CULINARY RESURGENCE ADVENTURES AT SOUTH LAKE TAHOE
South Lake Tahoe’s culinary scene has seen many changes this year, with new restaurants and renovations that appeal to an eclectic collection of tastes. Tahoe’s dining experiences are about the huge variety of food, the people you meet, and the locations that make it memorable.
ICONIC LAKE VIEWS AND MILESTONES
Camp Richardson Resort, celebrating 100 years, recently opened The Grove Restaurant, a nod to its rich past and original name, Copeland’s Grove Resort, (formerly the Beacon Bar & Grill). Menu highlights include a miso salmon; fried chicken and ricotta beignets and coleslaw, spicy agave, and powdered sugar; a bison BBQ bacon burger. Signature cocktail choices range from a barrel-aged Whistle Pig Maple Old Fashioned; The Kokanee made with Hendrick’s gin, house made cucumber cordial, soda, with lime garnish; and, of course, The Rum Runner.
This summer Harveys Lake Tahoe Hotel & Casino is observing 80 years and showcasing two celebrity chef restaurants: Lisa Vanderpump’s Wolf by Vanderpump which opened in April, and Gordon Ramsey’s Hell’s Kitchen that just opened an expansion with 56 additional seats, new bar, and new entry due to overwhelming popularity.
As guests enter Wolf, a magical realm unfolds, transporting diners to a surreal setting, similar to outside under trees – a scene filled with twinkle lights, straight from a romantic fantasy movie. Popular items include goat cheese balls, smoked bourbon boneless bites , Wolf signature double smash burger, paired with Vanderpump Frosé, Sheep’s Clothing, Pumptini, or Peter Rabbit a Herb Garden Margarita.
Locally owned, Elements Eatery & Bar opened this summer, and provides Mexican-American fusion with chilaquiles, avocado toast, and sourdough pancakes for breakfast, and tacos, burgers, pastor reuben, enchiladas and Mexican hot dog (bacon-wrapped with grilled onions and home-made special sauce) for lunch and dinner. Chef Gabriela Chavez has put her years of experience and passion for food into the menu and most sauces are made in-house. Must-try items include their cold-pressed juices (add alcohol if desired) –which originated as a juice stand at the local Farmer’s Market in nearby Meyers–and the fried chicken sandwich. Also, try morning yoga on the outdoor lawn or sip cocktails and dance to a live DJ under the
Maggie’s, inside of the brand new Desolation Hotel highlights a slow braised short rib with crispy polenta cake, broccolini, short rib jus, and micro greens as well as a grilled octopus with quick pickled cucumber frisee salad, lemon cilantro oil, grilled lemon wedge, micro sorrel. Clara’s Got Kick is the most popular cocktail – a spicy combination of reposado tequila, honeydew & jalapeno housemade sweet & sour fresh jalapeno or Thierrys lemon & berries featuring Meyer Lemon and lemon infused vodka, like an adults strawberry lemonade. Fun fact: all of their cocktails are named
CONRAD MALDIVES RANGALI ISLAND WELCOMES MATAI GILROY AS THE NEW COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is delighted to announce the appointment of Matai Gilroy as its new Commercial Director.
With over two decades of experience in luxury hospitality, Matai brings a wealth of expertise and a proven track record in sales and marketing. Originally from Tahiti, Matai has a distinguished career working with some of the most prestigious luxury resorts across the Maldives, Thailand, and beyond.
His most recent role was Director of Sales & Marketing at The Sukhothai Bangkok, where he successfully repositioned the resort, significantly increasing average daily rate and achieving notable segment redistribution for leisure.
Matai held similar leadership positions at Raffles Maldives Meradhoo and Niyama Private Islands Maldives, where he consistently drove revenue growth and established effective marketing strategies.
Thomas Hoeborn, General Manager of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island said: “We are excited to have Matai join and lead our Commercial team. His sound leadership and expertise in luxury hospitality will undoubtedly enhance our commercial efforts and support our ongoing journey to redefine luxury in the Maldives.”
In his new role at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, Matai will be responsible for driving the resort’s commercial strategy, overseeing all aspects of sales, marketing, and revenue management. His deep understanding of the luxury market and his innovative approach to digital marketing and sales strategies will play a pivotal role in enhancing the resort’s market presence and achieving its strategic goals.
“I am thrilled to join the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island team during this exciting time of brand repositioning,” said Matai. “
The resort is known for its unique blend of luxury and innovation, and I look forward to contributing to its continued success and ensuring that our guests enjoy the exceptional experiences that Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is known for.”Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is an idyllic island paradise nestled in the South Ari Atoll, renowned for its abundant flora, fauna and marine life. The resort features 151 beautifully designed beach and over water villas and is home to The Muraka, the world’s first undersea residence. The Muraka is a unique three-bedroom, two-level residence with a master bedroom submerged over 16 feet below sea level.
A leader in world-class dining, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island is a pioneer in the country’s gastronomy scene – the resort opens Ufaa, the country’s first authentic Chinese restaurant helmed by celebrity chef Jereme Leung, as well as the world’s first undersea restaurant –Ithaa. Sitting five meters below the surface of the Indian Ocean, Ithaa offers 180-degree panoramic views of the vibrant coral gardens.
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island seamlessly blends adventure and relaxation, offering a range of oceaninspired activities. Guests can embark on unforgettable Whale Shark and Manta Ray excursions or partake in sustainable initiatives like coral restoration. The resort caters to all ages: adults can enjoy guided snorkeling tours and a variety of exhilarating water sports, while children and teens have access to the Majaa Explorers Hub, complete with a splash park, and the Furaavaru Teens Club.
For wellness seekers, the resort boasts two awardwinning spas: The Spa Retreat, located 100 meters off the main island, and The Over Water Spa at Rangali Island, featuring treatment rooms with glass floors for viewing the vibrant coral reef below.
£400,000 padel venue The Hook Club opens at Mottram Hall – the north west’s premier padel experience
A new era of padel has arrived in Cheshire with the opening of The Hook Club at Mottram Hall. Set inside the immaculate landscaped grounds of Mottram Hall Hotel, The Hook Club opened its courts on July 25th offering an unrivalled location to play padel and socialise.
Developed and installed by UK Padel Courts, the £400,000 padel venue is set to be a landmark destination for padel players of all abilities. The Hook Club, which is named after the padel shot ‘El Gancho’, instantly adds quality and a new dimension to the UK’s padel scene. The venue is open to anyone with a passion and interest in padel, with bookings via the padel booking app Playtomic
The venue boasts three world-class Superpanoramic padel courts designed and manufactured by Spanish-based Padelgest, providers of the first courts to the World Padel Tour. The Padelgest Superpanoramic court is a professional standard court that provides a superb playing experience, with unobscured views from the side and rear of the court.
The excellent playing facilities are complimented by a luxury, fully licensed clubhouse to add to the pre and post-match experience. Players and visitors can enjoy the heated patio area, the integrated sound system and a fitted changing area.
Nestled in the leafy grounds of the Champney-branded hotel, The Hook Club is completed with meticulous landscaping, Cheshire railings, and 25 dedicated parking spaces.
Players of all abilities can benefit from The Hook Club’s top class coaching academy, which boasts a quartet of coaches. Jon Cain is joining as the club’s coach coordinator. He is joined by club padel manager Joanne Patterson and padel professionals Sam Brown and Mike Rouse.
The Hook Club is the first venue from The Padel Group. Morgan Davies, director, said: “Our primary aim was to create a padel club that offers an unmatched player experience.
The Hook Club will be open from 6am-10pm Monday to Friday; 7am to 9pm on Saturdays and 8am to 8pm on Sundays.
“We have invested a significant amount in this project to ensure that The Hook Club stands out on the UK padel scene. I am very proud of what we have achieved in the beautiful surroundings of Champneys Mottram Hall. Padel is a sport that’s here to stay and we have created a fantastic environment for players of all abilities to play padel and socialise.”
For the latest updates, events and news from The Hook Club follow on Instagram or visit the website.
Turks and Caicos is proving to be exceptionally popular with Caribbean visitors so far this year
Tourism in Turks & Caicos has experienced a remarkable first half of the year. According to recent data, the Turks and Caicos Islands welcomed close to a million (998,854) air arrivals and cruise visitors in the first six months of 2024.
Additionally, occupancy rates have surged to 87%, now the highest in the Caribbean region. Wymara Resort + Villas – an independently-owned, ultra-luxurious Caribbean sanctuary –is seizing the moment with a series of strategic investments to continue to meet (and exceed) guest demand.
Having debuted the Caribbean’s first ocean pool in 2023, the resort is now introducing its first six-bedroom villas, and a new oceanfront restaurant at its private beach club. At the main resort, a newly configured one-bedroom penthouse available to book from now means that uninterrupted views of Grace Bay Beach are no longer the preserve of those on larger group or family holidays.
Located in the coastal residential region of Turtle Tail, on the south coast of Providenciales, a short seven-minute drive from the main resort is Wymara Villas + Beach Club. Renowned for offering some of the finest vistas on the island, this secluded property will soon launch three spectacular 6-bedroom villas.
The new residences will join the resort’s offering of 1, 4, and 5-bedroom modern-design masterpieces.
The first new villa will be completed in August and available soon for vacation bookings.
Featuring expansive living spaces, state-of-the-art chef’s kitchen, private infinity pools, direct ocean access, and six well-appointed bedrooms each with its own ensuite, these new villas will exude modern elegance and bespoke Caribbean design that maximises and celebrates the tropical environment.
With dedicated Villa Butler services, personalised culinary experiences, and access to all the amenities of the adjacent Sunset Cove Beach Club, home to the Caribbean’s first in-ocean pool and private beach, Wymara Villas is an unforgettable escape for families and groups seeking sleek design and seclusion. Wymara owner Bruce Maclaren teased that a new 90 seat restaurant is also in the works for the Turtle Tail property.
“Our vision for Sunset Cove Beach is to create a dynamic new culinary experience where the Caribbean’s vibrant flavours and stunning ocean views converge,” says Bruce. “This stunning new venue is set to redefine seafront dining, offering guests an unforgettable journey through taste and sunset vistas, when we launch in early 2025.”
NEW PENTHOUSE DESIGN
Also new this summer, Wymara is introducing a One Bedroom Penthouse Suite, perfect for couples. At the main resort, a newly configured one-bedroom penthouse available to book from now means that uninterrupted views of Grace Bay Beach are no longer the preserve of those on larger group or family holidays.
Set over 186m² and bathed in natural light thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows, Wymara’s new penthouse design seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living, with serene decor placing the focus firmly on the stunning white sands and crystal-clear waters beyond.
Smith & Co - Born From A Passion For Design.
Introducing a bathroom brand with a focus on quality, design and affordability, aimed primarily at the contract hospitality sector but available to all projects large and small alike.
Owned by Father and Son team Nick and Chris Smith, the vision with Smith & Co. was to create and present, in an easily specified form, bathroom products that tick the boxes for Designers, Hoteliers and Contractors alike. The mantra being - well designed, well priced and easily procured with the knowledge and support offered from a combined experience of over 40 years in the bathroom and design sectors.
Leading the way is the ‘Designer Collection’, a carefully curated selection of high quality resin formed bath’s and washbasins in a variety of colours that create that ‘WOW’ factor for any guest.
The centre piece is the stunning ‘Acqua Fluire’ freestanding bath with its unique carefully crafted rippled exterior emulating the calming ebb and flow of water. As with the rest of the range, the Acqua Fluire is available in a range of colours to suit every scheme. Although beautiful in its own right, combine it with a lighting scheme and you have a truly amazing piece of art.
Carrying on in the Designer Collection there are a myriad of freestanding baths and basins, also formed in translucent resin, from round to oval and rectangular to square, designed to complement each other and any design brief.
Moving into the core offering Smith & Co. has a comprehensive collection of sanitaryware and heated towel rails, selected to solve most design scenarios from classic to contemporary not to forget their easy to specify DDA wc and shower packs, all at an affordable price point.
Ticking the box when it comes to Guest comfort is the Zinc WC Bidet combo pan with its ambient lighting, heated seat and personal cleansing features operated by remote control. Once seen as an option only for the most select of schemes, the combo pan is now a must have for any hospitality project with pricing at less than a tenth of the flagship models.
Contact Nick or Chris with your requirements who
To say Nick and Chris have hit the ground running would be an understatement, to mention just a few of the projects supplied with Smith & Co…..
The new Hotel at Warwick Castle for Merlyn Entertainment – all guest rooms, front of house, staff areas and DDA facilities.
Mallory Court for The Eden Hotel Collection –a recently completed ten bedroom refurbishment of this historic Hotel and Spa.
The Other House South Kensington – Smith & Co. were very proud to supply their Zinc wc’s to this luxury club flat and apartment Hotel.
The list goes on with many commercial and residential schemes.
High Quality Bathrooms For Hospitality
Holidays are all about relaxing and destressing, and a hotel with a spa facility Is exactly what people are looking for in 2024. With most spas offering a range of spa therapies, hot tubs, holistic activities and pamper sessions, they also provide the perfect opportunity to take in the local surrounding beauty.
It’s also one of the best ways to help rejuvenate skin. Weather, stress, make-up, shaving… they all take their toll on skin. Spa holidays are the perfect opportunity to rehydrate, breathe and re-charge your skin and body.
There are so many health benefits from going on a spa holiday from:
• Improving Blood Pressure and Blood Circulation
• Relieving Stress
• Improving Your Skin
• Improving Your Diet
• Helps Manage Pain Relief
• Enhances Sleep
• Calm Your Mind!
The list is endless.
A hotel bathtub is one of the most luxurious and attractive features of a hotel bathroom. Gone are the days of just a standard bubble bath with most bathtubs now will often incorporate some amazing features that boost comfort and gives instant relaxation.
Some even have jets, arm rest, back support, temperature control and various other features making the hotel experience more high-end and rememberable.
Having a high-quality sink is very much a statement piece that can set the bathroom off. It's crucial to pick a colour that can make the room its own and ensuring overall hotel plumbing fixtures, quality, and durability.
One of the most popular designs for hotel bathrooms is the floating design, giving the impression of a clean and uncluttered space, and freeing up more floor space, while also making it easier to clean the floor beneath, giving a real WOW factor for your guests!
Café Boulud Riyadh to Celebrate the Culinary
Creativity of Famed French Chef Daniel Boulud at Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh
Seasonal menus featuring inventive twists on traditional French cuisine to mark the debut of Café Boulud in the Middle East
Classic and contemporary French cuisine will soon be on the tips of tongues, literally and figuratively, in the capital of Saudia Arabia, as Café Boulud Riyadh readies for its debut later this year at:
Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre
The buzz-worthy modern restaurant serving inventive twists on traditional dishes by world-renowned Chef Daniel Boulud will satiate a growing appetite for French cuisine among locals and visitors in the city, playing off on Saudi Arabia’s embrace of global culinary experiences that is inspiring innovation at the luxury end of hospitality across the country.
Set to be located on the Lobby level of Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh, Café Boulud Riyadh will showcase Chef Boulud’s celebration of the culinary traditions of Lyon, as well as his embrace of seasonality, with menus that change in keeping with availability of the best and freshest imported and local ingredients.
Raised on his family’s farm in Saint-Pierre-de-Chandieu, a small village not far from Lyon, Chef Boulud was steeped in French culinary traditions and the wonders of fresh ingredients from a young age.
At 15, he entered his first apprenticeship at the eponymous, two-Michelin-starred restaurant of Chef Gérard Nandron in Lyon, and by 17 he was honoured as a finalist for the Best Culinary Apprentice in France.
Since arriving in New York in 1982, Chef Boulud has established himself as one of America’s leading culinary authorities. After working as Executive Chef at the famed Le Cirque in New York City, Chef Boulud began dazzling palates on the Upper East Side of Manhattan on his own with the opening of his two-Michelin starred flagship Restaurant Daniel in 1993, followed by the original Café Boulud New York in 1998.
Café Boulud currently has locations in Palm Beach, Toronto, and the Bahamas as well as New York.
The Café Boulud brand is especially meaningful for Chef Boulud, as it is named after the original Café Boulud started on his family’s farm outside of Lyon, France by his great-grandparents. Chef Boulud’s rendition of this heritage is focused on four inspirations: La Tradition –the classic dishes of French cooking; La Saison – the seasonal specialties of the market; Le Potager – the vegetable garden; and Le Voyage – the exotic flavours of the world’s great cuisines.
The first Café Boulud in the Middle East will serve artistic offerings all its own, fashioned in collaboration with Chef Daniel Boulud and Executive Chef de Cuisine Nicolas Lemonye, who brings a decade and a half of experience at highly rated restaurants in France, Indonesia, the US, and the Middle East. Lemonye knows both the creativity and exacting standards of Chef Boulud intimately, having spent seven years working in the kitchens of Daniel in New York City and Brasserie Boulud in Dubai.
PORTRUSH ADELPHI HOTEL, NORTHERN IRELAND
NOW ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS FOLLOWING EXTENSIVE RENOVATION
Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts announced today that it is now accepting reservations for the brand’s newest property, Portrush Adelphi Hotel in Portrush, Northern Ireland, beginning 1st April 2025, with the hope to open in early 2025.
With this reopening, the hotel joins Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts, a collection of bespoke hotels located in the world’s most prestigious golf destinations owned by Adventurous Journeys (“AJ”) Capital Partners.
With a blend of old-world charm and new-era luxury, the 34key Portrush Adelphi Hotel will offer refurbished guest rooms, public spaces, and a food and beverage concept that celebrate the distinct beauty, rich history, and golf legacy of its iconic hometown. Designed by AJ Capital Partners’ in-house design team, guests can look forward to warm, rich fabrics complemented with textural layering that embodies the spirit of the nearby Northern Irish coast.
“We’re pleased to welcome Portrush Adelphi Hotel to the Marine & Lawn collection,” said Phillip Allen, President, Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts.
The property is a true community gem and will continue to offer both locals and visitors an authentic experience that pays homage to the rich history and rugged beauty of County Antrim and the Causeway Coast.
We’re honoured to continue to grow our presence in Northern Ireland and thrilled that we’ll have a fully renovated Portrush Adelphi Hotel to showcase when the world of golf once again turns its eyes on Portrush for the 2025 Open Championship.”
Nestled in the heart of Portrush, the hotel is an ideal destination for golfers visiting Royal Portrush Golf Club and is positioned just one hour from Belfast. Royal Portrush previously hosted the 1951 and 2019 Open Championships and was announced as host of the 2025 Open in 2023.
Ranked the eighth-best golf course in the world by Golf Digest and the second-best on the island of Ireland, Royal Portrush is a classic links course and home to some of the most magnificent ocean views in the game.
Portrush is located within a short drive of several other excellent golf courses, as well as key attractions such as the Giant’s Causeway and Bushmills whiskey distillery.
Portrush Adelphi Hotel will be the sixth property in the Marine & Lawn collection and the second property in Northern Ireland, joining Slieve Donard in Newcastle, County Down, NI; Rusacks St Andrews in St Andrews; Marine North Berwick in North Berwick; Marine Troon in Troon; and Dornoch Station Hotel in Dornoch; all in Scotland.
For more information about Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts, please visit: http://www.marineandlawn.com
The top luxury stays choosing Simba’s contract mattress tech
In the competitive world of hospitality, exceptional guest experiences are paramount, with a key component of this experience being the quality of sleep offered to guests. Simba Sleep, a pioneer in sleep technology and dedicated to engineering the perfect night’s sleep, is redefining luxury sleep experiences as it expands into some of the UK’s most distinctive hotels and unique stays.
The new Contract Mattress Collection features three distinct models: the Simba Pro Contract, Simba Luxe Contract, and the Simba Green Label Contract. At the heart of the collection lies the exclusive, awardwinning Hybrid® technology, ensuring guests enjoy unparalleled comfort, support, and temperature regulation. Key to this are Simba’s incredible upper comfort layers and supportive base layers.
The upper comfort layers feature Simba’s patented titanium alloy Aerocoil® springs for optimal airflow and pressure relief. They are designed to flex and compress individually, absorbing impact, creating a soothing sensation of being cradled. Localised support and weight distribution ensure that motion transfer is limited, allowing partners to sleep undisturbed by the other’s movements.
The base layers play a critical role in maintaining proper body alignment, offering personalised support and cushioning for the shoulders and lower back. For temperature regulation, the Simba Pro Contract and Simba Luxe Contract incorporate cooling graphite-infused Simbatex® foam. This innovative material draws excess heat away from the body, ensuring a comfortable sleeping temperature throughout the night.
As a certified B Corp™, the Green Label contract is Simba’s most sustainable option, which uses a natural latex layer infused with cooling graphite, Simba Renew Fibres, made with up to 75% recycled content, and a natural wool layer with temperature-regulating properties that offers comfort and deters dust mites. And, Simba’s advanced duvet tech and adjustable pillows complete every contract mattress, giving every guest the ultimate, cocooning sleep experience.
With outstanding comfort and quality, Simba contract mattresses have been selected by an expanding list of top destinations and retreats around the UK that offer exceptional surroundings, including; House of Gods in Glasgow, The Ellen Hotel in Kensington, Wilderness Reserve, an extensive collection of luxury accommodation set within 8000 acres in Suffolk, Deer Park Country House in Devon, The Lookout in Cornwall, and Room Home Stay in the City of London, and further afield, including Domaine Terra di Gaya in Corsica.
Simba Sleep has been at the forefront of sleep innovation since 2016, has over 300,000 five-star ratings worldwide, more than 60 industry awards, and has sold over 1,000,000 high performance sleep products worldwide. Simba's reputation for excellence makes it a top choice for discerning hoteliers aiming to provide the ultimate guest experience.
Stunning Dolce By Wyndham Versailles
Opens In Famed Domaine
Du Montcel Park
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts has officially opened the doors to its newest hotel, the luxurious Dolce by Wyndham Versailles –Domaine du Montcel.
Nestled in the outskirts of Paris in famed Domaine du Montcel Park, just minutes from the world-renowned Palace of Versailles. The striking 178-room resort sits on a charming estate in the heart of beautiful Bièvre Valley and opens just as the world prepares to turn its competitive gaze to Paris this summer.
Once the residence of France’s famed OberkampfMallet family in the late 1700’s, the magnificent resort has been fully renovated to preserve its historic buildings, monuments and gardens, the latter of which were originally designed by Madam Oberkampf herself.
Despite easy access to both Paris and Paris-Orly Airport—both of which are just 30 minutes by train— guests will feel worlds away from the city the moment they arrive. The hotel is a short walk from the Jouy-en-Josas Train Station.
Dimitris Manikis President, EMEA, Wyndham Hotels & Resorts:
“Staying at Dolce by Wyndham Versailles unlocks the chance to experience the French art de vivre, which enwraps guests from the moment they arrive and is reflected in every aspect of their stay —from the architecture and design, to the food, service, amenities and more. An ideal escape, it’s the perfect jumping off point for making the most of all that France has to offer.”
•Olivier Bigot, General Manager, Dolce by Wyndham Versailles – Domaine du Montcel
A Luxury Retreat in the Heart of
Versailles
A symbol of elegance, travellers can now book a stay in the stunning grounds of the upscale Dolce by Wyndham Versailles, which offers 14 hectares of gardens as well as two top-quality restaurants, a bar with a stunning terrace and a fully-equipped spa and wellness centre.
Additional amenities include:
• Spa du Moncel by Sothys, offering a relaxing range of treatments, as well as a steam room and sauna, a snow cave, sensory showers and a heated indoor and outdoor pool.
• Restaurant ‘La Toile’, featuring traditional French cuisine with fine Asian touches.
• Restaurant ‘La Manufacture,’ built around an open kitchen concept, ideal for events and set in the historic wing of the château with a modern, eclectic menu.
• Bar Le Cèdre, featuring a stunning terrace overlooking the gardens.
• A state-of-the-art conference centre with 18 meeting rooms.
• The magnificent Baccarat ballroom which is 550 sqm, making it the largest in the region.
Like all Dolce Hotels & Resorts, the property participates in Wyndham Rewards®, Wyndham’s award-winning rewards programme with over 60,000 hotels, vacation club resorts and vacation rentals worldwide.
Six steps to enhancing guest satisfaction
Guest satisfaction is at the core of the hospitality industry. This is a people-topeople business, so all hotels are aiming to have the highest performance in terms of guest satisfaction.
Those who consistently achieve high scores are more likely to generate customer loyalty and benefit from word-of-mouth advertising, which ultimately helps them boost their revenue.
I’ve always worked in operational departments and have been a mystery guest, auditor and quality assurance specialist, so I’ve had the pleasure of seeing first-hand how properties around the world are striving to achieve this. It’s why they invest so much in trying to provide all the tools and resources their teams need to attain high customer satisfaction levels.
When I started in the hospitality industry over 20 years ago, the environment was completely different. But today, with social media reviews and all the information available to guests before they even arrive, expectations are now higher than ever.
1.Understanding what guests expect
When looking at how to increase guest satisfaction in hotels, understanding what a guest’s expectations are is critical. So one of the things hotels almost always ask is the reason for a customer’s stay. That simple clue helps hotels gain a basic understanding of what guest expectations will be. For example, I’m not the same if I’m travelling for business purposes as I am if I’m travelling with my kids. I’m the same guest, but have completely different needs.
All the new systems we have in hotels that allow us to build guest profiles provide crucial information for hoteliers.
That data is incredibly helpful because it allows hoteliers to anticipate needs and prepare better for meeting expectations, which in turn helps them create memorable experiences and boost customer loyalty. The resulting higher levels of guest satisfaction can, of course, lead to increased revenue.
A good example of that is cultural awareness. It can help so much when trying to create emotional connections with guests.
2.Meeting
and exceeding expectations to achieve higher satisfaction levels
One of the great ways of meeting and exceeding guest expectations and therefore achieving higher customer satisfaction levels is through providing a personalised service.
That’s why hotels focus on personalising service, using the valuable customer information they have gained through previous interactions, purchase history and other personalisation techniques to deliver exceptional guest experiences.
There’s also a great opportunity to upsell and generate more revenue by tailoring guest experiences. Because the more you get to know your guest, the more you can offer things for which they really are willing to pay a premium.
It’s almost a virtuous circle too, because those improved financial results will give you the funds you need to create good training programs for employees, which helps ensure they are equipped to deliver those memorable experiences to guests.
3.Creating a memorable experience
Hotels can use many different techniques for creating a memorable experience for guests by personalising their stay, including leaving welcoming gifts in their rooms or offering complimentary refreshments. Often they are just little things that don’t cost much but can create a lasting impression.
However, in my personal experience, I do not remember how luxurious the hotel was or the specific services offered. I remember people. Yes, the personalisation techniques are important, but what really creates that customer loyalty are those human connections.
So of course, hotels need to deliver a consistent highquality product and services adapted to the guests’ requests. But at the end of the day, what enables them to create those memories is actually employee engagement.
5. Making use of feedback
Of course, as the saying goes, if you don’t measure something, you can’t improve it, so it’s critical for hotels to gather feedback from guests about their stays as well. This not only helps them gauge the effectiveness of their internal processes, it also helps when it comes to personalising the interactions you may have with guests in future.
Asking for feedback can be great for generating positive reviews that can lead to increased bookings, but it can be dangerous too.
For example, if you have a survey sample of 50 people and just two guests mention the buffet offer is not up to their expectations, of course you need to follow it up, but it’s not something that means you need to completely change your strategy.
Another thing hoteliers should consider is that complaints are also an opportunity to exceed guest expectations. If a guest is taking the time to ask to speak to a manager, it’s because they really want to share what happened to them.
4.The key to making a stay more memorable
When it comes to delivering more memorable guest experiences, I believe employee satisfaction is critical. If you’re happy where you are working and if you know you have support no matter what situation and are empowered, that will help you meet and exceed guest expectations.
The industry is facing many challenges at the moment and high employee turnover rates mean it’s difficult to retain the kind of talent you need to deliver memorable experiences. So from my point of view, ‘conscious leadership’ that is committed to employee engagement is what hotels need to meet those challenges.
6. How to create and maintain brand loyalty to deliver on guest expectations
Many of the larger hotel brands have different tiers designed to appeal to specific audiences and so align with their particular expectations. During my time with Westin – part of Marriott International – I was part of a program looking at how to connect its brand promise with real life across all our different programs and offers.
One of these was the value of ‘wellbeing’ and involved a range of initiatives such as ‘sleep well’, in which we provided lavender essential oils and different pillows depending on guests preferences. Hotels have genuine opportunities to customise their offer to align with certain guest expectations and people for whom those values are important will tend to gravitate towards such brands
Creating a brand identity and delivering on that brand promise helps you provide the kind of experience guests are expecting, which in turn helps boost your guest satisfaction levels if you are genuinely delivering on them. Not every hotel is able to provide personalised service and that’s mainly due to a lack of resources
Paola Waschbusch is a Rooms Division & Sustainability Lecturer at Les Roches Marbella. With many years’ experience as a manager for top brands such as Marriott, Mélia and Starwood Hotels, Paola has been on the frontline of guest relations throughout her career
Vietnamese institution Cay Tre launches a new Asian-inspired cocktail list
Cult Vietnamese restaurant, Cay Tre, are excited to launch their new cocktail menu, converting their signature punchy and refreshing Asian flavours into a menu of cocktails inspired by the bustling streets of Saigon and the rich culinary heritage of Asia.
The menu has been curated to offer guests a selection of classic recipes they can relate to, infused with unique Vietnamese twists, structured to pair and perfectly complement with the menu, from authentic snacks through to something sweet, rounding off the meal.
Each cocktail is designed to elevate the dining experience and transport guests on a culinary journey through Asia.
Aromatic creations such as Mandarin Orchards, made with Beefeater dry gin, mandarin, campari, sweet vermouth and thai basil and the delicate Tea Chaser, infused with Yuzu, jasmine tea & orange blossom are perfect to pair with snacking favourites such as the fresh papaya and mango salads, Hanoi crispy crab parcels and spring and imperial rolls
Rounding off the dining experience, the new menu showcases two new intriguing serves. One Night In Saigon seamlessly blends spices of white Penja pepper and cinnamon with bourbon, sweet vermouth and orange bitters for a citrusy lift. Plus, a reinterpretation of a fan favourite with an alcoholic Vietnamese coffee, using the typical condensed milk to create show stoppingly sweet espresso martini.
The wine list has also been extended to include whites, reds and orange and sparkling wines from all across Europe while non-alcoholic options include Saigon Lime Soda, Ô Mai Sour Plum (a traditional specialty of Hanoi, made with dried plums) and Guava Fever. A selection of sakes and plum wine and umeshu is also available.
The Key to Intelligent Integration and Control in Hotels
In the fast evolving hotel design industry, the implementation of automation systems has brought a revolution in the way we interact with spaces and services. The quest for efficient intelligent integration and control has led to the emergence of the KNX standard as a fundamental element in this domain.
This article delves deeper into how Zennio, a leading provider of automation solutions, exploits the power of the KNX standard to enable seamless communication between different systems and devices within a hotel building. By offering a centralized and integrated control system known as the Guest Room Management System (GRMS), Zennio transforms the way hotels manage and control their operations.
The KNX standard serves as a communication protocol that seamlessly connects various elements within a hotel, including lighting, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), access control, energy management, and more. Zennio's
By doing so, they empower hotels to adopt a great approach to managing and controlling their operations, eliminating the need for separate control interfaces for each system. This consolidation simplifies the overall management process and enhances efficiency. One of the standout advantages of the KNX standard is its exceptional ability to achieve interoperability between different systems.
In practical terms, this means that devices from various manufacturers can intercommunicate and work seamlessly together, irrespective of their individual specifications. This level of interoperability provides hotel owners and operators with the freedom to select devices and systems that best suit their unique needs, without being locked into a specific vendor or technology. And Zennio ensures compatibility, promoting flexibility and choice for hotels.
Flexibility and adaptability are further reinforced by the KNX standard's scalability. Zennio's automation solution is specifically designed to accommodate expansion and adaptation over time.
As hotels evolve and their needs change, new devices and functionalities can be easily added to the existing system. This scalability ensures that the automation system can grow alongside the establishment, catering to the evolving requirements of the hotel. Owners and operators can customize and tailor the functionality of the system to match the specific needs of each project, allowing for optimal performance and efficiency.
By connecting all systems and devices in a hotel to a centralized management and control platform, Zennio empowers owners and operators with complete control over every aspect of room or área automation within the building. Through a user-friendly interface, authorized personnel can easily monitor and manage these systems, ensuring optimal guest experiences, operational efficiency, and sustainability. The ability to have a comprehensive view and control of the entire hotel automation system enhances decision-making and improves overall operational performance.
Technology solutions for hotels, residential and commercial buildings
intelligent integration and control in hotels. The interoperability and flexibility afforded by the KNX standard enable the seamless integration of diverse devices and systems into a centralized platform.
In addition to centralized control, Zennio's automation system leverages sensors and actuators to collect real-time data and automatically adjust environmental parameters such as lighting and temperature. This intelligent control capability optimizes guest comfort and energy efficiency, further enhancing the overall guest experience. For example, the system can detect occupancy in a room and adjust the lighting and temperature accordingly, creating a personalized and comfortable environment for guests. This level of automation reduces the need for manual intervention, streamlines operations, and improves resource management.
Moreover, the owner can use de GRMS data to improve his operation. They are now able to read their efficiency attending the “Make up room” demands from guests, knowing when the guests make their request and when this request is attended by the cleaning service. Or they can know if average guest temperture setpoint in the rooms is lower or higher than expected, so the hotel can reduce the energy waste in the engine room lowering the consumption. Zennio's focus on intelligent control and adaptability empowers owners and operators to create customized, efficient, and secure environments that attend to the unique requirements of each hotel. By embracing the power of automation and intelligent integration, hotels can elevate the guest experience, drive operational efficiency, and contribute to a sustainable future.
Ahãma,
A
New Destination
For Nature,
Gastronomy & Wellness, Is Opening This August, In Göcek, Türkiye
In August 2024, on the stunning Göcek coastline, Ahãma will open its doors for the first time. Nestled on the white sand beaches of a secluded bay, cocooned by an 11-hectare protected forest, Ahãma reflects its natural surroundings and the rich Lycian heritage that characterises this area of Türkiye.
The ancient Lycians that once inhabited this area of Türkiye were known as the “people of light,” and the importance of light is essential to every aspect of Ahãma’s architecture and design. Beautiful and serene spaces bathed in natural light can be found throughout Ahãma. These spaces capture the “land of the light” design ethos and give mind and body room to breathe.
Design
Ahãma’s architecture was created to blend in with the natural surroundings, and to foster a sense of being connected to nature. Materials, including wood, stone and linen, and a warm terracotta palette of colours, reflect the beauty of the land and the textures of the natural environment. The grounds have been created so guests can explore the entire property comfortably on bare feet. This vision has holistically informed the interior design, down to subtle touches like curation of artwork, repurposed and artisanal furniture, as well as select pieces sourced from vintage fairs and art galleries in Istanbul and London.
Interior touches, including the tiles and kilim rugs, were crafted specifically for Ahãma by Turkish artisans. Ahãma showcases numerous commissioned artworks by emerging young talents, alongside a focal collection by Hiroshi Sugimoto featuring over 50 individual pieces with a seascape theme.
Each of the five two-bedroom cabanas and 25 onebedroom cabanas overlooks its own unique view, from serene forest to calming sea. In the twin cabana rooms span up to 1600 sq. ft of space. The spacious villa offers three sumptuous bedrooms, an infinity pool, and a private dock, with views of the local flora seen throughout Ahãma.
Brand Experience Director, Caterina Malorni, has curated every step of the guest journey, assembling a unique collection of creative talents to make every visit an unforgettable one.
Led by Natalie Garih, the wellness program will offer an immersive journey from the very first moment of arrival. Guests will be encouraged to explore secluded meditation spots in the surrounding forest and embark on a path toward inner peace and revitalization. Garih’s team expertly bridges holistic Anatolian practices with Eastern and Western approaches; with each member bringing unique expertise ranging from somatic breathwork and art therapy to
2025 will see the opening of a multi-functional Sound Temple designed by renowned Mexican architect and designer Hector Esrawe. The temple will be a venue for sound healing ceremonies to harmonise the body, mind, and spirit. In 2025, Ahãma will also welcome a wellness centre and spa, a Mezcal bar and concept store. With its marinas, sheltered bays, and access to the Aegean and Mediterranean coastline, Göcek has long been seen as a yachting destination of choice.
The arrival of Ahãma, with its focus on slow living, wellness, and gastronomy, will expand the appeal of the region, allowing guests to connect with nature and draw inspiration from the area’s abundant heritage. Traces of ancient Lycian civilisation, such as rock tombs and monuments, can be found along the dramatic cliffs and secluded bays of the mountainous coastline.
The nearest airport to Ahãma, Dalaman Airport, is 25 minutes away by car.
THE RESIDENT ANNOUNCES OPENING OF ITS FIRST SCOTTISH HOTEL
A very short walk from both Princes Street and Charlotte Square in the heart of the capital, The Resident Edinburgh combines the heartfelt hospitality The Resident is known for with a distinct Scottish warmth.
The Resident Edinburgh will be open to guests from 1st September 2024, with rooms available to book now. All 164 rooms and suites are designed for the home from home experience with mini-kitchens in every room and great natural light. Guest rooms have been specially crafted anticipating a slightly longer guest stay.
Overall, the hotel has a cultured thoughtful elegance befitting the prime location and the world destination status of Scotland’s capital city. From Double Rooms to Junior Suites averaging between 17 and 35-metressquared, the stylish rooms offer a range of breathtaking views including Edinburgh’s skyline, Edinburgh Castle and exceptional views north over the Firth of Forth.
Amenities have been carefully selected and include everything from a personal Nespresso coffee machine with complimentary capsules, GHD hairdryers for the dressing and vanity area; Molton Brown bathroom products in the stylish en-suites; a dining/working area beside the full height windows.
The Resident has the latest easy to use in room tech and free Wi-Fi solutions for simple streaming from your own devices to minimum 50” UHD TVs. The beds are bespoke designed for The Resident with multi pocket springs and luxurious mattress toppers, Twin, King, or Super King.
Heartfelt hospitality is the ethos of The Resident Edinburgh’s guest experience. Each team member will be a “Resident Insider”, meaning they will be equipped with insider city knowledge so they can be tapped into for local advice, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in what Edinburgh has to offer.
The personal touch is what The Resident is renowned for, every evening hosting an hour of early drinks for guests.
This social pause gives guests and the teams an opportunity to connect with each other and receive recommendations straight from the knowledgeable Resident Edinburgh team, all while enjoying drinks and snacks from local suppliers, including Stewart Brewery and Quirky Chocolate or Wines from Justerini & Brooks. Guest events will showcase local artisan producers and give deeper insight to Edinburgh’s culture and Arts scene.
The hotel will partner and support businesses around the city, providing guests with exclusive offers for local restaurants, bars and gyms to ensure they have access to the best venues in Edinburgh. The breakfast partner, The West End Brasserie, will offer a full breakfast offering for guests to go to. The other partners include; Cairngorm coffee, Dulse, Kyloe and attractions such as the Royal Yacht Britannia, The Real Mary King’s Close and Pickering’s at Summerhall.
The Resident Edinburgh is aware of the cultural and arts appeal of the City to its visitors. The library lounge will host a curated book collection of fascination and relevance to the city, as well as its culture.
David JM Orr, CEO of Resident Hotels Ltd, said “The Resident Edinburgh marks a significant milestone for The Resident brand, many of us in the business and especially our ownership have cherished, deep Scottish roots and a great affinity for Edinburgh and its cultural affluence.
The Resident Edinburgh brings a new offering to the visitor for the City, a slightly longer stay with the guest and our teams at the centre. The Resident has an enviable track record at ensuring the visitor whether on business or leisure can experience a home from home, living like a local but with a very light touch.
The Resident teams’ advocacy of businesses, attractions, artisans and institutions within the city will be fulsome as our mission to showcase the entrepreneur chefs’ restaurants and bars throughout the city.
“The guest experience is at the centre of our operation, and we have carefully curated a hotel that is inspired by Edinburgh, Scotland and the people who live here. We are delighted to be able to offer a personal experience for any guest that enters The Resident Edinburgh and equip them with insider knowledge, so they can feel like a resident in Scotland’s vibrant capital.”
The hotel owners, Mactaggart Family and Partners have commissioned Art for the public spaces from Emily Beamish of Dacre Fine Art, featuring local artists Katy Eccles, Hatti Pattisson and Poppy Cyster.
The Resident will be the perfect spot to relax with friends for a quiet glass of wine, or a specially selected whisky. The hotel has a variety of quiet niches to retreat for work or leisure. Whether a long day of exploring the city, or returning to the hotel after a day of work, the warmth of The Resident Edinburgh’s team will be there for you.
The Resident Edinburgh’s interior design takes inspiration from local surroundings and the designers have placed emphasis on sourcing items to fully capture the vibrant character of Edinburgh.
Furnishings have been carefully handpicked and fabric elements in the rooms and lounge areas have been sourced from well-regarded Glasgow-based, Timorous Beasties.
The hotel’s interior colour palette draws subtly on national references; the pale blue of the Saltire flag, the soft hues of the Craigleith sandstone, the earthy tones of the countryside visible from the rooms and finally the smoky browns that allude to the city’s affectionate nickname of ‘Auld Reekie’.
IT’S TIME TO DITCH SINGLE-USE PLASTIC BOTTLES AND CUPS FOR GOOD
The Bluewater Flow transforms tap water into great tasting drinking water everywhere people work, rest, and play.
Bluewater, a world leader in innovative water purification and beverage solutions, is thrilled to announce the launch of its innovative solution for high-quality drinking water dispensers in the UK, the Bluewater Flow.
Already a smash hit in the United States with over 14,000 installations, the Bluewater Flow sets a new standard across the UK and Ireland for dispensing on-demand pure, great-tasting water in offices, gyms, hospitals, and schools that is free from potential contaminants such as toxic PFAS chemicals, microplastics, or waterborne germs.
The self-sanitizing, free-standing Bluewater Flow indoor refill stations are designed for simple installation and connect to any potable water line for easy replacement of existing water fountains, water coolers, and large jug dispensers.
Fill your bottle in seconds 4 litres per minute
Set Volumes for Easy Refill Custom Volume Control
Two Water Temperatures
Chilled at 2°C, Hot at 85°C
Users enjoy chilled, fast-flowing water that undergoes a revitalizing process including the infusion of electrolytes, increased alkalinity, oxygenation, and trace minerals, providing a greattasting hydration experience.
Bluewater Flow 7 x Advanced Purification uses an existing water source and removes up to 99% of any impurities that can be found in typical tap water. The Bluewater Flow purified water system also improves the water by adding trace elements of essential minerals and electrolytes, and finally, finishes the water through a coconut carbon filter for a crisp, fresh, delicious taste.
The new Bluewater Flow refill stations for easy access to pure drinking water offer the following product highlights:
• Great-tasting, high-quality water free of lead, toxic chemicals like PFAS, and other contaminants
• Convenient small footprint
• Easy to install and maintain
• High capacity, rapid filtered water dispensing
• Serves both cold and hot water
• Sustainable, cost-efficient solution that reduces single-use plastic bottle waste
Expanding your business potential with quality and style
Unable to take any more bookings because it’s too cold outside or raining? Turning customers away because you’ve run out of seats? As professionals in the world of Outdoor Coverings for commercial venues, Broadview know how important it is to keep your business operating whatever the weather.
More clients are looking to enhance their outdoor dining spaces with a Pergola, Awning or Umbrella System that can accommodate all four seasons. Broadview are as passionate about outdoor coverings as you are about maximising your business potential.
Just invite them to see the space available and they can talk through the options available, run through the benefits and turn your vision into a reality. Most importantly, they'll show you how to achieve a fast return on your investment.
With one of the largest ranges of outdoor living systems in the South, manufactured by the industry leading brand Brustor, every system from Broadview can be custom designed to fit your business. They offer both louvred roof pergola systems and garden awnings with rotating and retracting roofs which are powered by a Somfy motor and can be operated either by remote or app control as well as umbrella systems.
Add extras such as LEDs, heating, Bluetooth speakers and sliding glass and you’ll get not just an Umbrella, Awning or Pergola, but a full outdoor room to use all year round.
Broadview have over 55 years of experience in the industry - all backed with a five year warranty, a 5 star ‘Excellent’ Trust Pilot rating as well as an accredited ‘Somfy Expert’ status, so you can be sure that you’re in good hands from the initial survey right through to the final installation. Talk to the experts for your free consultation and see how your business can benefit with our outdoor lifestyle solutions.
Bankside Hotel Partners with Jim & Tonic to Launch Art Yard’s Summer Back Yard Pop-Up
Bankside Hotel, Autograph Collection, is thrilled to announce a new partnership with London’s renowned sustainable distillery, Jim & Tonic.
This exciting collaboration kicks off with the launch of Art Yard’s Summer “Back Yard”: a creative and communityled pop-up event running from July until the end of August 2024. Located mere steps from the South Bank, this initiative offers locals a culturally enriched environment with live music, gourmet bites, and signature drinks.
Art Yard’s “Back Yard”: An Immersive and Communityled Drinks Pop Up
Reflecting a mutual commitment to sustainability and community engagement, Bankside Hotel has partnered with Jim & Tonic to transform the courtyard area outside its restaurant, Art Yard, into a vibrant hub for local workers and residents to enjoy after work throughout the summer.
Jim & Tonic, founded in London in 2016, is celebrated for its sustainable production methods and award-winning spirits. The pop-up will feature a specially designed van serving an array of enticing signature drinks.
•Jim & Tonic: A classic gin and tonic made with Jim & Tonic’s Mercato Gin, flavoured with Italian herbs and garnished with rosemary and orange.
•Hugh Goes to Art Yard: A refreshing Hugo Spritz cocktail with Jim & Tonic’s London Dry Gin, elderflower liqueur, and sparkling wine, garnished with mint and cucumber.
•Back Yard RooBee: A delightful gin cocktail made with Jim & Tonic’s RooBee Gin, lemonade, and garnished with strawberries and mint.
•Honey Karma: A delicious alcohol-free cocktail blending the refreshing taste of Karma Lemonade with sweet local honey syrup, topped with soda for a crisp finish.
In addition to the drinks, guests can enjoy light bites from the hotel’s restaurant, Art Yard Bar & Kitchen, regular spirit tastings hosted by the Jim & Tonic team and informal acoustic performances reflecting the neighbourhood’s vibrant busking culture three nights a week (live music Tuesday to Thursday only).
The hotel will also run an open house at the hotel’s Maker’s Studio, where guests can watch artists-in-residence at work from the Summer Square space.
Sustainability and Community Engagement
Bankside Hotel and Jim & Tonic’s partnership is built on their shared commitment to sustainability and community engagement. Bankside Hotel passionately supports the SE1 community through local events, partnerships and sourcing, and champions sustainable hotel practices like a zero-tolandfill policy and rooftop beekeeping.
These efforts align seamlessly with Jim & Tonic’s eco-friendly production methods, use of local ingredients, and minimal packaging to reduce their carbon footprint.
“Summer in the Square is all about celebrating both our dedication to sustainability and the vibrant community we serve,” said Philip Steiner, General Manager of Bankside Hotel. “We want to be the go-to spot for locals to unwind, connect, and enjoy their neighbourhood. Partnering with Jim & Tonic allows us to deepen our community ties and offer something truly special. We invite everyone to stop by, enjoy a drink, and meet their neighbours—we’re here to bring everyone together.”
ISRABER LTD
A supplier and manufacturer of High-End Home Furniture & Synagogues
We have been a manufacturer of furniture made of natural wood for 24 years. We produce custom furniture for hotels, houses, synagogues and other public and private premises. We deliver furniture all over the world, do installation and give a factory warranty. We are pleased to invite you to visit our website www.israber.com
Aron Kodesh
We produce Aron Hakodesh from natural wood, beech and oak. We take customer projects as a basis and can offer our own options. In every country in the world, we carry out assembly and installation ourselves.
Hospitality Trends & New Products for 2024
With the hospitality industry getting ready for summer 2024 we at Alliance have taken the opportunity to research the top emerging trends set to take hold this summer season. We have identified four trends so far which are beginning to permeate through to the current hospitality scene:
Super Senses
Guests of hospitality are expecting more from their visit. No longer satisfied with simply good food or a nice drink, guests are expecting a full experience from their visits, this means engaging all their senses, visually appealing service with drama and theatre, considered lighting, texture and tactile properties across tableware, crockery, glassware and cutlery. Glassware such as the Luminarc Concepto are perfect for stimulating the senses.
Botanical & Natural
Nothing says vibrancy and effervescence quite like natureand with venues placing an emphasis on sustainability and environmentally conscious sourcing, these factors are getting reflected in venue decor and service. Colours and materials that reflect and imitate a natural environment have been a consistent theme in dining trends over the past few years, and after a slight hiatus between 2020 and 2023, this theme is picking up momentum again. Steelite’s Performance Petra works brilliantly alongside this theme allowing your meals to
Alfresco
Servicing Ghost Kitchens
Virtual restaurants or Ghost Kitchens are a food service business that serve customers exclusively by delivery and pick-up based on phone and online ordering. Virtual restaurants are stand-alone businesses that either operate out of an existing restaurant's kitchen or from a separate kitchen set-up away from a restaurant. This style of venue catapulted to popularity following the closure of “dine in” venues during the COVID-19 pandemic and although those restrictions are a distant memory, consumers never forgot the enjoyment of having restaurant quality food delivered to the comfort of your home.
Dining and drinking outside is quintessential with the British spring and summer months, but with dining outside comes the added risk of breakages. Polycarbonate and melamine have grown and developed so much over recent years we want to shine a spotlight on the more durable tableware and glassware alternatives available to Alliance. A great melamine range is Creative’s Copenhagen range which is combines beautiful colours and shapes with the durability of melamine.
“At Alliance we are always up to date with the latest hospitality trends and products so call your nearest Alliance Local to see how we can help you with all your needs.”
New Products
At Alliance we have seen many large new product launches from our suppliers during the start of the year, especially where restaurant and bar equipment is concerned. In particular, our Artis glassware ranges of Speakeasy, Speakeasy Swing and Onis New Era which we presently have on sale at 10% off. The glasses are beautiful show pieces which are perfect for displaying your venues signature cocktails.
From Steelite we have added their Mogogo Display Cart System and their Hollowick Lighting selection. The Mogogo Carts can help establishments create beautiful and unique displays, particularly for areas with buffet / serve yourself areas. The Hollowick range includes lamps, tealights, flameless candles, votives and more which all bring an intimate and close aesthetic.
UNIVERSITY OF LEEDS PARTNERS WITH LOLLY
Hospitality technology specialist to enhance the student experience with software rollout to support planned expansion.
The University of Leeds, one of the UK’s largest universities known for its excellence in teaching and research, has partnered with Lolly, the hospitality technology specialist, as its software provider across its existing hardware estate.
Working together, the rollout of the Lolly PoS and front-ofhouse software means the university can utilise its existing hardware while introducing a fully integrated PoS and payments solution. The integration will support future expansion while enabling staff and students to have a more efficient and user-friendly experience.
Commenting on the partnership news Ben Collier, Head of Catering and Hospitality, at the University of Leeds says: “We are delighted to be working with Lolly, the collaboration marks an exciting chapter for us as we work together to enhance the quality and efficiency of our services for the campus community at Leeds. We look forward to a successful and productive relationship.”
Paul Markey, Sales Manager at Lolly adds: “Further & Higher Education is a core focus for Lolly, and we have developed a deep understanding of the sector’s needs and requirements.
“The University of Leeds sought a solution with future expansion potential, and it’s gratifying to see our integration being rolled out across the campus. We have built a strong relationship with the university and look forward to further rollouts. Exciting times are ahead.”
Discover the Finest Flavours of the Sea at the English Riviera’s Seafood FEAST 2024
The English Riviera is gearing up to host its annual England’s Seafood FEAST, a celebration of the region’s rich maritime heritage and culinary excellence, in the Devon coastal towns of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham this September.
This year’s event promises to be more extraordinary than ever, featuring a lineup of unique and immersive gastronomic experiences including kayaking for seafood and foraging from Coast to Caves and even a fish-themed event for dogs!
Here are six must-attend events for foodies to showcase the diversity of what is on offer showcasing a taste for all the senses at England’s Seafood FEAST 2024:
1. SEADOGS at Shoreline
Date: 06 October 2024 Time: 2pm – 4pm
Location: Shoreline steps near the Shoreline Bar & Restaurant
2. Kayak, Cast and Cookout with Reach Outdoors
Date: Various dates throughout October
Location: Goodrington Sands, Paignton
3. Champion Seafood Celebration at Pier Point
Date: 11 October 2024
Location: Pier Point Restaurant, Torquay
4. Loluli’s Pop-Up: Fish Over Fire at Otto, Torquay
Date: 12 October 12 2024
Location: Otto, Torquay
5. Coast to Caves: A Foraged Culinary Journey at Kents Cavern
Date: 05 October 2024
Location: Kents Cavern Prehistoric Caves
6. Agatha Christie’s Mystery, History and Seafood
Gastronomy
Date: 04 October 2024 at 10am
Location: Offshore Restaurant and Bar, Torquay
OTC BEVERAGES A Taste of the Real Caribbean
Award Winning Premium drinks that bring real flavour to the table
Five years ago at her father’s birthday party Shirley White had the spark of an idea for a new business. I looked around and realised that in our community we make a lot of homemade food and people bring their drinks in plastic reusable bottles to parties, she says.
I thought, surely there’s a better way of presenting this. Its unlikely, that my and my children’s generation are not going to do what my father’s generation and the generation before did, which is making the drinks at home.
Shirley’s background was miles away from the drinks industry. After spending time working for local government, she spied an ad in the evening standard that caught her eye and went along to a wine and cheese evening, during which she landed a customer service role in the world of market data and investment banking.
After 30 years working in the city for companies including Telerate, Deutsche Bank and HSBC, she was ready for her next challenge - so OTC Beverages was born. OTC offers sorrel, Lime juice with butterfly pea flower and nonalcoholic ginger beer in bottles and cans now available in corner shops and takeaways across London....a new flavour will soon be available.
Although it is a new industry for her, Shirley says there have been many transferable skills from her former life in banking and finance. It’s the skills you get from project management, being a Market Data Strategy Manager and juggling a number of programs within large Investment Banking organisations and market data Vendors, she explains. In addition she has researched, networked, learnt product design, packaging design and more importantly being able to work with people from all backgrounds to provide a product which is healthy and can be consumed by young and old.
She adopted a less is more philosophy to the drinks formulation by using only identifiable quality ingredients such as organic cane sugar instead of artificial sweeteners. She emphasises the natural health benefits of ginger and sorrel as well as their potential in an ever growing market for no and low alcoholic drinks.
Her flavours are already proving popular, with OTC Beverages being shortlisted for a number of accolades including the Great British Food Awards and Health and Wellbeing.
Shirley is now working to bring her products to more locations in London, the United Kingdom and has plans to go Global. There are a few logistical wrinkles to iron out, but she’s hoping to bring her sorrel and ginger beer to other markets including USA and Africa in 2025. Currently, it’s at the point where she is growing the brand awareness, so you want it to take on momentum and you want it to be an identifiable “brand of choice” when people go to a shop to buy a cold drink, she says.
The generation who had created the culture, food and beverages that I had grown up drinking and eating, were getting older… I felt moved to preserve their legacy, and that’s how OTC Beverages came to life.
— SHIRLEY WHITE
Tisn’t the season – phs Greenleaf urges businesses to start thinking about Christmas
phs Greenleaf has launched a new summer campaign to encourage businesses to start thinking early about how to make the biggest impact this Christmas.
phs Greenleaf supplies more than 2,500 decorated Christmas trees each year to businesses across the UK. Its specialist Christmas production team spend most of the year decorating artificial trees in preparation for the festive season.
The new campaign, coined ‘Tisn’t the Season’, features members of the phs Greenleaf team playfully getting ready for Christmas this summer, including one team member as Santa on the beach.
Stephen Dieppe, Managing Director of phs Greenleaf, said: “Christmas is one of the biggest opportunities to support and add value to your brand. Properly planned, your Christmas decorations alone can help you build relationships, increase brand awareness and boost productivity and sales.
“It’s about creating that golden ‘Instagram moment’ for your customers or staff. That is something that people want to be photographed with and share with friends and followers on social media. It could be something really beautiful, or really unique.
“However, we know that it can be hard for businesses to make the time to execute this well so, instead of letting the opportunity pass them by, we take care of everything for them. They can get on with running their business, safe in the knowledge that Christmas is in good hands.
“It’s important to start early and strategically think about what your objectives are for Christmas. We work with thousands of businesses every year to help them create and execute their festive themes for maximum impact, and work on this often starts in the summer.
“You need to ask yourself about what you want to achieve from your Christmas decorations. What do you want them to say about your brand? What do you want customers or staff to think or feel when they see them? What is your ultimate goal?
“We offer a range of decorated Christmas trees with different colour schemes and themes to provide something for everyone. We can also create bespoke trees to customer’s exact requirements.
“As well as traditional reds and golds and luxury snowcovered trees, we also have playful themes like Christmas jumpers and candy canes. We also have sustainable options, including our new Festive Forage tree, which uses only natural and eco-friendly decorations, and the innovative Christmoss Trees™, which are wooden structures featuring moss that make for a chic ecostatement tree.”
The Christmas designers at phs Greenleaf install each tree on location to ensure it looks perfect and ready to welcome staff, visitors and customers. Each tree is available in a wide range of sizes – from a standard 7ft tree to as high as 30ft tall, alongside the 3ft tabletop tree, decorative wreaths, garlands, floral arrangements, lights and other festive accessories. Greenleaf’s real trees are harvested at a sustainable farm in the Midlands.
phs Greenleaf’s new Christmas 2024 brochure is now available online.
THE CURLING CLUB RETURNS TO LONDON AND WELCOMES NEW SITE
London’s favourite winter, alpine-themed entertainment, The Curling Club, will return to London for its fourth consecutive year and will also welcome a brand new site.
Following an impressive four year run and due to popular demand, The Curling Club will once again open in October at London’s Southbank from 10th October 2024 – 6th February 2025, and for the first-time glide into London’s iconic Vinegar Yards in November.
Opening its doors at this new site on 1st November 2024 –28th February 2025, this larger, brand-new location with a 600-person capacity will offer an enhanced winter experience that guests from around the country have come to love over the years. A stone’s throw from London Bridge Station and alongside some of London’s renowned establishments such as the Shard, the adored pop up will offer state-of-the-art curling lanes, cozy decor and a vast range of delicious food and beverage options.
London’s Southbank venue, with a capacity of 250, will continue to boast the most dashing of après ski nostalgia and be a much beloved destination for winter entertainment. Open between 11am – 11pm daily, here individuals, couples, and corporate teams can continue to enjoy the ultimate winter experience in its most competitive form with live entertainment, music, and alpine inspired street food, beverages and cocktails.
Eve Muirhead, a four-time Olympian and now Team GB’s Chef de Mission until the Milano-Cortina Olympic Winter Games in 2026, continues her role as The Curling Club ambassador and will host events across both sites. After leading Team GB to a gold medal as skip at the Beijing 2022 Olympics, guests can now emulate this by gliding stones down a fit-for-purpose sheet, providing an authentic experience without the need for ice, or specialist footwear.
Open every day from 12.00pm – late, groups of all sizes can also enjoy a feast of wintery street food and drink.
Commenting on the much-awaited return of the Curling Club, its Founder Dylan Salamon, said:
“After yet another impressive and busy year at London’s Southbank – a key destination for winter entertainment –we are hugely excited to welcome our guests, old and new, to London’s Vinegar Yards. Located beside London Bridge Station, this is truly an excellent destination to accommodate even larger corporate bookings, and we can celebrate later into the night. Our new venue boasts double the number of sheets, triple the capacity, and in addition to the much beloved curling and festive entertainment, we look forward to expanding our offering in the new year.”
The Curling Club will be at The Southbank Centre, London from 10th October 2024 until 6th February 2025, and at Vinegar Yards from 1st November 2024 until 28th February 2025. Corporate Packages start at £50 (+VAT) and Pay for Play experiences are from £24 (+VAT).
New investors, along with the original shareholders, are targeting five further sites, including a permanent bricks-and-mortar venue ahead of the winter Olympics in 2026.
The Curling Club’s Chair Trevor Bowers, commented:
“We have a hugely successful model, tried and tested, and with bookings strongly ahead of the 2023-24 season, we recognise this to be the right time to deliver our growth plan. We are being approached with further exciting site opportunities and are confident at least two of these will form part of our growing estate.”
Neil Benson, Commercial Director, The Vinegar Yards, added: “Having enjoyed The Curling Club experience at the Southbank as a customer we’re excited to be able to work with the team to offer Vinegar Yard’s spin on the curling experience.”
Tickets are on sale now with a range of price packages to suit all booking types. Visit: www.thecurlingclub.com for more information, and for general and corporate booking enquiries please visit: https://thecurlingclub.com/enquire-now/
