Latest news with #Foodies
The Sun
a day ago
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Shoppers go wild for new viral Dubai chocolate product in stores THIS WEEK – but will be limited to just 3 each
LIDL'S highly-anticipated Dubai Style spread has finally hit the shelves - and it's sending customers into a spin. So much so, the bargain retailer has been forced to place a shopping limit on the exotic treat. 1 The Della Sante Dubai Style Chocolate Cream spread combines the flavours of the insanely popular chocolate but in spreadable form. That means you can slather it on toast, pile it onto pancakes, dip fruit in it or even spoon it from the jar. The sweet and salty pots cost £4.99 or £3.99 for Lidl Plus members, which is far more expensive than the store's other chocolate spreads. However, the price tag is not deterring customers, and the shop has implemented a strict three-jar-only policy. One shared a snap of the toast topping on the Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK group. Followers flocked to the comment section to tag friends and family in the post. Lidl has said it will be available "while stocks last" - so you may want to get in quick. When Lidl launched its Dubai-style chocolate bar back in March, shoppers were queuing outside shops to get a taste. The Sun spotted a queue outside the Gosport, Hampshire, store at 8am with shoppers eagerly waiting for the doors to open. Chocolate fans have been going crazy for supermarket dupes of the expensive Dubai chocolate bars and they've been going viral on social media. Lidl's version was the cheapest when it was brought out at £3.99. Foodies race to buy new Dubai chocolate Easter egg in popular supermarket - the 'filling is crazy' and it's selling FAST Before it arrived in stores, the chocolate bar had been available on Lidl's TikTok Shop. It wasn't around for long though as it sold out in a mere 84 minutes. Numerous supermarkets and bargain stores have been jumping on the Dubai-style chocolate trend. One of the most-anticipated was the M&S version, which it turned out was a new take on the viral Big Daddy chocolate bar. The Big Daddy Pistachio is on the pricier end, costing £8.50 for a big 280g bar. Similarly posh supermarket Waitrose also released a version for £10. Sainsbury's started selling a Lindt version of the Dubai-style chocolate for £10. Iceland is selling two different bars: the Nelino Dubai-Style Chocolate (£2 for 62g) and Bolci Dubai Chocolate (£5 for 100g). Bolci's Turkish-made treat is also available at Morrisons. Meanwhile Home Bargains is selling Dubai Chocolate Cookies for the bargain price of £1.25. Why do Aldi and Lidl have such fast checkouts IF you've ever shopped in Aldi or Lidl then you'll probably have experienced its ultra-fast checkout staff. Aldi's speedy reputation is no mistake, in fact, the supermarket claims that its tills are 40 per cent quicker than rivals. It's all part of Aldi's plan to be as efficient as possible - and this, the budget shop claims, helps keep costs low for shoppers. Efficient barcodes on packaging means staff are able to scan items as quickly as possible, with the majority of products having multiple barcodes to speed up the process. It also uses 'shelf-ready' packaging which keeps costs low when it comes to replenishing stock.
Daily Mail
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Nigella Lawson reveals the 'must-visit' Sydney restaurant behind the 'most wonderful meal of my life'
The Sydney restaurant is a firm favourite among off-duty chefs and foodies The TV personality named her top dishes and has already vowed to return Celebrity chef Nigella Lawson has shared a glowing review of a Sydney restaurant for serving 'the most wonderful meal of my life' - and has already vowed to return before she departs Australia. The visiting British food icon dined a week ago at Ester in Chippendale, a trendy restaurant headed up by chef Mat Lindsay that may be a hidden gem - not widely known among the general public but revered by off-duty chefs and serious foodies. The TV personality gushed about Ester for remaining 'unfailingly the most exciting kitchen in the world' after visiting the little-known hotspot with two friends. 'I had the most wonderful meal of my life. I know I say that every time I go to Ester (and it's always true) as each time is a fresh occasion for delight,' Nigella said. The 65-year-old specifically highlighted some of the restaurant's 'exceptional dishes', explaining that her dining experience commenced with 'impeccable' oysters to start. Also on the menu was the 'legendary fermented potato bread with salmon roe and beguiling jelly-topped kefir cream' - a signature dish renowned at the restaurant. Known for taking and sharing pictures of her meals, the culinary icon admitted she was 'too wrapped up in the conversation to photograph everything' that night, but said she did manage to capture some of her favourite dishes. Among the dishes were the 'madly good Sommerlad chicken dumplings - bulgingly plump and sensationally savoury in their rich, smoky broth'. Celebrity chef Nigella Lawson has shared a glowing review of a Sydney restaurant for serving 'the most wonderful meal of my life' Nigella Lawson shared some of the standout dishes from her recent dining experience at Ester, specifically highlighting the 'impeccable oysters' (left) and 'exquisite pippies' (right) Nigella also called out the 'exquisite pippies' as a standout. The TV cook said the seafood dish was served in a 'liquid that tasted saltily like a gravy drunk on its own magnificent meatiness'. To round out the decadent meal, Nigella and her friends enjoyed a 'superbly elegant but winkingly bright crèpe caramel'. If her mouth-watering description of the dishes weren't proof enough, Nigella capped off her post by declaring that she had already made plans to return to the restaurant. 'Have already booked a table for my last night here before I fly back home, as this food is too good not to revisit,' she said. In addition to personally calling out and thanking specific Ester employees, Nigella added that 'everyone affiliated with this miraculous venture does it - and the whole of hospo - great honour, stamping every moment with memorableness and meaning'. The celebrity chef's glowing review also revealed that she'd dined at Ester in esteemed company – sharing the table with Australian novelists Helen Garner and Charlotte Wood. Charlotte, who's known for her novel The Natural Way of Things, replied to Nigella's post by describing the evening as 'a life highlight for several of us at that table'. 'Everything was incredible including star company,' Charlotte said. Nigella Lawson recently visited the award-winning restaurant Ester, which is known for its wood-fired modern Australian fare Nigella concluded her recent decadent dining experience at Ester with this 'superbly elegant but winkingly bright crèpe caramel' ReceipeTin Eats founder Nagi Maehashi also responded to Nigella's post with an elongated: 'Yuuuuuummmm!!!' The beloved Australian food blogger also recommended that Nigella check out Ester's sister restaurant, Poly. 'Get everything on the smalls list,' Nagi advised. The high level of praise that Nigella heaped on Ester should hardly come as a surprise given that she'd previously named it a must-visit when she's in town. The British food icon told Gourmet Traveller earlier this year that the surprising yet delicious creations at Mat Lindsay's restaurant are 'extraordinary'. The award-winning restaurant is known for its relaxed yet stylish interiors and wood-fired modern Australian fare. The World's 50 Best Restaurants panel called it one of Sydney's hottest dining destinations, noting: 'The fit out is minimal, mood informal and selection of wood-fired small plates ruthlessly streamlined. Bag yourself one of the hottest seats in Sydney.' Ester offers an à la carte and set menu for lunch and dinner, with set menus only available on Saturday evenings, starting from $145 per person. The fermented potato bread served with salmon roe and kefir cream (pictured) is a signature dish at Ester Culinary icon Nigella Lawson has been frequenting a number of Sydney food institutions while she's in town, including Fratelli Paradiso, Sean's and Small's Deli Signature dishes include the woodfired oysters with chicken fat butter, the blood sausage sanga, and the fermented potato bread - a dish that chef Josh Niland previously described as a 'timeless masterpiece.' Since arriving in Oz, Nigella has been making the most of her visit by checking out several of Sydney's foodie hotspots. After landing in mid-May, her first port of call was to local institution, Fratelli Paradiso in Potts Point. Sharing the details of her visit to social media, the British culinary queen revealed it was a personal tradition to make it her 'first stop in Sydney'. Nigella also paid a visit to North Bondi beachside restaurant Sean's, describing the venue as a 'perfect Sydney Sunday spot'. But it's not just upmarket dining venues that have caught the celebrity chef's attention. The Domestic Goddess also made a 'customary pilgrimage' to Small's Deli, a hole-in-the-wall sandwich shop in Potts Point. There, she ordered a show-stopping sandwich called The Toto. Describing the 'outrageously good' sandwich, Nigella explained that it's 'spread with lemony butter bean purée and pesto, it's bulgingly stuffed with mortadella and mozzarella, exuberantly sprinkled with chopped toasted almonds, and topped with peppery rocket.' The question on every Sydney foodie's lips is: Which restaurant will Nigella show up to next?
Travel Daily News
27-05-2025
- Travel Daily News
Aer Lingus unveils direct flights from Dublin to Cancún
Aer Lingus launches its first direct Dublin-to-Cancún flights in January 2026, expanding winter sun options and strengthening Ireland-Mexico connections. Aer Lingus announces the launch of its first direct flight to Cancún, Mexico, commencing from January 2026. The new route from Dublin to Cancún will operate 3 times weekly on the airline's A330-300 aircraft, offering Irish holidaymakers a seamless route to the warmth and vibrant cultural heritage of the Mexican Caribbean. This new direct service, operating from 6 January to 29 April 2026, provides an effortless option for those looking to escape the cold Irish winter months, while avoiding the hassle of long stopovers. Cancún, with its balmy weather, golden beaches, and crystal-clear waters has long been a popular destination with Irish travellers, making it a perfect addition to the airline's long-haul portfolio. The appeal of Cancún goes beyond its beaches, the region is also home to the awe-inspiring archaeological sites of El Rey, Ichkabal, Coba, Kohunlich, El Meco, Chichén Itzá, and Tulum, which offer a fascinating glimpse into Mexico's rich heritage. Beyond its stunning landscapes and historical intrigue, Cancún offers Irish foodies a chance to savour the authentic flavours of Mexican cuisine. From the smoky, charred richness of grilled meats to the region's iconic zesty ceviche, Cancún is a haven for food lovers. Whether indulging in local delicacies like Lobster Pizza, Queso De Bola, crispy sweet Marquesitas or savouring freshly made Guacamole, visitors can embark on a culinary adventure that brings Mexico's world-famous flavours to life—offering an experience that has already captivated taste buds across Ireland. Connecting Ireland to Mexico and Beyond This route opens up the potential for travellers from across Europe and the UK to connect seamlessly in Dublin to Aer Lingus' new Cancún route. Already a favourite with honeymooners, Cancún also offers a wide range of family-friendly hotels and resorts catering to all price points. For those hoping for a winter break with a difference, Cancún offers a fantastic alternative for those looking for a hassle-free journey to a culturally rich sunshine hotpot. Lynne Embleton, Aer Lingus Chief Executive Officer, said: 'Our new direct route from Dublin to Cancún introduces a vibrant new destination to our network and further increases Aer Lingus' winter sun offering. Our research highlights a strong appetite amongst customers for new travel experiences, particularly seasonal destinations beyond the peak summer period. Mexico, with its tropical climate, caters to the growing consumer demand for winter sun, while also offering a rich blend of history, culture, and cuisine.' Mara Lezama Espinosa, Quintana Roo State Governor, said: 'Quintana Roo, the Mexican Caribbean, welcomes and celebrates the first direct Dublin – Cancun flight from Aer Lingus. We will work together with our partner Aer Lingus to make this a successful operation!' The announcement of this new route comes as Ireland and Mexico mark the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Carolina Zaragoza Flores, Ambassador of Mexico to Ireland, said: 'In a landmark moment coinciding with the significant 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Mexico and Ireland, the Embassy of Mexico warmly welcomes the commencement of direct flights connecting our two nations. This important development, fuelled by a growing bilateral trade relationship that sees Mexico as Ireland's top trading partner in Latin America and Ireland as Mexico's sixth-largest trade partner within the European Union, will undoubtedly foster even stronger economic ties, and lead toward a strategic partnership. By facilitating increased tourism, business opportunities, and cultural exchange, this direct air link will further enrich the deep and enduring friendship we celebrate this year.' Aer Lingus' new Dublin-Cancún route will not only bring Irish travellers closer to Cancún but will also provide them with an authentic connection to Mexico's vibrant cultural landscape. Whether it's exploring the ancient Mayan sites, enjoying the culinary delights, or immersing oneself in the lively atmosphere of Cancún, this direct flight is the perfect gateway to an unforgettable adventure.
Daily Mail
19-05-2025
- Daily Mail
Kansas fury as Texas takes top BBQ honors
Kansas and Texas have a long-standing, and often fiery, rivalry when it comes to BBQ bragging rights. Texas BBQ is world-famous — especially for its brisket. Central Texas, in particular, has become a mecca for smoked meat lovers. Meanwhile, Kansas City is known for saucy, slow-cooked meats like ribs and burnt ends. It's often seen as more traditional — and locals are fiercely proud of it. So it's no surprise that Kansas foodies were fuming when Austin and San Antonio, Texas, beat out Kansas City for the top spot on Yelp's 2025 list of the top 10 U.S. cities for BBQ . Fans on Reddit claimed Yelp had 'declared war' by ranking Kansas City third. 'KC has to be No 1 or the list is bogus,' one user wrote . Another called the decision 'a slap to the face.' Yelp's rankings were based on a mix of consumer interest, number of BBQ businesses, and average ratings. 'This year's top BBQ cities reflect both regional traditions and rising trends, from Austin's legendary brisket to Honolulu's island-inspired smoked meats,' Yelp's trend expert Tara Lewis told 'Whether you're craving saucy burnt ends in Kansas City or whole hog barbecue in Charleston, these destinations offer more than just great food—they're perfect stops for your next summer adventure.' Memphis, Tennessee came in fourth, followed by Charleston and Greenville, South Carolina. Honolulu, Hawaii, and Tulsa, Oklahoma, also earned high marks, as did Durham, North Carolina, and Nashville, Tennessee. Austin made the top spot for its smoked brisket and flavorful-seasoned foods even though Reddit users believed its number one spot was a 'joke.' It's also the home of restaurants like Franklin Barbecue and Michelin-rated La Barbecue. San Antonio is full of a variety of meat styles on food trucks like Brisket Boys and Cake-N-Que, which specialize in smoked meat. While Texas dominates the list, Kansas City is still known for signature sauces and meats with 'burnt ends.' Some of its memorable selections are available in restaurants like Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que, a fan-favorite eatery with over 3,500 5-star reviews. Restaurant-goers who enjoy dry-rub ribs and pulled pork may prefer Memphis, which fans have praised for allowing local diners to choose between dry and saucy spice-rubbed meats. Consumers in Charleston can enjoy low country-style meats, which are cooked over hardwood coals. Foodies who visit the South Carolina city may enjoy visiting spots like Rodney Scott's BBQ and Lewis Barbecue, which ranked third on Yelp's list of the Top 100 restaurants in the Carolinas two years ago. About three and a half hours outside of Charleston is Greenville, which has its traditional western South Carolina-style BBQ. Not only do places like Henry's Smokehouse and Mike & Jeff's BBQ offer various sauce options, but it's also the home of Bobby's BBQ, a restaurant that makes Texas-style brisket. Customers looking for a taste of the multicultural scene may enjoy Honolulu, which Yelp described as a 'must-visit destination for barbecue fans.' Guests who visit 'The Big Pineapple' have praised barbecue meets at places like Duke's Waikiki and Bob's Bar-B-Que, and its L&L Hawaiian Barbecue restaurant was an honoree in Yelp's 2024 Fastest Growing Brands. Tulsa provides a mix of Oklahoma and Texas-style techniques into its meats, and is the home of top-rated restaurants like Burb Co BBQ, Albert G's, and Bar-B-Q. Meet enthusiasts looking for 'whole-hog barbecue' may enjoy Durham, which has a growing Texas brisket scene and loaded plates at highly recommended places such as Backyard BBQ Pit and Lawrence Barbecue. Rounding out this year's list, Nashville is where guests enjoy its combination of Tennessee barbecue and the state's hot chicken. It also houses restaurants like Bringles Sports Oasis, Martin's Bar-B-Que Joint, and Peg Leg Porker, the last location making last year's list of Yelp's Top 100 Barbecue Spots.
The Sun
10-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Inside world's most tranquil McDonald's in Japanese-themed tea garden
WHILE your local McDonald's is likely located on a high street or in a shopping centre, others have a more unique backdrop. And one McDonald's in Singapore has even been named the world's most tranquil due to its stunning location. 5 Singapore is home to the world's most tranquil McDonald's, which is located inside a Japanese-themed tea garden Credit: x/@AnimeAlchemy24 5 McDonald's patrons can enjoy the scenic Japanese-style garden while enjoying their meal Credit: 5 The iconic McDonald's is located on a pavilion in the middle of Singapore's famous Ridout Tea Garden Credit: x/@marklincadet The McDonald's at Ridout Tea Garden in Singapore boasts zen vibes on a Japanese-style pavilion overlooking a serene river. This unique eatery a has been a prominent landmark in the area since 1989. It was established inside the country's first Japanese-themed community garden and offers picturesque views for diners. Ridout first began as Queenstown Japanese Garden, which was opened in 1970. It became a popular leisure venue for the nearby residents and consisted of 23 shops that sold everything from furniture and sports equipment to clothes and electronic goods. And of course, food and beverages could be purchased at the garden's singular restaurant called Queen's Garden Restaurant, which offered both Western and Chinese cuisines. However, a fire destroyed the property in June 1978, with almost all the shops going up in smoke. The local government invested in rebuilding the location, which was renamed Ridout after the nearby roundabout. But despite the scenic remodel, the space lacked the crowds of Queenstown due to the limited retail and dining options. So in 1981, Kentucky Fried Chicken set up shop in the garden, attracting crowds to the park. McDonald's CEO reveals major 'menu news' as fans cry for snack wrap return McDonald's eventually replaced the fast food outlet in 1989, becoming one of the country's oldest outlets. Open 24 hours, Ridout Tea Garden's McDonald's shares a premises with a Thai restaurant, which closed during the Covid pandemic, and a plant nursery. The single story pavilion features large sliding doors and floor-to-ceiling windows, offering stunning views for customers while dining. It has established itself as a beloved location with residents of the area. Football fans even crowded into the fast food outlet to watch their teams play via a live telecast during the 2010 World Cup. All you need to know about McDonald's The locations has become popular with tourists too, after going viral on Instagram. Described as "tranquil" and a "hidden gem", this McDonald's has a unique outdoor area for families to explore. You can even visit the turtles and fish that inhabit the pond. And of course, Western tourists will be excited to try the different menu options available. You can opt to dine indoors or in a covered over outdoor area with fans during your visit. And this isn't the only awe-inspiring McDonald's out there, you can visit one that has taken up residence inside an abandoned plane. Or if you want to stay closer to home, why not check out the McDonald's built inside a historic pub right here in the UK? 5 The McDonald's is one of Singapore's oldest, having been established in 1989 Credit: 5 Diners can enjoy stunning park views as they dine in the 24-hour McDonald's in Singapore Credit: Reddit
