The Steeple Times

Tag: tipple

  • Rumblings in Pont Street

    Rumblings in Pont Street

    Scene of a Dawn Ward shoving match Salmontini closes to makes way for a new restaurant by chef Nuno Goncalves; next door, hotel The Hari replaces its Pont Street restaurant too

     

    Opened in September 2014, Salmontini was a restaurant in Belgravia’s Pont Street that was never going to be a hit. Aside from its weird name, it was the scene of a fish fuelled fight between the former pop singer Sinitta and the champagne loving, Prosecco hating Real Housewives of Cheshire “star” Dawn Ward in September 2015. Mrs Ward, a balayage haired woman with an attitude to social media usage similar to Donald Trump, was subsequently convicted of assault in June 2016.

     

    On Thursday on Facebook, former 12 Hay Hill chef Nuno Goncalves announced that he is to take over Salmontini’s premises as chef-patron. He stated:

     

    “1 Pont St. House will be my new venture, where you can expect a relaxed atmosphere, classy fine dining where the emphasis is on the best quality farm and urban farm to table produce, the season’s best foraged ingredients cooked with an array of old meets new cooking techniques”.

     

    The double-fronted building, which was previously occupied by amongst others The Palm and Drones, stands next to The Hari (formerly the Belgraves London hotel). Its strangely decorated restaurant, Pont Street by Sophie Michell, closed recently too and will be replaced in February by an Italian bar and restaurant named Il Pampero.

     

    Rumblings in Pont Street – Salmontini closes down, Nuno Goncalves opens 1 Pont Street House – Pont Street at Belgraves London by Sophie Michell closes down, The Hari London opens Il Pampero – Restaurant openings, restaurant closings
    Salmontini has now closed down
    Rumblings in Pont Street – Salmontini closes down, Nuno Goncalves opens 1 Pont Street House – Pont Street at Belgraves London by Sophie Michell closes down, The Hari London opens Il Pampero – Restaurant openings, restaurant closings
    Pont Street at the former Belgraves London hotel is currently undergoing renovation
  • Auntie’s Hardly Ruined

    Auntie’s Hardly Ruined

    BBC executives drink surprisingly little gin, yet the Mail Online make rather a fuss about it

     

    On Saturday, the Mail Online published an article about the BBC spending £115,049 on wine, beer and spirits in 2013, 2014 and 2015 following a Freedom of Information Request.

     

    The paper surprisingly focused on a total spending of £300 on gin in 2014 and £49 on the spirit in 2015. Bizarrely, in spite of the minimal quantity consumed, they stated the Corporation’s executives are “especially fond” of it.

     

    Given the BBC has 20,951 employees in total, the publication of this non-story seems surprising. This hardly represents a return to Hogarth’s Gin Lane and it’s certainly not a case of ‘Auntie’s Ruin’.

     

    #GetOutTheGin #Cheers

     

  • Itsu’s Over

    Itsu’s Over

    EXCLUSIVE – Chelsea restaurant Itsu set to close its doors for the final time

     

    Itsu in Walton Street, Chelsea is set to close its doors shortly for the last time shortly due to rocketing rents.

     

    Described by The Telegraph as a “timeless social hot spot for women in fur boots who can’t move their foreheads”, the restaurant was the original restaurant in the chain and opened in 1997. It was the brainchild of Pret a Manger founder Julian Metcalfe and businessman Clive Schlee and is currently one of over 60 locations that form part of the Asian-inspired food chain.

     

    Prior to becoming Itsu, the Walton Street location was amongst other things the site of an “upmarket eatery” named Walton’s. That restaurant was bombed by an IRA unit named the Balcombe Street Gang on 18th November 1975. Two diners died and 23 others were injured.

     

    Itsu’s Over – Exclusive – Chelsea restaurant Itsu set to close its doors for the final time, Itsu, 118 Walton Street, London, SW3 3AE
    The aftermath of the bombing of Walton’s on the corner of Walton Street and Draycott Avenue

     

  • Reviewing Romulo

    Reviewing Romulo

    Matthew Steeples reviews Romulo Café in Kensington; it serves the finest Filipino cuisine and is well worth trying

     

    Romulo Café bills itself as providing “a taste of the Philippines in the heart of Kensington” and that it certainly does. Here you’ll find not only authentic cuisine but also a truly warm and welcoming atmosphere and an experience that is genuinely unusual.

     

    One of four restaurants – the other three being in the Philippines – owned by the same family, Romulo Café is inspired by the owner’s late grandfather, Carlos P. Romulo, a Pulitzer Prize winner, president of the United Nations General Assembly and ambassador to the United States of America. Framed portraits of “Mr United Nations”, as he was affectionately known, guide the décor of the building and a neon caricature of him stands proud at the entrance.

     

    Reviewing Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Filipino cuisine
    Carlos P. Romulo with his Lincoln in Washington
    Reviewing Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Filipino cuisine
    Rowena Romulo

     

    Owned by former Citibank and J. P. Morgan banker turned restaurateur Rowena Romulo, Romulo Café seats 70, is situated close to the newly opened Design Museum and opened in March 2016. It serves food that combines the culinary traditions of Spain, America, Malaysia and China and aside from the pork and rice dishes one links Filipino cuisine to normally, there are such things as Lola Virginia’s chicken relleno (£14) – roasted chicken stuffed with ground pork, raisins, chorizo and peas; Tito Greg’s Kare-Kare – beef (£16) or seafood (£18) stewed in a peanut based sauce with steamed vegetables and artisan shrimp paste. Homemade Filipino ice cream is a must try for dessert and for those looking to sample a selection of starters, be sure to go for ‘The General’s Combo Platter’ (£17.50). It features barbecued pork, chicken inasal, tinapa rolls, camaron rebosado and patotim with atchara.

     

    Aside from a substantial and varied wine list, it is for cocktails that Romulo Café excels. One, ‘Imelda’s High Heels’ pays homage to Imelda Marcos and thus, naturally, comes served in a vessel shaped as a shoe; another, the ‘Batangas Bad Boy’, is accompanied by a cigar. Filipino spirits including Don Papa Rum, made from cane sugar from Negros plantations; Calamancello, homemade limoncello made with Philippine lime, and San Miguel Beer Pale Pilsen, the “original Philippine beer” are also available.

     

    Of the restaurant, Rowena Romulo concludes:

     

    “We set up Romulo Café as a way to honour and help continue my grandfather Carlos P. Romulo’s legacy through food, as he and my family have always been so proud of Filipino cuisine and how food forms such a central part of Philippine culture, transcending class or creed. It’s true that every single Filipino loves to eat”.

     

    “Now that we have expanded Romulo Café to London, we hope it will help to raise the profile and appreciation of the Philippines through our cuisine. And maybe it will also help to introduce my grandfather and his amazing work to a new generation”.

     

    Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390.

     

    Reviewing Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Filipino cuisine
    Lola Virginia’s chicken relleno
    Reviewing Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Filipino cuisine
    Imelda’s High Heels cocktail
    Reviewing Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Filipino cuisine
    Batangas Bad Boy cocktail
    Reviewing Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Filipino cuisine
    A caricature of Carlos P. Romulo welcomes diners at the restaurant’s entrance
  • Returning to Romulo

    Returning to Romulo

    More pictures from Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo’s party at Romulo Café

     

    Today, we share a further selection of images from the party Matthew Steeples of The Steeple Times co-hosted with Rowena Romulo at Romulo Café in Kensington High Street.

     

    Guests on the night numbered the Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali as well as Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Mark Agate, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Hannah Norman, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley.

     

    Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390

     

    Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Mark Agate, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley.Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Mark Agate, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley.Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Mark Agate, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley.Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Mark Agate, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley.Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Mark Agate, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley.Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Mark Agate, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley.Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Mark Agate, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley.Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Mark Agate, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley.Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Mark Agate, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley. Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Mark Agate, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley. Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Mark Agate, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley.Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Mark Agate, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley.

  • Raising the Roof to Romulo

    Raising the Roof to Romulo

    An evening of cocktails and fine Filipino food at Romulo Café

     

    On 23rd November in London, Matthew Steeples of The Steeple Times co-hosted a party with financier turned restaurateur Rowena Romulo at her recently opened Café Romulo – the fourth outpost of a family owned and managed group of restaurants and the first outside of the Philippines.

     

    Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley.Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley.Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley. Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley. Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley.

     

    Supported by the deliciously smooth Italian gin Sabatini, the party celebrated a taste of the Philippines in Kensington and showcased Romulo Café’s deliciously decadent menu. Guests were served canapés, bowl food and desserts that numbered tuna ceviche, barbecued pork, lamb stew and Filipino rice cakes whilst cocktails, much to the delight of the assembled ladies, included the especially decadent (and served in a shoe) ‘Imelda’s High Heels’.

     

    The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Mark Agate, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Hannah Norman, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley.

     

    As one happy attendee left, they they told Romulo Café’s delightful marketing director Gina McAdam: “What a wonderful evening. Rowena is a truly remarkable and gracious hostess. We’ll definitely be returning for lunch soon; this is just the kind of new restaurant London truly needs”.

     

     

    Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390

     

    Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley.Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley. Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley. Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley. Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley. Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley. Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley. Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley. Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley. Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley. Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley. Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley.Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley. Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley. Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley. Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley.Raising the Roof to Romulo – Romulo Café, 343 Kensington High Street, London, W8 6NW. Telephone: +44 (0) 20 3141 6390 – Party hosted by Matthew Steeples and Rowena Romulo, 23rd November 2016 – The Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom H.E. Evan P. Garcia and the country’s Commercial Attaché and Director A. M. Kristine Umali put in an appearance and other distinguished guests included Anthony Abrahams, Leke Adebayo, Stephen Annett, Lucas Bitencourt, Brian Blick, Basia and Richard Briggs, Julian Byzantine, Mark Captain, Michael Clark, Jacina Coyne, Millie Dean, Heimir Helgason, David Hencke, Saint Hill, Iqbal Latif, Mr and Mrs Alan Millinder, Alexandra Naylor, Angelique Neumann, Oliver Newton, Simon Ogilvie-Harris, Su-Lin Ong, Alexis Parr, Tarik Remila, Claire Rubinstein, Alyssa Sherman, Alexandra and Mark Sykes, Roger Townsend and Lady Jane Duncombe Townsend, John Wellington, Mr and Mrs Bill Wiggins and Paul Wooley.

  • Reader Offer – Bargain champagne in SW3

    Reader Offer – Bargain champagne in SW3

    Brut and Brut Rosé Champagne for sale for just £25 per bottle (normally £58 and £65 respectively)

     

    Readers of The Steeple Times are invited to purchase surplus champagne from La Brasserie in Chelsea.

     

    Offered for just £25 per bottle, with no minimum order, to take home, one hundred bottles Champagne Vielle France Brut (normally £58) and Champagne Vielle France Brut Rosé (normally £65) can be purchased directly from La Brasserie, 272 Brompton Road, London, SW3 2AW.

     

    Of the brut, Andreas Larsson – described boldly as the “best sommelier of the world” – as “a harmonious and well made blend”. He adds: “It has a spring in its step and is a perfectly drinkable champagne”.

     

    Payment can be made by cash or card and there is no minimum order. For larger orders, delivery can be made in the locality.

     

     

     

    Subscribe to our free once daily email newsletter here:[wysija_form id=”2″]

     

  • Gin rockets

    Gin rockets

    Gin sales up in the UK as drinkers switch from beer and wine to ‘Mother’s Ruin’

     

    The gin market in the UK has soared to sales of nearly £1 million per day according to new research by analysts Kantar Worldpanel.

     

    According to the firm, sales are up 16% to £338 million in the year to June with 19 million litres of gin purchased by Brits during the period.

     

    Sales of premium gins such as Portobello Road (42% ABV) and Sipsmith (41.6% ABV) – both of which sell for far above the average price of a litre at £18.82 – are up 90% and 60% respectively. Kantar Worldpanel, however, fail to mention that both are sold at heavily discounted prices across the Wetherspoons group and without doubt these brands’ presence in 956 pubs has made somewhat of a difference to their volume figures.

     

     

    Subscribe to our free once daily email newsletter here:[wysija_form id=”2″]

     

  • Shoot and Stay

    Shoot and Stay

    Kelly Double suggests where to learn to shoot and where to stay within easy reach of London

     

    There’s seldom a diversion from city life as effective as a session of clay shooting. In the wake of Team GB’s Olympic successes and as the shooting season is getting underway, there’s never been a better time to put your finger to the trigger and immerse yourself in this heritage, country sport.

     

    The wide rural skies and focus on hitting targets can easily chase away the stresses of urban living with exhilaration. With both grouse and partridge already in season, and pheasants joining at the beginning of October, I have pulled together my top four destinations for learning how to shoot, and which countryside establishment nearby you can rely on to provide you with delicious sustenance afterwards. My options have varied menus and low-key luxury bedrooms and are thus perfect spots to recharge after a long day in the fresh air.

     

    Shoot at The Oxford Gun Company

    Shoot and Stay – Kelly Double of Zambuni chooses options to shoot and stay close to London – The Oxford Gun Company and The Pheasant – Lady’s Wood and King’s Arms – The Royal Berkshire Shooting School and The Yew Tree – Bisley and The Inn at West EndLocated just an hour outside London and set in some 400 acres of stunning quintessential British countryside, The Oxford Gun Company is an award winning family-run shooting ground with over 40 years’ experience in the business. Surrounded by rolling countryside, and a course set across babbling brooks, there is no better place to become immersed in this heritage sport.

     

    The instructors at The Oxford Gun Company teach the Stanbury Method and have the experience that it takes to truly give you the best introduction to the sport, guiding you from the very beginning – Amber Hill trained here and completed its TSC Academy, so they know what they’re doing. Whether you aspire to the Olympic rings, or just want to enjoy some time in the countryside, the team can help you hit the targets to get there.

     

    Then dine and stay at The Pheasant

    Shoot and Stay – Kelly Double of Zambuni chooses options to shoot and stay close to London – The Oxford Gun Company and The Pheasant – Lady’s Wood and King’s Arms – The Royal Berkshire Shooting School and The Yew Tree – Bisley and The Inn at West EndCelebrate a successful day’s shooting at The Pheasant, Brill. Just down the road from The Oxford Gun Company, the pub is perched on a hill and enjoys views over the historic Brill Windmill and neighbouring counties. The Pheasant, to my mind, offers the true country pub package.

     

    You can sample a wide range of traditional dishes, made on site with locally sourced, seasonal produce and then head to bed in one of the cosy rooms. Service is friendly and the atmosphere excellent.

     

    Shoot at Lady’s Wood

    Shoot and Stay – Kelly Double of Zambuni chooses options to shoot and stay close to London – The Oxford Gun Company and The Pheasant – Lady’s Wood and King’s Arms – The Royal Berkshire Shooting School and The Yew Tree – Bisley and The Inn at West EndSet amidst the beautiful Gloucestershire countryside, with easy access from both the M4 and M5, Lady’s Wood is not far from Bristol and Bath. The grounds are set in 65 acres of natural woodland with a quintessentially welcoming Cotswold stone lodge.

     

    The course has a large variety of sporting traps which can simulate anything, from a bolting rabbit to a long distance pheasant thrown from the 120 ft High Tower – a special feature of the school and one of the highest in the country. Lady’s Wood instructors are always delighted to introduce new shooters to the sport, delivering a full and thorough understanding in all aspects of gun safety and shooting etiquette. The team are skilled in the tuition of juniors and ladies and will make you feel relaxed and safe whilst building confidence in your new skills.

     

    Then dine and stay at The King’s Arms

    Shoot and Stay – Kelly Double of Zambuni chooses options to shoot and stay close to London – The Oxford Gun Company and The Pheasant – Lady’s Wood and King’s Arms – The Royal Berkshire Shooting School and The Yew Tree – Bisley and The Inn at West EndA traditional British pub and hotel set within the small village of Didmarton in the beautiful Cotswolds, The King’s Arms is an absolute treat. Serving local ales and beers alongside an evolving menu of seasonal British cuisine it’s a sure fire way to enjoy countryside comfort. The restaurant only uses the freshest locally sourced produce and all game on offer comes direct from the neighbouring country estates.

     

    With a choice of self-catering cottages in the stables of the original 17th century King’s Arms, or cottage-style bed and breakfast rooms the luxurious touches will allow you to feel like the Cotswolds is truly your home. Dogs are welcome too – so there’s no need to be afraid of bringing the pooch along for an adventure.

     

    Shoot at The Royal Berkshire Shooting School

    Shoot and Stay – Kelly Double of Zambuni chooses options to shoot and stay close to London – The Oxford Gun Company and The Pheasant – Lady’s Wood and King’s Arms – The Royal Berkshire Shooting School and The Yew Tree – Bisley and The Inn at West EndEstablished over two decades ago, The Royal Berkshire Shooting School is recognised as one of the finest facilities of its kind. The school employs seven full-time, professional shooting instructors, and has one of the most expansive shooting grounds in the country.

     

    Its frontline team of shooting professionals has amassed over 100,000 hours as instructors and more than 125 years of experience in the shooting and fishing business. You will know you’re in safe hands. If you want a challenge in a forward-thinking environment, this is the place for you.

     

    Then dine and stay at The Yew Tree

    the-yew-treeThe Yew Tree Inn is a delightful 17th century country pub with rooms and excellent dining situated in the lovely English countryside, moments from Highclere Castle. The food here is an absolute treat, and as a result, The Yew Tree has quite rightly built up a reputation for its high standard of food and service.

     

    With two AA Rosettes, The Yew Tree’s superb kitchen team is headed up by Emma Broom whose has over 20 years of experience cooking great British cuisine. Menus are inspired by the surrounding English countryside, so expect to dine on fresh fish and game plucked straight from forests and rivers nearby. Every one of the rooms has been designed with comfort and relaxation in mind and you’ll not be disappointed. Dogs are more than welcome in some of the rooms and The Yew Tree can even provide facilities such as dog beds and water bowls on request.

     

    Shoot at Bisley

    Shoot and Stay – Kelly Double of Zambuni chooses options to shoot and stay close to London – The Oxford Gun Company and The Pheasant – Lady’s Wood and King’s Arms – The Royal Berkshire Shooting School and The Yew Tree – Bisley and The Inn at West EndEasily accessible from London and set in the Surrey countryside, the short journey to the countryside will evoke a sudden release of tension that only the outdoors can prompt. A leader in the world of clay shooting, Bisley was founded in 1895 and its grounds are continually being developed to ensure an unbeatable service and variety of targets. It’s ideal for both beginners looking for an introduction to the sport and more seasoned shots. Each instructor is carefully selected and the great majority have shot for Great Britain.

     

    Beginners looking for step-by-step advice can request one-to-one lessons to start off on the right foot whilst seasoned professionals can polish their skills with top tips from the very best in the business.

     

    Then dine and stay at The Inn at West End

    Shoot and Stay – Kelly Double of Zambuni chooses options to shoot and stay close to London – The Oxford Gun Company and The Pheasant – Lady’s Wood and King’s Arms – The Royal Berkshire Shooting School and The Yew Tree – Bisley and The Inn at West EndJust 20 minutes from Bisley and recently refurbished to the highest standard, The Inn at West End is the perfect escape from the city. Fresh, seasonal produce is the cornerstone of each and every plate and longstanding, excellent relationships with its suppliers mean that the menu changes and evolves according to the best ingredients dependent on the time of year. Nuanced, innovative dishes sit happily alongside more traditional, British pub classics. Disappointment is not an option.

     

    Each room is individually decorated in a contemporary country style and equipped with all you need for a relaxing stay in rural idyll. With beds that look (and feel) like clouds, flat-screen TVs, broadband access, en-suite wet rooms, safes sized to accommodate shotguns and many other thoughtful details this is an inn that will impress. Two rooms even cater for dogs, and one for guests who require additional accessibility facilities.

     

     

    Kelly Double is an account executive at Zambuni, a marketing agency specialising in the country lifestyle sector. Follow her on Twitter at @KellyDouble1.

     

     

    Subscribe to our free once daily email newsletter here:[wysija_form id=”2″]

     

  • The pleasures of Petworth

    The pleasures of Petworth

    New contributor Jacina Coyne on how to spend a day in Petworth, West Sussex

     

    Petworth is well known for its synonymous stately home and its grounds by ‘England’s greatest gardener’, Capability Brown. This is a charming gem of a town in the English countryside and is easily accessible from London. I reached it in an hour with no traffic.

     

    Overflowing with character, Petworth boasts over forty antiques shops and they are well known for the treasures within them. While this town is easy going, it also boasts sophisticated tastes.

     

    I would suggest this to be the ideal place to take a visiting friend who wishes to see a bit of the English countryside; you will be hard pressed, in fact, to find anywhere better for a better day trip.

     

    My five must visits are:

     

    1. The Leconfield

    The pleasures of Petworth – A day trip to Petworth, West SussexThe pleasures of Petworth – A day trip to Petworth, West SussexA two rosette stared restaurant with a glorious outdoor dining area. The food is exquisite and the menu thoughtful; the atmosphere is relaxed but the service is five star.

     

    1. Petworth House and Park

    The pleasures of Petworth – A day trip to Petworth, West Sussex700 acres of sheer beauty managed by the National Trust.

     

    1. Augustus Brandt

    The pleasures of Petworth – A day trip to Petworth, West SussexThe pleasures of Petworth – A day trip to Petworth, West SussexA wonderful Georgian house brimming with everything from objets d’art to personalised monogrammed bags by the stylish yet practical Italian brand My Style Bags. Here, also, you’ll find the only concession of Linley outside London.

     

    1. The Hungry Guest Café

    The pleasures of Petworth – A day trip to Petworth, West SussexFresh breads, a cheese larder and butcher – bursting with wonderful edibles such as walnut pesto and brownies.

     

    1. The Hungry Guest

    The pleasures of Petworth – A day trip to Petworth, West SussexThe best ready meals on the market according to The Telegraph’s Xanthe Clay. For me, though, it was their pecan pie that topped the bill. Be sure to take home a feast from this foodie’s paradise.

     

     

    Follow Jacina Coyne on Instagram @jacina077.

     

     

    Subscribe to our free once daily email newsletter here:[wysija_form id=”2″]