The Cube Issue 2

MAGAZINE

LUXURY HOTEL WORLD-CLASS SPA CHIC RESTAURANTS STYLISH LIVING

MARCO PIERRE WHITE Britain’s greatest chef brings his classic cuisine to The Cube

PLUS

WIN MEMBERSHIP AT THE CLUB AND SPA

# TWO I S S U E

D E C E MB E R 2 0 1 1

WELCOME TO

THE CUBE

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MAGAZINE

Well here we are, almost at the end of 2011, and what an exciting twelve months it’s been at The Cube. This year, the architectural jewellery box truly came to life, establishing itself as a landmark in Birmingham, both for its beauty and the unbeatable facilities inside its walls.

Looking back at our year, the launch of celebrity hairstylist Adee Phelan’s new salon in September was a real high point. Have a look at page 14 to see some of the famous faces who attended the launch party.

Elegant and sleek, the salon sets a new standard in style, matched only by Adee’s own penthouse apartment in The Cube. Turn to page 8 to get a sneak peek from Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Koen Kessels who has just moved in.

Now we’re established as a luxury destination, our focus is firmly on a spectacular celebration for the end of 2011.

December brings Marco Pierre White’s rooftop restaurant Marco’s. Hailed as the greatest living British chef, Marco gave us a fascinating interview for this issue (page 4), and we couldn’t be more thrilled that he’s joining us at The Cube.

The youngest-ever chef to be

awarded three Michelin stars, Marco has not only cooked for everyone from Prince Charles to Mick Jagger, his protégés include Heston Blumenthal and Gordon Ramsay.

If you’re intrigued by what’s happening at The Cube, you’ll be excited to hear that December 1 also sees Hotel Indigo open its doors followed closely by theclubandspa. Turn to page 27 for your chance to win two fantastic prizes from theclubandspa: a three-month membership and amazing spa treatment for two!

The Cube is so much more than a city landmark: it’s where it’s all happening, and we want you to be a part of it. We hope to see you very soon!

Season’s greetings from all at The Cube, and best wishes for a peaceful and prosperous 2012!

Neil Edginton, director at The Cube

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THE CUBE MAGAZINE

CONTENTS

DECEMBER 2011 14

8

THE RESIDENTS

4

Living at The Cube with Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Koen Kessels

launch with celebrity friends

10

THE POPPIES AT THE CUBE

12 Days of Christmas at Hotel Indigo

for Remembrance Day

22

THE COMPETITION

THE OFFERS

Luxury and indulgence in a city centre location

THE CLUB AND SPA

27

24

THE EXPERIENCE

20

with restaurateur Mike Nayla of Rodizio Rico

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THE HOTEL

Interview with the compelling celebrity chef

THE NEW BRAZILIAN FARE

Your chance to win two fantastic prizes with The Cube

treat yourself at theclubandspa

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26

THE AMBASSADORS

THE CAR PARK

High profile members of theclubandspa

An insider’s look at the car park with Adee Phelan’s Dominique Hateley

28 reasons to join theclubandspa

For enquiries contact: The Cube Management Suite, 196 Wharfside Street, Birmingham B1 1RN 0121 654 9400 www.thecube.co.uk info@thecube.co.uk The views expressed in this publication are those of the respective contributors and are not necessarily shared by The Cube and its employees.

The publication assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations. This publication may not be reproduced in whole or part without permission from the publishers. Prices and information all correct at time of going to print. All rights reserved.

Designed and published by Presence Marketing Ltd in association with Publishing Ink Ltd

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THE ROOFTOP WITH MARCO PIERRE WHITE

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THE ADEE PHELAN SALON

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IT’S QUITE AMAZING WHAT YOUR CITY HAS ACHIEVED

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MARCO’S AT THE CUBE HAILED AS THE GREATEST BRITISH CHEF OF HIS GENERATION, THE COMPELLING MARCO PIERRE WHITE IS LAUNCHING A NEW RESTAURANT IN THE CUBE, OPENING ON DECEMBER 1

THE ROOFTOP Why Birmingham? Why The Cube?

I never seek opportunity. I’ve always waited for opportunity to cross my path. I don’t say yes to everything. If I’m honest, I say no to most things because very few things capture my imagination.

When I was asked if I would consider The Cube, I felt that it was my time to come to Birmingham. The people of Birmingham are opening their arms to people like myself. What you have here is a very beautiful jigsaw. It’s quite amazing what your city has achieved. I feel very privileged that I’ve been given the opportunity to do the restaurant at The Cube. There is also the accessibility to the decision makers. This is the only city I know where the Council Leader will clear time in his diary for you in order to solve problems and make things happen.

What is different about your new restaurant in comparison to others in Birmingham?

For many years, I worked in the industry of Michelin starred restaurants. I like recognisable dishes; I don’t like all the fuss. I think the average person, when they go out for dinner, they’re going out to have a night out with their friends and family. If we’re honest with ourselves, when was the last time we went to a Michelin starred restaurant? If I’m honest, I can’t remember.

I wanted to create something for the people of Birmingham, not just a certain sector. I’d like to think that there is something for

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As Marco Pierre White prepares to launch his latest restaurant on the stunning rooftop of The Cube, we met the charismatic chef to get the inside track on his vision for this exciting new venture.

everyone on our menu, at a price that they’re happy to pay. What I try to do with my restaurants is create environments for everyone, so nobody’s intimidated. I’ve always said that the most important aspect of any restaurant is the environment you sit in. If you feel comfortable, you can start to enjoy yourself. You have to create an environment in which everyone can feel comfortable and have fun. I very rarely dine outside of my own restaurants. By sitting in my own establishments, I know what’s happening. My customers see me there endorsing my own product, not somebody else’s.

That’s very important.

Why did you decide to make this restaurant a steakhouse?

The benchmark, in my opinion, for all restaurants is a great steak.

The working man will put his hand that little bit deeper into his pocket for a good steak.

Grilled dover sole. Grilled pork chops. Grilled steaks. Liver and bacon. With the finest ingredients money can buy. I like simple food. I don’t like food that’s been messed around. Most chefs create pictures on a plate to hide their lack of technical ability. If you go to the truly great restaurants in the world, they have the ability of presenting food very simply and cooking it to perfection.

I was taught as a young boy, perfection is lots of simple things done well. It’s as simple as that. I love a good roast with perfectly cooked Yorkshire puddings and perfect roast potatoes. If we’re all honest, the food we really love is very simple. We all love a good steak; we all love a prawn cocktail; we all love a baked potato with butter. It’s as simple as that.

Have you had a say in the employment of the staff that will be working in your restaurant?

I only tend to get involved with two members of staff: the Head Chef and the Restaurant Manager. If you employ the right people then they will employ the right people. You can’t undermine their positions; they have to build their own teams.

Do people ever get intimidated when they first meet you?

Councillor Mike Whitby with Marco Pierre White

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What is your favourite dish?

It’s interesting when people meet me for the first time because they

Dissolve your fears of the stove

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The benchmark for all restaurants is a great steak

You famously gave back your Michelin stars. What’s the story behind this?

When I was a child, I had a dream of winning three stars and five red knives and forks, as all the great French restaurants have. There’s only one restaurant in Britain today that has five knives and forks, and that’s the Ritz, who unfortunately have no stars. In 1995 I won my three stars. In 1998 I got my three stars with five knives and forks. I had achieved everything that I had wanted to achieve as a young man.

I had realised my dream. When you have a dream, I think you have a responsibility to turn it into a reality. After 22 years of working six and seven days a week, I decided I’d done my bit. It’s a young man’s game. I had three options: continue with what I was doing, retain my status and everything that comes with it. My second option was to live a lie and pretend I cook when I don’t cook, question my integrity and everything I’d ever worked for. Option three was to tell Michelin that on 23 December 1999 I was retiring from the stove.

You get to an age when you start to question things. The day I realised that I was being judged by people with less knowledge than me was the day that I realised that three stars in Michelin meant very little.

It was a nice mountain to climb and a very exciting journey. I never wanted to be one of those fighters who has one fight too many, so I stepped out of the way.

What piece of advice would you give a young chef today?

I would give them the same piece of advice that was given to me by Albert Roux when I started working at La Gavroche. Dissolve your fears of the stove. If you have a fear of the stove, you’ll never cook. That was the greatest piece of advice anyone ever gave me.

• Marco’s opens on December 1. For bookings call 0121 643 2010.

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have formed this opinion of me before meeting me. As I’ve said many times in my life, most of my reputation is a result of exaggeration. I’m quite a straightforward bloke. I don’t try to intimidate people.

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RESIDENTS KOEN KESSELS, MUSICAL DIRECTOR AT BIRMINGHAM ROYAL BALLET SINFONIA ON HIS STUNNING NEW SEVENTEENTH FLOOR APARTMENT AT THE CUBE Can you explain a bit about your career and how you’ve got to where you are today?

I was born in Oostende in Belgium. I went to the Conservatoire in Antwerp where I studied as a pianist. I always had the doubt as to whether I should carry on with music or whether to become an architect. I didn’t want to study music and then just go in to education, as so many music graduates do. I travelled to Brussels and auditioned to become the rehearsal pianist and, from there on I was asked to do small conducting jobs.

From Brussels, I became an assistant in the Opera House in Antwerp, and there I conducted my first ballet. After then, I was working more as a conductor for ballets and operas, no longer as a pianist.

What made you come to the UK? I had an invitation from the Edinburgh Festival to work with the Royal Ballet Symphonia to conduct Swan Lake.

That was fifteen years ago, and that was the first time that I worked with the orchestra of which I am now Musical Director. I also worked with the orchestra for The Nutcracker in Covent Garden and Birmingham. At that time, they were looking for a new Musical Director, and so September last season I became the new Musical Director.

What attracted you to The Cube as a home?

I like to have a feeling of home. I don’t like to go from one hotel to another when I travel. I decided to look for something in Birmingham. I looked into different possibilities and I really liked The Cube. I like the way that Ken Shuttleworth designed the building; it is very impressive. I never thought that I would buy something, and then, one Saturday I looked at a studio and I felt immediately at home. In the construction, everything is here. I will only be here for two or three months a year, so it provides me with the perfect way of living for what I need. I like the space; I’m on the seventeenth floor, which is great, and the light coming in to the apartment is wonderful. The main thing for me is that it feels like home.

Do you feel safe leaving your property in The Cube for long periods while you are away?

When you walk into The Cube, you can feel straightaway that it is secure. It just feels safe. There is also the concierge downstairs to make you feel safe.

Although, it’s difficult to keep leaving a place that I have come to love so much.

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How convenient is the location of The Cube?

The location is great. It’s just a five minute walk from New Street Station when I travel in by train. When I fly in, it’s very handy for the airport. I wanted to be in central Birmingham as a lot of my time is spent at the Hippodrome theatre. It’s so central. It’s really just a ten-minute walk from all the places I need to be.

What was the ‘wow’ moment that clinched the deal for you?

Is the apartment everything you were hoping for?

It is my own little space. I wanted somewhere where I can relax. It’s not for parties. It’s my own private space. I wanted something small but with a great view. The view is like an inside window to the world. My checklist was for something small, as high as possible in the building, with a view and with light, and not far from where I have to work. This was the one apartment that I saw that perfectly suited my wish list, plus it’s on the seventeenth floor so it’s pretty high! I took the show apartment so I didn’t even have to go out and buy anything for it, I could just move straight in. I just had the feeling it was right as soon as I saw it.

What are your plans for Christmas?

I’m conducting The Nutcracker down in London and also in Birmingham. We start rehearsals at the end of November so that will take up most of my time in the run up to Christmas. I am looking forward to spending more time in my new home from February.

• Only 20 per cent of apartments now remain at The Cube. Prices start from £112,000. Show apartment viewings by appointment, call 0121 654 9400. www.thecube.co.uk 0 9

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When I first visited the area around The Cube and The Mailbox, I thought it was like a little Venice. I love water, and that’s another main reason I fell in love with the building. When I arrive, I can sit on the waterside and feel at home.

Oostende, where I was born, is on the sea, and Antwerp has the river. I feel at home when I am near water. It’s like a transition for me. My work is very demanding, so I like to relax when I come home, and water relaxes me. It’s like the antidote to a busy lifestyle.

M A G A Z I N E C U B E T H E

THE

HOTEL

1. Enjoy a romantic break with your loved one. Relax in one of the 52 boutique bedrooms of Hotel Indigo, soak up the love, care and attention that has been put into the décor of every aspect. Each room is individual, vibrant and vivacious and comes equipped with a luxurious Cloud 9 bed, complimentary Wi-Fi, flatscreen television, media hub and iPod docking stations. Hotel Indigo takes inspiration from its surroundings, which ensures it’s unique to the city of Birmingham.

12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

AT HOTEL INDIGO

2. Dine in style at Marco Pierre White’s rooftop restaurant. The very first rooftop eaterie in Birmingham, Marco’s is The Cube’s crowning glory. See the city as you’ve never seen it before from the 25th floor’s panoramic views.

HOTEL INDIGO IS ALL ABOUT LUXURY, DECADENCE AND INCREDIBLE STYLE IN A CHIC CITY SETTING. CELEBRATE THE RUN-UP TO CHRISTMAS WITH THESE 12 FESTIVE FEATURES AT HOTEL INDIGO

3. Book a spa treat or a trip to the gym at theclubandspa.

Relax and rejuvenate with an invigorating spa treatment with a wide choice of pampering indulgences including Dry Floatation experience, Rasul mud room and couples

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aromatic massage. Or, if you’re feeling energetic, take a trip to the gym and experience the state-of-the-art facilities on offer.

4. Meet the friends for Christmas cocktails in the stylish bar. Sample some festive cocktails to make your evening merry and bright.

The newest chic, contemporary hotel in Birmingham

5. Give a fantastic gift this Christmas. Whether it’s a

hectic girly shopping weekend or a romantic rendezvous with your partner, Hotel Indigo offers some great weekend breaks. From shopping breaks to city breaks and Champagne breaks to sports and theatre breaks, a mini break will also make a fantastic Christmas present.

6. Soak up the panoramic views from wherever you are

in Hotel Indigo. Benefiting from a location on the 23th and 24th floors, The Cube’s design has expertly captured natural light and vista meaning that on a clear day, you can see for miles around.

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Artist’s impression of the new Marco’s restaurant. Details may vary

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View across the city from Levels 23-25

INDIVIDUAL, VIBRANT AND VIVACIOUS

7. Hotel Indigo’s concierge will take care of everything you need, recommending the best venues for a night out, booking tickets for a concert or theatre or just generally helping you find your way around Birmingham.

8. Inspire and style your own home. One stay at Hotel Indigo will leave you envying the chic décor and wanting to transfer that style to your own home. Think eclectic city chic with plenty of luxurious finishing touches. Pure style.

9. Celebrate wedded bliss with the experienced wedding team at Hotel Indigo taking care of everything to make your day go without a hitch. The luxurious honeymoon suite enjoys the stunning views and open plan living, with a double bath in the middle of the room, queen sized bed with star lights above, mirrored wall and walk-in shower.

10. Enjoy the prestige of staying in The Cube,

11. The perfect base for enjoying the sights and delights of Birmingham. With The Mailbox on your doorstep for all your designer shopping needs, the Bullring centre just a short walk away and countless eateries within easy reach, including Marco’s and Rodizio Rico at The Cube.

12. Last minute Christmas shopping at Birmingham’s wide array of stores, relaxed in the knowledge that you can soon be back in your hotel room in just a few minutes. The Cube is perfectly located to enjoy close proximity to shops, bars and restaurants as well as train stations and transport connections.

• Hotel Indigo opens December 1 2011. To book, visit www.hotelindigobirmingham.co.uk or call 0121 643 2010.

In the run-up to Christmas, Hotel Indigo is making its mark on the people of Birmingham with some fantastically festive treats.

There will be plenty of bubbly flowing in the lead up to Christmas with a selection of chilled white wines and luscious mulled wine to make you merry. The amazing ambient atmosphere in Hotel Indigo will give you a festive glow - if the mulled wine hasn’t already. The intimate, festive atmosphere of the stylish bar and cosy restaurant will leave you feeling completely relaxed and ready for a good night’s sleep.

Season’s greetings from all at Hotel Indigo!

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Birmingham’s building of the moment. Being the envy of all your friends, a stay at Hotel Indigo will definitely be something of a conversation starter for the future.

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SECRET THE CUBE’S RESIDENT HAIRDRESSER WAS WATCHED BY MILLIONS AS HE UNDERTOOK THE CHALLENGE OF A LIFETIME ON CHANNEL 4’S THE SECRET MILLIONAIRE IN OCTOBER

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MILLIONAIRE

Celebrity hairdresser Adee Phelan hasn’t always known comfort and success. That’s why he jumped at the chance to appear on the inspirational Channel 4 programme The Secret Millionaire.

Born in Ireland, Adee moved to Kings Heath in Birmingham as a young boy.

He left home and school at a young age, moving to Essex where his life became increasingly difficult. He was taken under the wing of hairdresser Lee Stafford after being employed as a painter to decorate his salon, and began to turn his life around at the age of 25.

In The Secret Millionaire, Adee returned to the Essex coast where he posed as an everyday hairdresser setting up a ‘pop-up’ shop in the deprived area of Brooklands. Adee’s temporary salon was viewed with scepticism at first, but the community began to see the plus points of someone like ‘James McCarthy’ (Adee’s alias) coming into their town.

One of the people Adee met on his Secret Millionaire journey was Byron, a terminally ill patient from the local hospice. Hooked up to beeping monitors day and night, Byron had one wish to go fishing with his family.

Adee was able to provide Byron with the money to realise this wish. Adee said on The Secret Millionaire: “I never cry.

I said to the people at Channel 4, ‘don’t

expect me to cry.’ But, when you get the opportunity to give a dying man his last wishes, I defy you not to feel something.

The experience taught me a lot and opened my eyes.”

Viewers also saw Adee donate money to St. Helena Hospice’s day centre in Clacton, as well as charities Inclusion Ventures and Open Road, which help rehabilitate people with addiction problems. Adee will return at a later date to officially open the new building shared by the two charities.

The response that Adee got on Twitter immediately after the show was phenomenal, with people congratulating and acknowledging him on his achievements and inspirational attitude. In total, Adee gave away in excess of £50,000 to the charities and people of Brooklands and Clacton. “I have worked my way up from nothing, so it meant a lot to me to be able to help people.”

• The Adee Phelan Salon at The Cube is now open. To book an appointment with Adee or one of the team, call 0121 643 7921.

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NOW OPEN AT THE CUBE ADEE CELEBRATED IN STYLE WITH A WHOLE HOST OF CELEB FRIENDS Clockwise from top left: Coronation Street’s Jack P. Shepherd, Neon Management’s Dave Read with two of the styling staff from the Adee Phelan Salon at The Cube, Vanessa Collett, Monique Wilks and Sophie Walton from the Adee Phelan Salon at The Cube, Ian Puleston-Davies with Brooke Vincent, Antony Cotton with Catherine Tyldesley all from Coronation Street, former Coronation Street actress Nikki Sanderson, Ryan Thomas from Coronation Street with two of the styling staff from the Adee Phelan Salon, Glamour models Imogen Thomas and Emily Jane, presenter Jason King and Emmerdale’s Suzanne Shaw, Keith Duffy and Ben Price, Blue’s Simon Webbe and his girlfriend Maria Kouka, Adee Phelan with Sky Sports’ Charlotte Jackson.

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ADEE PHELAN SALON

Tracey Lester, community fundraiser, Neil Edginton, director at The Cube, Ron Singer, president of the Jewish ex-servicemen’s association, Private Ashford Brown, student military nurse M A G A Z I N E C U B E T H E

THE POPPIES THE CUBE AND LOCAL ARTIST TEMPER ENCOURAGED PEOPLE TO VISIT THE ICONIC BUILDING IN BIRMINGHAM TO LAY POPPIES AT THE FOOT OF THE SPECIAL SCULPTURE BY TEMPER TO COMMEMORATE REMEMBRANCE DAY

AT THE CUBE

The Cube may be brand new in Birmingham and the vision of an inspired architect, but it will not forget its city roots and the people who have made the city what it is today.

In the atrium at The Cube stand Temper’s thought-provoking sculptures, each dedicated to, and named after, ‘the lovely people’ of the city. The works immortalise real people: sons and daughters of Birmingham whose achievements, sacrifices, hopes and dreams continue to inspire and make the city proud.

Temper, the artist behind the startling sculptures, said: “I think this is an excellent idea and really gets across the message of ‘the lovely people’. My inspiration for these sculptures was situations just like this. This is a real moving story of someone who was directly affected by World War II. So people laying poppies at her sculpture would be a sympathetic and personal way to remember.”

One of the statues depicts Gerda, a 98-yearold Jewish woman from Birmingham who lost members of her family in the Holocaust.

Representatives from the Royal British Legion also visited The Cube as part of their commemorations. Ron Singer, president of the Jewish ex-servicemen’s association took a Jewish shield to add to the poppies around the statue. It was an emotional day filled with memories of fallen British soldiers.

To mark Remembrance Day, The Cube asked the people of Birmingham to visit The Cube and lay poppies by Gerda’s statue as a mark of respect.

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“The new restaurant at The Cube is our first outside London. Back in 1999 when The Mailbox was opening, I was standing where the BBC office is now and I was looking around at the canal and I saw a warehouse. I said to myself ‘I want that warehouse’. Now, that warehouse is the location of The Cube, and I’ve taken a unit inside it. It makes sense for us to be in Birmingham as it’s got great transport links with London, so it’s easy for us to manage.

Birmingham is a very important city; it’s the second largest city in the UK. Being in London, sometimes the size of the city gets on my nerves. To get from where we are in Chiswick, West London to the O2, it can take me as long as it takes me to get to Birmingham.

If you’re a meat lover, it is the place you will want to be. It’s casual dining. Lots of meat: beef, lamb, chicken, pork and we make our own pork and chicken sausages.

There are no rules in our restaurant. You can go and get a bit of salad and then wait for the meat to come to your table.

The churrascaria, (pronounced ‘shoehoss-korea’) literally means ‘barbecue’ in Portuguese. This way of barbecuing and serving meat originates in the south of Brazil from the Gauchos (the cowboys of southern Brazil and Argentina). It really is a very special way of cooking and serving meat. At Rodizio Rico, you are not only here to wine and dine, but to be part of the show as well. You have to see it to believe it.

We also have a cocktails menu, which includes the flavour of Brazil, the Caipirinha.

We do three types of Caipirinha. You will have one and think it’s doing nothing, the

THE

NEW BRAZILIAN FARE RESTAURATEUR AND 747 CAPTAIN MIKE NAYLA IS A NATIVE IRAQI WITH A LOVE OF GOOD FOOD AND A BRAZILIAN WIFE WHO INSPIRED HIM TO TRANSFORM LONDON’S DINING WITH AUTHENTIC BRAZILIAN CUISINE. NOW, HE’S BRINGING IT TO BIRMINGHAM WITH THE NEW RODIZIO RICO EATERIE AT THE CUBE • Rodizio Rico is due to open early 2012.

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second one will go down the hatch and the third will hit you!

Being a long-haul pilot, the job gives me a bit of free time. I had a background in catering before and I have always cooked a lot at home. I wanted to do something that I liked and enjoyed.

I have the ability to concentrate my brainpower into whatever I’m doing.

When I’m in the restaurant, I’m not thinking of anything else and when I put on my pilot’s uniform, all other thoughts go out of the window. I shut out everything else. Also, I get to spend some time with my kids too and get a bit of time to myself.

I’m away quite a lot of the time, but I’m always in contact with the managers in each restaurant and the general manager. The manager from our O2 restaurant has been with us for about 14 years and he’s coming up to Birmingham to manage the new restaurant. The chef we have recruited here is Spanish and he’s coming over to work in our O2 restaurant for a couple of months until we open Birmingham.

A successful restaurant has to be fun. I don’t really like fancy restaurants; I’m one of these people who always rebels against these things. People should have freedom.

The food is casual as well. There is no menu.

You choose BBQ meats, vegetarian or the children’s size portion, and you can eat as much as you like. I like to give people the freedom to eat and drink what they want.

My advice if you are coming to Rodizio Rico, is starve yourself for a couple of days before! I like to see people enjoying their food.”

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN FOOD AND DRINK IS OF GREAT SIGNIFICANCE IN BRAZILIAN COOKERY. THESE ARE TWO OF MIKE NAYLA’S FAVOURITE RODIZIO RICO RECIPES, A DELICIOUS COCKTAIL AND A TASTY CHOCOLATEY DESSERT

THE

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DESSERT

The Caipirinha cocktail is the traditional drink of Brazil. It is a drink that will be in full flow on the opening of Rodizio Rico.

Ingredients

Ingredients

½ lime, cut into six wedges ½ tsp granulated sugar 2 tsp sugar syrup 1 passion fruit, pulp only 1-2 handfulls crushed ice 50 ml/2 fl oz cachaça Slice passion fruit to garnish

1 can sweetened condensed milk 1 tbsp butter 1 egg yolk (optional) 2 tbsp cocoa powder 1 pack chocolate sprinkles Small paper cases

Method

Method Put the condensed milk, butter, egg yolk and cocoa powder in a pan and mix them all together. Let the mixture cook over a low heat for about 12 minutes, stirring it constantly until the mixture loosens from the bottom of the pan and is thick like cream. Put the mixture on a greased plate and allow it to cool down completely. Roll 1 teaspoon of the mixture into small balls. Top tip: Grease your hands with butter before making the small balls. Wash your hands once in a while, if necessary. Put the chocolate sprinkles in a bowl and roll the small balls in the chocolate sprinkles. Place balls in small paper pastry cases and then onto a serving plate.

Place the lime wedges, sugar, sugar syrup and passion fruit pulp into a tumbler glass and lightly crush. Add some crushed ice and stir well. Pour over the cachaça and stir again. Garnish with a slice of passion fruit and top with more crushed ice.

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Brigadeiro is a traditional Brazilian dessert, reminiscent of a chocolate truffle. Named after Brigadier Eduardo Gomes, the Brigadeiro is eaten at parties and celebrations all over Brazil.

THE CLUB AND SPA: RECH

HERE ARE 28 REASONS STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITIES A 1. What gets you going?

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The Aspiration Finder is a clever scientific online questionnaire that identifies your aspirations. theclub has been designed into aspirational zones, so you’ll always find yourself with likeminded people.

6. Canal side Private Members’ Bar

2. The key to your success

When you join, you will receive a Wellness Key that allows you access to theclub.

Simply insert the key into each piece of equipment and off you go. It will know what your aspirations are and help you achieve them.

3. “Noticeable success in the shortest time” Milon is the only equipment manufacturer that can be measured by this quote. Milon generates weight resistance electronically, optimising the muscles and delivering a workout that is 30 per cent more effective than traditional workouts

4. Internet café and Wi-Fi Surf to your heart’s content on the free high-speed wireless Internet throughout theclubandspa.

7. Urban Street Studio

8. Salt room halotherapy

With wooden wall panels and funky leather sofas, it’s an atmospheric space with attention to design and detail.

The Urban Street Studio offers classes from a top class facility.

From Zumba to Body Pump, you can jump, step and dance your way to a better body.

This dry salt aerosol, administered in specially designed halochambers, is used for its anti-bacterial and antiinflammatory properties. It can help you sleep, reduce snoring, prevent and treat common colds and flu and strengthen your immune system.

9. Sauna time

10. Bio Sauna

Made from Kelo wood, this is surely the ultimate Finnish sauna. The Kelo tree is a super hard and dry wood, with exactly the right properties for a traditional Finnish sauna experience.

A cross between a regular sauna, a tepidarium and a multisensory room, the Bio Sauna distributes wet and dry heat with herbal aromas, with gentlychanging coloured fibre optic lights.

Partner to theclubandspa, Technogym is a world leader in biomechanically precise fitness equipment, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. While you train you can check your emails, browse the web, update your status and manage the contents of your iPod.

11. Endorsed by celebrities With over 1,000 exercises, over 250 workouts and unlimited possibilities, the PowerPlate is the intelligent trainer that takes your workout in a whole new direction. Vibration training is loved by celebs because of the benefits behind it: almost 100 per cent of the body’s muscles are exercised when using body vibration.

12. Soul space

13. Monsoon showers

Be mindful of what your body is doing at all times.

The Soul Studio offers a range of yoga, Pilates and conditioning classes.

theclubandspa believes you shouldn’t have to move around in a shower to wet your entire body.

The Monsoon Showers are overhead and are refreshing and stimulating.

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5. Technogym

14. Spinning Studio The original Spinning class that burns fat and tones muscle to great music.

theclubandspa offers a range of membership options to suit everybody. For just £28, you can become a Founder Member and receive a preferential membership fee for life

HARGE, RELAX, REFRESH

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THE AT THE CUBE... FROM JUST £28 15. Vitality pool

16. Steam room

Complete with swim jets, massage loungers and its very own waterfall, you’ll find yourself drifting away.

Relaxing and refreshing, the steam room is said to draw out toxins whilst soothing weary or aching muscles and joints.

If your routine is to grab a skinny latte or double espresso on the way to work, then theclubandspa can save you a few pennies.

20. Adee 21. Unlimited vitamin and Phelan mineral drinks Salon theclubandspa members get 25 per cent off in Adee Phelan’s hair salon.

18. VIP at Marco’s restaurant

Functional training builds inner strength, improves endurance, balance and range of motion. The Funk-tional training zone includes the latest and most effective equipment on the market.

As a member of theclubandspa you will automatically become a VIP Member of MPW, rewarding you with a 10 per cent discount on food every Monday to Thursday when you dine before 7.30pm.

theclubandspa has partnered with one of Europe’s largest vitamin and mineral drink providers and, for a small subscription, you can enjoy unlimited refills and make a saving on your regular gym drink spend.

22. Dry Floatation suite Perfect for busy lives, the twenty-five minute Dry Floatation suite therapy is the equivalent to several hours of sleep.

24. Ten spa therapy suites

23. Climbing wall

Treatment rooms feature a generously sized spa bed, shower, soft towels, dark wood furniture, candles and music. Immerse yourself in the soothing surroundings.

Indoor climbing builds and tones muscle, burns fat, develops strength, suppleness, coordination and balance, and works the cardiovascular system.

26. Glorious mud

The Rasul chamber offers the ultimate full-body skin cleansing ritual, aided by aroma-infused steam, the mud mask deeply cleanses and enriches.

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19. Free coffee

17. Funk-tional zone

27. A welcome gift worth £50 Once you’ve decided on theclubandspa membership, you will be welcomed with a quality retro workout holdall, complete with everything you need to get started: workout towel, headphones, water bottle, lanyard and key.

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28. Awardwinning clubandspa The clubandspas have won numerous design awards, including the UK Club of the Year awarded by the Fitness Industry Association.

25. Champagne nail bar Enjoy a glass of Champagne or refreshing fruit juice and let the nail technicians of theclubandspa work their magic.

• Reserve your membership for £28 before the opening of theclubandspa. Once open, joining fee and higher membership rates apply.

‘Join for £28’ offer for a limited time only.

To find out more about theclubandspa visit www.theclubandspabirmingham. co.uk or call 0121 643 2200.

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EXPERIENCE THE CLUB AND SPA PROVIDES THE ULTIMATE IN LUXURY IN BIRMINGHAM CITY CENTRE. IF YOU’RE AFTER A GIRLY WEEKEND WITH EXTRA SPECIAL PAMPERING, OR A COUPLES’ RETREAT COMPLETE WITH RELAXATION AND SECLUSION, LOOK NO FURTHER THAN THE CLUB AND SPA

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theclubandspa is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for indulgence, just minutes away from the heart and soul of Birmingham city centre. Drift away in the Dry Floatation chamber, where just twenty minutes is said to equate to three hours’ sleep. Relax, unwind and chill out in the sumptuous surroundings.

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The Champagne nail bar is a girl’s playroom full of colour, bright lights, music and great company. Sip a glass of LaurentPerrier and catch up with your girlfriends whilst taking advantage of the manicure and pedicure treatments. Creative Nails are a specialist partner of theclubandspa; let them buff, gloss and soften your hands and nails for a special occasion, or just to make you feel great. If you’d like to try something different, try the Shellac Nail™ decorations.

Lasting for 14 days, Shellac Nails™ are great for girls on the go. The Champagne nail bar can be hired out for corporate clients, the perfect girly evening or the ultimate hen party.

theclubandspa’s new massage treatments don’t use the traditional hot stones; they use Lava shells. The smoothed tiger clamshells from the Philippines are self-heating, staying warm for the entire treatment. As the therapist glides the marine polished shells over your body, you will drift into a state of sheer relaxation and calm. theclubandspa at The Cube is a place full of fun and sheer indulgence. Whatever you look for in a spa day, whether you want a pampering day with your friends or a romantic getaway with your loved one, theclubandspa can provide everything you need to make it perfect for you.

• For more information visit www.theclubandspabirmingham.co.uk or call 0121 643 2200.

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theclubandspa’s Richard Dakin, Heart FM breakfast presenter Ed James, ITV’s Lucy Kite and Capital FM’s Dan Kelly

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AMBASSADORS ITV Central’s Lucy Kite is joining theclubandspa to become their very own yoga instructor. Lucy’s therapeutic classes will take place every Wednesday morning, which means you can enjoy her sessions first thing before watching her on ITV Central in the evening. Lucy practises the Hatha Vinyasa approach to yoga, and her enthusiasm at the prospect of teaching in the city is apparent for all to see: “I am thrilled to be part of theclubandspa and am really looking forward to practising yoga with the people of Birmingham. This is not a stretch class; you don’t need to be flexible. We tune into the body, synchronising the movement and breath with amazing results. What’s more, the benefits will overflow into everyday life, ultimately helping you cope better with what life throws at you.”

own music consultant. Dan, a self-confessed fitness fanatic has been going to gyms for years, and says, “you can see faces actually drop when the same old songs come on again.

There’s a fine line; people have to know them but not be sick to death of hearing them. It’s a social thing too; if the music is right, fewer people will use personal headphones and the atmosphere will be much better. I’m really looking forward to working with Richard and the guys at theclubandspa. I’m even going to DJ live for some of the classes!”

Dan will oversee music for all zones including the gym, Champagne nail bar and canal side Private Members’ Bar. They are also creating different tempos for daytime and evening.

The music4 system is state-of-the-art and will guarantee you’ll never hear the same song at the same time from day-to-day, nor the same order of songs ever.

Lucy’s yoga classes make up part of one of the most exciting fitness and relaxation programmes in Birmingham. theclubandspa’s personal trainers are not just about pushing you to reach your physical goals; their personal approach means they will work with you to psychologically and emotionally ensure you grow as an individual, increasing your confidence as well as your physical ability.

Birmingham’s newest and most exclusive gym has also landed Dan Kelly to act as their very

The vision of the perfect gym and spa differs from person to person. theclubandspa have taken on people’s ideals to make theclubandspa a unique experience in Birmingham city centre.

• For more information about the Ambassadors and other classes at theclubandspa, visit www.theclubandspabirmingham.co.uk or call 0121 643 2200.

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THE CLUB AND SPA HAS SOME HIGH PROFILE AMBASSADORS, INCLUDING ITV CENTRAL’S WEATHER GIRL LUCY KITE AND CAPITAL FM BREAKFAST PRESENTER DAN KELLY

FF ER S

TH Y E C OU TR LU RSEEAT L PR B E- A F A O T PE N N D IN G SP O A

SPA UNWIND GIFT VOUCHER £89 (SAVING OF £36)

EX CL US IV E

• 1 FULL BODY EXFOLIATION • 1 REVIVER FACIAL • 1 TRANQUILITY SCALP AND SHOULDER MASSAGE • ALL DAY USE OF THERMAL SUITES • ALL DAY USE OF GYM FACILITIES • A GLASS OF CHAMPAGNE

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Terms and conditions: Valid from January 1 to March 31 2012. Redeemable Sunday to Friday. Lunch is not included but can be booked at an additional cost and provided in the spa lounge. The package includes full use of club facilities as well as spa facilities (salt room, the Rasul and the couples room are not included), any classes must be booked in advance.

Treatments cannot be changed or exchanged for any other treatments or services. The package cannot be transferred onto food items or retail products.

SPA RELAX FOR TWO GIFT VOUCHER

£99 FOR TWO (SAVING £95) • A RASUL MUD TREATMENT FOR TWO • A GLASS OF CHAMPAGNE EACH • ALL DAY USE OF THERMAL SUITES • ALL DAY USE OF GYM FACILITIES Terms and conditions: Valid from January 1 to March 31 2012. Redeemable Sunday to Thursday. Lunch is not included but can be booked at an additional cost and provided in the spa lounge. The package for two includes a Rasul mud treatment, full use of club facilities as well as spa facilities (salt room and couples room not included). Treatments cannot be changed or exchanged for any other treatments or services. The package cannot be transferred onto food items or retail products.

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SPA RELAX FOR ONE GIFT VOUCHER

£59 FOR ONE (SAVING £16) • ONE SPA TREATMENT • A GLASS OF CHAMPAGNE • ALL DAY USE OF THERMAL SUITES • ALL DAY USE OF GYM FACILITIES Terms and conditions: Valid from January 1 to March 31 2012. Redeemable Sunday to Thursday. Lunch is not included but can be booked at an additional cost and provided in the spa lounge. The package for one includes a spa treatment (choice of reviver facial or full body exfoliation), full use of club facilities as well as spa facilities (salt room, couples room and Rasul not included). Treatments cannot be changed or exchanged for any other treatments or services. The package cannot be transferred onto food items or retail products.

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SPA RETREAT GIFT VOUCHER £129 (SAVING £31)

• FULL BODY MASSAGE OR PRESCRIPTIVE FACIAL • A RASUL MUD TREATMENT • ALL DAY USE OF THERMAL SUITES • ALL DAY USE OF GYM FACILITIES • A LIGHT SPA LUNCH • A GLASS OF CHAMPAGNE

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01 21 CA 64 LL 3 22 00

Terms and conditions: Valid from January 1 to March 31 2012. Redeemable Sunday to Thursday. Lunch is provided and must be booked when booking treatments. The package includes a Rasul mud treatment, full use of club facilities as well as spa facilities (salt room and couple room not included), any classes must be booked in advance. Treatments cannot be changed or exchanged for any other treatments or services. The package cannot be transferred onto food items or retail products.

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THE CAR PARK

EXPERIENCE THE AUTOMATED CAR PARK IS A KEY FEATURE OF THE CUBE DEVELOPMENT. ADEE PHELAN’S COLOUR SPECIALIST DOMINIQUE HATELEY HAS THE ENVIABLE DAILY ROUTINE OF PARKING HER CAR AT THE CUBE Dominique Hateley is a Colour Specialist at the Adee Phelan Salon at The Cube. After working as a hairdresser and Colour Specialist for 11 years, she made the move to Adee’s brand new salon. Shortly after beginning work at the salon, Dominique began using the ultimate in car park technology at The Cube.

The Cube’s state-of-the-art car park takes away some of the hassle from your working day. The three-storey underground system is innovative, ultra-modern and the largest of its kind in the UK. Gone are the days of driving around dark underground car parks looking for that extra wide space to ensure no little scratches or scrapes mysteriously appear on your paintwork.

“The car park at The Cube is incredibly easy to use, even for someone who’s not very hitech-minded! You simply swipe your fob at the entrance barrier and drive to your

designated box. Pull in to the car box, get out of the car, and that’s it … simple as that!

“I often leave work after 8pm and I still feel completely safe going to collect my car from the car park. Sometimes, walking across the city at night can be a bit daunting for a woman on her own, but not having to leave the building to get access to my car is a fantastic plus for me. Overall I’m very impressed.”

When collecting your car from the car park at the end of the day, take a seat in the waiting area while your vehicle is retrieved. It only takes a couple of minutes. More importantly, don’t worry about maneuvering around tight corners, your car will be returned to your designated box, ready for you to drive away.

“The most important factor in a car park for me is safety. The car park at The Cube is just brilliant. It’s really easy to use, it’s safe and secure.”

• For more information about contract parking at The Cube, visit www.thecube.co.uk or call 0121 654 9400.

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THE COMPETITION THE CUBE IS NOW OPEN AND IS OFFERING A FANTASTIC PRIZE TO CELEBRATE THE BUILDING COMING TO LIFE

WIN

AT THE CUBE!

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This winter is a very exciting time at The Cube as the magical Christmas season is upon us, Marco’s rooftop restaurant and Hotel Indigo are opening on December 1 and the countdown to the launch of Brazilian restaurant Rodizio Rico and theclubandspa has begun.

To mark this fantastic time, The Cube is giving one lucky reader the chance to enjoy a taste of the exclusive lifestyle with an amazing prize.

To celebrate the opening of the state-of-the-art facilities, theclubandspa is giving readers of The Cube magazine the chance to win a threemonth Platinum membership to theclub (worth more than £250) and a traditional Turkish Rasul mud experience for two people, including use of all facilities in thespa (worth £189). This is your chance to be pampered with a partner or friend, AND enjoy membership for three whole months: what a great start to the New Year! You can read more about theclubandspa on pages 20 and 21.

To be in with a chance of winning, correctly answer this question:

What is the name of the showers used at theclubandspa? (a) Monsoon (b) Typhoon (c) Hurricane Enter online at www.thecube.co.uk Terms and conditions apply.

Closing date for entries is January 31, 2012.

The winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries received and will be notified by post or email. The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence after the closing date will be entered.

Transportation to The Cube is not included in the prize.

Prize consists of one three-month Platinum membership to theclub, worth over £250, plus a Rasul mud experience for two people, including use of all facilities in thespa, worth £189. The prizes must be redeemed on or before end of April 2012, excluding Saturdays and February 14 2012. The prizes cannot be exchanged for any other clubandspa treatment or clubandspa retail products.

Subject to availability. Additional charges are to be settled on departure. The competition is open to UK mainland residents aged 18 years or over only. No cash alternative.

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COMING SOON

AT THE CUBE BRAZILIAN CUISINE IS COMING TO THE CUBE WITH RODIZIO RICO, OPENING EARLY 2012

www.thecube.co.uk