Quinteassential Tea Review

Quinteassential Tea Review: August 2016

Any excuse to bring out the family China and indulge in a spot of tea is gladly welcomed. Therefore, my excitement peaked when I was presented with the opportunity to work with the exclusive Cheshire based Quinteassential tea brand. The brand has grown vastly from their humble roots where trading was initially at local farmers markets and foodie festivals. The brand name coined from the adjective “quintessential” represents the brand ethos of class, quality and to ultimately provide their clients with a perfect cup of tea. Bernadine Tay founded the brand in 2010 stating that, “One of my earliest and fondest memories was my mother boiling water in a tin kettle she loved, carefully preparing the black tea with oranges, while we sat round the table for some cakes and conversation”. Created with heart and soul Bernadine has uniquely personalised each blend from inspirational life events, people she has met, conversations and foodie influences. Giving each of the tea blends individual character and charm.

Marriot London Countyhall Afternoon Tea Review

Marriot London Countyhall Visit: August 2016

The Marriot London Countyhall extended me an invite to partake in their amazing Afternoon Tea experience in the lovely library lounge. The hotel enjoys an enviable position situated adjacent to the river Thames right in the heart of central London.  First impressions count and the Marriot Countyhall do not disappoint. Upon arrival we made our way through the grand astounding arched gateway. The bold topiary island was impressive and added some much needed greenery into London city. Greeted with warmth from the bellboy we knew this was going to be an extraordinary exquisite experience.

Côte Brasserie Manchester Review

Côte Brasserie Visit: August 2016

Fancy a culinary whirlwind tour across France, from Languedoc in the South, Brittany in the west, then right into the heart of Paris?  No flight or Eurostar tickets are required, located on St Mary’s Street just off deansgate awaited our French paradise, Bonjour Manchester Côte Brasserie!  An inviting entrance offering outdoor seating, topiary ball trees with green foliage and quaint rustic signage.  Inside, we were shown to cosy and cute booth style seating which provided a good viewing point to watch the world go by and imagine that we were in the very heart of France.  The rustic and contemporary décor retains that French charm and character.

Black Dog Ballroom Northern Quarter Manchester Review

Black Dog Ballroom Northern Quarter Manchester Visit: August 2016

Walking through the Northern Quarters charming and characterful streets, right there at the heart of Manchester’s Northern Quarter amongst a creative eclectic mix of independently owned shops, bars and restaurants, we spot the original Black Dog Ball Room. The “Black dog” theme is constant but not overkill appearing on the building’s exterior, cool trendy neon door and on the creative artwork header plaque as you step down into the New York style speakeasy Bar and restaurant.

Riverford Organic Farmers Review

Riverford Organic Farmers Review: July 2016

Riverford “believe in good food, good farming and good business”.  “Waste not want not” is Riverfords core ethos.  Also, demonstrated by showing support for Hugh’s War on waste campaign. #Wastenot. 47,000 Riverford boxes a week get delivered to homes around the UK from their regional farms.  Unbelievable considering that Guy Watson started the Riverford box scheme in Devon delivering fresh vegetables locally to just 30 friends.