Latest news with #Raoul's
Evening Standard
02-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Evening Standard
Josh Barrie On the Sauce at Cinco: the Pope might have liked it here
And then a drink called doña mago, a tangy, smoky version of a margarita made with raicilla, a Mexican agave spirit from Jalisco in the south-west of the country. Heard of it? Nor me. It was mixed with tomato liquor, plum sake, chilli, tomato and plum cordial. Forgive my blasphemy — but Jesus Christ, what a drink. I've not been this enamoured by something new in a coupe since my first Hemingway daiquiri at Raoul's in Oxford way back in 2008. I see they're on at One Club Row: canny.
New European
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- New European
Josh Barrie on food: The Hemingway's time has come
Years ago, I used to tutor English to Italian youngsters in Oxford for £20 an hour. After a three-hour stint on a Friday, I would take my £60 and walk over the road to Raoul's, an excellent cocktail bar overseen back then by a mixologist called Alex Proudfoot, who is now in Manchester. I have long been enamoured with the Hemingway daiquiri. There are various reasons why. The first is because it was an education. I've never liked sugar in cocktails, even as a teenager, and, after repeat visits wherein I would request something 'not sweet, strong, enlivening' – having long exhausted good options on the regular menu – Alex asked me one late afternoon: 'Have you ever had a Hemingway?' I hadn't. So he made me one. It was a transcending experience. Here was a drink without syrup, sweetened only by the cherry liqueur Maraschino, pumped hard and fast by rum and freshened by grapefruit, tempered by lime. I'll never forget the first time a Hemingway touched my lips. It brought me home. The optimum number is five. It is a strong drink, the Hemingway, and ever since that soft afternoon it has been my firm favourite any time before 11pm, after which I'm more attuned to the possibilities presented by a Manhattan – bourbon, perfect, on the rocks and with a cherry – or the hours between 6 and 8pm during which I quite often favour a Negroni because of its efficiency and ease. Another thing I like about the cocktail is its supposed origin story. So it goes that it came about in 1930s Cuba after the author Ernest Hemingway strolled into a bar called La Floridita to find regular daiquiris being made, one of which he tried, enjoyed, but proclaimed to be too sweet. 'That's good, but I prefer mine with twice the rum and no sugar,' he apparently said. And so came a drink named the Papa Doble – Hemingway was known as 'Papa' in the drinking dens of Havana – which contained four times the rum and twice the lime juice. I've never had one, nor do I want to, as it sounds imbalanced and reckless. The bartender was rightly not content with the author's request. Constantino Ribalaigua Vert moved things on and soon added the grapefruit and the maraschino and the Hemingway we know today came to be. What I find odd is how it remains a little niche. Even at trailblazing places like the Cold Room in Montreal or Mahaniyom in Bangkok, it isn't listed on menus. In classics sections there will always be martinis, Negronis, Old Fashioneds and margaritas but hardly ever Hemingways. Any bartender worth his salt will know how to make one – in Europe, top marks for those at Fidelity in Dublin, Clumsies in Athens, Dr Stravinsky in Barcelona and Bar Bukowski in Amsterdam. In London, Scarfes bar makes the best, at least when the Italian bartender with the curly moustache is in situ. There might be romance to its obscurity. The Hemingway brings about an instant rapport when ordered, maybe because it isn't boring; perhaps it would become boring were it to feature more readily. But then there are also countless occasions where I've asked for one – parched and yearning – and it hasn't been possible. 'No grapefruit juice, sorry'. There have been decent bartenders in proficient locations who didn't know the Hemingway. Some try to Google it, but that never works because making one requires guile even if it sounds simple. I'm writing about Hemingways now because I think the cocktail's time is coming, just as we march towards the 2030s and its centenary looms. But also because London's hottest new opening, One Club Row in Bethnal Green, has listed the drink on its menu. I was surprised and excited to see it. Until now, it's only been on permanently at the Green Bar at Hotel Cafe Royal in London, maybe a couple of others. Naturally, you can get it at Bar Hemingway at the Ritz Paris, so too Nonna Doria's in New York (not the best, but credible). I remember having one somewhere in Milan, but cannot remember where. Likewise, Berlin – but I can't remember anything in Berlin for obvious reasons. Do not think it arriving on one menu to be a stretch. One Club Row is a place where every food and drink fan is going to pitch up, believe me, and rum-soaked waves will swell.
Yahoo
10-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
George Clooney Leaves Fans in Disbelief With Change to His Appearance
Over the weekend George Clooney stepped out in public for a lunch date with wife, Amal Clooney, as the couple dined at Raoul's in New York City - along with friend and attorney Kevin Johnson, according to a report from Page Six. Amal, 47, was spotted in a cropped plaid jacket, oversized sunglasses, bell-bottom jeans and dangling earrings, but it wasn't her appearance that left everyone talking. Clooney, 63, wore a black leather jacket, beige chinos and Adidas sneakers - but once again, his apparel isn't the center of this story. The silver fox traded in his signature salt-and-pepper look ahead of his upcoming role in Good Night, And Good Luck, a Broadway adaptation from the movie of the same name he directed back in 2005. Clooney received best director and best original screenplay nominations from the Academy Awards for his efforts in the film. In the film, Clooney played CBS President Fred Friendly, but will be taking over the leading role as Edward R. Murrow, played by David Strathairn in the film. This time around, the Oscar winner is taking the story to the stage and playing the lead - which required him to dye his hair. Fans had very mixed reactions to the change, with most hoping the new look was part of a role - which is very likely is. "It must be for a film people. This man has never been ashamed of his silver foxes," suggested one fan. "Let's hope it is for a film... otherwise," said another with a barfing emoji. "He looks ridiculous," claimed a third. Clooney told the New York Times back in February that he wasn't thrilled with the idea of dyeing his hair for the role - and neither was his wife. 'My wife is going to hate it because nothing makes you look older than when an older guy dyes his hair,' he joked. 'My kids are going to just laugh at me nonstop.' Preview performances for the play begin this week.
Yahoo
10-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
George Clooney debuts new hair color while out to lunch with wife Amal
George Clooney's got a new 'do. The 'Ocean's Eleven' star debuted a dramatic hair transformation on Sunday while out to lunch with his wife, Amal Clooney. The couple dined at celeb-loved eatery Raoul's in New York City alongside their attorney and friend, Kevin Johnson. Amal, 47, looked spring-ready in a cropped plaid jacket, oversized sunglasses, bell-bottom jeans and dramatic dangling earrings. George, for his part, looked cool in a black leather jacket, beige chinos and Adidas sneakers. The silver fox, 63, traded his signature salt-and-pepper locks for a head of dyed-brown hair ahead of his upcoming role on Broadway. The A-list actor is set to play legendary journalist Edward R. Murrow in 'Good Night, And Good Luck,' an adaptation from the 2005 movie of the same name. George co-wrote, directed and starred in the 20-year-old film; however, he took on a supporting role as CBS President Fred Friendly. This time around, the Oscar winner is taking the story to the stage and playing the lead. The play, which George also co-wrote with Grant Heslov, opens on April 3 but will begin preview performances on March 12. However, the actor previously told the New York Times he wasn't excited about having to dye his hair — and neither was Amal. 'My wife is going to hate it because nothing makes you look older than when an older guy dyes his hair,' he joked. 'My kids are going to just laugh at me nonstop.' George shares 7-year-old twins Ella and Alexander with the human rights lawyer, whom he wed in 2014. Along with changing his look, the 'Wolfs' star also started smoking to get into character as the famed broadcaster, who smoked three packs a day and died from complications of lung cancer at just 57. 'I had to get better at inhaling,' he told the publication. 'I go outside so the kids don't see and smoke a little bit.' However, he plans to switch to herbal cigarettes once he takes the stage next month, which he is admittedly 'terrified' of. 'Are you kidding? I'm doing 11 monologues. When you get older, your recall isn't the same,' he said of his nerves. 'When I was doing 'ER,' it was 12 pages of medical dialogue. You look at it in the morning and you say, 'OK, let's go!' Now you get older and you're going, 'What's wrong with me? Well, don't drink any wine tonight.'' Despite his anxiety, George feels a story about truth and the importance of fact is needed now more than ever. He said the play 'feels more like it's about truth, not just the press. Facts matter.'
Arab News
13-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Arab News
A couple's guide to celebrating Valentine's Day in Saudi Arabia
RIYADH: Valentine's Day is here! Couples in Saudi Arabia can celebrate the day at some of these unique fine dining restaurants, or plan a romantic getaway. Chotto Matte offers a captivating blend of Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine in a stunning setting at KAFD (King Abdullah Financial District). With breathtaking views and an atmosphere enhanced by live shows, it is a perfect spot for a romantic dinner. The special Valentine's menu allows couples to savor innovative dishes while enjoying the city's impressive skyline, making for an unforgettable evening. 'For our first Valentine's Day in Riyadh, we are bringing together the bold flavors of Nikkei cuisine and the indulgence of selfcare. "Guests can enjoy exclusive specials including White Chocolate & Matcha Heart dessert and Mariposa Rosa mocktail, alongside a special collaboration with RITUALS, who are gifting an exclusive wellbeing set. "It's all about celebrating love through taste, ambiance, and a touch of luxury,' said Kurt Zdesar, founder of Chotto Matte. Brute sets the stage for a lively Latin-inspired celebration, featuring a curated menu that highlights the vibrant flavors of Latin America. Priced at SR850 ($226) per couple, this restaurant offers a festive atmosphere with live entertainment and a DJ, ensuring that every moment is filled with joy. Couples can indulge in delicious starters like shrimp chicharron and a classic surf and turf main course, all while enjoying the lively ambiance. Guests at Clap can immerse themselves in a contemporary Japanese dining experience that exudes elegance and energy. For SR950 per couple, the meticulously crafted menu features sushi and sashimi paired with live entertainment. The electric atmosphere, combined with exquisite dishes, makes Clap an ideal destination for couples looking to celebrate their love in style. Scott's, a renowned seafood icon, invites couples to indulge in a romantic four-course menu. The intimate setting, adorned with candlelight and live jazz, creates a perfect backdrop for a memorable evening. Guests can look forward to a heart-shaped dessert that adds a sweet finish to their dining experience, ensuring smiles all around. Bringing a touch of New York to Riyadh, Raoul's offers a charming atmosphere with live music and a carefully crafted menu. Couples can enjoy a delightful dining experience enhanced by the sounds of a live band. The menu features delectable dishes, including creamy risotto with shrimp, and an indulgent chocolate dessert, perfect for a romantic night out. Bador Al-Huthail, who was born and raised in New York, is delighted to be taking his wife to Raoul's on Valentine's Day, and said: 'My wife and I always visited Raoul's when we lived in New York, and now we're continuing that tradition here in Riyadh.' At Nozomi, contemporary Japanese dining meets refined romance. This elegant venue offers an enchanting setting complemented by live music, making it an ideal choice for couples. The menu boasts must-try items like marinated yellowtail and jumbo tiger prawns, ensuring a memorable dining experience filled with flavor and ambiance. Madeo invites guests to savor a Tuscan love story with a curated Valentine's menu that captures the essence of Italian tradition. Couples can enjoy a rich Tuscan-inspired menu in a cozy atmosphere, complete with live music, making it a perfect spot for intimate conversations and indulgent culinary delights. For a unique Swiss dining experience, The Swiss Bistro offers a SR390 set menu for two. Couples can enjoy delicacies like salmon salad, Swiss cheese fondue, and roast beef tenderloin in a charming and rustic setting, perfect for a cozy and romantic evening. Sushi Samba Riyadh invites guests to embark on a culinary adventure on Friday. Priced at SR400 per person, the restaurant offers an optional Valentine's set menu featuring an indulgent lineup of dishes crafted by its executive chef. With live entertainment, including a violinist, and delightful dessert giveaways, Sushi Samba creates a romantic atmosphere that ensures an unforgettable experience. Mohammed Taher, who is taking his wife to Sushi Samba, said: 'My wife loves sushi, and with the stunning view from Sushi Samba in the KAFD area, it's the ideal spot to celebrate Valentine's Day … just the way she enjoys it.' ROKA KSA elevates Valentine's Day celebrations with an exclusive set menu priced at SR295 per person. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional Japanese cuisine, ROKA offers live DJ performances and romantic decor, creating an ambiance perfect for couples looking to celebrate love. Mansard Riyadh features several signature restaurants — Carbone, Sadelle's, and L'Ami Dave — each offering exquisite dining experiences enhanced by romantic settings. From live music to caricature artists, the venue transforms into a haven of love, ensuring that every detail is crafted for an unforgettable evening. For couples seeking a romantic getaway, Jeddah's resorts provide the perfect backdrop for love. Nothing is more enchanting than a trip featuring spa treatments and stunning beach views. The Narcissus Hotel and Spa stands out with its breathtaking view of Jeddah's north coast, offering 60 villas of various sizes, from junior to royal, ensuring a luxurious stay. Another favored location for a quick escape is Durrat Al-Arus, known for its secluded villas that come with private beaches and pools. This bustling resort, popular among locals, offers a variety of activities, making it ideal for families as well. Couples can also explore the breathtaking Harrat Viewpoint in AlUla, which offers stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape. Climbing the impressive terrain of Harrat Uwayrid rewards visitors with breathtaking views of Dadan, AlUla Old Town, AlUla Fort, and AlUla Oasis. The natural beauty provides a romantic backdrop for couples looking to connect with nature and each other.
