SW Eats: Queenswood Battersea

Photo @SWfashion_

Every now and again, a restaurant comes along that truly has it all. Scrumptious food, clever cocktails, a relaxed atmosphere – some dinner spots simply tick all the boxes and the latest addition to my list comes with the added bonus of being just around the corner. Five stars to Queenswood!

Set up by those behind Soho's popular Damson & Co, Queenswood is a neighbourhood restaurant so good, you may be tempted to move closer. Located in Battersea Square, it's a pocket of continental loveliness moments from Clapham Junction station; go on a warm summer's evening and you'll soon feel the charm, watching the sun set with a glass of rosé in hand, surrounded by really-really-ridiculously-good-looking locals.

5 reasons to stay at Solage

Image by Solage

Those of you who follow me on Instagram will probably have seen my recent holiday spam. A couple of weeks ago went on a family trip to California where we stayed in Solage, an eco-friendly  resort on the outskirts of Calistoga.

There are a few resorts in the world that I can't recommend enough and Solage deserves a top spot on the list. Why? Let me count the ways...

The Chic List

Image from Skandilicious

From Monday morning cosies to tempt you out of bed through to warm-and-fuzzy Friday night funsies, here are a few of my favourite things for the week ahead.

Wine a Bit

I must admit that I am hardly a wine expert, but I do have a heartfelt appreciation for the stuff, particularly that fancy one with the bubbles. My parents have always been very interested in wine, and they have instilled this in me from a young age. I am far from a wine snob, but I have vino running through my veins (not from excessive consumption, I might add).

Naturally, my first taste of red wine went something like this. Ten years down the line I am texting my dad to tell him that I actually like red. His response? "Great. How much is that going to cost me?".

In my view, wine is about relaxing and unwinding, and there is something joyous about a glass of crisp white in the summer sunshine. On that note, London Wine Week kicks off tomorrow, the capital's first celebration of wines from the world over.

At the heart of LWW is the pop-up Riedel Hub on the first floor of Kingly Court which will be home to all manner of tasting flights and events during the course of the week. It will also be serving as a rather charming city centre wine bar with an extensive selection of wine by the Riedel glass. The hub is also one of the collection points for the LWW wristband, which offers discounted wines at partnering venues across the city, detailed here.

So whether you are a budding sommelier, or simply like a glass now and again, there is certain to be something to your tastes. Here are my picks for the week:

Riedel Hub, 1st floor Kingly Court; Monday-Saturday 12PM – 9PM; Sunday 12PM – 5PM.
Buy your London Wine Week band here.
A full list of London Wine Week events can be found here.

City Shakers

image from Pinterest here

As you all probably know I was born and raised in Edinburgh. Though my heart lies in London and I dream daily of New York, Edinburgh shall always be my home.

After all, home is where the dog is, and Harvey currently resides in his Morningside manor.

While I often moan about missing London, I really do take Edinburgh for granted, and never does this feel more apparent than during the Edinburgh Festival. From August 2nd to 26th, Edinburgh transforms into a hub of hipster activity with elaborate shows, vibrant pop-up restaurants and chic exhibitions. By jove, it almost feels like London!

The Royal Mile is constantly abuzz and restaurant reservations are dreadfully hard to come by, celebrities and style-conscious sorts flood to the city and our dubious nightclubs open their doors 'til the wee small hours (Hive, anyone?).

Yes, London has it's Notting Hill Carnival this weekend but puh-lease, this is the last weekend of the Fringe so let us cheers to that and check out some of Edinburgh's chicest cocktail movers and shakers.



WHERE? Juniper at Twenty Princes Street

WHAT? This slick new bar on Edinburgh's most lively shopping street is a must-see for visitors and a stylish new haunt for locals. Offering stellar views of the skyline, Juniper proposes a wealth of scrumptious cocktails and cool street-food inspired bites to tantalise the tastebuds.

WHO? As Juniper is recently opened, many have yet to discover it. It is a great place for stylish city girls and boys to clink glasses on a special occasion, just as it is a seriously cool spot for girly cocktails on a Saturday night.

WHAT'S THEIR POISON? As the name suggests, this bar focuses on gin ( à la Carom in London's Soho) and their house cocktail marries Caorunn Gin with sharp notes of Belvedere Citron and cloudy apple and a sweet kiss of almond syrup and kiwi fruit. For the traditionalist they also offer a glorious G&T with Caoronn and Fentimans served with a swish apple fan. If you are feeling adventurous they have many quirky cocktails to choose from, some infused with smokey bacon foam (the intriguing Full Scottish Breakfast) through to those based on iconic ice lollies (the Twister is a must for nostalgic 90s kids)

WHAT TO ORDER? Start off with the Juniper then up the ante with the Gimlet.

FIND OUT MORE... 



WHERE? Aperol Spritz Garden at the Famous Spiegeltent at the Assembly Rooms Fringe

WHAT? A hit last year, the Aperol Spritz Garden is the ultimate place to take in the vibrant atmosphere of central Edinburgh. A chilled but lively spot, the uplifting orange-themed garden offers cool locals a taste of the ultra elegant Italian lifestyle.

WHO? The Aperol Spritz garden is constantly abuzz with everyone from ladies recharging their batteries after a shop on Multrees Walk through to well dressed guys relaxing after work listening to an acoustic set. It's a casual but elegant stop and, lest we forget, all the bar staff are really really ridiculously good looking.

WHAT'S THEIR POISON? Silly question: tis the Aperol Spritz, of course. The drink, served over ice in a large wine glass, bears an uncanny resemblance to Irn Bru, but don't let that put you off. It is a classic aperitif in Italy, bringing together sharp Aperol with delicately sweet prosecco and lashings of cool soda water. It is seriously refreshing and the great drink to ease you into a night of re-toxing.

WHAT TO ORDER? Don't be shy and ask that handsome barman for an Aperol Spritz.

FIND OUT MORE...

image from this great blog post

WHERE? Lucky Liquor Co at 39a Queen Street

WHAT? Unless you are living under a rock, I am sure you will have heard of the Edinburgh institution Bramble. A cocktail bar that never fails to impress, Bramble is a notorious speakeasy with luxurious cocktails from the city's most experimental mixologists. It is Edinburgh's worst kept secret. Thankfully this year, the gentlemen behind Bramble have broadened their reach in opening yet another sexy cocktail spot- the intriguing Lucky Liquor Co on Queen Street.

WHO? Bigger and brighter than Bramble, Lucky Liquor Co has a minimal, slightly retro interior that reminds me of the Bourne and Hollingsworth in Soho. With specials scrawled on white tiles in black markers this is an understated but fashionable bar that does not take itself too seriously. The cool-kid crowd certainly reflects this.

WHAT'S THEIR POISON? Lucky Liquor is unique in offering a cocktail menu which changes seasonally, keeping the talented bar staff on their toes. You can be sure, though, that the evolving menu of 13 cocktails will break conventions and tap into culinary trends.

WHAT TO ORDER? A good shout is to ask the barman for a recommendation- they know best, after all.

FIND OUT MORE... 



WHERE? The Pommery Bar and Cafe at the Signet Library

WHAT? A stylish Edinburgh festival institution, the Pommery bar and cafe is a great place to go for a chilled glass of champagne to celebrate, or commiserate, the end of the festival. In a glamourous and grand venue, usually reserved only for private events, the Pommery bar is a high-end spot with oodles of sophistication.

WHO? People of all ages flock to the Pommery Bar for everything from tea and cake through to delicious lobsters and obligatory Champagne.

WHAT'S THEIR POISON? Champagne, darling- keep it classy.

WHAT TO ORDER? I'll have a glass of Brut Rose, please (£12)

FIND OUT MORE...

Birthday Cake, Cocktails and Comfort Food: The Drift Bar

Last night I celebrated my 19th birthday with some of my absolutely lovely London chums. It feels like just yesterday that I FINALLY turned 18, but now i'm over the hill... One step closer to being 19, The Sequel.

Like, a proper grown up.

To celebrate my birthday, I had initially planned to head to Ping! in Earls Court, but unfortunately it was full booked. Struggling to think of somewhere new and exciting to try, my lovely flatmate Harriet (of Rsplndnt and Discover and Escape) told me about this gorgeous little bar in The Heron Tower called The Drift Bar.

Harriet is turning 21 next week, and the lucky ducky is being treated to a celebratory meal at Duck and Waffle, also housed in The Heron Tower (nearest station: Liverpool Street). Anyway, while doing a touch of menu-research she spotted The Drift Bar and told me about their broad menu and, most importantly, their Skinny cocktails. As you can imagine, I was sold.

The restaurant is charming and relaxed with a constantly buzzing atmosphere, even on a bitterly chilly Tuesday night. It is full of slick City sorts and bright young things looking to have a good time without blowing the budget. 

This contemporary but cosy place is a lovely refuge from this vicious January cold, and the perfect way to really indulge. 

I am a stickler for a lovely, sweet cocktail, but i'm less fond of the inevitable calories. The Drift Bar, thankfully, offer a selection of lower-calorie cocktails ranging from the sweet but tangy Skinny Porn Star (my choice) to the Skinny Mojito. C'est magnifique!

The Princess Sparkles cocktail is a popular choice at the venue, and my reliable sources have informed me that it is, indeed, delicious. 

Another little touch at The Drift Bar is that each table is scattered with little Oyster card holders- perfect for poor little souls who have lost their Oyster card holders (moi.) I scooped up a couple, but don't tell anyone... The card holders also include a little info about the Slim or Sin offer for this month which is just fab. For £10 you can go Slim with a skinny, no-carb burger with low-cal wine or you can be naughty and Sin with a hefty, hearty burger washed down with a bottle of beer.  

The cocktails are pretty reasonably priced, cheap by London standards, but I must admit that I spent nearly as much on drinks as I did on food... So be careful! The delicious cocktails range from around £6.95 to £9.95, so great for relaxing at the weekend. 

The service was great- efficient but not rushed- and our waiter was lovely and friendly which always makes the occasion that teensy bit more special. It's a great way to spend an evening as you have time to actually enjoy your meal, rather than having it thrust upon you only to be ushered out at 9.00PM.

 (Wahaca, I love you, but please let me take off my jacket before delivering my churros and bill.)

The menu boasts a number of delightful smaller plates for sharing. From duck and hoisin pancakes through to crispy fried prawn lollipops and hearty, warming soup. I suggest you get three or four to share if there is a larger group of you. 

I'm a total squid fanatic, so I was excited to try The Drift's offering, but was slightly disappointed. The crispy squid was tender and the dipping sauce nice and hot, but the squid itself lacked seasoning and spice. I am not sure i'd order it again. It's not in the London Squid Edit 2013 (coming your way soon... not really though.)

If you can't overindulge on your birthday, when can you eh? Though every detoxing bone in my body was urging me to plump for a naked salad, the duck and hoisin flatbread was calling me, and I think I made the right choice. It was really more of a pizza and i'd be lying if I said I ate it all... It was HUGE. Unless you are really hank marvin, I would suggest sharing a flatbread if you can- or perhaps ask to take it away in a doggy bag if you can muster up the courage to ask for one! It was fantastic value for money though at £9.95 and is the perfect comfort food in this weather. I'd been craving duck for a while and this meaty concoction with a sweet, sticky sauce was just the ticket. 

They offer a number of main dishes, sharing boards, flatbreads, burgers and sandwiches so there really is something for everyone and I guarantee that you will NOT leave without a food baby. I was carrying twins. 

The lovely Nicole (of Pink Flamingo Kisses) opted for a duck club sandwich (bitchez love duck) on fruit bread which she thoroughly enjoyed, though couldn't eat it quite as elegantly as she might have hoped. 

The puddings are ridiculously naughty, but delicious all the same. At least the salted caramel and roasted plum sundae has no calories...

As it was my birthday treat, I was offered a complimentary brownie, which I had to pass on after, you know, eating a duck. I tried to swap it for a cheeky cocktail but that was not possible, sadly, so I bought myself another.

It's my birthday and i'll get drunk if I want to. 

My favourite treat of the entire meal had to be this Skinny Rose Martini which was delectably sweet. It was strong, but syrupy and rosy, it tasted like a Laduree macaroon- absolutely beautiful! 

I must admit that it did go to my head a little bit, but thank goodness for that as it provided me with the ultimate defence from the biting wind on the way home: the cosy coat of vodka. 

My sweetie pie flatmates made me a lovely Red Velvet cake (with half fat philly- coz they are cute!) and to round off my lovely evening I blew out my candles and made a wish.

What did I wish for? That'd be telling...

GOSLING. 

The ANTI-DETOX

A gorgeous burger at the delectable Hotel Condes de Barcelona - perhaps my proudest culinary moment of 2012!

This first week of January is always a bit of a blur... Discounted sofas, cheap Christmas decorations and more sales than you can shake a candy cane at, it's a pretty bizarre time.

In addition, early January is also the only time of year when we are urged to watch our waistlines more than usual. And this is really quite a feat for a woman living in Britain in this day and age.

Each year I never cease to be amazed by how many ridiculous diets we are fed: the cleanses, the detoxes and, even more worryingly, the fasts. 

As much as i'm a firm believer that a new year offers a new start, I am also a believer that you should actually enjoy yourself! Why deprive your body of lovely food, great nights out and pleasurable activities just because your weekly glossy says so?..

 Life is for living, after all.

In all honesty, I can think of far more reasons NOT to detox than I can to detox, and these are detailed below. As much as I will be trying to get fit this year (see here), this is purely for my own health rather than aesthetic reasons, so in addition to my ever-so-slightly depressing fit-spiration, this blog post shall act as my FUN-spiration. 

After all, I shall be damned if I spend another day of my life beating myself up for eating a box of choccies or crying over a bowl of pasta (yes, that did actually happen)

1. I don't know whether you can read this Paperchase card (£2.75) but it has two pictures of otters with the simple words "My Significant Otter"... Anyone who knows me will understand my appreciation of this.

2. Mm mm mm! These passionate La Maison du Chocolat chocolates, available just in time for Valentines Day 2013, are the perfect incentive to stay well away from the detox. Kate Moss once said "nothing tastes as good as skinny feels" but I implore her to try some of these divine new chocolates and stand by her word? With delights such as aromatic pepper vanilla and smoky woody caramel, these romantic chocolates could tempt even a saint.

3. All together now- aaaaw. This "You're So Sweet" card from Paperchase is just that- ridiculously sweet! (£2.50)

4. And what lady can be without her champagne, really? A diet or detox that deprives a woman of such is just terrible. This divine Brut Rose edition from Nicolas Feuilallatte is just the ticket! (£30 for 75cl from John Lewis) 

1. This Sakura Scrub from Rituals is perfect for boosting circulation and thus reducing cellulite. It also smells and feels absolutely delectable. With a delicate cherry blossom aroma, this soft scrub is a treat to use! (£14.50)

2. Supposedly this Sit Tight body-firming serum from Soap and Glory works a charm. I am extremely keen to try it, but if any of you guys have please do give me your thoughts! (£16.50)

3. I use this NIP+FAB Upper Arm Fix religiously and made my way through two bottles in 2012 - I genuinely do think that this caffeine rich gel firms up my arms a treat, without having to slave away on bicep curls or whatever those made gym bunnies call 'em. It is also a bit of snip at £12.95, and it also has a zesty citrus scent.

4. I am dying to try out the Bliss FatGirlSlim treatment regime- it must be iconic for a reason, surely! It is £30 for these minis- if you've tried FGS, please do comment or email me with your thoughts.
 

I feel like a big, fat AMEN is in order for this one! The DKNY S/S 2013 collection was full of relaxed denim (image from Catwalking) and you can shop Topshop's fabulous £42 slim boyfriend jeans here. 

1. The best detox? Drink plenty and plenty of water! My new years resolution (well, one of them) is to do so and I have already noticed my skin to be that little bit clearer. I also have a little tip for curing a hangover before it even begins... No matter how sleepy you may feel, drink a pint of water before bed and all those nasty toxins will be diluted. Quench your thirst in style with this rather lovely DVF Edition of Evian from Harvey Nichols (£3.95)

2. If you are really serious about cleansing your body, green tea is a good place to start. This Organic Matcha from Teapigs is an award winning "super tea" which is absolutely swimming in anti-oxidants that your body will certainly thank you for. It isn't the cheapest at £24.95, but i've head some great things about this pure, fine blend.

3. If you want to pack in plenty of protein and fibre, check out the Bodyism cleanses at Space NK. They aren't exactly cheap (this Ultimate Cleanse chap will set you back £45) but they promise all sorts of treats for  your body from anti-ageing through to weight loss.  

Cheers To That!

What girl doesn't love a cocktail? I am only just back in Edinburgh and I am already planning post Christmas cocktails at the Harvey Nicks bar with one of my most fabulous partners in crime.

In the meantime, though, I shall need to quench my thirst with some homemade treats... Be they shaken, or stirred.

With a crate of gorgeously indulgent Rekorderlig winter cider sitting cosy in my flat, I was rather excited to receive an email from the lovely team at Rekorderlig giving me the recipes for their delicious cocktails from The Winter Bar (see my post on the cool event in the Old Truman Brewery here)

So, as it's Christmas and all, I thought i'd share them with you! 

This little beauty is refreshing with a little kick. 

This one was my pick- sweet but spicy, boozy but fruity and the perfect drink to get you just on the right side of merry this Christmas. 

I love a mojito, I do, and this one sounds truly marvellous- like a jolly festive mojito!

For those who like their drinks zingy and tangy, this one is for you. Who doesn't love gin? Not me...

Last but not least, I bring you a hug in a glass. This is, perhaps, better than hug. Warm, spicy cider with a little sour bite- this tastes just like a big slice of apple pie. 

Cheers to that! 

Champagne Toasting, Chestnuts Roasting

TIS THE SEASON TO DRINK BOLLY!

... And Moet, of course!

I felt that with December in swing, i'd do a little Christmassy post to get you in the mood.

the lovely Christmas tree at Chelsea's favourite hotspot

I have to admit that I am not overly familiar with the Chelsea area, but at Christmas I do find that the Kings Road really does flourish, and the real jewel in the crown has to be The Bluebird.

A former garage, The Bluebird bar, shop and restaurant is a little bit of a Chelsea institution- and, for you MIC fiends, it is a permanent fixture on your screens.

is there anything quite so festive?

 
Having dropped by The Bluebird a couple of times over summer, I was rather excited when I received an invite to the launch party of their Winter Pop-Up bar, sponsored by Moet et Chandon.

These are dangerous words when you are as obsessed with the sparkly stuff as I am.

constant top-ups of Moet are dangerous- you have been warned

The charming Winter bar stands in front of the Bluebird bar and shop quite some way up the Kings Road, and is open from the 26th November through to the 3rd of January.

With twinkly fairy lights, candles and plenty of drinks to warm your cockles, this really is the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of exercising your credit card.

these little baby burgers were beyond delicious- perhaps my favourite canape, fabulously indulgent!

In London there really are some fantastic festive events going on, but it's the little details that set pop-up events like this apart- they even give you toasty red blankets when the evening turns particularly icy!

At the launch party I treated myself to far too many canapes including these tangy mini burgers, crispy whitebait, zingy prawn and avocado spoons and creamy mushroom croquettes, all washed down with far too many glasses of Moet. 

With chestnuts roasting on an open fire, a heated outdoor area and some lovely bar snacks on offer, I really would recommend The Bluebird for a little Christmas treat.

More details here!

Rekorderlig Winter Forest Bar!

The Bar at the Rekorderlig Winter Forest Bar

Me with the lovely Rachel of The Horseferry Girl  

In the woods of Brick Lane...

A cheeky little welcome platter featuring "samples" of a number of lovely Rekorderlig ciders and a croquette which went pretty darn fast...

Rekorderlig Winter Cider cocktails on the menu- absolutely bloomin' delicious and the £5 entry includes one cocktail as well as the tasting platter- scoreeee.

My friend Nicole of Pink Flamingo Kisses opted for the Apple Pie cocktail and was NOT disappointed... Despite having a stonking cold Nicole knocked back two. Steamboat.  

I think they call this cider face... I am wearing a Topshop sweater, Topshop jewellery and teeny weeny Topshop hotpants... Not wise in November really!

Nicole and Harriet of Resplendent and Discover & Escape shared a little Daim bar swiss roll topped with a little Raspberry Mango gellee (£3.50 for a number of little Swedish desserts, or £10 for a taster plate)

If you read my previous post about the Swedish House Makeover competition by cool Swedish cider brand Rekorderlig (read it here if you so desire) , you will be aware that I was popping down to the Rekorderlig winter forest pop-up bar tucked away on Brick Lane.

I thought i'd share some pictures from this lovely little bar with you guys, because if you have the time I strongly suggest you take a trip Eastward and visit! It's seriously worth it.

It really is one of the nicest events i've been invited to and, to quote HCB, 

"I wish there was a place like this open all the time."

Wise old owl she is.

It has been open since October 26th and sadly closes it's doors on the 6th of November, so act fast ladies and gents.

While tickets are sold out online, it is worth popping by as you can pay the £5 entry fee on the door. It really is worth it.

The ticket involves a Rekorderlig taster platter, a free cocktail (or two in my case... lucky devil) and an absolutely fabulous evening with great music.

The best part is that the Old Truman Brewery has been transformed into a magical Swedish forest lined with trees, leaves and wintry lighting. I had a wonderful time and would highly recommend popping down if you have a free night this weekend.

Thank you ever so much for having me Rekorderlig! Find out all the details on the Rekorderlig UK Facebook page. 

LFW Designer Cocktails

London Fashion Week is perhaps my favourite time of year. The atmosphere is truly electric and the talent on show is second to none.

Even if you are not one of the lucky ones clutching a handful of sought-after invitations for the SS13 shows, there will be plenty for you to get excited about when LFW comes around in just fifteen days!

The first little slice of LFW that I can't wait to share with you lovely readers is the London Fashion Week Designer cocktail selection at The May Fair Bar.

I am a little bit of a cocktail obsessive and love nothing more than a delicious concoction to sip on while on a night out. Give me a tangy, sweet cocktail and i'm a happy girl!

Imagine my excitement, then, when I caught a glimpse of these beautiful tipples, designed by some of London Fashion Week's most exciting fashion talent, all available at the May Fair hotel from the 6th to the 23rd of September.

I have, sadly, never been to the May Fair hotel, but I think this year I will certainly be paying a visit. The luxurious and stylish establishment is the official hotel of London Fashion Week (so is a good bet for some style stalking!) and their designer cocktails are just the cherry on top of some fabulous fashion week treats they have in store. Alongside hosting elite parties every night during LFW, The May Fair are also offering their Fashion Week Treats package which includes an overnight stay, breakfast, discounted beauty treatments and cocktails and cupcakes for two! If anybody wants to treat me this month, look no further. The decadent May Fair Spa has also created some express beauty treatments to revitalise those stressed-out fashion folk.

If you are simply looking for a stylish aftershow drink, you really will not beat these delightful drinkies (above). And at £13 each these cocktails are an accessible taste of Fashion Week's finest designers.

Hopefully i'll see you guys there, i'll be sipping the fruity Corrie Neilson!

For more info visit the May Fair Website or follow them on Twitter at @themayfairhotel