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Latest News Published 19th January
Hi Fellow Foodies,
As this is the first newsletter of 2024, it is still ok to wish you a Happy New Year (just}.
A warm welcome to you all.
It’s been a busy but fun start to the year for me and the website. Two reviews, a visit to the exciting and innovative Thai restaurant Kiln Soho. It is the first time I have seen Kippers and whitebait on the menu of a Thai restaurant, and then last week, lunch at the Shepherd Market gastro pub, The Chesterfield Arms.The signature dish at the Chesterfield arms-Beef Wellington
That sums up why I like what I do so much, from the hustle and bustle of a Thai kitchen restaurant to the comparatively sedate calm of an English pub restaurant. They are totally different restaurants, but both are equally good.
I’ve also fulfilled a promise to add a few more recipes to the website, and enjoyed cooking them and then even more fun trying to remember them.
Before I forget, Father Christmas did deliver two new cookbooks, Sabrina Gayhour’s Flavour and Hoppers The Cookbook, a book showcasing Sri Lankan recipes.
Sabrina’s new book is a mix of Middle Eastern cuisine and some fun recipes, samosa pasta and Chinese-inspired chilli lamb (based on Chinese Chill beef). Both dishes sound worth a go.
Hopper’s cookbook reminds me of the Dishoom cookbook, showcasing recipes from their restaurants. I cooked the devilled chicken, and it went down well. If you like Asian food, I can highly recommend it.
Special Offers and News
Noble Rot Mayfair, nominated in the Good Food Guide awards “Best New Restaurant of the Year” category, has a cracking lunch offer: two courses for £22 and 3 courses for £26. The menu changes daily, so check the website for details.
The Devonshire in Soho has created a bit of a storm since it opened 12 weeks ago; they have a set menu of Prawn & Langoustine cocktail, Skirt steak & chips and for Puds, sticky toffee pudding £29
Corinthia London has announced an Afternoon Tea Sale (two for one) for the month of January for their signature Traditional Afternoon Tea, which is offered in the Crystal Moon
Lounge in the heart of the hotel. Valid until 31 January 2024, it is ideal for tables of two, four or up to six guests (giving one, two or three of them a free tea!).
With 31 restaurants across the UK, Individual Restaurants are offering guests 50% off in January when they are a member of Club IR.
Throughout January, guests can enjoy 50% off food at any group’s restaurants: Piccolino, Mayfair, Piccolo by Piccolino, Riva Blu and Restaurant Bar & Grill. The offer applies to any dish on the à la carte menu and is available Monday – Thursday every week in January.
Full details can be found here: https://individualrestaurants.com/50-off-food-in-january/
Jason Atherton’s Little Social restaurant offers a Prix Fixe menu for £27 for three courses, Lunchtime and early evening.
The award-winning Pub and restaurant The Barley Mow Mayfair are launching a breakfast menu starting 26th February. No more details as yet, but you will be the first to know as soon as I have them. Judging by the food in the Barley Mow, it will be very special, a great way to kick off any celebration in town.
Regarding breakfast, I received a recommendation from a good friend in the Industry that Masala Zone in Piccadilly has recently launched a breakfast menu at their stunning flagship restaurant. By all accounts, she said it was excellent, and thats good enough for me. I had a peek at the menu, and the Bacon & Masala Omelette Toastie Naan has my name on it. Do let me know if you go.
Just before Christmas, I was shocked and disappointed to hear that Hush was closing. Hush has been a Mayfair favourite for years; you can still get your Hush fix at their Holborn restaurant. The news is that Soho House has snapped up the fantastic building and location of Hush. I assume they will open a restaurant, and I requested info, but as we speak, I am still waiting to hear back.
The Guinea Grill (we reviewed in December) is closed for two months while they refurbish and add 60 more covers and a private dining area. To add the additional room they have taken over the premises next door. They reopen early March.
That’s about it for today, but the first in a series of articles about sustainability in hospitality will be on the recently opened 1 Hotel Mayfair and how they are managing to offer a sustainable option in the luxury hotel market.
Thanks for reading, and have a lovely weekend
Martin
P.S. My New Year resolution is to keep the newsletters shorter. I think I’ve just about managed it 😀
Instagram @themayfairfoodie.com
Latest News Published 22nd December
Christmas Newsletter
Christmas Greetings, Fellow Foodies,
If you are like me, you are running around trying to fit in last-minute shopping, work, and, most importantly, some festive time in the kitchen.
So, with that in mind, this will be a short & sweet newsletter.
I have been on frequent visits to Mayfair this month, and it is so Christmassy; if you get a chance to go to Mayfair over the holidays, here are a few of my highlights that might be worth taking a look at:
Annabels Christmas display on the facade (on Berkley Square)
The Louis Vuitton Christmas Tree at Claridges
Christmas pudding decorations in Fortnum & Mason (this is so good)
Hedonism Wines Christmas Market feature
20,000 silk roses that light up Grosvenor Square
The Christmas mini outside Koyn restaurant Grosvenor Street
Plans for next year
A lot more of the same but bigger & better. I have a few interviews in the pipeline of high-profile chefs that have been on your TV screens a lot recently, I can’t name names until we actually sit down and chat. Needless to say, I’m very excited and wish I could tell you more, but you will be the first to know.
I’ve been lucky to eat at some fantastic restaurants this year. I hope you have enjoyed the reviews and many highlights, including sketch, Veeraswamy, Tendril, Ginza St James and my recent visit to the Guinea Grill (read here), to name a few. We want to bring you more of the same in 2024, featuring reviews on various cuisines and restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets.Steak selection in The Guinea Grill
Based on feedback mainly from our overseas readers, we are launching a new section bringing an in-depth look at the best hotels in the area. I contacted a few of the best hotels in the area, and they are all keen to get involved, so let’s see where we go with this feature.
If you have any hotels you would like featured, let me know.
Sustainability is a big topic in any industry, and the hospitality industry is no different, so we are looking to champion businesses or people who are making a difference in looking after our environment as well as great food and drinks.
Recipes, much to my surprise, are a very popular feature on the website; I apologise for not adding more and will aim to rectify this in 2024
Finally, regarding drinks, we continue with our popular wine of the month feature but also want to showcase more bars and the people within the drinks industry. At an event recently, I met a drinks advisor and creator; she will bring us some great tips on creating our own cocktails.
That’s about it, apart from wishing you and yours the happiest Christmas and a very healthy New Year.
I have been genuinely bowled over by the support from people within the industry and, most importantly, you, the reader.
Thanks for making the website so special
Here’s to a wonderful Christmas and a foodie New Year
Speak soon in 2024
Martin
Instagram @themayfairfoodie.com
Latest News Published 24th November
Fellow Foodies,
Welcome to another Mayfair Foodie newsletter
I promise to keep this one short. I see stats on my newsletters, and it always amazes me how high our open rate is, despite my best efforts to cram too much in.
So, since we last spoke, what has happened in the world of the Mayfair Foodie?
I was privileged to be invited to a special gala dinner at the Mayfair Chippy and Piper Heidsieck champagne. There were 12 guests, and we sat for a 3-course dinner. In case you missed it, I reviewed this Mayfair institution earlier this year.
We were treated to small plates of seafood to start, followed by Classic fish & chips (Mayfair Chippy Style) and puds. Wash down with Champagne and wine. What a fantastic evening!
A week later, I found myself in Marylebone for Limor Chens’ book launch at her restaurant Delamina. Her book “My Tel Aviv Table” is a food chronicle & recipes based on growing up in Tel Aviv. Her passion for the food she grew up with and now serves at her restaurant comes out on every page. The cookbook is well-written with easy-to-follow recipes, and as Limor pointed out at the launch, a picture accompanies every recipe in the book. It was a pleasure to meet Limor, and I cannot wait to start cooking some of the recipes from the book.
A few days later, we ate at a lovely Mayfair pub, The Footman. The menu had a few nice twists. A full review of the lunch is available on the website.
This week started with dinner at the much talked about Officina 00, a full review to follow soon, but a quick heads up: it is very good and a twist on the usual Italian but without losing the Italian passion for good simple pasta dishes. They have two restaurants, one in Fitzrovia and the other on Old Street.
Yesterday, I attended a Preview of the forthcoming World Raki Week. The lunch at award-winning Rüya’s was hosted by Douglas Blyde, Raki guru Ayça Budak and head chef Halit Deniz.
I learned more than you ever thought possible about the Raki and its flexibility as a key ingredient in cocktails. The Raki Berry crush was a revelation.
We were also treated to a special menu devised for the launch party by the head chef & Douglas; it was delicious. I will attempt to capture the event’s flavour with an article, which should be on the website by the end of next week.
Latest News
Connaught Grill
If you have always fancied eating at the Connaught Grill (ground floor of the Connaught Hotel) but thought it might be a bit lumpy, they have their winter season menu available, and a 2-course lunch is £35 and 3 courses £45. The chance to eat and visit one of the world’s most iconic and famous hotels for that price represents good value. If you are feeling flush, pop into the Connaught bar after, number five in the best bars in the world and arguably the most famous. For this ultimate experience, you can enjoy a house cocktail, gin, and tonic for £25. Why not treat yourself? I won’t tell anybody.
Sketch, London
As is the way at sketch, they transformed the famous entrance of the restaurant into a theme inspired by Robert Frost’s poem “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening.” It is stunning, and if you are nearby, pop in to take a look, you won’t be disappointed.
Florencio Pizza-Chef Patron Diego Jacquet
Argentinian Chef Patron Diego Jacquet is opening Florencio Pizza in Seymour Place. Diego’s career included working at “Casa Nicolasa” in San Sebastian, the famous El Bulli, under Ferran Adria. Then on to New York and Aquavit, the award-winning Swedish restaurant run by chef Marcus Samuelsson, so these are not going to be any ordinary Pizza’s.
Claridge Christmas Tree by Louis Vuitton
We mere mortals must endure the annual chore of putting up the Christmas tree. My job is to feed the Christmas tree lights to my wife whilst spinning around the tree. This usually takes two attempts, but one year, we managed a record-breaking four attempts. Fingers crossed that this year; we can achieve the desired effect in one go.
Meanwhile, if you are Claridges, you have Louis Vuitton to provide your tree. Well, the word tree is probably stretching it, as from looking at the picture, there is not a spruce in sight; nevertheless, it does look very impressive.
Coming Up
As we head into December and the busy Christmas season, I have only one restaurant visit in December, which is the ever-popular Guinea Grill, and it is a good way to end the year. The Guinea Grill is closing its doors for January & February for major renovations, including adding additional much-needed by taking over the next-door premises.
I know you have heard this from me before, but I will get my apron on and cook some Christmas dishes to add to our popular recipe section. So far, google reviews have given our recipes 5-star reviews. It’s a good job they did not taste my versions😀
While discussing recipes, my favourite cookbook article has some lovely cookery book suggestions which might give some inspiration for Christmas gifts.
I will publish the review of Officina and Raki-inspired lunch at Ruya.
I’m going to add a few new Christmas cocktail recipes; I need to get down to some serious tasting for this project, as I know you would expect me to research this thoroughly🍹🍸.
I almost forgot the lovely Sherry from Hedonism has an exceptional wine of the Month for December; it’s not to be missed. Check the website next week for some great selections.
So, I hope you enjoy the next few weeks and try to stay calm with the Christmas prep. Take time to enjoy the season and spoil yourself.
As always, send any comments or let me know your dining experiences. I’m also looking for Christmas leftover recipes; I’m working on one based on Dishoom’s Lamb Raan, using Turkey leg instead of lamb. I’ll let you know how it goes.
There will be one more newsletter this year (mid-December), and then I will leave you in peace until January.
Thanks as always for reading. It would appear I’ve failed to keep it short again; I just love writing the newsletter.
Have a good weekend.
Speak soon,
Martin
Latest News Published 26th October
Welcome, fellow foodies,
Last Saturday, I attended a writing masterclass by Jay Rayner (food critic & journalist) on how to write about the same subject and make it interesting to you & your readers.
For somebody who spent many years writing about Promotional Merchandise, this masterclass might have come a little late in my career, but for your sake, hopefully, you might see a benefit.
Needless to say, Jay was very entertaining and made the art of good writing seem effortless. I will let you know if Mr Rayner runs another masterclass.
The last month has been the busiest for the website. We have articles on Tendril, the must-visit Mercato Mayfair, and afternoon tea at the Beaumont Hotel,{get me).
I was also privileged to interview Chef and author Maunika Gowardhan. She is passionate about bringing regional food recipes through her books and social media channels. I really enjoyed interviewing her; it is well worth a read.
Finally, prompted by my wife, I decided to cull the masses of recipe books I have, and while doing so, I thought it would be fun to list my favourite cookbooks. It is a challenging task, much like choosing your favourite albums. Are any of my selections on your bookshelf?
The cull could have been more successful, but thats is between me and you.
Latest News
Limor Chen’s book release
Restaurantuer and Chef Limor Chen has her new book “My Tel Aviv Table” published on the 14th of November. I’m lucky enough to have had a sneak peek, and if you want to bring flavours of the Mediterranean & Middle East into your kitchen this winter, this book is for you.
Limor brings a wide variety of dishes from growing up in Tel Aviv, introducing us to new spices & flavours through her dishes; the book reminds me of one of my favourite cookbooks, Simply by Sabrina Gayour. I am sure this will become a bestseller, and I cannot wait to start cooking from the book.
Limor & her husband run the Delamina restaurants based in Marylebone & Shoreditch.
Kanishka, weekend brunch and Sunday supper clubs
Starting 4th November, Kanishka is starting weekend bottomless brunch. For 2 hours, enjoy eight classic dishes, unlimited beer, red and white wine for £65.00 per person.
Continuing the series of guest chef supper clubs, Kanishka welcomes Thuy Diem Pham, chef, Author & Influencer, and architect of the much-loved Little Viet Kitchen. It’s your chance to experience the very best in Vietnamese cuisine. Sunday 26th November. More details
Chutney Mary awards
I’m delighted to announce Chutney Mary won The AA Restaurant Award “Restaurant of the Year -London.” The sister restaurant of Veeraswamy has built a reputation for classic cooking and new innovative dishes.
Chutney Mary is a popular winner with us, and we plan to feature the restaurant next year.
Mayfair Chippy Half Term offers
The Mayfair Chippy has announced a 50% discount on their kid’s menu throughout October half term (all this week)
For those looking for a deliciously cheap meal with the family, tuck into the Kid’s Menu featuring Fish Goujons, Fried Halloumi Fingers, and Grilled or Battered Sausage. All mains are served with Chips and Garden Peas. Drinks include Apple Juice, Orange Juice, or Milk.
Little ones can choose Chocolate, Strawberry, or Vanilla ice cream for dessert.
Enjoy two courses and a drink for £4.98.
While there, please remember to pop into Mercato Mayfair as it is located next door. It’s a great place to visit.
Kitty Fisher’s open’s Cafe Kitty
The award-winning Shepherd Market restaurant has opened a Cafe on the 1st floor of the Underbelly Boulevard theatre, W1F 0BT. The Cafe features a British menu for lunch and dinner.
Hush Private Parties & Winter Menus
If you are looking for a venue for a private party in Mayfair, Hush has several options, including their Sir Roger Moore room, which is ideal if you are planning a James Bond-themed event😀. Also, Hush’s new winter menus are out now.
Hedonism Wine Tasting
This month, Hedonism is gearing up for the holidays, when fortified wines are on our minds. They explore two styles each of Sherry, Madeira and Port, understanding the processes by which these wines are made and the various differences among them.
The Fortified Wines of Spain and Portugal
Monday, 20 November 2023
18.30 – 20.30
Tickets: £75.00
Upstairs at Langan’s
Last minute call: Langan’s has a Barbie-themed Halloween party tomorrow. Limited ticket availability. More info here.
Coming soon
Our review of Atul Kochhar’s Kanishkar will be published in the next few days, along with our November wine of the month feature.
I hope to get in the kitchen and cook my interpretation of some great recipes. Next up is a dish from Chef Maunika Gowardhan. She is confident I should not be able to ruin her dish, Rajasthani Khade Masala Ka Murgh; check the website to see how I get on. The recipe will be on there as well for you to try.
As we move quickly towards the end-of-year celebrations, I will ask a few of our friends in Mayfair to send us their favourite cocktails.
We have two restaurant visits planned for November; these will be the last of the year. But I am delighted to say we already have some great visits planned next year starting in January.
We do have some exciting new features planned for the New Year. Any suggestions you have are very welcome.
I am trying to keep my newsletters shorter ( I can hear the cheers from here), so I will send another one in a week or so with an update on Christmas offerings in Mayfair.
So, until next time, thanks as always for reading. It is very much appreciated.
Best wishes
Martin, The Mayfair Foodie
Latest News Published 25th August 2023
For the last few weeks, I have been researching for an article about “best cocktails in Mayfair.” It is a tough job, but I have managed through the alcoholic haze to put together my recommendations. It is a must-read if you are planning to embark on a night out in Mayfair.The world-famous Connaught bar
Finally, here are two new recipes for you to try: my interpretation of a Prawn Risotto dish with a twist I had recently and chicken wings & roast new potatoes tray bake. This dish has its origins in San Sebastian and has become a favourite.
What’s on
3rd September. Mayfair Gallery Crawl & Social (FREE!). Tickets
11th September.The Barley Mow. Mayfair is holding a Rugby World Cup preview evening with special guests Jason Leonard & John Iverdale. Starts 7 pm Buy Tickets here
Hosted in the upstairs dining room, join the rugby party with Jason Leonard and John Inverdale sharing their rugby stories. You’ll be part of the conversation, too. Dinner kicks off with champagne and canapes on arrival, followed by a 3-course feast including 1/2 bottle of Marsannay or St.Emilion per person, all in our First Floor Restaurant.
11th September. Hedonism Wine School. The tasting Wines of South Australia. 18.30-20.30 Limited availability. Book here
Each month in our Hedonism Wine School series, we invite you to join our events manager, Sherry Rose Stolar, for a deep dive tasting featuring a selection of wines from a particular region, grape variety or style. This month, we are delighted to partner with the Government of South Australia on a journey down under to discover all the diversity that the state of South Australia offers. We’ll be tasting wines from across South Australia’s many wine regions, including McLaren Vale, Barossa Valley, Adelaide Hills and more, accompanied by some culinary delicacies hailing from South Australia, too!
To get a flavour of what Hedonism Wines is all about, read about my experience when I visited a few months ago; you will be surprised by the sheer scale of the business.
Latest News
Hedonism/Mayfair Foodie
Hedonism Wines
I hinted in the last newsletter that I might have some exciting news. I can now confirm that Hedonism Wines (probably the world’s best wine store) is collaborating to give us a monthly “Wine of the Month “ article. From September, we will receive exclusive recommendations from Sherry Rose Stolar & the Hedonism team, giving you the inside track to excellent wines & unearthing hidden gems wines from vineyards worldwide, a trademark feature of Hedonism.
Le Gavroche
You may have heard Le Gavroche will close in January next year. For many years this restaurant has become an institution in the restaurant world. It was one of the first UK restaurants to receive a Michelin star. Michel Roux Jnr took charge in 1991.
My thoughts: Firstly, I’m very sad as the Roux family has raised the profile of fine dining restaurants in the UK and done so much to improve the reputation of the UK restaurants as a culinary powerhouse. Le Gavroche will be sadly missed.
However, Michel Roux cited a better work-life balance as the main reason for the closure. I can emphasise with his decision running a business is stressful & time-consuming. I can only imagine the pressure of a 2 Michelin-star restaurant, especially this restaurant. At the age of 63, Michel has made the correct decision. He will focus on his other business interests, including being a regular on our TV screens. I wish him well.
L’Atelier Robuchon
One door closes, and another opens. That’s Mayfair for you. Joel Robuchon’s classic French restaurant is to relaunch in Mayfair. Andrea Cofini will be the head chef. It will open in the Autumn, 6 Clarges Street, Mayfair, W1J 8AE.
Row on 5
Jason’s Athertons Row on 5 is described as a “flagship” restaurant over two floors in a new building on Savile Row in Mayfair – just a short walk from Pollen Street Social, his flagship since it opened to widespread acclaim in 2011. Address 5 Saville Row
Dovetale
The 1 Hotel Mayfair flagship is a masterclass in modern British cookery. Dovetale embraces the zero-waste concept of the hotel, focusing on outstanding produce and a bit of tableside theatre. Executive Head Chef in Tom Sellers.
Coming up
Our review of Japanese restaurant Ginza St James. We were lucky to be taken on a culinary journey through Japan, along with drink pairings for each dish. The review will be published next week.
As mentioned above, our first “wines of the month” feature wines selected by Sherry at Hedonism. Again, this will be out in the next few days.
An interview with Erik Lorincz, owner & founder of award-winning bar Kwant (pronounced quaint), which recently opened in its new home on Stratton Street. Kwant was previously listed in “The Best 50 Bars in the World” at its previous Heddon Street home.
I’m very much looking forward to eating & reviewing Tendril at their new permanent home in Princes Street, W1B 2LQ; fingers crossed, we are planning an interview with Chef & founder Rishim Sachdeva.
That’s about it for this time. As always, I have a busy, fun time ahead, including a few days in Maderia. I’ve already planned a few restaurant visits, including a re-visit to a fish restaurant serving the most amazing seafood platter.
Any comments or ideas on features or articles you would like to see? I love to receive your feedback, please feel free to recommend this newsletter to your family & friends. We have room in this restaurant for many more guests😀
Latest News Published 1st August 2023
The Berkeley, perfectly nestled between bustling Knightsbridge and leafy Belgravia, will open its rooftop – usually reserved for staying guests – to all for the rest of the Summer with a brand new bar. The Berkeley Rooftop Bar will open for evenings, offering the ultimate alfresco destination for Londoners to soak up sweeping sunset views over Hyde Park, whilst sitting by the glistening pool. Unrivalled views of London’s skyline will be complemented with a menu of refreshing spritz’ and Mediterranean small plates.
Pavyllon
Pavyllon opened earlier this month at the Four Seasons Hotel in Park Lane, Yannick Alleno is one of the most decorated chefs with 15 Michelin stars across his stable of and heads up global restaurants & for the first time, opens in London.
With such a pedigree, expect the food to be very agreeable but the bill not so. The cuisine is artistically described as a British expression of French dining. Looking at the menu, it basically is whatever Yannick fancied to put on the menu with dishes from France, Italy and maybe a nod to the UK.
Il Gattopardo
Due to opening in September, Il Gattopardo comes from the same restaurant group that brought us Zuma, Poka & Bar De Pres. The Executive Chef is Massiomo Pasquarelli, who’s previously worked with Alain Decasse and comes via Ritz Carlton Singapore. We are told 1960s Italy inspires Italian cuisine, so pasta, I’m guessing!
We are also told the restaurant will have a hidden courtyard with a retractable roof. Judging by the weather in August, this is a very smart move.
Address 27 Albermarle Street, Mayfair W1S 4HZ
Mayfair Chippy
Afternoon Sea Week 7th-13th August
A traditional Afternoon Tea is associated with finger sandwiches, scones, pastries and cakes. However, The Mayfair Chippy, an award-winning, 1AA Rosette, Michelin Guide, quintessentially British restaurant located in the heart of Mayfair, has put its own special twist on the traditional offering. Afternoon Sea, a tower of incredible seafood for those looking for something a little more adventurous this Afternoon Tea Week.
Guests can feast on some of the freshest seafood in London. Tuck into the chilled seafood platter with Cornish crab on toast, Severn & Wye smoked salmon, pickled cockles, dressed Cornish crab, Atlantic crab claws, King prawns with Maldon rock oysters, and cooked mussels.
.To book visit: www.mayfairchippy.com
The Afternoon Sea is priced at £38.00 per person with a booking for two people minimum and must be pre-booked.
Take a look at our review of the Mayfair Chippy.
Tendril
We mentioned in a previous newsletter that Tendril has a new permanent home & I can now confirm they opened the doors last week. We wish Rishim & the team good luck. You can find Tendril, 5 Princess Street, W1B 2LQ.
St Mary’s Gate
Many thanks to everybody enquiring about my friend’s pub St Mary’s Gate Inn in Arundel West Sussex, a quick update for you.
For those who don’t know, a dear friend has taken over “The Gate” and, as we speak & has just completed six months at the pub.
A quick update: Despite the challenges of running any new business, the Pub is going from strength to strength. Scott, Sam (the manager), & the team have put in so much hard work. They have transformed the decor inside & out, created a fantastic food menu focusing on using local Sussex suppliers, and are renovating the guest bedrooms.
The locals have responded & the food sales are booming. Also, previously, the pub hardly sold any wine & now wine sales form a big part of the drink sales. Something that the team knew would happen if they provided good food.
If you are in that part of the world, could you pop in and say hello? They would love to see you.
Address: St Mary’s Gate Inn, London Rd, Arundel BN18 9BA
Coming Up
Lots planned for the next few months, and dare I mention the “C” word, I need to plan content for the end-of-year festivities. My plans for the next few months are plenty of restaurant visits, I’m eating at Sketch Gallery restaurant tomorrow & next week at Ginza St James. I have been looking forward to visiting both restaurants for a long time & so looking forward to reporting back.
Plenty of new articles planned; I’m finishing a piece on “Best Cocktails in Mayfair”; it’s been a lot of fun to write.
I want to include more recipes, and I’ve been so busy with other articles that I’ve neglected the recipes section. However, I’m adding my recent interpretation of my risotto at Hush this week I think you might like it.
I’m planning to start running competitions with amazing prizes, I will restrict these to my subscribers & Instagram followers. It would be much appreciated if you could follow me on @themayfairfoodie. Watch this space first comp to be announced soon.
Finally, I plan to announce some exciting news about a new collaboration for the website, a new monthly column. I’m sorry I can’t say more now, but you will know first.
Latest News Published 5th July 2023
Since our last newsletter, there have been many new subscribers, so big “Hello” to you all.
We have published a few new articles recently. Here is a quick recap.
One highlight recently was a visit to the UK‘s oldest Indian restaurant Veeraswamy. This Michelin-starred restaurant is 97 years young, all this time based in its Regent Street home. The menu is a delightful mix of classic Indian dishes using top local British produce, all beautifully presented. The pictures alone are worth a view.
There is a fascinating article with General Manager Samual Bernard of Langan’s; amongst other topics, we discussed the renovations of the “new” Langans, including two new stunning bar areas and private dining & I was keen to find out more about how this Iconic restaurant has changed since the new owners took over in 2021.
We have two informative articles on Restaurants on Mount Steet & North Audley Street; if you consider venturing into Mayfair anytime soon, these are worth reading as they unearth some hidden gems.
I had a fantastic week away visiting family in Chicago & Milwaukee. While there, we visited some lovely independent restaurants & Milwaukee also has a fantastic food market. It felt like a mini Borough Market and was the focal point for the locals.
On Friday, I interviewed third-generation sushi Chef Taiji Maruyama, co-owner & head Chef Maru. The Shepherd Market restaurant is open evenings only.
On Tuesday, Silent Pools invited me to a Gin Aroma Masterclass at Hush restaurant. We learned how to use Botanics to create different Gin flavours. At the end of the Masterclass, we made a gin aroma using Botanics. Mine was described as “spicy” by our tutor. Let’s say she was very encouraging to the novice Gin mixers.
I was back at Hush in their silent garden on Thursday lunchtime for lunch. You can soon read more about the masterclass & lunch at Hush on the website soon.
Latest News
Barley Mow
The Barley Mow won the best pub in London and the Pub Chef of the Year at the National Pub and Bar Awards. What a fantastic achievement because the pub has only been open for about nine months. We featured an interview with George a few months ago.
The pub is teaming up with the Kricket Indian Restaurant to bring you are Mayfair Curry feast on the 12th of July. It would be an excellent time to experience this award-winning pub.
Masala Zone
Masala Zone has opened their new 180-seat restaurant on the site of the Criterion restaurant in Piccadilly. They have a 25% discount opening offer, valid until July 16th. I’ve not been there yet but have it on good authority that the restaurant is stunning.
Langans
Langans now offer a Pre & Post-Theatre Prix Fixe Set Menu for £30 for two courses or £35 for three courses.
Noble Rot
Noble Rot, the recent addition to Shepherd Market’s restaurant scene, offers a daily summer lunch menu, two courses for £22 or three courses for £26. The set lunch is available in the restaurant or the downstairs wine bar.
Hush & Silent Pool Gin
Hush & Silent Pool Gin announced the opening of their new secret garden at the Mayfair Restaurant. The idyllic courtyard is a great place to enjoy food & drinks this summer. The courtyard brings the taste of the Surrey countryside retreat away from the hustle & bustle of London.
They have launched a range of “Silent pool” based cocktails to celebrate. I tried (all in the name of research) the White Peach Negroni & the Hedgerow Sour during my recent visits to Hush. There are six silent pool cocktails on the menu, so there are a few more to research.
Haugen
Haugen has partnered with Aperol to create a stunning rooftop bar. Housed in a striking wooden Chalet-style structure, Haugen has partnered exclusively with the hugely popular Italian bitter apéritif, Aperol, to take over their iconic rooftop and create a brand new, tantalising cocktail menu; creating the ideal spot for guests to enjoy a tipple or two this summer.
The rooftop bar will be hard to miss as the rooftop bar is decorated in Aperol’s distinctive orange.
Since our last newsletter, there have been many new subscribers, so big “Hello” to you all.
We have published a few new articles recently. Here is a quick recap.
One highlight recently was a visit to the UK‘s oldest Indian restaurant Veeraswamy. This Michelin-starred restaurant is 97 years young, all this time based in its Regent Street home. The menu is a delightful mix of classic Indian dishes using top local British produce, all beautifully presented. The pictures alone are worth a view.
There is a fascinating article with General Manager Samual Bernard of Langan’s; amongst other topics, we discussed the renovations of the “new” Langans, including two new stunning bar areas and private dining & I was keen to find out more about how this Iconic restaurant has changed since the new owners took over in 2021.
We have two informative articles on Restaurants on Mount Steet & North Audley Street; if you consider venturing into Mayfair anytime soon, these are worth reading as they unearth some hidden gems.
I had a fantastic week away visiting family in Chicago & Milwaukee. While there, we visited some lovely independent restaurants & Milwaukee also has a fantastic food market. It felt like a mini Borough Market and was the focal point for the locals.
On Friday, I interviewed third-generation sushi Chef Taiji Maruyama, co-owner & head Chef Maru. The Shepherd Market restaurant is open evenings.
On Tuesday, Silent Pools invited me to a Gin Aroma Masterclass at Hush restaurant. We learned how to use Botanics to create different Gin flavours. At the end of the Masterclass, we made a gin aroma using Botanics. Mine was described as “spicy” by our tutor. Let’s say she was very encouraging to the novice Gin mixers.
I was back at Hush in their silent garden on Thursday lunchtime for lunch. You can soon read more about the masterclass & lunch at Hush on the website soon.
Latest News
Barley Mow
The Barley Mow won the best pub in London and the Pub Chef of the Year at the National Pub and Bar Awards. What a fantastic achievement because the pub has only been open for about nine months. We featured an interview with George a few months ago.
The pub is teaming up with the Kricket Indian Restaurant to bring you are Mayfair Curry feast on the 12th of July. It would be an excellent time to experience this award-winning pub.
Masala Zone
Masala Zone has opened their new 180-seat restaurant on the site of the Criterion restaurant in Piccadilly. They have a 25% discount opening offer, valid until July 16th. I’ve not been there yet have it on good authority that the restaurant is stunning.
Langans
Langans now offer a Pre & Post-Theatre Prix Fixe Set Menu for £30 for two courses or £35 for three courses.
Noble Rot
Noble Rot, the recent addition to Shepherd Market’s restaurant scene, offers a daily summer lunch menu, two courses for £22 or three courses for £26. The set lunch is available in the restaurant or the downstairs wine bar.
Hush & Silent Pool Gin
Hush & Silent Pool Gin announced the opening of their new secret garden at the Mayfair Restaurant. The idyllic courtyard is a great place to enjoy food & drinks this summer. The courtyard brings the taste of the Surrey countryside retreat away from the hustle & bustle of London.
They have launched a range of “Silent pool” based cocktails to celebrate. I tried (all in the name of research) the White Peach Negroni & the Hedgerow Sour during my recent visits to Hush. There are six silent pool cocktails on the menu, so there are a few more to research.
Haugen
Haugen has partnered with Aperol to create a stunning rooftop bar. Housed in a striking wooden Chalet-style structure, Haugen has partnered exclusively with the hugely popular Italian bitter apéritif, Aperol, to take over their iconic rooftop and create a brand new, tantalising cocktail menu; creating the ideal spot for guests to enjoy a tipple or two this summer.
The rooftop bar will be hard to miss as the rooftop bar is decorated in Aperol’s distinctive orange.
Latest News Published 6th June 2023
Tendril
Renowned vegan chef Rishim Sachdeva has announced he will launch a permanent restaurant site for his Tendril (mostly) vegan brand at 5 Princes St, just off Regent Street, this summer. The new permanent restaurant home for the plant-first Tendril concept is part of The Crown Estate’s London portfolio, where Rishim has hosted a successful pop-up restaurant since June 2022. The news follows a successful crowdfund bid via the Seedrs platform in order to secure a long-term central London bricks and mortar site for the popular brand. Rishim will close the site in June to undergo a major refurbishment of the space before re-launching as ‘Tendril (mostly) Vegan Kitchen & Bar’ later this summer.
We are pleased to announce that we will interview Rishim in a few weeks.
Chef Rishim Sachdeva
Gymkhana
Gymkhana has launched its own range of curry sauces & chutneys, giving us a chance to create Michelin-starred restaurant dishes at home.
Hush
Hush has opened their lovely refurbed courtyard in time for the summer. I will be checking the new courtyard layout later this month.
The Barley Mow
The Barley Mow now offers what they call a workers lunch for £15 ( I don’t think you have to prove that you have been working-Haha). There’s a different classic dish every day. Classics include the house Shepherds Pie, Grilled Middle White Sausages served with Mash, spring greens & gravy, Slow roasted Chicken, white bean & pancetta.
Pollen Street Social
Jason Atherton has recently cut prices across his chain of restaurants, stating that he wanted to make eating at his restaurants more affordable. His flagship Michelin-starred Pollen Street Social now offers set lunch for £49.50, reduced from £75
May Fair Bar
The May Fair bar offers a cocktail masterclass every other Saturday from 3 pm-5 pm. I’m told you are given cocktail-making lessons from their expert mixologist as well as the opportunity to drink your creations. Sounds like the perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon
New Features this Month
Review of the Mayfair Chippy, poshest fish & chips in town
Hedonism, we are shown around the best wine & spirits store in the world
We explore how to eat well without breaking the bank in Mayfair
Latest News Published 12th May 2023
New Restaurants
Sheesh opened recently on the corner of Piccadilly & Dover Street. They have spent a small fortune on the renovations & the restaurant looks exactly what you would expect, considering the popularity of the first Sheesh in Chingford, famous as a celebrity haunt serving fantastic kebabs & grills. I did ask for an interview, but they refused my first & only refusal.
Socca -The collaboration between Two Michelin-starred Chef Claude Bosi (Bibendum )and restauranteur Samyuta Nair (Jamavar 1 Michelin Star) is an interesting one; the cuisine is French Mediterranean bistro playing homage to the coastal towns & flavours of the Riviera( I did copy the last sentence from their website-Ha-ha)
It seems a strange collaboration, but I’m hoping to review Jamavar soon, so hopefully, we can find out a little more about Socca at the same time.
Qwant (pronounced quaint) is led by the former head of The Savoy’s American Bar, Erik Lorincz. Is an award-winning bar relocated to Stratton Street from its former home in Heddon Street? Once an entry, “Best bar in the World“, I can’t wait to see “Qwant” open its doors in its new home.
St Mary’s Gate Inn
Please forgive me here, but I want to give a quick plug & recommendation. One of my dear friends, Scott Wilson, recently took over a pub in Arundel, West Sussex, called St Mary’s Gate Inn.
The pub is a lovely traditional pub located next door to the cathedral & 5 minutes from Arundel Castle.
Scott (affectionally known as Willo) & manager Sam has worked wonders in a few months in setting up a new pub menu, with the ethos based on using quality Sussex-based food suppliers. Cheese, eggs, meat, bread & even the Biltong come from Sussex suppliers & enhanced with great beer from Dorset-based brewers Hall & Woodhouse.
I’ve been lucky enough to be involved in sitting in on supplier meetings, and also I put together the n wine list, all of which has been great fun for me.
If you are in the area, please pop in, I can guarantee you will receive a warm welcome. The pub does have 5 rooms available at a very reasonable £85 per night; they are very popular, so do try to book well in advance.
New Features this Month
Review of Maddox Tavern, New York style in Mayfair
Best Coffee in Mayfair, our guide to the best coffee shops
5 star hotels n Mayfair, Mayfair has some of the best hotels in the world
