Cocochine quietly carves out its own path, defined not by spectacle, but by having a soul and a story behind it. Its commitment to traditional hospitality and a personal approach results in a dining experience that feels genuinely thoughtful. And what better proof of its success than the calendar already booked up for the upcoming months? 

by Olga Petrusewicz

To book visit here

The Cocochine, 27 Bruton Pl, London, W1J 6NQ

The post Serving fine dining with a side of fine art at The Cocochine, Mayfair first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Nowadays, it is Greek chefs who travel the globe creating culinary adventures of renown and the Mar-Bella Collection applauds this with its Greek Chefs Abroad programme. Celebrating the programme’s fifth year in 2025, a star event takes place at Apaggio restaurant at Nido in Corfu on 24 July 2025.

_{Apaggio at Nido}

Just like Odysseus, Chef Takis Panagakis is returning to the island where his legendary prowess began. It began in the kitchen at Etrusco before he ventured to the Netherlands and established a reputation at Michelin-starred restaurants like Basiliek and Brouwerskolkje.

He founded Elea in The Hague – a ‘fabulous restaurant’ says the Michelin guide – trailblazing a course for fine dining influenced by Greek cuisine. From July 24, he stars at Apaggio with a menu that does justice to his renowned status.

_{Chef Takis Panagakis}

_{Dish at Apaggio}

Nido, a five-star luxury resort exclusively for adults aged 16 and over, is part of the Mar-Bella Collection on Corfu. Though only a half-hour drive from Corfu Town, the resort is tucked away into a forest-lined hillside that leads down to a pebbled beach. There are two distinctive restaurants besides Apaggio, two attractive bars and an infinity pool; suite guests enjoy additional benefits.

by Sean Sheehan

The post A Star Event with the Mar-Bella Collection 24 July in Corfu first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

_{The Hut from water}

The experience begins before we even leave the mainland. Forget boring and tedious ferry journeys – instead a bright red, James Bond-esque speedboat from Attitude Charter awaits in Lymington. Arguably the sleekest way to arrive at The Hut, maybe only besides the helicopter, and who doesn’t like to arrive in style?

With champagne flowing and a surprisingly powerful sound system playing our favourite tunes throughout the journey, we slice through the Solent. The wind is taking full control of our hairstyles, but no one minds as we leave grey clouds behind us chasing the sun shining above the island.

_{Attitude charter boat}

Nestled among colourful beach huts is The Hut, its bold name stretches across the rooftop, making it impossible to miss. Music drifts over the water, luring us in as small tenders speed across the bay, ferrying guests safely from boat to shore. Its irresistible appeal lies in its perfect blend of fun, flavour, and scenery.

Once a humble beach bar, the venue has transformed into a glamorous seaside destination without losing its laid-back soul and has been welcoming guests since 2013. With its reputation firmly established among the yachties, it delivers premium hospitality as well as a carefree coastal spirit – think staff in beach attire weaving between tables carrying endless bottles of rosé. It’s all too easy to forget you haven’t actually left the UK.

_{Welcome drinks at The Hut}

After welcome drinks we are shown to our table overlooking the blue waters of Colwell Bay where the seafood feast begins. We are spoiled for choice; there are cod croquettes, pork belly with cucumber, deep fried shrimp pop corn dipped in aioli, finely sliced hamachi with mango salsa and beautifully assembled lobster salad. Attempting to pace myself is not easy, but I’m more than happy to give up my restrain and dive head first into the spread. 

_{Seafood at The Hut}

As we arrange the heaps of food on our lobster-adorned plates, a live band begins making rounds, performing personalised numbers for each table. Normally, I shy away from this kind of entertainment during a meal, but to my surprise, I find myself involuntarily nodding along.

It all just works – sunshine, sea views, and cheesy hits played by The Strikes on the contrabass and acoustic guitar. The entire terrace is loving it. But perhaps the most charming of all is the staff, who seem to be having genuine fun serving plates of food and refilling our glasses, all whilst dancing around with laughter. 

_{Seafood at The Hut}

While seafood is definitely the main focus at The Hut, the menu does offer delicious looking alternatives such as a classic cheeseburger or milanese veal for those less adventurous. Admittedly vegetarians might struggle with only a couple of simple options to choose from. The star of the show though is the surf and turf, arriving with a lobster tail and a tender beef fillet. Served with a green salad and a mountain of chips it’s exactly what it’s meant to be – simple and unfussy in its form but full to the brim with flavour. 

_{Seafood at The Hut}

To aid digestion, we’re swept up onto the deck-turned-dancefloor with the rest of the guests as the 2014 anthems play loudly, now performed on a trumpet and saxophone by Kiss My Brass band. The Hut’s signature Painkiller – a dangerously drinkable mix of rum, coconut, and pineapple – keeps finding its way into our hands. Dessert is served in the form of cakes on sticks, a clever choice given that by now, everyone’s dancing, throwing their hands carelessly in the air. 

As we jump back onto our red speed boat to cruise back towards the mainland I’m already making plans to visit The Hut’s sister Little Jumby in Antigua to try and recreate this perfect getaway in the Caribbean. With its playful spirit and irresistible food, it’s undoubtedly a destination worth adding to the summer list.

by Olga Petrusewicz

_{Charter price is £675 for up to 6 people and with Champagne to The Hut
To book visit to The Hut click here}

The post The Isle of Wight’s The Hut serves a taste of unforgettable British seafood this summer first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

The panoramas are better than those from The Shard’s viewing platform because you are in the heart of the city and not just looking at it from the other side of the Thames. Gazing down on the bloated 20 Fenchurch building confirms its walkie-talkie appearance, merely the plaything of an oversized child.

_{The Sushi Bar at Lucky Cat, 22 Bishopsgate}

Darkness reigns inside Lucky Cat – predictable enough for a Gordon Ramsay restaurant, some might say – but I was there as twilight was deepening into a night sky and a lunchtime visit, with natural light flooding in through the large windows, will be a different experience. Whatever the time of your arrival, there is the sensation inside the restaurant of being ensconced in a stationary drone, staring down at what lies below.

The menu, designed for sharing with chopsticks, kicks off with sparkly starters like crunchy Kyoto cucumbers with sesame and spiced-up edamame. Japanese affiliations predominate in what follows– tempura, sushi, lots of sashimi – but to think of Lucky Cat as a Japanese restaurant would be misleading: the oysters are Gillardeau, the wagyu is Australian and lamb chops feature alongside lobster siu mai.

The rooftop level above, on the 61^st floor, will be opening soonish as a terrace bar so the prospect of going even higher in the sky beckons.

_{Views from Lucky Cat, looking across at The Shard}

Lucky Cat can be loud with a DJ belting out music and busyness around the bar area. Not so at Mei Ume, at the Four Seasons Hotel at Tower Bridge, where on a quiet evening a pin dropping to the floor might feel like a noisy intrusion.

The presence in the restaurant of Corinthian columns suggests stateliness but floral touches lighten the scene and the overall atmosphere is one of unstuffy, aristocratic calm. It befits the grandeur of the early twentieth-century building you have entered, at its best in the magnificent domed lobby where softly played live music sets the Four Seasons tone of quietly asserted classiness.

_{Mei Ume excels in celebrating Japanese food}

Mei Ume celebrates Japanese and Chinese food so smoked Peking duck and abalone compete for attention with moriawase and nigiri. Deserted at short notice by my companion, I was dining alone and deprived of taking advantage of the intriguing combinations available from the à la carte menu. The silver lining, however, came with the realization that Japanese cuisine might be at its most sublime and exquisite when enjoyed alone.

_{Mei Ume}

The restaurant excels when it comes to pairing sake and French wines with Asian food. Its cocktails are the usual mix of the expected and the eclectic and, delighted at finding pisco on the drinks menu, I enquired about El Capitán. The bar was not familiar with this cocktail but undeterred did some quick research and produced one that in Peru, from my memory of  experiencing it there, would be appreciated as expertly prepared.

The building that houses Saison was the government headquarters of the British Army between 1857 and 1964. An historic edifice, its location at the junction of Horse Guards Avenue and Whitehall is tremendously iconic. Now known as the Old War Office (OWO), it is home to an illustriously-named hotel: Raffles London at The OWO. Inside, you are awed by a most imposing grand staircase until a dimensional change occurs when stepping into Saison restaurant.

It is modestly sized and attractively decorated with a large mural evoking a pastoral, Mediterranean landscape. This perfectly sets the scene for the food which is to follow, overseen by superstar Mauro Colagreco but with a new head chef who is gradually establishing his culinary presence with his own creations on the menu. One of these, using the seasonal availability of white asparagus, arrives so artistically arranged that the deployment of shapes and colours – courtesy of the vegetable, blood orange and bottarga – transforms the plate into a Miró painting.

_{Sublimely Mediterranean at Saison in Raffles London}

The wine list at Saison shines with its selection of bottles from estates in the Mediterranean region but Burgundy is not forgotten and you will also find a dozen or so different Chablis worth considering. It also has surprises, like a fine Chardonnay from Argentina, a 2021 Zuccardi, pale lemon in colour and taste-pleasingly austere with an artichoke salad or lobster Bolognese. Many of the ingredients are sourced nationally, from Cornwall to Hampshire, but the spirit of Saison and its inspiration is the Riviera.

by Sean Sheehan

Lucky Cat is on the 60^th floor at 22 Bishopsgate, London, EC2N 4BQ.

Mei Ume is at Four Seasons Hotel London, 10 Trinity Square, London, EC3N 4AJ.

Saison is in Raffles London at The OWO, 57 Whitehall, London SW1A 2BX

The post Very high, very sublime and very Mediterranean: Glass goes to Lucky Cat, Mei Ume and Saisons first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

_{Rocas Espresso Martini}

To celebrate the Velasco exhibition at The National Gallery, Ochre has crafted a tequila-based cocktail menu drawing inspiration from the painter’s breathtaking views of the Mexican countryside. The result? A collection of drinks that feel as much like a journey through Mexico’s natural beauty and refreshing flavours. 

_{The Forest of Pacho}

Each cocktail is a little nod to Velasco’s world and to the artistry of cocktail making. The Forest of Pacho is light and green, layered with elderflower, lime, cucumber, and just enough jalapeño to awake me after a long day. 

Then there’s Rocas, a rich, bold take on the espresso martini, made with Tapiato Anejo, smooth coffee, and a cloud of traditional Mexican salted horchata foam – silky and familiar, yet with a note of surprise. 

_{The Valley of Mexico}

But the real showstopper is The Valley of Mexico. Inspired by Velasco’s most iconic painting, this cocktail arrives with an edible artwork – an actual transfer of the painting – perched delicately on top. It’s a little surreal, a little theatrical, and, without a doubt, absolutely delicious. 

Paired with a selection of bar snacks – think plump green olives, freshly baked bread with whipped butter, or golden mac & cheese croquettes. Weekday evenings in London just got a serious upgrade.

By Olga Petrusewicz

_{The cocktail menu is available Monday to Thursday. Book table here.
National Gallery, Trafalgar Sq, London WC2N 5DN}

The post A Mexican summer in a glass: Ochre presents artful new cocktails first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

With world-renowned chef Raymond Blanc at the helm, this two-Michelin-starred restaurant is set within a honey-hued manor house that exudes charm and elegance. Surrounded by 27 acres of manicured gardens in the idyllic village of Great Milton, it is recognized as one of the UK’s most iconic gastronomic destinations.

_{Exterior of Le Manoir}

Le Manoir also holds the distinction of being home to the UK’s first Michelin-star kitchen with its very own dedicated cookery school — a true testament to its pioneering spirit. This summer, the estate plays host to a series of immersive experiences designed to engage the senses and elevate the appreciation for the art of fine food.

_{Le Manoir Garden Green House}

Among the highlights is Grow, Cook, Eat, a unique fusion of the Raymond Blanc Cookery School and Gardening School. This hands-on course guides guests through the process of cultivating their own produce — from sowing seeds to harvesting vegetables — before turning their bounty into exquisite seasonal dishes under expert guidance. It’s a soulful, sensory journey from soil to plate.

_{Provence Suite}

For true connoisseurs, Four Hands Lunch offers a rare gastronomic affair: an extraordinary collaboration between Raymond Blanc and fellow French maestro, three-Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno. This exclusive culinary encounter blends their shared respect for French cuisine with masterful innovation, creating an unforgettable dining experience.

_{Provence Suite}

I am staying in my own retreat withina ground-floor suite, Provence, inspired by Raymond Blanc’s travels throughout the South of France. With its secluded garden — perfect for a romantic aperitif — the suite captures rustic elegance at its finest. Exposed wooden beams, floral drapes with lavender accents revealing floor-to-ceiling windows, invite the outdoors in.

An open fireplace adds warmth and intimacy especially during the cooler months, while a large dining table sets the scene for a leisurely in-room breakfast. Double doors lead to the elevated spacious bedroom, complete with marble bathroom with sunken bath, separate shower and a walk-in dressing room. Every detail, from the décor to the atmosphere, whispers romance and French charm.

_{Raymond Blanc and Yannick Alleno}

As evening falls, I wander across the estate to the dining room — home to the only British restaurant to hold two Michelin stars for over 30 consecutive years. Dinner, complimented by supreme service, comprises of a sublime seven-course tasting menu, a culinary revelation: slow, deliberate, and indulgent. It is here, in this extraordinarily lavish setting, that I begin to truly appreciate the pinnacle of culinary excellence.

_{Raymond Blanc Cookery School}

Le Manoir is more than just a destination. It is a place where memories are made, where wishes are granted, and where dreams, really do, come true.

By Amanda Bernstein

_{https://www.belmond.com/hotels/europe/uk/oxfordshire/belmond-le-manoir-aux-quat-saisons/calendar-of-events}

The post Glass stays at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons: A culinary retreat of dreams first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

Titled The Great Gatsby: Only Afternoon Tea!, the limited-edition culinary offering has been carefully designed to echo key tropes and storylines from the musical. Set in the hotel’s original 1920s Palm Court – a Grade II-listed space that is one of London’s finest surviving examples of Jazz Age architecture- the afternoon tea will transport visitors into a world of alluring opulence.

_{The Great Gatsby-themed Afternoon Tea at Sheraton Grand London Park Lane}

To start, guests can enjoy a range of savoury dishes and sandwiches that pay homage to Fitzgerald’s story through clever details and decadent presentation. For example, the East Egg Truffle Salad features a delicate mix of summer truffle and heritage egg, while the Rockefeller Smoked Salmon Tart is topped with an exciting blend of cucumber pearls and dill crème. 

_{The Great Gatsby-themed Afternoon Tea at Sheraton Grand London Park Lane}

Later, guests can enjoy sweet treats such as a zesty Lemon & Jazz-mine Meringue Pie or Daisy’s Tropical Choux. Menu highlights also include the Roaring Opera – a gold-dusted pistachio and raspberry sponge cake – and the Gatsby Forest Gateau. Served alongside warm scones, clotted cream, and a selection of fine teas or Champagne, the sweet course is certain to immerse guests in Gatsby’s glamorous world.

Similarly, visitors can enjoy a selection of themed cocktails, including the Gatsby Gold Rush, Green Light Martini, Daisy’s Delight, and the Flapper’s Fizz.

_{The Great Gatsby-themed Afternoon Tea at Sheraton Grand London Park Lane}

_{The Great Gatsby-themed Afternoon Tea at Sheraton Grand London Park Lane}

Set in a venue dripping with vintage charm, the afternoon tea effortlessly captures the flair and grandiosity of its musical counterpart. It’s equal parts elegance and glamour, with every bite dressed to impress.

by Sophie Richardson

_{The Great Gatsby: Only Afternoon Tea! and themed cocktails are available daily in Palm Court from 16 May to 7 September 2025. Prices start at £65.00 per person, with Champagne upgrades available at £85.00. Themed cocktails are from £19 each, available in Palm Court. For more information or to book, please visit here.}

_{The Great Gatsby: A New Musical is available to watch at the London Coliseum from 11 April to 7 September 2025. For more information or to book, please visit here.}

The post Sheraton Grand London Park Lane launches The Great Gatsby-themed Afternoon Tea first appeared on The Glass Magazine.

However, an intimate PoB Hotel located just outside of Carlisle may be about to challenge that idea. Housing just 18 bedrooms, Farlam Hall is a cosy traditional country house surrounded by fields of untouched English countryside and woodlands to explore.

_{Farlam Hall}

Consisting of 12 guest rooms and six stable suites, Farlam Hall embraces a traditional yet contemporary interior design approach. Plush furnishing in an array of muted pastels meet modern tall ceilings, elegant window seats, and sweeping vistas of the countryside.

_{Farlam Hall}

Located notably close to the Scottish border, the hotel boasts an impressive six acres of land and is far enough away from any major city to ensure an escape from the hustle and bustle of the metropolitan lifestyle. Bleating sheep replace the perpetual sound of cars and sirens, whereas crystal clear views of the Orion nebula and the Northern lights make for a lovely swap from the dense city smog.

But don’t be fooled – the local landscape still offers ample entertainment options. From traversing Hadrian’s Wall to exploring Lanercost Priory, hiking around the various nearby tarns and moorland, or enjoying a local pint at the Twice Brewed Inn, Cumbria has much to enjoy.

Additionally, much of the hotel’s surrounding space is used to produce ingredients for Farlam Hall’s culinary team. For example, bee hives provide silky smooth honey and part of the garden is used to grow fresh fruits and legumes. With such an emphasis on local, fresh ingredients, the hotel’s cuisine is certainly a major attraction.

_{Farlam Hall}

_{The Cedar Tree Restaurant’s rose sorbet}

The Cedar Tree Restaurant is a Michelin-starred and 3 AA Rosette-awarded fine dining destination. Helmed by Chef patron Hrishikesh Desai, the menu offers unique gastronomic ensembles, spotlighting seasonal, organic produce.

For guests looking for a more personalised experience, HRISHI’s Table is an ideal offering. Launched in 2024, HRISHI’s Table is a dining experience which intertwines Indian culinary techniques with French savoir-faire and molecular gastronomy. The experience takes guests through a 14-course tasting menu, which will evolve with the seasons to ensure that only the freshest ingredients are used. Hosted by Hrishikesh and Head Chef, Benhur Gaikwad, guests can enjoy each course whilst observing the kitchen’s happenings in a relaxed, intimate environment.

_{HRISHI Table}

Designed for a maximum of 10 guests, HRISHI’s Table is an undeniably exclusive experience, which starts with a Champagne and canape reception. During my visit, the evening began with an assortment of decadent snacks – think white chocolate-infused olives, foamed guacamole and mackerel tartar, elevated New Delhi street food classics, and a South Indian Appam, all accompanied by a glass of Taittinger, Prelude Grands Crus.

After the initial tasters, the menu opened to a bread course, which featured four types of bread and three types of butter. As delicious as the bread is, it is quite carb-heavy, so it’s worth pacing yourself here so you can enjoy the rest of what the tasting menu has to offer.

_{HRISHI Table}

We then enjoyed a delicate white asparagus ensemble, a cauliflower steak, Cornish cod, and cornfed chicken. In particular, the cornfed chicken was a stand-out offering. Infused with warm spices, white garlic, black truffle, and smoked pancetta, the dish was tender and full of flavour. After enjoying the savoury courses, we then had a preserved garden strawberry dessert, which featured a yoghurt-based foam, and a final course of petit fours.

Alternatively, for those looking for a more laid-back dining option, Farlam Hall’s Bistro Enkel is an excellent choice. Taken from the old Nordic word, Enkel means “simple”, therefore it comes as no surprise that Bistro Enkel offers flavourful yet classic, uncomplicated dishes.

Ideal for a relaxed weekend get-away or for those hoping to wine & dine in luxury, Farlam Hall is set to become a Cumbria favourite.

by Sophie Richardson

_{Rates at Farlam Hall for a Standard Room begin at £340 on a B&B basis. For more information and to book, please visit here.}

_{A non-residential package for private dining begins at £3,500 and includes the exclusive HRISHI’s Table dining experience for up to 10 guests, which includes the Taittinger Prelude Grands Crus Champagne and canapes on arrival, followed by a multi course tasting menu with matching wines, coffee & petit fours. For more information and to book, please visit here.}

The post Farlam Hall delivers relaxation and Michelin-starred cuisine in Cumbria first appeared on The Glass Magazine.