Latest news with #Masterchef
RNZ News
2 days ago
- Business
- RNZ News
Alice Taylor : Budget-friendly winter cooking
With cold weather about to kick in and the need for many of us to keep a close eye on what we are spending, we've invited popular social media chef and writer Alice Taylor to join us to share some hearty recipes and a few money-saving tips. Alice is 25, and lives in Auckland. She was a contestant on Masterchef, she's a trained pastry chef and has worked in some top restaruants including Amisfield, Paris Butter and Baduzzi, but more recently she's been focussing her efforts on cheap, realistic cooking - and it's obviously hitting the mark - Alice now has more than 40-thousand followers on Instagram. Tags: To embed this content on your own webpage, cut and paste the following: See terms of use.
Scottish Sun
2 days ago
- Scottish Sun
Inside stunning hotel with outdoor pool overlooking gorgeous Lake District hidden valley
It also has a spectacular spa, great restaurant and rooms with incredible views Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) AS we crossed the stunning countryside, I was already in the mood to relax in one of the UK's most tranquil areas. My partner Martin and I were on our way to the breathtaking Langdale Valley, tucked away in the heart of the Lake District, one of my favourite destinations. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 11 Stunning Langdale Valley 11 Luxurious Langdale Hotel 11 Sam and Martin enjoying the fresh air in the Langdale Valley Credit: Supplied From the moment we arrived at the Langdale Hotel and Spa, I knew we were in for a few days of pure, unadulterated bliss. Set within a sprawling 35-acre woodland estate and positioned away from the bustling busyness of Keswick, Grasmere and Windermere, it's the ideal location for lacing up your boots and enjoying the many walks on its doorstep. After a quick check in we were dying to get out in the warm sunshine and take in the fresh air. The friendly reception staff were more than happy to recommend some local routes and point us in the right direction. We opted for the Great and Little Langdale Circle, which conveniently starts and finishes at the estate. We were promised spectacular views of the high fells and rugged crags — and it didn't disappoint. The scenery was majestic. After a day exploring, we were ready for some well-deserved post-hike relaxation — and the Langdale Hotel certainly knows how to deliver. Their leisure facilities are second to none, featuring a 20-metre heated pool that's perfect for families. However, as this was a romantic getaway, Martin and I made a beeline for the Brimstone Spa. This chic, adults-only retreat is the ultimate sanctuary for relaxing, reviving and unwinding. We spent hours exploring the different herbal steam rooms, salt saunas and hydrotherapy foot baths. My favourite was the Himalaya Salt Steam room, while Martin preferred the Finnish sauna with views across the estate. 11 The Brimstone Spa has all types of pampering on offer Credit: Supplied 11 Outdoor has views to die for Credit: Supplied 11 The beautiful setting of the Brimstone Spa Credit: Supplied 11 Romantic Stove restaurant We both agreed the highlight was the outdoor pool. An absolute slice of paradise. It's hard to imagine a more idyllic spot. But all this relaxing and pampering does rustle up an appetite and we were rewarded with a superb dining experience at the Stove restaurant. With its floor-to-ceiling windows and locally-sourced menu, it truly hit the spot. It's easy to see why their head chef made it all the way to the Masterchef finals! For starters we shared the salt cod croquettes followed by the char sui monkfish with prawn toast for mains — absolute perfection. To finish, we couldn't resist the hearty bowl of fruit crumble and homemade custard, which still has me dreaming about it. All of this was washed down with a lovely bottle of Merlot in front of the fire pit outside, bellies full and a hearts content. We were staying in the stunning Lakeland Signature room. Bright and airy with a cosy sitting area it was drop dead gorgeous. The enormous rainfall shower and lovely bathroom added to the feeling of total luxury. 11 Incredible waterside rooms at Langdale 11 Sam loved the beautiful bedroom Credit: Supplied After a restful sleep in the enormous, cloud-like bed it was time to shake off the calories with a quick walk, before piling them all on again at breakfast with the vast selection of freshly prepared hot and cold dishes. While it was tempting to linger at the hotel, there's so much more to see and do in the area. Just a short drive away is Ambleside, home to a variety of charming pubs, hotels and cracking wee gift shops. We decided to take advantage of the weather and enjoy the scenery at a slower pace with a cruise down Lake Windermere. Closer to the estate is Wainwrights' Inn, a smashing traditional boozer with a fine selection of local ales and top-notch pub grub. From classic fish and chips, to a mouth watering Cumbrian steak and ale pie, you're spoiled for choice. 11 Wainwright's is worth the walk for hearty but elevated pub grub 11 It's famous for its Cumbrian steak and ale pie Langdale truly is the perfect base to explore the Lake District and all it has to offer. Adventure, relaxation, fine dining and pampering — it ticked all of our boxes. CUMBRIA GO: LANGDALE VALLEY A night in a double room at the 4* Langdale Hotel and Spa in Ambelside, is from £189 including breakfast. See
Scottish Sun
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
BBC Masterchef star closes award-winning restaurant TODAY after ‘unforgettable journey' as he teases ‘final celebration'
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) AN AWARD-winning restaurant owned by a BBC Masterchef star is closing today after an "unforgettable journey". Announcing the news online, chef Ritchie Staisnby teased a "final celebration" before he closes the doors to the much-loved vegan food spot. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 6 BBC Masterchef star has closed his award-winning restaurant Credit: Trip Advisor 6 The vegan restaurants was much-loved in the community Credit: Trip Advisor 6 Ritchie previously appeared on Masterchef Credit: BBC Owners of the restaurant made the decision to shut up shop after admitting "everything is up in the air". Co-owner of Nottingham-based No. Twelve, Ritchie Stainsby built up a strong relationship with his regular customers after starring on Masterchef: The Professionals last year. He runs the restaurant alongside wife Lauren and despite the popular spot being filled up most days, Ritchie has called time on the project. The final farewell will take place on 1 June and is open to all members of the public. Read more on Money TAKING OFF Beautiful airport hotel with bee treasure hunts and fine dining restaurant Tickets are free and the restaurant will be serving heavily discounted booze and food, and will even auction off some of its items. In a post on Instagram the couple said: "This is more than just a party — it's a thank you, a farewell, and a celebration of everything has stood for. "Whether you've dined with us once or a hundred times, we'd love to see your face and raise one last glass together. No dress code — just bring your friends, your appetite, and your best stories. Let's make this a day to remember." News of the closure was announced earlier this year with the TV chef alluding to things being "up in the air" despite being as busy as ever. They said: "We got some sensitive news that's out of our hands. Heartbroken MasterChef star tells of 'lost dream' after shutting award-winning restaurant and warns 'it's bleak' "We have loved doing this and the reason it's coming to an end so abruptly is some personal circumstances for us and those around us that contribute to the restaurant closing. "No. Twelve hasn't failed, to be honest we are busier than we ever have been. "And because we're a couple we guarantee people will think we've split up. Just to clarify we are a happily married couple." He ended the passionate message by saying: "Everything is up in the air at the moment and, even though we don't know what's going to happen, I'm still going to be a chef." The 33-year-old is yet to say what led to the closure of No. Twelve but he did confirm the brand would live on in the form of regular pop-up events. Private dining bookings will also still be available for guests who want to get their tastebuds back with Ritchie's tasty offerings. No. Twelve can be found at Eldon Chambers in a busy part of Nottingham. It was first opened up in 2017 as a small 24-seater cafe in Hounds Gate being the business was transformed into a fine dining restaurant in a converted redbrick Victorian mill, off Wheeler Gate. They specialise in vegan dishes with an imaginative twist that has wowed everyone - including devout meat lovers. Much of the meals form an à la carte menu but there is also a seven-course tasting menu for people to try. 6 The chef said he would carry on cooking Credit: BBC 6 They thanks their fans for the 'unforgettable journey' Credit: Trip Advisor 6 A final closing party will take place on June 1 Credit: Instagram Until today the spot was running as usual to provide diners with a culinary experience they won't forget. Lauren, 29, previously said: "What we want to do over the next three months is celebrate. "One door closes, another door opens. We're going to see it as something positive. "It is sad but we don't want to be sad about it because there is no point. It's been a great journey for us. "I started this when I was 22, now I'm going to be celebrating my 30th here. It's amazing, we've done so well." Ritchie said despite the pair choosing to step away from the business sector for now, they could be convinced back one day. He said if the right investor came in and made an offer which was good enough then they would go into business again. The chef said: "Whilst a change of location seems impossible at the moment, it's not something we'd ever rule out. "The economy, as it is, is tragic for our industry. While there are places opening we often find it's people who have got big backing." It comes after Sunday Brunch star Elliot Kaye and Richie Hayes shared that they would be closing their modern-style greasy spoon. The North London eatery Norman's Cafe had long been a hub for influencers and fashion-forward people looking for a greasy spoon with a difference. Opened by Sunday Brunch chef Elliot Kaye and Richie Hayes, the posh restaurant first opened its doors in 2020. Norman's Cafe began as a sandwich shop before widening its menu to include a range of British classics. Despite its immense popularity, however, the shop's owners announced that it will close its doors in June 2025.
The Sun
3 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
BBC Masterchef star closes award-winning restaurant TODAY after ‘unforgettable journey' as he teases ‘final celebration'
AN AWARD-winning restaurant owned by a BBC Masterchef star is closing today after an "unforgettable journey". Announcing the news online, chef Ritchie Staisnby teased a "final celebration" before he closes the doors to the much-loved vegan food spot. 6 6 6 Owners of the restaurant made the decision to shut up shop after admitting "everything is up in the air". Co-owner of Nottingham-based No. Twelve, Ritchie Stainsby built up a strong relationship with his regular customers after starring on Masterchef: The Professionals last year. He runs the restaurant alongside wife Lauren and despite the popular spot being filled up most days, Ritchie has called time on the project. The final farewell will take place on 1 June and is open to all members of the public. Tickets are free and the restaurant will be serving heavily discounted booze and food, and will even auction off some of its items. In a post on Instagram the couple said: "This is more than just a party — it's a thank you, a farewell, and a celebration of everything has stood for. "Whether you've dined with us once or a hundred times, we'd love to see your face and raise one last glass together. No dress code — just bring your friends, your appetite, and your best stories. Let's make this a day to remember." News of the closure was announced earlier this year with the TV chef alluding to things being "up in the air" despite being as busy as ever. They said: "We got some sensitive news that's out of our hands. "We have loved doing this and the reason it's coming to an end so abruptly is some personal circumstances for us and those around us that contribute to the restaurant closing. "No. Twelve hasn't failed, to be honest we are busier than we ever have been. "And because we're a couple we guarantee people will think we've split up. Just to clarify we are a happily married couple." He ended the passionate message by saying: "Everything is up in the air at the moment and, even though we don't know what's going to happen, I'm still going to be a chef." The 33-year-old is yet to say what led to the closure of No. Twelve but he did confirm the brand would live on in the form of regular pop-up events. Private dining bookings will also still be available for guests who want to get their tastebuds back with Ritchie's tasty offerings. No. Twelve can be found at Eldon Chambers in a busy part of Nottingham. It was first opened up in 2017 as a small 24-seater cafe in Hounds Gate being the business was transformed into a fine dining restaurant in a converted redbrick Victorian mill, off Wheeler Gate. They specialise in vegan dishes with an imaginative twist that has wowed everyone - including devout meat lovers. Much of the meals form an à la carte menu but there is also a seven-course tasting menu for people to try. 6 6 6 Until today the spot was running as usual to provide diners with a culinary experience they won't forget. Lauren, 29, previously said: "What we want to do over the next three months is celebrate. "One door closes, another door opens. We're going to see it as something positive. "It is sad but we don't want to be sad about it because there is no point. It's been a great journey for us. "I started this when I was 22, now I'm going to be celebrating my 30th here. It's amazing, we've done so well." Ritchie said despite the pair choosing to step away from the business sector for now, they could be convinced back one day. He said if the right investor came in and made an offer which was good enough then they would go into business again. The chef said: "Whilst a change of location seems impossible at the moment, it's not something we'd ever rule out. "The economy, as it is, is tragic for our industry. While there are places opening we often find it's people who have got big backing." It comes after Sunday Brunch star Elliot Kaye and Richie Hayes shared that they would be closing their modern-style greasy spoon. The North London eatery Norman's Cafe had long been a hub for influencers and fashion-forward people looking for a greasy spoon with a difference. Opened by Sunday Brunch chef Elliot Kaye and Richie Hayes, the posh restaurant first opened its doors in 2020. Norman's Cafe began as a sandwich shop before widening its menu to include a range of British classics. Despite its immense popularity, however, the shop's owners announced that it will close its doors in June 2025. What is happening to the hospitality industry? By Laura McGuire, consumer reporter MANY Food and drink chains have been struggling in recently as the cost of living has led to fewer people spending on eating out. Businesses had been struggling to bounce back after the pandemic, only to be hit with soaring energy bills and inflation. Multiple chains have been affected, resulting in big-name brands like Wetherspoons and Frankie & Benny's closing branches. Some chains have not survived, Byron Burger fell into administration last year, with owners saying it would result in the loss of over 200 jobs. Pizza giant, Papa Johns is shutting down 43 of its stores soon. Tasty, the owner of Wildwood, said it will shut sites as part of major restructuring plans.
New York Post
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- New York Post
‘Masterchef' contestant caught doing ‘disgusting and unhygienic' cooking blunder: ‘Biggest ick'
Viewers are finding so much to love in this season of 'Masterchef,' complete with iconic contestants and delicious food to make drama-free, feel-good TV. In one of this week's eps, though, eagle-eyed fans officially got the ick from one contestant's simple act. And, it seems it's a recurring thing. 'Total pet peeve of mine' Eagle-eyed 'Masterchef' fans have officially gotten the ick with the show, after seeing a contestant, Theo Loizou, double dip while cooking. Theo was making his dish during the Mystery Box Challenge when he was caught red-handed, tasting it with a spoon, and then putting the spoon back into the saucepan to stir. Eagle-eyed Masterchef fans have officially gotten the ick with the show, after seeing a contestant, Theo Loizou, double dip while cooking. Masterchef One fan in particular took to Reddit to share the news. 'Anyone else notice Theo tasting his purée and then putting the same spoon back into the pot?' they wrote. 'I mean… don't tell I'm the only one! I always catch myself watching out for this, and it drives me nuts when contestants do it. Total pet peeve of mine. Yeesh.' 'I really don't want someone else's saliva in the food I'm going to eat' And, it's clear, everyone is on the same page, with contestants throughout the show's duration being called out for the act. Even former judge Gary Mehigan was exposed back in 2018, after double-dipping while tasting a contestant's dish. 'I think someone posted the same thing every season. I think that a lot of them did this, but got edited out. They might be more careful during team challenges. But I don't know,' said one commenter on Reddit. 'Yes, definitely an ick for me too. Totally fine if you're only cooking for yourself, but not if you're going to serve the food to others. I really don't want someone else's saliva in the food I'm going to eat, that's disgusting and unhygienic and a potential health risk,' another agreed. 'What's with the lack of hygiene?' Some said that health and safety standards on the show had taken a dive altogether. 'I mean… don't tell I'm the only one! I always catch myself watching out for this, and it drives me nuts when contestants do it. Total pet peeve of mine. Yeesh.' Masterchef 'They all do it!! And what's with the lack of hygiene when it comes to hair being open or in your face? That's the biggest ick! I don't know if I am remembering correctly but they all adhered to chef level hygiene standards in the initial years,' one person pointed out. 'Bronk's beard in S15 used to give me hives (not literally). They do follow some basics still, with the full trousers, closed shoes, and no long flowy sleeves bit (Used to get quite worried when Mel would walk around during the cook ). But that's more for safety than hygiene,' another added. 'It's not just reusing the spoon they've put in their mouths though… What about the rings they're wearing on their hands while they're handling foodstuffs or their hair flopping around their face while they cook etc etc. Maybe I'm a bit ocd but I get grossed out about these..' a third agreed. Kidspot has reached out to 'Masterchef' for comment.
