Latest news with #CulinaryExperience
Daily Mail
24-05-2025
- Daily Mail
The stunning Portuguese escape that's just 3 hours from London and inspired hit movie Casino Royale
FRIDAY 12pm A 30-minute drive from Lisbon airport and I'm at Penha Longa Resort (from £242, Forget its renowned golf courses, I'm here for the pair of Michelin-starred restaurants and, given its spot in Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, forest walks – plus a monastery. 1.30pm Hammock tested (I have a garden suite), it's Mediterranean tapas time at Arola, in the resort. Port pairings at its artisanal chocolate shop follow. The pastel de nata chocs rock. And the sardine-filled ones? I blame the port for my bravery and verdict: 'Ooh, creamy!' 4pm Time to visit the 14th-century monastery to marvel at its architecture and fancy myself as a monk in its kitchen. Next? An 'hour's walk' to recharge my city-weary soul with the magic of the surrounding natural park. Two hours later I'm back, no longer lost, just exhausted. 7pm At Michelin-starred Lab, the taster menu (from £134) is pure theatre: first up, a ceramic cockerel is moved around a table etched with a map of Portugal – where it stops, regional bites are served. Later, geisha dolls proffer oyster tempura, and cured yolk comes gold leafed. SATURDAY 9am After brekkie it's a 15-minute drive to the Portuguese riviera for a boat tour of Cascais bay. We hear of the town's history as a magnet for European royals and – in the war – spies, including James Bond writer Ian Fleming, who found inspo for Casino Royale here. 12pm On to Cascais's cobbled streets and farmers' market, where crockery, clothes and unfeasibly large tomatoes await. Next – call it my starter! – ice cream at Portugal's best-known spot Santinis, then lunch at the marina's Marisco na Praça to mainline lobster rice (£40 for two). 2pm I've never experienced wind like it – standing at Cabo da Roca, a headland known for its gusts and being Europe's western-most point. I try (and fail) to spy New York across the Atlantic, so head to Boca do Inferno (Mouth of Hell), a cave created by the sea's waves. 7pm Dinner is at the resort's Midori restaurant, Portugal's only Michelin-starred Japanese. Hidden behind a secret door and seating just 18, its Japanese flavours with Portuguese soul warrant a hail of chef's kisses (tasting menu from £134). My usual M&S sushi can't compete. SUNDAY 7am It's early but I can't resist another (short!) walk – just me, birdsong and a few robot mowers out there – before yoga in the meditation garden (above). A massage at the spa, a dip in the pool and, go on then, a round of golf before the airport. Crazy golf, that is.
Harpers Bazaar Arabia
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Harpers Bazaar Arabia
Experience A Taste of Italy With Pierchic, Jumeirah Al Qasr
Experience the charm of Italy by the sea with Pierchic's trio of indulgent dining moments As summer rolls in and Dubai's al fresco season comes alive, Jumeirah Al Qasr welcomes the season with curations at Pierchic. Nestled above the shimmering Arabian Gulf, the overwater restaurant sets the stage for a trio of signature Italian experiences crafted by acclaimed Chef Beatrice Segoni. Whether it's a midday escape, golden-hour aperitivo, or a soulful Sunday feast, Pierchic invites guests on a refined culinary journey, inspired by quintessential Italy—simply choose the experience for you. Chic Lunch From Monday to Saturday, Pierchic offers a leisurely Chic Lunch that brings the essence of Italian dining to Dubai's shores. With a set menu that highlights fresh, seasonal ingredients, diners can enjoy starters like creamy burrata, traditional panzanella, or rich fegatini di pollo. Main courses include comforting classics such as fusilli pesto and filetto di branzino al cartoccio, while desserts like tiramisu and panna cotta al frutti di bosco round out the experience. Perfect for an elegant midday escape—whether you're looking to entertain family, impress clients, or simply experience Pierchic's charm beyond its romantic reputation. Aperitivo above the waves For those seeking sunset elegance, ONDA by Pierchic offers a daily aperitivo experience with breath-taking views of the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab. Before the city surrenders to the summer heat, the floating pod is the ultimate spot to catch the last golden sunsets—perfect for pre-dinner drinks and bites amid sea breezes and serene views. Guests can sip on signature cocktails and indulge in light Italian fare, making it a dreamy spot for romantic dates, celebrations, or relaxed reunions. Sundays the Italian way Sundays are reserved for La Domenica Italiana, a heart-warming family-style lunch filled with the rich flavours of Italy. Guests are treated to an abundant spread featuring dishes like lemon chicken thighs with crunchy spinach, homemade gnocchetti alla sorrentina, and tortelli with duck ragout. The immersive experience is elevated by a live three-piece band that brings the spirit of Italy to life through music—a soulful celebration of food and togetherness in a stunning seaside setting.
Yahoo
11-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Acclaimed chef returns to Celtic Manor with new concept
An acclaimed chef has made his return to an iconic Newport resort. Larkin Cen, who reached the finals of MasterChef in 2013, is back at the Celtic Manor Resort, where his culinary journey began. The Cardiff-born chef, who was originally trained as a lawyer, swapped the courtroom for the kitchen after his success on the BBC show. He went on to open Cen at Celtic Manor Resort in 2016, a bold Asian dining concept that quickly earned recognition for its fusion of traditional Chinese flavours and contemporary flair. Following a successful three years at the five-star resort, Larkin expanded his culinary vision by creating his own fast casual noodle and bao bar brand chain, now called XO. He later appeared on The Great British Menu before returning to the Celtic Manor Resort in 2023 with The Monkey King, a pop-up dining experience inspired by the legendary Chinese novel Journey to the West. Nearly a decade since his first venture at Celtic Manor, Larkin returns with a fresh new vision for his residency at the resort's renamed Asian restaurant – PAD by Larkin Cen. Guests can look forward to a vibrant, refined menu, shaped by Larkin's journey from his parents' Chinese takeaway kitchen to national TV screens. A standout feature of the new menu is the Legendary Peking Duck Experience (£60 per person), an indulgent celebration of Peking duck, where the whole duck is served and cooked classically. The à la carte menu also showcases innovative Asian tapas, large plates and a Curries of Asia section plus set sharing menus offering diners the chance to sample a range of Larkin's signature dishes. Chef Larkin Cen said: "Returning to Celtic Manor Resort feels like coming full circle. "My vision has always been to take the traditional dishes I grew up with and elevate them into something beautiful, combining authenticity with creativity. "This new menu is a celebration of classic Asian flavours, presented in a fresh and exciting way and served in the wonderful surroundings of the resort. "I'm looking forward to returning to my roots and picking up where we left off." Celtic Manor Resort operations director David Griffin added: "We're delighted to welcome back such a talented and inspiring chef and look forward to this exciting new chapter in our shared culinary journey with the launch of PAD by Larkin Cen. "We know Larkin will create a truly special dining experience for our guests to enjoy." Larkin's new menu is available at PAD by Larkin Cen, with dinner service available from 6pm to 9.30pm.
