ABSOLUTE Sussex magazine birthday edition 2018

ABSOLUTE ISSUE 142 SUSSEX BIRTHDAY EDITION 2018

FASHION | STYLE | CULTURE | LIVING | TRAVEL

150 places

+ Qatar

Add Qatar to your journey as you discover the world Make Qatar a part of your incredible journey by enjoying a free hotel stay and free transit visa when you fly to any of our 150 destinations.* Please visit qatarairways.com/plusqatar for the full details of the offer. *Terms and conditions apply. Please review at the time of booking.

Index 8 14 36 42 48 56 60 64 66 71 72 76 78 82 84 88 92 96 106 112 131 132 136 142

CITY NEWS FASHION #BE MORE SNAIL AUDIO ACTIVE i360 ONE YEAR ON OLIVER CUNNINGHAM RINA TARIO FIZZ & FOOD BARS & BEATS COFFE & CAKE BOK SHOP DOUGH LOVER FOUNTAIN INN COMMUNITY KITCHEN BOHO GELATO ADELFIA THE GIN TUB & SHIMMER BRIGHTON'S CHAGING FACE LONDON LIFE WELCOME TO SEYCHELLES PHOTOGRAPHY FEATURE SUPPLEMENT FASHION BY KASIA DARWIN FOREST LE PUY FRANCE

Contributing Editors - Charlie McBrien | Victoria Marie Emerson | Lindsay Katherine Hills | Pete Hayward | Kasia (The Styling Agency) Tony Shattell (food reviewer) | Louise Maloney Fashion, Beauty & Interior Styling Editor - Kasia (The Styling Agency) Features Editor - Victoria Marie Emerson - info@absolutemagazine.co.uk Designer - Pete Hayward - petehayward.design Owners - Publishers Simon Darcy Abbott - simon@absolutemagazine.co.uk David Camici - dcamici@absolutemagazine.co.uk Cover Photography Daren Black Photography Model Layla Harris First Model Management, London Clothes KANKAN seychelles Location Kuramathi Maldives

ABSOLUTE is owned and produced by Make a Difference Media Ltd Absolute offices 1 Preston Road, Brighton, BN1 4QU

6

All advertising enq: info@absolutemagazine.co.uk connect with us www.absolutemagzine.co.uk facebook/absolutemagazine twitter/absolutesussex instagram/absolute_magazine

The Editor

W

elcome to our third birthday edition can it really

be three years since we relaunched this much loved Brighton magazine. Now fully Sussex wide in its distribution added to its family a Seychelles

Maldives and Ibiza special editions with plans for next year to add another three more substantial international titles. Absolute is

flourishing from its humble routes, and we thank all our wonderful

readers from now not only our city base of Brighton but across the globe and our advertisers and supporters without you we wouldn't be able to produce such luxurious magazine and online services for

our readers. We hope you enjoy this special edition for Sussex. And here are to many more years of absolute.

Absolute

ABSOLUTE

7

ABSOLUTE

News

Boundary Brighton

Sky Dining

Glow Wild As darkness falls, let the magic begin…

Walk through Wakehurst's beautiful botanic gardens and majestic woodlands - brought to life with glowing, handcrafted lanterns.

A magical winter experience the whole family will adore awaits you every Thursday to Sunday from Thursday 22nd to Sunday 16th December. Absorb the architectural beauty of the 16th century mansion before marvelling at the UK's tallest living Christmas tree and enjoy toasting marshmallows or chestnuts over giant fire bowls with hot chocolate or mulled wine in hand. Festive crafts, foodie treats and latenight opening of the Visitor Centre shop will ensure you have Christmas all wrapped up.

8

Spend an elegant evening amongst the stars on 20th September. Enjoy a magical threecourse meal on the British Airways i360 pod, with the sparkling lights of Brighton & Hove spread out like a carpet beneath you. Start your evening with a drink from the bar in our exhibition space at ground level before boarding the observation pod, which will be laid for fine dining and decked with romantic white lights. As the evening unfolds, relax at your table over a glass of wine as the pod glides slowly from ground level to 450ft and back again, watching as the sky darkens, the sun sinks into the sea and the stars appear overhead. Book the perfect dinner experience for an intimate table for two or a lively party of up to ten. Price: £85pp, including a threecourse meal, half a bottle of wine at the table and coffee. Adults aged 18+ years only.

Brighton Beach Boys End of Summer Party

The Brighton Beach Boys End of Summer Party is returning to Brighton Open Air Theatre for the fourth year running, bringing the sunshine sounds of California.

This annual season topping show features the hits of The Beach Boys from Surfin' Safari to God Only Knows; this is a show packed with Good Vibrations.

Join the party and celebrate the last days of summer with this fantastic family-friendly musical party.

ABSOLUTE

Taking the best of Brighton’s creative energy, lust for life and generosity of spirit, Boundary Brighton is a festival in Stanmer Park with three stages of music, a vintage fair, delicious local food and other unexpected treats, all nestled between the crest of the Downs and the City with the sea below.

Back by popular demand, the Drum & Bass Stage returns to Boundary on 29th September 2018 with local hosts OneAway and a line-up of both established legends and exciting up and comers. Label mogul, party promoter, razor-sharp selector: Logan D’s entire life is fuelled by drum & bass.

Armed with an innate ability to tease any crowd across the globe, his distinct blend of strong-arm, bass-bolstered jump-up will be an undoubted highlight at Boundary.

Other legends join the OneAway stage’s line-up; one of the UK’s founding fathers of Drum & Bass, DJ Phantasy, with over 300 released tracks; Randall, a name synonymous with D&B and Jungle with over 25 years in the game; Grooverider, another icon and trendsetter of over 12 years. They join other exciting names, such as fast-rising star Mollie Collins, Bristol-born but Brighton-renowned HizzleGuy, Cotesy, Ripraw, A Plus AKA Arron Crascall, plus special guests ‘Distress Signal’ (AKA K Motionz, Simula & Kanine feat. MC)

On the MC front, some of the biggest names in the history of the genre will take to the OneAway stage, including ‘the most innovative personality in Drum & Bass’, Skibadee.

All these join previously announced acts including DJ EZ, Jaguar Skills, Gorgon City, Jax Jones, Kurupt FM, Mistajam, Shy FX & Stefflon Don. They will appear in one of two huge big tops being hosted

by The Arch and Supercharged. www.boundarybrighton.com

London Philharmonic Orchestra

Dave Gorman: With Great PowerPoint Comes Great ResponsibilityPoint The man behind Dave TV’s hit show Modern Life Is Goodish is back on the road with a brand new live show and will be paying a visit to The Dome, Brighton on 30th September. As the title suggests, he’s bringing his laptop and projector screen with him so expect the ‘King of Powerpoint comedy’ (Guardian) to have more detailed analysis of those parts of life you’ve never stopped to think about before.

Moscow Nights Like any true classic, Rachmaninoff’s Second Piano Concerto always sounds new – and in the hands of a pianist as insightful and as skilled as the young British superstar Benjamin Grosvenor it’ll never have sounded grander. Taking place at The Dome, Brighton on 20th October, conductor Alondra de la Parra will bring her signature verve to an all-Russian programme that begins with Glinka’s firecracker of an overture, and ends in the triumph of Tchaikovsky’s unashamedly autobiographical Fifth Symphony.

The #BEAUTIFULLIFE TOUR 2018 with very special guest Gabrielle is coming to The Brighton Centre on 3rd November.

Two years ago Rick Astley returned with an album that surprised everyone, even himself. His number 1 album ‘50’ sold over 300,000 copies and was one of the biggest selling albums of 2016.

What was even more incredible was that Rick wrote, produced and played every instrument on that comeback disc.

Oktoberfest Brighton After the success of the 2017 event, Oktoberfest is back for 2018 at the new home of The Level, with some additional sessions added.

The action takes place inside one of Europe's largest touring bier tents, bringing a Bavarian style festival including a showcase some of the best and authentic oompah bands from around the world across all three sessions. Plus a large selection of traditional German foods plus those all important steins!

Rick Astley

ABSOLUTE

In a career spanning over 30 years, Rick Astley has sold over 40 million records worldwide. ‘50’ has over 10 million UK streams, 20 million worldwide while his classic ‘Never Gonna Give You Up’ has had over 140 million streams on Spotify alone! Singles from ‘50’ had over 12 million You Tube views while Rick has over 600,000 followers on socials.

9

ABSOLUTE

News

Shadow Circus Mansion Party Book your ticket now for Neon Moon's infamous Halloween show at Stanmer House, Brighton on Saturday 3rd November 2018.

Venture into the twisted realms of your soul as we bring you haunted creatures of the night! Featuring a world class dining experience, international cabaret, circus and burlesque acts. Explore multiple rooms of boutique and installation and party with the hottest DJ's playing the eclectic retro sounds of Swing and Soul fused with modern Bass music: Drum'n'Bass, House and Hip-Hop. Do you dare explore the Mansion for the ultimate house party?

10

The Prodigy

Culture Club

The Prodigy return to Brighton on 5th November with a new tour coinciding with the release of their seventh studio album "No Tourists".

‘The Life Tour’ with Belinda Carlisle & Thomson Twins’ Tom Bailey is arriving at The Brighton Centre on 13th November.

Always uncompromising, The Prodigy’s influence can be seen across generations, turning metal kids onto raving and ravers into metalheads. The band put out genre destroying record after genre defying record and from the very start, The Prodigy were renegade revolutionaries. Put simply, The Prodigy are no tourists and never were.

The band have clocked up a staggering 6 number 1 albums, sold 30 million records, played to many millions around the world, and won multiple honours (two Brits, two Kerrang! awards, five MTV awards, two Grammy nominations). Though much has changed in the musical and social landscape, what remains a constant is The Prodigy’s resolute focus to always do things their own unique way and in 2018 the urgency and irrepressible spirit of The Prodigy has never been more needed.

ABSOLUTE

Since their inception in 1981 Culture Club have sold more than 50 million records worldwide, with a stream of classic hits including; ‘Do You Really Want to Hurt Me’, ‘Karma Chameleon’, ‘Church Of The Poison Mind’, ‘Victims’, ‘It’s A Miracle’ and ‘The War Song’

The group is fronted by singer/songwriter Boy George, universally recognised as one of music's most iconic artists. George was recently presented with the Ivor Novello lifetime achievement award in 2015 for his contribution to the music industry.

Roy Hay, Mikey Craig and Jon Moss make up the remaining original line up for one of the most exciting tours of the decade!

Glitterball Christmas Party Celebrate the festive period in style at one of the Glitterball Christmas Parties!

The Human League Sea Stars Visitors to Sea Life Brighton this October half term are in for a treat as the aquarium unveils its dazzling new creature installation Sea Stars, which will open to the public on 10 February.

Featuring more than 170 sensational sea dwellers from across the world, Sea Stars is the UK's largest celebration of the ocean's most visually captivating, and most important creatures, the humble 'star fish' Although the image of 'star fish' is used frequently – even featuring in the Sea Life Brighton logo – visitors should not be fooled. These creatures come in a range of different shapes, sizes and colours, and far from the traditional five-armed sea star that is easily recognisable, some can have up to 200 arms!

With creatures aplenty and a range of interactive and sensory-led activities, Sea Stars will provide education as well as fun and entertainment for visitors of all ages this February half term and beyond.

The story of The Human League encompasses three very distinct line-ups, all of which have their merits but one thing unites them; The Human League are A Very British Synthesizer Group. Yes, ‘group’ not band because those kinds of distinctions are important.

They’re a group who have sold millions of records, inspired two generations of artists, written some of the all-time great classic pop songs, had #1’s across Europe and the US and yet still remain fiercely independent. They’re also a group that are going to grace the scene at The Brighton Centre on 23rd November.

When attempting to describe The Human League their one-time manager, Bob Last, puts it best “Pop music is a kind of lightning conductor for what’s going on, when it’s at its most exciting it beats everything else; it beats film, beats books and beats TV. These magical moments when it pulls something out of the ether, out of what’s going on in everyone’s head and everyone’s lives and focuses it. That’s what pop does at its best and that’s what The Human League did”.

ABSOLUTE

Enjoy a lively atmosphere dining with groups of other businesses in the unique beachside event space overlooking the iconic West Pier ruins and after dinner, continue your party by dancing the night away to the live DJ.

The party package includes a three-course meal, half bottle of wine per person and a festive pod flight on arrival.

Florence + The Machine Florence + the Machine has announced the ‘High As Hope’ UK Tour and it is coming to The Brighton Centre on 25th November.

This follows the news of Florence + the Machine’s hugely-anticipated new album, ‘High As Hope’. The record was officially launched with the striking video for first single ‘Hunger’, whilst Florence also made her return to the live stage with intimate UK & US shows.

Fourth album ‘High As Hope’ already has the feel of a career-defining moment for Florence, venturing into new territory as much as it reaches back to one’s roots. A recent show at London’s Royal Festival Hall was greeted with a series of 5-star reviews, in which Florence also teased further new material for the first time (“one of the most thrilling shows of the year,” The Times; “a euphoric return by a singular talent,” The Telegraph; “a towering performer twists back with power and poetry,” Evening Standard”).

11

6:10 PM Praslin “There are times you share − and there are times you don’t share with anyone, except each other.”

12

ABSOLUTE

www.raffles.com/seychelles

ABSOLUTE

13

A B S O L U T E

Away Days

PHOTOGRAPHY Daren Black Photography MODEL Layla Harris First Model Management, London CLOTHES: Walk in Wardbrobe - Hove. Raffles Boutique, Kankan, Jouel - Seychelles Swimwear by eco label - Pursuit The Label LOCATION: locations - Bird Island Seychelles / Carana Beach Seychelles / Eden Island Seychelles / Kurumba Maldives / Kurmathi Maldives

14

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

15

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

20

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

21

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

Innovative. Distinctive. Original.

26

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

27

28

ABSOLUTE

29

30

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

33

Image by Darren Black

34

ABSOLUTE

Image by Robin Bradshaw

276 Vauxhall Bridge Road - London SW1V 1BB Tel : 0207 436 9095 info@firstmodelmanagement.co.uk www.firstmodelmanagement.co.uk

#BeMoreSnail This autumn Brighton will be hit by mollusc mania, as fifty giant snail sculptures, each uniquely decorated by different artists and sponsored by a local business, will sneak their way onto the streets of Brighton & Hove. Championed and supported by Brighton’s own creative mogul Normal Cook aka Fat Boy Slim, the event will run for 9 weeks, from Saturday 15th September until Sunday 18th November 2018, encouraging locals to become tourists in their own city, spend time with friends and family hunting for every sculpture, and, to engage with the event’s key campaign message of #BeMoreSnail.

#BeMoreSnail is the motto of Snailspace, the UK’s first sculpture trail featuring giant gastropods, which is being organised by Martlets Hospice in conjunction with event partners, Wild in Art. The idea behind #BeMoreSnail, is to encourage people to slow down, enjoy the moment and spend more time with the people they love. It resonates with the philosophy behind the life-changing care provided by the hospice, and, at the end of the event, the sculptures will be auctioned off to raise money for it.

Norman Cook has a reputation for championing artists and most recently commissioned urban artist, Bordalo II, to create a giant sculpture of a seagull from recycled plastic at his Big Beach Cafe. He’s also no stranger to giant animal sculptures as in 2016 he sponsored a Snowdog, as part of Snowdogs by the Sea. Called ‘Boomer’, it was transformed into a working Boom Box by Ryca and sold for £20,000.

Norman explains why he’s involved in the project:“ I loved the experience of being involved in Snowdogs by the Sea. The giant canine sculptures captured peoples’ imaginations and really brought the city together. The snail is an inspired choice as I love the idea of something usually so small being made large. I also love the fact that you just bump into a sculpture on your way into work, or your everyday journey, and it just makes you smile. There is also something about the whole idea of #BeMoreSnail which resonates. I think it is important to slow down and spend a bit more time doing the things we love, with the people we love.”

He continues on why he wanted to collaborate with Cassette Lord: “I’ve been a fan of his work for a long time and this seemed like a great project to work on together. I know he’s going to bring something special to the snail….. We ‘re also planning an exhibition of street art when the project goes live in September.”

36

The event also has the back of other local celebrity residents. Best-selling crime author, Peter James will have a snail based on his highly acclaimed Roy Grace series and popular vlogger and boyfriend of Zoella, Alfie Deyes, will also have a giant snail on the route. A comprehensive map and an interactive App will also support the sculpture hunt. The App will encourage visitors to ‘bag’ as many sculptures as possible by tracking how many snails they have found, enable them to vote for their favourites, and, unlock special ‘rewards’ each time a sculpture is found.

Businesses across the city are also backing the campaign, from Brighton institutions such as The Brighton Palace Pier, Donatello’s and Theatre Royal to newer attractions such as the i360. It has also found support amongst many corporates and B2B companies. Many want to support Martlets, as it is a charity that touches the lives of everyone living locally. Others are keen to support a campaign that brings such a life affirming, feel-good community event to the city. However, some are also embracing the business benefits of the #BeMoreSnail idea, which places importance on work life balance, recognising that happy staff are also more productive.

ABSOLUTE

Many want to support Martlets, as it is a charity that touches the lives of everyone living locally. Others are keen to support a campaign that brings such a life affirming, feel-good community event to the city.

UPPER OPPOSITE, MARTLETS SNAILS ON BRIGHTON PALACE PIER, TOP, NORMAN COOK SNAILSPACE AMBASSADOR ON BRIGHTON PALACE PIER, BELOW, CASSETTELORD

Also involved is Danni Smith is a young, local artist whose design was chosen by The Ivy in the Lanes restaurant. It is her first big commission and she’s delighted to be involved in the project and explains what her inspiration was: “I’ve got an allotment and feel it’s really important to incorporate bee-friendly plants as bees are decreasing in numbers. My snail will be covered in choisya, sunflowers, poppies, roses, michaelmas daisies and even dandelions which people often think of as weeds, but they are an important plant for bees. Each season will be reflected to show how easy it is to grow bee-friendly plants all year round.

My sponsor is The Ivy restaurant and during Snailspace they’ll making a few bee-related adjustments to their menu which is amazing.”

Many of the artists creating a snail for Snailspace are using a bright colour palette but perhaps none will be as vibrant as local artist Francesca McLeod’s snail. She explains what inspired her design:

“I wanted my snail to represent Brighton and it’s diverse and vibrant nature and so it’s going to be very colourful and fun and has a drag queen theme. The design will have a hint of the Pride flag as that festival is such a big event in the Brighton calendar.

I’m incorporating various elements of male and female drag and my design will include a beard, vibrant make-up, glitter, pearlescent paint and lots of twinkle. My usual colour palette as an artist is more muted so it’s great to be able to be bolder with this project. Working on the snails together with other artists in a warehouse space means we’re able share ideas and tips, and there’s a really great community feel.”

ABSOLUTE

37

UPPER OPPOSITE, CLOCKWISE, ARTIST DANNI SMITH, FRANCESCA MCLEOD, NORMAN COOK AT MARTLETS SNAILSPACE LAUNCH, DANNI SMITH, ARTISTS AT WORK, SNAILSPACE MASCOT SNAIL AT WEST PIER, NORMAN COOK (FATBOY SLIM) WITH ARTIST CASSETTE LORD, LUCY PIPPER, ABOVE LEFT, TINA DAVIES, TOP RIGHT, ARTISTS AT WORK, LOWER, SNAILSPACE - HOVE LAGOON

Well known in the city for their urban murals, Charlotte and Dan Doherty, artists known as Art and Believe, have based their design on their travels to South America and have named it Inca Snail.

Dan said: “We see the spiral of the shell as a journey. The snail is a bit like a backpacker but carrying its home on its back instead. We have used an intricate pattern like you’d find in textiles but blown it up so it is bold.” Charlotte said: “

“I think ‘be more snail’ means chilling out, slowing down and taking control of your wellbeing. It’s a good message, rather than rushing and going mad it’s important to take care of yourself. When we travelled for example, we stopped in places for a while to paint with local people.”

Painter and Potter Tina Davies will be using an unusual technique to transform her snail. She explains:

“I’m being sponsored by Martlets Care. The Martlets is really special to me – I have visited the hospice a number of times and know people who have spent time there so I’m really happy to be involved with Snailspace.

bamboo stick – anything but a brush. For me, it really made sense so that’s what I’ve done ever since. When you paint with your fingers it allows you to get closer to your subject and you can feel your way into it.

I love gardening and flowers and I’ve been inspired to paint poppies on my snail as they reflect the ephemeral nature of life. Poppies are so fragile looking yet have the resilience to grow almost anywhere. They are self-seeding and the cycle of life carries on – that’s what I wanted to represent. There’s a lovely field of poppies up at the back of the Brighton Amex stadium which is really worth visiting over the summer.

Poppies don’t last for long and they are a reminder about being in the moment. A snail does that as well, it lives life at a slower pace and we can learn so much from that way of being. I try to be mindful and live my life that way so painting a snail feels appropriate!”

For more information or to download a map visit www.snailspacebrighton.co.uk

I paint using the tips of my fingers to make a range of marks. I trained as a potter, so I was used to getting my hands into whatever I was doing and then I went on a life-drawing course where you had to paint with your feet, fingers, a

ABSOLUTE

39

40

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

41

*****

AudioActive

Rag’n’Bone Man joins forces with local music youth charity AudioActive

M

ulti-award-winning musician Rag’n’Bone Man has joined forces with local charity AudioActive to help support young grassroots talent in Sussex. Rory Graham aka Rag’n’Bone Man visited Brighton and Worthing during a series of short documentaries raising awareness of AudioActive and its social change projects for underprivileged teens.

The documentaries, which can both be viewed on red Bull’s YouTube channel, follow Rory speaking with participants at AudioActive, highlighting the positive impact the charity is having on young people, their mental health and their future prospects.

AudioActive is a Brighton-based charity dedicated to improving the lives of young people through music. The charity and its beneficiaries believe it’s a powerful tool for social change, education and personal development.

Adam Joolia, CEO of AudioActive, said: "Sadly, in an education climate that rewards STEM & attainment over creativity and innovation there will always be winners and losers. Many of our most promising creative young minds are like square pegs in round holes in this system but ironically the very qualities that make them such unique, promising artists and trailblazers (not being afraid to take risks or challenge convention) can often make them hard to nurture within formal institutions. We are seeing far too many awe inspiring young people, failing in education (and being failed by education) and never being given the opportunity to make their mark in the world.

We have been working on a response to this issue for a long time and new support from Arts Council means we can now get to work

42

“

We are seeing far too many awe inspiring young people, failing in education (and being failed by education) and never being given the opportunity to make their mark in the world.

UPPER OPPOSITE, RAG'N'BONEMAN BY 2EIGHT LOWER OPPOSITE, RAG'N'BONEMAN AT AUDIOACTIVE

BY TERRY APPLIN

on our ‘Square Holes’ programme which will ultimately aim to level the playing field for such young people and emerging artists."

After supporting the work AudioActive does to nurture local musical talent informally since 2012, Rory joined as a patron of the charity when his international career started take off in 2016. Commenting on work with AudioActive, Rory said: “AudioActive are doing something to ensure that regardless of wealth or background, young people get a chance to be creative. I can’t support that enough. Big love.”

ABSOLUTE

43

AudioActive

RIGHT, ADAM JOOLIA OPPOSITE TOP, AUDIOACTIVE OPPOSITE BOTTOM, RAG' N' BONE MAN WITH AA

Adam Joolia, CEO of AudioActive, added: 'We are delighted to be working with the extremely talented Rag’n’Bone Man. Partnership is a key part of our philosophy and young artists are at the heart of our work, so it’s great to collaborate with such a positive role model. Many of the young musicians at AudioActive come from disadvantaged backgrounds, where there is violence in the home or where they are affected by mental health issues, and music offers the platform to overcome these obstacles.

Our mentors not only support emerging artists, they also help them become a positive influence on a new generation of talented and marginalised teenagers.

We’ve just started on our next mission, to further nurture young talent through establishing the UK’s first Centre of Excellence in urban and electronic music.”

With Rag’n’ Bone Man’s support, AudioActive has also taken a big step towards their exciting vision to establish the UK’s first centre for excellence for the talent development of marginalised and under-represented artists in Worthing.

Thanks to £92,618 National Lottery funding through Arts Council England.

44 44

Rory explained his passion for the cause.

“Creativity is really important and I think it gets overlooked a lot for young people these days and opportunities to be creative get pushed to the sidelines - people aren’t told enough that they can have a career if you are passionate about this - that’s the reason this cause is so important to me. Being there and seeing the effect that the AudioActive programmes have on young people is amazing. The fact that young people from all different backgrounds and headspaces are there and getting involved shows that it really works. It was through these types of outlets and those around me that I built my confidence and I want the same for others - the support and encouragement being offered through AudioActive is powerful and relevant and I can’t back that enough”

For more information on fundraising for AudioActive or to make a donation visit – www.audioactive.com

ABSOLUTE

“

Our mentors not only support emerging artists, they also help them become a positive influence on a new generation of talented and marginalised teenagers.”

“

We’ve just started on our next mission, to further nurture young talent through establishing the UK’s first Centre of Excellence in urban and electronic music.”

ABSOLUTE

45

Hove Beneath The Gin Tub Shimmer

the Worlds First cocktail selfie bar

"Experience Unique Night Out"

46

ABSOLUTE

Shimmer Open till 3am 16 Church Rd, Hove, BN3 2FL info@thegintub.co.uk Opening Times Friday 20:00 – 03:00h Saturday 20:00 – 03:00h

ABSOLUTE

47

THE

i360

Another Year On As the city celebrates the second birthday of this now iconic landmark that stands proud on Brighton’s historic promenade, Absolute takes a look at the magic moments of the first couple of years and what the future holds.

I

n it’s first two years, the team behind the i360 have welcomed more than 500,000 visitors, all keen to ride 450ft high above the city in the glass viewing pod, sharing magical moments together pointing out city landmarks, artwork on the rooftops, windfarms out at sea and the rolling coastline stretching away to the horizon. The i360 has offered inspiration and delight to hundreds of thousands of people and it’s provided some important benefits to this wonderful city. Most of the attraction’s funding came from central Government’s Public Works Loan Board – but did you know that Brighton & Hove City Council earns around £1m a year from brokering that loan, plus additional income from business rates and ticket sales? The company have now paid £2.6m to Brighton & Hove City Council in loan repayments; and this is in addition to £1m set-up fees paid during the construction period.

The council is using the £1.8m profits from these payments to regenerate the seafront, with £1.1m earmarked to help restore Madeira Terraces and £700,000 to fund the elegant landscaping work that is now finished on either side of British Airways i360.

A year after British Airways i360 opened, the effects of this regeneration can be seen all around us. Visitors to the city are now seen to be enjoying the new 2,500 sq m public spaces and the new monument that’s been created using the columns from the old West Pier, which looks particularly striking when viewed

48

from the pod at night. New businesses are moving into the restored West Pier Arches and the increased footfall is creating a real buzz on this part of the seafront.

In this bumper year, there have been many highlights, but the i360 team have especially delighted in being rated as ‘excellent’ or ‘very good’ in almost 80% of TripAdvisor reviews. BA have created 150 new jobs, all paying at least the Brighton & Hove Living Wage, plus many more in the wider city as a result of business partnerships, local supply chains and additional visitors to this part of the seafront.

39,000 free tickets have been given to the city’s children – one for every child in a state school in Brighton & Hove 192 free school trips have been facilitated.

“ 39,000 free tickets have been given to the city’s children – one for every child in a state school in Brighton & Hove 192 free school trips have been facilitated. ”

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

49

THE

i360

Another Year On

British Airways i360 was conceived and designed by Marks Barfield Architects, creators of the London Eye and the landmark has already won 9 awards for design and innovation, including a RIBA National Award, received 1 royal visitor, HRH The Duke of Edinburgh, who officially opened the attraction in October 2016 and supported 7 charities, including Trust for Developing Communities, their local charity partner.

of Brighton and Hove and British Airways i360 is bringing visitors from all over the world. It’s unique – just like our city!”

She also praised the attraction’s free school ticket programme, speaking “as governor of two schools”, saying: “In the first year of operations you have given 39,000 free tickets to the city’s children, one for every child in a state school in Brighton & Hove, and that makes me very proud indeed.”

For the first five years, operating profits after loan repayments will be ploughed back into the business, as BA continue to improve the customer experience and work with other attractions to draw more visitors to our beautiful city.

Brighton & Hove City Council Chief Executive Geoff Raw also spoke at the event, saying: “What’s fantastic about British Airways i360 is that it is a beacon for Brighton and a real positive statement of confidence that we are a place which continues to try and get international profile and bring investment into the city.”

To raise a glass to mark the first birthday, a private party was held in the British Airways i360 beachfront event spaces and was attended by almost 150 people including city councillors, senior members of the council administration, funders, partners and members of the project’s design and construction team.

Summing up the achievements of the first couple of years, Mayor Marsh said: “Tourism is really important to the economy

“

Speeches were also delivered by David Marks, chairman of British Airways i360, and Steve Bax, executive director. Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus performed at the event, and guests enjoyed a special British Airways i360 birthday cake which was a model of the attraction made by Brighton Cakes, complete with tower, pod and two tollbooths.

Tourism is really important to the economy of Brighton and Hove and British Airways i360 is bringing visitors from all over the world. It’s unique – just like our city! ”

50

ABSOLUTE

51

THE

i360

Another Year On

So what does the future hold for British Airway’s i360? It is certainly going to be a busy and exciting year ahead from the looks of things. Visitors will of course continue to be whisked off their feet by taking a now infamous ‘Flight.’ If you haven’t experienced this already, you will not be disappointed! The glass viewing pod is fully enclosed and spacious – it’s 10 times the size of a London Eye capsule. There is room for up to 175 visitors to stand at the edge of the pod and look out, or to move around and see the view from different angles. The Sky Bar on board the pod serves Nyetimber sparkling wine and other drinks from Sussex, including Rosé MV, Harvey’s Brewery Gold Bier, Brighton Gin and Folkington’s tonic, Wobblegate apple juice, and South Downs still and sparkling water. You can raise a glass of something special while taking in the views. In fact, one year down the line, 55,000 people have already done just that! The friendly in-flight crew will welcome you on board, point out landmarks and answer any questions. Plus as the weather takes a turn, the pod is heated ensuring year-round comfort and it is fully accessible for wheelchair users.

A viewing map is available and a multi-lingual app can be download before you board. The app has ‘preflight’ information about how British Airways i360 was built, as well as an in-app viewing map and a children’s section with fun facts and a treasure hunt.

At the end of your flight, the pod descends into the beach building.

This year will see a whole host of special events taking place within the hallowed pod, starting with ‘Live @ The Sky Bar, on the 5pm, 5.30pm, 6pm and 6.30pm flights every Friday evening. Start your Friday night on a high, gather your friends and bring them down to Brighton seafront to enjoy breathtaking city views, fabulous drinks from the on-board Sky Bar and chilled jazz and soul music – all 450 ft above the city! While the singers hit the high notes, enjoy a drink from our on-board Sky Bar. Normal flight prices apply, including the half-price tickets for Resident Members.

Perhaps the most unique dining experience in the city, ‘Sky Dining’ has been launched to rave reviews and will continue throughout the forthcoming year, with the next date being the 25th October. Enjoy a magical three-course meal on the British Airways i360 pod, with the sparkling lights of Brighton & Hove spread out like a carpet beneath you. Start your evening with a drink from the bar in the

52

exhibition space at ground level before boarding the observation pod, which will be laid for fine dining and decked with romantic white lights.

As the evening unfolds, relax at your table over a glass of wine as the pod glides slowly from ground level to 450ft and back again, watching as the sky darkens, the sun sinks into the sea and the stars appear overhead.

Your delicious starter will be served during the first 25-minute flight, followed by the main course during the second flight, and desserts and coffee during the final flight. There will be a break between each flight to use the facilities at ground level. Tickets are £85 per person, including a threecourse meal, half a bottle of wine at the table and coffee. Book an intimate table for two, right up to a jovial party of ten (over 18s only).

With Halloween lurking sinisterly around the corner, the i360 is inviting brave adventurers for their Halloween Fright Flights. Join actors and storytellers from spook-specialists ‘Ghost Walk of the Lanes’ for a ghoulish flight above Brighton & Hove in the British Airways i360 pod. Your blood will run cold as you hear chilling tales of the hideous apparitions that haunt the backstreets, buildings and beaches below. Soar high in a ghoulish flight above the city and hear chilling stories about the hideous apparitions that haunt the streets and beaches below.

The pod-encased merriment continues into the festive period with Glitterball Christmas Parties running from 30th November to 21st December, which involve a three-course meal, half bottle of wine per person and a festive pod flight on arrival.

Come 31st December 18’ you can see in the new year on a high with a glorious evening, including a six-course dinner, wine and entertainment beside Brighton beach.

ABSOLUTE

When it comes to feeding their visitors, the team behind the i360 have it all on a plate ready for you to enjoy. Situated right next to the i360, West Beach Bar & Kitchen opened this year and offers a fun and unique dining experience that celebrates the spirit of this vibrant city by the sea.

Inspired by Brighton & Hove, with its distinctive, incomparable character, the chefs at West Beach Bar & Kitchen are passionate about showcasing local ingredients to create delicious dishes that can be enjoyed together while savouring the stunning views of the sea and the hauntingly beautiful West Pier.

The eclectic mix of interesting people and alternative lifestyles provides an endless source of inspiration, encouraging the chefs to be playful with their creations and not be constrained by any single style, just like the city’s inhabitants! Expect to find comfort in traditional seaside favourites such as Crumbed Catch of the Day and Chips, alongside joyful sharing dishes such as Seafood Buckets with mussels and langoustines, followed by a spectacular feast for the eyes with the Melting Jaffa Pudding.

The bar serves delicious cocktails and a range of locally sourced drinks including Nyetimber award winning sparkling wine, Harvey’s ale, Brighton Gin and Wobblegate juices.

With an interior designed by award winning Marks Barfield Architects and a backdrop of local art from, including a sensational large-scale piece by local neon artist Andy Doig, West Beach Bar & Kitchen will leave you with a unique flavour of this great city.

For a more casual affair, enjoy some of Brighton’s most delicious artisan coffee and tea, deli-style sandwiches and mouth-watering cakes at the awardwinning West Beach Café & Bar. Wrap your hands around a hot drink in the cosy interior or take a table on the private terrace to enjoy sweeping views of the sea, the original West Pier to the south and Regency Square to the north.

The tea room is housed in a reconstructed 1866 West Pier toll booth; one of a pair which was returned to the seafront as part of British Airways i360. The chefs pride themselves on using the best ingredients from Sussex and everything is made from scratch on site.

With so many successes under their belts, the celebrated i360 team have made no secret of the key to their successes over the past year; they attribute it solely down to the people of Brighton and Hove and the unfaltering support they have shown. So join Absolute in a toast to the British Airways i360 dream team and you, the community that has kept it soaring in it’s first couple of years.

Cheers!

53

Rina Tairo

13 & 14 Prince Albert street Brighton, East Sussex bn1 1he t: 01273 774288 e: info@rinatairo.com www.rinatairo.com

9b the Boardwalk Brighton Marina

01273600088 www.memoriesofindiabrighton.com @moibrighton

SAVE 40% OFF YOUR FOOD BILL Sun-Fri cannot be used with any other offers - table booking required

HA I R D R E S S I N G

Oliver Cunningham 'I feel very safe and in expert hands when I’m with Ollie, I trust him completely. His colouring is flawless.'

Leona Lewis

Oliver Cunnigham started his career in hairdressing twenty one years ago and has since created an impressive resume having worked globally for Tony&Guy as well as Daniel Hersherson in Harvey Nichols, from where he moved onto be Head of Colour for Nicky Clarke. He has a repertoire of glitzy clients such as Leona Lewis and Louisa Johnson, as well as Hollywood big names such as Penelope Cruz.

O

liver opened his first salon five years ago, previously as a humble little abode situated in the middle of Hickstead Showground. Many of Ollie’s clients will remember climbing to the top of the outdoor staircase to the small salon situated at the top of the building with views across the Showground, having your hair done whilst dressage horses practise danced their routines in the distance was certainly a novelty experience.

As both his reputation and demand grew, it soon became necessary to expand and look to bigger premises. This is when the salon in Cuckfield was discovered.

For those that have never visited the picturesque village of Cuckfield and may not know, Cuckfield Village is a Sussex hidden gem and was one an old market town with a wonderful High Street lined with 16th Century properties, quaint boutique shops and proper old school English pubs, that once served as major coaching stop on the Old London to Brighton route.

Nestled in the heart of the village you will find Oliver Cunningham Hair - possibly one of the finest independent hair salons in Sussex .

In its latest incarnation opening the doors in October 2016, it has since been voted the “Best in Region 2018” by the prestigious L’Oreal Colour Trophy Award, which he has won of numerous occasions as THE place to go for the best in technical cut or colour. Since then

56

he has invested heavily in the salon and has reinvested in the business. Having undergone a recent refit, the salon is vibrant, fresh and invigorating for all his current clientele. If you are looking to be pampered, treated with a personal touch and being personally looked after, this is the place to be.

Apart from award-winning hair, Oliver Cunningham and his expert team also offer nourishing conditioning treatments as well as manicures and pedicures making you feel a million dollars by the time you step out of the salon. You can have an Olaplex conditioning treatment for example, the latest in real science hair repair and the only system that rebuilds broken hair bonds and leaves the hair feeling soft and shiny. Applied and massaged into your scalp by qualified staff, you can just sit back and relax with your feet up whilst the Olaplex works its magic. Or for those of you on the ‘go’ a Kerastase Fusio conditioning treatment takes no time at all. It is so quick as it is incorporated into your hair wash whilst you are at the basin!

The salon has a wide range of the highest quality products such as Kerastase, L’Oréal, Pureology shampoos, conditioners and stylising products to cater for every customer’s needs. Why not have your nails done or a pedicure by their in house nail technician at the same time as your hair - it is the ideal way to be fully pampered all under one roof at the same time, thus saving you valuable time.

ABSOLUTE

Apart from award-winning hair, Oliver Cunningham and his expert team also offer nourishing conditioning treatments as well as manicures and pedicures making you feel a million dollars

Oliver Cunningham strives to offer the equivalent to London level service and the highest quality hairdressing in Sussex and they certainly do just that. The brand is growing and staying ahead of all the latest trends in coiffure, keeping the constantly growing client base happy.

The fantastic team is made up of technical colourists and stylists. Just to mention a few, Richard Humphreys, Technical Director specialises in colour and has over 20 years experience as a leading colourist in London & Brighton. Richard’s exceptional technical skills, together with his calm and approachable character are guaranteed to deliver what the client is looking for. Jon Moore has also worked for some of the largest names within the industry and is a Brazillian blowdry expert and an ambassador for Kerastraight. Sonia Davies a colour expert with over 30 years in technical colour worked and trained at Tony& Guy.

Morgan Rhodes & Louise Brown, both Creative Directors, together have over 30 years experience in hairdressing. Morgan has created styles for television/music videos & film and is responsible for training and education development within the salon and also specialises in Bridal hair. She has been a member of an International Art team for an elite London salon.

Directors Poppy & James Leech both have in excess of 20 years in hairdressing. James teaches hairdressing having been trained himself in London. Poppy does both colour and cutting and also specialises in glamorous hair up styling.

As the salon approaches the busiest time of the year making glamorous hair styles for Festive season, we encourage clients to book in advance to avoid disappointment!

Email: reception@olivercunningham.com Tel: 01444452900 Instgram; olivercunnghamcuckfield FB: olivercunnghamcuckfield

57

58

ABSOLUTE

FOR BEARDS THAT WORK HARD & PLAY HARD shop online at

www.eastwinggroomingco.co.uk ABSOLUTE @Eastwingroomingco

59 59

A B S O LU T E

I N T R O D U C E S

RINA TAIRO Brighton resident Rina Tairo was born in Finland, is a jewellery designer, with a recently opened exclusive boutique based in Prince Albert Street.

D

erived from a passion for textiles and wearable art, Rina is constantly creating her own exclusive collections, visibly inspired by nature, life and the actual process of creating with natural materials.

Rina’s distinctive design’s are made only in small editions and each piece is individually handmade. Her work has been sold in stores and boutiques worldwide and exhibited at galleries including Sotheby’s and the V&A. In awe of her talent, Absolute Magazine met up with Rina to discover how her journey led her to Brighton and what it takes to have such success in the jewellery design world.

Tell us about the start up of the brand ? How did it begin?

I started making jewellery in Melbourne Australia in 1989. I had been there about a year at that point, making sculptures and drawing and painting. That is my background. I studied art in my hometown of Helsinki, as well as Florence and London. In those days you would often find me at metal dealers rummaging for scrap metal for my sculptures and it was a lightbulb moment one day, after spotting a couple different materials and experimenting with them, that resulted in my first collection of flapper-like strings of caged marbles.

Within a couple of months it was a full time job for me keeping up with demand on my pieces and at that time I invited Ray, my husband, to join and help, particularly in sales. This was followed by other collections and soon my brand was selling throughout Australia, in fashion boutiques and department stores. We had a large following through fashion magazines such as Vogue and Elle and that helped grow the brand.

"Working and living in Brighton has been an inspiration in itself and it is great to be a part of such a vibrant and culturally switched on part of the UK."

60

We were known as one of the most innovative fashion jewellery brands at that time in Australia. We also had our own retail store in Melbourne. Soon we were also exporting to USA, Europe and Asia .

How has the business grown to be where it is now? What has contributed to your success?

The growing demand overseas as well as family concerns led to us moving back to Europe in 1995. For a year or so we were still designing costume jewellery, selling back to Australia and locally to Harrods etc. We were also making collections for fashion houses such as Whistles and Paul Smith woman. Around that time I began to start working with precious metals. I found working with silver gave me the flexibility I needed to really push my textile inspired designs and refine my style. After we were showing at London Fashion Week in early 1998, everything kind of exploded and suddenly we had to expand the business again.

For the next several years we were touring fashion shows, creating three new collections per season and selling to major stores like Liberty of London & Barneys N.Y. as well as high end boutiques all around the world. Coming from fashion jewellery, I was still sticking to that instinct of variety, as I love the new, exploring new possibilities within my designs, overcoming technical obstacles, which is what drives me. Now that I am working more with gold. Often collections evolve overtime. I have taken a slightly slower approach and now I can take my time to perfect my vision, both looking to the future and backwards, through my classic designs from years before to draw new inspiration for my collections.

ABSOLUTE

PHOTO LEFT, RINATAIRO

“

As a schoolgirl I used to embroider cute badges and knit mini bears for hanging from bags , these I would sell to my school friends. So textiles is the backbone for my inspiration."

What inspires you and your designs ?

I am from Finland. Design from Finland is classically quite pared down and refined in a practical sense, whilst also taking visual cues from the land to inspire organic elements to the design.

In my own work, it may not at first glance you may not be able to see clear parallels to this school of thought, however I think it shows itself in the functions of my work through the use of simple clasps and the fluidity of textiles being reimagined through new materials. Through my travels in Italy and Asia, I was inspired to add richer, more grandiose elements and tones to my designs and the two contrasting sources of imagery and design I feel can be seen throughout my work over the years.

Textiles are an obvious obsession. I have grown in an environment where everyone knits and weaves. I used to make all my jumpers and was always interested in haberdashery. As a schoolgirl I used to embroider cute badges and knit mini bears for hanging from bags , these I would sell to my school friends. So textiles is the backbone for my inspiration, but anything around me can start an idea for a collection. It is quite intuitive and my mind is never still, but the key is to find the ideas that take you to the next step.

You are a highly recognised and respected brand. Which fashion labels have you worked with and what campaigns can you share with us ?

Recognition is changing. We have worked with many labels, including Paul Smith for a few seasons, exclusive ranges for Harrods and Whistles back in the day and even a spate of film work; Sleepy Hollow,Love Actually, but now I guess it’s the bloggers and social media that hold more sway on public perception.

Brighton is a unique place to view this change in attitudes towards the high street and the influencers of taste and demand. It is dwarfed in regards to trade and tourism by nearby London, but is still culturally important and unique.

Working and living in Brighton has been an inspiration in itself and it is great to be a part of such a vibrant and culturally switched on part of the UK. However, the city does need to actively support its own homegrown culture or it risks losing it to other bigger cities as even cultural identity comes at a price.

ABSOLUTE

61

RINA TAIRO How has the advent of social media impacted on you, I can see from your online presence you seem to embrace this?

We have been a bit slow on the up-take with social media but nowadays you can find us on instagram@ rinatairo. It’s great to be able to have a window for all of our customers worldwide within which we can communicate the brand and instantly keep people updated on our new collections and shows. The platforms on social media are new and interesting, especially as an independent designer and I feel that it is an invaluable tool that every professional creative must utilise in today’s world.

What materials do you enjoy working with most ?

My preferred material is 18k gold with diamonds and sapphires. I just love the colour of the yellow gold and its supple strength. It is really well adapted to my work.

How do you stay relevant and current, where do you get your inspirations from?

I love people watching. Whether I'm in the store looking out the shop front or walking through the streets, I always like to think about the people around me and try to figure out what it is they resonate with, their styles and tastes and what makes them tick.

It is interesting to see how the moods change over time and how tastes cycle in and out of fashion. I sense that also in myself whilst choosing pieces to wear. When it becomes time for me to plan a new line, I try to take all of these observations on board when imagining what it is that might work for the upcoming season.

For my new collection LUMO I have drawn influence from my home country of Finland, specifically from the stories of ancient Finnish mythology.

62

ABSOLUTE

“ The rich Norse mythology of Finland has such a fantastic and mystic quality with such creative storytelling. From the creation story of Luonnotar, who created the sun and the stars from the shells of eggs broken in the cosmic sea, to the powerful imagery of the Sampo, a mythical hammer used to hammer out the sky at the dawn of time. These stories exploring the power of nature, man and the gods have influenced this collection in many ways, from the techniques I apply to each piece down to the materials I used. For example, pave white diamonds are used with my signature woven gold to represent the glow of moonlight and of enchanting mesmerism and beauty. The pieces from this collection are precious, protective keepsakes.

Which projects are you really excited about for 2018/19? Are there any future plans you can share with us?

Our store is getting a facelift this autumn and we have started exporting again, so we are excited to take that further. The fact that after a few years break we are wholesaling again means we are hitting the ground running and will be bringing out lots of new designs which will also be coming through our Brighton shop front in Prince Albert street.

Why are your designs and service so different to other businesses within the industry? Explain to myself what a Rina Tario client gets ?

There is no underestimating people’s appreciation of the individualistic aspect of this kind of work; not just by the fact it is handmade, but by the idea that this is not factory-derived and each piece is unique.

ABSOLUTE

The work we do resonates with the people of Brighton, who feel they want something as unique and as precious as the city around them."

How has being based in Brighton helped your business? Do you feel the city’s high creativity levels have contributed to your further success?

I think Brighton’s reputation as a creative hub brings other like-minded people to the city.

Whilst the city is small, the atmosphere has a creative charge that can be seen expressed through all of the art and culture that the city produces. Working and living Brighton, I can be sure that I will always be inspired and challenged by my surroundings and that at the end of the day I just need to take the time to look around me to find inspiration and also support as a creative and independent designer.

As for our business in Brighton, I think one of the reasons we have been able to keep our storefront for so long is that the work we do resonates with the people of Brighton, who feel they want something as unique and as precious as the city around them.

I feel one of the reasons we have had success with our store in Brighton is that same attitude that fosters all of the unique talent throughout the city and it is what has enabled me to take my work as far as I have. When people come by the store, they can see and feel that what we are doing is a bit different and unique just like the city we are living in. https://rinatairo.co.uk

63

FIZZ F& FOOD East Beach Café

The Bali Brasserie

Limetree Kitchen

1| Littlehampton: Sea Road, BN17 5GB East Beach Cafe was completed in June 2007 and has since won more than twenty national and international awards for design, architecture, steelwork, craftsmanship and engineering. Not dissimilar to the hull of a ship, it is a self-supporting structure and an extremely complicated piece of engineering.

The whole process from commissioning the architect, Thomas Heatherwick, to completion took 18 months. Thomas heads one of the world’s leading design practices and was described recently by The Times as “the most creative mind in Britain”, the East Beach Cafe was his first UK building.

The emphasis is on fresh fish and locally sourced produce, cooked in a style that lets the quality shine through. The Ritz trained kitchen team produce a standard of food that is fit for such an amazing setting.

5| The Bali Brasserie is proud to present vegan, vegetarian and dairy free dining as well as gluten free. The restaurant inside, ‘Rijsttafe’, (the rice table) is Indonesian themed food on a set menu, but they are able to adapt a meal to almost any dietary requirements. Meaning there is no reason to not go and enjoy yourself. There is something for everyone at The Bali Brasserie.

2| Douglas McMaster, owner and head chef has spent many years working in some of the UK’s and Europe’s top restaurants. You can expect to see a fair sized menu created with seasonal foraged ingredients that come together to give you a unique dinning experience. Some of the dishes so far have been Sea Buckthorn and Elderberry fool for dessert and potato steak, elephant garlic, alliums and herbs.

Memories of India

10| Lewes: 14 Station Road, BN7 2DA The Limetree Kitchen isn’t all about food, they have a unique “Gin Kitchen” which makes them stand out from the crowd. You can choose from their fantastic range of gins on offer and let them mix up a perfect blend of gin & tonic. If you fancy staying the night in Lewes, you can book a night in their elegant accommodation – “The Room”. If you are visiting Lewes for site seeing, or a special occasion getaway, The Room would be the perfect place to stay for a luxurious night after a delicious meal in the Limetree Kitchen restaurant. The menu consists of tapas style small plates which give diners the opportunity to try more on the menu. This is an informal way of eating out and you can either share a few dishes with friends or enjoy them on your own. Their simple menu is split into sections which include Vegetarian, Fish, Meat, Nibbles and Desserts.

Silo

Curry Leaf Cafe

3| The original Curry Leaf Cafe is located in the heart of Brighton's bustling Lanes, just a couple of minutes' walk from the beach.

This colourful, laid-back 75-seat dining space – decked out with exposed brick walls, wooden tables and vintage Indian design touches – operates as a cafe-cum-lunch spot during the day, offering a range of coffees, teas, snacks and traditional South Indian street food, as well as more substantial meals such as thali platters, dosas and Masala-battered fish 'n chips. In the evenings diners can experience the cafe’s small but diverse dinner menu of tandoor-grilled meats, street food dishes and expertly spiced curries, accompanied by Brighton's best range of craft beers and spiced cocktails.

Eatalio

64 64

4| Eatalio is a recently new addition to Brighton’s food scene, and is located on Queens Road, abouta 5 min walk from the station near Brighton’s clock tower. Inspired by the simple, yet healthy food served from the street carts in Italy, Eatalio provides affordable, grab and go food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A great venue to pop into and dogs are most welcome. No servicesfor dogs, they just allow them in the venue.

Riddle & Finns

6| Another favourite in the restaurant scene, Riddle & Finns offer wonderful seafood platter as well as shellfish too, they do also cater for gluten free. Reservations are not Necessary unexpectedly, however it is recommended on the weekends as it can be very busy. Riddle & Finns also own a second venue on the seafront, both perfect for a special occasion.

7| Offering traditional Indian food in a variety of flavours from all over the continent. If you’re gluten intolerant then you will be pleased to know that gluten is very rare in all Indian food due to the lack of wheat flour.

On Tuesdays, you can enjoy a five-course buffet menu for £12.95

Wolfies of Hove

8| Family run business that pride themselves in serving the finest, sustainable fish alongside locally sourced potatoes. Having served the Brighton & Hove area for over 25 years we know that quality is of the utmost importance, with carefully selected suppliers so that they can provide you good quality, fresh ingredients. Boosting The best fish in Brighton & Hove. The fish is the freshest sustainable fish available in Brighton & Hove, and our handmade pies using all local ingredients. They challenge anyone to serve up tastier, fresher & more wholesome fish.

The Urchin Pub in Hove

11| One of Brighton’s newest offerings, the Urchin craft beer and shellfish pub is a wholly unique concept. Entirely dedicated to shellfish, matched with a range of over 100 craft beers The Urchin is something Brighton and Hove has never seen before. Seats 30 covers in the restaurant, the menu predominantly features prawns, lobster, crab and scallops.

ABSOLUTE

Terre a terre

9| Terre a Terre is an iconic, award winning restaurant where being vegetarian is about more than just not eating meat. You can expect a variety of flavours and foods to try when you arrive. Much more interesting than the standard stuffed mushroom.

Pelham House

12| Lewes: St Andrews Lane, BN7 1UW Pelham House Lewes is a beautiful 16th century town house hotel in the heart of Lewes and one of East Sussex’s hidden gems, just 10 minutes from Brighton. Right off the High Street you will find the historic building, set in an extensive secret garden, Pelham House is perfect for dining alfresco or an afternoon tea. The house & garden has been exquisitely restored to create a stylish venue, combining elegance and history. The head chef has developed a varied set of menus for their gallery, panelled room, garden room and dining outside on the terrace. The restaurant at Pelham House focuses on simple and delicious food, using good quality seasonal and locally sourced produce from Lewes and the county of Sussex.

They regularly offer private dining to guests for special occasions and events.

Senor Buddha

13| Senor Buddha is a contemporary restaurant located in the up and coming area of London Road in the quirky coastal town of Brighton. Since its opening in 2015 it quickly became a popular destination for food-loving locals as well as tourists. The restaurant has won several awards and was featured in the dining out section of the Financial Times.

1

10

2

11

3

12

Chambers Bistro 14| Shoreham-by-Sea: Old Town Hall, High Street, BN43 5DD Chambers Bistro Shoreham is an independent family-run British bistro, serving all the popular classics with an emphasis on locally sourced produce in an elegant and centrally positioned venue. Located just 15 minutes West of Brighton & Hove along the seafront, or 5 minutes off the A27, this well-known restaurant boasts the splendour of a Grade II listed neo classical building with super stylish interiors. Features include stripped wooden floors and cream leather chairs, set among two softly lit dining areas. Think boutique and chic, romantic and intimate. Chambers Bistro is as sophisticated with its appearance as the food they serve.

Sylvan Oak

4

13

5

14

6

15

7

15| Findon: BN14 0TE The Sussex restaurant is situated 10 minutes north of the town of Worthing in the sleepy village of Findon. The Sylvan Oak prides itself on an evolving food culture, where their head chef and proprietor Sinan Kalan presents flavoured food with amazing visual presentation. The Sylvan Oak could be perfect for that intimate occasion on the sun terrace, or can be privately hire for a party or celebration. Open most days apart from Mondays, and open for lunch and dinners. The Cuisine described by the owner as “British Fusion” which I suppose is close to dine dining and modern European.

Essentially the food is professionally prepared and influences stem far and wide giving you quite a varied menu.

The Fountain Inn, Ashurst

16| Beautiful olde worlde inn in the sleepy village of Ashurst. A free house and ‘Cask Marque’ accredited, the Fountain has plenty of local ales on offer as well as the more recognised international beers and lagers.

Complete with wonky floorboards, inglenook fireplaces and the heart warming smell of homemade cooking wafting in from the kitchen, you will not want to go home.

16

Block.

8

17| Block. is a bar with a great wine list, bringing you lots of new young wineries / vineyards, the people who, in wine that are pushing the envelope a bit. The wine is supported with great craft on draft and Brighton's first and currently only charcoal and wood burning oven, working with only the best produce from local farms, fisherman and suppliers they offer you a local meat and fish menu with a basque influence coming through, the garden at block has also recently been improved even after being voted Brighton's best garden for the last two years.

So if you want gourmet restaurant quality food, but enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of a bar. BLOCK is the place for you.

17

9

ABSOLUTE

65

BARS & B BEATS The Crown and Anchor

Legends

Fortune of War

1|Shoreham-by-Sea: 33 High Street, West Sussex BN43 5DD Named after the town’s past with its port famed for smuggling, and centrally located on Shoreham’s high street, the Crown and Anchor is a must visit and very popular with locals and visitors alike. From the high street it looks like a regular run of the mill pub, but it hides a gorgeous restaurant with big glass windows and a patio area with outside seating which backs onto the river Adur. Perfect for alfresco dining and drinking on warm evenings, with spectacular views of the South Downs and the river itself.

5| Legends is a gay bar and hotel located on Marine Parade just a minute away from Palace Pier. It has a fantastic selection of rooms with stunning sea views. The venue itself is very spacious and has a large bar upstairs with outside terrace and huge dance floor downstairs. There is always plenty going on with drag acts during the week and great music played by a diverse r ange of DJs at the weekends.

9| This lovely pub has been open since 1882, making it the oldest pub on the seafront. It is a good meeting place if you are going clubbing on the seafront. There are DJs playing at the weekends and it always has a friendly atmosphere and is never too crowded. The décor has a maritime theme and the pub provides beautiful views over the seafront.

It has an outside seating area and a buzzy atmosphere during the summer months.

6| If you are looking for a good, old fashioned, comfy pub with a great atmosphere then this is the place for you. The Lion and Lobster is very popular with the locals and has become a bit of a Brighton institution. It is a good venue to start your night before going out on the town. The pub is spread over three floors with a main bar downstairs complete with cosy real fires in winter. The second floor has a small bar within a beautiful dining room and the third floor is the outside smoker’s area complete with mini bar and outside heaters. The Sunday roasts are very popular but make sure you get there early.

10| Hastings: 71 George Street, Old Town, East Sussex TN34 3EE Owned by the same people as the famous Dragon Bar in Shoreditch and centrally located in the Old Town in Hastings, just a stone’s throw away from the beach.

This is a fantastic bar and eatery where during the day you can sample a diverse and delicious sounding menu made up of fresh local produce, and relax and watch the hustle and bustle of the old town.

Beautifully decorated with local artwork with a lively and welcoming ambience.

A vast selection of drinks with premium spirits, and live DJ’s at the weekend.

Attracts an eclectic crowd of varying ages.

Idlewild

2| Haywards Heath: 65 The Broadway, West Sussex, West Sussex, RH16 3AS Centrally located in Haywards heath, this little Gem of a bar boasts cool funky décor, friendly expert mixologists with a great selection of cocktails and a wonderfully diverse and well thought food menu which caters for everyone.

Pictures of sexy celebs adorn the walls of this cool atmospheric venue, which also boasts a great outdoor seated terrace area. Playing an excellent selection of music all day everyday with regular and guest DJ’s Friday and Saturday nights. A lot of thought has gone into this place and it shows.

32 Duke Street

3| Those with a party penchant wont be hard pushed to get your late night fix at this naughty, Brighton number. While a cracking destination for eating out in the day, get stuck into the confines of the quirky Brighton bar as the lights go down and the sound-system goes up for a fun loving, seaside crowd.

My Hotel

4| If you’re after a Sex and the City venue then look no further. My Hotel is a beautifully crafted bar with curved walls, gilding pewter surfaces and low lighting, reflecting a warm and spacious cocoon. As part of the My Hotel franchise, the bar is open to non-guests to enjoy some beautifully made cocktails, a sophisticated atmosphere and an altogether glamorous night out.

The bar staff are knowledgeable and helpful.

This is a good place for special occasions.

Everyone gets super dressed up so if you are looking to get your glad rags on and feel special this could be the place for you.

66

Lion & Lobster

The Dead Parrot

7| Horsham: 21 Piries Place, RH12 1EH, West Sussex A cocktail bar with a difference! Opened by a group of bartenders in 2014 who are obviously passionate about their craft. The Dead Parrot boasts a fantastic menu of unique and eccentric cocktail as well as some classics, well as a fine selection of beers and delicious wines. Split over two floors with cool and quirky décor featuring some interesting taxidermy and a giant chessboard on the ceiling! An unashamedly hipster joint serving cocktails in all manner of vessels from beer cans with sombrero hats, to metal tankards and even the odd dainty glass. Lots of fun!

Hotel Du Vin

8| A lovely start to your evening in a classy venue. The bar is part of the Hotel Du Vin chain and is open to non-guests to come in and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere.

It is a little on the pricey side but if it is sophistication you are after then look no further. The bar has an extensive list of wines and a wide selection of whiskies, rums and countless spirits. As well as relaxing in the main bar you can also enjoy a game of billiards located on the balcony above.

ABSOLUTE

The Dragon Bar

The Tempest Inn

11| With scenic views from the beer garden at this washed up bar along the beach front, enjoy the fresh sea air and the beautiful rolling waves from your dainty picnic bench. If you can drag yourself away from this alfresco seating, you’ll be just as impressed by the coastal coves set into the walls. Enjoy a frothy pint and a tempting tipple in your very own seafront cave at this quirky little cavern.

MEAT liquor

12| Hailing from the success of their London counterpart, Brighton’s MEATLiquour is a wonderment of carnivore feasts and locally inspired artwork. Based around the carnival days of Brighton gone by, doused in neons and brimming with urban regalia, MEATLiquour is a unique restaurant bar in Brighton where the burgers come hearty and the cocktails come laced in awesome.

1

10

2

11

La Havana 13| Chichester: 3 Little London, PO19 1PH A deep subterranean live music venue which is famed for its Jazz nights, though Whatever your particular taste in music, you will always find there to be a night to suit you here at La Havana. A fun and lively venue which is well thought out in design, you can easily find a spot to sit and chat away from the music whilst still enjoying it, or be right in the action. All in a vaulted basement for real atmosphere. Reasonably priced drinks to boot with beer at £3.00 a bottle.

The Loft Lounge and Bar

3

12

4

13

5

14

6

15

14| Eastbourne: 14 Station Street, East Sussex, BN21 4RG An elegant chic and sophisticated late night lounge and bar, spread over two floors, and carefully designed to create a unique and sumptuous atmosphere. The downstairs bar boasts an impressive circular bar backed onto a dazzling glass wall, and a skylight which floods the venue with natural light. Upstairs is a bit cosier and intimate, with various sized booths and a premium drinks bar. A fine selection of food and drinks on offer here, with delicious sounding cocktails and expert mixologists more than happy to make off-menu drinks. With live music every Friday and drinks offers throughout the week it’s easy to see why this is one of Eastbourne’s top rated nightspots.

Gin Tub

15| The exciting tastes of international gins in a superb interior of our newly opened Gin Tub Cocktail bar. Finally somewhere to drink after all the great Hove restaurants. With well over 80 gins – bespoke cocktails – craft beers and ales. We have also created flight boards to try new spirits. Bespoke Cocktails, craft beers, IPA’s and all the normal beers and spirits too.

Under The Tub Welcome to the Rum Cage, where the spirits and specifically the rum never dry out. With a bar selection of some of the best rums, oh and of course some of our favourite gins.

Cocktail Shack 7

16| A unique and innovative bar hidden within the tall walls of Regency Square. They pride themselves on drinks as creative and bespoke as the Artist Residence itself, offering playful service and a passion for the product. We would urge everyone to check them out at The Shack for a taste of something new.

16

The Rocking Horse 8

17| Worthing: 3 The Broadway, Brighton Road, BN11 3EG Quirky pub serving cocktails and a limited beer and wine selection. Comfortable place for a chat with a rocking horse theme to the décor and a relaxed vibe. The best place in Worthing where you can go and experience trained mixologists who understand cocktails and flavours make your drinks! Reasonable prices for the quality of drinks too! A clean, light and airy venue with friendly staff to boot. They also offer a cocktail masterclass (daily) where for just £19.50 you can learn to make (and drink) three classic cocktails with a glass of prosecco included.

17

9

ABSOLUTE

67

68

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

69

Perfect coffee plus much more in the heart of North Laine

COFFEE

&

CAKE

Black Mocha Espresso, Hot chocolate, loose leaf tea. Traditional baked gluten free cake, raw vegan cakes, homemade soups, sandwiches. Quality chocolate bars, coffee beans, coffee/tea wares.

Welcome to Black Mocha in North Laine.

“It’s a great venue for a ‘cake date’. A relaxed atmosphere, good music and we have food and drinks to suit everyone’s taste.”

S

et up by Heather and Paul Smith, Black Mocha was born from a love of quality coffee and chocolate. With a focus on single origin we wanted to capture the true flavour of both beverages by using ethically sourced, quality coffee beans and chocolate. How did we create the Black Mocha? It all began with THE hot chocolate. We created a rich water based recipe with 70% Madagascan chocolate to really explore the true flavour of this single origin chocolate. It was a ‘no brainer’ to add a double shot of espresso to it to create a mocha, but as it’s not a traditional mocha with milk or cream, we needed a new name for it so the ‘Black Mocha’ story began. A unique drink that represents our ethos of respecting simple ingredients, enhancing their natural flavour and sharing a passion for quality food and drink.

70

ABSOLUTE

Who designed your interior?

We designed the interior ourselves. With a modest budget, we wanted functionality with a minimal 60’s feel. Inspired by midcentury danish furniture from Frem Rojle and Eames, this is a classic style people return to and are comfortable with. As with our inclusive food and drink offer, we wanted to ensure the style appealed to a wide audience and we have had great feedback from our customers in doing so.

Ok to the coffee. What kind of beans are you using?

We work very closely with ‘Cast Iron Coffee Roasters’ based in West Sussex in carefully selecting single origin beans for espresso and pour over. For our V60 brew, we usually select fruitier beans and rotate these every two weeks. We rotate our single origin espresso every 3 months whilst maintaining a taste profile of dark fruits, chocolate and caramel notes from the beans we choose.

This compliments the 70% hot chocolate to create a consistent, balanced taste profile for the signature ‘Black Mocha’.

Do you offer an app service?

We do not offer an app service currently, however our staff are very efficient and provide exceptional customer service so you will never be waiting too long for your coffee.

Do you tweak the grind of the beans to get balanced perfection?

To create the perfect cup of coffee, we work to a carefully calculated recipe of weight, coffee grind and water ratio to enhance and highlight the flavour profile of the beans.

The difference in room temperature and humidity can expand or contract the bean size so our baristas are trained to adjust the grind settings to ensure we deliver a consistent espresso.

Tell me about the various drinks on your menu?

We offer an espresso based coffee menu and V60 filter coffee. On our hot chocolate menu there are a choice of 70% dark, 40% milk and 34% white single origin hot chocolates and we also have a large range of carefully selected speciality loose leaf teas.

We currently have some seasonal specials, try our deconstructed mocha - a flight of espresso, dark 70% hot chocolate and cream, it’s a great way to enjoy the individual flavour notes of the coffee and chocolate unmasked. For a sweeter tooth, we have ‘The Works’ which is a ½ pint of colombian milk chocolate, cream, locally made marshmallow and honeycomb.

What’s on the food/cake menu?

Our food menu; we have just launched our brunch menu, meat, vegetarian and vegan plates- quality ingredients, beautiful, simple dishes and very flavourful served from 9am

- 3pm daily. Homemade soup, sandwiches and wraps also available from the counter to have in or takeaway.

We make our cakes in house and have a wide selection of gluten free bakes as well as homemade raw vegan cakes that are specifically gluten free, soy free, dairy free, vegan and refined sugar free. Our best seller is our raw cacao avocado tart made from wholefood ingredients; nuts, dates, avocado, raw cacao and sweetened with coconut nectar. It’s amazing the amount of people shocked at how delicious a healthier cake can be!

Do you consider your cafe to be a good first date rendevouz?

Yes - it’s a great venue for a ‘cake date’. A relaxed atmosphere, good music and we have food and drinks to suit everyone’s taste. Plus chocolate is a great start to any date!

Do you have any future plans you would like to share with us?

We have had such a great year we want to continue improving our current offer and developing our brunch menu to maintain this success. We are currently working on events ideas for some Pop up restaurant evenings and are looking forward to increasing our retail chocolate and coffee wares for the Christmas season.

103 Gloucester Road, Brighton @blackmochaBN1

ABSOLUTE

71

BOK Shop

Chicken with a twist

T

he humble chicken burger (often an afterthought on a burger restaurant menu and the second class citizen to its meaty counterpart) is well and truly brought to the forefront of Brighton’s now well established independent fried-chicken focussed eatery. Having only heard good things, and being a well-documented gourmet burger enthusiast, I was more than excited to be invited to try them out.

In a prime location just off the seafront on Brighton’s bustling East Street, The Bok Shop exudes a relaxed and welcoming vibe.

This is a cool, light and airy establishment, decorated minimisticly with black and white brick walls, naked LED bulbs hanging from the ceiling, and littered with picnic benches, as well as some outdoor seating. We chose our spot next to the huge bay windows, perfect for people watching and took in our surroundings. We were salivating over the quite wonderful smells emanating from the kitchen window, while the chef, in full view of the diners, was busily going about his craft.

Taking a quick detour downstairs to use the bathroom, I came across the downstairs dining area, which in contrast to the main room had more of a rustic feel. There are bare wood walls and ceiling, decorated with fairy lights and funky artwork, with an impressive, yet slightly out of place library of classic VHS

horror films on display. I made a mental note to ask about that, but then forgot!

Upon taking our seat again, Hannah, our incredibly friendly and helpful waitress was more than happy to go through the menu, bringing our attention to the lunchtime deal (£9.50 for any burger, side and soft drink), and offering to answer any questions we may have. The menu is fairly straightforward however it features a selection of classic and bespoke imaginative chicken burgers, which could all be made vegetarian or vegan with spice coated faux chicken. Chicken pieces and wings with various sauces, including vegan nuggets, and a comprehensive list of classic tempting sides and homemade dips all combine to make this one delicious menu..

The comprehensive drinks menu displayed a great selection of craft beers, Bok Shop own red/white/rose wine, fizz, spirits and soft drinks, as well as crooked alcoholic soda.

In the interest of journalism I massively over-ordered so I could sample as much of the menu as possible. I was immediately drawn to “The Bossman” burger, described as a “beast” on the menu, with Bok barbecue sauce, lettuce cucumber, thigh fillet, cheese, hash brown and topped with even more barbeque sauce. I coupled it with some fried pickles, and rounded off my order with six spicy “Bokadoosh Wings.” My wife and dining

“

The Bok Shop exudes a relaxed and welcoming vibe. This is a cool, light and airy establishment."

72

ABSOLUTE

companion Sally shook her head and sighed at my obvious greed, and prudently ordered two chicken pieces, with homemade mash and chicken gravy.

Despite it being a particularly busy lunchtime, it did not take long for our food to arrive. Assuming the wings were to share, they were placed in the middle of the table.

When I explained they were all for me Hannah wished me luck, and then brought out the rest. My burger was simply huge and I was relieved I had not opted to “double up” on the thigh fillet, as I struggled to take the first bite with sauce and bits of hash brown dripping down my chin! I am happy to say the Bossman Burger is as delicious as it is big. The thigh fillet is so juicy, moist and flavoursome, with the twangy homemade barbecue sauce really standing out and the crunchy hash brown and oozing cheese adding an incomparable dose of pure satisfaction in every bite.

The Bokodoosh wings were equally as juicy and coated in a spicy rich crunchy batter which had a lovely kick. They come drizzled in hot Korean Gochujang sauce to give them an extra punch, though by no means overpowering the delicious taste of the chicken.

The fried pickles were some of the best I have had; juicy fat twangy sticks with a signature crispy, buttery batter – perfect

ABSOLUTE

for dipping in any one of the Bok Shop homemade dips. I refrained from adding the sauce however, concluding none was needed to enjoy these magnificent creations, though occasionally mopping up some leftover from the wings.

My wife reluctantly allowed me to sample some of her food too! I was straight in there.

Tearing off some of her perfectly cooked tender chicken breast and dunking it in the gloriously creamy mash and delightful gravy.

Oh wow, this is what fried-chicken dreams are made of. Tasting the Bok Shop batter in all its glory, without the salads buns and sauces was just heavenly and I could not resist going in again to suck the bones dry the moment Sally had finished eating.

As we washed it all down with a couple of crooked alco-sodas I stared at the mound of bones hoping to find one last morsel to enjoy, even though my hunger was more than satisfied. In fact I have to admit I felt ever so slightly uncomfortably full, and loving it! The Bok shop certainly lived up to the hype and I will be dragging my poor wife back soon to witness me massively over-order and devour more delicious succulent chicken very soon. www.thebokshop.com/

73

74

ABSOLUTE

ROUTEMASTER BRINGS FINE DINING ON WHEELS TO BRIGHTON AND HOVE Travel in style on board an iconic Routemaster RML 2333 which has been lovingly restored and refitted to carry up to 42 guests seated at tables for 2 or 4.

Opt for a traditional afternoon tea or if you fancy a tipple why not treat yourself and your friends to a gin, prosecco or champagne.

Also available for private hire www.brightonregencyroutemaster.co.uk/ Insta - @brightonregencyroutemaster Twitter - @btnroutemaster

ABSOLUTE

Dough Lover ***** A unique diner style café in Brighton’s North Laine.

I

learnt something new on my recent visit to Dough Lover; a unique diner style café in Brighton’s North Laine. Speaking with visionary owner Ronke Arogundade, she told me the word “restaurant” originates from the French verb “restaurer” and was first used in the 16th century to describe food that restores your health! Ronke passionately believes in these words, and not only aims to provide a delicious pleasurable dining experience, but also to make sure anyone who visits leaves feeling better than they did when they entered. As well as this, Dough Lover is inclusive to anyone, whether you are vegan, vegetarian, or suffer from food intolerances.

I cannot claim to be any of these, (although I have been avoiding cow’s milk of late, due to my wife constantly telling me how cruel the dairy industry is). What I can claim however, is that I do appreciate a tasty hearty and nutritious meal, and the food here is fantastic.

We definitely felt happy and fulfilled when we left. Here’s how our visit went.

As Dough Lover specialises in brunch with speciality in-house baked goods, we arrived early on a Wednesday afternoon, absolutely ravenous, having skipped breakfast in favour of some of the incredible sounding dishes from the menu we had loaded up on my phone en route. We had already pretty much decided on what we were going to have, and the thought of the home made corned beef hash, guacamole and egg was making my belly rumble in anticipation. Warmly greeted by a host of incredibly welcoming waiting staff, we were invited to choose a table and given a menu each. What we hadn’t banked on, was

76

there are all sorts of daily specials and in our haste and hunger we had not noticed a whole host of delicious sounding dishes. Ignoring our bellies we took our time to make our mind up.

Our attentive waiter arrived with a jug of filtered water and asked if we would like a drink. The drinks menu consists of some exotic sounding sodas made in house with their own centrifuge machine, from filtered water, containing one tenth of the sugar content found in conventional sodas. A host of hot drinks are offered including teas sourced exclusively from small farms from around the globe, coffee which the waiter earnestly claimed is the best in Brighton, with carefully sourced beans around from some of the best estates and cooperatives around the world, and a fine selection of hot cordials, chocolates, and lattes all with the non-dairy options including their own Dough Lover nut-milk and non-dairy cream. The select wine list also looked tempting, however we decided to stick to Soda as we hadn’t yet eaten, with my dining companion selecting hibiscus cherry and mint, and myself choosing Purple Berry and fresh juniper. Both were as refreshing and flavoursome as they sound, and surprisingly sweet considering the lack of sugar.

When it came to choosing our mains, I had to ask for a recommendation from the waiter, as everything sounded so delicious.

The incredibly well thought out menu consists of a huge range of options, all containing only the finest freshest organic ingredients, and with a vast amount of dishes to suit literally any dietary choices or intolerances which all

ABSOLUTE

sound equally as tempting. The menu simply has to be seen to be believed and Ronke’s passion for engineering and creating delicious and nourishing food really shines throughout. On recommendation I opted for one of their most popular dishes from their organic, free range and locally sourced “Eggs Dough Lover” section of the menu. I opted for Trealy Farm boudin noir, crispy bacon, kimchi, garlic chives and angel hair chilli and my companion plumped for one of their unfolded “House Omelettes,” flaked kippers, crème fresh, capers, brown butter, lemon and black pepper.

Enjoying our Soda’s and waiting in anticipation for our food to arrive, we distracted our now loudly grumbling stomachs by taking in our surroundings. It is immediately apparent that just as much thought, care and attention has gone into the décor as the menu. There is an underlying diner feel to the place but it is so much more warm and inviting than what you might expect. Teal diner style comfortable seating circles the room, with pristine marble tables and a contemporary chandelier casting a glow over the walls, which are a delicate mix of creams, browns and beiges with ornate patterns and some fantastic photography

by Gerald Jenkins, an artist who Ronke admires. The attention to detail in the diner style is impressively apparent, down to even the piano key plaques under each piece.

Looking up we realised we were sitting right next to a wall completely dedicated to local singer and songwriter Nick Cave, another or Ronke’s favourite artists!

It did not seem long before our food arrived and I was immediately struck at just at the simply beautiful presentation. Both plates of food were carefully crafted with enticing texture and colour that immediately reminded our stomachs of the need for nourishment.

It seemed a shame to ruin it by tucking in, but tuck in we did, and greedily so, both agreeing that our meals were exceptional.

My Eggs Dough Lover was such an exciting mix of flavours and textures. The pure earthy meaty flavour of creamy boudin noir (black pudding) and exceptional quality and perfectly crisp fried bacon entwined with the tangy kimchi, peppery rocket was a winner! With a base of what was quite obviously the freshest organic eggs, it was set off with a lovely bite from the chilli flakes. Each mouthful brought different exciting tastes and I could honestly go back and eat this time and time again and not get bored! From the noises coming from across the table I could tell that my dining companion was equally enamoured with his omelette. I sneaked a forkful of wonderfully creamy, perfectly cooked egg with a generous dollop of crème fraiche and flaky kipper and gave my companion a nod in agreement. This dish was obviously lovingly prepared and perfectly seasoned with the capers lemon and black pepper subtly bringing out the separate flavours, creating a remarkable and flawless dish which I am certain could win over the staunchest hater of this potently flavoured fish! Both plates came with Dough Lover home baked gluten free bread for mopping up, which tasted exquisite in itself, with a crunchy crust and doughy centre it was satisfying to eat too.

We had gone from being starving to completely stuffed, but decided we had just enough room to share a Dough Lover no added sugar Valhrona chocolate cake with our coffees. My wife will be pleased to know when she reads this that I opted for whipped coconut cream as an alternative to whipped dairy cream with the cake, and a latte made with Dough Lover signature nut milk, which was recommended to me by the waitress, assuring me the mix of cashew and tiger nuts actually tastes great with their house blend.

The waitress was not wrong. I thoroughly enjoyed my nut-milk latte and the cake was a perfect mix of rich and sweet. My companion, a coffee purest, took his coffee black, and said it was one of the best he had ever tasted.

We thoroughly recommend Dough Lover to absolutely everyone. You will feel completely at home here, no matter what your dietary requirement or food choice is, they happily cater for all. There is a huge choice for everyone to enjoy, and the quality, thought and skill going into each dish will amaze you. The menu is often tweaked and is seasonal, so we will definitely be back for more healthy, nourishing and delicious meals.

“

There is a huge choice for everyone to enjoy, and the quality, thought and skill going into each dish will amaze you."

Tony Shattell 99 Trafalgar St, Brighton BN1 4ER https://www.doughlover.com/

ABSOLUTE

77

THE

Fountain Inn ASHURST

“

This is possibly the most elegant, cosy, warm and welcoming country pub we have ever visited, with some of the most delicious locally sourced home cooked cuisine to boot."

W

hen it comes to dining out, my wife and I rarely venture out of Brighton and Hove, as the city’s dynamic foodie scene has so much to offer in terms of quality and variation. Both coming from rural roots, we have had our fair share of traditional countrystyle pubs. Our dining habits may have to change however, as our recent rare adventure into the countryside brought us to the Fountain Inn in Ashurst, just 30 minutes outside of Brighton. This is possibly the most elegant, cosy, warm and welcoming country pub we have ever visited, with some of the most delicious locally sourced home cooked cuisine to boot.

Arriving on a lovely warm summers evening, we were immediately impressed by the beauty and grandeur of this 16th Century grade 2 listed building and its beautiful tranquil waterside garden. As we got out of the car and took a deep breath of the country air, we could see drinkers and diners scattered around the garden chatting whilst enjoying the quite serene atmosphere that sucks you in and relaxes you as soon as you arrive. Situated in the picturesque village of Ashurst , the Fountain Inn exudes a certain character and charm that is both majestic and inviting at the same time.

Entering the Inn instantly transports you back in time, ducking down to avoid bumping my head on the low ceiling and exposed timbers and making our way along the narrow corridor to the quaint bar area where locals were perched conversing over a fine selection of cask ales.

Uneven flagstone floors and fireplaces are decorated with all manner of memorabilia, which you could spend hours admiring. I can imagine coming in to the warmth of a roaring fire on a cold winter’s evening and never wanting to leave.

Warmly greeted by the manager Rachael, we were offered the option of dining inside and out. Knowing my wife is a bit susceptible to the cold when the sun goes down, we opted to dine in one of the charming dining rooms adjacent to the bar.

After giving us some space to settle in and peruse the

78

drinks menu, Rachael reappeared and took our order. Being the designated driver I opted to try a cask APA which Rachael said was popular with the local drinkers. I planned to nurse my pint for the duration of the meal as I could only have one, but the delicious nectar seemed to evaporate as I was choosing my main. I perused the select wine list, which is easy to navigate as the wines are divided into sub-headings based on the palate so even the most novice wine drinker can pick out one to suit their taste. My wife played it safe anyway and went for the house red, Carignan Vin de France, which did not disappoint. A full bodied little number bursting with fruity flavours, she opted for just a glass at first, but soon after ordered a carafe. I was more than a little jealous and made a mental note to get my wife some driving lessons for her birthday.

At first glance the menu looks like what you would expect from such an establishment; a selection bar nibbles and sharer boards, small and large plates, sides, and a selection of deserts. Delve deeper and you can tell a lot of care and attention has gone into selecting the menu, with a mix of classic hearty pub favourites such as chicken and ham shortcrust pie, and Ribeye steak with pepper sauce, as well as some more exotic dishes such as chickpea tagine, tabbouleh and flat bread, and gin-cured sea trout. Where possible the locally sourced ingredients are listed beneath each dish. We opted to share a charcuterie board to nibble on to begin with, followed by the Gin Cured Sea Trout and Chicken Liver Parfait as a starters. For main my wife plumped for Sea Trout, Cod and Cray Fish Cakes with tomato and red onion salad and lemon mayonnaise, whereas I could not resist the Pan Fried Pigeon Breast with herb roasted potatoes, toasted hazelnuts and balsamic reduction from the specials board.

Sensing we were genuinely impressed with what we had seen so far, Rachael suggested we take a look around while the chef prepared the Charcuterie. We exited the back door and found an impressive selection of vintage cars parked in the rear carpark, which Rachel later explained was one of the local car clubs which they run monthly throughout the year. Circling the building and crossing the duck pond, we

ABSOLUTE

stumbled across the barn, which we noticed on arrival as it is simply huge and been converted into a function room.

Peering in, it looked even more impressive on the inside. Huge beams crossed the ceiling, giant elongated tables, the piano and enormous fireplace seemed to take up very little space in this grandiose yet cosy room. It even had a skittle ally which they have big plans for in the near future. Watch this space for updates.

We returned to the table just in time for our charcuterie to arrive and greedily tucked in to some of the most flavoursome freshest cured meats we have ever experienced.

The hot smoked chorizo has a lovely bite to it but is not too overpowering The Coppa ham and Bresaola were a delight and we could have quite happily had an entire plate of the fennel salami! All was complimented with pickles, grilled artichoke, sun-blushed tomatoes, homemade hummus and sticks of light crispy toasted olive bread. Rachael explained the meats were all locally sourced from Calcott farm, which would explain the amazing fresh full flavours of the meats. A great start!

The small plates were next to arrive. My chicken liver parfait was simply incredible. It was so light and fluffy it could have floated off the table and yet creamy and flavoursome to boot. The parfait was beautifully paired with onion marmalade which you might think would overpower, but it actually complimented it and made this a well-balanced dish that left me wanting more. My wife’s Sea trout was also a delight – a dish so pretty it was almost a shame to tuck in! Dainty Trout florets intertwined with laces of pickles cucumber and drizzled with a dill emulsion. I sneaked a forkful as my wife was admiring it and it was an enchanting blend of flavours, with the subtle gin notes adding a notunpleasant sharpness to the mix. Impressed so far, we hoped the mains would live up to expectations!

Thankfully the main event was equally as impressive. My wife has an affinity towards fishcakes and tends to order them regularly if they are on the menu, and she happily explained they were some of the best she had tasted. Not a lover of fishcakes myself I tried a bite, and had to agree with her.

They were perfectly light and fluffy with a thick crisp shell, and you could actually taste the fresh fish in each bite, with the crayfish particularly standing out, and the lemon mayo bringing out the flavour even more so. My pigeon dish simply oozed hearty earthy flavours and I could not get enough of it.

The tender meat, the crunchy char-grilled broccoli walnuts and balsamic reduction all working in harmony to produce down to earth yet bold flavours. I could not have been happier!

Rachael returned and could obviously sense we were enjoying ourselves immensely as she had a knowing smile on her face, and when she offered dessert she was met with a resounding yes. We picked from the select menu of classic homemade favourites, knowing we were in for a treat and we were not wrong. We shared a wonderfully gooey chocolate brownie with rich chocolate sauce and vanilla ice-cream, and a huge slab of classic creamy banoffee pie with salted caramel ice cream. A great way to finish a wonderful dining experience that will be etched in our memories until we return.

As we sipped our coffees, we reflected that we will definitely be making the worthwhile trip out of Brighton again. We chatted to Rachael who informed us that there is always something going on at the Fountain. Throughout the summer they have barbecues which are so popular they are planning on continuing them throughout the winter, combining dishes cooked on the barbecue with their now famous Sunday roasts! The Fountain Inn is well worth a visit no matter what the occasion.

Tony Shattell

01403-710219 Ashurst, BN44 3AP http://fountainashurst.pub

ABSOLUTE

79

KALOS IRTHATE WELCOME

Authentic Greek cooking made with Greek and locally sourced ingredients.

Come and try a true Greek experience.

13-14 Preston Street, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 2HN For Bookings Phone: 01273 933620 or Email: adelfiabrighton@gmail.com at adelfiabrighton f T 80

BEERS

BELGIAN FRIES

EVENTS

· Venue Hire · Parties & Events · Full Snack, Fries, Beer, and Drinks menus available. · Email info@befries.com for all enquiries.

Upcoming Events Best of Both

All Day

20th & 21st October Poutine with Blue Caribou Canteen

Snack Nights

5pm - 9pm

14th September

Open Everyday 12pm - 9pm

12th October

Vegan Nights

Find Us

5pm - 9pm

28th Semptember

46 West Street, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 2RA www.BeFries.com

26th October

info@befries.com

Brighton and Hove Community Kitchen *****

Brighton and Hove’s brand new Community Kitchen.

A non-profit cookery school which helps people to learn to cook, eat a healthy diet and waste less food.

I

have to admit, being a committed meateater, who’s cooking skills add up to being able to whip up a half decent spaghetti Bolognese from scratch, but being mainly heavily reliant on ready-made sauces and pre-packaged food, I was more than a little nervous attending a vegetarian and vegan cooking class at Brighton and Hove’s brand new Community Kitchen. A non-profit cookery school which helps people to learn to cook, eat a healthy diet and waste less food. The latest pioneering brainchild of the Brighton and Hove Food Partnership, a charity which has been engaging local residents from all walks of life, creating awareness of the joy of cooking and eating good quality food since 2013.

I was one of the first to arrive and instantly made to feel welcome and at ease

by Caroline, the course leader, Jess from the Brighton and Hove Food Partnership, and the rest of the team of volunteers. I sat at the huge dining table with a cup of tea while my fellow attendees arrived and surveyed my surroundings. Huge boxes of pre-measured fresh ingredients littered the windowsills of the impressive well-stocked kitchen which is laid out with worktops and gas-hobs circling a central fridge and preparation area, with giant ovens to the rear of the room and a separate washing up area. The volunteers were busy going about last minute preparations while Caroline warmly greeted each new arrival.

Everyone had arrived, and Caroline gathered all around the dining table, introduced the volunteers, Sam and Alice and went straight into an ice-breaker exercise where we were able to get to know each other

82

and the reason we were doing the course.

Most were new to vegetarianism or veganism and wanted to gain more cooking skills and recipe ideas, some were attending alone, some with partners, and it seemed like a lovely bunch of people from all sorts of backgrounds.

When it came to my turn to talk I admitted to being the only carnivore in the room, but was interested in cooking more plant-based meals at home. I felt no judgement for my dietary choices, and realised I wasn’t the only one who lacked culinary skills in the room. I now felt relaxed with my new found friends and eager to crack on.

Caroline gave us a short speech on the background behind the Brighton and Hove Food Partnership and Community kitchen, and explained how the next three hours would go.

We would each select two dishes to cook from a list of eleven or twelve delicious sounding recipes, some quick and easy, some longer and more complicated to prepare, then we would all sit down to eat and sample each other’s creations at the end. She recommended choosing one quick, and one complicated option each. I decided to throw myself in the deep end and cook two relatively complex dishes, an onion and gruyere tart, and broad bean burgers.

We each grabbed our boxes of ingredients and took root at one of the workstations. I began with the onion and gruyere tart as it sounded like it was the most complicated and would take longer to cook. Each “idiotproof” recipe is designed with step by step instructions so even the most novice buddingchefs can follow them. I happily went about

ABSOLUTE

my tasks, chopping and stewing onions and mashing my pastry ingredients together. Ten minutes in I experienced my first disaster!

I poured half a jug of water into the pastry mix instead of 2-3 tablespoons and ended up with a soupy gloopy mess in a bowl. Sensing my shear panic one of the volunteers came over and placated me. “There’s plenty of ingredients and you have plenty of time” she said and helped me to source some more. Ten minutes later I had to be rescued again as I had forgotten about the stewing onions and burnt them. I now know what it feels like to be a contestant on a cooking show like MasterChef or Ready Steady Cook.

Looking around at my companions, some who had chosen easier dishes moving on to prepare their second option, but all seeming to have it all under control. Panic set in and sweat was pouring off me!

The volunteers did a fantastic job of calming me down though, assuring me that a few slightly overcooked onions will add to the flavour of the tart. I regained composure, finished the tart and bunged it in the oven.

The Broad bean burgers went without a hitch. Although they didn’t turn out as pretty as the batch made by one of my classmates. Time constraints I had imposed on myself meant I had to rush to finish them, so instead of twelve neat little patties, I presented six roughly burger-shaped quarter pounders. No one seemed to notice when we sat down to eat, and I have to say, mine were far superior in terms of flavour.

It’s all about the seasoning!

As we sat down to eat and to enjoy the

fruits of our labour I wondered where the last three hours had gone! They had literally seemed to fly by and I was eager to sample some of my companion’s efforts, as well as receive feedback on my own. By this time some of the delegates had found out that I usually write restaurant reviews for Absolute Magazine, so my plate was piled high with everyone wanting to see what I thought of their dishes. I truly enjoyed every one of them, and it was lovely to sit, eat, chat, and relax at the end of it all with a glass or two of wine. There was far too much food for us to finish that evening, but we were all given doggy bags at the end of the night and encouraged to take it all home. Nothing is wasted here.

I had a fantastic time at the Community Kitchen. I made new friends and there was lots of fun and laughter in the process.

Caroline and her team of volunteers were lovely and so encouraging. It was obvious they all had a real passion for cooking and I felt supported every step of the way. I have even cooked some of the other (simpler) dishes at home since, as all the recipes are handed out at the end of the night. I now make a mean French bean salad and vegan hot and sour soup!

There are a wide range of cookery courses coming up, with workshops for all. From beginners to experienced cooks, and anyone can get involved, regardless of finance, confidence or ability. I wholeheartedly encourage you to have a look at the website (http://bhfood.org.uk/cookery-school) and book yourself on to one now!

ABSOLUTE

83

Boho Gelato *****

Boho Gelato have been one of Brighton’s go-to foodie destinations since they opened their flagship institution in Pool Valley nine years ago, and have since opened a parlour on Ship Street, as well as more recently expanding to open stores in Worthing, Weymouth, and Swanage.

T

here are some occasions when I get a call asking me to visit somewhere and I literally feel like I have the best job in the world. This was one of those occasions.

I was lying on the beach sweltering in the sun on a particularly roasting day (during what has been the hottest summer we have experienced since I moved to Brighton sixteen years ago) when I received the call asking if I would like to visit my absolute favourite Ice Cream parlour, Boho Gelato. Of course I jumped at the chance and literally couldn’t wait to try some exciting flavours from their ever changing repertoire of seductive offerings.

For anyone who has not heard of them, Boho Gelato have been one of Brighton’s goto foodie destinations since they opened their flagship institution in Pool Valley nine years ago, and have since opened a parlour on Ship Street, as well as more recently expanding to open stores in Worthing, Weymouth, and Swanage. This is the brainchild of founder Seb Cole, a former mixologist, who after spending some time in Italy eating a lot of ice cream, decided to utilise the skills he honed through creating intricate flavours in drinks.

He would use these skills to make great tasting Gelato, going back to Italy to study the art before returning to Brighton to open up shop.

My wife Sally commented that I was like “a kid in a sweet shop” when I turned up at Boho Gelato later that day. We were greeted by store manager Lottie who was incredibly welcoming and keen to tell us all about themselves. Luckily Sally took detailed notes

84

for this article, as I was having the time of my life, sampling as many of the twenty four flavours that were on display at the time (as well as some especially brought out for me from the back) as I could.

While her colleague loaded me up with pots of some of their most popular flavours to try, an infectiously enthusiastic Lottie explained that Boho Gelato is run by a fantastic team of people who love ice-cream.

Everything is made on site using only the best quality, locally sourced ingredients, a state of the art Gelato machine, lots of skill, care and attention, and a sensitive palate to make sure the Gelato tastes just right! Their style of Gelato has a very low air content, plus lower fat and sugar than other ice creams which means it is very dense and luxurious, but also fresh tasting and sweet.

As I tucked into wonderfully creamy and decadent flavours such as Sea Salt Caramel, Soul Cherry, and Carrot Cake, I could not help but to nod unreservedly and make approving noises in agreement.

Boho Gelato are well known for their exceptional vegan flavours, made with water, soya and rice milk, in which they make over one hundred ever changing options, one of which being the next one I tried; a Peanut Butter Caramel Sorbet! This is a firm contender for my favourite. I could not get enough of it. I tried washing it down with another vegan offering; an alcoholic Pornstar Martini sorbet, however Sally’s ears perked up when she heard, and she took this one straight off me for herself, knocking it back and giving herself brain-freeze in the process.

ABSOLUTE

I had to settle for a vegan After Dinner Mint flavour, which was still mind-blowingly delicious. I savoured each mouthful with a slightly smug grin on my face, as Sally held her head in pain.

The staff on site have total control over what they want to create on the day, often experimenting with new ideas and taking inspiration from customer requests. With the Gelato’s on display changing daily, and often throughout the day, you will often find some weird and wonderful innovative flavours on offer, such as Liquorice, Basil and Black Pepper sorbet, Avocado, and Pink Champagne. Upon hearing this, I requested the weirdest Gelato they had on sale at the time. Thankfully it turned out to be Battenberg Cake flavour, which tasted just like the real thing, and took me back to my childhood visits to my Nan who seemed to always have a slice plated and ready for me when I arrived.

Unsurprisingly, being a blisteringly hot summer day, the store was incredibly popular, but with autumn just round the corner I wondered if this was the case in the colder months of the year. Although footfall through the door drops a little, it seems Brighton still has a taste for Gelato whatever the weather. Lottie explained by using seasonal ingredients they can create concoctions that fit with the time of year. Grabbing me a pot of incredibly lavish Blackberry Gingerbread and White Chocolate Gelato from the back room, she provided welcomed evidence to this.

Popular Autumnal flavours include Spiced

Pear Sorbet, Cinnamon Waffles and Banana Custard, and Honeycomb Donut, the latter being the next I had the pleasure of tasting, and my eyes honestly rolled into the back of my head in pleasure at each mouthful. I can only imagine what delights they bring out at Christmas time! They also keep themselves busy with collaborations with local food and drink businesses, with some of the top restaurants in Brighton serving Boho Gelato bespoke and often unusual flavours created especially for them. The Brighton Food Festival is also fast approaching, where from the 6th to the 16th September they have a “flavour takeover” asking local businesses to come up with new and exciting flavours for them to create.

As Sally had been doing all the talking whilst I was busy scoffing ice cream, I brought her a large tub of Chocolate Orange Nougat Gelato for the journey home, which she had been eyeing up the whole time we were there.

I then proceeded to dig in, wondering how I had missed this remarkable velvety smooth chocolate speckled fruity creation.

I have no doubt I will be stopping by throughout the autumn and winter months.

This visit has truly rekindled my love of ice cream and you will not find any more outstanding, diverse and exciting flavours than Boho Gelato.

Tony Shattell 6 Pool Valley, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 1NJ

ABSOLUTE

85

ALL Pizza £5.00 www.pizzapopbrighton.com 86

ABSOLUTE

Ethical, 12 hour brined, buttermilked, home spiced fried chicken and gourmet sides The Bok Shop Restaurant, 3-4 East Street BN1 1HP

@thebokshop

ABSOLUTE01273 777 312

bookings@thebokshop.com

/thebokshop 87

Adelfia

Greek Mediterranean Restaurant *****

'We are what we do. Excellence, then is not an act, but a habit' Arisotle the ancient Greek philosopher must have been referring to the Afedakis family as I was about to discover...

T

he air is cool and crisp and as we start to witness the sun burnt leaves falling to the ground, it is now time to say goodbye to this sensational summer and prepare for the winter ahead. However while our tan may fade, I have discovered that the sunny Mediterranean vibe does not have to disappear too!

In 2016 Brighton & Hove welcomed one of the city's most authentic and exciting Greek restaurants, complete with monthly party nights set to have you dancing and laughing those cold winter nights away.

Adelfia, meaning brothers, is an easy-going and fun Greek restaurant that is full of love, life and tradition. George Afedakis has a passion for food and after a successful career he decided that the one special ingredient for happiness is to share the Afedakis love of good food and pass the torch on to his two sons Yiannis and Andreas. The family have since been giving back to the community with genuine Greek hospitality, secret family recipes and food that is prepared with love and served with joy.

Every morning George arrives in Preston street at 6:30 am to start cooking and preparing for the day ahead. The quiet kitchen in the morning is George's special

88

place, his utopia where he can lose himself in his cooking. The restaurant is open 7 days a week with every inch of Adelfia, as George would say, being 'one billion percent authentic' Almost all of the ingredients are imported from the motherland with only the fish and meat being locally sourced.

The dedication is so genuine that twice a week two ingredients are flown directly from Greece making Adelfia the only establishment in the whole of the United Kingdom to have them on the menu!

Adelfia is proud to honour the blue and white flag that welcomes guests into the restaurant. The aim is to transfer love and authenticity

through cooking and allowing guests to lose themselves in Greek tradition.

It is well-known that the Greek diet is one of the healthiest in the world. Recipes are based around vegetables, fruit and fish with proteins coming from beans, lentils and peas. The Greeks adore their Olive oil, but the only real naughtiness is in the cheese and yogurt. After a rather decadent summer I have been focused on eating a healthier diet, so it pleased me greatly that I was being sent along to this Greek haven to sample the healthy sumptuous food and on one of Adelfia's famous monthly Greek

ABSOLUTE

entertainment nights.

Arriving straight from work, I was greeted with a warm smile and shot of raki. The Greek culture is all about family and friends coming together and this usually revolves around food and drink. As guests arrive it is tradition for all to take a drink or in my case a shot of raki as a welcome. I was glad to be the last to arrive as we had six on our table!

Every table in Adelifia was fully booked and as my night unfolded I was already planning to book for the following month, as I could see how popular this evening has become. It is rare

to find a local restaurant that is globally inspired and has the ability to transport you from the streets of Brighton & Hove to the heart of Greece and all through an atmosphere that is bursting with the wonderful flavours and Mediterranean traditions.

Most Greek venues focus on the traditional Santorini blue and white colour scheme, but here after careful consideration the olive tree was the inspiration behind the chic and relaxed decor. Soft sage walls, dining room greenery and vines add to the pleasant ambiance, whilst strategically placed pottery and pictures whisk you away to the Mediterranean.

The owner George immediately introduced himself and produced a bottle of Greek white wine, something I had not yet tried. However, as George pointed out, Greece was the first nation to produce this nectar of the Gods over 6000 years ago and so they have certainly had time to perfect it. Appropriately named given I was having dinner with George Afedakis himself, Golden Legend a Moschofilero is an aromatic dry white wine, fruity and refreshing this opened my eyes to Greek wine and reviled

my favourite Sauvignon Blanc.

The menu is extensive and covers every one of the wellknown Greek dishes, including some added twists created by the family. There are 20 starters and surprisingly only two contain meat which, given the recent shift in the United Kingdom towards a more plant based diet, is thrilling to see and I was amazed by the in-depth selection available.

I asked George to order the most popular dishes with my request being the hand dived scallops in Garlic and brandy sauce and the traditional Greek sausage. A wonderful selection arrived with Kolokithakia, lightly battered courgettes and dolmadakia hand-made stuffed vine leaves. The colours were vibrant, aromas delicious and flavours so sumptuous that I lost control and found myself eating much more than I usually would for a starter. I love meze style eating with small portions and lots of choice. It is fantastic for bringing people together, sharing and trying a variety of textures and flavours.

I requested the number one dish for my main course; Kleftico or slow roasted lamb with potatoes lemon, olive oil and

oregano. It is melt in your mouth, packing a punch with herbs and spices - the best I have ever tried! The Moussaka and Briam were equally tasty, fresh natural ingredients and substantial portions.

This is definitely the type of restaurant where you arrive unwind, relax and stay. I felt as though I was at a Greek banquet bursting with native flavour........ the best Greek food outside of Greece!

As the evening unfolded, the divine food continued to appear and the electric entertainment commenced, combining music with food & drink, in a lively happy atmosphere giving guests a real feel for this vibrant nation.

In between shots of raki I found myself leaping to my feet and shouting 'OPA' which I later discovered is a Greek expression used in celebration.

Despite the generous portions and flowing drinks, be ready to dance, shout and join in all the action including the Greek conga line that continues into the busy street. The ambiance is like nowhere else. Bouzouki music plays while performers dance and balance drinks on their heads and just when you think the night

ABSOLUTE

is wrapping up, a large cloth is thrown across the floor and plates handed out for Greek plate smashing fun. Stress busting and liberating, I think I may try and slip this into my Irish/Canadian family traditions.

I asked George about the monthly Greek nights and he said his aim is "To bring the Greek weather to Brighon & Hove with warm hospitality and a hot smile!" The Afedakis combination of charm and passion is contagious and it is hard not to fall in love with this family run business. There is a loyal fan base and with Christmas & New year bookings already being taken you must be fast to join in the celebrations.

Whether you pop in for a little snack at lunch, indulge in a leisurley evening or simply want to dance and sing I can assure you that this family will welcome you in as one of their own and spoil you with true Greek hospitality. efcharistó.......

Lindsay Katherine Hills www.adelfiagreekrestaurant. co.uk/

89

90

ABSOLUTE

BLOCKBAR.CO.UK

01273 673 891

OFFICE@BLOCKBAR.CO.UK

ABSOLUTE

101 ST JAMES STREET, BN21TP

/blockbrighton

/block_bar 91

The Gin Tub & SHIMMER

You never get a second chance to make a first impression or as the owner of The Gin Tub explained to me, 'it’s the seven second rule'.

Steve and Tors Tyler took this city by storm over a decade ago, creating some of the most fun, creative and risqué establishments that Brighton & Hove has ever seen. The secret to their success is endless imagination, creativity, passion and more drive than any other dream team I have met.

J

ust over a year ago The Gin Tub exploded on to the scene with its unique concept making headlines across the United Kingdom. In a world where so many of us are attached to our smart phone, the Tylers designed a space with an earthed metal screen. Stylish copper wires and silver foil embedded within the exposed brick work block mobile phone signals using the natural science of physics. The Michael 'Faraday cage' is just one example of the Tylers using imagination as a weapon against reality. As Albert Einstein said 'Creativity is intelligence having fun' and these proprietors are certainly doing that.

The Gin Tub is perfectly situated in bustling Church Road area of Hove and is surrounded by restaurants perfect for pre or post dinner drinks. The novelty does however not just end with your mobile phone signal being blocked. As the aim of the game is human interaction, each table is fitted with a vintage style phone complete with rotating dial and cord which I can imagine the Millennials have been fascinated with and Xennials secretly instagramming.

Last week Steve and Tori invited me to come and experience their bar and to be one of the first to check out the brand new wild and wonderful world they have created under the tub!

My partner in crime for the night and I arrived at 8pm and were greeted by a charming host who proceeded to explain how things work at The Gin Tub. Drinks can be ordered at your table using your unique number and you can also call other tables to chat. Tables are also not exclusive in an attempt to lead to good old fashioned human interaction and meeting new people as your night evolves. As seats become available you will be introduced to the next guests and so on and so fourth until you

92

leave and your space is filled.

We were placed on a table with a couple on their first date. They were over the moon to demonstrate the rotary phone and insisted we try their cocktails before ordering our own. I found their excitement contagious and before I knew it I was giggling away whilst attempting to call Steve in order to ask him what I should start the night off with.

My date, not being a fan of gin was relieved to be able to order a Margarita.

Beer and other spirits are available, however with over 100 varieties of gin and this being The Gin Tub I was keen to broaden my horizons and try a gin based cocktail.

The Gin Tub's bespoke cocktails are divine and the presentation is picture perfect - ideal for todays photo obsessed culture. However, as I looked around the room I noticed that the Tyler’s concept was working and people were actually talking. I suppose when you are put on a table with complete strangers you do not want to appear to be rude, nor embarrass yourself by whipping out your phone and negotiating position and lighting. This of course is saved for our very closest of friends…..

A slider selection of gins is available as well as nibbles of cheese, sliced meats and nuts which may be needed if you attempt the sliders. Every inch of The Gin Tub is carefully designed and all by the owners themselves. Steve told us about his love of collecting items on his travels from vintage stores, markets and making his ideas come to life.

The dimly lit main room is a treasure trove of sleek and quirky delights. Tiffany style lamps sit on wooden tables, leather arm chairs add a comforting vibe to the space and raised booths are scattered throughout. It’s a mix and match of old and

ABSOLUTE

new, but it works. Cosy and inviting, each table felt rather intimate considering we found ourselves chatting away to complete strangers.

Our 'First date' couple eventually moved on and so we shimmied around the table to make way for two ex Albion football players.

At first they seemed a little on edge. I suppose they initially would have preferred a table full of young women, but before I knew it my date was chatting away to them about sport and luckily for me I was being introduced to two new guests. As the six of us chatted away and continued to work our way through the cocktail menu, it was refreshing not to be checking my phone and simply engaging with people that I most likely would never have made the time to chat to. A variety of ages and all from different industries, the conversation was interesting and we were all impressed with how well this system was working.

At this point I had completely forgotten that Steve had yet another surprise for us.

Ironically given the no phones emphasis upstairs, beneath The Gin Tub is the stunning Shimmer Bar. This is a selfie bar designed solely with the aim of taking photos to share on social media. The global phenomenon of social media self expression through smart phones has become a key marketing tool for businesses around the world. Visual pictures tell a story and allow for the customer to engage with both the company and followers and brand awareness is key to success.

Collette Miller from California was one of the first artists to take advantage of this movement and created The Global Angel wing project. Painting large colourful wings around the world, she gave people the opportunity stand in the middle recreating angelic poses whilst also sharing her message and promoting her other art work. The fashion designer Paul Smiths

famous pink wall on Melrose Avenue is. the most instagrammed wall in the world and has certainly boosted followers and fans on Instagram. And now here in the UK and on our south coast shores, Steve and Tors have launched the worlds first selfie bar where every inch of the venue from the floor to the ceiling is photo worthy.

The sensory high started as we walked down the stairs with walls covered in green artificial touchable grass; a dreamlike setting whisking you away to a secret destination.

This venue is inspired by the popular series Stranger Things and Annihiliation, both sic-fi thrillers that push reality out of the window and inspire fun and freedom.

Everywhere you turn there is something to capture your imagination, from the neon signs with bold statements to the floral wall and dripping foliage. The vivid and bizarre painting in the bathroom that makes you feel like you are inside the mind of someone on LSD is also a fantastic talking point.

However, the main attraction (apart from the crazy shapes being thrown on the dance floor) has got to be the wooden swing under the stairs. It’s a magical space with pink and white flowers on the wall and a sign saying 'You Go Girl,' as if I needed encouragement!

This is definitely the most popular and fun photo opportunity in Shimmer’s sensational space.

The cocktails are also like nothing you have tried before. The Unicorn cocktail is purple and full of edible glitter, complete with a marshmallow unicorn head and strawberry laces as a tail. My personal favourite tipple of the night has got to be 'The Selfie Cocktail'. The bar man will stop in his tracks to take a mini polaroid of you and your friends which is then clipped to your glass and later kept as a reminder of the playful parallel universe you entered when you stepped through the Shimmer wall.

The synergy between the two bars is

perfect and offers something for everyone.

These bars are vibrant and fun and an escape from reality. I had one of the most satisfying nights out that I have had in ages.

Partly this was due to the delicious cocktails and new friends, but mainly because this was a truly memorable experience that I cannot wait experience again. • Lindsay Katherine Hills https://thegintub.co.uk/

ABSOLUTE

93

94

ABSOLUTE

A NEW TYPE OF DINER

We offer incredible new versions of food and drink that you might find familiar.

We have sodas made in house with some help from our centrifuge machine. They have around one tenth of the sugar of regular sodas.

Our cocktails are crafted with loving care using house made essences, bitters and artisanal spirits.

Some of our cakes have no added sugar.

Some are completely dairy free.

We are really proud of our velvety, house made, organic cashew and tiger nut milk blend.

Our coffee has to be tasted to be believed.

We only use the best butter, virgin coconut oil (for our many non dairy/vegan creations) and extra virgin olive oil for dressing.

Our tea is brewed in clean glass, to the perfect temperature.

Everything we have is completely free of gluten. That's right, everything. Even our house made sourdough, sweet bakes and our buttermilk fried chicken.

Our aim is excellence as standard.

We make super food for super people.

PLEASE PAY US A VISIT 99 Trafalgar Street, Brighton, BN1 4ER 01273 620 036 www.doughlover.com www.instagram.com/dough_lover_

Brighton's

changing face Brighton’s newest projects and restaurants Louise Maloney Brighton is an ever-trending and evolutionary place.

Named the most hipster city in the UK, it is known for being in vogue and always having something new to offer its inhabitants. From major projects like the i360 to the myriad of independent businesses, there have been many new and exciting projects keeping Brighton the exciting and modern place that it is. The next couple of years are to bring even more major changes to the city, mainly to Brighton’s most unique and iconic feature, the seafront.

From changing face to changing taste, the city’s similarly iconic culinary scene has also seen many businesses bring new and innovative concepts to life. Here we have put together a small overview of just some of Brighton’s new places and spaces.

96 96

ABSOLUTE

q BRIGHTON MARINA DEVELOPMENT To the very east of Brighton, one of the major current projects is the Brighton Marina development. Since 2006 there have been plans to develop Brighton Marina, in 2016 the first phase of development was competed and it is now entering its second phase of the build. The aim of the project is to improve the marina, not just commercially but environmentally too. Once completed, accessibility to and from the area will also be improved. The development has been constructed on a platform over Spending Beach and includes 11 buildings with commercial and community spaces, two pedestrian and cycle bridges and outdoor recreation areas. The site is a clear sign of moves towards modern and sustainable living standards with renewable energy features incorporated into the designs. In addition, 40% of the residential apartments will be part of an affordable housing scheme, with 20 of them being sold as shared ownership social housing.

q SOHO HOUSE BRIGHTON Construction has also started for Soho House, which is an international brand that builds luxury houses. Providing ‘a home away from home’, this brand is known for creating comfortable and relaxed private members clubs for people in the creative industries. High profile celebrities such as Madonna, Hugh Grant and Johnny Depp have been known to stay with Soho House. This new development is part of the regeneration of the Madeira Terraces area and will be built above the Sea Life Centre aquarium.

It intends to not only provide a private members club but add to Brighton’s tourism and hospitality industries. The site will hold luxury accommodation, a private pool and outdoor bar but it will also have restaurants and cafe for the public to enjoy.

ABSOLUTE

97 97

Brighton's

changing face q THE WATERFRONT PROJECT CHURCHILL SQUARE/THE BRIGHTON CENTRE/BLACK ROCKS

Brighton council’s £15.2 million bid to build a new sport centre was accepted. The plans propose to include a 25 metre swimming pool, sports hall, 120 station gym, spinning room, workout studio, quiet activity room, sauna suite and gymnastics centre.

The following construction projects are still in the planning stages and will see further progress over the next couple of years.

As part of what is called the Waterfront Project, Churchill Square along with the Brighton Centre and the Odeon Cinema are to be demolished in order to construct a new commercial site. The plans propose for Churchill Square to be extended down to the seafront, expanding on the current shopping centre. This development will help Brighton’s ambitions in becoming a regional shopping destination in order to rival neighbouring cities like London and Southampton. The plans also aim to tackle the city’s congestion problems and accessibility to the sea from Western Road. If the Waterfront Project plans come to fruition then Brighton will also see a renovation of the Brighton Centre. It is proposed that a new venue to replace the Brighton Centre will be built at Black Rocks.

Located east of the Pier, the Black Rocks site has been derelict for 30 years and is the chosen place in the council’s plans to build a new conference centre and arena. So far, the plans have received £12 million in funds from the Government’s Local Enterprise Partnership in February 2017 but plans are still to be agreed and confirmed.

q KING ALFRED REDEVELOPMENT An additional project to the west end of the promenade is also taking form. The King Alfred Leisure Centre has been subject to public complaint for some time. Many people have called for it to be pulled down arguing that its facilities are not up to standard and the building itself is in need of a renovation. Finally in February this year Brighton council’s £15.2 million bid to build a new sport centre was accepted.

The plans propose to include a 25 metre swimming pool, sports hall, 120 station gym, spinning room, workout studio, quiet activity room, sauna suite and gymnastics centre. Additional features include an indoor bowls hall, martial arts dojo, cafe, creche, soft play, and a 200 space car park. The site will also have four apartment buildings with around 560 flats. There is still a long way to go until building works start however as the planning proposals are not due to be submitted until around 2020.

98

ABSOLUTE

This famous London brand will be bringing a futuristic alfresco experience to Brighton Square. The company aims to revive the area with a modern twist q COPPA CLUB This famous London brand will be bringing a futuristic alfresco experience to Brighton Square. The company aims to revive the area with a modern twist, following the same style as the alfresco igloos at their Tower Bridge location. Outdoor dining is not something British establishments have often been known for, mainly due to the temperamental nature of our weather, but this innovative concept will bring stylish outdoor dining to the Brighton Lanes. The pod will be made up of a translucent cover that allows diners to see through but it will also protect them from the weather, allowing year round alfresco dining. Five of the shops in the square are set to be converted into one restaurant with the pod surrounding the central dolphin fountain. This design intends to mirror the pod of the i360 on Brighton seafront. The venue will be open to all offering all day dining, from coffee in the morning, a place to relax or work in the day, and a chic location to eat and drink with friends in the evening.

q THIRD AVENUE HOVE

Third Avenue gives you no reason to leave by catering for every time of day.

ABSOLUTE

Luckily, the following restaurants are already open! Third Avenue is a setting suitable to any time of day and is a hybrid establishment made up of two restaurants, a bar and a nightclub. It is the go-to place in Hove to relax, socialise and celebrate - or eat, drink, dance, as their slogan says. Warm tones and upholstered furniture give the interior a lounge-like quality which provides a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The Grill Room holds brunch, lunch and dinner and serves a range of seafood and meats, including their signature premium quality steaks. 72, the sushi bar and lounge, offers an alternative place to dine. Giving a modern twist on traditional sushi, 72 also provides hand selected wines and handcrafted inhouse cocktails. Finally, Third Avenue is also open on Friday and Saturday nights until 2:30am with DJs hosting R&B lounge music. Mixed-venues are not common in and around Brighton & Hove area and Third Avenue gives you no reason to leave by catering for every time of day.

99

Brighton's

changing face

Famed for its American-sized portions and style, the brand’s ethos is geared towards delivering quality and classic American comfort food. q 7 BONE With eight other locations around the south of England, Matt and Rich opened their Hove restaurant to the public in late 2017. Famed for its American-sized portions and style, the brand’s ethos is geared towards delivering quality and classic American comfort food.

Served in food baskets and wrappers, you may think this is a typical American diner but the popularity of this Hove restaurant can attest to its high quality food. Their burgers take on some interesting names, such as the ‘Prince Charles is Overrated’, the ‘Robert Johnston’, and the ‘Juicy Boris’ burger. This burger joint is a place to go when you are famished.

Catering for meat-eaters and vegans alike, the ‘Whoopi Goldburger’ will see that Brighton’s vegan population are more than satisfied. q PATTY AND BUN Burger restaurant Patty & Bun has come to Brighton for its first move outside of London.

The company has made quick progress in setting up its chain of nine restaurants, starting out as a London pop-up and only launching its first restaurant in 2012. Prime location sees this restaurant perched on the corner of Meeting House Lane and Ship Street. With outdoor benches, this place offers a more casual dining style in the Lanes. It’s American diner-style interior is cheery and colourful to match its creativelytitled burgers which take inspiration from American pop-culture offering diners choices such as a the ‘Lambshank Redemption’ and a ‘Smokey Robinson’ burger. Catering for meat-eaters and vegans alike, the ‘Whoopi Goldburger’ will see that Brighton’s vegan population are more than satisfied.

100

ABSOLUTE

As a more intimate and wholesome experience, diners can see the process from creation to consumption. q CIN CIN True authentic Italian food. Cin Cin in the North Laine has been around since 2016 but is still one of Brighton's food hotspots.

2018 has seen founder David Toscano open a second location on Western Road which opened in January this year. The unique dining style of Cin Cin is what sets it apart from the many other Italian restaurants in city. Its open kitchen is surrounded by the dining counter which allow customers to sit and watch chefs prepare the food. As a more intimate and wholesome experience, diners can see the process from creation to consumption. Each of the two locations offer a different menu with daily specials.

The restaurant featured in Brighton’s Best Cookbook less than a year after opening its first spot and more recently has been in the Waitrose Good Food Guide.friends in the evening.

The menu offers a selection of classic dishes combined with international influences, reflecting the city’s creative and rich identity.

ABSOLUTE

q THE IVY The grade II listed post office on Ship Street is now home to The Ivy Collection’s first coastal venue. Serving breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and cocktails The Ivy is an exciting and sophisticated venue.

The long awaited venue opened in June 2018 with Fat-Boy Slim and MasterChef winner Kenny Tutt in attendance. The Ivy is an upmarket venue, but more of a casual spin off from the original Covent Garden restaurant. The menu offers a selection of classic dishes combined with international influences, reflecting the city’s creative and rich identity. Likewise, the interior is unique mixing classic features with bright colours and a range of eye-catching textures and art work. It is the overall experience which excites, with details carefully selected from the ornate teapots to the elegant chandeliers. Tucked away at the back of the restaurant is The Tidal Room which seats 20 and takes inspiration from Brighton’s seaside location with an eclectic mix of vintage prints and oceanic creatures.

The room is suited to private parties and celebrations and is also used for corporate breakfasts and client lunches.

101

Brighton's

changing face This fine dining restaurant is ran by MasterChef winner Steven Edwards, and currently holds a Michelin Plate and 2 AA Rosettes. q ETCH. Another upmarket venue that has established itself in one of the city’s old buildings. It is located in the old bank on the corner of Church Road and Sackville Road in Hove. This fine dining restaurant is ran

by MasterChef winner Steven Edwards, and currently holds a Michelin Plate and 2 AA Rosettes. On top of that, it has consistently attained a 5 in the Good Food Guide, winning the joint top score with Little Fish Hove this year. It uses the very best of Sussex produce with a changing menu every month. The set up has an open kitchen and bar with 12 tables, it offers 5, 7 or 9 course tasting menus only and prices vary between £50£70. The food is exquisitely presented in conceptual and creative ways that form kaleidoscopic patterns on the plate.

q SHIRAZ GRILLHOUSE The newest restaurant which features on this list is Shiraz Grillhouse. Opening in July, this restaurant is still in its first few weeks of business. Located on Church Street, this 50 seater restaurant serves traditional Persian and Iranian cuisine. The name comes from the Iranian city Shiraz the old capital of Persia and has long been associated with a rich cultural heritage. The interior aesthetic exhibits Persian style in the dark wooden tables and chairs and the elaborate mosaic work that contrasts the exposed brick walls. The charcoal grill is used to cook many of the meat dishes but there are also vegetarians and vegans options. The menu features traditional foods such as hummus, baba ganoush, dolmeh, saffron rice, kababs and salads. Enjoy traditional Persian tea and, of course, finish with the deliciously rich baklava for dessert.

102

Located on Church Street, this 50 seater restaurant serves traditional Persian and Iranian cuisine.

ABSOLUTE

What might be... q THE PEOPLE'S PROMENADE New released CGI images of our Brighton Madeira Terrace development proposal - ‘'People’s Promenade".

The images show the stunning reimagining of the renowned Victorian arches into a worldclass, beachfront leisure destination. The new development would create green public spaces and make it easier for people to access Brighton beach via Madeira Drive. Retail units would be accessible from the beachfront and generate footfall from tourists and Brighton locals alike.

The project aims to return Madeira Drive to its former glory, creating a vibrant hub of activity on the seafront, including a year round retail parade and food and beverage destination extending onto the promenade, as well as a world-class hotel development. The new building and ubran green spaces would aim to substantially increase commercial performance, creating hundreds of jobs and encouraging international tourism to Brighton and Hove.

The new Brighton proposal is being led by Brighton and Hove resident and Boxpark founder, Roger Wade, who has developed the plans alongside local architect Paul Nicholson from Chalk Architecture. The regeneration project would restore the existing Victorian arch structures, whilst retaining their architectural heritage and increasing commercial appeal for both locals and visitors.

Wade commented; “As a Brighton and Hove resident I’m passionate about the regeneration of our outstanding sea-front. Maderia Drive and the accompaniying Terrace are the embodiment of the Victorian grandeur that saw Brighton become the UK’s favourite seaside destination.

The new images show how our proposal would redevelop the area whilst maintaining the architecture that Madeira Terrace has become known for.” Paul Nicholson, Chalk Architecture says; “Further to developing a concept to save the Madeira Arches in 2015, we have had an ongoing constructive engagement with the local community about our ideas. In response to significant public interest the scheme has evolved over time into a dynamic proposal of new & enhanced public space wrapping around retail, leisure,and commercial office use. Working with the Boxpark team has transformed the scheme into an exceptionally exciting prospect.” www.boxpark.co.uk/blog/newpeoples-promenade-cgi-images/

ABSOLUTE

103

104

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

105

London Lifestyle London Art Our fabulous capital is home to some of the very best art galleries and exhibitions in the world, just waiting for you to discover and experience in the glorious autumnal months ahead of us.

In this issue of London Lifestyle, you are invited to come take a stroll through beautiful Mayfair and step over the threshold of one of my favourite London galleries; the House of Fine Art.

The House of Fine Art – HOFA Gallery The House of Fine Art on Maddox Street is one of London’s newest and most significant art galleries right now. Nestled in decadent Mayfair, just a stone throw from Bond Street, it has positioned itself in one of the best areas in London, surrounded by a wealth of art, gorgeous architecture and a plethora of exquisite restaurants and luxurious boutiques. The HOFA gallery showcases an elite selection of internationally acclaimed

106

and established artists, and their collection features original art works covering a multitude of genres.

On entering HOFA, you will see that it’s deceptively big with masses of wall space, high ceilings and huge beautiful windows, proudly displaying art works from some of the world’s most talented artists. On my visit I found all the pieces to be beautiful, innovative and enormously thought-

ABSOLUTE

provoking, with many of the art-works using an array of colour, materials and unique artistic techniques that are simply out of this world.

I met with gallery Director, Chris Shake, who kindly walked me through their current exhibition and offered me a wonderful insight into how HOFA began and its exciting plans for 2018 and beyond.

TOP, Maxim Wakultschik, CENTRE, Joseph Klibansky, The Thinker

What was the inspiration behind the House of Fine Art and where and when did it all begin?

The House of Fine Art began four years ago as a personal art collection from the founders, Simonida Pavicevic and Elio D'Anna has been an and their passion for art.

Siminoda, the co-founder has an extensive background in art and began advising a small group of collectors in London and Switzerland on which artists to buy. She began visiting art fairs, museums and artists’ studios with the intent to buy for her collectors, as well as her own collection. A major shift happened when The House of Fine art began signing major international artists who did not have representation in London and a year later HOFA Gallery was born and extended its services and, by this time, very large art portfolio to the London collecting crowd. One gallery in Royal Opera Arcade turned into two with Mykonos (Nammos Village), two to three with Mayfair on Maddox Street, and in October the fourth HOFA Gallery will open in West Hollywood.

How would you describe HOFA in London to someone who has never visited?

HOFA Gallery is a very elegant place. Our taste for art and the artists we represent have not only a strong sense a sense of authentic style, but a strive towards mastery in their craft. As a gallery, we work to compliment and equal that of our artist's talents as a gallery and a promotional platform for our artists. Our artist has extremely high standards in their practice, they are both inwardly and outwardly creative, and have all built international acclaim with their work.

Working with artists at this level requires a space and a team who can produce the same output in their field of endeavour. So, when you walk into any HOFA Gallery, you should expect to be met with a graceful space, a knowledgeable team and world-class art.

What makes HOFA different to other art galleries in London?

Our selection of artists would be the most obvious answer - we are nothing without the strong relationships we have with our artists, whom we all have a high level of love and respect for in terms of their work and as individuals. I've worked at other galleries and what’s impressive about HOFA Gallery is how the entire team is connected to the artists both professionally and personally, which creates a special relationship where business can thrive. The more we know and the closer we are to our artist, the more successful we both will be. The lesser obvious answer would be the HOFA Gallery is a family business. Even though it is spread across four galleries, HOFA Gallery's team are all connected through family and close friendships, creating a team that works fluidly and smoothly all towards the same goal. The art industry can sometimes be quite cutthroat but HOFA Gallery is a lean

and tight-knit team of people who know and trust each other and accomplish goals together seamlessly. I think my second point is the seed of my first point and it's not easy to find a team who can work together so efficiently and effectively - so this competitive advantage would be pretty hard to copy.

Describe your role as Director at HOFA and what a typical working day at HOFA would entail?

I'm the newest member of the family at HOFA Gallery, although I've been working with the gallery indirectly for many years. I manage our Mayfair location and work on new business and technology strategies for the group. We are currently adopting new technologies at all levels of the business, from how we interact with our artists, partners and suppliers, to how we take payments. This is a good time to introduce our upcoming exhibition in partnership with UPhold in the US and the opening of our new West Hollywood gallery. We are the first gallery in the world to put our entire portfolio up for sale via cryptocurrency, adopting new technologies and inviting a new set of clientele to get involved in arts and culture. We have only announced the exhibition and the adoption last week and we have already received a flood of requests and enquires. As a Bitcoin and Ethereum investor myself, I've never been more excited to see what happens with an exhibition. This exhibition opening will be in London on 2nd October and in West Hollywood on 18th October. As for typical work day, it’s very much client focused. I'm obsessed with making sure our clients are blown away by the art, the gallery and our team's commitment.

What has contributed to HOFAs success?

Simply put, the bond between the team and the artists but there are so many underlying factors when measuring the success of a gallery, or any business for that matter. For HOFA Gallery, success has come flooding in over the past few years but there were years of foundation that success was built upon. The founders have been very smart to seek out talented people and let them produce creatively. We are often surprised by what the team can do and how creative the whole team dynamic can become when everyone is focused on a project.

Another major contribution would be how everyone, across the organisation, is laserfocused on our client's needs and working hard at getting them what they want. It is a completive market and new collectors especially are still looking for galleries and artists whom they become loyal patrons of. We focus our attention on bringing our clients into the family and treating them as such.

ABSOLUTE

107

London Lifestyle

BELOW, Joseph Klibansky Your Body is Like a work of Art Baby

What do you like most about HOFA being situated on Maddox Street and the surrounding Mayfair area?

I LOVE this location - we are at the cross of Maddox and Bond Street, which, for a young gallery trying to get recognised is dream come true. On the other hand, this is the most competitive area for art in the world. If you’re not energised by that, then you may not last very long here. You have all of the major galleries and auction houses in a 5-minute radius and the competition is fierce. It's exciting and there is nothing more thrilling than playing in the big leagues for high stakes. We all believe and are fully committed to the brand and our artists, it shows when you come into the gallery, and people in the area are receiving as well. I get told very often by clients and walk-ins that they would acquire every artist on the wall - being in Mayfair, and knowing who is around, there is no greater compliment.

How do you decide which artists will be exhibited?

This is a balancing act between lots of people; the artists, our head curator, and the logistics team. It gets more complex when you start adding more galleries and fairs into the mix, but it always seems to work out fine. In terms showing artists during group show periods, we endeavour to curate an amazing collection of works in each gallery backed by one idea and a common thread. Our last group show was called the Edit and opened the Mayfair space and was simply a collection of works from our top artists that we were able to hand pick for the opening, with the goal of picking the greatest works. We were opening a new space in a highly competitive area, so we decided the best course of action was to show the best work we could get our hands on and it was received very well. When deciding upon a solo exhibition we plan ahead at least a year so that the artists have time to create a body of work that is special and is meaningful. This is usually a group decision made also with the artist after careful consideration and planning.

the head of a gorilla with a gold birthday hat and a party horn. The level of detail in this work and the immense energy that Klibansky is able to deliver in his works are unlike any other artists I've seen from his time. The market has also responded favourably to his work. He continues to smash auction results year on year and has over 25 Solo Exhibitions under his belt. It's quite impressive to see what he has already achieved, and we are excited to see what can happen this coming year.

Can you tell us about your new exhibition coming up later this autumn in London?

In the spirit of adopting of new technologies, we have decided to put our entire portfolio of £115 Million of art up for sale in partnership with Uphold, a cryptocurrency platform in the US. What makes this next exhibition particularly interesting?

This is interesting to us because we believe not only that Blockchain is a highly sophisticated technology for trading value, we also believe that this will open the door of the art world to new collectors, increasing the overall size of the industry. Personally, I'm obsessed with economic efficiency and believe

Do you have favourite artists or favourite pieces in the current London exhibition?

If we are only speaking about the current exhibition, I would say my favourite piece would be Big Bang, 2018 by Joseph Klibansky. This sculpture has an incredible presence and gives the viewer a feeling of playful contemplation. It is a 1.4-meter tall polished bronze sculpture depicting

108

ABSOLUTE

LEFT, Maxim WakultschikYour Body

it is high time for society to improve how we trade value with one another and with the internet we can connect to anyone, anywhere, in a few seconds.

With Blockchain, we will be able to exchange with anyone, anywhere, within a few seconds without the inefficiencies of banks and humans. The Blockchain technology is still in its early days and no one knows which cryptocurrencies will be the major players, but we wholeheartedly believe that there is place in the art market for different forms of value exchange and cryptocurrency is another way to exchange value. Since the show has hit the press, we have met so many outstanding people who have dedicated their lives and wealth to this cause. Several very smart and driven individuals behind this technology and which have already welcomed us into their communities and want to collaborate. It's already been a rich and rewarding experience and we haven't even scratched the surface yet.

Are there any other events or milestones coming up for the HOFA gallery which you are looking forward to?

We've just signed Joseph Klibansky who everyone is excited about right now. We will have new works by the artist in our Mykonos gallery within the next few weeks. We are also very much looking forward to opening our first US gallery in West Hollywood in October with part two of the cryptocurrency exhibition launch (part one opens in our London Mayfair gallery during Frieze week on 2nd October).

I'm personally eager to work on Bran Symondson's solo exhibition next year; there is an exhilarating evolution to his AK-47 sculpture work occurring right now (his latest piece sold for 45K in charity auction) and he is creating some bold and exciting projects that I can't wait to see in the flesh.

The House of Fine Art – HOFA Gallery www.thehouseoffineart.com 58 Maddox Street, Mayfair, London, W1S 1AY +44 (0) 207 1932817 info@TheHouseofFineArt.com

If you endeavour to visit one new place in our glorious capital this autumn, make sure it’s the House of Fine Art gallery. Chris and his team look forward to meeting you and showing you their new exhibition, which promises to be a wonderfully innovative and visually spectacular experience with art-works from some of the world’s most brilliant artists. So, do go take a look, I promise you will be so pleased you did.

Charlie McBrien

ABSOLUTE

109

110

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

Seychelles

112

ABSOLUTE

Island Jewels in an Azure Sea

by Glynn Burridge

T

he 115 islands of the Seychelles Archipelago lie scattered across their secret corner of the western Indian Ocean like precious gemstones set in a universe of azure water – stepping stones to the east coast of Africa, some thousand miles away, and natural gateway to the many treasures of the continent.

These islands were first discovered by the brave Arab mariners of the 9th century B.C. who first began to chart the unknown waters of an ocean they called the ‘bahr al zanj’’ or ‘sea of the blacks’, leaving traces of their presence in the names they gave to certain of the islands such as Aldabra which is sometimes appropriately translated from Arabic as ‘the rock.’

With nothing in the way of historical records to fall back on, we are left with little more than conjecture to fathom the precise history of these spectacularly beautiful islands which may also have received visits from the Phoenicians; from a people who once sailed from the other side of the planet to eventually settle the island of Madagascar and from the famous 1472 Chinese treasure fleet of Admiral Zheng. Whatever their past, the waves have long since washed away all trace of those early settlers and explorers.

After having served as a hideout for the pirates of the 17th and 18th century, one of whom, Olivier Le Vasseur, also known as La Buse, is believed to have buried a massive and as yet undiscovered treasure hoard on the main island, Mahé, the islands were finally settled by the French in 1756. They remained a French colony until they passed to the English after the defeat of Napoleon in 1814 and it was they who administrated the islands until their independence as a sovereign republic within the Commonwealth in 1976.

The islands’ legendary loveliness has long acted as a magnet to travellers in search of the Holy Grail of pristine tropical beauty and many famous travellers have beaten a path to its shores including the likes of Ian Fleming, author of James Bond, who visited the islands to receive inspiration for one of his Bond books.

The islands finally emerged from their slumber of ages in 1972 when they became connected to the rest of the world via a new international airport which saw the birth of the islands’ tourism industry.

Seychelles, straddling the western Indian Ocean between 6 and 10 degrees south of the equator, is divided into 6 island groups with the Inner Islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue together with their neighbouring isles forming the hub of the islands’ tourism industry, the economic life of the nation and its political and social infrastructure.

Measuring 27km long and 8km wide, Mahé, the principal island is a mountainous, granitic island that boasts no less than 65 beaches. It is home to the capital, Victoria, and also to the international airport and to the vast majority of the 90,000, mainly Roman Catholic population.

Commanding spectacular views of the surrounding ocean, Mahé contains the lion’s share of the archipelago’s hotels, tourism amenities and retail outlets. The charming capital, Victoria, has many fascinating nooks & crannies and points of historical interest including its bustling market that supplies much of the island’s fresh produce: fresh fish; vegetables; fruits; condiments and spices. Mahé also showcases a surprising variety of flora & fauna including many indigenous species, discoverable at the Botanical Gardens or on organised excursions along popular walks and trails. The fascinating underwater treasure houses of the Ste. Anne and Cap Ternay Marine National Parks, meanwhile, can be visited on snorkelling expeditions and a variety of excursions.

‘The islands’ legendary loveliness has long acted as a magnet to travellers in search of the Holy Grail of pristine tropical beauty.’

ABSOLUTE

113

Seychelles Island Jewels in an Azure Sea Seychelles’ second largest island, Praslin, lies 45 kilometers (24 miles) north-east of Mahé and is accessible by Air Seychelles domestic flights in 15 minutes or by fast catamaran ferry in 45 minutes. It is home to the legendary Vallée de Mai in which grows the fabulous Coco-de-mer and possesses some of the most striking beaches of the archipelago such as Anse Lazio, widely acclaimed to be the most beautiful beach on earth.

Praslin stands at the forefront of the country’s tourism industry with a rich assortment of hotels and guesthouses whose strong tradition of Seychelles’ hospitality over a period of many years has proved a favourite with visitors.

The island is ideally situated for holidaymakers wishing to island hop to a handful of nearby exotic destinations such as Chauve Souris, Cousin, Curieuse, St. Pierre, La Digue and the Aride bird reserve. It is also a haven for nature lovers seeking rare endemic species such as the black parrot for which Praslin is the last habitat or wishing to explore the island’s network of footpaths.

La Digue, known as ‘the island where Time stands still’, is situated forty kilometres (25 miles) from Mahé and 7 km (3.5 miles) from Praslin and is the fourth largest island in the Seychelles after Silhouette. This granite island, with its unique, languid pace of life, receives its visitors mainly by boat at the quaint jetty at La Passe and is a popular destination for holidaymakers wishing for a taste of the traditional. Here is a place where the bicycle and ox cart still hold sway on shady island pathways and where a distinct sense of antiquity pervades the island’s customs, architecture and general way of life.

Anse la Source d’Argent is among the island’s most famous beaches, celebrated for its granite boulders that seem to have been sculpted by a divine hand to adorn a beach of breath-taking beauty while at the Union Estate, visitors will have the chance to view some of the traditional local industries of times past. Nature lovers will have the opportunity to seek out the rare Black Paradise Flycatcher, once thought to be extinct but now protected in the La Digue Vev Special Reserve which is also

114

home to two extremely rare species of terrapin. The woodlands of La Digue are especially attractive and nurture several species of delicate orchids. The island is also an ideal stepping-stone for the nearby island attractions of Grande and Petit Soeur, Félicité, Coco and Marianne.

The remaining five groups of Outer Islands represent the far frontier of the Seychelles holiday experience. Here, shimmering atolls and reef islands, thread like pearls on strings of surf and unaltered since the days of their origin, offer the summit of island-style living.

Currently, only three such islands offer accommodation: the islands of Denis and Bird located 100 miles to the north of Mahé and Desroches Island in the Amirantes, 140 miles to the south-east. Here the fishing, diving and sailing are superb in places where the only sail on the ocean and the only tracks on any beach will be your own.

Overall, all the islands have been blessed with many natural assets and attributes including possessing a near-perfect and disease-free climate; an endless list of worldbeating beaches; a sanctuary for some of the world’s rarest species of flora & fauna and an enviable conservation record whereby almost half of the 455 sq.km landmass has been set aside as natural parks and reserves.

There are also no less than two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the extraordinary Vallée de Mai where the legendary, doublelobed coconut, the Coco-de-Mer grows high on ancient palms in a setting so surreal it was once thought to be the original site of the Garden of Eden, and Aldabra atoll, the planet’s largest raised coral atoll.

Nowhere else on earth will you find the mysterious Jellyfish Tree of which only 8 specimens remain; the Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher; the world’s smallest frog; heaviest land tortoise; largest population of giant land tortoises (150,000) living in the wild and the Indian Ocean’s only flightless bird. Between them, the islands also boast some of the most spectacular seabird colonies on earth as well as 13 species and 17 sub-species of birdlife that occur in Seychelles and nowhere else, making the islands a true birdwatcher’s paradise.

ABSOLUTE

The surrounding waters, meanwhile, are a natural aquarium boasting a dizzying array of coral reef fish, turtle, ray, shark, dolphin, marlin and sailfish as well as colourful coral growth and a host of other marine organisms. The world’s largest fish migrates to these waters: that gentle giant of the seas, the 40 ft. whale shark - one of Seychelles’ many protected species.

Also on offer is an amazing degree of diversity which takes in the contrast between 41 towering granite isles and the 74 shimmering sand cays, reef islands and atolls of the Outer Islands while the multi-ethnic roots of its relatively young society lend themselves to a varied and vibrant culture with all its people and major religions living beside one another in perfect harmony. The diversity also extends to contrasting styles of architecture and beyond to the delicious, Seychellois Creole cuisine with its magical blend of European, Indian and Chinese culinary influences.

And when it comes to things to do, there is a wide choice of world-class fishing, sailing and diving as well as spa & wellness holidays, honeymoons & romance, trekking, island-hopping & golf. All of these can be enjoyed from an equally diverse array of accommodation options that includes the ultimate in pampering at exclusive 5-star resorts and island hideaways, the Creole intimacy of the smaller hotel and guesthouse and the flexibility of any number of self-caterings. These are the stepping stones to your unique experience of Paradise, where the innate tranquility of the islands forms the ideal backdrop against which to recalibrate mind, body and soul and enjoy the vacation of a lifetime.

No account of Seychelles’ riches can be considered complete without mention of its reputation as ‘The Islands of Love’ and it is little wonder that that lovers are inspired to take their vows and wed in this gentle and romantic atmosphere.

Sensual Seychelles creates the idyllic ambience for an unforgettable wedding day, honeymoon or anniversary upon the silver-soft sands and beneath the swaying palms of discreet island hideaways.

‘No account of Seychelles’ riches can be considered complete without mention of its reputation as ‘The Islands of Love’ and it is little wonder that that lovers are inspired to take their vows and wed in this gentle and romantic atmosphere.’

Transportation, both in between and around the islands, makes the visitor’s dream of island-hopping a reality and besides Air Seychelles’ domestic flights, fast ferry transfers or passages on traditional, sailassisted schooners all bring the principal islands and their satellites within easy reach.

A varied choice of excursions, both land and marine, is available through local ground handlers that will introduce you to the very best that Seychelles has to offer while hire and chauffeur driven cars and taxis are also available for you to enjoy your personal voyage of discovery around the main islands of Mahé and Praslin. A wide network of bus routes on Mahé and Praslin caters for most itineraries for those who wish to sample an aspect of the typical Creole lifestyle.

Further memorable experiences can be had via Seychelles’ suite of events that includes February’s increasingly popular Eco-friendly Marathon; August’s Feast of La Digue; September’s Tourism Ball and the perennial FetAfrik and Festival Kreol.

The islands have been made accessible as never before thanks to the arrival on

ABSOLUTE

the aviation scene of major players such as Emirates Airlines, Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Condor, Sri Lankan Airline, Turkish Airways, British Airways, Air France and Etihad which is now in a dynamic partnership with the national carrier, Air Seychelles, offering daily frequencies to make Seychelles virtually one stop away from anywhere on the planet with the added advantage of zero visa requirements for any nationality.

Meditation techniques invite us to close our eyes and imagine Shangrila, a mythical place of ultimate harmony where tired spirits can be refreshed and worries washed away. Somewhere with the space to breathe the purest air and ample room to stroll the trackless, powder-soft sands of breathtaking beaches. A place for the senses to feast on the endless delight of fresh experiences.

Creation has blessed Seychelles with all of this and more. Against the backdrop of its unique island beauty, it is a place where harmony, tranquillity and Nature at its very best will conspire to leave you with the memories of a lifetime.

115

Bird Island Lodge Seychelles The Seychelles is known as one of the most luxurious holiday destinations in the world, but it’s not all about the big expensive hotels.

“ The most phenomenal is

the sooty tern colony when at its peak. Visitors come from the world over just to witness this spectacle.”

W

hilst island hopping around this extraordinary archipelago, you’ll discover that the Seychelles is rich in history, in culture, is abundant in nature and offers visitors some of the best beaches in the world.

Each and every island has it’s own charm but one of the most compelling is Bird Island. Even as the plane comes in to land, guests are greeted by incredible viewsamazing hues of the blue ocean and the whitest sandy beaches, leaving one with a sensation of excitement and also a state of wonder. This northern-most island of the Seychelles archipelago is only 101 hectares; a small island but the experiences guests take from here are far from this.

Simplicity is key on Bird Island. Its 24 bungalows are spacious, each with a sitting area, a large bathroom and a verandah overlooking the natural gardens. The wooden louvered windows allow the cool breeze to flow through the bungalows, ideal for those who prefer to relax inside.

A stone’s throw away is the magnificent West Beach, perfect for sunbathing or for a refreshing swim. The main lodge houses the reception, the restaurant, the bar and the lounge areas. Here, guests will also find the island’s quaint little boutique and library. The lodge’s look is typically island style, from its buildings to its furnishings, giving off a relaxed atmosphere encouraging you to feel at home.

Bird Island is an eco-lodge and safeguarding the island’s natural heritage is priority. The owners have been working hard to ensure this since the lodge’s opening some 40 years ago. Formerly a coconut plantation, the proprietors turned it into the first eco-lodge in the Seychelles and is to this day the only one of its kind.

116

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

117

Bird Island Lodge Seychelles

Visitors come to immerse themselves into the island, into nature and into the people who live and work here. The wildlife is astonishing, from the birds in their thousands to the sea turtles nesting around the island daily; a humble reminder of just how precious such places are.

118

ABSOLUTE

With an awareness of man’s impact on the environment, the family-run lodge has been determinedly educating its visitors on its philosophy through its green practices; from the solar heated water, to its fresh locally sourced creole dishes and the fact that offshore sport fishing by boat is no longer offered.

Exploring the island with the conservation officer, Roby Bresson, will open your eyes to all the natural wonders of the Island and all the conservation work undertaken by its custodians. As you kayak or snorkel in the surrounding waters you may come across the juvenile sea turtles feeding off the sea grass in the shallows or as you go for an afternoon walk, you may stumble upon the intriguing giant tortoises on their own exploits. The most phenomenal of all however, is the sooty tern colony when at its peak. Visitors come from the world over just to witness this spectacle. The northerly location of Bird Island also makes it an ideal ‘port of call’ for many passing birds, a sunny spot away from the winter weather of their homes, much like the human visitors. This allows Bird Island to become a sort of ‘summer home’ for a variety of interesting birds for a period of the year.

ABSOLUTE

Bird Island offers guests a place to get away from the busy, fast paced, modern world of today and without phone signals and T.V. connections, they can do just that.

Visitors come to immerse themselves into the island, into nature and into the people who live and work here. The wildlife is astonishing, from the birds in their thousands to the sea turtles nesting around the island daily; a humble reminder of just how precious such places are. On Bird Island, guests live, eat and sleep like true islanders.

The island is accessible by daily flights booked directly with Bird Island.

Flight Times: Depart Mahé at 10:30am (check-in 9:30am), Depart Bird at 11:20am (check-in 10:50am) with arrival into Mahé at 11:55am. 15KG Luggage allowance. Other Suitcases can be stored at the airport (for a fee).

For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.birdislandseychelles.com

119

Seychelles

Alphonse Island

As the world becomes more accessible, people are shunning commercialised hotels, resorts and destinations and seeking remote, privately owned, unique properties in unspoiled locations.

Children love the conservation walks with the island environmentalists and discovering ghost crabs on the beach, as well as seeing shoals of brightly coloured fish swim in the shallow waters of the Indian Ocean.

A

lphonse Island is unlike any other island in the Seychelles. In an era where we are digitally connected more than ever and in many cases, beholden to a technological device, Alphonse Island has purposefully created a tranquil paradise where interconnectivity is replaced with the connectivity to the pristine, unspoiled, environment and friends, family and loved ones. The ancient art of conversation is rediscovered and listening to one another becomes a joy and is undisrupted. The sounds of email notifications are replaced with laughter, the sound of the ocean as the waves gently break on the shoreline and the birdsong in the trees.

Located 400km from the mainland of Mahé and 7 °South of the equator, Alphonse Island is accessible only by plane. Accommodation is 21 Beach Bungalows and five Beach Suites, all with direct beach access and panoramic, uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean, with each decorated in hues and colours that reflect the natural environment of the island. Unlike many hotels and resorts, Alphonse Island encourages its guests to spend as much of their time as possible out of their room and discovering all the island offers. All Beach Bungalows and Beach Suites come with their own bicycles and with no cars on the island, a bike is the preferred mode of island transportation. Alphonse Island provides bike seats for babies and toddlers as well as smaller bikes for children.

Keen for guests to absorb themselves in the island lifestyle, Alphonse Island has its own vegetable garden.

120

Plump figs, crunchy cucumbers, golden ears of corn, fragrant melons, and firm tomatoes are all grown from scratch. Guests can visit the garden and choose from a wide range of fresh produce and make their own delicious smoothie. Dining on Alphonse is an experience. Beach BBQ’s, flats lunches, plated dinners and exquisite buffets are available. Freshly caught fish features on the menu. Cuisine is influenced by the Creole culture of the Seychelles and is delicious, healthy and wholesome. Private picnics, breakfasts, lunches and dinners can be arranged upon request.

The malaria free environment is perfect for families and the balmy year-round temperature of 27° makes Alphonse the ideal island escape at any time! Children love the conservation walks with the island environmentalists and discovering ghost crabs on the beach, as well as seeing shoals of brightly coloured fish swim in the shallow waters of the Indian Ocean that fringe the beaches of Alphonse. Children, teens and adults all adore exploring the waters along the shoreline in a glass-bottomed kayak and marveling at the varied array of aquatic life.

The waters surrounding Alphonse Island are outstanding for both diving and snorkeling. The PADI certified dive centre caters for children, who can experience their first foray into the underwater world from 9 years old by completing a Bubble Maker course. Alphonse Island’s PADI dive centre has an experienced team of PADI-certified professionals dedicated to ensuring the safety of divers and protecting the underwater environment while providing exciting diving adventures.

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

121

Seychelles

Dazzling white sand, surrounded by sapphire blue waters and the expanse of the sky above is simply breathtaking. Feast on a selection of grilled meats, fish and delicious salads.

For those who do not wish to dive the depths of the Indian Ocean, Alphonse Island offers guests the opportunity to view the magnificent array of aquatic life with daily snorkeling boat trips.

122

There are 24 dives sites that surround Alphonse Island, all of which are easily reached in under 30 minutes on comfortable purpose-built dive boats.

Diving into the warm tropical waters of Alphonse Island reveals a vibrant array of coral and fish as far as the eye can see. Forests of giant gorgonian sea fans, sea whips and black corals can be viewed along the precipitous drop-off and the incredible hard coral formations on the plateau are a magnificent sight to behold! The large numbers and sizes of fishes are what make diving at Alphonse Island particularly special. For those who do not wish to dive the depths of the Indian Ocean, Alphonse Island offers guests the opportunity to view the magnificent array of aquatic life with daily snorkeling boat trips.

The unique experiences that cannot be encountered anywhere else in the Seychelles, is what positions Alphonse Island in a league of their own! Sail across the sparkling Indian Ocean in a catamaran to the St Francois Flats, beyond the uninhabited island of St Francois and encounter one of the most magical and extraordinary lunch venues. Dazzling white sand, surrounded by sapphire blue waters and the expanse of the sky above is simply breathtaking. Feast on a selection of grilled meats, fish and delicious salads.

ABSOLUTE

On land, discover the flora and fauna that inhabit Alphonse on a guided bike tour with an expert conservationist, feed the giant tortoises that freely roam the island, wade out onto the surrounding flats and see the array of wildlife that exist in this ecosystem.

For those who prefer to relax, Azure Spa is a small, yet perfect tranquil haven in paradise. Azure Spa uses Yi-King organic products originating from the Seychelles, each essential oil blend is tailored to your needs and determined by your date of birth. Inspired by the island, many treatments including massages, facials and scrubs using moisturizing coconut oil, warming vanilla oil, relaxing lavender oil, soothing chamomile and invigorating grapefruit oil. Each oil benefits the body in a variety of ways, be it to relax, revive or rejuvenate the body. Manicures, pedicures and waxing treatments are also available.

Toys can be purchased, material gifts given, but what makes a lasting impact is experiences, which last a lifetime. Alphonse Island is a sanctuary for the senses, a discovery for the mind, food for the soul. It is a place where guests are at one with the environment, where peace and tranquility reign. It is a destination like no other, it is paradise perfected and this enchanting island is just waiting to be explored!

For further information or to make a reservation, please visit www.alphonse-island.com

ABSOLUTE

123

Denis

Private Island

Denis may be one of Seychelles’ smallest islands, but its impact on tourism is gigantic.

This is an island where sustainability is not a check-the-box exercise to be carried out for an annual report, sustainability is the exercise on which its business depends.

“

We wanted to bring Denis into a preserved state for future generations, as a selfsustainable island that would be impacted as little as possible by the outside world.”

D

issecting one of the immaculately presented dishes to come out of the kitchen on Denis Island can be a maddening game of curiosity.

Which components of the dish come from the island itself, and which had to be shipped in from abroad?

Considering that the Seychelles and its 115 islands in the middle of the Indian Ocean have to import 99 percent of its goods, you might be surprised to find out that on Denis, more often than not, it’s the former and not the latter.

The Masons, a Seychellois family that is largely credited with helping to kick-start the country’s tourism industry in 1972 as the islands’ first inbound tour operator, purchased Denis in the 1990s.

The island already had a small hotel on it that was opened by its previous owner, a French businessman, but Mickey and Kathy Mason had a different vision for what they were buying. It was less about going in to change the accommodation and much more about how they were going to transform the island.

“We wanted to bring Denis into a preserved state for future generations, as a self-sustainable island that would be impacted as little as possible by the outside world,” Mr Mason says.

Like many of Seychelles’ satellite islands that lie beyond the main cluster of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue, Denis had been converted into a coconut plantation during colonial times, its natural habitat stripped bare.

So the Masons took a conscious decision to restore the make-up of the original endemic forest for much of the island. It’s been a slow, methodical process that continues through today, but it was needed to trigger a cascade

124

effect of other developments along the island’s path toward sustainability.

The destruction of natural forest habitats in favour of coconut plantations did no favours for the endemic land birds that were unique to Seychelles. Factor in the invasive populations of rats that tagged along on ships and made homes for themselves on the islands, and Seychelles’ endemic birds had suddenly run out of suitable nesting spots. Many remain on the IUCN’s red list of threatened species as a result.

So apart from removing invasive flora, a bit of ruthlessness toward some of nature’s most persistently successful species also formed part of the restoration plan. Completely eradicating the rat population on the island remains one of the biggest conservation investments Denis has made over the years. The eradication of invasive Mynah birds, which competed with endemics for nesting locations, followed suit in 2015.

The eradication programmes quickly paid dividends, and the newly restored habitats have allowed endemic birds to thrive again. Denis has even successfully translocated birds not previously on the island, such as the paradise flycatcher, which had previously only been endemic to the island of La Digue, as well as the Seychelles warbler.

Tagging and monitoring endemic birds comprise just one component of the work carried out by the Green Islands Foundation, a conservation NGO with a permanent outpost on Denis to oversee a broad spectrum of activities. These include monitoring programmes for nesting Hawksbill and green turtles and research into the ecosystem of the reef flats surrounding the island, among others.

ABSOLUTE

Outreach to the island’s guests, who can involve themselves as much or as little as they like in the foundation’s conservation activities, is also an important aspect of sustainability that’s not lost on the Masons.

Because without the clients, the whole plan falls apart.

If rarity is what makes something luxurious, then Denis can certainly be considered a luxury retreat, but luxury is not a term the Masons throw around haphazardly.

The hotel’s main concourse and the 25 cottages discreetly tucked behind the beach are refreshingly simple, lending a refined elegance with contrasts of stone and wood against nature’s colourful backdrop. But no one would describe the hotel as lavish or opulent.

“In some ways, the luxuriousness of it all comes from the insider knowledge of how the place came to be,” Mr Mason says. A small lumber mill and carpentry workshop on the island converts the fast-growing casuarina trees that have been used for all of the hotel’s furniture and floorings.

There is no spa on the island, but that doesn’t mean the guests on Denis are deprived of relaxing scrubs and massage treatments. The island’s spa therapists simply come to the guest chalets, or designate a private spot on the beachfront under the trees, depending on client preference.

All of the spa products used on Denis are local, from a base of cold-pressed coconut oil and a variety of other island grown ingredients.

“Our style of hospitality should mostly reflect what the island is prepared to give,” Mr Mason says. “It’s not a decision we want to make on our own.”

The one place where you might be able to use a word like “opulence” on Denis, however, is in the kitchen.

Although here, too, there is a certain novelty that comes from the island’s principled approach to cuisine.

Surrounded by an expanse of rich tropical waters, it’s not hard to imagine that fresh fish features heavily on the island’s menus, which change daily. However, the Masons have also invested heavily in the rearing of livestock, and what began with chicken and pigs now provides the chefs on Denis an incredible palette with which to create, from duck to turkey to guinea fowl.

Meanwhile, cattle provide all of the island’s dairy, with homemade yogurt a daily staple, along with a steady stream of locally grown fruits and vegetables.

There are island-specific challenges, of course, but as much as possible, Mr Mason approaches them with islandspecific solutions. The lack of wide open grazing spaces for the cattle, for instance, is addressed by way of the island’s old nemesis – the coconut palm.

“The cows have really developed a liking for palm leaves,” Mr Mason says, “and milk production has increased significantly since we introduced that as part of their diet.”

Being able to substitute an import with what the island grows naturally in abundance is a common theme on Denis. And in some ways, it mirrors what many of the clients feel in their bones after spending enough time on the island: Denis Private Island is like an organic, sustainable substitute for today’s modern holiday package. www.seyexclusive.com/

ABSOLUTE

Fly to the Seychelles from Heathrow via Abu Dhabi with Etihad / AiSseychelles from only £600.00* (prices may differ at time of booking) to find out more visit www.etihad.com or to discover more about the Seychelles visit www.absoluteseychellesmagazine.com and download for free Absolute Seychelles magazine to ultimate guide to the islands.

125

THE PE R F EC T VENU E TO SAY “I DO ”!

Nestled in the heart of the stunning Sussex countryside, Ghyll Manor Hotel is a picturesque spot to marry.

An elegant 17th century country house hotel brimming with character and style, the traditional oak-beamed building gazes out over 40 acres of gorgeous private gardens, including a lake and a pretty summer house.

We cater for both ceremonies and receptions - enabling you to spend all of your big day in the same delightful setting, or you can choose to just enjoy your wedding reception with us.

TAILOR-MADE WEDDING PACKAGES suiting individual tastes and requirements OUTDOOR WEDDINGS AVAILABLE* in our picturesque Summer House *(May to September – weather permitting)

ACRES OF LANDSCAPED GROUNDS & GARDENS An ideal backdrop for photographs A DEDICATED WEDDING COORDINATOR from the booking stage through to completion A TRULY PERSONAL SERVICE Helping to make dreams a reality

EVERY WEDDING IS AS UNIQUE AS YOU ARE! For more information call 01293 871571 (8am – 11pm daily) enquiries@ghyllmanor.co.uk ghyllmanor.co.uk https://www.ghyllmanor.co.uk/ #GhyllManor @GhyllManor

WIN YOUR DREAM WEDDING with GHYLL MANOR & ABSOLUTE SUSSEX A prize value of £5999 A Classic Wedding Package for 65 Guests

Complimentary “Mini Moon” 1st Year Anniversary DBB for Bride & Groom House DJ Chair Covers and Sashes Ceremony Flowers Classic Floral Table Centres Classic Naked Wedding Cake Lit LED Dance Floor or Photo Booth TO ENTER PLEASE EMAIL EDITOR@ABSOLUTEMAGAZINE.CO.UK subject marked Wedding competition, with your full name / age / postal address and phone number and a short message why you would like to have your special day at Glynn Manor.

Proposed dates for the wedding to take place Subject to availability in 2019 and T&C apply see our website for full information www.absolutemagazine.co.uk

Image by Robin Bradshaw at Bullit Photography. www.bullitphotography.co.uk

Exclusive use of Hunsdon Hall, Terrace Room, The Conservatory, or The Summer House for your civil ceremony.

Two glasses of sparkling wine for each of your guests.

3 course wedding breakfast with tea, coffee and mints.

Half bottle of house wine per person A glass of sparkling wine for each of your guests for the toast.

An evening finger buffet for up to 100 guests.

Operational Manager to act as “Master of Ceremonies” Personalised place cards, table plan and menus.

Silver cake stand and knife.

Four poster bedroom for Bride and Groom.

C ASA M O R A DA FO R SALE 5 BE D RO O M H O U S E W I T H S EPA R AT E F L AT CHARL OT T E S T R E ET - K EM P TOWN £ 1,500, 000

This five storey Victorian house, moments from the sea, is available to buy. Expertly renovated by RIBA award winners Baobab Developments, this is a stylish, high tech yet comfortable family home with five double bedrooms, sea views from the west balcony, a private courtyard, spacious sun terrace and a self- contained one bedroom apartment, perfect for rental, AirBNB or granny annex.

3085 sqft . 5 double bedrooms . 2 receptions . sun terrace . self contained 1 bedroom apartment . sea facing balcony . mural by ART+BELIEVE . gaggenau appliances . control4 home control and audiovisual system . lutron lighting control . marble worktop . dinesen flooring . ultra high specification

128

ABSOLUTE

We are Brighton based boutique developers, passionate about building incredible houses that enhance the lives of the people fortunate enough to live in them. We won our first RIBA award in 2017. We intend on winning many more.

It is our firm conviction that good houses improve lives and this guides all that we do. Design drives decisions. We use renowned architects, we commission designers, be they lighting, kitchen, bathroom, interior, landscape, home automation, and it is this use of experts that allows us to concentrate on delivering the key components of ever y Baobab house – design, detail, light, space.

We recognise that many people would not consider a newly built property: this stems from the soulless, profit driven finish associated with so many developers, as well as the complete absence of imagination and consideration in the design. We want to buck that trend. We want to create properties, at all levels of size and budget, that are appropriate to the way people live in the 21st centur y. Well designed properties, both in functionality as well as aesthetics, help us lead better and more fulfilling lives. We, as developers, want to build houses that do this.

ABSOLUTE

129

CuckfieldBathrooms The Clockhouse, High Street RH17 5JX • Telephone: 01444 414 888

‘Strato’ in Wild Oak by InBani Strato an extensive modular program of minimalist shapes, the Strato Collection, allows for the adaptation of the furniture to fit each professional project.

The collection is their most versatile and practical.

www.cuckfieldbathrooms.co.uk

IMAGE

A YEAR IN IMAGE BY JIM CAREY & DAVID FREEMAN

ABSOLUTE

3 AVENUE RD

EAT

DRINK DANCE

Thirdave.co.uk 70 - 72 Church Road, Hove, BN3 2FP

2

SUSHI BAR LOUNGE

THE GRILL ROOM MORNING NOON NIGHT

TH E PE R F EC T VENU E TO SAY “I DO ”!

Nestled in the heart of the stunning Sussex countryside, Ghyll Manor Hotel is a picturesque spot to marry.

An elegant 17th century country house hotel brimming with character and style, the traditional oak-beamed building gazes out over 40 acres of gorgeous private gardens, including a lake and a pretty summer house.

We cater for both ceremonies and receptions - enabling you to spend all of your big day in the same delightful setting, or you can choose to just enjoy your wedding reception with us.

TAILOR-MADE WEDDING PACKAGES suiting individual tastes and requirements OUTDOOR WEDDINGS AVAILABLE* in our picturesque Summer House *(May to September – weather permitting)

ACRES OF LANDSCAPED GROUNDS & GARDENS An ideal backdrop for photographs A DEDICATED WEDDING COORDINATOR from the booking stage through to completion A TRULY PERSONAL SERVICE Helping to make dreams a reality

EVERY WEDDING IS AS UNIQUE AS YOU ARE! For more information call 01293 871571 (8am – 11pm daily) enquiries: weddings@ghyllmanor.co.uk

PO RTFOLIO

A

fter an amazing year in Brighton & Sussex

we have chosen to devote our normal

HOMES supplement to a collection of images

from two of Sussex's rising stars in photography.

We hope you enjoy this round up of 2018 and

that the pictures we have selected may envoke feelings from some of the great events and moments from the past 12 months.

We love Sussex we love Brighton ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

DAVID FREEMAN A year in images SUSSEX & BEYOND davidfreemanphotographic.co.uk

6

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

9

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

11

ABSOLUTE

14

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

15

16

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

17

ABSOLUTE

David Freeman's 2019 calendar that will be on sale across Brighton from October 10th.

Waterstones, i360, Pavilion, City Books, Unique Arts, England at Home, Kerfuffle and Fullertons.

ABSOLUTE

JIM CAREY A year in images SUSSEX & BEYOND jimcareyphotography.co.uk

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE

Sky Dining Spend an elegant evening dining among the stars

Conceived and designed by Marks Barfield Architects.

Sky Dining is now available for private and corporate hire.

Find out more and book at BritishAirwaysi360.com/SkyDining

GUERLAIN Oud Essentiel eau de parfum, £125

Notes Oud, rose, pelargonium

Notes Oud, patchouli, honey

FLORIS Honey oud eau de parfum, £140

Rich, powerful and woody - oud is one hell of a sophisticated and recognisable scent.

Often referred to as ‘liquid gold’, oud or Agarwood strikes with provocation.

This potent, musky ingredient is one of the most expensive and distinctive perfume components.

The actual our oil is distilled from the rare Aquilaria trees, hence the price tag.

However, its dense and intriguing aroma makes it worthy of its exclusive reputation.

Kasia X

OUD

CREED Royal Oud Spray, £220

MAISON FRANCIS KURKDJIAN OUD eau de parfum, £195

Autumn Scent

Notes Oud, lemon, pink pepper

Notes Oud, saffron& cedar wood

CARTIER Oud & Santal Parfum eau de parfum, £315

The answer is in the ingredients. Alcohol, water and oils form a primary fragrance. However, the concentration of oils is what gives it its strength and price.

Eau de Colognes

are the lightest in concentration and strength. Mostly delicate and refreshing.

Eau de toilette (EDT) gives on an average a couple of hours wear with a stronger concentration of aromatic ingredients. Perfect for daytime, casual wear.

Eau de parfum (EDP) offers extended longevity with

Notes Oud, amber, myrrh

GIORGIO ARMANI Privé Oud Royal eau de parfum, £220

Eaux de parfum and Eau de Toilette - what’s the difference?

a medium-high concentration of perfumed oils.

Perfume or ‘pure perfume’ is deep and long-lasting

Notes Oud, sandalwood, plum syrup

due to the highest concentration of aromatic compounds and essences. Pure luxury.

132

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE FASHION

ASPINAL OF LONDON Hobo pebbled-leather bag, £395

MAJE Basilta leather biker jacket, £420

Compiled by Kasia | The Styling Agency @thestylingagency

We have been blessed with a truly divine Indian summer.

Our autumn wardrobe choices offer great flexibility mixing summer pieces with the new autumn arrivals.

Let’s look at the two classic autumn colours that dominate this season's styles.

TOPSHOP Penelope zipped-front faux-leather mini skirt, £25

Kasia X

AUTUMN

COLOURS vs.

Maroon Olive

Maroon & olive green beautifully reflect the autumn landscapes. These quite neutral colours are well suited for workwear and daytime attires. Applied on vinyl, patent or leather however and don’t they become sublimely elegant?

Burgundy boots are must purchase this season.

Go fetch!

Ted Baker Jacket, £329

Reserved, £59,99

Alexander McQueen, Farfetch, £1690

One essential element for this season’s wardrobe is undoubtedly leather.

From various skirt designs to leather trousers, from classic biker jackets to bags & accessories. Faux or Eco leather is a good alternative if you’re into ethical fashion.

ABSOLUTE

Oasis Jumper, £22

Tibi Green Alexis Ankle Boots, The Outnet, £333

Compiled by Kasia Kash at stylingagency.co.uk / follow fb @kasiakashstyle

Saint Laurent Boots, Louisa via Roma, £1285

John Lewis Gloves, £22.50

133

HOT TUB HIRE SUSSEX BOOK A HOT TUB WITH US - WE COVER SUSSEX

BOOK A HOT TUB FOR HIRE IN SUSSEX IN JUST A FEW STEPS

CALL HOT TUB HIRE SUSSEX ON 01273 087 292 1

2

CALL US ON 01273 087 292

3

FILL OUT OUR ONLINE BOOKING FORM

www.hottubhiresussex.co.uk

VISIT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE

www.facebook.com/hottubhiresussex

HOT TUB HIRE SUSSEX - HOT TUB RENTALS JACUZZI HIRE - SPA HIRE - SUSSEX

Inflatable Hot Tub Hire

Rotospa Hot Tub

Monaco Hot Tub

10% off with this flyer, Quote “SUMMERFUN” when ordering

Spa in a Box

WHY CHOOSE HOT TUB HIRE SUSSEX?

AFFORDABLE RELIABLE HOT TUB HIRE IN SUSSEX

• Professional, affordable and reliable service.

• Delivery 7 days a week, flexible times to suit you.

• Our tubs and packages fit through any door or access.

• We send confirmation of your booking within 24 hours of your booking deposit.

• Full range of hot tubs for every event, party, gathering or budget.

• We carry full Liability Insurance.

• Our hot tubs are chemically cleaned prior to every hire.

• Our drivers will set up and give you a full demonstration on how to maintain the tub.

HOT TUB HIRE 7 DAYS A WEEK IN SUSSEX

FULL SETUP & INSTALLATION If you are looking for a professional company with a wide range of Hot Tubs for Hire in Sussex then look no further.

We have a wide range of quality and portable Hot Tubs to hire for all occasions, events regardless of the weather.

We provide hot tub hire to all of the Sussex Regions.

Reliable Hot Tub Hire

Affordable Hot Tub Hire

Our delivery drivers are reliable and on time.

We make sure the customer is our main priority and that all our hot tubs are maintained to high standards.

We have a range of hot tubs available for hire to suit any budget. Our hires are for weekend or weekly hire and we have special offers on.

A Range of Hot Tubs for Hire

Hot Tubs Professionally Cleaned

We have a range of hot tubs for hire for every type of occasion. We have small inflatable hot tubs to large solid hot tubs so whatever your space or budget our hot tubs will fit.

Fully Setup with Instructions Each one of our hot tubs are slightly different and require different setup and maintenance.

Our delivery drivers are trained for each hot tub and will show you how to effectively maintain and use them.

All our hot tubs are professionally cleaned before and after each hire. We use all the correct cleaning products to make sure your hot tub is like new and a new filter is used for every hire.

Extras Available We know that each hot tub hire is different. Whether its for an event, a birthday party or just for fun we have additional extras available to hire such as: Gazebo Hire, Music Hire, Party Lights and Birthday Banners.

Hire A Hot Tub For Any Occasion - Weekly and Weekend Hires Available info@hottubhirebooking.co.uk

01273 087 292

www.hottubhiresussex.co.uk

t o

Escape

t h e

F o r e s t

***** Summer holiday season may well be coming to a close, but here in the UK, it doesn’t matter if the weather is balmy, breezy or bitter, staycations continue right the way through the year. As we approach beautiful autumn, what better time to explore the country’s majestic landscape, stunning views, cosy pubs, stately homes and family attractions? If you want to flee the 9 to 5 and set out on a short break or family escape, then the Derbyshire Peak District, located in the Heart of England, is waiting to welcome you and be explored.

P

inelodge Holidays is a family business that own two 5-star award winning lodge holiday parks in the Derbyshire Peak District; Darwin Forest and Sandybrook Country Park. Each has their own individual character, are set in beautiful surroundings and are ideal locations from which to discover this fantastic area. Whether you want peace and tranquility on a romantic break, action packed adventures or fantastic local attractions for entertaining friends and family, the lodges provide the perfect base from which to explore.

Absolute Magazine were invited to take a jaunt northward and be the family’s guests at Darwin Forest, located between Matlock and Bakewell and so we jumped at the chance to temporarily swap The Downs for The Peaks!

We knew we were in for a treat as Darwin Forest is one of the UK's top holiday parks, the lodges have been awarded 5 stars by Visit England and the Park was a finalist in the Visit England Awards for Excellence.

The park has a reputation for providing facilities and

136

attractions for all ages to enjoy, and so many families take the opportunity to book a multigenerational family holiday, enabling grandparents to spend precious time with their grandchildren. In fact, there’s no need to leave any member of the family at home as they have a number of lodges that are specially designated for guests with dogs. The pet friendly lodges are furnished to the same high standards and some even include a hot tub.

Whether you are looking for the perfect place to stay for a romantic break, a family

holiday or to get together with friends and family for a special occasion, it appears that Pinelodge Holidays have thought of everything and offer accommodation to fit every tick list. Lodges are classified as either Classic, Classic Vogue, Elite or Elite Vogue and there also some exclusive lodges that are situated within the Glade and the Meadow.

All lodges are furnished immaculately and provide comfortable self catering accommodation for you and your family. Each lodge

ABSOLUTE

has a veranda with outdoor furniture for dining alfresco and for making the most of the peaceful surroundings. Lodges are available with one, two, three or four bedrooms and Spa lodges also include an indulgent outdoor hot tub where you can sink into the relaxing bubbles and completely relax. Look up into the night sky and let the stress of everyday life drift away.

Spas are available in Classic Vogue, Elite and Elite Vogue lodges and also in a number of the Pet Friendly lodges. The Glade and Meadow lodges all have hot tubs.

The Meadow is an exclusive small development of three sumptuous luxury lodges.

Each with their own unique style, the lodges have contemporary design features, quality furnishing, luxury bathrooms and are nestled within a quiet meadow next to mature woodland.

The Glade is a prestigious development of exceptional woodland lodges. The Glade offers the ultimate in glam lodge accommodation featuring stylish furnishing, luxury bedrooms and incredibly indulgent bathrooms. All lodges have large private verandas with Jacuzzi hot tub, sun loungers and outdoor dining furniture.

Absolute Magazine had the privilege of staying in ‘The Coppice,’ a development of 7 exceptional pet friendly lodges that are brand new for Summer 2018 and even include a doggy shower in the specially designed utility room The Coppice is a simply spectacular development of seven luxury pet friendly lodges designed with pets and muddy boots in mind. The

lodges all feature an enclosed spacious veranda with outdoor washing facilities for paws and boots and quality outdoor furniture for you to relax. The Coppice Spa lodges also include that all important outdoor hot tub.

If you can pull yourself away from the luxury of your lodge, no matter what the weather presents you, you will never find yourself short of things to do, be it onsite or in the local area.

The utility room has everything you need to pamper your pooch so they can also enjoy the 5 star holiday park experience.

Complete with a doggie shower, hairdryer, towels and space for their bed and

feeding bowls, your pampered pooch will love spending time in their own ‘bedroom’. Stable doors separate the utility area from both the decking and the internal living space enabling you to keep your pet safe and secure.

The stylish living space includes a quality feature kitchen complete with island, coffee machine, wine cooler, dishwasher and washing machine. With a formal dining table, large SMART TV with Bluetooth connectivity and comfortable leather sofas, the Coppice provides the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing holiday with your four legged friend. The master bedroom comes complete with Kingsize bed, TV and a luxurious ensuite shower room whilst the twin bedrooms have TVs and a shared family bathroom.

If you can pull yourself away from the luxury of your lodge, no matter what the weather presents you, you will never find yourself short of things to do, be it onsite or in the local area.

For the adults, the onsite facilities include ‘Evolution Health & Fitness’ which

ABSOLUTE

has a swimming pool, spa, gymnasium and beauty therapy and several massage suites. For the younger members of the family, Little Monkeys indoor soft play centre will provide hours of fun no matter what the weather. The teenagers even have their own hang out named the Activity Den with pool tables, table tennis, air hockey and arcade games.

137

t o

Escape

t h e

F o r e s t

If you want to give yourself a break from cooking in your selfcatering lodge, you can enjoy a coffee and light bite at the Explorers café or you can visit the Foresters bar and restaurant which has an extensive menu serving fresh, locally sourced quality ingredients. A takeaway menu is also available if you wish to dine alfresco on your verandah or in the comfort of your own lodge.

For activities the whole family can try a hand at, there is an all weather tennis court, mini golf and an abundance of woodland walks and cycling trails.

Take a hop, skip and a jump out of the holiday park and you’ll find Derbyshire has a number of adorable market towns including Ashbourne, Bakewell and Chesterfield which are all within easy reach. Many of the local towns also run seasonal markets and special events and whilst you are visiting Bakewell, we recommend you visit the birth place of the infamous tart; the Original Bakewell Pudding Shop!

The Peak District is home to many picturesque villages with quaint and quirky tea rooms and country pubs and what makes it ideal for exploring is the fact that the villages are often linked by footpaths and cycling trails which are in themselves a great family activity.

138

Pride and Prejudice fans will love a visit to Haddon Hall, which has made several appearances in the film, as well as many other period films and television shows including Jayne Eyre.

There are many great attractions and stately homes to visit in the local area that all the family will enjoy. The Heights of Abraham in Matlock Bath is a truly unique experience as you take a cable car ride high above the Derwent Valley and once at the summit, you can explore the underground caverns or simply take in the spectacular views.

If museums are your bag, then the Crich Tramway museum has over 80 trams built between 1873 and 1982 and is set within a period village containing a pub, cafe, old-style sweetshop and tram depots. The museum’s collection of trams run through the village setting with visitors

transported into the local countryside.

For thrill seekers Alton Towers, with its array of dare devil rollercoasters, is located just 10 miles from Ashbourne and for younger children Gulliver’s Kingdom is located in Matlock Bath.

Stately homes don’t get much grander than the world famous Chatsworth House that sits just a 20 minute drive away from Darwin Forest, within spectacular gardens and parkland. There are also farmyard animals and a large adventure playground for children to enjoy and a wonderful farm shop so that

ABSOLUTE

you can take home some of the Chatsworth Estate’s delicious produce.

Pride and Prejudice fans will love a visit to Haddon Hall, which has made several appearances in the film, as well as many other period films and television shows including Jayne Eyre. This spectacular building dates back to the 12th Century and has been described as “the most perfect house to survive from the middle ages”. The Hall sits majestically within its Elizabethan terraced gardens and overlooks the River Wye. To book at Darwin Forest visit www.darwinforest.co.uk

The Peak District is home to many picturesque villages with quaint and quirky tea rooms and country pubs and what makes it ideal for exploring is the fact that the villages are often linked by footpaths and cycling trails which are in themselves a great family activity.

ABSOLUTE

139

BESPOKE ART FOR INTERIORS, RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL PROJECTS.

MINIMAL HOUSE series

KOOL KATZ series canvas wall art

BERLIN print

G-METRICS series

TRUMP series

CUBAN CAR print

Schreiber YELLOW & BLACK series

EGO series

BASF C120 print

Schreiber MOVEMENT series

FLINT series

B E S P O K E H I G H - Q UA L I T Y P R I N T S & C A N VA S A R T we work on a diverse range of commercial and residential projects and to individual requests.

Get in touch and see what we can create for you. www.facebook.com/rowdy.space/

140

ABSOLUTE

140

THE KING IS BACK Sat 1 Sep

PAW PATROL LIVE! Sat 8 & Sun 9 Sep

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE OF DARTS Sat 22 & Sun 23 Sep

JACK WHITE Tue 16 Oct

CARO EMERALD Sat 20 Oct

JAMES MARTIN Sun 21 Oct

TOM ODELL Thur 25 Oct

RICK ASTLEY Sat 3 Nov

WWE LIVE Fri 9 Nov

THE AUSTRALIAN PINK FLOYD Sat 17 Nov

THE HUMAN LEAGUE Fri 23 Nov

NOEL FITZPATRICK IS THE SUPERVET Sat 24 Nov

BJORN AGAIN Fri 30 Nov

YEARS & YEARS Tue 4 Dec

DEACON BLUE Wed 5 Dec

MAGIC OF MOTOWN Fri 7 Dec

JASON MANFORD Sat 8 Dec

JOOLS HOLLAND Sat 15 Dec

JEFF WAYNE’S THE WAR OF THE WORLDS Sun 16 & Mon 17 Dec

THE BOOTLEG BEATLES Fri 21 Dec

box office 0844 847 1515* www.brightoncentre.co.uk *calls cost 7p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge

LePuy F R A N C E The perfect French getaway

S

and have been carefully decorated and equipped to create a comfortable and stylish base for your family holiday.

The Farmhouse is approached by a pea gravelled drive with ample parking spaces nearby for all your guests. Once you are past the huge and welcoming front door, this classic French gite opens in to a heavily beamed sitting room, with large stone fireplace, two large comfy sofas and armchairs to curl up in. This isn’t somewhere you will find super-modern technology and that is exactly what makes it so very charming. Although there’s a decent CD player, as well as satellite TV in case you need a dose of your usual series, the real quality to this accommodation is the fact that it feels like a welcomed escape back to a time where the simpler things in life are what counts.

The kitchen/dining room has a large rustic table with seating for eight, a dishwasher, microwave and every thing you’ll need for a good stint of home cooking. If the sun is shining, then there are ‘French’ doors that open from the kitchen on to an area for that all important summer BBQ!

et on a private former-hunting estate in rural France lies Le Puy, a luxurious retreat and escape for those seeking quality time with friends and family, surrounded by peace and quiet.

Described as ‘the perfect French getaway,’ Le Puy comprises of The Farmhouse and The Lodge, two lovingly restored farm buildings, standing proud on high ground with dramatic far-reaching views across the forests and hills of the Limousin countryside.

This is a destination promising privacy, tranquillity and plenty of space to explore.

These two charming Limousin gites form part of a glorious private 500-acre estate that is home to over 100 red, roe and fallow deer and a menagerie of other animals. The Farmhouse and The Lodge were built in around 1860 from the local granite and oak and each offer traditional accommodation with luxurious finishes, excellent facilities and, or course, a breath-taking setting overlooking the main estate chateaux. Both have stunning large stone fireplace in the sitting room and plenty of beams throughout

142

ABSOLUTE

Stairs lead to the first floor with two goodsized traditionally furnished bedrooms and the main bathroom. The two bedrooms on the top floor are larger, share a further bathroom and boast sweeping views right across the estate.

The house has been redecorated and fitted out with quaint antique and contemporary furniture to create a comfortable country house look, and the hoards of board games certainly help with creating the atmosphere!

The second building is the Lodge, which again has an attractive large living room with a log burner and heavily beamed ceiling, a jolly decent CD and DVD player as well as satellite TV. There is a separate dining room that leads to the rustic fully equipped country kitchen, housing a dishwasher, microwave and gorgeous Smeg cooker. The kitchen also has doors that open out onto an alfresco dining space.

Upstairs are three cosy bedrooms with high ceilings and lots of whitewashed oak beams, a main family bathroom with a roll-top bath, plus an additional shower room with toilet.

Both houses, although separate entities, have several shared facilities, making it ideal for accommodating two groups or families that want their own space as well as areas to all get together. On the practical side, there is a well-equipped utility room that adjoins the Farmhouse and when it comes to entertaining, there are numerous places to sit and eat. There’s also a fitness room with free weights in case you need to keep your workout routine going.

ABSOLUTE

143

LePuy F R A N C E

One of the most impressive features of Le Puy is the large newly built solar-heated swimming pool, which is 0.75M at the shallow end (perfect for the kids) and 1.5M at the other. There is a large pool terrace for lounging on and a table for al-fresco dining.

The owners have kids themselves, so they are all geared up for truly family-friendly holidays. To save you packing everything except the kitchen sink, they’ve got a cot, high chair, steriliser and toys and in the interests of safety there is a fence around the pool with a gate to control access. The estate is also enclosed by an 8km long fence making it difficult to get lost and safer to send kids out on adventures by themselves.

With this the smallest guests taken care of, it’s now the teenager’s turn. Between WiFi, a pool table, the swimming pool and the fitness centre, the owners of Le Puy certainly seem to have most things covered!

Once you have managed to drag yourself away from the sheer comforts of the farm buildings, you are greeted by a maze of around 20km of paths and bridleways to explore, with lots of great picnic spots. The estate is perfect for exploring, walking and relaxing and we’ve got a couple of mountain bikes should you wish to go cycling.

Although there are villages, shops and restaurants nearby, it’s easy to feel the 21st century has passed Le Puy by. The estate is in the commune of St Junien La Bregere, half way between the towns of Peyratle-chateau and Bourganeuf on the D940.

Peyrat-le-chateau is the nearest village to fetch fresh bread and croissants from the local boulangerie and has other small shops and amenities.

The local village of Peyrat-le-chateau is very pretty and is perfect for the morning croissant run and has several bars, restaurants and cafes. The slightly larger town of Bourganeuf to the north has a busy market day and a former Crusader castle to explore and there are two supermarkets within a ten-minute drive, to keep the larder provisioned.

The owners at Le Puy are only too glad to make recommendations for dining hot spots, having tried and tested them all and we can tell you first hand that dining in the area is always a pleasure!

144

ABSOLUTE

For those who enjoy the more active pursuits in life, then 5 minutes away sits Lake Vassiviere , one of the largest in France and offers boat trips, sailing, water-skiing or swimming from one of its many sandy beaches. If you would rather go off piste from the water, then skiing at Mont Dore can be reached in around 90 minutes.

Whether you want to just eat, drink and make merry with friends and family, explore, get fit, look at the wildlife or simply sit by the pool, this is the ideal holiday destination. Perhaps even better is the fact that it is just across the pond from our wonderful island. From our home in Sussex, just get in the car, get the ferry from Newhaven and you’ll arrive in Dieppe. It’s then a glorious 6 hour drive on beautiful motorways with plenty of opportune places to stop, have a break and take in some sights.

If you don’t fancy driving on the other side of the road for that length of time, then you can fly to Limoges from Gatwick with BA and le Puy is a mere 40 minute drive from the airport in a hire car.

For more information or to make a reservation, visit www.lepuy.co.uk

The local village of Peyrat-lechateau is very pretty and is perfect for the morning croissant run and has several bars, restaurants and cafes.

ABSOLUTE

145

Registered Charity No. 1108777 Charitable Company No. 5300691

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS

OF SAVING LIVES AND SUPPORTING VULNERABLE INDIVIDUALS IN BRIGHTON & HOVE

WHAT AN INCREDIBLE JOURNEY What an incredible journey we have had these past 20 years! As a local charity our focus has always been on the City and helping those most in need living in Brighton & Hove; whether that be young people in schools, members of the homeless community living on the streets or women facing times of crisis.

We have had an ever increasing passion to impact this City, to see all members of our community thriving and living life to the full. We would like to thank everyone that has partnered with us, supported and worked alongside us over the years. Together we can transform the City even further- let’s make our City the best it can be!

Paul Young, Founder.

CAN YOU HELP US AS WE CONTINUE TO HELP HUNDREDS AROUND THE CITY? Make a donation www.offthefence.org.uk/get-involved/donate

Buy a vital item for one of our projects www.amazon.co.uk/gp/registry/wishlist/34WQ87NMEYW51

Visit our just giving page www.justgiving.com/OTFT

Raise £ for us Whether you want to run, jump, dance, host a sale or take part in a challenge to raise money for our ongoing work, we’d love to hear from you. a

Get in touch at fundraising@offthefence.org.uk.

RESISTING POVERTY. EMPOWERING PEOPLE. RESTORING HOPE To find out more visit:

www.offthefence.org.uk

/OTFbrighton

/OTFbrighton

design that resonates.

design | art direction | consulting | art phone. web. facebook. twitter.

0771 20 43145 petehayward.design facebook.com/designbrighton @DesignBrighton

publishing | advertising | digital | music Created by Pete Hayward info@southbeachmedia.co.uk www.southbeachmedia.co.uk www.facebook.com/designbrighton/

COME INSIDE No. 32

*NEW MENUS NOW BEING SERVED*

www.no32dukestreet.com 32 Duke Street, Brighton 01273 773388 Follow us on

148

ABSOLUTE