BRITISH Aug 14
Gandys
CELEB FOOTWEAR
ET K C PO ndon Lo n i e d a by M Louise ’s a e e s l Che ward Pag & Ed
Calling all FOODIES p64
@BritishMODE
britishmodemagazine.co.uk
Youtube: BritishMODETV
Editor-in-Chief Gabriella Enriocco
Editor’s PA Sophia Moretti 07914962760 Fashion Editor
Moira Valenti
Features Editor
Isabelle Porteous
Beauty & Fitness Editor Chloe Taylor
Bridal Editor
Emily Williams
Columnists
George Watts Belinda Chorley Vicki Lord Kelly Millar Suzanne Bernie Susan Yates
@BritishMODE
britishmodemagazine.co.uk
Youtube: BritishMODETV
Writers
Kirsti Reid, Amy Callaghan, Christine Hulme Mia Thomas, Safia Nazari Maggie Reid, Chelsea Miller
Art Director
Siobhan O’conner
Photographer
Claire Berry
International Presenter Ileana Madarnaz
International Videographer Lizbella Molina
HR Manager Samantha Roberts Sales Team Vicoria Hewitt Anna Wilson
Contents Regulars
Cover Look
10 Editor’s Letter 26 Fashion Loves
Featured 12 Pocket London 54 Gandys, A Brand with a Heart
Fashion, Womens 20 Accessorise with Valentino 22 Naturalistic Hues 24 Ohh Meowwwww! 26 Fashion Loves 32 Cuff Me 34 Editorial 48 Maryling
Photographer: Ruth Rose Art Director: Maya Finkelstein Amrami Designs by Pocket London MUA/Hair Stylist: Olivia Newman-Young Model: Bruna Meneghetti
Reviews 52 Tried & Tested, Beauty 62 Aumbry, Art of Fine Dining
Travel 58 The Healing Magic of India Column
Philanthropy 57 Orphans for Orphans
Le D Autumn 14
www.kale
Debut n/Winter 4/15
exandra.co.uk
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EDITOR’S LETTER As a lover of heritage wear and earthy hues which glorify and stand to replicate the exquisite tones solely found in nature, this month’s issue was particularly interesting to both compose and to edit. From updated splashes of leopard print which best serve to accessorise a neutral monotone ensemble, to graphical prints featuring animal silhouettes & luxurious exotic furs, this year’s autumnal, seasonal fashion is nothing less than a magnificent meshing of the finest quality materials and design influence. This month’s main fashion features focus on upcoming brand Pocket London and international celebrity favourite footwear label, Gandys. With both brands placing a specific focus on ‘giving back’ and philanthropic efforts, we are delighted to be able to highlight their current collections and overall ethos. Editorially we feature the work of the remarkably talented photographer J. Tuliniemi who photographed friend to the publication and stunningly beautiful model Chloe-Jasmine Wichello. We close by transporting our readers from the mountainous regions of India to a glorious well-being retreat reviewed by columnist and international CEO Kelly Millar, back to Britain in the heart of Manchester for a review of one of this country’s most exquisite restaurants. As always, enjoy this month’s issue and do be sure to tweet us @BritishMODE or by using #BritishMODE
Gabriella Enriocco
Gabriella Enriocco, Editor-in-Chief 11
FEATURED
www.pocket-london.com
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ondon’s edgy, eclectic, unique flair for street style is widely envied. Its global reputation for bold, daring and iconic styles being evident at each seasonal Fashion Week; a clear thread which seeds the DNA of Pocket London. This stand-out British brand, created in 2012, draws directly on this ‘mix-it-up,’ unafraid London Girl style to create something original and distinctive. Co-founders and university friends, Louise Thompson of BAFTA award winning Made In Chelsea fame and Edward Page have a shared design vision; to create a distinctive British jeans brand, where the pocket flags up the brand. The Made In Chelsea star is determined to balance her studies, shooting for the programme with developing the brand. Edward is key to moving the business forward whilst Louise completes her studies; this is a duo which really works. Pocket London is aimed at 2035 year olds who want something bold and British, who like to express their creativity through clothes, by extension expressing their lifestyle and the culture of the city. The brand seeks to bridge the gap between high street and designer prices. The defining features of the first collection are their slim fit women’s jeans in block colours with the contrasting colour pockets; a Men’s collection is in the planning. The SS14 collection saw a shift in focus to pastel colours with contrasting panels.
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Ignite Delight Desire Fire
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. . . .
Founders Louise (De Courcy) Thompson & Edward (Max) Page 17
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ith a fresh palette, the upcoming collection furthers another of Pocket London’s objectives, to have seasonal collections of jeans as well as capsule collections throughout the year. Collaborating with gifted Israeli fashion designer and print artist, Maya Finkelstein Amrami, has resulted in wonderfully bold, mixed monochromes alongside full colour graphic prints named, “The Spirit of London.” The collection uses hand drawn illustrations and includes a wider range of clothing. There are printed jeans, jackets, Lycra bodycon dresses, bomber jackets (as featured on the cover), cotton unisex jumpers, leggings, T-shirts, sweatshirts, track suits and joggers. The spirit of London palette would suggest Amrami draws design inspiration from the dynamic colour palette and forms of abstract expressionism, pop and street art; the collection blends the abstract with animal and other motifs. Pocket jeans come in both stylishly monochromatic varieties as well as in colour with print designs such as the Maxy, Maya and Lewlew along with a black and varied pocket combo. Also housed within the collection are stunning black and white jeans with matching ‘crop’ jacket and a Neo-Classic jeans jacket in maya and maxy. Of the collection, the black jeans and Mesh Combo simply smoulders. The range has been extended with the inclusion of a unisex Bomber Jacket (featured on the cover), cotton jumpers (also in Bat cut), printed T-Shirts, Allover Sweatshirts and Leggings. As the brand strikes out with their unequivocally eye-catching print designs they are grabbing the attention of the city’s fashionistas as well as a growing international clientele as they expand overseas.
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Pocket London donates £1 from every pair of jeans sold to the Jeans for Genes Day. Prices range from £55-150.00
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ACCESSORISE
leopard print, here at British MODE we are absolutely enamoured with exquisite designs which incorporate the silhouette or graphic of the animal itself.
eagle print, or this oxidised silver claw ring from Henson, featuring a crown set pearl and a hand carved design.
An outfit is simply incomplete without the adornments; whether that be a beautiful silk scarf, such as the one (pictured right) by Valentino, featuring a mirrored
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est styled as a statement piece to maintain balance within an ensemble, this 100% silk scarf from Valentino is the ideal choice for those demanding versatility, quality and careful craftsmanship. Serving as an alternative to patterned designs, the mirrored eagle print is symbolic of perspicacity, power and freedom.
ne of the most universally flattering trends for aw14 is nature prints such as fluttering leaves, feathers and the beloved animal print. Though To purchase either of many of you may be the featured pieces visit imagining updated farfetch.com
Valentino Garavani eagle print scarf ÂŁ220.76
Henson claw ring ÂŁ290.15
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These lovely beige gabardine technic shorts feature a button & zip fly, side seam pockets & a belted waist.
Carven gabardine technic shorts £479.57
Naturalistic Hues
Earthly tones and easy-to-wear colours which mimic the beautiful, natural hues of nature are timelessly chic. This Brunello Cucinelli necklace is stunning when teamed with Carven’s beige shorts. Opt for an entirely monotone look for daytime wear.
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Brunello Cucinelli layered petal necklace £647.02
Etro geometric trousers £224.92
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or a truly sophisticated look, try this perfect pairing of forrest green tailored trousers with this luxurious fox fur necklace from McQueen. £966.38
Maison Martin Margiela split ring £4,218.91
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h h O Meowwwww! Roberto Cavalli leopard ring ÂŁ312.39
D&G Small 'Sicily' leopard print tote ÂŁ742.42
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Roberto Cavalli tiger earrings £491.50
Giorgio Armani leopard print slippers £415.69
W Valentino Garavani 'Rockstud' leopard print pumps £763.15
ith the highly stigmatised leopard print being a major trend for aw14, we share our favourite pieces alongside a selection of accessories to make you feel equally as feline.
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Loves fashion Lanvin crystal earrings £284.52
Giuseppe Zanotti Design crocodile bracelet £1,130.00
CHAINS &. DSQUARED2 curb chain buckle belt £195.77
Alexander McQueen scale chain sandals £1,038.59
Maison Martin Margiela multi chain cluster ring £270.00
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s
Sophie Hulme Chain Mini Envelope Bag £395.00
DSQUARED2 chain link necklace £162.44
Gucci embellished key chain £120.79
Fendi logo detail bangle £230.00
Lanvin chain hat £437.35
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Mykita 'Jim' aviator sunglasses £249.08
Phillipp Plein skinny jeans £416.52
Fendi mini ‘2Jours’ tote £1,451.65
Valentino Garavani 'Rockstud' pumps £569.88
Moschino quilted calf leather cap £262.41 28
Philipp Plein denim shirt dress £727.25
3.1 Phillip Lim bobble knit jumper £327.66
Valentino Garavani 'Rockstud' ballerinas £415.00
Salvatore Ferragamo classic satchel £1,241.24
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Alexander McQueen double wrap skull bracelet £215.67
Maiyet asymmetric fringe skirt £875.54
Y-3 faux fur backpack £449.84 Moschino peace sign 5s iPhone cover £29.16
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Mykita & Bernhard Willhelm 'Daisuke' sunglasses £475.43
Andy Farrow Montana Ring £290.00
Faliero Sarti 'Gram' scarf £392.87
Jessica Choay Confession Collar £90.00 Versace 'Signature' ankle boots £696.79
Linda Farrow 'Linda Farrow 292' sunglasses £629.78 31
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CUFF ME.
With such a focus on accessories this month how could we possibly omit aw14’s hottest trend, the cuffs. Oversized and chunky they’re undoubtedly a statement piece for those feeling bold and fearless. Embrace androgyny by spicing up a casual ensemble with luxury women’s cuff-links from brands such as Wolf London. For a more daring look, feel inspired by Chanel’s metallic cuffs (as seen on the catwalk) or wrap your wrist in Henson’s edgy barb cuff.
Henson 'Barb' wrap cuff £1,221.81
DSQUARED2 studded bracelet £187.44
Maison Martin Margiela oversized cuff £970.53
McQueen logo print bracelet £203.23
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Photography: J. Tuliniemi Designs: Cristina Adami Jewellery: Jaqueline Brill Model: Chloe-Jasmine Whichello MUA/Hair: Anitka Kwiat 34
DIVINE
butterfly
Model wears a Cristina Adami Cape halter neck dress
Model wears Cristina Adami Stretch corset with a hand embellished vintage lace Silk georgette long skirt, bespoke organic wired 'Willow' necklace and hand beaded Maltese antique lace bracelet by Jacq Brill
Model wears Cristina Adami Organza ballerina dress with an organza vintage lace cropped jacket and bespoke wired floral ‘Sofia’ necklace by Jacq Brill
Model wears Cristina Adami Halter neck dress with a vintage lace embellished obi belt, bespoke pink & pearl ‘Amelie’ necklace and bespoke vintage pearl charm ‘Pearly Queen’ bracelet by Jacq Brill
Model wears Cristina Adami Halter neck dress with a vintage lace embellished obi belt, bespoke pink & pearl ‘Amelie’ necklace and bespoke vintage pearl charm ‘Pearly Queen’ bracelet by Jacq Brill
I am timeless
Model (pictured left) wears Maryling Monochrome Chunky Wool Jumper. Model (pictured right) wears a white fox fur collar waistcoat by Maryling
Images provided by Maryling
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Maryling
fter a lovely ss14 collection comprised of a multi-tonal blue colour palette set against creams and ivories, Maryling present an interesting take on aw14. Pictured above, our favourite two pieces from the autumnal collection, playing on the much loved geometrics trend whilst infusing elegant hints of fur throughout.
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Fashion Editor Moira Valenti brings us this month’s Tried & Tested
CLINIQUE LASH POWER FEATHERING MASCARA SCORE
****
This mascara comes in a sleek and neat silver coloured tube with a nice shiny silver lid; it’s great for that smaller handbag or make-up bag, so you needn’t leave home without it. The wand too is neat with an almond shaped tapered brush, perfect for lifting the lash from root to tip. I tried the black onyx shade. It was great for creating a lovely dreamy feathering effect. There’s nothing heavy about this mascara, applied well it emphasises even small lashes. I really like this mascara because not only did it lengthen and volumise in one coat, it looked good hours after application. It’s strong points were that there was no flaking, build-up, smudging or smearing, even after being caught in a deluge, getting dripping wet; there was no running nor panda eyes! Great! This one is going with me to the beach as my holiday ‘must have.’ At the end of the evening I found it easy to remove with little mess. This mascara is a winner and a staple of my make-up kit. 52
Tried & tested
£18.00
JANJIRA THAI LIME & GINGER SUGAR MILKY BODY SCRUB
£32.00
SCORE **** Whether you’re suffering from acne or simply searching for a way to buff your body beautiful, Janjira have the answer. This intensely creamy, highly fragranced product infuses avocado, almond and argan kernel oil with refined sugar to exfoliate, enhance, smoothen and brighten the skin. Having trialled this product over a period of months I’ve noticed a huge improvement in the tone and condition of my skin, with dark spots dramatically faded with regular use 3 times per week - an absolute must have item!
DR. LEWINNS LINE SMOOTHING COMPLEX S8 FOR EYES
£41.00
SCORE **** This eye cream applies easily with a lovely silkily smooth texture. Lightly fragranced, a single dab will sit under the eye area, without drying or being oily, then once patted in it is well absorbed. This is a line smoothing complex formulated for fine lines around the delicate eye area. You should notice a smoothing effect with regular use. I found the product worked well if layered; allow it to be absorbed and then reapply for an extra moisturising and a lightly plumping effect. On more mature skin, within 3 hours some dryness and ‘pulling’ was visible under the eyes, requiring a re-application to keep the area moist and plumped. It may be that this product would be most beneficial in your anti-aging armoury whilst any lines are fine and not well established. 53
FEATURED
gandys A Brand with a Heart
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Gandys is a revolutionary designer brand using fashion as a force for a good cause. People are going wild for the youthful spirit of Gandys and they are now recognised across London as the accessory to be seen in. These flip flops and the ethos behind them are turning heads and showing up on feet everywhere. Gandys success is growing on a global level with Gandys launching in America with top leading Fashion Brands.
www.gandyflipflops.com www.gandysfoundation.com 54
With such a glorious British summer as this, what better time to get hold of the seasons ‘must have,’ designer-led footwear, Gandys Flip Flops. Not only do they feel and look great, with the Gandys brand you know you’re contributing to something special and meaningful at the same time. The dream-made-reality began with a moment of sheer genius for Rob Forkan, one half of the brother duo which is Gandys. Awaking one morning at a music festival, Rob had the feeling of having “a mouth like Gandhi’s Flip-Flop!” Right
there and then the whole concept was set in train with Rob and Paul drawing on their formative life experience for inspiration.
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and experience life at first hand. Tragically, Kevin and Sandra lost their lives in the Tsunami which hit Sri Lanka on Boxing Day of 2004. Somewhat miraculously Rob, Paul, Mattie and Rosie survived, having to fight for their very survival and find their way back home to England. Returning to England they were supported by their elder sister, finished their education and planned to travel again, with a view to helping other orphaned children around the world.
aving travelled the world as youngsters, literally in flip flops, the brothers believed in the product driving their dream. They decided to use a percentage of any profits to build orphanages for orphans in honour of their late parents, Kevin and Sandra. Back in 2001 with their children alongside them, Springing naturally from the the Forkans set off across Gandys dream and focus the world to both volunteer arose the Gandys FoundaArticle by Moira Valenti
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tion, set-up on the wonderful “orphans for orphans” principle in 2013. The brothers are building their business driven by a vision; to create a sustainable social enterprise aimed at transforming the lives of children in need around the world. The Foundation receives 10% of the profits so that orphans can be provided with the basics: nutrition, shelter and education. Through their enterprise, Rob and Paul have helped orphans in India and Sri Lanka and plan to open orphanages around the world; they are opening their first this year. Gandys Flip Flops are to be seen all around London and on the feet of the hottest celebrities. Sir Richard Branson has had the Necker Red
Flip Flop named after his Island, where he stocks them. Princes William, Harry and Kate Middleton all have their own Gandys as does Jamie Oliver and Jessica Alba, not to mention One Direction.
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he range covers “Men, Women and Youth” in bold, dynamic colours and designs. Distinctively Gandys there’s a design to suit almost every mood and occasion. The price tag ranges from £1830 for their gorgeous Liberty Gandys. The Men’s range runs through solid colour to combat, Leopard print and the eye-catching Serge 4 Gandys collection; London’s very own, Ollie Proudlock’s Serge DeNimes brand. The women’s range includes Originals, Glit-
ters, very much on-trend, Leopard, Printz, Serge 4 Gandys, Studs, with that rock chic vibe and Liberty. Gandys goes from strengthto-strength, launching in the US with top fashion brands and to top it all, Rob and Paul received an invitation to Buckingham Palace this July from HRH The Queen for the launch of The queen’s Young Leaders Program. This is a unique initiative designed to enable young people aged 18-29, from all 53 countries of the Commonwealth, to step up as leaders. It is envisaged that they have the capacity to improve the lives of people in their communities. The program aims to identify and nurture such young talent through grants and awards.
Visit www.gandyflipflops.com for pricing info & stockists. 56
PHILANTHROPY
Orphans for orphans
The
background
Themission
The driving ambition behind it is to give back to orphans and underprivileged children around the world by providing them with a place to live, an education, nutrition and health-care. The Foundation was formed in 2013 after an overwhelming demand on the part of the public to contribute directly to ‘Orphans for Orphans.’ It is noteworthy that the founders are determined that 100% of donations will go to both building and sustaining the first children’s home. The goal of the Foundation is to build the first children’s orphanage in 2014 to mark 10 years since the devastating Tsunami.
Rob and Paul Forkan’s experience of travelling the world with their unconventional and caring parents, Kevin and Sandra, has made these social entrepreneurs into truly global citizens with a well developed sense of what matters when all the accoutrements of modern life are pared away. Tragically, the Boxing Day Tsunami which hit Sri Lanka in 2004, took the lives of Kevin and Sandra and upwards of 200,000 people. These unprecedented events saw the Forkan children orphaned but it seeded a mission in Rob and Paul’s hearts to make positive changes in the lives of children less fortunate than themselves. The Forkan children were able to struggle and find their way back to the UK to be supported by their elder sister.
Get Involved:
* With every purchase of Gandys, 10% goes to the Foundation *Donate directly to the Foundation via the website *Spread the word via media and blogs * Get in touch if you wish to offer your skills to the Foundation
Visit www.gandysfoundation.com to get involved. 57
The Healing Magic of India
-Column by Kelly Millar
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TRAVEL column
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India is a fascinating land, a ly is a place where the mystery place of over a billion people and of spirit and tradition is palpaa thousand different tongues. ble, where your senses become A tradition of medical and completely consumed by this spiritual healing dating back mesmerising world, one which more than two thousand years seems to distant to that of home. is interwoven within both the history and culture. I recent- I was picked up by a driver and ly took the time to experience bound for Ayurveda Yoga Villa a wellbeing retreat in Kerala, on the banks of the River Kabawhich was indeed a transform- ni. After a rather gruelling trip ative journey; a kind of balanc- I arrived at a lush, jasmine ining of the mind, body and soul. fused, Indian oasis surrounded by thousands of acres of forest. From the moment I stepped I was greeted by a very friendout of the airport I realised that ly staff, handed a glass of fresh India was everything I’d ever coconut water and directenvisioned it to be: the loud ed to my personal villa set buzz which fills the streets, the amongst fruit trees and flowers. intense heat which caresses the skin, strong potent scents Firstly, I had an appointment floating through the air and a to see the Ayurvedic doctor. All vibrant mix of colours. It tru- guests map out a customised 60
found the staff to be exceptional on many levels. They were extremely helpful, friendly and qualified, happy to accommodate your every wish. The Yoga instructor, Sunil shared daily spiritual insights and guidance in his classes, which I found to be very enlightening and enriching for my overall experience. I also practiced Yoga Nidra (guided meditation) and Pranayama (the art of yoga breathing) which consists of a series of breathing exercises intended to meet the body’s needs and keep it in vibrant health.
Ayurveda Yoga Villa Palvelichem, Bavali PO, Kartikulam, Wayanad district, Kerala, South India, PIN :670646 (+91) 95396 84635 (+91) 81570 11347
TRAVEL column
plan based on their individual requirements. The doctor recommended that I try the Panchakarma to start. Panchakarma is an ancient set of therapeutic treatments administered to the patient for the complete detoxification of the body. It is part of the Ayurvedic healing tradition. At the retreat, they specialise in Panchakarma, but also offer complete treatment programmes such as Rejuvenation, Stress Management, early to bed rhythm, particu- practice of yoga and meditaWeight Management, Welllarly as the sun rises and sets tion reached a deeper level. ness, Yoga and Meditation. early in the south of India. The daily schedule includes an early start, followed by deep breathing, meditation and a yoga class and you are actively encouraged to take contemplative walks along the river before breakfast. There are three delicious vegetarian meals per day that follow an Ayurvedic diet and all food is grown and picked directly from their organic garden. As the days passed, I began to feel cleansed and energised and I think a big part of it was due to the incredibly healthy food I was eating. The day comes to a close with a yoga class and meditation before turning in early. It took some time to adjust, but after a number of days it felt really good to simply flow with the early to rise,
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s part of the retreat, they offer another location in the mountainous jungle 40 minutes away named Udayagiri. The backdrop is sunlit coffee plantations, mango trees, chirping birds and the scent of wildflowers. There are only a handful of individual villas, but it is well worth the journey off the beaten track to have a taste of this peaceful sanctuary. There was something magical about awakening perched high in the mountains amongst the clouds to a blanket of mist below covering a thick forest. One of my favourite things was starting the day sitting on my balcony and watching the sunrise. I found my daily
“We believe that one should train the mind to tune into nature before looking through the corridors of one’s own life. When residing in such an exceptionally peaceful and privileged environment, our minds are able to experience perfect stillness, which then enables us to tune into the surrounding sounds of nature and feel the unity with all that is”. I wanted to experience something exotic and the people’s passion and authenticity made the experience extraordinary. I am now sleeping better, feeling fitter and enjoying compliments on my glowing skin! 61
AUMBRY Art of Fine Dining
Review by Moira Valenti & Janet Lewison
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he Aumbry is an utter revelation and suffice to say should at the very least be highlighted as a gourmet ‘outpost’ on any gastronomic map of these Isles. The choice of name is apt, closely neighbouring the lovely St. Mary’s church, it is indeed something of a ‘sacred vessel’ in the landscape of eating. Whether you are a food connoisseur or consider yourself an epicurean; perhaps with a love of honey
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fresh from the local apiary, enlivening a fine cup of iced jasmine tea, then this unexpectedly ‘hidden’ gem is the perfect antidote to the all-too-common ‘sameness’ of dining out. The reviewers had no preconceptions about the venue or the food, however there is true accord that this is great food and great dining which ‘speaks for itself ’ and should be experienced. This is certainly one of the city’s best kitchens and the plaudits will sim-
ply stack up. For the jaded, the dining experience here is life affirming; food so good we defy the world-weary not
the experience by being equally welcoming, attentive and knowledgeable ‘guides’ to the culinary excursions
to reconnect us to our sleeping sensory selves and the meal was carefully paced to maximise both pleasure and
to feel lifted and invigorated. awaiting the ‘foodie’ traveler entering this charming Located in an artisan-style Aladdin’s cave of dining. cottage, with a charmingly eclectic mix of furniture and The eclectic combination of vintage Fine Bone china, the Beatrix Potter décor and white linen tablecloths and the contrasting moodiness of curtains, the surroundings the Terry Neill photography are essentially understated; gave diners the impression being comfortable without that we had alighted upon ostentation. Likewise, the some friendly, yet enchantfront of house staff, headed ed Lakeside guest house, by Maitre d’ Siobhan, along presided over by welcoming with the exceptionally pas- culinary genii. These genii sionate and knowledgeable seemed intent upon presentfemale Sommelier, complete ing us with delights designed
relaxation. Simply put, this is a dining experience with a relaxed dinner party feel; the atmosphere sufficiently intimate so that by the end of the evening there is the distinct possibility that you may have befriended fellow diners; amidst the audible “oohs and ahhs,” perhaps feeling compelled to comment between yourselves about the delightful surprises delivered up by the gloriously inspired food on offer. The attention to detail is exemplary, even in 63
AUMBRY
2 Church Ln, Manchester, Prestwich M25 1AJ 0161 798 5841
the thoughtfully appointed toilet with its clothes brushes, handkerchiefs, hand-inked and labelled liquid soap; a space where you can refresh and pamper yourself between extensive courses. At the close of evening, after a literal labour of love, Chef Ellen can be seen chatting with diners. We discovered that this restaurant succeeded in renewing our capacity for wonder, even if just for one night, this is a marvellous restorative. Head Chef Mary-Ellen McTague and partner Laurence Tottingham have created a contemporary Dingley Dell where each dish is announced as a perfect gift, heralded for each individual client as an intrepid epicurean adventure. Every dish has its own story, even one of the cheeses is named after a Victorian Debt collector! As to their own antecedents, these star chefs served under
celebrity chef, Heston Blumenthal at the Fat Duck and Hinds Head respectively, no doubt further imbuing a flair for the extraordinary in culinary creativity. As to culinary creativity, there was nothing at all ‘predictable’ about the tasting menu; it was simply delightfully original. Ellen and Laurence have established something very special in the heart of the old village of Prestwich or ‘Priest’s retreat;’ a bolt hole during Henry VIII’s rout of Catholicism. Here too a culinary bolt hole for those who need a place to revive their ‘eating senses,’ discovering what they may have all but forgotten: food can be fun, transformative and transporting, all in one magical experience. This place is a true ‘find.’ It goes without saying that first rate dining experiences can be had with relative ease in and around London, yet this res-
Visit www.aumbryrestaurant.co.uk to find out more Menu subject to change depending on market availability, see website
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taurant puts the provinces on the map with Prestwich being an essential stop wherever you are bound. The Aumbry is unequivocally about delivering something first rate; imaginatively stimulating and satisfying to the palette, eye, nose and memory through that special personal touch; effectively putting the customer at the heart of a complete sensory experience. Dining here is in effect an ‘event,’ the mood relaxed without pretension; the stage is yours for almost as long as you need it and the meal your dazzling co-star, the chefs and staff your crew. This is nothing less than fine dining with creative excellence and flair at its core; it should be experienced once at the very least, with booking ahead being essential. Without exception, the food is lovingly and artfully crafted from locally sourced ingredients; the provenance is both known and shared with the diner resulting in a menu which is exceptionally considered, composed and prepared in ways to delight the senses and ignite the memory as well as the palette. All the senses are fully engaged as the ‘story’ behind the ingredients is shared with a delightful air of intimacy,
as if privileging something personal, even sacred. Each dish is lovingly presented: the eyes feast, tantalising aromas excite the nostrils, setting light to the taste buds even before the first mouthful. Once the food has suffused the palette, each dishes nuanced flavours and textures are nothing short of a revelation. This is a restaurant where everything is suffused with tender care and imagination; one of the dishes was presented with heated musk oil to recapture the authenticity of the original dish. Our minds and our taste buds were repeatedly rejuvenated and refreshed!
at the heart of the Aumbry raison d’être. The ‘story’ behind every piece situates the dish, its historic antecedents are carefully revealed. The restaurants originality will leave you wanting more; a dining experience both individual and intimate, soul satisfying and simply superb. The staff are welcoming, warm, knowledgeable and attentive without being over-bearing. The chefs can be seen at work, intensely focused on the creative process. Here the diner leaves satiated on many levels, with a new found respect for what dining out might be; pleasure through the power of complete and relaxed imt times, one felt mersion into a world of taste. almost dizzy with the story- Opened in 2009 and listed telling zest of in the Michelin Guide, the the lovely staff whose flair Aumbry has gone on to refor their part in this care- ceive a host of accolades fully orchestrated feast, such as winner of Restaurendered a rainy Saturday rant of the Year, in both evening a very special oc- 2010 and 2012 (Lancashire casion indeed. The whole Life and Manchester Food restaurant was alive with and Drink Festival). In 2013 appreciative sighs for over it was voted 8th best resfour hours and everyone taurant in the UK (Toptseemed to depart for home, able). It is no surprise then anchored once more to a that award winning Chef, lost, yet now rediscovered Mary-Ellen (herself Great capacity for childhood joy! British menu winner, 2013), Eating as gustatory pleasure, said they are going from sensory revelation and jour- strength-to-strength as ney into recollection and new ideas come on stream; new discoveries surely lies who could argue with that.
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Visit www.aumbryrestaurant.co.uk to find out more Menu subject to change depending on market availability, see website
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THE
experience
The evening began on the upper floor with its vanilla décor, chaise lounge, cottage roses in quaint buckets; perfectly shabby chic. We were served drinks, an appetizer of delightfully light choux pastry filled with delicious molten ‘nutty’ cheese companioned by a small pot of crunchily topped black peas with vinegar dressing and homemade crisps, an enticing opener. Once relocated to the dining room, seated 66
Tasting menus: 6 courses, £60 9 courses, £75
in our white stick-back chairs, at our crisply laid white linen spread table the Amuse Bouche proceeded with some light open textured homemade sourdough bread, accompanied by delicate rounds of butter from a local farm in Bolton. A bowl of fresh beef dripping arrived; the warm liquor was deliciously intense as the stock, with its smooth caramelized beef sediment, made its own case as a deliciously meaty ac-
companiment to good fresh porting! Nirvana in a bowl. sherbet was pure joy and the bread. A return to one of the whole thing a perfect palette ‘lost’ details of the English ext, the pheas- cleanser. Finally, Sherry trieating experience, enriched ant pie made its fle with ambrosia moscatel, by the glorious extracts of entrance, look- mandarin and chamomile; beef cooking. Delicious! ing very invit- a combination delightfuling; on tasting ly light on the palette with From the 6 Course Tasting the delightful gaminess came the fruity nectar-like sweetMenu, especially enjoyed through, combining satisfy- ness of the moscatel and was the Lough Neagh Char ingly with the sweet oystery notes of mandarin comaccompanied by tangy red salsify, celeriac and sweet bining with appley notes cabbage and walnut vinai- meatiness of the chestnuts, of chamomile. This menu
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grette, both delicious and subtle. Then came the Pink Fir Apple Potato Soup, the flavours deepened and layered by the home cured pastrami, Killeen, wild garlic and English truffle. The soup had a delightful frothiness with the delayed ‘hit’ of garlic truly trans-
certainly hitting the spot. Time for a small breather before the Grapefruit Posset arrived. The strong greens of the unusual celery granita looked fresh and clean with the smooth grapefruit adding the slightest tartness to balance the sweet crunch of the granita. To top it the
was not wanting in any aspect, it was blissfully good. Then of course there was the equally sumptuous and mammoth 9 Course Taster Menu. Following the lovely Amuse Bouche, came the delicious Home Smoked Mackerel with roast celeriac, pickled beets and mus67
“Nirvana on a plate”
*****
tard cream. It looked a delight and didn’t fail to please the palette as well as the eye. Meltingly good, deeply rich, with the sweet beetroot puree counterbalancing the depth of the smoked mackerel and warmth of the mustard cream perfectly. The dark rye bread added a lovely touch of texture to the experience. Next up the Scallop Ceviche with celeriac, cocoa butter and tarragon. There on the plate for all the world an egg yolk, but that’s the artistry of Aumbry; it was spheri68
fied cocoa butter, which gave way under the knife to yield a subtle flavour and silky texture, enlivened by the celeriac and tarragon. Perfect fun! The Game Sausage with turnip, English truffle and barley grass was delicious, game having the depth of flavour craved in a good sausage and this was it. The turnip, truffle and barley grass an excellent accompaniment.
and delicate, a little sweet on the palette, the oyster pudding utterly tuned with the sea aster and rich depths of the Lapsang; the combination was fragrant and scrumptious. Then came the revelation, Slow Cooked Kid Goat, tender, subtle, yet with depth of flavour to delight. Served with violetta potatoes, roast cauliflower and delicious curly kale. It looked beautiful and would Enter, Roast Dover Sole, oys- convert those unsure of goat ter pudding, sea aster and to wanting it as a staple. Lapsang Souchong; sea food lovers delight. The fish, fine The delightful Grapefruit
Posset came just at the right time to lift and freshen the palette before the intoxication of desserts. The Ratafia Pudding, baked Cox’s Pippin apple and almond inspired by Hannah Glasse’s 18thC. Cookbook delivered a sweet crisp puff pastry set against the deep, sweet caramelised Pippin with almond, whilst notes of Bay suffused the custard to add fascinating complexity. The final dessert, this was the Beetroot and Chocolate Cakes with bee pollen, hazelnut, milk and honey. How compellingly egg-like it looked, the senses ‘fooled’ by the narrative of a visual repertoire of expectation. The hazelnut, milk and honey held the bee pollen as if a yolk; the chocolate cake cupping the creation whilst companioned by the delightfully blushing beetroot marshmallow. The bee pollen, honey and hazelnut sauce brought it together beautifully. When we thought we couldn’t take any more bliss the cheese selection arrived and re-awakened the senses once more, and the desire for something savoury to complete the feasting. Accompanied by oatcakes, the bespoke cheeses came in different shades of temptation, from creamy white to warming golden hues. Lord of the Hundreds
cheddar had a delightful open, slightly grainy texture with savoury and caramel notes which contrasted perfectly with Cote Hill Blue’s creamy texture, distinctive blue veins, slight
ness, whilst being smooth and buttery. This selection of artisan cheeses from award winning dairy farms will delight any cheese lover.
saltiness and smokey taste. The cheese board included the equally Moorish Baron Bigod, a silky smooth cow’s milk farmhouse brie from Suffolk. The Herefordshire goat’s milk cheese, Ragstone, characterized by its creamy smoothness and lemony notes was delicious.
restaurant which provides clients with sherbet and handmade rice lollipops at the close of evening knows about the magical powers of gastronomic time travel; and how far we all love to wander memory wise, once given any liberating opportunity! Nothing was too much trouble for the staff, and many clients seemed regulars or recommended. A gift of a restaurant brimming with pleasures. Surely Mr Pickwick dines there in spirit! Chefs Mary-Ellen and Laurence have created a gastronomic ‘lodestone,’ which is only going to grow-and-grow in terms of reputation and impact on dining in the UK.
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he other goat’s cheese, Tymsboro is a soft mould from Somerset with a distinctively dense, smooth creamy texture which imparted a herby, nutty and lemony finish. Being cheddar lovers, Hafod cow’s milk cheddar sourced from Lampeter in Wales satisfied a desire for perfect tangi-
It is noteworthy that any
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