Purists may baulk at the notion of a vegetable-based pho, but pho chay, the vegetarian version of the Vietnamese national dish, can be a deeply hearty, savoury affair. Dried wood ear mushrooms bringing plenty of umami, whilst ginger, spring onions, soy sauce, and spices add deeper layers and plenty of warmth.
Vegetarian pho, or pho chay, originated from the Buddhist cuisine of Vietnam, where monks adapted traditional meat-based pho by creating imitated beef, chicken, and vegetarian broths.
Influenced by Buddhist principles of ‘ahimsa’ or non-violence, pho chay avoids not only meat but also root vegetables and strong-smelling plants like onions and coriander. This results in a distinct version of pho that lacks the familiar aroma and flavour of traditional pho, but is still a delicious bowlful.
Here’s where to find some of the best pho chay in the city…
Pho Chay
Ideal for an unassuming yet exemplary vegetarian pho…
Area: Hai Ba Trung District
The restaurant, on the same strip as the original Pho Thin from earlier, doesn’t look like much from the outside. But then, not many pho shops do, exactly. Pho Chay is particularly unassuming, so narrow and branded in the same yellow-and-green as a famous local bank that we thought it was an ATM on our first visit.
Step over the threshold and pull up one of just four stools, and order a baby or big bowl. Whichever size you go for, this one is defined by the popular meat alternative seitan, which here does a fine job of masquerading as beef. Plenty of deep fried treats (tofu, slices of quay akin to croutons…that kind of thing) bring a much-needed sense of textural contrast. The salted lime drink here is as refreshing as it comes on a hot Hanoian day. Mmm, electrolytes…
We’ve already spoken about Pho Suong’s legendary beef pho before on IDEAL. Well, they also do a great vegan beef pho, clearly stating that no animal has been used, which is reassuring in a country that sometimes plays a little loose with the whole ‘chay’ description.
Billing it as a bowl for everyone, the cooks here say that “if you’ve had enough of salty dishes, then the delicious and thick vegetarian pho is very suitable to cleanse your body between those daily meals of fish and meat”.
Again, perhaps the idea of a vegan diet hasn’t been totally taken onboard, but this Pho Suong’s pho chay is a satisfying thing whichever way you look at it.
Christmas morning… For children, it’s unsurpassed for magic, sparkle and spectacle, with stockings to unpack, presents to open, Santa to spot and an intense level of excitement that makes sleeping a single wink the night before impossible.
But for adults, Christmas morning tells a very different story; one of hangovers and trepidation, of enduring small talk and a longing for lunch to begin.
Reconnect with your childlike wonder over Christmas and make the morning as enjoyable as the rest of the day. If you’re looking to change things up on your usual Christmas day, start with these; our 5 ways to make Christmas morning even more special.
DO ALL YOUR FOOD PREP IN ADVANCE
First things first, if you want to enjoy Christmas morning, you don’t want to be stuck in the kitchen, slaving away at the stove and checking your watch nervously. Instead, get ahead with these preparatory steps:
Prepare your cranberry and bread sauce a month in advance and freeze it.
Make a gravy master stock with plenty of flavour in the weeks leading up to Christmas Day. Then, you can whip out on the day; simply add the juice from the turkey on the day and whisk in some cold cubes of butter for a delicious and hassle free gravy.
Pigs in blankets and stuffing balls can be made in advance and frozen, too.
If you’re looking for easy ways to pimp up your vegetables quickly, consider a bacon butter made ahead of the day.
Peel all of your potatoes on Christmas Eve and keep them in water in the fridge overnight.
Brine your turkey on Christmas Eve. Then, even if you forget to baste it regularly the next day, it’ll still be super juicy and tender.
You could even lay the dining table the night before.
By preparing in advance, there will also be less cleaning and washing up to do on Christmas morning, leaving you to enjoy the start of the day with a glass of fizz in hand. Remember, successful and unstressed little elves will always do some prep work ahead of time!
BEGIN WITH AN EXTRA SPECIAL CHRISTMAS COFFEE
To get into the spirit of the day, why not add in some festive ingredients that can spice up your usual morning beverage. Whether you want an indulgent, creamy texture or a buzz of something stronger, Christmas morning should be all about indulgence. So, turn the festive frivolity up several notches by topping your mug with plenty of sprinkles and lashings of whipped cream.
You can really get into the Christmas spirit by infusing the flavours of the festive season into your coffee, too. Consider toasting some star anise, cinnamon and cloves, then letting them steep in your pot of coffee for a few minutes as it brews, blessing it with festive flavour. Or, add a shaved curl of orange peel and a grating of nutmeg to your mug.
If you’re looking to go that extra mile and recreate your favourite Starbucks Christmas coffees, such as the Toffee Nut Latte, Gingerbread Latte and Eggnog Latte, at home, then check out our article on how to do just that here.
A Christmas morning breakfast needs to set you up for the day, with something hearty, generous but not too meaty (you don’t want to spoil the turkey later, of course). How about a smoked salmon bagel with poached eggs and hollandaise for an extra special start to proceedings that won’t fill you up too much? Or, on the sweeter side of the spectrum, we think a slice of this cranberry and orange drizzle cake paired with some fresh fruit sounds rather delicious!
This should be washed down with a Buck’s Fizz; a Christmas morning staple, if ever there was one. Simply mix two parts sparking wine with one part orange juice, the fresher the squeezed orange juice, the better the result. However, if you’re not keen on orange juice, Prosecco with pomegranate juice is arguably even more refreshing.
A CANAPE & CHRISTMAS DRINKS MORNING
Christmas morning, soundtracked by the laughter of good friends and family (and Wham!), and scented with mulled wine… What could be better? If you have loved ones who live nearby, consider asking them around for canapes and Christmas drinks to kick the morning off right.
Of course, you don’t want to be rushing around in the morning actually making the canapes. If you’d like to impress your guests with your cooking skills, simply make lots of little bites in advance that you can cook from frozen; think onion bhajis, samosas, spring rolls, and cheese gougeres. Or, for ease, no one’s judging you for sticking a few Iceland party food platters in the oven.
If you’re serving a drink to match the Christmas morning canapes, Prosecco is the connoisseur’s choice; it’s noticeably sweeter than Champagne and generally less astringent, making it a more considered, palatable affair for a pre-midday drink. Plus it’s more affordable. A win-win, you might say!
For something that fills the house with the scent of Christmas, a warming pot of mulled wine is an easy drink to serve. Or, if you want to make something a little more impressive, the rum experts at Rockfall suggest making a batch of Christmas rum punch, which will put the spirit of Christmas into your guests, quite literally. Visit their site https://rockfallrum.com for some inspiration on the ideal flavourings to use.
GO-ALL-IN ON THE FESTIVE FASHION
Dressing the part as soon as you wake up is a great way to welcome in the day, and can help you and the family differentiate the day from the uniform of PJs we’ve mostly been in for the last two years. With cameras likely flashing when you open your gifts, you want to be looking the part from the get-go.
Our personal favourite is some festive or fancy pyjamas paired with high heels and some Christmas costume jewellery. The world of Christmas novelty jewellery can be a fun one, spreading cheer to all. Think Jingle Bell earrings and bauble necklaces; the brasher and bolder, the better we say! We’re particularly fond of brooches that play music and the earrings that light up…aren’t you?
Whether you stay in your tartan pyjamas, opt for a novelty sweatshirt or change into your Christmas day frock in all its sequined glory as soon as you wake up, wearing your festive outfit in the morning is a sure-fire way to declare loudly and proudly that you’re into the Christmas spirit.
You only have to set foot in a UK city centre (or watch those two rather incongruous Masterchef episodes of each series) to know that street food has transformed British dining culture. Markets once known for greasy burgers and limp hot dogs now buzz with globally-inspired dishes, cooked fresh and served with flair.
For aspiring food entrepreneurs, market stalls offer an enticing first step into the industry – lower risk than a restaurant, higher margins than delivery, and the chance to build a loyal following face-to-face.
But success in the street food scene demands more than just good cooking. The most prosperous traders understand their margins down to the penny, master prep-to-service flow, and choose dishes that balance profit with passion.
Here’s our deep dive into the street foods that offer serious returns while keeping the crowds coming back for more.
Korean Fried Chicken
Korean fried chicken is the current golden child of street food. Selling for at least £10 a portion and with costs of around £2, the margins are undeniable.
The secret lies in the double-fry technique – first at a gentle 150°C for thorough cooking, then a final blast at 180°C for that signature crunch. Those moreish sticky sauces are cheap to make in bulk. Most traders marinade their chicken overnight in buttermilk and gochugaru, then double-fry at different temperatures.
Equipment needs careful consideration: a good double-basket fryer (£1,800-2,200), a reliable warming cabinet for sauces (£400-600), and a commercial rice cooker (£300-400) for the essential side dish.
Many successful traders add a second fryer within months, doubling their capacity during peak times. The first fry can be done during prep, with the final fry during service ensuring that perfect crunch.
Fish tacos might sound fancy, but they’re a profit machine. One fresh fillet yields four tacos, each selling for £4. White fish like cod or haddock works perfectly, and the batter can be made unique with additions like Mexican beer or tempura-style lightness. The real genius is in the extras -house-made hot sauces cost pennies to produce but drive fierce customer loyalty.
The essential setup includes a flat-top grill (£800-1,000) or commercial fryer (£1,500-1,800), plus good refrigeration for fresh elements. A prep station with wells for different toppings (£400-500) keeps service flowing smoothly. Look for equipment that’s easy to clean – those fresh salsas and slaws need frequent rotation.
Banh Mi
Bánh mì requires minimal cooking equipment but delivers maximum flavour and profits. These beloved Vietnamese baguettes are packed with pickled veg and marinaded meat, with production costs around £1.50 commanding £7-8 per sandwich at a minimum. Most of the prep can be done before service -the pickled carrot and daikon that give each bánh mì its signature crunch cost almost nothing to make in bulk and keep for days.
Equipment needs focus on storage and prep: a good commercial fridge (£600-800), vacuum sealer for marinades (£200-300), and proper prep surfaces. A small grill or flat-top (£500-700) handles the meat perfectly. Many successful traders use a warming cabinet (£300-400) to keep bread crisp during service.
One key point; it’s famously difficult to perfect the bread for banh mi. It’s wise, then, to outsource production to a dedicated Vietnamese bakery, if you’re lucky enough to have one near.
Dumplings have become a market staple for good reason. Whether they’re Japanese gyoza or Chinese jiaozi, the production cost per unit is around 30p, while they sell for £1.50-2 each or £6-7 for a larger portion. The magic lies in batch preparation – a day’s work can yield hundreds of dumplings that freeze beautifully.
Essential equipment includes a high-quality flat-top grill (£800-1,000), steamer baskets, and a good freezer system. Many traders invest in a vacuum packer (£200-300) for storing prepped dumplings. The real profits come from the dipping sauces – soy, chilli oil, and vinegar bases that cost pennies per portion.
Arepas
Arepas, those irresistible Colombian/Venezuelan corn pockets, are another UK street food hidden gem. The dough costs pennies to make using pre-cooked cornmeal (masarepa), water, and salt. They can be stuffed with anything from cheap black beans to premium pulled pork, with production costs around £1.50 and selling prices of £6-8.
A commercial griddle (£600-800) is essential, along with a good prep station (£300-400) for fillings. Many traders add a sandwich press (£200-300) for perfect finishing. Hot-holding equipment for fillings becomes crucial during busy service.
Onigiri
Japanese rice balls, onigiri, offer remarkable margins. Even with premium fillings like salmon or umeboshi, each one costs under £1 to make and sells for £3-4. Equipment needs stay minimal: a professional rice cooker (£300-400), moulding equipment, and good storage solutions. Many traders add a small grill for yaki onigiri variations.
Biriyani
Proper biryani, while requiring more initial prep, commands premium prices of £8-10 per portion with costs around £2-2.50. The key is cooking in bulk and having an efficient reheating system during service. Rice and spices are cheap when bought in bulk, and even with good quality meat, the per-portion cost stays low.
Essential equipment includes specialist biryani pots (£200-300 each), quality rice cookers (£400-500), and efficient hot-holding systems (£600-800). Temperature control becomes crucial – invest in good thermometers and storage solutions.
Essential Practicalities
The backbone of any successful budding food business lies in its infrastructure. Storage demands careful planning – you’ll need prep kitchen space (from £150/week) with adequate refrigeration, dry storage, and prep areas. On-site storage requires military precision: map out your stall layout considering prep space, service flow, and storage access.
Weather protection isn’t optional in British markets. Professional-grade gazebos start at £300, but consider investing in a heavy-duty model (£500-700) with removable sides (£150-200). Weights are essential – proper gazebo weights (£100) prevent disaster on windy days. Many successful traders add vinyl banners (£80-120) for brand visibility and extra weather protection.
Smooth payment processing is key to providing a great customer experience. A portable card reader provides a reliable solution for vendors. Mobile signal can be patchy in some locations, so it’s worth considering a mobile WiFi hub (£20-30/month) for reliable connectivity.
Power management can make or break your service. Markets vary in their electrical provision – some offer 16A or 32A supply (£10-20/day), others require generators. A reliable generator (£800-1,000) needs careful consideration: factor in fuel costs (£15-20/day), maintenance, and noise levels. Always have a backup power plan.
Transportation evolves with your business. Many start with daily van hire (£50-80), but dedicated vehicles become essential for growth. Refrigerated vans start at £15,000, though leasing (£300-400/month) offers a gentler entry point. Consider payload carefully – equipment, stock, and infrastructure add up quickly.
Documentation requires methodical organisation. Beyond the basics – food safety certificates (Level 2 minimum, £150), public liability insurance (£300-500 annually), and market trading licences – consider additional certifications that add value. Gas safety certificates (£100-150) for LPG equipment need annual renewal. Many successful traders add food safety management systems (£200-300) to streamline compliance.
The Bottom Line
The beauty of all these options is their scalability. Start with one dish done perfectly, then expand your menu as you find your feet. The most successful traders often begin with a single, perfectly executed dish rather than trying to do everything at once.
Remember, all these dishes need proper storage solutions both in your prep kitchen and on-site. Investment in good quality equipment will pay for itself – cheap solutions often lead to expensive problems down the line. Factor in adequate refrigeration, hot-holding equipment, and prep space when planning your setup.
Street food, at heart, rewards both passion and pragmatism. Invest in quality where it matters, find efficiencies where possible, and always keep learning from your market experience. The most successful traders balance creativity with careful planning, building sustainable businesses one perfectly served dish at a time.
As we hurtle towards 2025, we’re drowning in a digital soup that’s thicker than ever – and those gentle little ‘put your phone in another room’ suggestions feel about as effective as bringing a paper umbrella to a hurricane.
Let’s get real: Social media clearly has both positive and negative impacts, but in 2025, we need proper, grown-up solutions for a world where we’re all convinced Jeffrey Bezos is listening to our conversations in the pub. Welcome to your guide to the radical art of digital rebellion – because half-measures just won’t cut it anymore.
Why Now? Because, Honestly, It’s Getting Weird Out There
Picture this: You’re having dinner with friends, and everyone’s watch is quietly judging their posture. Your smart ring is monitoring your stress levels (spoiler: they’re high because you’re being monitored), and somewhere in your house, your fridge is passive-aggressively adding oat milk to your shopping list. We’ve gone from being digital users to digital hostages, and Stockholm syndrome has set in hard. And yes, we realise there’s a certain irony to the fact you’re probably reading this on your smartphone…
The Monthly Digital Exodus (And Why It’s Not As Scary As It Sounds)
Forget hour-long digital breaks – they’re the equivalent of thinking a slice of cucumber in your burger counts as a salad. Instead, we’re talking about a full weekend of glorious digital nothingness every month. Picture yourself waking up to actual birdsong instead of Twitter notifications. Radical? Perhaps. Life-changing? Absolutely. Here’s how to do it properly…
The Friday night ritual begins with the ceremonial Unplugging of Everything. Yes, everything. Your WiFi router becomes a very expensive paperweight. That smart home hub? Give it the weekend off. Tell your family you’re going ‘old school’ and give them your neighbour’s landline for emergencies (buy them chocolates in advance – trust us on this).
What happens next is where it gets interesting. That first Friday evening might feel like you’ve lost a limb. By Saturday morning, you’ll start noticing things – like how your coffee tastes different when you’re not scrolling through Instagram, or how your cat has apparently been doing this hilarious thing with their tail for years and you’ve just never had the presence of mind to notice.
The Analogue Palace Revolution
Instead of treating tech-free spaces like sad little corners of denial, we’re going to turn them into temples of analogue joy. Your bedroom? It’s about to become so deliciously retro-cool it hurts.
Start with sound: Get yourself a proper record player – and yes, vinyl really does sound better, snap, crackle and all. Add some decent speakers, and suddenly your bedroom is a concert hall without a single notification in sight. The ritual of choosing a record, carefully placing the needle, and actually listening to an album in order? Pure magic.
Next up: Light. Chuck out those app-controlled bulbs and invest in some proper mood lighting. Himalayan salt lamps, anyone? They’re kitsch, but they work. Add some proper candles (not those tired tea lights you’ve had since uni), and suddenly your room feels less like a Best Buy showroom and more like a sanctuary.
Here’s where we get controversial: What if making things harder is actually making them better? It’s time to embrace what we’re terming ‘beneficial friction’ – the art of making technology just annoying enough to be mindful about using it.
Start with your phone. That sleek, beautiful thing? It’s going on a diet. Delete every app that you wouldn’t confidently tell your grandmother about. Email? Gone from your phone. Social media? Goodbye. Your phone should be as dumb as legally possible while still being able to call your mum. Not dumb. Don’t call your mum dumb. Grrr; got in a pickle here…
But here’s the twist: For every app you delete, add something analogue to your life. Deleted your meditation app? Buy a singing bowl (your neighbours will be too immersed in their chocolates to notice). Removed Instagram? Time to learn actual photography – with film. There’s something wonderfully pretentious about carrying a film camera, and we’re here for it.
The Quarterly Digital Purge (Or: How To Marie Kondo Your Cyber Life)
Every three months, you’re going to scorch-earth your digital life. It’s like a spa day for your online existence, but instead of cucumber water (clearly got cucumbers on the mind here), you’re drinking the sweet nectar of digital minimalism.
Here’s the process: First, delete every app on your phone. Yes, every single one. Now, before you have a panic attack, understand that this is temporary. The trick is in what happens next: For the next two weeks, only reinstall apps when you actually need them. Not want them – need them.
What you’ll discover is fascinating. Those 48 apps you had? Turns out you only use about seven of them with any real purpose. The rest were just digital comfort blankets.
The Art Of Aesthetic Minimalism
This is possibly our favourite hack for 2025: Turn your entire digital world grey. Not just your phone – everything. Your laptop, tablet, smart watch, the lot. Colours are emotional manipulators, and tech companies know this. Going greyscale is like putting on digital sunglasses – suddenly, everything is less urgent, less damn needy, less ‘click me now!’
The Physical Revival Movement
Here’s something radical: Start a Physical Things Club. Yes, it’s exactly what it sounds like. Monthly meetups where everyone brings something completely analogue to share. Vintage cameras, typewriters, board games, instruments – anything that doesn’t need charging.
These gatherings become something special. Picture it: A room full of people actually looking at each other, handling physical objects, sharing stories. No one checking phones because phones aren’t invited. It’s like time travel, but with better coffee and fewer diseases.
The Unexpected Benefits (Or: What Actually Happens When You Go Radical)
The real magic happens about three months in. You’ll start noticing changes that go way beyond “I sleep better now.” Your attention span? It comes back like a boomerang. Creative ideas? They start flowing when your brain isn’t constantly processing notifications.
But the really interesting stuff is in your relationships. Conversations become deeper when neither person is waiting for their phone to buzz. Memories feel more solid when you’re not experiencing them through a screen first. Even your sense of direction improves when you’re not outsourcing it to Google Maps.
Making It Sustainable (Without Becoming That Person)
Here’s the thing about digital detoxing in 2025 – it’s not about becoming a tech-refusing hermit. It’s about being a digital rebel with a cause. The goal isn’t to never use Instagram again; it’s to use it on your terms, when it adds value to your life.
Form a support group. Call it something ironic like ‘The Luddites’ Brunch Club’or ‘Analog Anonymous.’ Meet regularly. Share victories (“I went a whole weekend without Whatsapp!”) and setbacks (“I tried to double-tap a physical photo”). Make it fun, make it social, make it slightly ridiculous.
Looking Forward (Through Analog-Tinted Glasses)
As 2025 begins to emerge on the horizon, we’re not just talking about a digital detox anymore. We’re talking about a digital revolution. One where we use technology instead of letting it use us. Where our devices enhance our lives instead of consuming them.
The real luxury in 2025 won’t be having the latest smartphone – it’ll be having the confidence to own a flip phone. The ultimate status symbol won’t be being always connected – it’ll be being deliberately disconnected.
So here’s to 2025: The year we take back our attention, reclaim our time, and maybe, just maybe, remember what it feels like to be bored. Spoiler alert: It’s actually kind of wonderful.
We could all use a spot of indulgence after the year we’ve had, so why not try out one of our chefs’ top tips for an extra special Christmas lunch? From how to achieve the crispest of roast potatoes to the ideal turkey alternatives, we’ve got you covered. Here are the IDEAL Christmas cooking tips from some of our favourite chefs.
Vivek Singh, Executive Chef and CEO of The Cinnamon Collection
“I’m a firm believer in trying different things – it’s always exciting when you accidentally discover something that tastes amazing. This year, why not try sprinkling spice onto your roasts? It will add a whole new dimension. You can also marinade meats in spice mixes overnight to bring new layers of flavour.”
Kerth Gumbs, Head Chef of Fenchurch and BBC Two’s Great British Menu 2020 Finalist
“As well as brining your turkey to avoid it being bland and dry, I also like to prepare a butter and spice mixture (it can be any spice you like) to rub over it before cooking. Keeping the butter cold allows me to roll it out with a rolling pin. Then, by running my fingers under the skin of the turkey breast, I create a gap that allows me to spread the butter mixture directly on to the flesh of the bird. This is a very good way to help the meat stay moist, tender and fragrant.”
By rimmabondarenko via Canva
Callum Graham, Head Chef of Bohemia at The Club Hotel & Spa, Jersey
“Getting your timings right is one of the hardest things for a lot of people when it comes to cooking on Christmas Day. I’d recommend writing a list of everything you need to do with times against each activity, from when the oven needs to go on and be pre-heated, right through to taking out the turkey and allocating resting time. It sounds simple, but it can be really helpful to have it all down on paper so nothing gets forgotten.”
“Preparation is really key for Christmas Day and anything you can prepare ahead of time you should do. Alongside peeling and cutting your vegetables on Christmas Eve, you could also make your cauliflower cheese so that it’s ready to just pop into the oven the next day. My top tip would be to make your Yorkshire pudding batter 24 hours before its needed, as that gives it ample time to rest and helps ensure you’ll get a good rise.”
“To make sure you get really crisp potatoes, once you’ve par-boiled them, leave them to cool down slowly to room temperature before putting them in the oven. This helps the potatoes to dry out a little, and if there’s less moisture when they go in the oven they will end up super crisp on the outside, and perfectly fluffy on the inside.”
“Make your life easier on the big day by doing as much prep as you can. I always opt for cold starters at Christmas that I can make the day before, like a prawn cocktail for example. That way, you can just take them out the fridge and put them on the table and you’re ready to go, leaving you more time to focus on the important things. Also make sure to put plenty of drinks in the fridge in the run up to Christmas so they’re nice and chilled. No one likes warm bubbles!”
“For something a little different this Christmas, why not opt for duck instead of turkey. I’d recommend removing the legs first and roasting them in a baking tray alongside some juniper and chopped carrots. Once the legs are almost cooked, lay the duck breast or crown on top so they can roast together and come out at the same time, and this way you won’t dry out the breast. Serve with red cabbage, sprouting broccoli, Brussels fried off with bacon, roast potatoes, and plenty of cranberry jam – delicious!”
Oliver Marlowe, Owner Chef Director, The Hunter’s Moon
“To make sure you don’t end up with a dry turkey on the big day, I’d recommend brining your bird in a 10% salt to water liquid mix overnight prior to cooking. The salt dissolves some of the muscle proteins, meaning the meat contracts less while in the oven so therefore it loses less moisture. It really gives a game changing depth of flavour, and makes it very difficult to overcook so there’s one less thing to worry about on the big day!”
With Christmas just around the corner, it’s time to prepare for the big one, the true meaning of the festive season; dinner. With the help of Michelin starred Bohemia, here are our 5 tips for cooking the IDEAL turkey on Christmas day.
INVEST IN A TURKEY
Don’t scrimp on the main event. Spending that little extra on an organic or free-range turkey is totally worth it. Not only is it ethically sourced – conscious relatively clear, then – it will also have better nutritional benefits and deliver on clarity and depth of flavour. If there’s one day where money seems no object, it’s Christmas. The bird, then, is a worthy investment.
PREPARATION IS KEY
Wash and thoroughly dry the cavity of the bird before leaving it to reach room temperature. This is essential, and a step not to be neglected. Next, putting a moderate amount of softened butter under the skin of the bird will ensure it remains moist. Finally, truss the legs together so it retains its shape throughout cooking. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have an absolute showstopper of a centrepiece.
FESTIVE FLOURISHES
Stuff the cavity of the turkey with herbs, citrus fruits and an onion to add flavour. However, it is important to ensure there is space for heat to circulate, so don’t stuff it in too tightly. To make the stuffing seasonal, add some festive favourites such as cranberries, chestnuts, sage and clementine zest; just be sure to balance them thoughtfully as they’re a highly perfumed, citrusy bunch!
GLORIOUS GRAVY
For many, the meal hinges on the gravy. Don’t dispose of the caramelised juices left behind by the turkey as they make the perfect base for your sauce; there’s so much flavour lurking in that murky looking bottom of the pan. Adding Madeira, a tbsp of plain flour and quality stock to these, then reducing with fair vigour, will make your gravy rich and delicious.
STRESS-FREE CARVING
Good news for those always in a flap when adding the finishing touches; the final half hour needn’t be concerned with the bird. Leave the turkey to rest for at least 30 minutes before carving to allow the meat to relax, making carving easier and the flesh juicier. Separating the breasts from the legs and thighs will make carving a lot more manageable as you can simply slice the breast meat, and the rest should fall off the bone.
Nestled between the Alps and the Adriatic, Ljubljana might be Europe’s most enchanting capital you haven’t visited yet. This pocket-sized city, with its emerald river, castle-crowned hill, and streets that feel lifted from a fairytale, manages to pack all the culture of its larger neighbours into a delightfully walkable centre. While tourists flock to nearby Venice or Vienna, those in the know slip away to Slovenia’s capital, where dragons guard bridges and local wines flow freely in cobblestone courtyards.
Slovenia’s capital city has undergone a remarkable transformation since gaining independence in 1991. The pedestrianised centre, once clogged with traffic, now hums with café life and street musicians. This renaissance, coupled with the city’s commitment to green initiatives (it was named European Green Capital 2016), has created one of Europe’s most liveable – and loveable – capitals.
Day 1: Dragons & Delicacies
Breakfast: Coffee and Culture
Begin your Ljubljana story at the city’s beating heart – the Central Market, conveniently located between the Triple Bridge and Dragon Bridge. This open-air feast designed by beloved architect Jože Plečnik stretches along the Ljubljanica River, offering a crash course in Slovenian food culture. The colonnade’s elegant arches shelter vendors selling everything from foraged mushrooms to mountain cheese and local honey.
Start with a coffee at Črno Zrno, where locally roasted beans and the gentle morning bustle of market traders create the perfect Ljubljana awakening. Their cold brew, steeped for 12 hours, is a summer favourite among locals. For breakfast, explore the market’s dairy section, where farmers from surrounding villages sell fresh cottage cheese and sour milk – traditional Slovenian breakfast staples.
The market’s indoor section, housed in a striking modernist building, focuses on meat and fish. Look for vendors selling traditional Slovenian dried meats like pršut (air-dried ham) and zaseka (minced lard spread), perfect for picnic provisions later.
Morning: Castle Views
Take the funicular up to Ljubljana Castle for sweeping views over terracotta roofs to distant Alpine peaks. While the funicular offers the easiest ascent, the walking path through the forested hill provides a lovely alternative, taking about 20 minutes through chestnut trees and offering occasional glimpses of the city below.
The castle’s Viewing Tower offers the best panoramas, but don’t miss the Museum of Slovenian History for context about this fascinating crossroads of European culture. Time your visit for noon to watch the firing of the cannon – a tradition dating back to 1813. The castle’s Chapel of St George, with its recently restored Gothic frescos, provides a peaceful respite from the tourist crowds.
The castle’s permanent exhibition on Slovenian history is particularly well-curated, offering interactive displays about everything from Roman Emona to the country’s independence. The Virtual Castle experience, using augmented reality to show the fortress’s evolution over centuries, is worth the extra few euros.
Lunch: Market Treasures
Return to ground level for lunch at Klobasarna, a tiny spot specialising in Carniolan sausage, Slovenia’s protected national dish. These hearty sausages, served with fresh horseradish and mustard, offer a taste of traditional Slovenia. Pair it with local craft beer from nearby Human Fish Brewery, whose copper-coloured ale has won international awards.
For dessert, walk a few steps to Cacao, where they serve multiple varieties of potica, Slovenia’s traditional rolled pastry. The walnut version is classic, but the tarragon one offers an intriguingly different sweet-herbal flavour that’s unique to Slovenian cuisine. If you’re still hungry, pop over to Puffy Lil’ Pancakes – while it’s not a traditional Slovenian treat, it’s one of our favourite spots in the city for a pick me up.
Afternoon: Urban Exploration
After lunch, follow the riverbank northeast to the famous Dragon Bridge, where four copper dragons stand guard. These fearsome creatures aren’t just decorative – according to legend, they wag their tails when a virgin crosses the bridge. The dragons have become such a symbol of the city that you’ll find their image everywhere from manhole covers to the local football club’s crest.
From here, it’s a short walk to the emerging Poljane district, where you’ll find an engaging mix of local life and historic architecture. Take Poljanska cesta towards the Metelkova Mesto, a former military barracks turned autonomous cultural centre that showcases the city’s alternative spirit. This ‘city within a city’ hosts numerous cultural events, from experimental theatre to electronic music nights. During the day, it’s a fascinating spot for photography, with every surface covered in murals, sculptures, and installations.
Just next door, the Ethnographic Museum offers fascinating insights into Slovenian folk culture, from beekeeping traditions to carnival costumes. The museum’s rooftop café provides another perspective on the city, particularly lovely at sunset. The whole area forms part of the Museum Quarter, making it easy to museum-hop if you’re culturally inclined.
As dusk falls, the riverside comes alive. Secure a table at Michelin-starred Strelec Restaurant, housed in the castle’s archer’s tower. Here, modern interpretations of Slovenian cuisine meet medieval architecture. Their tasting menu showcases local ingredients like Istrian truffles and Piran sea bass, while the wine list features excellent Slovenian vintages from the Vipava Valley.
Chef Igor Jagodic’s creative takes on traditional dishes might include dried beef soup with buckwheat dumplings or their signature rabbit with wild garlic and nettle puree. The medieval-themed dining room, complete with suits of armour and candlelight, adds to the atmospheric experience. Book well in advance and request a window table for the best views over the illuminated city.
For a nightcap, head to Kolbiri Cocktail Bar, where local spirits like borovička (juniper brandy) feature in innovative cocktails. Their terrace offers prime people-watching along the riverside promenade.
Day 2: Art, Architecture & Alpine Flavours
Breakfast: Waking Up With The Market
Start your second day at the Open Kitchen (Odprta Kuhna) in Pogačarjev trg, just behind the cathedral, if you’re visiting on a Friday between March and October. This weekly food market brings together Slovenia’s best chefs for an outdoor feast. The variety is impressive – from traditional gjerpje (buckwheat crepes) to modern fusion cuisine.
On other days, head to Le Petit Café on Trg Francoske revolucije for their legendary poached eggs and house-made sourdough. Their breakfast board, featuring local cheese, honey, and fruit preserves, offers a perfect taste of Slovenian morning traditions. The café’s location, in a quiet square surrounded by some of Ljubljana’s finest baroque architecture, provides a peaceful start to the day.
Morning: Plečnik’s City
Dedicate your morning to discovering the works of Jože Plečnik, the architect who gave Ljubljana its distinctive character. The Plečnik House, his former home and studio, offers fascinating insights into his vision for the city. The house remains much as he left it, complete with his drawing tools and personal library.
Follow this with a walk along the Triple Bridge and through the colonnaded Central Market, both masterpieces of his urban design. The National and University Library, another Plečnik masterpiece, showcases his distinctive style – look for the massive black marble doorway and the dramatic “dark-to-light” symbolism in the main staircase.
A lesser-known Plečnik site worth visiting is the Church of St Michael in the Marshes, located in the Trnovo district. Its unconventional design includes elements inspired by Ancient Greek architecture and local building traditions. The nearby Trnovo Bridge is unique – it’s the only bridge in the world that supports a row of trees and was designed to double as a town square.
Lunch: Local Flavours
Tuck into lunch at Julija, a charming restaurant in the old town serving traditional Slovenian cuisine with a contemporary twist. Their štruklji (rolled dumplings) and mushroom soup showcase the best of local, seasonal ingredients. The restaurant’s wine cellar stocks an impressive selection of Slovenian wines – ask for a recommendation from the lesser-known Štajerska region.
Don’t miss their house-made bread, baked twice daily using heritage grain varieties. The mushroom soup, made with foraged fungi when in season, is a particular highlight. For the full experience, try their tasting plate of traditional Slovenian cold cuts and cheeses, including unique items like pumpkin seed oil cheese from Prekmurje.
Afternoon: Green Escape
Spend your afternoon in Tivoli Park, Ljubljana’s green heart. This sprawling park houses the International Centre of Graphic Arts in a baroque mansion. The surrounding gardens and woods offer peaceful walking trails and surprising art installations. The park’s design, another Plečnik project, seamlessly blends formal gardens with natural woodland.
The Jakopič Promenade, the park’s main avenue, regularly hosts outdoor photography exhibitions. Look for the century-old trees marked with plaques – some are rare specimens planted during the Austro-Hungarian period. The Park Café offers a perfect pit stop for a slice of prekmurska gibanica, a traditional layered cake combining poppy seeds, walnuts, cottage cheese, and apples.
For art lovers, the Modern Gallery’s permanent collection provides an excellent overview of 20th-century Slovenian art. The sculpture park outside offers a peaceful spot for contemplation.
Evening: Wine and Dine In Style
End your stay at JB Restaurant, where chef Janez Bratovž crafts sophisticated dishes that have earned international acclaim. The restaurant’s wine cellar houses an impressive collection of Slovenian wines, and the sommelier’s knowledge adds another layer to the dining experience. The tasting menu might include modernised versions of traditional dishes like štruklji or innovative combinations like their signature chocolate-covered olive oil drops.
The cellar focuses particularly on orange wines from the Brda region, Slovenia’s answer to Tuscany. The sommelier offers excellent pairing suggestions, often highlighting small producers who don’t export beyond Slovenia’s borders.
Beyond The City
While Ljubljana’s charm lies in its compact centre, some of Slovenia’s most spectacular sights lie just beyond. Lake Bled, with its fairy-tale island church and clifftop castle, is just 55 minutes away. The vast cave systems of Postojna and Škocjan can be reached in under an hour. The wine regions of Vipava Valley and Goriska Brda are perfect for day trips.
Getting There & Around
Direct flights operate from London Stansted and Gatwick to Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport, with a flight time of roughly two hours. The airport shuttle runs every hour to the city centre, taking about 30 minutes and costing €4. Alternatively, a taxi will set you back around €40.
Once in the city, you’ll find most sights within walking distance – Ljubljana’s compact centre is one of its greatest charms. The efficient bus network fills any gaps, while the BicikeLJ bike-sharing system offers a more active way to explore. Just remember to purchase an Urbana card from any tourist office for public transport.
A Few Ljubljana Tips
Here are a few little tips to make your 48 hours all the more smooth and enjoyable…
The Ljubljana Card offers free public transport and entry to major attractions, including the castle funicular.
It pays for itself if you’re planning to visit at least three attractions. Most museums close on Mondays, but the castle remains open year-round.
The best views of the castle are from the Nebotičnik skyscraper’s rooftop café – time your visit for sunset.
Local markets are busiest (and best) on Saturday mornings – arrive before 10am for the freshest produce.
Many restaurants close on Sundays – book ahead for weekend dining.
The tourist office offers free guided walks every Friday morning (in English) – an excellent introduction to the city’s history.
Consider visiting during December when the riverside Christmas market transforms the city into a winter wonderland.
The Bottom Line
Ljubljana may be one of Europe’s smallest capitals, but it packs an outsized punch. In just 48 hours, you can experience a uniquely preserved medieval core, innovative cuisine, and a cafe culture that rivals any European capital – all without the crowds that plague its more famous neighbours. This storybook city proves that sometimes the best adventures come in small packages.
Whether you’re scaling castle walls, hunting dragons, or simply sipping coffee by the river, Ljubljana’s charm lies in its ability to feel both timelessly historic and thoroughly modern. It’s a city that invites slow exploration, where each cobblestone street might lead to a hidden courtyard or an undiscovered café. While 48 hours barely scratches the surface, it’s enough time to fall under the spell of Slovenia’s enchanting capital.
Next up, we’re failing to scratch the surface once again, in Europe’s cheapest city break, Podgorica. Care to join us?
Not to be confused with sheds or conservatories, garden rooms have soared in popularity due to the architectural and aesthetic edge they give to outdoor gardens and open areas. As stand-alone outside buildings, garden rooms can serve multiple functions, from introducing a home office with extra privacy all the way to adding a dedicated gym to a property.
Given the events of the last two years, this repurposing of domestic spaces is hardly surprising. Representing a cost-effective alternative to traditional home extensions – average price predictions start at £3’400 – garden rooms have provided homeowners across the UK with some respite from sometimes claustrophobic domestic spaces during the pandemic. With working from home set to continue, interest in garden rooms remains high.
If you’re considering adding one to your property, then here are 6 practical considerations when building your garden room.
Added Value & Saleability
Firstly, as you’re drawing up your budget for your garden room, it’s important to consider the added value and saleability of such a project, so you can factor it into your plans.
As Property Price Advice reports, ‘’A garden room will allow you to expand the space in your home without intrusive and sometimes complicated extensions, while simultaneously adding value.”
Predictions vary on just how much value a garden room might add, as they differ hugely in size, function and materials used, but generally, expect to see between 5% and 15% added.
Image courtesy of Cabinmaster
Consider Planning Permission
Depending on the form and scale of the construction, you may need multiple levels of planning clearance. However, different rules may apply to building garden rooms in the UK, based on your region of residence.
In short, garden rooms must be constructed 2.0m away from the property’s boundary with a maximum overall height of 2.5m from the existing ground level. A single-storey garden building can have a maximum eave height of 2.5m, with a maximum overall height of 4.0m for a dual-pitched roof and 3.0m for a pent-roofed building. Planning permission will be needed if the overall height exceeds these roof heights.
It’s likely you won’t have permitted development rights if your home is a listed building, or it’s in a designated area, such as in a national park or Area Of Outstanding Beauty. Always check with your local council if you’re not sure whether or not you need planning permission.
Power Source
Depending on how you plan to use your garden room, you’ll probably need to provide it with a power source. The type of power source you use should comply with building regulations. As the experts at West Yorkshire Electrical sagely advise, you’re going to need an SWA cable installed, running from your property to the space, in order to provide your garden room with that essential WiFi connection and charging sockets. It’s best to defer to a professional electrician on this one.
You’ll first need to ensure that your garden room is waterproof, or a professional electrician won’t be able to complete the job. Look for an electrician who is a member of a recognised body such as NICEIC, to ensure their work is up to scratch.
Your garden room may also need a plumbing system, should you be intending for the space to have multifunctional and diverse features, such as an integrated shower or a kitchenette. You’ll need two pipes for your garden room; one for bringing fresh water into the room and one for removing the waste water created. Be aware that any pipework has to be buried at 750mm underground, under floorboards or via a small trend that’s dug into your garden.
You may also need to invest in a pump station for waste water removal. Again, you’ll need to avail yourself of a registered professional for this one; it’s not something you should attempt to DIY.
Natural Light & Glazing
When designing your garden room, careful consideration of natural light is paramount. The positioning and size of windows and glazed doors not only impacts the room’s functionality but also affects its energy efficiency throughout the year. South-facing glazing can create a lovely bright space but may lead to overheating in summer months without proper planning.
Double or triple glazing is worth the investment, as it helps maintain a consistent temperature whilst reducing energy costs, somewhat winter-proofing your garden room in the process. Consider incorporating roof lights or lantern windows to maximise daylight without sacrificing wall space. However, do be mindful of neighbouring properties when plotting window placement, as overlooking concerns could affect planning permission.
Many homeowners opt for bi-fold or sliding doors, which create a seamless connection between the garden room and the outdoor space whilst flooding the interior with natural light. These can be particularly effective when paired with extended roof overhangs or external blinds to manage solar gain during warmer seasons.
Heating Source & Insulation
If your space is on the smaller side, an electric radiator – portable and wall mounted – will likely do the job of heating your garden room. Insulating the walls, ceiling and floor will go further in keeping the heat in, and will also prevent damp from building up in the room.
Also popular are convection heaters, which work incredibly quickly, meaning there’s no need to preheat your garden room. For both electric radiators and convection heaters, you can fit a timer and thermostat, helping you control the temperature precisely and economically.
For larger garden rooms with a bigger budget to play with, underfloor heating is a luxurious option. Of course, you’ll need the appropriate plumbing work completed for this to be a viable option.
Finally, if sustainability is your priority, then generating solar heat is another smart choice. This generally works by having solar panels installed on the roof of your garden room. Though the initial installation does tend to be costly, the running and maintenance costs of solar panels is relatively low.
The Bottom Line
From a market point of view, as a separate functional unit, building a garden room can raise the value of your property while also providing a secluded space for privacy and comfort. And domestically, what could be better than that?
Your wedding is your big day, sorry, your Big Day. It’s your time to shine, to sparkle and to celebrate, and you’ll want to ensure that every element is as special as possible, so that it lives in your memory and the memories of your guests, forever more.
Fortunately, there are lots of simple things you can do to ensure that your wedding day is extra special, unforgettable and loads of fun; here are 10 tips to help make your wedding everything you dreamed it could be.
Get Serious – And Be Ruthless – With the Guest List
Your wedding day is primarily for you and your fiancé, and you should do everything you can to ensure it is a special day. Some people want it to be as close-knit an affair as possible, perhaps only inviting the closest of friends or family members. Others, however, will see this as an opportunity to celebrate with as many people from across their life as possible.
The decision, ultimately, is yours. If that means leaving annoying relatives and friends who are guaranteed to bring the mood down and cause a scene off the guest list, so be it. Invite only those who will make your day that bit more special and ignore anyone who tries to bully you into changing your guest list; it’s not their day, it’s yours.
Get Creative With Your Wedding Invitations
Your wedding invitations set the tone for the rest of your wedding, which is why it can be a whole lot of fun to make them special and unique. Choose a theme for your wedding and match your invitations to that theme, whether that’s dictating the general colour palette, thematic elements or floral direction. Speaking of which…
Show Off Your Own Unique Style
White lace might be the traditional wedding dress look, but if that’s just not your thing, don’t be afraid to mix things up and wear something that you truly love.
Do a Millie Mackintosh and get married in a suit and an oversized hat or an Olivia Palermo and get married in a tulle skirt and cardigan. Alternatively, do a Kurt Cobain and get married in your pyjamas, wear a bright red flamenco dress or parade around in a 50s prom dress. Personalised, matching wedding cufflinks are also a lovely way to show off your own unique sense of style as a couple, on the special day and at the reception.
As Brides so eloquently writes, “Who says the bride has to be dressed in white or even in a dress for that matter? Weddings are never cookie-cutter affairs—and neither are brides!”.
We couldn’t agree more. It’s your wedding, and there are no rules.
Floral Frivolity
Rather than blowing the budget on gaudy bouquets not in keeping with the occasion or wedding venue, simple seasonal flowers are a lovely idea to anchor the day in a sense of time and place. Not only that, but flowers in bloom will look more resplendent and likely be more affordable too, due to their relative abundance. It’s a win-win-win!
Fortunately, the months of May through September (‘wedding season’, as it were) see a gorgeous variety of summer blooms. Channel rustic arrangements with elements of the wild British countryside; a lovely idea, particularly if your wedding is taking place in these surrounds. This creates a subtle synergy to the disparate elements of the day that tends to work beautifully.
Weave In Personal Touches and Family Traditions
Your wedding is a celebration of your unique love story, so don’t shy away from incorporating elements that reflect your journey together or honour your heritage. This could mean displaying photos from your relationship milestones, incorporating family heirlooms into your ceremony, or creating a signature cocktail named after how you met.
If you have meaningful cultural or family traditions, find ways to blend them into your celebration – perhaps your grandmother’s special blessing, a traditional dance from your culture, or even recreating your first date in miniature form as part of the entertainment. These personal touches not only make your wedding distinctively yours but also create talking points that help guests feel more connected to your story. Remember, these intimate details often become the most cherished memories of the day.
Pick The Perfect Music
Whether you want to have a live band or a DJ at your wedding reception, it is important that you take the time to make the perfect choice. First of all, you should look for musicians and DJs who play the kind of music you want to hear. If you like rock music, don’t be shy about having it at your wedding, the same goes for classical, techno or any other genre. It’s your wedding, and you should be happy. However, do try to have a diverse playlist, so that there is something for everyone to get up and dance to.
Secondly, make sure you choose a DJ or band that have a good reputation for being reliable, and if possible check them out before booking to avoid disaster on the big day.
Create Your Own Playlist
Sure, Wonderwall and Mr. Brightside covers are great, but if you really want to make your wedding day special, work with your DJ or band to create the perfect playlist to keep you and your guests dancing all night long.
After all, you are the best people to know about your musical tastes and the tastes of your guests, so you should be able to create a personalised playlist to keep everyone happy.
If you need some inspiration, earlier this year Billboard rounded up the ‘Best 30 Wedding Songs of All Time‘ which include; Prince and the Revolution’s ‘Kiss’, Black Eyed Peas’ ‘I Gotta Feeling’, and Shania Twain’s ‘You’re Still the One’. And if you really want a challenge, try not to include any breakup songs on your playlist – you’ll be surprised how many popular weddings songs are about just that!
Go For Unique Food Choices
Most weddings have very similar meal options, and it can get very boring very quickly, so if you want to make your wedding special and ensure your guests are pleasantly surprised, make your meal a bit different. Get interactive with huge sharing platters, dish up a curry or swap your dessert for a candy stand – do anything that will make your wedding breakfast stand out from the rest!
Hey, you could even go really wild and just call it a ‘lunch’ or ‘dinner’…
Snacks
As well as putting on a unique meal, why not serve up some tasty snacks during and after your wedding reception? Hire a popcorn machine, set up a sweet stall, order burgers and fries or bring out the chocolate fountain to give your guests a little treat later on in the evening.
Keeping the party fueled with late-night party food is always a good idea. Theknot.com suggest serving a helping of Chinese noodles like lo mein in little take-out boxes and any leftover can be taken home by guests. We love the idea of hiring a pizza or taco truck, too.
If you’re having an outdoor wedding, consider hiring a coffee van for guests who need a little pick-me-up.
Don’t Be Afraid To Be Specific With Your Photographer
Your wedding day doesn’t only have to be extra special on the day, the memories of it can be really special too, which is why it is so important to choose a really talented photographer who can capture every moment of the day perfectly! Don’t be afraid to instruct your photographer to have some fun and take lots of candid shots either because these are often the most fondly remembered as time goes by.
Most importantly, don’t forget to have fun and enjoy the experience. After all, you’ll only get married once!
As stockings hang by the fireplace and the scent of mulled wine and pine needles fills the air, there’s nothing quite like a perfectly crafted cocktail to capture the magic of Christmas. From sophisticated aperitifs to indulgent after-dinner treats, we’ve crafted 8 special serves that reimagine classic cocktails with a festive twist, perfect for everything from Christmas Eve gatherings to Boxing Day brunches.
A Berry Merry Paloma
Let’s face it; holiday drink recipes are a dime a dozen, and if you’re going to truly impress your guests, you’ll need to get creative. That’s where our Berry Merry Paloma comes in.
The traditional Mexican favourite gets a yuletide makeover with the addition of fresh cranberry juice, creating a sophisticated pink-hued highball that’s both tart and refreshing. Fresh grapefruit juice mingles with premium silver tequila and a splash of cranberry, while a hint of lime adds brightness. Topped with soda and garnished with a frosted cranberry skewer, it’s Christmas in the Yucatan.
Method: Shake all ingredients except soda with ice. Strain into an ice-filled highball glass. Top with soda water. Garnish with frosted cranberries and, if you’re feeling it, a grapefruit wedge.
The Christmas Morning Mary
Our festive take on the breakfast cocktail classic comes adorned with sugared cranberries and a warming blend of Christmas spices. Perfect for Christmas morning present-opening or Boxing Day brunches, this spiced serve balances premium vodka with rich tomato juice and a carefully chosen blend of seasonal aromatics.
Recipe:
50ml premium vodka
120ml good quality tomato juice
15ml fresh lemon juice
3 dashes Worcestershire sauce
2 dashes Tabasco
Pinch each of celery salt, fresh black pepper, ground cinnamon, ground star anise
Method: Roll ingredients between two shakers with ice. Strain into an ice-filled glass with a spiced salt rim. Garnish with your lemon wedge, celery, cranberries and rosemary.
An Elegant Christmas Eve Fizz
Elevate your Christmas Eve celebrations with this elegant creation featuring Crémant d’Alsace as its sparkling base. Fresh pear juice and a house-made thyme and ginger syrup bring seasonal warmth, while the bubbles add festive frivolity. Perfect for toasting as you wrap those final presents.
Recipe:
20ml pear eau de vie
15ml thyme and ginger syrup*
100ml cremant d’Alsace
Garnish: thin pear slice, thyme sprig
*Thyme & ginger syrup: Simmer 200g sugar, 200ml water, 6 thyme sprigs and 50g sliced ginger for 10 mins. Strain and cool.
Method: Add eau de vie and syrup to a champagne flute. Top with cold cremant. Garnish with pear and thyme.
Mulled Negroni
This crimson beauty takes the Italian classic into Christmas territory with the addition of mulled wine-infused vermouth and a dash of Christmas pudding bitters. The deep red hue perfectly matches your Christmas decorations, while the complex flavour profile makes it an ideal pre-dinner aperitif.
Recipe:
30ml London dry gin
30ml mulled wine-infused red vermouth*
30ml Campari
Garnish: orange twist, bay leaf
*Mulled vermouth: Warm 500ml red vermouth with 2 cinnamon sticks, 4 cloves, 1 star anise, orange peel for 10 mins. Cool and strain.
Method: Stir all ingredients with ice until well-chilled. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with orange twist and bay leaf.
The Frost Queen Martini
Crystal clear yet full of festive character, this elegant serve combines premium gin with a dash of pine-infused dry vermouth and just a whisper of cardamom bitters. Served in a frozen coupe and garnished with an olive (because nothing else will ever do here), it’s as pure as fresh-fallen snow but with a warming holiday heart.
Recipe:
60ml premium gin
10ml pine-infused dry vermouth*
2 drops cardamom bitters
Garnish: a single olive on a toothpick
*Pine vermouth: Infuse 200ml dry vermouth with 2 fresh pine sprigs for 24 hours. Strain.
Method: Stir ingredients with ice until very cold. Strain into a frozen coupe glass. Garnish with your olive.
The Arctic Russian
The beloved White Russian dons its winter coat with the addition of vanilla-infused vodka and a hint of nutmeg. Rich coffee liqueur and fresh cream create the classic layered effect, while a dusting of freshly grated nutmeg creates a starlit night effect on top. If you’re a mint lover, consider adding a splash creme de mente for a pepperminty twist
Recipe:
45ml vanilla-infused vodka*
25ml coffee liqueur
25ml fresh double cream
Garnish: fresh grated nutmeg
*Vanilla vodka: Infuse 700ml vodka with 2 split vanilla pods for 48 hours.
Method: Build in order over ice in a rocks glass. Float cream on top. Finish with freshly grated nutmeg.
Rosemary and clementine unite in this seasonal sour that captures the essence of Christmas morning. Premium gin provides the base, while fresh clementine juice and rosemary-infused sugar syrup bring seasonal sweetness. A silky egg white foam is garnished with a fine mist of Angostura bitters and a sprig of charred rosemary.
Recipe:
50ml London dry gin
25ml fresh clementine juice
15ml rosemary syrup*
20ml fresh lemon juice
1 egg white
3 drops Angostura bitters
Garnish: charred rosemary sprig
*Rosemary syrup: Simmer 200g sugar, 200ml water and 4 rosemary sprigs for 10 mins. Strain and cool.
Method: Dry shake ingredients, then shake with ice. Double strain into a chilled coupe. Garnish with bitters and charred rosemary.
This indulgent dessert cocktail combines Irish cream liqueur with premium vodka and a measure of rich chocolate liqueur. Think of it as a grown-up version of the milk and cookies left out for Father Christmas, served in a martini glass with a rim of crushed candy cane and a light dusting of cocoa powder.
Method: Shake ingredients with ice until well-chilled. Strain into a candy cane-rimmed martini glass. Dust with cocoa powder.
The Bottom Line
Each of these cocktails has been crafted to bring the magic of Christmas to your celebrations while honouring the principles of classic mixology. They’re perfect for everything from Christmas Eve gatherings to post-dinner digestifs on the big day itself. Remember to source the finest ingredients and, most importantly, to serve with a generous measure of Christmas spirit. After all, ’tis the season to be jolly!
Note: All recipes serve one. For syrups and infusions, prepare in advance and store refrigerated in sterilised bottles.
Though we realise that we’re in the depths of winter, the shortest day of the year isn’t far away and sunglasses aren’t exactly required, you know what they say about fixing the roof whilst the, erm, sun is shining? Think we might abandon this clumsy introduction, you know…
…Let’s start again. Aviator sunglasses have been a timeless accessory since their inception in the 1930s. Originally designed for pilots, these iconic shades have transcended their utilitarian roots to become a staple in fashion.
However, despite their classic appeal, aviators can sometimes veer into corny territory if not styled correctly. We’re here to help you stay on track, navigate the dos and don’ts of wearing aviator sunglasses, and ensure you look effortlessly chic rather than tragically outdated.
Understanding The Aviator Aesthetic
It’s essential to understand what makes aviators unique. Their teardrop shape, thin metal frame, and double bridge design are distinctive features that set them apart. Aviators exude a cool, laid-back vibe, often associated with a sense of adventure and rebellion.
The design was initially crafted to provide maximum coverage and protection for pilots’ eyes, which is why the lenses are large and cover a significant portion of the face. This utilitarian origin gives aviators a rugged, functional appeal that has been embraced by fashion icons and celebrities over the decades.
The aviator aesthetic is also deeply rooted in pop culture. From Tom Cruise’s iconic look in Top Gun to the effortlessly cool style of musicians like Freddie Mercury, aviators have been a symbol of nonchalant confidence and timeless style. Understanding this heritage can help you appreciate the versatility and enduring appeal of aviators, making it easier to incorporate them into your wardrobe with authenticity and flair.
Face Shape & Aviators
Firstly, let’s think about whether aviators are right for you at all. Choosing the right pair of aviators – or, choosing them at all – involves considering your face shape first.
Aviators are generally flattering on most face shapes due to their balanced proportions and versatile design. However, certain styles can frame your features more effectively:
Oval Faces: Almost any style of aviators will suit an oval face, as this shape is well-balanced and versatile. Feel free to experiment with different sizes and lens colours.
Round Faces: To add definition and length to a round face, opt for aviators with a more angular design. The teardrop shape can help elongate the face and add structure.
Square Faces: Aviators with rounded edges can soften the strong jawline and angular features of a square face. Look for frames that are slightly wider than your face to balance proportions.
Heart-Shaped Faces: For heart-shaped faces, which are wider at the forehead and narrower at the chin, aviators with a wider top and narrower bottom can help balance the face. Avoid overly large frames that can overwhelm your features.
Oblong Faces: If you have an oblong face, choose aviators with larger lenses to add width and balance to your face. Frames with a double bridge can also add a touch of sophistication and break up the length of your face.
Choosing The Right Pair
Frame Material
Aviators come in various materials, from classic metal to modern plastic. Metal frames, particularly in gold or silver, are timeless and versatile. They can be dressed up or down, making them a safe bet for most occasions. Plastic frames, on the other hand, offer a more contemporary look but can sometimes appear cheap if not chosen carefully. For a sense of understated cool, opt for high-quality plastic frames in neutral colours to avoid looking naff.
Lens Colour
The lens colour can significantly impact the overall look of your aviators. Traditional reflective green or grey lenses are versatile and understated, while mirrored or coloured lenses can add a bold statement. If you’re aiming for a classic look, stick to neutral lens colours. For a more modern twist, experiment with subtle tints like blue or brown, but avoid overly flashy colours that can detract from the sophistication of the aviators.
Fit & Size
Aviators are known for their oversized lenses, but it’s still worth considering the size. Too large, and they can overwhelm your features; too small, and they lose their iconic appeal. Ensure the bridge sits comfortably on your nose, and the arms fit snugly without pinching. The bottom of the lenses should ideally rest just above your cheekbones.
Aviator Glasses
Aviator glasses, as opposed to sunglasses, offer a unique way to incorporate the iconic aviator shape into your everyday look. Opt for metal frames in classic colours like gold, silver, or black, and pair them with clear or blue light blocking lenses for a modern twist.
These glasses can add intellectual charm and retro flair to both smart-casual and relaxed outfits, ensuring the rest of your ensemble is polished and cohesive.
Aviator Styling Tips
Casual Cool
Aviators naturally lend themselves to casual outfits. Pair them with a simple white t-shirt, well-fitted jeans, and a leather jacket for an effortlessly cool look. This combination harks back to the rebellious spirit of aviators, reminiscent of icons like James Dean and Tom Cruise in Top Gun. Finish the look with a pair of classic trainers or boots.
Or, go even more casual, and pair your aviators with a band T-shirt and a pair of Lakai skate shoes, or something more relaxed like a hoodie and joggers. This laid-back style is perfect for weekend outings or casual meet-ups with friends.
Smart Casual
For a smart-casual ensemble, aviators can add a touch of relaxed sophistication. Combine them with a crisp button-down shirt, chinos, and loafers. A lightweight blazer can elevate the outfit further, making it suitable for brunches or casual meetings. Stick to neutral colours and avoid overly busy patterns to keep the focus on the aviators.
Beach Ready
Aviators are perfect for beach outings, providing both style and sun protection. Pair them with swim shorts, a linen shirt, and espadrilles for a laid-back yet stylish beach look. A straw hat can add an extra layer of chic while protecting you from the sun. Opt for mirrored lenses to reflect the bright beach environment, but ensure the rest of your outfit remains understated.
Formal Flair
While aviators are inherently casual, they can be incorporated into formal attire with the right approach. Choose a pair with a sleek metal frame and neutral lenses. Pair them with a tailored suit in a classic colour like navy or grey, or even a saree or qipao. Ensure the rest of your accessories, such as your watch and shoes, are equally refined. This look works best for outdoor events or summer weddings where a touch of nonchalance is appreciated.
Common Pitfalls To Avoid
Overly Flashy Lenses
While mirrored and coloured lenses can be fun, they can also quickly look tacky if not styled correctly. Stick to subtle tints and avoid overly reflective or neon lenses unless you’re at a festival or similar event.
Mismatched Styles
Aviators have a distinct style that doesn’t always pair well with certain fashion trends. Avoid wearing them with overly formal or avant-garde outfits that clash with their laid-back vibe. Instead, aim for a cohesive look that complements the aviators’ aesthetic.
Poor Fit
Ill-fitting aviators can ruin your entire look. Ensure they sit comfortably on your face without slipping down your nose or pinching your temples. If necessary, visit an optician to adjust the fit.
The Bottom Line
Aviator sunglasses and glasses are versatile and timeless accessories that can elevate a variety of outfits when styled correctly. By choosing the right pair and following these styling tips, you can ensure your aviators look effortlessly chic rather than naff. Remember, the key is to embrace their laid-back, adventurous spirit while keeping your overall look cohesive and well-balanced. So, go ahead and rock those aviators with confidence!
Indeed, sustainability is a hot (hmm) topic, and whilst the average Joe can feel pretty helpless in the face of powerful global forces, learning how to make small changes to the home can ease a little of the climate guilt, if nothing else.
Living sustainably doesn’t have to mean living without all the comforts of modern life – with just a few thoughtful tweaks, you could save money on bills too! Let’s look at some of the best things you can do right now if you want to start leading a greener lifestyle.
From energy-efficient appliances to better insulation, here are 11 additions to help your home to make it more sustainable.
Installing Solar Panels & Inverters
Adding solar panels to your home is a great way to make it more sustainable.
Solar energy from the sun can provide electricity for lighting, appliances and other electronics in your home. It also helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions from traditional energy sources such as oil or coal.
Additionally, becoming energy independent can be a great way to save on energy bills. As grid energy prices can be unpredictable, installing solar panels gives you a steady stream of energy that isn’t reliant on external sources.
To maximise the efficiency of your solar panels, consider installing a solar inverter. Solar inverters convert the direct current (DC) electricity generated by your solar panels into alternating current (AC) electricity, which can be used to power your home. This ensures that the energy harnessed from the sun is effectively utilised.
With all these benefits, switching to solar power could save you money while helping protect our environment.
Introducing Solar Tiles
If you’re looking for all of the benefits of solar panels without the look of solar panelling, solar tiles may be the way to go.
Solar tiles replace your roofing and mimic the look of traditional materials such as shingles – they are designed to be energy-efficient whilst looking attractive on your property. Solar tiles are a popular choice for new builds or buildings in residential areas where solar panels might stand out too much amongst neighbouring homes.
If you’re looking for an effective way to lower your carbon footprint whilst not changing the visual outlook of your home too much, solar tiles are a great option!
Air-to-Water Heat Pumps
An air-to-water heat pump is a brilliant way to make your home more sustainable whilst reducing your reliance on traditional gas boilers. These clever systems work by extracting heat from the outside air and transferring it to your home’s water heating system – even when temperatures outside are quite low!
The heat pump operates rather like a refrigerator in reverse, using electricity to power a compressor that concentrates ambient heat from the air. This can then be used for both your domestic hot water and central heating needs. Whilst the initial installation costs may be higher than a conventional boiler, air-to-water heat pumps are incredibly efficient, typically producing three to four times more heat energy than the electrical energy they consume.
Not only do these systems help reduce your carbon footprint, but they can also lead to significant savings on your energy bills, especially when paired with other sustainable improvements like solar panels or improved insulation. As the UK moves towards net-zero targets, installing an air-to-water heat pump could be a savvy investment for future-proofing your home’s heating system.
Wind Turbines
Another addition to consider for a more sustainable home is wind turbines.
At the residential level, small-scale turbines are typically mounted on rooftops or free-standing poles, allowing homeowners to generate electricity directly from the wind.
By harnessing gusts of airflow, these systems can produce up to enough energy to completely offset household electricity use — sometimes even providing surplus electricity back into the grid!
This reduces reliance on fossil fuels and helps reduce overall carbon emissions since no combustion is involved in its generation process. Plus, with their sleek designs, modern turbines often add aesthetic appeal and environmental value to any property.
Water-Saving Fixtures & Features
Installing water-saving fixtures is one of the best ways to make your home more sustainable. This includes low-flow faucets, aerators, showerheads, and toilets indoors, and a change in watering habits outdoors, too.
Low-flow faucets reduce the amount of water used during hand-washing or cleaning dishes. Aerators are small devices that attach to existing faucets to mix air with water to conserve it while still maintaining adequate pressure.
Water-saving shower heads use less water than traditional ones, providing a strong stream to clean quickly. Specialist water-saving toilets boast improved flushing power and efficient designs that save money and resources.
Homeowners can significantly decrease their water consumption by investing in these eco-friendly products. And since they don’t require any major changes like rerouting plumbing systems or tearing down walls, installation is quick and easy – not to mention cost-effective!
Energy-Efficient Appliances
Moving on, energy-efficient appliances can help make your home more sustainable. These appliances use less electricity compared to standard models or antiquated energy sucking appliances, which helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions while saving you money on utility bills.
Energy-efficient appliances might be slightly more expensive than standard products. However, over time these investments will pay off in terms of reduced operating costs and improved environmental performance.
One of the most popular energy-efficient additions is also the smallest; energy-efficient light bulbs, such as LED bulbs. These are incredibly easy to find and install and help to reduce energy waste when lighting your home.
Rainwater Harvesting System
Rainwater harvesting systems are an excellent way to make your home more sustainable. These systems capture otherwise lost rainwater and store it for later use in the garden, for cleaning or other purposes.
The components of a rainwater harvesting system include gutters, downspouts, storage tanks, filters and pumps. Gutters collect water from the roof and direct it through downspouts into a storage tank or directly onto the ground.
The tank size should be determined based on how much water will be needed when there is no rainfall. Filters can also clean out any debris before it enters the tank. Pumps may also need to be installed if you plan to irrigate with stored rainwater or use it indoors and outdoors.
With its low cost and easy installation process, adding a rainwater harvesting system to your home effectively reduces utility bills while becoming more self-sufficient and environmentally friendly.
Composting System
Continuing from the discussion of rainwater harvesting systems, installing a composting system is another way to make your home more sustainable.
Composting involves collecting and decomposing organic matter into plant nutrient-rich fertiliser, such as kitchen waste, garden trimmings, or manure. Its primary benefit is that it reduces the amount of household waste sent to landfills and turns it into something useful instead.
Composting can also benefit energy savings since it eliminates the need for chemical fertilisers, which require significant energy inputs for their production and transport.
Additionally, composts are full of nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus, essential for healthy plant growth; this makes them an excellent resource for gardens and lawns. Finally, having a compost bin in your garden will attract helpful organisms like earthworms and other insects, which can help keep pests away naturally without needing pesticides or herbicides.
Energy-efficient windows are an important addition to a more sustainable home. These windows can reduce the heat lost from your house in winter and keep it cooler in summer by blocking much of the sun’s radiation.
Not only do they help with insulation, but they also use less energy to maintain temperatures within the house than other window styles.
Adding insulation to your home is a great way to increase its sustainability. The improved insulation will help keep the temperature inside more stable, which means less energy needs to be used for heating and cooling. You could consider insulation such as:
Weather stripping around windows and doors
Door sweeps on exterior entryways
Caulk or spray foam where there may be gaps in walls
Additional attic insulation
By taking these steps, you will notice a difference in how comfortable your home feels and how much money you save by reducing your energy bills each month!
Green Roofs
A green roof, also known as a living roof, is an excellent addition to make your home more sustainable. Green roofs are covered with vegetation and soil, which provide numerous environmental benefits. They help to insulate your home, reducing the need for heating and cooling, and can also absorb rainwater, reducing runoff and the risk of flooding.
Green roofs improve air quality by filtering pollutants and can create a habitat for wildlife, promoting biodiversity in urban areas. Additionally, they can extend the lifespan of your roof by protecting it from the elements.
Installing a green roof may require professional assistance, but the long-term benefits for both your home and the environment make it a worthwhile investment.
The Bottom Line
These steps may seem small, but they are significant in making your home sustainable – something we all should strive for. Making these changes today may even benefit you financially and will pay off in the future by creating a greener planet for generations to come. If, of course, there are still enough generations left to come…
Designing your toddler’s bedroom isn’t just about choosing pretty colours or matching furniture – it’s about crafting an environment that nurtures their blossoming creativity and supports their developmental journey. With that in mind, here’s how to transform your little one’s room into a haven of imagination, guided by well-established principles of child development.
The Power Of Colour & Light
Toddlers are naturally drawn to bright, contrasting colours, but this doesn’t mean we should paint every wall in primary hues. Instead, consider creating a neutral, calming base with strategic pops of colour to stimulate curiosity without overwhelming their developing sensory system.
Natural light plays a fundamental role in regulating your toddler’s sleep-wake cycle and overall wellbeing. Position their play area near a window, but ensure you have effective blackout solutions for naptime and bedtime. The presence of natural light throughout the day helps establish healthy sleep patterns and provides an ever-changing canvas of shadows and light that naturally stimulates curiosity.
Educational Murals & Wall Art
Educational wall murals such as those from Photowall can transform a bedroom into an immersive learning environment. Consider designs that grow with your child: a world map that initially offers colour and visual interest can later become a tool for learning about different countries and cultures. Nature-themed murals featuring woodland creatures, sea life, or the solar system provide natural conversation starters about the world around us.
However, choose designs thoughtfully—avoid overwhelming patterns and opt for murals that can be changed or removed as your child’s interests evolve.
Creating Zones For Different Types Of Play
Different types of play—particularly pretend play and constructive play—support various aspects of your toddler’s development. Create distinct areas in your toddler’s room that encourage these different play styles:
A cosy reading nook with soft cushions and easily accessible books encourages early literacy and provides a quiet space for settling down. When books are displayed at your child’s height and in an inviting setting, they’re more likely to develop a natural interest in stories and reading.
A simple play kitchen or shop corner supports imaginative play, which helps develop social skills and emotional understanding. Keep it simple—a few wooden crates and basic props often inspire more creativity than elaborate setups, as they leave more room for imagination.
Freedom To Move And Explore
Movement is essential for toddlers’ physical development and learning. Incorporate elements that encourage safe physical activity: cushions for climbing, stepping stones, or a hanging pod chair can help develop spatial awareness and motor skills whilst making the room more engaging.
Storage That Empowers Independence
A child’s sense of autonomy grows through their ability to make choices and access their belongings independently. Install low shelves and use clear containers so your toddler can see and choose their toys. This setup helps them learn to make decisions and take responsibility for their belongings.
Sound & Music
Creating opportunities for musical exploration and auditory development can enrich your toddler’s space. A dedicated music corner with simple instruments like xylophones, drums, or shakers allows for spontaneous musical expression. Consider a small speaker for playing gentle background music or audiobooks during quiet play. Being mindful of sound also means incorporating soft furnishings that help absorb noise and create a more peaceful environment.
Bringing Nature Indoors
Including natural elements in living spaces has long been recognised as beneficial for wellbeing. Consider adding child-safe plants, nature-themed wall art, or a small indoor sand table. These elements can help create a calming atmosphere while providing sensory experiences that support development and an interest in the environment, too.
The Art Of Balance
Remember that whilst it’s important to create an engaging environment, avoiding overstimulation is equally crucial. Leave some empty space on walls and shelves—this ‘breathing room’ helps prevent sensory overload and gives children space to focus on their chosen activities.
Interactive Wall Features
Beyond traditional decorative elements, consider adding interactive wall features at toddler height. A magnetic board for shape sorting, a felt board for storytelling, or a wipeable surface for early mark-making can transform empty wall space into engaging activity zones. These features encourage fine motor skills and creative expression while making use of vertical space—particularly valuable in smaller rooms.
Flexibility For Growing Minds
Perhaps most importantly, leave room for change. Young children learn through exploration and experimentation, so create a space that can evolve with your child’s interests. Consider magnetic walls for displaying artwork, easily rearranged furniture, and storage solutions that can adapt to changing needs.
The Bottom Line
When implementing these ideas, start small. Observe how your toddler uses different spaces and elements in their room, and adjust accordingly. Sometimes the simplest changes—like lowering a bookshelf or adding a cosy corner—can have the biggest impact on their engagement and independence.
Remember, the goal isn’t to create an Instagram-perfect room, but rather a space where your toddler feels safe, inspired, and empowered to explore. By thoughtfully considering these elements, you’re creating an environment that supports your child’s natural development and nurtures their innate creativity.
The key is creating a space that balances stimulation with serenity, educational opportunities with pure play, and current needs with room to grow. When thoughtfully designed, your toddler’s bedroom becomes more than just a place to sleep—it becomes a launching pad for learning, creativity, and adventure.
Christmas can go two ways. If you’ve had a brilliant year, it’s the perfect time to cosy up and bask in the festive glow. However, if you’ve separated from your children’s other parent, the sight of twinkling lights might fill you with uncertainty.
We understand how challenging this time can be. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of family law arrangements or simply trying to make sense of it all, here are some thoughtful ways to help you create meaningful moments during the festive season with your children after separation.
Reinvent Christmas (In Your Own Time)
That first Christmas without the kids around might feel particularly difficult. But consider this: you have the opportunity to create new traditions and celebrations. Think about choosing another special day to exchange presents, share a meal, and enjoy time together. It’s not about replacing Christmas Day, but rather about creating additional moments of joy.
Many children appreciate having two celebrations, as long as you’re mindful of the timing. The key is to avoid asking them to split December 25th between houses. Nobody needs the pressure of two Christmas dinners in one day, regardless of how tempting it might sound.
When it’s not your turn with the children, try to plan activities that keep you connected with others. Staying home alone can intensify difficult emotions. Consider alternating years – one year you’re creating Christmas memories with the children, the next you’re exploring new traditions for yourself.
Open Conversations With Your Children
Discussing Christmas arrangements with your children requires sensitivity and care. For younger ones, clear plans provide security, much like any other routine. For older children, including them in some of the planning discussions can help them feel heard and respected by both parents.
Finding Balance During Challenging Times
Managing emotions during separation is complex, and divorce can bring forth a range of feelings that need acknowledging. While it’s important to process these emotions, try to share them with your adult support network rather than your children. Young ones are remarkably perceptive to the emotional climate around them, even when they seem absorbed in their own activities.
Focus on creating gentle, positive moments when you’re together. These will become the memories that matter.
Building a Supportive Network
The statistics tell us something important: 42% of marriages end in divorce, with nearly half involving children under 16. This means many parents are navigating similar challenges. Connecting with others who understand your situation can provide both practical advice and emotional support.
If you know others in similar circumstances, consider creating new shared traditions. A pre-Christmas gathering or a quiet Boxing Day meal can offer comfort and companionship.
Finding Comfort in Giving Back
While managing practical holiday arrangements, remember to tend to your own wellbeing. The Mental Health Foundation notes that helping others can provide a sense of purpose and connection, particularly during challenging times.
Consider volunteering at your local food bank or participating in community events. These activities can provide meaningful structure to days when you’re not with your children.
Managing Gift-Giving Thoughtfully
Consider coordinating with your former partner about presents for the children. This can help avoid duplicate gifts and ensure neither parent feels pressured to overcompensate. You might decide to give joint presents for bigger items, or agree on spending limits that work for both households. Remember that children value your presence and attention more than expensive gifts.
Creating New Traditions with Extended Family
Extended family members often feel uncertain about how to navigate the holiday season after a separation. Have open conversations with grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other family members about how they can best support you and your children during this transition. Consider establishing new routines that allow children to maintain meaningful connections with both sides of the family, perhaps celebrating with different relatives on different days.
The Bottom Line
Surviving Christmas after separation requires patience and understanding. While compromise is essential, remember to be gentle with yourself as you adjust. Different doesn’t necessarily mean diminished – it can mean the beginning of new traditions that hold their own special meaning.
This Christmas might look different from those past, but with time and care, you can create warm and meaningful celebrations that work for everyone involved.
There’s a saying in Italy: “Non si mangia per vivere ma si vive per mangiare” – we don’t eat to live, we live to eat. And in the Eternal City, this philosophy rings truer than anywhere else, for it’s often said (in my stupid head anyway), that the Romano de Roma has an emulsion of Pecorino and pasta water running through their veins.
From centuries-old trattorias serving up perfect plates of carbonara to innovative fine dining joints pushing culinary envelopes all over the negozio, Rome’s food scene is a surprisingly satisfying balance of tradition and gentle innovation.
Indeed, Rome’s culinary landscape isn’t just about trippa alla romana and cacio e pepe (though both are certainly worth crossing continents for). The city plays host to everything from traditional Roman-Jewish cuisine to contemporary seafood restaurants, with its own take on pizza and deep fried street food rubbing shoulders and sharing lanes with some of the most affordable Michelin-starred experiences in Europe.
Yes, Rome has it all, but in a city where every cobblestone seems to hide either a cosy trattoria or a smart contemporary bistrot, it can be hard to separate the tourist traps from the treasures. We’re here to help you find only the greatest; here are the very best restaurants in Rome.
Armando al Pantheon, Pigna (Historic Centre)
Ideal for pinpoint renditions of Rome’s most cherished classics…
It could be argued that Rome’s Pigna district – the part of the historic centre that contains the Pantheon – is one of the city’s worst places to dine. Full of subpar gelato and couldn’t-care-less trattorias, finding a faithfully rendered rendition of Rome’s famous four pasta dishes in this part of town is surprisingly difficult.
All that changes if you’ve landed yourself a table at Armando al Pantheon. Just steps from the ancient dome, Armando al Pantheon is one of Rome’s proudest flagbearers of the city’s true culinary heritage. The Gargioli family’s dedication to Roman cuisine spans over fifty years, evident in the textbook versions of Roman classics that bless every plate that leaves their kitchen.
It’s Armando’s commitment to seasonal Roman ingredients and techniques that have largely vanished elsewhere that raises the restaurant above the rest. Their panino coratella, a sandwich filled with tender lamb offal, represents the kind of authentic Roman dish that’s increasingly hard to find. It certainly doesn’t harm that it’s bloody delicious.
Look, too, for puntarelle (Catalonian chicory) with anchovy sauce and carciofi alla romana (simmered artichokes) in the cooler months. When it warms up, delicate stuffed zucchini flowers take centre stage. It almost goes without saying that the carbonara, amatriciana et al are pinpoint versions.
Save room for the tiramisu, which is, quite simply, not even the same dish from your fridge cold Saino’s version. Their wine list improves yearly, featuring small producers from across Italy, with house wines offering exceptional value at modest prices. The house red (a smooth, fruity Rossé Ribelà) is keenly priced at just 28 euros. What’s not to love?
Armando al Pantheon is closed on Sundays, and is open for both lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday.
Another fine restaurant a gladiator’s gallop away from a famous Roman monument (this time, the Colosseum and Forum double-header), is Alle Carette.
In a city where pizza can be hit-or-miss, especially in tourist-heavy areas, Alle Carrette stands out as a neighborhood gem that’s maintained its integrity and quality for decades. Housed in a space that feels authentically Roman with its copper-colored walls and bare-brick arches, this bustling pizzeria serves up some of the finest thin-crust pies in the Eternal City.
The pizzas here epitomise the traditional Roman style – a satisfyingly thin and crispy affair with perfectly charred edges and plenty of structural integrity. While the classic fennel sausage number never disappoints (especially with the buffalo mozzarella upgrade), you should really try their namesake La Carrette, featuring a salty but harmonious combination of guanciale, taleggio, and tomato. When in Rome, and all that…
Whatever you do, don’t skip the fritti – their zucchini flowers stuffed with mozzarella and anchovies are legendary, and the fried baby artichokes (carciofini), served simply with a quarter of lemon, are among the best in Rome. Quite the claim in a city full of the stuff, we know, but one we’re happy to vouch for…
Despite its location in the trendy Monti neighborhood, prices at Alle Carrette remain remarkably reasonable, making it a favourite among both locals and savvy tourists who are either in-the-know or have just happened to chance upon the place.
The atmosphere strikes that perfect Roman balance – lively enough for a group dinner but still intimate enough for a casual date. In the warmer months, the small outdoor seating area offers prime people-watching opportunities. Book ahead for dinner, though the efficient service means walk-in waits are rarely too long.
Keep in mind this is a proper sit-down pizzeria – no by the slice vibes here. Even more excuse to get stuck in, we think!
Alle Carrette is open for both lunch and dinner, 7 days a week.
In a city where street food has ancient roots, Supplizio elevates the humble suppli – Rome’s beloved fried rice ball – into an art form. Acclaimed chef Arcangelo Dandini’s charming spot near Campo de’ Fiori feels more like a cozy living room than a takeaway joint, with its terracotta floors, exposed brick walls, and comfortable leather sofas inviting you to linger over your crispy treats (though not too long – a queue’s forming!).
The menu revolves around creative interpretations of the classic suppli, each handcrafted with premium ingredients including long-aged Carnaroli rice and organic vegetables, and all priced at €3. While the traditional ragu and mozzarella version is executed perfectly, those keen to ground themselves even further in the Eternal City’s food traditions should of course try the cacio e pepe or carbonara versions. Don’t miss their other fritti – the smoked potato croquettes and anchovy meatballs with Dandini’s house-made garum (a nod to ancient Roman cuisine) are standouts.
Honestly, it’s all excellent. Everything is cooked to order, ensuring each golden-breaded morsel arrives at the perfect temperature for that iconic string of melted mozzarella (what Romans call the ‘telephone line’) when pulled apart. Order yourself a Peroni or two before moving on – it’s an almost obligatory accompaniment.
Since 1860, Piperno has been serving refined Roman-Jewish cuisine from its palazzo dining room. The service, complete with bow-tied waiters, makes you feel like minor nobility. Start with the impossibly light fried starters – the filetti di baccalà (fried salt cod) and potato croquettes are mandatory. The seafood risotto and fontina-enriched gnocchi show there’s more to Roman-Jewish cuisine than just frying. Save room for their legendary zabaione.
Ideal for Rome’s most authentic food market experience…
In a city of great markets, Testaccio’s stands out for its pitch-perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Housed in a modern structure since 2012, this bustling market manages to honour its 19th-century roots while embracing contemporary Roman food culture. With over 100 stalls spread across 5’000 square metres, it’s both a neighborhood essential and a food lover’s paradise.
While the market excels at fresh produce, meats, and seafood, it’s the prepared food stalls that make it a dining destination. Don’t miss Mordi e Vai (Box 15), where former butcher Sergio Esposito crafts transcendent tripe sandwiches from traditional Roman recipes – their tripe panino, which houses intestines simmered in a savoury, tomato-based broth, is legendary. Grab a ticket; you won’t have to wait long for your number to be called.
Opposite Mordi e Vai, Casa Manco (Box 22) serves exceptional pizza al taglio using whole wheat flour. The stracciatella, courgette flower and anchovy number is intense and immense. No wonder Food and Wine recently declared Casa Manco “the world’s best pizza”. Arguably, Manco’s porchetta sandwiccia is even better.
Across the way, Le Mani in Pasta (Box 58) offers fresh handmade pasta you can watch being made. For wine lovers, Da Corrado (Box 18) pairs natural wines with some of Rome’s finest meatballs. It’s all here, and it’s all absurdly satisfying.
Visit in the morning (it’s open Monday through Saturday, from 7am to 2:30pm) when the market is at its liveliest – though expect a rush of local students around lunchtime. The modern facility even incorporates visible Roman ruins beneath glass floors, though this archaeological area is only accessible on Tuesdays with reservations. While tourists are welcome, this remains very much a working neighborhood market where quality and value still reign supreme.
Ideal for power lunches of Rome’s finest cacio e pepe…
The recent refurbishment of this Testaccio institution proves that updating tradition doesn’t mean selling your soul. Rather than infuriating locals and killing the inherent vibe of the place, the renaissance of this historic spot (first opened in 1936) has once again made Da Felice one of Rome’s buzziest trattorias, a decade after rumours of its decline began circulating. It’s got a slicker, more modern feel now, sure, yet the food remains steadfastly Roman.
Their tonnarelli cacio e pepe is still widely considered Rome’s best – they finish it tableside with a dramatic flourish, tossing the pasta enthusiastically with salad servers until properly luscious and creamy. We’d travel to this corner of Testaccio just for a bowl of the stuff – in fact, it’s a great choice for a power lunch, with speedy, efficient service meaning you’re in and out in less than an hour if you want to be. Not before you’ve ordered the signature tiramisu, though, which is served in tall glasses with a cheeky surprise of chocolate ganache lurking at the bottom.
Book well in advance and expect to see everyone from local politicians to food TikTokers in the exposed-brick dining room.
Ideal for Rome’s, and therefore the world’s, finest amatriciana…
A traditional trattoria close to chic Piazza San Lorenzo in Lucina, La Matriciana (the historic spelling reflects the restaurant’s 1870 origins) strikes that perfect balance between informal, paper-tablecloth charm and gently refined Roman cooking. It’s a match made in heaven; this historic establishment has been perfecting its craft for over 150 years, and it shows in every dish that leaves the kitchen. It’s a Roman institution, make no mistake.
The restaurant’s namesake pasta all’amatriciana is, naturally, the star of the show – a tangle of perfectly al dente bucatini in a rich sauce of crisp hand-cut guanciale and slow simmered San Marzano tomatoes. A comically large, serve-yourself silver gravy boat of pecorino is placed on your table with some ceremony, sealing the deal. It’s absurdly good – the best bowl of pasta we’ve had anywhere in the city. Or, perhaps, the world…
Don’t take those words too close to heart and enter with a myopic vision for the ama’, mind. It would be wrong to overlook the other Roman classics here, like their excellent saltimbocca alla romana or the seasonal artichokes, prepared either ‘alla romana’ (braised with herbs) or ‘alla giudia’ (crispy fried in the Jewish style). You could order both, you know, The wine list, featuring around 600 labels, is a cut above the usual trattoria standard.
Reservations are recommended for dinner (you can usually snag a table on the same day, if you’re willing to eat post 10pm), though less essential for lunch. Tables spill onto the pavement in summer, offering prime people-watching opportunities in this elegant corner of Rome.
Prices are a little above what you’d normally pay (the headlining dish is €18) but entirely reasonable given both the location and the quality – this is how Roman cuisine should be. Word of warning: there’s another restaurant of a similar name – La Matriciana ai Consoli – down in Don Bosco. It could well be delicious, but it’s not what you’re looking for.
Please be aware that La Matriciana is closed on Saturdays.
Ideal for the city’s signature offal, done perfectly…
The food of Rome is rooted in the so-called quinto quarto (the fifth quarter), which celebrates the ‘less noble’ parts remaining from the animal slaughter. One of the best places to sample this side of the cuisine is at L’Osteria della Trippa, across the river in hip Trastevere.
Despite its name suggesting a singular focus on tripe, this modern osteria offers much more than only Rome’s famous offal dishes (though those are indeed exceptional). Open since 2019, here chef Alessandra Ruggeri has created a menu that pays homage to Roman traditions while adding contemporary flourishes that feel natural rather than forced.
The house specialty trippa alla romana is indeed unmissable – strips of tripe braised until tender in a rich tomato sauce with pecorino and mint – as is the fried tripe (there’s a recipe on their website, by the way!) but don’t overlook other seasonal standouts like the fava bean puree with a knot of braised wild chicory, which is just gorgeous, or the veal sweetbreads served over aubergines, which were a special delivered only verbally.
The wine list is particularly strong on natural and biodynamic options from small Italian producers, with plenty of exciting options by the glass for around the €5 euro mark. It came as no surprise to anyone familiar with Ruggeri’s generous cooking and hospitality that Michelin awarded L’Osteria della Trippa a Bib Gourmand within a year of its opening.
Such is the ever burgeoning reputation of chef Sarah Cicolini, that she really could be cooking anywhere. The fact she chose this modest space in Rome’s southeastern residential Appio-Latino quarter to serve her elevated trattoria fare speaks volumes about her desire first and foremost for flavour over frippery.
Her carbonara at Santo Palato has a cult following, sure, but the real draws are dishes like the delicate trippa alla romana and wagyu heart tartare that show off her refined fine-dining tekkers while respecting Roman traditions. No wonder Stanley Tucci was in awe of the place when he visited for his Searching For Italy series recently. To finish, the maritozzo with grano arso flour is unmissable.
Ideal for a superb value set menu of Roman classics near the Pantheon…
If you’re only in Rome for a whistle-stop tour and you’re keen to try as much of the cucina romana as you can possibly fit in, then Hosteria Grappolo d’Oro is a no brainer.
Moments from Campo de’ Fiori, this is that rare find – a centrally-located restaurant that maintains high standards despite the tourist crowds. The exposed wooden beams and warm service create the perfect setting for textbook versions of Roman classics. Their five-course Roman tasting menu is a steal at €34, and the wine list features excellent bottles from Lazio and beyond at fair markups.
That menu starts with a refined trio of traditional antipasti, presented tastefully but tasting robust and fully flavoured (the puck of panzanella is particularly good). Then, it’s onto pasta, and here you’ve a choice of the holy Roman trinity (sorry alla gricia, you don’t make the cut). Go for tonnarelli cacio e pepe, which is a particularly decadent rendition, heavy on the pecorino emulsion and even heavier on the black pepper. Just as it should be.
The procession continues with oven roasted lamb or cod in tomato sauce and ends, of course, with a a perfectly proportioned tiramisu – it’s the real deal. What a fantastic, ridiculously cheap meal, right in the heart of Rome. With tables able to be reserved as late as 11pm, it’s perfect for a late night bite, too.
Open every day for lunch dinner, except Wednesdays, when it’s only open for dinner service.
Ideal for outdoor dining and people watching in Trastevere…
This tiny Trastevere spot draws crowds for good reason – the Roman classics are done faithfully, and the vibe is always just the ride side of raucous.
Enzo’s outdoor tables on the adjacent cobblestone street are prime real estate, especially during summer evenings. While you wait for one (and you will wait), they’ll serve you beer from plastic glasses and, if you’re lucky, a few snacks.
Once seated, it’s the usual (we say that with enthusiasm, rather than a sense of weariness) fritti, puntarelle, artichokes, pastas and sweet treats. From the latter section of the menu, their Nutella-dotted tiramisu has a cult following. Such a following, in fact, that on any given night of the week it’s sensible to pitch up at least an hour before opening time (6:30pm), to get a place in the queue to nab yourself a table for that first round of service. If not, you’ll be watching a whole round of diners eat before you (in every sense of the word), which can be a little demoralising.
Ideal for modern Italian fine dining and the puffiest of pizza…
In a city devoted to tradition, Allegrío dares to be different. Chef Gianni Di Gregorío’s contemporary takes on Italian classics have earned both critical acclaim and a devoted following among Rome’s culinary cognoscenti (as well as a little criticism from the purists, it should be said). The restaurant’s opulent and enjoyably camp design – all massive sun sculptures, every shade of gold and plenty of crushed velvet – provides a fitting backdrop for plates that are as visually striking as they are delicious.
In a city so devoted to tradition, Allegrío brings a welcome splash of contemporary flair to Via Veneto. Opened in 2023 and already ranked among Italy’s Top 50 pizzerias, this 150-seat restaurant delivers drama in spades.
The space is divided into four distinct dining rooms, each with its own personality: Joyful (tropical warmth), Lucky (gold and red velvet), In Love (adorned with 500 Capodimonte porcelain roses), and Intrepid (wild, exotic colors). It’s opulent and enjoyably theatrical in a very Roman sort of way, setting the stage for a dining experience far removed from the trattorias and osterias further south into town.
While the restaurant offers refined Italian cuisine in the form of a handful of tasting menus (the full Dolce Vita experience is priced at €95 for eight courses with four wines), it’s Allegrio’s pizza program that’s earned the most accolades. Helmed by Peppe Aiello and Ivano Veccia, the Neapolitan-style pizzas deliver perfectly balanced, extravagantly puffed crusts giving way to a pillowy interior. The Diavola, featuring a blend of seven different peppers, house nduja and shocking pink ricotta, shows their mastery of simple flavours with just a touch of the playful.
On the restaurant side, Executive Chef Daniele Creti offers seasonal menus that respect tradition while embracing innovation. Their signature ‘La Carbonara My Way’ (€45 for two), prepared tableside and finished with 24k gold, epitomises the restaurant’s balance of classic technique and contemporary showmanship. The wine list, curated by sommelier Davide Gelormini, is appropriately extensive for a restaurant of this confidence and calibre.
Open daily for lunch and dinner until 12:30am (Sundays from 10am).
Ideal for impressing your date with the finest ingredients in town…
More than a restaurant, SalumeriaRoscioli is a temple to exceptional ingredients. The counter heaves with pristine cheeses and salumi, while the cellar holds nearly 3,000 wines.
Yes, everyone orders the carbonara and cacio e pepe (can’t keep saying ‘when in Rome’, can we?), and they’re undeniably excellent. But the real move here is to start with their burrata, all splayed out and topped with clusters of semi-dried, intensely flavoured tomatoes, then shift on to a little premium charcuterie and something from their daily seafood selection. The pesce bianco del giorno (fish of the day served with pine nut cream and seasonal greens) is always a winner.
Avoid the basement tables if possible – things get a little dingy down there. Instead, book well ahead and be specific about wanting a ground floor or counter seat. It’s where the action is.
Ideal for offal lovers and natural wine enthusiasts…
We came here on a recommendation from Osip’s Merlin Labron-Johnson, and we’re so glad we did. Trattoria Trecca has quietly become one of Rome’s best spots for offal since opening just four years ago in this out of the way spot down in Ostiense, a few minutes from the San Paolo metro stop.
It’s a handsome room to sink into. Natural light pours in through the huge windows that make up Trecca’s facade, reflecting off the brown and white chessboard tiles and marble topped dining tables that set the scene. Both are easily wipeable, and this is a place you want to roll your sleeves up and get messy in. Their regaje di pollo e patate (chicken giblets with potatoes) makes the ol’ quinto quarto accessible even to skeptics – it’s tender, aromatic with herbs, and served sizzling in a skillet alongside impossibly crisp potatoes.
While their Roman pasta classics are solid, you’re here for the offal and their always-excellent daily specials. If it’s on the menu, order the pajata (suckling veal intestines) skewers, which arrive blistered and burnished from the grill in a pool of good quality olive oil. They’re superb.
The wine list focuses on natural producers but isn’t dogmatic about it – just funky, drinkable drops that just seem to pair so perfectly with this kind of food.
Ideal for serious wine at fair prices and fritti that will wow you…
Take tram 8 from Centro Storico’s Via Argentina to its final stop right in the heart of suburban Gianicolense for some of Rome’s finest fritti (fried starters), precisely cooked pasta and other trattoria standards, all done to a commendably high standard at Cesare al Casaletto. Their polpette di bollito (meat croquettes in basil sauce) should open every meal here, ideally alongside impossibly light fried fish which is served in a cone that spills out all over the plate.
Follow it with a bowl of gnocchi fritti con cacio e pepe (fried gnocchi with pecorino and black pepper sauce), which may sound like overkill but tastes like genius, and is a welcome, very minor diversion from the classic spaghetti or rigatoni. The wine list is agreeably unique for a trattoria, with small producers and reasonable markups. Book ahead for their shaded patio in summer.
Ideal for Rome’s most innovative pizza, date nights, design lovers
The minute you walk into Seu Pizza Illuminati, you know this isn’t your typical Roman pizzeria. Perhaps you already guessed that from the name, quite frankly…
The Copenhagen-meets-Trastevere design sets the stage for Pier Daniele Seu’s boundary-pushing pizzas, which are regularly named some of the best in Italy by the tastemakers in recent years.
Keeping both purists and pioneers happy, the menu smartly divides between old school classics and Seu’s more inventive creations, with the pizzas straddling Roman and Neapolitan pizza traditions (with a little New Haven thrown in for good measure) to arrive at a pizza that’s uniquely Seu; crisp and fluffy, generous but refined.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try the octopus and cherry pizza which inexplicably works, and finish with a strawberry and rhubarb ‘dessert pizza’ which, erm, inexplicably also works.
As if that wasn’t risky enough, a six course tasting menu is also available for €45. Dishes are of the chef’s choosing.
Ideal for the city’s finest Roman-Jewish cuisine and a historic atmosphere…
In the heart of Rome’s Jewish Ghetto, Nonna Betta serves some of the most straightforward, downright delicious versions of Roman ‘cucina kosher’ classics that you’ll find in the city.
Their carciofi alla giudia (Jewish-style artichokes) are consistently perfect – crispy, meaty, and never greasy. The beef-stuffed agnolotti shows how Roman-Jewish cuisine extends beyond just fried snacks into something all the more wholesome. The dining room, with its vintage photos, huge murals and wrought-iron details, adds to the experience without feeling touristy. There are plenty of intimate nooks and crannies to get lost in on those more blustery Rome days, but if the sun’s out, Nonna Betta has plenty of outdoor seating in the connecting square.
Nonna Betta is open for lunch and dinner every day.
Inside Rome Cavalieri, a Waldorf Astroia Hotel, Rome’s only three-Michelin-starred restaurant earns its reputation through precision rather than pretension. Chef Heinz Beck’s German exactitude meets Roman ingredients in dishes that wow – properly wow – without showing off. After 30 years of cooking here, the food still feels fresh and alive – a remarkable achievement, quite frankly.
The dining room has recently had a refurb, and is now rendered in striking mauves and coppers. The wine cellar is legendary – let sommelier Marco Reitano guide you through it. Yes, it’s expensive (the 10 course tasting menu is priced at €350), but the level of cooking, service, and the stunning view over Rome from the terrace justifies the splurge for a special occasion.
Located in affluent Parioli and serving squeaky fresh, pristine seafood, Capo Boi could be stuffy but isn’t. Instead, dining here feels like being at a sophisticated friend’s dinner party – just one who happens to have access to Rome’s best seafood, and chooses to show it off in a big, icy display at the entrance. Hey, this friend sounds like an absolute blast!
Anyway, the crisp Sardinian flatbread pane carasau topped with baby octopus and shavings of bottarga sets the tone for the meal – a heady, oceanic bite that’s both light and eminently satisfying. Follow it with a whole turbot to share, which arrives blistered from the grill, still on the bone and ready for picking over. The restaurant’s starched white tablecloths don’t stand a chance.
Come with a group to justify ordering the impressive crudo platter, the sharing braised whole octopus, and multiple pasta courses – the paccheri with grouper and asparagus is particularly good.
Ideal for quinto quarto classics in the heart of Testaccio…
Don’t let the pared back dining room at Piatto Romano fool you – this Testaccio spot close to the Tiber serves some of Rome’s most carefully prepared classics. Their seafood dishes shine unexpectedly bright for an inland trattoria – try the stir fried lamb’s lungs and heart, served with sweet onions, for a taste of a long forgotten Roman classic. Warming to a theme, the horse meat coppiette (essentially jerky), which pairs so well with a cold Peroni.
The Thursday gnocchi and Friday fish specials follow Roman tradition, but it’s their pajata (milk-fed veal intestines, here served with rigatoni) that draws the crowds every day of the week (except Sundays, when the place is closed). Come hungry – portions are generous, even by the city’s usual hearty standards.
We’ve eaten a lot of trattoria classics by now, which is great, but sometimes a little innovation and experimentation is needed in a city so wedded to tradition. Enter Retrobottega…
This moody spot serves boundary-pushing dishes that still respect Roman ingredients. Chefs Giuseppe Lo Iudice and Alessandro Miocchi often forage for ingredients in the surrounding Lazio countryside themselves, and that dedication to provenance shows on the plate in dishes like broccoli tortellini with wild marjoram, and slow braised beef cheeks with barbecue carrots and hazelnut.
Though both of those dishes are available on the a la carte to be enjoyed at the large, central communal table, the €75 tasting menu is the way to go here – it features off-menu classics and plenty of extra innovation, all served at an intimate six-seat counter. Recent dishes included a katsu sando of escarole, caciocchiato cheese and umeboshi, and a sunflower and yellow courgette risotto.
The natural wine list is exceptional, focused on small producers and with plenty available of drops by the glass for as little as €6. Book well ahead – the intimate space fills up quickly.
We end, naturally, with something sweet. Not technically a restaurant, we know, but in a city swimming in gelaterias, Otaleg (that’s ‘gelato’ spelled backwards, in case you hadn’t noticed) stands head and shoulders above the competition. Located between Piazza San Cosimato and Piazza San Calisto in Trastevere, this artisanal gelato shop showcases the extraordinary talent of Marco Radicioni, an alumnus of Rome’s gelato maestro Claudio Torcè.
The shop’s name mirrors its inverted design concept – the gelato laboratory takes centre stage in the front, rather than being hidden away in the back. Here, you can watch Radicioni work his magic with a stunning vertical Cattabriga machine, turning premium ingredients like Valrhona chocolate and Madagascar-Bourbon vanilla beans into some of the city’s most compelling frozen treats.
The pistachio is, quite simply, transcendent – rich, nutty, and impossibly smooth. Pair it with their fior di latte, which comes with an inspired grapefruit marmalade twist. The seasonal fruit flavors change regularly, making repeat visits essential, while more adventurous options like gorgonzola showcase Radicioni’s creative flair.
Though the Trastevere outpost is smaller than the original Portuense location, every scoop is made fresh on site, maintaining the exceptional quality that’s made Otaleg a destination for serious gelato aficionados. Take your cone for a stroll through Trastevere’s cobbled streets – it’s the perfect way to end a meal after eating in one of the neighborhood’s trattorias.
