Latest news with #African-inspired
The South African
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The South African
Thuso Mbedu wraps up filming on 'Children of Blood and Bone'
South African star Thuso Mbedu has officially wrapped filming on the highly anticipated fantasy epic, Children of Blood and Bone. The film, adapted from Tomi Adeyemi's bestselling novel, promises to bring a vibrant African-inspired world to life on the big screen. For Mbedu, who plays the lead role of Zélie Adebola, this marks another exciting chapter in her rising international career. The production is directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, known for her acclaimed work on The Woman King , according to Elle The film's schedule was demanding, but Mbedu expressed her gratitude and excitement. 'To know that I have the opportunity to work with some of the most amazing people as we tell this great story is truly humbling. I'm so excited. I'm so grateful'. Children of Blood and Bone follows Thuso Mbedu's Zélie, a young woman in the fictional land of Orïsha. She embarks on a quest to restore magic stolen by the tyrannical King Saran. She embarks on this journey alongside her brother Tzain, played by Tosin Cole, and the king's children. The King's children are Princess Amari (Amandla Stenberg) and Prince Inan (Damson Idris). Zélie challenges the oppressive regime to reclaim her people's power. The story's rich West African influences and themes of resilience and hope resonate deeply with audiences worldwide. The film boasts a stellar cast, including Hollywood heavyweights Viola Davis, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Cynthia Erivo, Idris Elba, and Lashana Lynch. This ensemble reflects a pan-African and diaspora representation, which director Prince-Bythewood highlighted as the source of the film's 'magic.' She said, 'Our incredible ensemble reflects the whole of the diaspora. This is where our magic lies'. For South African audiences, seeing Mbedu lead such a significant project is a moment of pride. Thuso Mbedu has become a beacon of talent and determination, showing that local actors can shine on the global stage without losing their roots. The film's production in South Africa also underscores the country's growing role as a hub for international filmmaking. The filmmakers plan to release the movie in early 2027, and fans are already building anticipation. Both book lovers and newcomers eagerly await seeing how the magical world of Orïsha will come to life on screen. Mbedu's powerful portrayal of Zélie is expected to be a highlight, capturing the fierce spirit and heart of the character. In a recent interview, Adeyemi praised the collaboration with Prince-Bythewood and Thuso Mbedu. 'What Gina does so well is tell these deep, complex stories of women who look like us front and centre. This is especially so with incredible action set pieces and cinematography. It feels divine. It feels bigger than just making this project. We're really in sync'. As the cameras stop rolling, the journey for Children of Blood and Bone is just beginning. South Africa can proudly claim Thuso Mbedu's success as a shining example of local talent making waves globally. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Scottish Sun
2 days ago
- Scottish Sun
The pretty UK island with African-inspired holiday lodges – and you can spot otters and seals from your bed
Plus, the UK's highest campsite that has view of the highest mountain SEAL THE DEAL The pretty UK island with African-inspired holiday lodges – and you can spot otters and seals from your bed Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A TINY island in the UK is home to holiday lodges were inspired by safari camps abroad. WildLuing on the Scottish island of Luing was created by Jack and his wife Emily after they were inspired while living in Kenya. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 Each of the lodges has been individually hand-crafted Credit: 5 There are eight different lodges all looking over Torsa Bay Credit: WildLuing has eight self-catered glamping suites, called WildSuites, that overlook Torsa Bay where you can regularly spot seals and otters. Something Jack and Emily said they liked about the Kenya lodges was that groups would gather for meals in a large communal space, then go back to their cabins. Each pod is custom built and there are some where you can bring along a furry friend too. And inside each of the lodges is a super king bed, which can be split into doubles if necessary, as well as a shower - and some even have a roll top bath. Cleverly, all of the cabins are positioned differently so no matter which you stay in, you will get views of the bay. Prices for the cabins start from £195 per night and each sleeps two. Unlike most other campsites, there's no shops or pubs, it's all about getting back to nature. As a result, on-site is a communal lounge and dining room. And it's a hit with visitors having been described as 'bucket list material.' The biggest place on-site is The Observatory which hosts up to 20 guests. Scotland's Cheapest & Most Expensive Coastal Towns 5 The Observatory is available for events like yoga retreats and wedding receptions Credit: 5 The outdoor area has views over Torsa Bay Credit: It has views over Torsa Bay and is completely open-plan with a kitchen, pantry, dining area and cosy living room. You can't actually stay overnight but it can be hired out to use for yoga retreats, cooking school, dining events, wild swimming groups, and wedding receptions, according to the website. Around the bay is various types of wildlife, and from the private deck you'll be able to spot otters as well as grey and common seals. For the lucky ones, you might even see dolphins. The Isle of Luing is one of the Slate Islands in the west of Argyll in Scotland and has a population of just 200 people. WildLuing launched three years ago, and has received lots of positive reviews from visitors. One wrote on Tripadvisor: "Wowsers. If you haven't been, then this should be bucket-list material." Another added: "Wild Luing was simply sensational on all fronts." To get to the Isle of Luing, you'll need to get a ferry from North Cuan. Here's the UK's highest campsite has cosy camping pods and views of the country's tallest mountain. And more campsites in the UK near water to with sea views and luxury cabins.
Time Out Dubai
03-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Time Out Dubai
J1 Beach Dubai: 13 new restaurants to book immediately
A new beachfront destination has arrived in Dubai. After months (and months) of waiting, J1 Beach Dubai opened in 2024 and is now home to 13 licensed fine-dining concepts. From South of France export Bâoli to uber-elegant Italian Gigi Rigolatto, there is plenty of delicious cuisines to discover along the 500-metre shoreline strip. You might also like: J1 Beach: 9 luxe beach clubs to book next Have we officially piqued your interest? Good. Here are the best J1 Beach restaurants more than worthy of your next special occasion. The best J1 Beach restaurants in Dubai African Queen J1 Beach Dubai. Since opening its doors in 1969 in Beaulieu-sur-Mer on the French Riviera, African Queen is all about Med sophistication. Known for serving up Riviera classics, African Queen has attracted a fancy clientele and has drawn in some global icons. When it opened in Dubai at J1 Beach it instantly became a go-to place for Dubai diners to visit. Time Out Dubai even spotted Lindsay Lohan grabbing a bite to eat with her husband. The Dubai location features African-inspired décor (there are a lot of leopard and zebra patterns everywhere). The menu features French Riviera classics like salad Nicoise and pissaladiere pizza, as well as popular Dubai dishes a la burrata salad, lobster linguine and, of course, truffle fries. Open Mon-Thu 10am-midnight. Fri-Sun 10am-1am. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, (052 778 0760). Almayass by the Sea New restaurants in Dubai. Credit: Almayass With branches in Abu Dhabi, Kuwait and Riyadh, fans of Almayass are now able to dive into mezze-style dishes like manti, kabab karaz, kibeh karaz, sujuk flambe and warak enab with yoghurt. First jumping onto the Beirut foodie scene in 1996, the restaurant is known for serving up generations-old recipes with modern flair. Open daily noon-1am. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, @almayass_dubai (04 214 5999). Bâoli Credit: Baoli Famous Cannes hotspot Bâoli has landed in Dubai and offers up a pretty stunning destination right by the beach. Here, you'll get modern Japanese cuisine with a hint of new Asian flavours. The jungle-themed restaurant can easily be described as having 'sanctuary aesthetics', but the vibes are anything but peaceful. The vibey and upbeat spot has amazing music blasting and well-dressed diners are on their feet dancing with sparklers in hand. Visit this J1 Beach destination on a weekend if you're in a party party mood and you definitely will not regret it. Open Sun-Wed noon-1am, Thu-Sat noon-2am. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, (04 558 6381). Check out our full Bâoli review here Chouchou J1 Beach Dubai. Launching its first outpost worldwide at J1 Beach at La Mer, Chouchou is a members-only beach house with a restaurant that serves upscale family-style French cuisine with a twist, while the beach house remains exclusive to members. The venue also includes a living room, a rooftop terrace, and its very own signature pool. Chouchou fits right into Dubai's sophisticated French dining scene with signature dishes like seafood towers with oysters and caviar, salt-crusted chicken, fish romanesco and sweet chouchou. Open daily from 10am-midnight. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1. (052 818 3203). Gigi Rigolatto New restaurants in Dubai. Credit: Gigi Rigolatto Gigi is all about elegant Italian culture. Promising a lively atmosphere, it appeals to both foodies and party enthusiasts. Inspired by iconic locations like Paris and Saint-Tropez, Gigi features a menu of classic Italian cuisine, highlighted by its 'Bellini Bar' offering both traditional and modern variations of the classic peach drink. The venue accommodates 240 guests, with 120 indoor seats and spacious terraces. Families are welcomed with the Gigi Circus, a kids' club packed with fun activities. A concept store offers over 40 international brands of beachwear and accessories. Open daily from 10am-1am. J1 Beach, La Mer (04 558 2067). Check out our full Gigi Rigolatto review here Gitano J1 Beach Dubai. Tulum-inspired eatery GITANO is a Mexican-themed spot that features traditional dishes as well as a 'Gypsy Disco' experience for guests. Founded by British-born James Gardner, the venue is kitted out with a modern jungle feel, branded with neon signs and of course, the iconic disco ball – a nod to its New York flair. Looking out over the beach and also with views of the Burj Khalifa, you can expect Latin American cuisine with a twist. Open Sun-Thu 11am-1am; Fri-Sat 11am-2am. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, (058 566 2320). INÁ (coming soon) J1 Beach Dubai. Credit: J1 Beach in Dubai welcomed its final addition in April 2025 and it's a total vibe. INA, meaning fire or flame in Nigerian Yoruba, boasts Dubai's largest open-flame grill and serve up fresh-high quality fish, meat, vegetables and grains in view of the guests. Blending open fire cooking with fine dining, the menu is a collaboration from Evgeny Kuzin and acclaimed chef Glen Ballis. Nodding to African heritage, the decor is definitely one for the 'gram, while the dishes will all be cooked on Dubai's largest open-fire grill. Open all year round, you can sit under the sun in winter or opt for a table under the climate-controlled canopy in the summer months. Open Sun-Thu 6.30pm-1am, Fri-Sun 6.30pm-2am. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, (04 570 4766). Kaimana Beach J1 Beach Dubai. Kaimana Beach in Dubai offers a Polynesian-inspired space with top dining and a vibey atmosphere. Created by chef Michael Collantes, a chef with deep roots in Hawaii, the menu blends Asian-Polynesian flavours with dishes like braised beef cheek loco moco and pulpo anticuchero. While the pool area is exclusively for adults, families with children can take advantage of the beach facilities, ensuring there is something for everyone. Oh and if you want to do a pool day, it's one of the few spots at J1 where sunbed prices are fully redeemable on food and drinks. Open daily from 10am-1am. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, (04 243 3555). La Baia Dubai J1 Beach Dubai. This restaurant and beach club is packed with an air of *that's amore*, from the stripy sunbeds to the fresh lemons on the tables. Serving up dishes from Southern Italy, the menu will include everything from Mediterranean seafood to artisanal pastas, stuffed zucchini flowers and some ultimate burrata creations. Inside the restaurant, there's even an exclusive dessert room, where you can admire the sweet treats taking centre stage (think tiramisu, Sicilian cannoli and of course, creamy gelato). Open daily from 10am-midnight. J1 Beach, La Mer South, (04 570 2482). LÚNICO J1 Beach Dubai. Lúnico brings Spanish fine dining and a late-night bar experience to Dubai's J1 Beach this autumn. Inspired by the moon's phases and natural elements, Lúnico offers a sensory journey combining exceptional Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine, a dynamic bar program, and captivating music. Guests explore unique dishes like ceviche Gallego, Galician octopus, and vieiras with caviar, incorporating biodynamic ingredients inspired by lunar cycles. The bar serves signature drinks tied to the four elements and pre-Columbian traditions. Featuring indoor and outdoor seating with sea views, LED visuals, and an atmospheric design, Lúnico offers a transformative experience blending fine dining, culture, and entertainment. Open Sun-Wed noon-1am, Thu-Sat noon-2am. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, (050 277 6503). Ninive Beach Dubai One of the first Middle Eastern-inspired beach clubs in Dubai (and how has it taken this long to launch one?), Ninive Beach is already a very popular destination at J1 Beach. Designed to look like a stunning Morrocan majlis, the indoor/outdoor space features a turquoise tiled pool, rich earth tones and traditional textiles. All with a cool and modern twist. In addition to delicious Lebanese, Iraqi, Turkish and Moroccan cuisine, Ninive Beach also offers pool and beach access, chic sunbeds and Moroccan-inspired cabanas. The venue also hosts cool events and monthly DJ sets from global artists. Open daily from 10am-2am. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, (04 498 4200). Sakhalin J1 Beach Dubai. Created by famous Russian chef Vladimir Mukhinan, the beachfront spot Sakhalin is inspired by Sakhalin Island (Russia's biggest island). Here, you can expect a menu that features Russian, Mediterranean and Asian blends. Sounds complicated, but it works. Located at J1 Beach Sakhalin has views of the Arabian Gulf, a gorgeous terrace and a stunning centrepiece fountain under an illuminated roof installation made from shimmering light. The menu focuses mostly on seafood and features creative dishes made with top-notch ingredients. Definitely one not to miss. Open Sun-Thu noon-midnight; Fri-Sat noon-1am. J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, (04 495 1600). Sirene Beach by GAIA (Credit: Supplied) With a menu created by Evgeny Kuzin and chef Izu Ani, the pair have branched out from the original DIFC restaurant for this beachfront project (so get expect something special). Bringing a range of dishes to the table, expect an extensive selection of fresh seafood, seasonal vegetables and some classic cooking styles that will remind you of some top-quality home cooking. If you want to go all out on your Greek escape, get the whole gang together and book out a private cabana, the larger of which can accommodate up to eight guests (and some of the cost is redeemable too). Open Sun-Thu 10am-1am, Fri-Sat 10am-2am. J1 Beach, Jumeriah 1, (052 334 2787). Need a reservation in the meantime? New restaurants in Dubai that you need to visit right now From casual eats to fine dining, there's bound to be a new venue you'll want to try These are Dubai's best restaurants: 85 incredible places to dine in 2024 All the winners of the Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards 2024 25 of the best restaurants in DIFC: Reservations you have to make now Tried, tested and highly rated restaurants to try in Dubai's financial district
Perth Now
27-05-2025
- Business
- Perth Now
High-end Perth steakhouse to take diners to another world
City steakhouse Meat & Wine Co. is temporarily closing for renovation. Part of the Seagrass Boutique Hospitality Group founded by South African-born meat lover Bradley Michel, the CBD diner which opened in the former Palace Hotel in 2018 will unveil a 'sophisticated redesign celebrating its African-inspired heritage' on June 2. 'In pursuit of an elevated and immersive dining experience for its discerning clientele, including Perth's esteemed steak aficionados, corporate professionals and Perth residents, The Palace's 'ballroom' (is) temporarily closed until June 2nd for an exciting and unique transformation,' the restaurant group said in a press release. The revitalised interior comes courtesy of the COOOP, an international architectural and design company. 'Patrons will dine under Acacia trees', a reference to the African landscape which takes centre stage in the new-look dining room. Other new furnishings include high-back banquette seating, as well as state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems. Meat & Wine Co. in the city back in 2018. Credit: Daniel Wilkins / The Sunday Times COOOP Australia principal and creative director Callie Van Der Merwe said the refurbishment aimed to connect the baroque style of the old ballroom with the contemporary elements of Meat & Wine Co. dining rooms. The ground floor restaurant at 108 St Georges Terrace will also relaunch with a winter menu starring dry-aged steak with confit garlic and bone marrow. The city steakhouse's refresh follows news of Seagrass' expansion in the WA hospitality market. The company has already acquired the South Perth site previously home to iconic local restaurant Coco's for its second Meat & Wine Co. outlet in WA, due to open in late 2025. There are also plans for a Meat & Wine Co. in Margaret River, as well as three new Hunter & Barrel outlets in the next few years. Perth meat lovers can expect more Meat & Wine Co. restaurants to open in the next few years. Credit: Supplied In 2024, the hospitality business split into SeagrassBHG and Blue Coral Concepts, which oversees more casual dining options Italian Street Kitchen, Ribs & Burgers and the Five Guys burger chain. The West Australian understands that Ribs & Burgers is also poised to refresh and relaunch its Perth restaurant. Seagrass also owns the high-end 6Head steakhouse at Elizabeth Quay. Seagrass chief executive Ravi Singh said in 2024 that the hospitality group was 'bullish about WA', saying there was room in Perth for 6Head, Meat & Wine Co. and Hunter & Barrel. 'All three brands have got a space in the market,' he said. 'Perth is a living example where we've got the three brands within 250m of each other and all three are roaring successes.' Seagrass Boutique Hospitality Group chief executive Ravi Singh. Credit: Supplied / TheWest According to figures provided by Seagrass, Hunter & Barrel's Perth restaurant enjoyed an impressive 21.1 per cent increase in revenue in July to November 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. The total number of patrons dining at the Raine Square diner rose by more than 9 per cent. Meanwhile, Meat & Wine Co. in Perth earned 4.5 per cent more income in the same timeframes with a 2 per cent lift in clientele.
West Australian
27-05-2025
- Business
- West Australian
City steakhouse Meat & Wine Co. closes for African-inspired refresh as Seagrass fires up WA expansion
City steakhouse Meat & Wine Co. is temporarily closing for renovation. Part of the Seagrass Boutique Hospitality Group founded by South African-born meat lover Bradley Michel, the CBD diner which opened in the former Palace Hotel in 2018 will unveil a 'sophisticated redesign celebrating its African-inspired heritage' on June 2. 'In pursuit of an elevated and immersive dining experience for its discerning clientele, including Perth's esteemed steak aficionados, corporate professionals and Perth residents, The Palace's 'ballroom' (is) temporarily closed until June 2nd for an exciting and unique transformation,' the restaurant group said in a press release. The revitalised interior comes courtesy of the COOOP, an international architectural and design company. 'Patrons will dine under Acacia trees', a reference to the African landscape which takes centre stage in the new-look dining room. Other new furnishings include high-back banquette seating, as well as state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems. Meat & Wine Co. in the city back in 2018. Credit: Daniel Wilkins / The Sunday Times COOOP Australia principal and creative director Callie Van Der Merwe said the refurbishment aimed to connect the baroque style of the old ballroom with the contemporary elements of Meat & Wine Co. dining rooms. The ground floor restaurant at 108 St Georges Terrace will also relaunch with a winter menu starring dry-aged steak with confit garlic and bone marrow. The city steakhouse's refresh follows news of Seagrass' expansion in the WA hospitality market. The company has already acquired the South Perth site previously home to iconic local restaurant Coco's for its second Meat & Wine Co. outlet in WA, due to open in late 2025. There are also plans for a Meat & Wine Co. in Margaret River, as well as three new Hunter & Barrel outlets in the next few years. Perth meat lovers can expect more Meat & Wine Co. restaurants to open in the next few years. Credit: Supplied In 2024, the hospitality business split into SeagrassBHG and Blue Coral Concepts, which oversees more casual dining options Italian Street Kitchen, Ribs & Burgers and the Five Guys burger chain. The West Australian understands that Ribs & Burgers is also poised to refresh and relaunch its Perth restaurant. Seagrass also owns the high-end 6Head steakhouse at Elizabeth Quay. Seagrass chief executive Ravi Singh said in 2024 that the hospitality group was 'bullish about WA', saying there was room in Perth for 6Head, Meat & Wine Co. and Hunter & Barrel. 'All three brands have got a space in the market,' he said. 'Perth is a living example where we've got the three brands within 250m of each other and all three are roaring successes.' Seagrass Boutique Hospitality Group chief executive Ravi Singh. Credit: Supplied / TheWest According to figures provided by Seagrass, Hunter & Barrel's Perth restaurant enjoyed an impressive 21.1 per cent increase in revenue in July to November 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. The total number of patrons dining at the Raine Square diner rose by more than 9 per cent. Meanwhile, Meat & Wine Co. in Perth earned 4.5 per cent more income in the same timeframes with a 2 per cent lift in clientele.
