Food & Drink - House Of Coco Magazine

Chef's Table November 9, 2023

30 under 30 Chefs That Need To Be On Your Radar

With twenty-one new one-star restaurants gaining an entry into the Michelin Guide UK & Ireland 2019, along with three new two-star restaurants, #TeamCoco thought this was the ideal opportunity to look at the amazing 30 under 30 chefs that are producing some of the best food in the UK and Ireland right now.

From sensational sauces to perfect pastry, #TeamCoco rounds up the best 30 chefs under the age of 30 who need to be on your radar.

Tommy Banks, 29, Chef Patron – Black Swan/Roots

Tommy Banks’ talent is truly remarkable, not only was he awarded the title of Britain’s youngest Michelin-starred chef in 2013. He won his regional heat and subsequently got his dishes to the banquet in TV’s Great British Menu in 2016 and 2017. His debut solo restaurant the Michelin-starred Black Swan in Oldstead, Yorkshire was awarded The Best Restaurant in the UK 2018 by Food and Travel Magazine and the ‘Best Fine Dining Restaurant in the World’ by TripAdvisor in 2017.

Sam Ashton Booth, 29, Head Chef, Stem

Sam is head chef at Stem – a Mayfair-based restaurant under the tutelage of Mark Jarvis. He has previously worked at Anglo, Restaurant Story and Gidleigh Park but has also completed stages at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, Marcus Wareing at The Ledbury and Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester.

Josh Overington, 30, Chef Patron, Le Cochon Aveugle

Josh Overington trained in Paris working in several prestigious restaurants across Europe, before returning home to Yorkshire, aged 26 years old, to open his restaurant and bistro/wine bar, Le Cochon Aveugle and Cave du Cochon. Le Cochon Aveugle is a small stripped-back restaurant in the heart of York, serving a frequently changing tasting menu.

The contemporary European menu is rooted in classical French techniques and showcases the very best produce available to the kitchen on each day. Josh and his team prepare, cook and serve the blind-tasting menu from his open-plan kitchen, to offer casual fine dining with an emphasis on using high-quality ingredients from his carefully selected farmers and producers.

Louisa Ellis, 23, Private Chef

Despite her young age, Louisa Ellis is a force to be reckoned with. She has worked at the likes of Adam’s Restaurant and The Wilderness in Birmingham where worked her way up to become junior sous chef there before her appearance on MasterChef: The Professionals where she reached the final three. After working at the acclaimed two Michelin-starred Restaurant Sat Bains, she decided to go her own way and work as a private chef. Louisa is known for her skilful technique and her strong command of intense and creative flavours.

Damien Wager, 28, Edible Art Patisserie Ltd & Executive Pastry Chef of the Sleeping Bear Hotels Limited

Self-taught pastry chef, Damien Wager is the Executive Pastry Chef of the Sleeping Bear Hotels Limited and is also the owner of the Edible Art Patisserie. He was previously Head of Pastry at the Beechfield House near Bath which has 2 Rosettes in the AA Restaurant Guide.

Asimakis Chaniotis, 28, Head Chef, Pied a Terre

Asimakis Chaniotis is Head Chef at one of London’s longest-standing Michelin-starred restaurants Pied a Terre. After completing culinary school he spent three and a half years at one of the best restaurants in Athens and moved to London. Asimakis is also very passionate about sustainability and has made sure the kitchen operates a no-waste policy, even recycling food scraps to grow vegetables which are then used at the restaurant.

Ellis Barrie, 28, Co-Founder and Executive Chef, of The Marram Grass

Ellis runs The Marram Grass in Anglesey alongside his brother Liam and the brothers are taking the culinary world by storm. They were awarded the title of ‘Best Bistro/Brasserie of the Year’ at the Anglesey Tourism Awards and have since been included in the Waitrose Good Food Guide and have been awarded 2 AA Rosettes. Ellis took part in the Great British Menu again this year (representing the North West) and managed to take his dish to the banquet!

Fred Clapperton, 30, Head Chef, The Clock House

After joining Drakes as a demi chef de partie in 2012, Fred Clapperton quickly rose through the brigade to become the restaurant’s Head Chef after the departure of chef and mentor Steve Drake (who has just been awarded a Michelin Star for his Surrey-based restaurant Sorrel) Fred and his team at The Clock House currently hold both a Michelin Star and three AA rosettes. His culinary style is centered around great produce which is both seasonal and has a local provenance.

Luke Selby, 30, Head Chef, Hide Above

Luke has previously worked at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons and at Restaurant Gordon Ramsay before working with Ollie Dabbous at his eponymous restaurant before joining Ollie with his latest project – Hide at 85 Piccadilly which has recently been included in the latest Michelin Guide. Intriguingly, Hide has three separate levels – Hide Below, Hide Ground and Hide Above, so guests are going to be spoilt for choice.

Oliver Brearly, 29, Senior Sous Chef, The Ivy (Leeds)

Oliver has more than 10 years’ experience working in a host of restaurants across Yorkshire including Malmaison in Leeds, Hotel Chocolat’s Roast and Conch and has also worked as the Head Chef at Leeds’ Radisson Blu Hotel. He has recently joined The Ivy Victoria Quarter as Senior Sous Chef.

Dan Whittaker, 24, Executive Chef De Partie, Matt Healy x The Foundry

Dan is the Executive Chef De Partie for Leeds-based Matt Healy x The Foundry. He has been working in professional kitchens for eight years. One of his favourite things about working as a chef is the camaraderie of the kitchen and being able to develop new dishes. He particularly enjoys developing desserts and would love to own his patisserie one day!

Kelvin Tan, 30, Chef De Partie, Restaurant Sat Bains

With a degree from the University of Ireland, Kelvin Tan, 30, graduated from Shannon College of Hotel Management in 2012 before going on to spend his formative years at London’s Savoy and Gleneagles in Auchterarder, Perthshire. After periods at the Ritz in London and The Dysart in Petersham, he joined two-Michelin-starred Restaurant Sat Bains a year ago as a chef de partie. He made it to the regional finals of the 2018 Roux Scholarship earlier this year.

Ryan Darley, 25, Chef-Owner, Over There

Ryan was formerly the senior sous chef at Tommy Banks’s Black Swan at Oldstead but has recently opened ‘Over There’ which is his first solo restaurant. The eatery was a realisation of a childhood dream and is quite a family affair with many members of his family getting involved.

Jack Coghill, 18, Pastry Chef, The Black Pig and Oyster

Jack is a pastry chef from Scotland and is the youngest chef in our round-up. He works in The Black Pig and Oyster in Edinburgh. The restaurant is owned by Jack’s parents and serves classic Spanish food with one speciality being Iberian Black Pig and Oysters. Jack’s family lived in Madeira for some time which influenced the restaurants culinary style.

Jordon Bailey, 29, Head Chef, Aimsir at Cliff at Lyons

Cornwall-born chef Jordan Bailey is the Head Chef at Aimsir at Cliff at Lyons in Ireland. He was previously a key member of the team in Restaurant Sat Bains as well as working at renowned restaurants like Rosewarne Manor in Hayle and The Elephant in Torquay. He has also worked at the renowned Norwegian restaurant of chef Esben Holmboe Bang in Oslo.

Daniela Tucci, 21, Pastry Chef, The Art School Restaurant

Daniela was the first female winner of The North West Young Chef of the Year competition and is a talented pastry chef. She is also a two-time finalist in the National Young Chef of the Year.

Michael Carr, 26, Chef Patron, Restaurant 92

Michael is Chef Patron of his eatery – Restaurant 92 in Harrogate. He’s 26 years old and set it up three years ago having trained with the likes of Gordon Ramsay and Alyn Williams.

Ruth Hansom, 22, Head Chef, Luton Hoo Hotel & Spa

Ruth completed her Royal Academy of Culinary Arts apprenticeship whilst working at The Ritz and subsequently was awarded a series of fantastic accolades; including winning gold at the World Skills UK in 2012, reaching second place in Craft Guild of Chefs’ National Chef of the Year 2013 and winning the Master Chefs of Great Britain’s Young Chef of the Year in 2013 and 2014 and received a Graduate Award from Craft Guild. Ruth’s career reached new heights and national acclaim in 2018, when she received a £1million investment in BBC 2’s Million Pound Menu TV show.

Adam Handling, 30, Chef / Owner of Adam Handling Restaurant Group

Named as Chef of the Year in 2014, Adam Handling’s star continues on a meteoric rise. At just turned 30, he has been awarded a myriad of awards including Scottish Chef of the Year 2015, Newcomer Restaurant of the Year in the Food and Travel Reader Awards 2015, as well as the British Culinary Federation’s Chef of the Year 2014. His restaurants include The Frog Hoxton and The Frog by Adam Handling Covent Garden.

Adam’s culinary style showcases his love of Asian flavours and techniques – particularly Japanese – in his kitchen. His beautifully presented dishes start with careful sourcing of top quality, seasonal ingredients, prepared in several different, creative ways to enhance their inherent properties and deliver real depth of flavour and harmony.

Danny Young, 23, Sous Chef, Northcote

Danny Young was awarded the prestigious title of Young National Chef of the Year award last October and works as a Sous Chef at Northcote in Lancashire. It was Danny’s third attempt at the title and he worked hard to further develop his skills to clinch the title.

Sam Leatherby, 26, Junior Sous Chef, London Hilton on Park Lane

Junior Sous Chef at London Hilton on Park Lane, Sam Michael Leatherby realised his passion for cooking at an early age, joining the Hilton group straight out of school. Having demonstrated a high level of success, Leatherby was offered an opportunity to apply to join the team at the London Hilton on Park Lane. Having completed a series of tests, he successfully secured the placement and was promoted from apprentice to Junior Sous Chef.

Aidan Mannion, 22, Head Chef, Mill & Brew

Aidan graduated from the Jamie Oliver School of Cookery in 2015 after completing Jamie’s ‘Fifteen’ programme. Despite the intensity of the course, it was a thoroughly enjoyable experience for Aidan who cites the weekly sourcing trips as an unforgettable and inspiring moment in his culinary career. During his apprenticeship scheme, Aidan spent time at Claude Bossi’s Hibiscus and at the Grove Hotel in Watford, where he worked under the tutelage of Russell Bateman.

Aidan came to Mill & Brew in October 2017 and now at the age of just 22, he has progressed to the role of Head Chef.

Natasha Cooke, 28, Chef/Co-Owner, Lupins

Natasha (pictured right) is hugely inspirational, and talented and co-owns the highly acclaimed Lupins at London Bridge with another brilliant chef Lucy Pedder. Rated by Giles Coren the restaurant has been open just over a year and is a celebration of modern and seasonal British cooking at its best.

Niall Keating, 27, Executive Chef, Whatley Manor

Niall has worked across the world, from three Michelin-starred Benu in America to Restaurant Kong Hans Kaelder in Denmark, before joining Whatley Manor in November 2016 to offer a new style of cuisine. Niall has since been awarded a Michelin star and Michelin Young European Chef of the Year 2018.

Isaac Bartlett-Copeland, 25, Head Chef/Owner, Isaac At

Isaac originally set up his restaurant as a weekend pop-up three years ago, expanding to a full-time permanent restaurant a couple of years ago. The concept of the restaurant is simple, to source the best quality ingredients and produce as close to the restaurant as they can so that their weekly changing tasting menu reflects Sussex at any one time.

Toby Burrowes, 28, Head Chef, Elystan Street

Toby moved to London from Australia in 2013 and joined Phil Howard in the kitchen at Michelin two-starred, The Square, where he worked through the ranks to Sous Chef. In March 2016, when Phil Howard and Rebecca Mascarenhas sold The Square to open their new venture, Elystan Street in Chelsea, London, Toby was appointed Head Chef. Elystan Street has achieved numerous top accolades since its launch, including a Michelin ¬star in the Michelin UK & Ireland Guide 2018, The AA “Restaurant of the Year in London 2018”, and Square Meal’s Award for “Best New Restaurant 2016”. Toby’s was also featured in CODE’s ‘30 Under 30 2017’.

Henry Wadsworth, 23, Junior Sous Chef, Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons

Starting as a kitchen porter in local pubs, Henry spent years pushing himself to take part in cookery competitions to expand his knowledge and skills. Now in his 4th year at Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons and an integral part of the team, he has won the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts Young Chef of the Year in 2017 under mentor, Gary Jones, Executive Chef at Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons and has twice made it through to the final of the Craft Guild of Chefs Young National Chef of the Year.

Tucked away in the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside, Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons is a culinary institution in the UK under the leadership of Raymond Blanc Chef Patron OBE, setting the standard for haute cuisine and developing young chefs to reach their full potential.

Mark Winter, 23, Sous Chef, Lough Erne Resort

Mark has recently been awarded the title of Northern Ireland Young Chef of the Year and works as a Sous Chef at the luxurious Lough Erne Resort. He also won the title of Best Young Chef in Britain at a star-studded awards night in London back in May.

Martin Carabott, 29, Senior Sous Chef, Hide Above

Martin is a Senior Sous Chef at the Michelin-starred Hide restaurant in London for Chef Ollie Dabbous. He has previously worked at the now closed Michelin starred Apsley’s restaurant and subsequently worked at the Royal Automobile Club which led to him winning titles such as British Culinary Federation Chef of the Year which he went on to win in 2016 and completing a stage at 2 Michelin starred Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saison in Oxfordshire.

He now works at ‘Ground’ restaurant within Hide where he assists with the day-to-day running of the kitchen.

Food & Drink November 9, 2023

Experience the flavours of Seville with the UK’s First Negroni Fountain

Here at House of Coco, we’re all massive fans of a good summer cocktail, so when we heard that Tanqueray has launched the UK’s First Negroni Fountain? You can bet your bottom dollar, we’ll be the first ones to try it out.

In collaboration with Drake & Morgan, the Negroni Fountain was launched to celebrate the new Tanqueray Flor de Sevilla gin; a new premium orange flavoured gin that’s exactly what we need to quench our thirst (for cocktails) during Britain’s current scorching temperatures. Inspired by Charles Tanqueray’s innovative use of bittersweet Seville oranges during his original 1830s gin recipes, Tanqueray Flor de Sevilla balances citrus flavours, notes of tangerine and coriander, and the bittersweet undertones of Seville oranges. And while Tanqueray Flor de Sevilla may not qualify as part of your five a day, it is definitely the perfect addition to spruce up a classic Negroni.

The Negroni Fountain was inspired by the classic Spanish drinking fountains found in traditional plazas across Spain. Vibrant azulejos tiles hand-painted with illustrations of the infamous Seville oranges decorate the fountain, make you feel like you are drinking from the fountain of youth, or in this case gin. The Negroni Fountain is also surrounded by a charming little mini orange grove; filled with lush foliage and zesty fruits. We can assure you that after one sip of the Rosy Negroni cocktail, a combination of Belsazar rosé vermouth, Campari and Tanqueray Flor de Sevilla gin; and you will be instantly transported to theromance of Southern Spain.

Check out Tanqueray’s Negroni Fountain at The Anthologist in Manchester until August 12, 2018. The Anthologist is Manchester’s newest opening and features a dreamy planted terrace and year round alfresco dining. You can also find Tanqueray Flor de Sevilla Rosy Negroni in 22 Drake & Morgan sites across the UK.

And just so we don’t leave you hanging, here’s a cheeky little recipe to get the Perfect Tanqueray Flor de Sevilla Negroni…

Take 25 ml Tanqueray Flor de Sevilla, 25 ml Campari, 25 ml Belsazar Rosé into an old fashioned glass (with ice of course) and garnish with a fresh Orange Peel for the perfect summer cocktail. You’re welcome.

For more information on Tanqueray Flor de Sevilla, please visit: www.tanqueray.com

Fitness November 9, 2023

How to find your zen at the Baraza Resort & Spa Zanzibar

Located on the beautiful stretch of the Bwejuu – Paje beach in the South east coast of the island, named one of the world top 30 islands, Baraza Resort & Spa is like your own private little slice of paradise. There are only 30 palatial villas, each one with its own private plunge pool and an indulgent amount of space for guests to really immerse themselves in the sheer grandeur of it all. Team Coco got the chance to escape the chilly London winter and find some sun (and our zen) with the Baraza Resort & Spa.

We tried their Yoga retreat package, a 6 day retreat that combines a wonderfully inclusive series of Hatha yoga sessions and some truly rejuvenating massage treatments at the world-renowned Frangipani spa. There is no better to find your center than at the Baraza Resort & Spa. So if you’re feeling the need to renew your sense of calm in one of the world’s most beautiful luxury resorts— then here’s how.

700am

Wake up to a light tropical breeze in your own palatial villa, and casually stroll along the resort’s many stunning courtyards, and eventually finding a spot by the beach, where you are serenaded by the gentle crashing of the waves of the Indian Ocean. Here’s where our morning practice begins.

745am

Our yogi, the truly charming Sree greets you with a big smile on his face, and prepares the setup for this morning’s Hatha Yoga Practice. Get ready for some OHM.

845am

Make your way back to the Livingstone Terrace restaurant for a lovely buffet-style breakfast. Everything here is locally sourced, and is a mixture of Swahili and international cuisine. Do try the dried coconuts dipped in honey, and partake in some bespoke smoothies — or maybe even a watermelon juice.

11am

Head over to the world-renowned Frangipani spa, where your lovely therapist will lead you through yet another palatial courtyard and into, what I consider to be the world’s most beautiful relaxation room. The Frangipani spa’s therapists are all impeccable, and you can literally feel all of your worries will melt away.

12PM

Catch some sun and take a dip in your own private plunge pool. After all, you need to make the most of your stunning private villa. So reading your favourite magazine (House of Coco obviously) and playing some tunes is definitely recommended.

1pm

Catch a private Swahili cooking lesson with some of Baraza Resort & Spa’s top chefs. We learned how to cook Chicken Dhansak, following the recipe of one of Zanzibar’s most iconic personalities, Farouk Bulsara, aka Freddy Mercury.

4pm

Finish off the afternoon, with a cup (or five) of Masala Tea. This unique spiced tea was a definite favourite during our visit, and is also a very calming concoction.

7pm

Treat yourself to a glass of Dawa at the Dhababu Bar & Lounge, a local cocktail that mixes gin, cognac, lemon, and honey. The locals call it ‘medicine’ and it surely hits the spot after a serious day of relaxation at the Baraza Resort & Spa. Head over to the Sultan’s Dining Room for a fabulous meal. Here you can enjoy a menu that showcases the best of the island while being serenaded by the music of the Taarab band.

From relaxing Pranayamas to Yoga Shala meditations, you will definitely leave Zanzibarwith a whole new level of calm. One that can only be achieved amidst the breathtaking natural scenery of the Baraza Resort & Spa.

The Yoga Retreat Package at Baraza Resort & Spa is a 6 day all inclusive luxury package that begins a €3569 for single occupancy and €2353 for double occupancy (per person sharing)for a Two Bedroom Garden View Villa in the low season, and €4711 for single occupancy and €3067 for double occupancy during high season. For more information visit www.thezanzibarcollection.com

Food & Drink November 9, 2023

Exploring Authentic Peruvian Flavours at LIMA Fitzrovia, London

Our House of Coco team are constantly on the lookout for cuisines which reflect London’s cultural diversity and wealth of creative cooking talent. Peruvian cuisine embodies these attributes perfectly and so our writers Omo and Eulanda Osagiede went to sample the weekend brunch menu at Michelin starred and multi award-winning LIMA Fitzrovia.

It’s not news to discerning London foodies that there is something special happening with Peruvian food in the nation’s capital city. London’s Peruvian gastronomic revolution, which began around 2010 has created devotees across the city, with pop-ups, restaurants and cevicherias adopting and adapting its principles from Shoreditch to Richmond.

While Londoners appreciate authentic non-native cuisines, ‘fusion food’ remains wildly popular and is perhaps the culinary approach that best reflects the city’s cultural diversity. With Peruvian flavours and ingredients as their inspiration, top chefs including the 2015 Young British Foodies Chef of The Year, Adam Rawson, proudly champion their ‘English-Peruvian’ concepts.

LIMA London establishes this interesting Peruvian niche through an innovative combination of authentic ingredients, textures, colours and flavours.

Our interest in Peruvian food had already been sparked from a previous dinner visit to Covent Garden’s LIMA Floral. However, the idea of a weekend brunch at sister establishment LIMA Fitzrovia sounded equally appealing and promised to offer a different perspective on this popular cuisine.

Stepping out from Oxford Circus station, we navigated through the typical throng of Saturday afternoon shoppers along Oxford Street, before turning into the relatively quieter back streets and Georgian houses of Fitzrovia.

Nominated by the UK Sunday Times as the ‘best place to live in London’ in 2016 and once referred to by historian Edwin Beresford Chancellor as ‘London’s Old Latin Quarter’, Fitzrovia is home to stylish bars, boutique hotels and fashionable restaurants. This seemed like the perfect location for an outpost of Latin America’s food culture.

LIMA Fitzrovia offers fine-dining in an intimate and contemporary setting. The upper floor features a skylight roof which bathes the space’s neutral colour palette in ample natural light. On arrival, we chose a table at the far corner of the room, which had a good view of the open-plan restaurant, from where we hoped to watch head chef Robert Ortiz and his team at work (he was unavailable that day).

Although a limited one hour brunch option is available, a set long-lunch option (three starters, one main course with a side and dessert) is also possible. We chose the latter.

The starters arrived in quick succession. The mixed ceviche (tuna, octopus and sea bream) was served with Cusco corn, heritage tomato and traditional tiger’s milk. The flavours of the asparagus causa (potato cakes) combined well with tree tomatoes and yellow potatoes. The winner for us was the cobia tiradito (thinly sliced uncooked fish) which was colourfully presented with yellow tiger’s milk and squid ink.

Peru’s unusual ingredients reflect that country’s multiple climate zones which include the Pacific Ocean, the Amazon and the Andes. For example, there are more than 4,000 varieties of potatoes alone grown in Peru!

LIMA Fitzrovia does a great job of capturing that eco-diversity, with each innovative dish showcasing the rich colours and flavours typically associated with Andean cuisine. The small plates packed enough wholesomeness to allow us appreciate the unique combination of flavours without taking up too much space.

As we waited for the next round of food, we worked our way through a jug of ‘bottomless’ pisco punch clasico. This cocktail, made up of Peru’s national brandy, pineapple, orange, lemon, clove and prosecco, is LIMA Fitzrovia’s adaptation on the famous pisco sour. The taste inspired discussions about how we would love to visit Peru someday to sample local versions.

For our mains, we chose two dishes: a slow-cooked lamb seco, daintily placed atop a pumpkin fritter and a hake plancha which rested on a mix of seaweed and Cusco corn purée. A side summer leaf salad with pomegranates and fresh figs completed the colourful set. We felt that all the ingredients had room to breathe with none overpowering the others.

Our curiosity led us to take a look at the à la carte lunch menu. Perhaps not wanting to offend British sensibilities, there was no cuy (Peruvian roast guinea pig) in sight. We opted for the king crab causa. The aji amarillo (chillies) added a depth of flavour and a lovely reddish colour to the potato cakes. The dish was served with green quinoa to complete the unusual flavours and presentation.

From the savoury, we journeyed towards sweetness with a desert of Peruvian doughnuts and eucalyptus syrup. Our final treat was a glass of chicha morada punch (LIMA’s version is made from a base of purple maize, pisco and aromatic spices).

Quoted in the New York Times in 2014, chef Virgilio Martinez (owner of Central, Lima – ranked fourth on the 2015 World’s 50 Best Restaurants list – and co-owner of LIMA London) reflected on London’s love for Peruvian cuisine. “I am fascinated that every time I go to London, I see how the city wants more of Peru,” he said.

Following our experience at LIMA Fitzrovia, it is easy to see why London is enamoured with Peruvian cuisine.

LIMA Fitzrovia offers a weekend brunch between 11:30 am to 12:30 pm. A set menu costs £35 per person with an additional £20 for the bottomless pisco punches or prosecco. Staff are able to advise on dietary restrictions, including gluten free options. Lima Fitzrovia, 31 Rathbone Pl, Fitzrovia, London W1T 1JH, UK, +44 20 3002 2640

Photos ©Eulanda Shead Osagiede

Fitness November 9, 2023

Eat Your Way through Los Angeles

Los Angeles is the epitome of what California is all about. The palm-tree lined boulevards of Beverly Hills, the colourful houses of Venice Beach, the art-deco buildings of DTLA, the glitzy shops on Melrose Place, are all parts of what make Los Angeles unique.

One thing about Los Angeles that really stands out, is their passion for health and wellness. Yoga on the beach, organic smoothies, and cold-pressed juices are all the rage in LA, and is probably one of the reasons they live such chilled-out, happy, and healthy lives (that and maybe the perpetually sunny weather too) Team Coco shoes you how to eat your way through LA – in the cleanest and greenest way possible with our top foodie picks in the City of Angels.

Best Girl
Located on the stunning art-deco building of the Ace Hotel DTLA, Best Girl is the perfect spot in the neighbourhood for a power lunch. Best Girl is named after the first film screened in their gothic Spanish theatre way back in 1927. The spectacular interiors serve as the perfect backdrop for their even more spectacular menu. Headed by the Michelin Star Chef Michael Cimarusti, who is known for championing sustainable seafood, Best Girl serves both fresh seasonal fare and also all the classics. Try out their Avocado “Alligator Pear” Toast – which is honestly one of the best Avocado Toasts you’ll have on the West Coast.

Love & Salt
Love & Salt is a fantastic low-key Manhattan Beach restaurant by Chef Michael Fiorelli. Their food philosophy is that food only needs two ingredients to be great — love & salt; and this philosophy can be tasted throughout their gorgeous Italian inspired menu. Their cozy atmosphere, and curated but approachable wine-list, make Love & Salt truly enjoyable culinary experience. No bells and whistles, just good, clean, well-made food. Try their Freehkilicious Salad, a five grain, five herb salad that became my instant favourite; and also the California Endive Salad. Yummy food — without all the empty calories!

Cafe Gratitude
Located on the super cool Venice Beach, Cafe Gratitude is all about serving earnestly good Vegan fare. Everything on the menu is named after a positive affirmation. The Kale Cesar said is called “Dazzling,” the Raw Pesto Kelp Noodles is called “Liberated” while the Daily Dessert Special is called “Remarkable”. You are then invited to order by saying; “I am Dazzling,” “I am Liberated” or “I am Remarkable” – so you leave Cafe Gratitude with both a happy tummy and a happy heart.

visitcalifornia

Food & Drink November 9, 2023

5 Supplements You Need on a Vegan Diet

There are various health benefits of eating vegan. It may encourage good heart health, help you lose weight and even alleviate pain from arthritis. However, there are some nutrients which your body needs to function properly and which a vegan diet doesn’t provide you with. Fortunately, these can be easily supplemented, so here are some of the supplements that you’ll need if you’re on a vegan diet.

Vitamin B12

This particular vitamin is probably the most necessary one for vegans to take as a supplement. Vitamin B12 is a nutrient which we get from eating meat, fish, and eggs, all of which a vegan diet doesn’t include. The problem is that our bodies need B12 to promote good cell health, and if there’s a deficiency of it in the body, it could lead to such complications as anemia, bone disease, heart disease, and nervous system damage. It could even be tied to infertility. And even though vitamin B12 deficiency is something that could happen to anybody, even to those who eat meat and fish regularly, vegans are at a much higher risk. Food such as spirulina, nutritional yeast, and some mushrooms grown in soil loaded with B12 might help, but the best bet is to take vitamin B12 supplements and B12-fortified foods, such as cereals or various plant milks. Accordingly, something else that can be taken alongside B12 is a brain-boosting tonic such as nanofuel. Just remember to always do plenty of research when using multiple supplements to avoid any potential interactions.

Vitamin D

This precious vitamin is important for good immune function, as well as mood regulation. It also helps our body absorb other nutrients, including calcium and phosphorus. The best way to get enough of vitamin D is to spend at least 15 minutes a day in the direct sun, especially when it’s at its strongest. However, this can prove to be problematic, since in order to protect ourselves from sunburn and to prevent cancer, it’s highly recommended that we wear sunscreen, which doesn’t allow normal production of vitamin D. Also, if the weather isn’t perfect, meaning that it’s cloudy and cold, people wear clothes which cover their skin and, again, the body is unable to produce sufficient levels of this vitamin. Vitamin D is added to dairy products, such as milk or yogurt, but these aren’t included in vegan diet. For vegans, it mostly comes down to fortified cereals, but these aren’t enough, which is why taking supplements is the best way to go.

BCAAs

Branched chain amino acids fall under the category of essential amino acids. This means that the body can’t create them on its own and that the only way to obtain them is through what we eat. This is where it gets tricky for vegans, since BCAAs are found in foods such as poultry, red meat, fish, eggs and dairy products, none of which vegan diet includes. This is why it’s recommended that, in case you’re eating vegan, you take them as supplements, and the most frequent form is the great-tasting BCAA powder. If, along with being vegan, you’re physically active, all the more reason to take BCAA supplements, since they build muscles and help them recover after exercising. They can also decrease fatigue you might feel while working out, but they may alleviate the symptoms of liver disease and protect liver cirrhosis sufferers from liver cancer as well.

Calcium

This vital nutrient is essential for building bone and teeth, as well as for normal muscle and heart function. And while omnivores and vegetarians get their calcium from dairy products, in order to consume the recommended daily amount of calcium, vegans can turn to plant foods such as chickpeas, leafy greens and plant milk fortified in this mineral. Other great plant-based sources of calcium are almonds, dried fruit and white bread. However, all of these might not be enough. In case your daily intake of calcium doesn’t meet the required levels, make sure you reach for supplements. They normally come in either capsule, or powder form. Also, if you want your body to absorb calcium better, take it in combination with vitamin D.

Zinc

Not only do very few plant foods contain zinc, but those that do make it difficult for the body to absorb zinc, since they have high levels of phytates. This is why vegans, as well as vegetarians, should take about 150% of the daily recommended amount of this mineral, especially pregnant women and those who are breastfeeding. This is important, since zinc promotes good metabolism and immune function, but it also helps repair body cells. So, if you don’t get a sufficient amount of zinc from your beans, legumes, tofu, oats, nuts or seeds, look for an adequate supplement to maintain good health at any age.

If you’re worried that your vegan diet doesn’t allow your body to receive all the nutrients it should to function normally, you don’t have to change your diet. Just get the right supplements and you should be just fine.

Food & Drink November 9, 2023

10 Most Popular Chinese Dishes You Must Try

Chinese cuisine is highly respected and favored worldwide, with many Chinese food establishments everywhere. Many people learn how to cook and prepare Chinese dishes from home. Chinese meals are particularly celebrated among foreigners for the rich colors and variety of scrumptious flavors and ingredients. A great benefit of Chinese cuisine is that it is easy to make and quick to prepare. There are numerous well-known recipes that derive from China, but we’ve compiled a list of the ten most popular Chinese dishes that are enjoyed by foreigners alike.

Sweet And Sour Pork Or Chicken

This meal is probably the most famous Chinese meal across the globe. It comprises of pork or chicken, onions, vinegar, ketchup and pepper. It is so easy to prepare and are one of the most consumed dishes by foreigners.

Spring Rolls

The name spring rolls was created due to the Spring Festival in China where they are an integral part of the celebrations. Spring rolls are eaten as an appetizer in China and everywhere else in the world. These delicacies are prepared by making a think dough which is filled with veggies and meat, rolled and then fried. They are tasty and crispy and can be bought in various sizes.

Fried Cashew And Shrimps

This item is a light meal which is known for its positive influence on the cardiovascular system because it is easily cooked and highly digestible. Flour can be added if the shrimps are hard before you fry them. Celery is usually an excellent accent to this dish.

Dumplings

Very few people are unaware of these traditional Chinese dainties. Dumplings are made from baked or boiled dough and is filled with veggies or meat. The look features a half-circle dumpling with curly edges. The filling would consist of either beef, pork or vegetables such as onions or cabbage. You can check out dumplings Brisbane for fresh daily prepared dumplings and a taste of home.

Chow Mein

Chow Mein is fried noodles with onions and meat and boast numerous varieties in various countries where the preparation and cooking methods differ.

Egg-Fried Rice

This is one of the most favoured Chinese meals worldwide which is consumed repeatedly in a restaurant or at home. It has a wonderful smell and are easily cooked.

Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Poa is another Chinese dish which is universally known and comprises of stir-fried chicken with veggies, peanuts and chili peppers. A funny fact is that this meal is popular among foreigners but not as much among the Chinese people.

Roasted Peking Duck

This dish originates from Beijing and are highly favoured among foreigners, particularly for the crispy meat. It is served with soy sauce with garlic and pancakes.

Spicy Tofu

This item on the Chinese menu is made from minced meat, usually pork and beef with Tofu and is typically cooked with a spicy sauce and baked beans.

Won Ton Soup

Won Ton Soup is broadly recognized. The dumplings are almost the same as dumplings, except that it is differently shaped. The won tons are folded and is usually pulled by the conversant corners.

Conclusion

There are so many scrumptious Chinese dishes adored all over the world due to their exotic tastes, nutrition, and delicious recipes.

Food & Drink November 9, 2023

Meet the Woman Making Indian Street Food Gourmet

It’s hard to know where to begin if you’re after an Indian meal in London. From busy and bustling chains to central-sitting favourites like the Tandoor Chophouse and back-street family run joints, Indian restaurants sprawl the streets of the capital.

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Dinner is served ?? Yum!! ?: @belle.imaging_food . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #thegutsychutney #indiantapas #indiandinner #southindianchef #londonfoodie #keemabruschetta #hungryaf #dinnertime #hungryallthetime #afterworksnacks #afterworkfood #keemacurry #keemanaan #bruschetta #europeantwist #indianfoodwithatwist #redchillies #lovechillies #spicyfood #lovefood #londonfoodie #instafood #instagood #foodphotography #doubletap #followme #likeforlike

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Indian food has, of course, been massively popular for a long while now (chicken tikka masala was actually invented here in the UK, dontcha know), and we’re the last people to complain. It is the food of Saturday nights, feeding us up, tantalising our taste buds and making us feel right at home.

But the thing is, simply stating ‘Indian’ doesn’t quite seem to cut it anymore. Londoners want to know that their seafood dish is inspired by the ports of Kerala and from which street in Gujarat their vegetarian curry is from. In short, we’re getting a bit picky.

Add this desire for detail to an implosion of street food culture and love for tapas-style feasting, and you’ve opened up a whole new gap in the market. That is, Indian street food with a real story.

Recent years have seen eateries which fall under this niche experience an exponential rocketing. Dishoom and the Masala Zone are high-profile examples, as is Soho’s Darjeeling Express – a restaurant founded by Asma Khan which only employs Indian females, recently featured on Netflix’s The Chef’s Table and now has a waiting list for bookings longer than any other restaurant in its vicinity. Impressive, right?

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Just in case you needed reminding ? Food is love! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . #southindianfood #indianfood #homemadeindianfood #indiancuisine #indiancooking #loveindian #loveindia #loveindianfood #kerala #keralaindia #indianchef #indianrecipes #traditionalfood #explorenewcultures #trynewfoods #gutsychutney #instagood #londonfoodie #doubletap #foodislove #foodislife #neonsigns #loveneonsigns #neonart

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Move a little out of the spotlight and you’ll see a whole other host of Indian chefs making their mark on the London foodie scene; the latest to jump on the bandwagon is Deepa Nair, host of the Gutsy Chutney.

TGC is yet again different from its Indian counterparts, because it’s a supper club which has been founded to “right the many wrongs” when it came to the way Indian cuisine was being enjoyed and represented in the UK.

Deepa said: “The numerous restaurants serving Indian cuisine never did justice to the phenomenal culinary variety that exists in India, choosing instead to have only the same and more popular dishes on the menu.”

I’m a lover of the informal, homely supper club. Pay a set price, BYOB (often), rock up to a venue (or someone’s home) which you wouldn’t usually visit and enjoy a multiple-course set menu cooked by a passionate cook (who’s also probably spent all day slaving away in an office, a la Deepa). You can’t get much better than that.

It was a rainy Wednesday evening when I went on my way to the latest in TGC’s offerings, and upon arriving at a small pub in the depths of West London, Deepa greeted me warmly.

She had clearly been busy in the kitchen; her scraped back hair and a spice-stained apron which hung from her neck proved that whatever I was about to eat would be a total labour of love.

This latest supper club was to be inspired by the streets of India. How very apt and on-trend. Out in India, every city has its own street food speciality, so Deepa decided to take attendees on a journey.

She started with dahi papdi chaat, a favourite from the state capital Delhi. It is crisp, savoury tarts filled with boiled potato, chickpeas, sauces and sweet yoghurt. It was totally delicious.

Next up Deepa took us over to Eastern Indian with her Momos, a Tibetan take on Chinese dumplings which have now been popularised in Northern and Eastern India as popular street food. They were serving with a seriously fiery chilli sauce, which, as Deepa warned us as it arrived at the table, was very hot. We ate the Momos with chop sticks – a totally authentic experience.

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Feeling for a @calcuttacanteen keema pau and #masalachai in this freezing weather…little one was asked if he wanted less coriander Chutney on his chicken Kati kebab roll: his response – I am Indian, I can take spicy food ?? #proudfoodiemom #soulfood @darjeelingldn

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Before enjoying a delicious main meal of chorizo pao (more on that later), we tucked into Kerala bakery egg puffs. This is apparently one of the most popular snacks that you can find in the bakeries of the region. Flaky and buttery pastry is wrapped around boiled eggs with a spicy Kerala onion sauce. Totally different to anything I’ve tried before, but somehow… it worked.

As mentioned, the main was chorizo pao, a spiced up version of the Pao Recheado com Chourico in Portugal, which is bread stuffed with sausages. This is a Goan street food popular during festivals and celebrations, and could be described to be similar to a chorizo burger in a brioche bun. It has the House of Coco stamp of approval.

The evening was concluded with a traditional dessert – Matka kheer, a dish made of creamy vermicelli and served warm or cold. Comfort food at its finest.

READ MORE: The Best of Italian Street Food

Deepa’s evening was totally fabulous; an experience we would recommend endlessly. We’re rather hoping she’ll open up a restaurant at some point in the near future… but in the meantime? Get yourself booked in for her next Gutsy Chutney event on April 26th. It is set to be as mouth-wateringly delicious as ever and will be raising funds for The Hygeine Bank charity. No excuses.

Australia November 9, 2023

Vegan Eats Post-Veganuary in London

So you did Veganuary – congratulations. But are you looking for vegan eats?

Honestly, it’s admirable to successfully commit to no meat, dairy and animal products for the month. Did you find it easier than you thought you would? Did you actually enjoy eating more vegetables and plant-based foods? Did you even feel healthier for it? Whatever your reasons for doing Veganuary, however you felt from it, if you’re looking to continue eating vegan, I’ve got you on this. Discover all of these vegan food spots in London!

The Gate

Hammersmith, Islington, St. John’s Wood

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If you’re looking for a vegan restaurant set up post-January, look no further than The Gate. A vegetarian veteran in the London food business, The Gate has not only served green dishes since it opened 30 years ago, but it is now almost entirely vegan. Think leek and carmelised onion tart; courgette, pumpkin and cauliflower gyoza and aubergine schnitzel. Vegan pancakes and a vegan alternative to the Full English make appearances on the brunch menu and there’s even a fully dedicated vegan supper club menu. Featuring five courses, it even includes paired vegan wines.

Arancini Brothers

Dalston, Ely’s Yard (food truck), Kentish Town, Maltby St, Old St

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Vegan eats don’t get much better than vegan arancini balls. Big Dave and Little Dave met in Australia, learning how to make the popular risotto balls from Sicilian chefs in Melbourne. Arancini Brothers now has five locations across London and as of December 2018, their risotto balls are 100 per cent vegan (and wheat free, in case anyone wanted to know). Not only are the arancini balls delicious (go for the loaded kind, with aubergine and spicy sauces) but the salad wraps and burgers (featuring vegan chorizo) are tasty too. My favourite? The butternut squash, for sure.

Halo Burger

Brixton, Shoreditch

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If you’re continuing being vegan after Veganuary, we have to sort you out with a go-to burger spot. Halo Burger is the UK’s first 100 per cent plant-based burger joint and uses Beyond Meat for its patties. With a newly-opened branch in the heart of Shoreditch, you can now get your vegan burger fix in East London too. Halo Burger’s quarter pounder with cheese uses 99 per cent less water, 93 per cent less land, 90 per cent fewer greenhouse gas emissions and 46 per cent less energy than the average beef burger – how’s that for a clear conscience?

Pied a Terre

Fitzrovia

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London is certainly not short of fast food vegan spots or vegan cafés so it’s great to show the finer dining style restaurants that are vegan (or mostly so) too. Pied a Terre is not fully vegan but it does offer its guests a competitive number of vegan dishes on its menu and has done so for a while now. The Michelin-starred restaurant has a separate vegan (and vegetarian) menu which offers dishes such as carrot velouté with ginger and pickled celery; spelt risotto with coconut and saffron and lime sorbet. Vegan options are available as both à la carte and a tasting menu.

Crudo Cevicheria

35 Riding House St, Fitzrovia, London W1W 7EA

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Crudo (meaning raw) opened its ceviche shop late last year. The healthy fast food eatery offers diners a range of ceviche bowls, as well as ‘create your own’ options. Veganuary saw Crudo welcome a vegan bowl to the menu – with chickpeas, quinoa, rocoto (peppers), avocado, sweet potato, crispy onion and cassava chips. The option was so popular – between vegans and meat-eaters alike – that the restaurant opted to keep it on the menu for good!

Redemption Bar

Covent Garden, Notting Hill, Shoreditch

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This trendy vegan, sugar-free and wheat free restaurant definitely had to make it on the vegan London list. Post-Veganuary, this micro-chain is a great place to continue your plant-based eating. With dishes such as BBQ kimchi slaw baps; wild mushroom and squash risotto and plant-based mozzarella melts, you’ll soon forget about meat and fish dishes. If you’re a fan of tempeh (Indonesian fermented soy beans in cake-like form), make sure to try the T.L.T; a sandwich/burger situation that will keep you full all day long.

Kalifornia Kitchen

Fitzrovia, Fulham

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Don’t shoot the writer but I prefer Kalifornia Kitchen to the popular by Chloe as far as Instagrammable vegan restaurants go in London. If you enjoyed Veganuary and staying plant-based is your goal, Kalifornia Kitchen is your one-stop vegan shop. Popular plates include the rainbow beetroot carpaccio, buckwheat and banana pancakes with coconut yoghurt and jackfruit tacos. You can get your fill of burgers too – but the restaurant vowed not to be ‘another fast food vegan eatery’ and prides itself on serving healthy dishes. It’s single use plastic-free too!

Genesis

Shoreditch

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If you love London’s vegan street eats but the cold weather is getting to you, Genesis is the café for you. Completely vegan, favourite dishes include fried avocado and jackfruit hoisin tacos – as well as the growing-in-popularity seitan pulled pork. Seitan chicken curry and roasted cauliflower bowls are other popular plant-based meals. Don’t skip out on the desserts either – the ice cream (made from cashews and coconut) is on point.

Farmacy

Notting Hill

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I couldn’t do a vegan restaurants in London round up without including Farmacy – a restaurant which focuses on the connection food has with our bodies. Pro-organic and byodynamic farming, the restaurant’s earth bowls are my go-tos (think spiced buckwheat, daikon kimchee and sumac-roasted aubergine). Tofu Pad Thai and a no-beef burger are also favourites on the menu that promotes plant-based, healthy eating.

Cape Verde November 9, 2023

Eat Your Way Around Lisbon

Okay, so I don’t want to play too much into the whole instagrammable food thing but, seriously, the food in Lisbon is so pretty I had to make you a movie. So enjoy this and find all my favourite picks for eating out in Lisbon below!

Coffee

You can grab a good bica (similar to an espresso but a bit longer) pretty much anywhere in Lisbon and you should rarely spend more than 70c on it. If you prefer to have a cafe to aim for, here are some of my favourite spots for the caffeine you’ll need to conquer those seven hills.

Montana Lisboa Cafe, Rua da Cintura do Porto de Lisboa : urban art, speciality coffees (around 3 euros) and waterfront terrace.

Copenhagen Coffee Lab, Campo Santa Clara & Rua Nova da Piedade : founded in Copenhagen, winning awards as the best coffee shop in Portugal in 2018.

O das Joanas, Largo do Intendente Pina Manique : terrace seating in quirky Intendente with a great set breakfast.

Drinks

With seven hills, Lisbon is full of amazing look-outs over the city, often paired with a kiosk where you can buy a cold one. If you are looking for something a bit different, why not try one of these spots.

PARK, Calçada do Combro : on the top level of a car-park and not at all obvious from the street. Have faith, walk up the skanky back stairs and be rewarded with 180 view of the city.

Rio Marvilha, LX Factory : another panoramic bar but with restaurant and event space in the awesome quirky LX Factory.

Dois Corvos Brewery, R. Cap. Leitão 94 : colourful taproom with all of Dois Corvos range and tasty pizzas, for a chance of scenery walk (or stumble) 2 mins down the road to the more industrial Fabrica Musa brewery (Rua do Açúcar 83) and try your hand at getting a table at mysterious Aquel Lugar Que Nao Existe next door. We succeeded and it was one of the best, odd dining experiences – definitely recommended.

Dinner

It’s not hard to eat well in Lisbon, there’s plenty of amazing options but I’ll leave you with one healthy option, one burger place and a fancier but still well-priced dinner spot.

Cafe Nicolau, 17, R. São Nicolau : great spot for healthy, vegan and specialist dietary requirements. Cute street seating and a haven from the tourist / weed seller thoroughfares of the Baixa.

Cultura do Hamburguer, Rua Salgadeiras 38 : There’s a couple of popular burger spots in Lisbon; Honorato which you can sample in the Time Out Lisbon Market and Ground Burger near the Gulbenkian museum but the quirky Cultura do Hamburgueris the one for me with its innovative burger menu and great prices.

The Decadente, R. São Pedro de Alcântara 81 : Looks fancy, tastes fancy and is kind to your pocket. Great place to try some vinho verde.

Treats

You will not be hard pressed to find a sweet treat in this city…

Pasteis de Belem, Rua de Belém nº 84 : It’s a classic but it is so damn good. Go, eat two with a bica and grab a stash to take home.

Landeau, various locations incl. LX Factory : In true hipster fashion, when one place pretty much only serves one thing, it’s going to be fricking amazing. Landeau serves a velvety slice of chocolate cake from heaven.

Santina, Time Out Lisboa Market : Santini have been serving ice-cream since the 1940s and once you’ve had a scoop (or three!) you’ll see why!