Latest news with #Vesper
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Business Standard
5 days ago
- Business
- Business Standard
Football's digital frontier is shifting: How UEFA wants to lead charge?
The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) has ignited the engines of change, launching a sweeping evaluation of its over-the-top (OTT) platform, in what could lead to a complete technical reboot. This move signals the governing body's intent to future-proof its streaming presence, potentially replacing its current tech partner, Endeavor Streaming, and reimagining the service from the ground up. From modest beginnings to monumental ambitions which debuted in June 2019 as a free global service, has steadily offered fans a taste of European football beyond the mainstream. Powered by Endeavor's Vesper technology, the platform currently hosts over 250 live events per season, covering youth, women's, and futsal competitions. Now, UEFA is preparing to blow past those numbers, envisioning a quadrupled output of up to 1,000 live events annually. This includes not just matches, but draws, real-time data overlays, and sophisticated enforcement of global geo-rights—all wrapped in layers of DRM and anti-piracy protection. Monetisation mission: Beyond free access No longer content with an ad-supported model, UEFA is actively exploring tiered pay-per-view pricing, including per-match, competition-wide, monthly, and annual payment plans. Also on the agenda: dynamic ad insertions, branded content hubs, and strategic sponsorship integration. The goal? To elevate from free platform to revenue engine, without losing its global reach or integrity. In a strategic move, UEFA has issued a Request for Information (RFI), a precursor to a possible Request for Proposal (RFP). The RFI invites leading tech providers to reimagine the future of while making it crystal clear that nothing is set in stone. "UEFA seeks to gather insights from industry-leading suppliers… whether through enhancing the existing service or transitioning to a new technical partner," the organisation stated. Importantly, UEFA emphasised that the RFI is informational, not contractual. The outcome might be a refinement, or a full supplier switch. Endeavor's position under review Earlier this year, Endeavor Streaming led a user experience refresh, updating interface and expanding its content offerings. But even those enhancements may not be enough to secure their future role. A new agreement, should UEFA move forward with an RFP, would come into effect in April 2026. From niche to necessity: The expansion blueprint While traditionally focused on less mainstream competitions, has shown glimpses of its growing ambition. In early 2024, it streamed Nations League matches for Italian users in English, until Sky Italia swooped in with a third-party deal covering the semis, final, and qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Clock Ticking: Who will stream UEFA's Future? The deadline for RFI submissions is August 22 at noon CET. UEFA plans to issue the full RFP in mid-October, with first-round bids due by December 5. In an increasingly crowded streaming landscape, stands at a crossroads—and the world's biggest tech players may soon battle to control the screen where Europe's future football stories unfold.
Time Out
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out
The Spy Bar
While looking for the Spy Bar, I get lost. Which is, perhaps, the point. Located deep in the bowels of the glossy OWO and Raffles hotel complex – once the HQ of the Ministry of Defence – the Spy Bar trades heavily on its history. Yes, this is the building in which Ian Fleming worked and came up with the idea for James Bond, and they don't let you forget it. The basement bar is behind a door marked with a tiny 007 - it's easy to miss, and we do - twice. It was once a storage vault for the reports and papers of MI5 and MI6 agents, while the entrance lobby was once a guard room. Once inside, we're greeted as an 'agent', but thankfully, this isn't laboured upon. The Spy Bar isn't an immersive experience, but simply a very good place to drink a cocktail. Aside from the real Aston Martin sunk into the wall behind the bar, it's a relatively demure spot; painted brick walls, comfy velvet armchairs and a second room lined with cosy, private-ish booths just asking for a scandal of Profumo levels. It's dimly lit – so much so that a light has to be delivered to our table in order for us to read the menu – but it seems churlish to order anything but a Vesper martini. At £27, it's not cheap, but it is ridiculously smooth, and, when you're halfway finished, a smart, suited bartender will pour the dregs into a glass fresh from the freezer. An elite touch. Cocktails are all loosely themed around Bond and the storied building, with references to Churchill's prodigious booze intake (a 'Whiskey Mouthwash' pays tribute to his habit of knocking back Johnny Walker at 9am). Well worth a visit - if you can find it. Time Out tip Photography is verboten at The Spy Bar - you'll be given a sticker to pop over your camera lens on entry. So if you want a pic, do it at the door before you enter. Order this
Tatler Asia
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Tatler Asia
The best bars for first dates, from the Tatler Best Asia 100 list 2024
Bangkok Photo 1 of 2 The signature spirit-forward Vesper martini (Photo: Vesper) Photo 2 of 2 A candlelit room with European-inspired decor makes up the vibe at Vesper, Bangkok (Photo: Vesper) Awards 2025 Tatler Best Bars Thailand 2024 Tatler Best Bars 2024 Tatler Best Asia 100 Bars Must Try Modern Vesper Classic Vesper Negroni Vesper was established at the dawn of Bangkok's new cocktail culture era, that is, as people realised there needed to be better places for proper cocktails than just stuffy hotel lobby bars. Taking its name from the variation on a classic martini, Vesper initially set out to be a traditional cocktail venue serving mainly those drinks and other timeless classics amid vintage European decor, simple bar snacks and a relaxing atmosphere. But as the scene rapidly developed, so did the bar. Over the past decade, under a range of talented bar managers, it has become known for pushing creative boundaries, playfulness, refreshing reinterpretations and paying innovative homage to the classics. Each launch of a new signature menu is one of the most highly anticipated events in the city's bar scene. Tatler Tip: Candlelit room, European-inspired decor, and spirit-forward tipples. If this particular combination excites both of you, Vesper makes the perfect grounds to test your chemistry. If all else fails, you've got a world-class Vesper cocktail to fall back on. Duxton Photo 1 of 2 Meow Now Brown Cow is Cat Bite Club's irreverent crowd pleaser (Photo: Cat Bite Club) Photo 2 of 2 Cat Bite Club is an agave and rice spirits-focused speakeasy in Singapore (Photo: Cat Bite Club) Awards 2024 Tatler Best Asia 100 Bars Must Try Cat Bite Margarita Soju Sprint Little Italy Agave and rice spirits take centre stage at this speakeasy, where you can savour cocktails celebrating the craftsmanship and tradition of these Mexican and Asian beverages. Founded by Gabriel Lowe and Jesse Vida, the club is easy to miss, its presence indicated by a glowing red sign with a mischievous Cheshire cat's grin. The Cat Bite Margarita—perhaps the best margarita in Singapore—is an epic celebration of agave made with Código 1530 blanco tequila, Siete Misterios espadín mezcal, Cointreau, a fresh citrus blend, sherry and agave nectar. It is the perfect balance of floral, citrus and tangy flavours to wake the appetite. Or go with the Soju Sprint, a tribute to rice spirits made with Tokki soju, peach, honey, mint, a fresh citrus blend, sherry, absinthe and soda. Tatler Tip: Sweeten up your date with the irreverent crowd pleaser, Meow Now Brown Cow. This sure-fire liquid icebreaker is recently updated, treating all to indulgent flavours of banana, coffee and vanilla. Taipei Photo 1 of 2 The Saketini is perfect for slow sipping and inspired chats (Photo: Chiu Xiang Sake Bar) Photo 2 of 2 Chiu Xiang Sake Bar blends the warmth of a home, the creativity of an art gallery and the comfort of a café (Photo: Chiu Xiang Sake Bar) Awards 2024 Tatler Best Asia 100 Bars Must Try Special sake cocktails Saketini Bloody Mary crafted with sake Chiu Xiang Sake Bar blends the warmth of a home, the creativity of an art gallery and the comfort of a café. Created by former art world professional Mengmeng and bartender Xiao Qiu, it was born from the former's love of sake; after discovering the drink, she was captivated by its sweetness and drinkability, and decided to immerse herself in studying it. The space reflects this, filled with sake from different moments, books and keepsakes from travels. The bar offers 20 to 30 unique sakes, handpicked by the owners, as well as sake-based cocktails. Tatler Tip: The drink menu is tucked inside a poetry book. Take time to admire the curated artworks and ask the bartender for a classic cocktail with a sake twist. Think Saketini, perfect for slow sipping and inspired chats. In case you missed it: The best restaurants in Asia for the wine-obsessed, according to the Tatler Best Asia 100 list 2024 Chiu Xiang Sake Bar Address: 132 Section 4, Xinyi Road, Da'an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106 Map Call Hours FB IG Bukit Damansara Photo 1 of 2 Reka:Bar distils mixology into an art form as well as a science (Photo: Reka:Bar) Photo 2 of 2 Watermelon sugar high combines sake with watermelon shrub and tarragon (Photo: Reka:Bar) Awards 2025 Tatler Best Malaysia: Best Design 2025 Tatler Best 20 2024 Tater Best Asia 100 Bars Must Try Liquid Ambra Nost Stirred Dusun 2.0 Reka:Bar distils mixology into an art form as well as a science. Since its debut in 2021, the bar has consistently championed the use of local produce and offbeat combinations in a thoughtfully developed drinks programme. Its Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat menu celebrates four foundations integral to the creation of an exceptional dish. A signature from this menu is the Pistapple Passion, crafted with pistachio distillate, brandy and clarified coconut. The Domino Effect V2 menu showcases the versatility of Asian flavours, combining sake with watermelon shrub and tarragon in its Watermelon Sugar High and infusing bourbon and rum with salted caramel and oolong milk tea in its Cloud & Clear. Tatler Tip: The playful drinks are sure to set the scene for the ideal first encounter. Park yourselves at the bar counter that offers just the right amount of privacy, complemented by unintrusive hospitality. Reka:Bar Address: 67M, Jalan Setia Bakti, Bukit Damansara, 50490 Kuala Lumpur Map Call Email Hours FB IG $ $ $ $ | Makati Photo 1 of 2 Lounge by the intimate, dimly lit bar with cheeky, meticulously crafted cocktails (Photo: The Curator) Photo 2 of 2 The Curator is known to host highly anticipated guest shifts throughout the year (Photo: The Curator) Awards 2025 Tatler Best 20 Philippines 2024 Tatler Best Asia 100 Bars Must Try Salu salo Pandesal Gypsy Fizz This intimate, dimly lit bar's many regulars have come to expect cheeky, meticulously crafted cocktails, complete with flavour diagrams to help them navigate the menu. On the off-chance it's not one of your friendly Curator mixologists tending the bar, you'll likely find a seasoned veteran from another prestigious bar, as this haunt is known to host highly anticipated guest shifts throughout the year. Before nightfall, this neighbourhood favourite also functions as a café, specialising in expertly made coffee beverages and, more recently, matcha sourced from Japan. Tatler Tip: When in doubt, always choose the espresso martini; The Curator's cheeky version is a riff on Pandesal (a staple soft roll in the Philippines), promising rich creamy textures and accents of nutmeg. And if your date turns out to be a bore, trust the extremely hospitable staff to strike up a conversation. The Curator Coffee & Cocktails Address: UG/F Legazpi Parkview Condominium, 134 Legazpi Street, Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines Map Call Email Web FB IG Macau Photo 1 of 2 The Macallan Whisky Bar & Lounge exudes a dark, moody charm that's instantly warmed by the presence of a fireplace (Photo: The Macallan Whisky Bar & Lounge) Photo 2 of 2 For something interactive, consider a flight of finest vintages where couples get to unravel different Macallan expressions (Photo: The Macallan Whisky Bar & Lounge) Awards 2024 Tatler Best Asia 100 Bars Must Try Macallan Expressions Through Time Smooth 'Stache Crystal Island The Macallan Whisky Bar & Lounge exudes a dark, moody charm that's instantly warmed by the presence of a fireplace and the soulful sounds of a live band. Blending the essence of a traditional Scottish public house with refined elegance, the space features oak floors, leather sofas and beautifully patterned rugs. Stag antlers and a crystal chandelier add a touch of grandeur, while more than 400 malt whiskies, including rare selections from the Macallan distillery, are displayed proudly. Beyond whisky, guests can enjoy a curated selection of champagne, wine and cocktails. Whether settling in for a quiet evening or soaking up the live music, the inviting ambience and attention to detail make it a perfect destination for a refined yet relaxed night out. Tatler Tip: Cosy up at the fireplace and let the gentle crackle warm up the amorous evening over a dram of vintage Scotch whisky. For something interactive, consider a flight of finest vintages where couples get to unravel different Macallan expressions. The Macallan Whisky Bar & Lounge Address: 203, 2/F, Galaxy Hotel, Galaxy Macau, Estrada da Baía de Nossa Senhora da Esperança, Cotai, Macau, China Map Call Book Hours Web IG
Eater
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Eater
The 16 Coldest Martinis in Miami
View as Map Miami's love affair with coffee makes the espresso martini an understandable favorite, but as its palate matures, the classic martini has become the new 'it' drink in town. From the clean, bracing simplicity of a well-chilled gin martini to the briny indulgence of a dirty version loaded with olives, Miami's bartenders are putting their spin on this timeless icon. Here are the best spots to order one. Locations are listed from east to west. Read More Eater maps are curated by editors and aim to reflect a diversity of neighborhoods, cuisines, and prices. Learn more about our editorial process. If you buy something or book a reservation from an Eater link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics policy. A South Miami staple since the 1940s, locals mourned when it closed in 2015 and celebrated its return in 2022 — classics intact, including the signature ice-cold martini with a sidecar. The dark, cavernous feel adds to its charm, and dishes like the Original Thumb Bits (seared tenderloin tips with au jus served over toasted baguette slices) are a happy throwback in time. This popular bistro from acclaimed chef Thomas Keller serves a martini inspired by the Vesper, the cocktail Ian Fleming created for James Bond. Made with gin distilled with olives, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary, the Bistro Martini leans into a distinctive Mediterranean flavor, and while it isn't shaken as Bond would prefer, stirring it 50 times ensures it is ice cold. Sip it on the newly opened patio — a stylish space that's ideal for lingering over a well-made drink. Order — what else — the house Gibson, a crisp, bracing martini that swaps olives for pickled onions, adding a tangy, savory edge to the classic. At the Gibson Room, it's elevated with a dash of dry sherry for a subtle nutty note, and served tableside from a Japanese shaker tin into a chilled glass. Two pearl onions round it out, offering just the right bite. This dimly lit bar, part of chef Michael Beltran's portfolio, sets the mood for indulgent pairings like maduros fondue with blue cheese and black garlic or bone marrow with buttermilk biscuits. Martini lovers flock to this newcomer from the team behind the now-shuttered Jaguar Sun, once known for some of the city's best cocktails. Here, the martini is a choose-your-own-adventure experience, with options for spirit, style (dry, 50/50, dirty, and filthy), and garnish (don't pass up the house blue cheese olives). Not in the mood to decide? Go for the Sunny's Martini, made with freezer gin and manzanilla sherry. This new addition to the Brickell bar scene may be a bit tricky to find (look for the unmarked door on the second floor of Mary Brickell Village), but it's well worth the effort. As the name suggests, this upscale speakeasy specializes in cocktails inspired by the Americas. The Taco Martini, made with tequila, avocado, grilled jalapeño oil, and a liqueur crafted from heirloom Mexican maize is as fun as it is flavorful. Head to the second floor of the Citadel food hall to experience one of the city's top bars, where under the glow of red lights, imbibers sip cocktails named after mythical beasts. The martini, dubbed 'Tarasca' after the Andalucian dragon said to summon storms and hail, is a sleek, silky mix with dill, cardamom, and a hint of olive oil — a combination that's unexpected and bold. Sign up for our newsletter. This longtime favorite edgy Vietnamese just rolled out a new martini lineup, with each of the four creations crafted by a different member of the bar team. Dubbed 'A Tini With A Snack,' the menu includes the Madame Ho Chi Minh, a Gibson-style martini with red bell shrub, paired with crispy pickled onion wonton, and the Golden Child, made with tequila, green chili, and served with crispy goat cheese stuffed olives. There's also the Dragon's Lair, which brings sake into the mix and comes with a side of wasabi peas. Chef Massimo Bottura, renowned for his three-Michelin-starred Osteria Francescana in Modena, brings his signature edgy Italian fare to Miami with this rooftop restaurant, perched atop Julia & Henry's food hall. Among its inventive cocktails, the Nuovo martini, made with Parmesan-infused vodka, walnut bitters, and Parmesan garnish, is a savory stunner that pairs beautifully with pasta. This lively aperitivo bar from Valentino Longo (formerly of the Champagne Bar) landed a James Beard finalist nod for Best New Bar less than a year after opening. Among several martini variations, a favorite with regulars is the Martini Doppio—a clever mashup of a dirty martini and a Gibson. Blending both French and Italian vermouth and topped with a cocktail onion steeped in sherry vinegar, oregano, and thyme, it hits a sweet-savory balance that's hard to beat. Pair it with one of the pizzas — some of the best in town. For a martini with a view, head to this local favorite helmed by iconic chef Michael Schwartz. With sweeping vistas of Biscayne Bay and Miami's skyline, the Lupe Martini stands out with its floral, refreshing notes, thanks to a blend of Italian lemon liqueur and L'Aperitivo Nonino, a bittersweet, citrus-forward aperitif. It's the ideal sip for watching the sunset while snacking on Schwartz's famous yuca puffs. This dark, retro bar in Miami Beach feels like a scene straight out of Miami Vice — if Don Johnson's character stumbled into a spot with top-tier cocktails and seriously good bar snacks. While there are several martinis on offer, the Bread Service Martini is a favorite. Served freezer-style (pre-batched and stored ice-cold for zero dilution) and paired with a buttery croissant, it's a match made in heaven. Those craving a classic Miami experience shouldn't miss this legendary spot. Known for its seasonal stone crabs and surprisingly good fried chicken (one of the best-kept secrets in town), both pair beautifully with an ice-cold martini. The ample martini menu spans flavors like key lime, lychee, and Godfather Sour, among others. For a sampler, stop by the bar Mondays through Thursday from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. for happy hour to enjoy the Tiny Tini cocktails. The martini is a cocktail made with gin and vermouth, so what better place to enjoy one than at a bar dedicated entirely to gin? It's expertly made using gin infused with hojiblanca olives, nutty, fino sherry, dry vermouth, and finished with a saline solution for a briny edge. Pair it with the array of Spanish tapas, like jamon iberico de bellota, boquerones, or Manchego, for a perfectly balanced bite. Whether kicking off the night or winding it down, a stop at the Greystone Bar is always a good call. This sultry hideaway sets the tone with dim lighting and a touch of old-school glamour, making it the perfect backdrop for a S'il Vous Plaît martini. Shaken with Botanist gin, Amaro Montenegro, and Lillet Blanc, it's a herbaceous twist on the classic, with just enough bite to keep things interesting. For purists, the traditional version is just as satisfying, and both pair perfectly with the bar's smash burger and live jazz. Water Lion Wine + Alchemy Whether it's the gracious owners, shuck-to-order oysters, or the welcoming escape from the Miami chaos, this unpretentious bar tucked inside the Sagamore Hotel always hits the mark. While known for its extensive wine and sake collection, the real standout is the Dirty Pickle Martini. Made with briny, in-house pickles — a recipe so beloved it inspired the former bartender to launch his own local brand, Fancy Schmancy Pickles — this savory sip features a medley of over 11 vegetables, including radish, daikon, cauliflower, okra, cucumbers, and beets, with just a dash of olive brine. Le Sirenuse Restaurant & Champagne Bar Those seeking a martini with a side of glamour should head to this stunning bar inside the historic Surf Club, an oceanfront retreat that once drew the who's who of Hollywood and high society. While best known for its champagne, the martinis here hold their own — from the house version with a dash of orange bitters to the inventive Mango Olives, made with gin infused with toasted Arborio rice, clarified mango puree, Japanese rice spirit, and a touch of olive brine. © 2025 Vox Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Link copied to the clipboard. A South Miami staple since the 1940s, locals mourned when it closed in 2015 and celebrated its return in 2022 — classics intact, including the signature ice-cold martini with a sidecar. The dark, cavernous feel adds to its charm, and dishes like the Original Thumb Bits (seared tenderloin tips with au jus served over toasted baguette slices) are a happy throwback in time. Open in Google Maps Foursquare This popular bistro from acclaimed chef Thomas Keller serves a martini inspired by the Vesper, the cocktail Ian Fleming created for James Bond. Made with gin distilled with olives, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary, the Bistro Martini leans into a distinctive Mediterranean flavor, and while it isn't shaken as Bond would prefer, stirring it 50 times ensures it is ice cold. Sip it on the newly opened patio — a stylish space that's ideal for lingering over a well-made drink. Order — what else — the house Gibson, a crisp, bracing martini that swaps olives for pickled onions, adding a tangy, savory edge to the classic. At the Gibson Room, it's elevated with a dash of dry sherry for a subtle nutty note, and served tableside from a Japanese shaker tin into a chilled glass. Two pearl onions round it out, offering just the right bite. This dimly lit bar, part of chef Michael Beltran's portfolio, sets the mood for indulgent pairings like maduros fondue with blue cheese and black garlic or bone marrow with buttermilk biscuits. Open in Google Maps Foursquare Martini lovers flock to this newcomer from the team behind the now-shuttered Jaguar Sun, once known for some of the city's best cocktails. Here, the martini is a choose-your-own-adventure experience, with options for spirit, style (dry, 50/50, dirty, and filthy), and garnish (don't pass up the house blue cheese olives). Not in the mood to decide? Go for the Sunny's Martini, made with freezer gin and manzanilla sherry. Open in Google Maps Foursquare This new addition to the Brickell bar scene may be a bit tricky to find (look for the unmarked door on the second floor of Mary Brickell Village), but it's well worth the effort. As the name suggests, this upscale speakeasy specializes in cocktails inspired by the Americas. The Taco Martini, made with tequila, avocado, grilled jalapeño oil, and a liqueur crafted from heirloom Mexican maize is as fun as it is flavorful. Head to the second floor of the Citadel food hall to experience one of the city's top bars, where under the glow of red lights, imbibers sip cocktails named after mythical beasts. The martini, dubbed 'Tarasca' after the Andalucian dragon said to summon storms and hail, is a sleek, silky mix with dill, cardamom, and a hint of olive oil — a combination that's unexpected and bold. This longtime favorite edgy Vietnamese just rolled out a new martini lineup, with each of the four creations crafted by a different member of the bar team. Dubbed 'A Tini With A Snack,' the menu includes the Madame Ho Chi Minh, a Gibson-style martini with red bell shrub, paired with crispy pickled onion wonton, and the Golden Child, made with tequila, green chili, and served with crispy goat cheese stuffed olives. There's also the Dragon's Lair, which brings sake into the mix and comes with a side of wasabi peas. Open in Google Maps Foursquare Chef Massimo Bottura, renowned for his three-Michelin-starred Osteria Francescana in Modena, brings his signature edgy Italian fare to Miami with this rooftop restaurant, perched atop Julia & Henry's food hall. Among its inventive cocktails, the Nuovo martini, made with Parmesan-infused vodka, walnut bitters, and Parmesan garnish, is a savory stunner that pairs beautifully with pasta. Book with OpenTable Book with OpenTable Open in Google Maps This lively aperitivo bar from Valentino Longo (formerly of the Champagne Bar) landed a James Beard finalist nod for Best New Bar less than a year after opening. Among several martini variations, a favorite with regulars is the Martini Doppio—a clever mashup of a dirty martini and a Gibson. Blending both French and Italian vermouth and topped with a cocktail onion steeped in sherry vinegar, oregano, and thyme, it hits a sweet-savory balance that's hard to beat. Pair it with one of the pizzas — some of the best in town. For a martini with a view, head to this local favorite helmed by iconic chef Michael Schwartz. With sweeping vistas of Biscayne Bay and Miami's skyline, the Lupe Martini stands out with its floral, refreshing notes, thanks to a blend of Italian lemon liqueur and L'Aperitivo Nonino, a bittersweet, citrus-forward aperitif. It's the ideal sip for watching the sunset while snacking on Schwartz's famous yuca puffs. Book with OpenTable Book with OpenTable Open in Google Maps Foursquare This dark, retro bar in Miami Beach feels like a scene straight out of Miami Vice — if Don Johnson's character stumbled into a spot with top-tier cocktails and seriously good bar snacks. While there are several martinis on offer, the Bread Service Martini is a favorite. Served freezer-style (pre-batched and stored ice-cold for zero dilution) and paired with a buttery croissant, it's a match made in heaven. Those craving a classic Miami experience shouldn't miss this legendary spot. Known for its seasonal stone crabs and surprisingly good fried chicken (one of the best-kept secrets in town), both pair beautifully with an ice-cold martini. The ample martini menu spans flavors like key lime, lychee, and Godfather Sour, among others. For a sampler, stop by the bar Mondays through Thursday from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. for happy hour to enjoy the Tiny Tini cocktails. Open in Google Maps Foursquare The martini is a cocktail made with gin and vermouth, so what better place to enjoy one than at a bar dedicated entirely to gin? It's expertly made using gin infused with hojiblanca olives, nutty, fino sherry, dry vermouth, and finished with a saline solution for a briny edge. Pair it with the array of Spanish tapas, like jamon iberico de bellota, boquerones, or Manchego, for a perfectly balanced bite. Whether kicking off the night or winding it down, a stop at the Greystone Bar is always a good call. This sultry hideaway sets the tone with dim lighting and a touch of old-school glamour, making it the perfect backdrop for a S'il Vous Plaît martini. Shaken with Botanist gin, Amaro Montenegro, and Lillet Blanc, it's a herbaceous twist on the classic, with just enough bite to keep things interesting. For purists, the traditional version is just as satisfying, and both pair perfectly with the bar's smash burger and live jazz. Whether it's the gracious owners, shuck-to-order oysters, or the welcoming escape from the Miami chaos, this unpretentious bar tucked inside the Sagamore Hotel always hits the mark. While known for its extensive wine and sake collection, the real standout is the Dirty Pickle Martini. Made with briny, in-house pickles — a recipe so beloved it inspired the former bartender to launch his own local brand, Fancy Schmancy Pickles — this savory sip features a medley of over 11 vegetables, including radish, daikon, cauliflower, okra, cucumbers, and beets, with just a dash of olive brine. Open in Google Maps Foursquare Those seeking a martini with a side of glamour should head to this stunning bar inside the historic Surf Club, an oceanfront retreat that once drew the who's who of Hollywood and high society. While best known for its champagne, the martinis here hold their own — from the house version with a dash of orange bitters to the inventive Mango Olives, made with gin infused with toasted Arborio rice, clarified mango puree, Japanese rice spirit, and a touch of olive brine. Open in Google Maps Foursquare
BBC News
19-05-2025
- General
- BBC News
Parents desperate to see 'lifeline' Sherwood library opened
"A lot of parents like me rely on libraries like that so we can use the facilities."Jamie, 39, says he is frustrated the new Sherwood library in Nottingham - which was supposed to open in 2024 - has still yet to welcome book city council says there are dozens of problems that still need to be resolved by the developer and it still cannot give a date for its a single dad working a minimum wage job, Jamie said being able to use a free facility this summer would take a "massive burden off" him financially. "Libraries have always been a good space," he said. "Regardless if you're an adult or not, if you're working or not, they've always been like a hub in a way."He said having a library around the corner would reduce the cost and time of commuting and allow him to spend more quality time with his daughter. "[Vesper] loves reading, it's one of her favourite activities and we've instilled it from a young age," he Jamie said having to go to a library further away had turned it into a special occasion journey rather than a part of their daily or weekly routine."I'm very limited what I can do with [my time] because I work quite a lot of hours," he said."When I do have free time, it's very awkward timings, so it would be nice to use a local little base."He added that he knew a lot of people in the community struggling with the cost of living crisis, who would also benefit from the free activities the library could offer. 'Absolute lifeline' Sara Anderson, 35, is a support worker who took her now seven-year-old son to the old library before it was condemned and closed several years described the the weekly sessions for toddlers and babies as "an absolute lifeline"."It was a free resource, which when you're trying to entertain a kid, keep yourself busy, and getting out of the house on maternity pay, you know, it was a great help," she said."The [alternative sessions] do cost a lot of money, and just having that available and knowing that I didn't have to spend that... it was something that I could rely on going to." Ms Anderson said as a support worker she knows that the library reopening would benefit "the whole community", not just children."A lot of [service users] don't have access to technology, so having access to those computers and things, we would take them and upskill them and give them a bit of knowledge and a bit of confidence," she said she felt "lied to" about the progress on Sherwood Conway, from Nottingham Save Our Services, said it was "important" that people had access to a library in their community, and described the continued wait as unacceptable."If that [the building] was a library book, by now, the late fine would be absolutely extortionate," he said. A Freedom of Information request (FOI) shared with the BBC identified 61 outstanding problems Nottingham City Council is waiting for the developer to resolve before the library can Sam Lux said the authority had been in conversation with the developers and the new owners of the site, adding it was not a "straightforward direct build contract just for the library".She said: "In terms of the library area specifically, we are taking a number of specific steps to ensure the build does meets our standards but as you can appreciate, the council needs to reserve its position regarding any legal remedies available to us on this, but we are considering all options."In the light of progress made to date it is difficult at this time to give clear timescale for the re-opening of the library."The library service team and I want to make this operational as quickly as is possible but will not do so if the building is not certified as safe and fit for operation." 'No delay' Hockley Developments said all floors of the building were "successfully handed over to tenants in late 2023".The firm added the council's problem list had been replied to on 2 May and its responsibilities as the building contractor had "been dealt with apart form a handful which would not impact the fit out of the library".A company spokesperson said: "We believe there is nothing now, from our build contractor's side, delaying the library opening."We shall continue to provide support to the building owner and tenants where we can."The building owner, Bassi Properties Ltd, confirmed it had no involvement in the construction or operation of the library.
