SCENE (Essex) April 12 by SCENE Publishing ltd

SCENE APRIL 2012

Essex’s Luxury Lifestyle Bible

CHIGWELL: THE LOCAL SHOPPING DESTINATION THAT HAS IT ALL.

ESSEX’S GRANDEST DESIGNS: SHOWCASING ESSEX’S LOCAL INTERIOR EXPERTS

BE CAPTIVATED COULD THE CHEVROLET CAPTIVA BE THE BEST CHEVY TO GRACE UK SHORES SO FAR?

LORD SUGAR

OFFERS A £250,000 INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY IN THE NEW SERIES OF THE APPRENTICE

£1.75

April 2012

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LUIGI FUNEDDA, OWNER OF NEW SARDINIAN RESTAURANT, IL BACIO. SCENE 1

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3 1 3 1 H i g h S t r e e t , B r e n t w o o d , E s s e x C M 1 4 4 R Z • Te l e p h o n e 0 1 2 7 7 2 2 3 0 1 6 • E - m a i l b r e n t w o o d @ c l i v e . c o m • w w w. cSCENE live .com

The most chic restaurants in Essex now open

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Mayor Of Redbridge’s Celebration

Charity Ball

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ESSEX

The

Publishing Directors James Green James Nicol

Editor Alexander Heron alexander@scenemagazines.com

Design Editor David Itzcovitz david@scenemagazines.com

In aid of the Mayor’s Appeal 2011/2012

Supporting the Multiple Sclerosis Society Redbridge & Newbridge School PFA

Saturday 21st April 2012 The Prince Regent Hotel 7.00pm for 7.30pm

Tickets £50 per head including dinner and cabaret Live entertainment from Craig Neil To book tickets Contact: 020 8708 2297 The Mayor’s office, Town Hall, High Road, Ilford, Essex, IG1 1DD

Newbridge School PFA

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Account Manager Jo Fraser jo@scenemagazines.com

Writers Dezi Markou Lauren John Danielle Pomerance Nicholas Chowdrey

Accounts Wink Aviss accounts@scenemagazines.com

Distribution Scene Magazine is distributed to selected homes in Essex, including Buckhurst Hill, Chigwell, Epping, Theydon Bois, Loughton, Wanstead, Woodford Green, South Woodford, Chingford, Billericay and Brentwood... SCENE can also be found in hotels, local restaurants, cafes, spas, hairdressing salons, retail outlets and private health and golf clubs. Online You can also follow SCENE on twitter and become a fan on our facebook page. twitter.com/SCENEMAGAZINES facebook.com/SMAG1 Scene Magazine is a monthly lifestyle publication of Scene Publishing Ltd. Registered office Cambridge House, 27 Cambridge Park, London, E11 2PU. Company number: 07125177. Whilst every effort to ensure that everything we print in Scene Magazine is factually correct and up-todate, we cannot be held responsible if factual errors occur. Please check any quoted product specifications with your supplier before purchase. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. Published by SCENE Publishing LTD 107-111 Fleet Street London EC4A 2AB Tel: 020 7936 9464 Email: info@scenemagazines.com Web: www.scenemagazines.com

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Just InterI InterIors

ClassiC & Contemporary 118a High Street, Epping, Essex, CM16 4AF

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01992 576656

justinteriors@hotmail.com

www.justinteriors.net

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SCENE In Essex The April update from local businesses, news, what’s going on and gossip across the Essex County this month. SCENE In The News The headlines from across Essex, charities, fashion awards and more have made it into this month’s News.

Business With A Bite The focus this month is Beckenham High Street. We take a look at the stores and all they have to offer the local residents. Your Fired! This month join us as we catch up with Lord Sugar to profile his career and look at the latest season of the Apprentice. Charming Chigwell We explore the fantastic shop’s and restaurants that the village of Chigwell has to offer in this months high street feature.

Beauty Spy Pure Medi-Spa in South Woodford feature in this month’s Beauty Spy as well as some fantastic products. Word Of Mouth Ash Parmar of Smile Design by Ash in Chigwell gives us his top dental tips in his Word of Mouth Feature. As Seen In SCENE We take a look at the latest women’s trends coming fresh from the catwalk to the high street for the Spring. Women’s Fashion New to the Scene Fashion team this month, Dezi Markou, on what you need to wear this month. Stacey’s Smile Scene interviews Essex celebrity, Stacey Solomon, who reveals all about her glowing white smile.

Motors Be captivated by this month’s car of choice, the good looking, practical and economical Chevrolet Captiva.

Best Of British Keeping it British, this month we dine at Wanstead’s Queens British Steak House for some good ole British grub! Grand Designs We catch up with the interior design guru and the host of Grand Designs, the one and only Kevin McCloud.

Essex’s Grandest Designs Stuck for interior design inspiration? Take a look a look through this month’s interior feature. My SCENE We catch up with Luigi Funedda who has recently opened his latest Sardinian restaurant Il Bacio in Buckhurst Hill SCENE 11

SCENE IN ESSEX

FROM THE BEST PLACES TO SHOP, THE LATEST PLACES TO GO AND THE VERY LATEST PRODUCTS, WE TAKE A MONTHLY LOOK AT WHAT MUST BE SCENE IN ESSEX...

MARTY’S KOSHER COLLECTION AT THE WHITEBULL BRASSERIE Marty Thornton is the iconic and flamboyant pop artist who is fast gaining notoriety with his latest collection at the Whitebull Brasserie in Loughton. Few artists could claim to be in the collections of such a distinguished line-up of celebrities as that claimed by Marty. His works are owned by Madonna, Ivana Trump, the legendary Barbara Hulanicki of Biba fame, Kate Moss, Joanna

FRESH AND FRUITY BEAUTY. Get fresh and fruity with a burst of Burt’s Bees Refreshing Lip Balm with Pink Grapefruit, offering a revitalising experience with every application. This energising lip balm contains Sunflower and Coconut Oil for a rush of hydration to leave lips replenished and moisturised. Nutritious oil from the seeds of tropical Pink Grapefruit, rich in Vitamin C and E helps to invigorate your lips, whilst adding a sweet citrus flavour. Burt’s Bees new Refreshing Lip Balm with Pink Grapefruit is 100% natural, priced at £3.69 and available from www.burtsbees.co.uk.

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Lumley, Molly Parkin and Debbie Moore of Pineapple Studios to mention a few. For the festival of Passover Marty is launching his latest Passover inspired Kosher Collection of Pop Art. Now on exhibition at the White Bull Brasserie Loughton. 2 Centric Parage, 200 High Road Loughton, IG10 1DN 020 8508 0806

WHY NOT READ... TOWIE fans are likely to rejoice in this new book by Becci Fox (the pen name of a real-life Essex girl hailing from Buckhurst Hill). Confessions of an Essex Girl is a seemingly scandalous book from Pan Macmillan. Becci shares six dramatic months in her life as she and her friends have fun, fall in love, handle heartache and betrayal, and even plan a big fat Essex wedding.

EASTER TREATS AT MAMMALINA

Italians love to celebrate and their favourite way to celebrate is by eating lots of good food! A trip to Italy at this time of year sees the pastry shops, supermarkets and Chocolatiers full of Colomba Cake (very similar to the Panettone) shaped in one of the most recognisable symbols of Easter: the dove. Beside the Colomba are brightly wrapped Uova di Pasqua (chocolate eggs) and Campane di Cioccolato (chocolate bells), all of which contain a surprise small gift! This year MammaLina Delicatessen is selling both the Colomba (with a percentage of all sales going to charity) and Campane di Cioccolato. These have all been made by MammaLina’s artisan Chocolatier in Molise and are the perfect gift or treat to help you celebrate Easter in true Italian style! For more information, please contact MammaLina, 176C Queens Road, Buckhurst Hill, IG9 5BD 020 8506 1610 www.mammalina.co.uk

MUSIC, LAUGHTER AND FAMILY FUN THIS SPRING! The Queen’s Theatre, Hornchurch, is excited to present two new productions this Spring – The Merchant of Venice from 20 April – 12 May and Peter Pan from 26 May – 16 June. Packed with song, thrills and laughter, both shows star members of ‘cut to the chase’, the Queen’s Theatre’s professional award-winning group of actor-musicians. For press tickets, further information, images and interviews please contact Nadiah Scammell, Press Officer, on 01708 462395 or email nadiah@queens-theatre.co.uk Listings information: The Merchant of Venice | 20 April – 12 May | £15 - £24 Peter Pan | 26 May – 16 June | £12 - £21 The Queen’s Theatre, Billet Lane, Hornchurch RM11 1QT

BBC GOOD FOOD SHOW SPRING AT BLUEWATER 12TH – 15TH APRIL Organisers have announced that tickets to the brand new BBC Good Food Show Spring are available to buy. The Show will follow the format of the flagship BBC Good Food Show Winter bringing some of the most popular features to the brand new Events Venue at Bluewater. This includes the best producers of fine food and drink, ultimate suppliers of the best kitchenware as well as live cookery demonstrations in the Supertheatre from some of the UK’s best loved chefs including James Martin’ The Show will also bring to life some of the nation’s favourite TV programmes. Saturday Kitchen Live sessions hosted by James Martin will feature celebrity guests to give us their food heaven and food hell. MasterChef will be brought to life with live sessions from John Torode, Gregg Wallace and a whole host of past contestants and winners. For Tickets please visit BBCGoodFoodShowSpring.com or call 0844 581 1362 SCENE 13

CELEBRATE THE ARRIVAL OF SPRING AT TABLE 7 FOR FREE!

Mild though it was, Table 7 just couldn’t wait for winter to end this year because they have so many fantastic new dishes to welcome in the spring season on their brand new menu available now. Try their amazing spring lamb: herb crusted rack of lamb served with pea puree, sweet potato and a lightly minted jus.

For the fish lovers they have pan roasted fillet of salmon topped with a crab meat crust served with grilled asparagus and a beetroot salsa. As well as all the great new spring dishes, they have also kept some of their classic signature dishes and added a twist including their giant Mozambique king prawns, grilled whole and served with fresh homemade chilli mango salsa. Also still on the menu is the chicken breast stuffed with wild mushrooms and creamy mash potato, wrapped delicately with Prosciutto di Parma, served on wilted spinach

and dressed with a veal jus. To celebrate the arrival of spring, Table 7 has extended their Buy One Get One Free offers and they are now available Sunday to Thursday for lunch and dinner (pre booking only, call for full details). So come and join Table 7 this April; they have done their spring cleaning and look forward to having you come and relax in the outdoor seating areas to enjoy some al-fresco dining or just chill with friends for drinks. Table 7, 1 Church View Buildings The Green, London E4 7EL 020 8524 8438

THE TOOLEY & FOSTER PARTNERSHIP 1892 - 2012 The Tooley & Foster Partnership, a well known firm of Architects and Interior Designers, has been in continuous practice since its foundation in 1892 and is celebrating its 120th anniversary this year: it is now one of the longest standing practices in the UK. It has always been based in Buckhurst Hill, as well as having at different times branch offices in the West End and France. It is a credit to the many Partners who have been involved that it has survived two World Wars and several recessions. The main thrust of the Practice’s current work includes: • Care and Extra Care Homes - Anjulita Court in Bedford won a Pinders Healthcare Design Award in 2010 and is a Regional Finalist of the 2012 Civic Trust Awards. • Educational projects - including the remodelling and refurbishment of Tower Hamlets College to form The National Skills Academy for Financial Services, which won a RIBA/LSC Award in 2009. A new 800 seat concert auditorium for Saffron Walden High School is currently on site. • Sustainable Design – New Cranes Court in Basildon, which is nearing completion, is one of the first housing schemes designed to Level 6 of the Code for Sustainable Homes in Eastern England. In this Olympic year, when a number of their buildings are being used as either Olympic Training Centres or for actual events, The Tooley & Foster Partnership is looking forward to the next 120 years with optimism. www.tooleyfoster.com

WARDROBE MISTRESSES

Wardrobe Mistresses is located at 122 High Street, Epping, CM16 4AG. They have moved after two years of trading from their Station Road premises around the corner. They decided despite the recession and the tough economic climate to relocate to larger premises, which is no mean feat as so many other shops are suffering and closing their doors. Wardrobe Mistresses is a ladies boutique which caters for a wide age range. They stock everything 14 SCENE

from casual wear to evening wear and a full range of accessories. Brands stocked include: Charli, Molecule 01 fragrance, Vero Moda, Vila, Rare, Reverse, Yumi, Maggie & me and Trinny & Susannah shapewear, with new brands being added regularly. They offer a relaxed, informal and friendly shopping environment, Opening hours are Monday – Saturday 10am – 5.30 pm. For more information you can contact Kate or Lois on 01992 577408

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Glamourous After Parties

Live Acts

Top DJ Sets

Unparalleled all day entertainment for everyone! For more information or to book tickets visit

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C H A M PA G N E

R E I M S - F R A N C E

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interior design

Established since 2000 ID Interior Design undertakes interior furnishing commissions in both the UK and overseas. We work with private clients, designers, property developers and for the rental market.

Our professional made bespoke soft furnishings include:

Interlined Hand Made Curtains • Blinds • Lambrequins Swags & Tails + Cushions & Throws • Headboards • Upholstery & Re-upholstery Sofa and individual chairs • Bespoke Wooden & Metal Poles • Wallpaper Individual pieces of furniture and gift ideas ID Interiors Design offers a friendly service, offering bespoke solutions, for curtains or blinds for one room to a complete residence we can help you get the desired results for your home

Open 9am to 5pm Mon - Fri / 10am to 4pm Sat 143 Heath Park Road • Gidea Park • Romford • Essex • RM2 5XJ • T: 01708 458 256

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SCENE IN THE OLYMPIANS AT FOREST SCHOOL

FOREST SCHOOL, the nearest Independent school to the Olympic Park, hosted GB Team athletes, Anyika, Abigail and David on 13th March. Reception through to Year 9 pupils were taken through a series of exercises in aid of boosting their Olympic Scholarship fundraising efforts. The Forest School Olympic Committee,

in association with Sports4All, ensured that all pupils, over 700 of them, enjoyed an amazing day of fun and fitness and were able to meet the athletes up close and personal and listen to their experiences are reaching the top of their sport and their dreams of being at the London 2012 Games.

THE EYES HAVE IT

“The only glasses I have to think about now are which sunglasses to wear” said Susan Byszewski speaking about how corrective laser eye treatment has changed her life. “I wore contact lens for years and was almost blind without them. My sight after treatment was amazing.”

Susan talked about her life changing experience at a special information evening co-hosted by Loughton optician, Scher & Ward, and Advanced Vision Care, based in Harley Street. Vision correction treatment is simple, pain free and nonintrusive. All procedures are affordable and money saving offers available. For further information, book an initial consultation with Glen Ward on 0208 508 5852 or visit www. advancedvisioncare.co.uk

HEADLINES FROM THIS MONTH’S ESSEX NEWS TURN YOUR CLOTHES INTO CASH & HELP BEAT KIDS CANCER

The UK’s leading cancer charity, Cancer Research UK, is partnering with brands-for-less retailer, TK Maxx, for the fifth time for the UK’s biggest clothes collection, raising valuable funds for research into beating kids’ cancer. Give Up Clothes For Good has already raised a staggering £10 million worth of donations!

Local Essex guy and girl, James ‘Arg’ Argent and Lauren Goodger, support the campaign. The image sees The Only Way Is Essex duo transforming their image to become Lord and Lady of the Manor. The campaign runs from 1st-30th April with special donation bags available free in all TK Maxx stores from late March.

JPF AWARD WINNERS FROM EPPING FOREST YOUTH COUNCIL

Members of Epping Forest Youth Council were among 115 young people from across Essex who were presented with prestigious Jack Petchey Achievement Awards at the annual ceremony held at the Civic

Theatre in Chelmsford on Monday 5th March. The event honoured Achievement award winners aged 11-25, who received medallions to go with their framed certificate and a cheque for £200 which have already been presented. They were nominated by their peers and leaders, winning awards for a variety of achievements but mostly for doing their best. Prize money has mainly been spent on extra resources and equipment.

DO YOU HAVE A STORY FOR US? WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU E-MAIL OUR NEWSDESK TODAY: NEWSDESK@SCENEMAGAZINES.COM SCENE 17

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY HAYLEY HUNT HAYLEY HUNT OF REPTON PARK BASED HUNT PROPERTY SERVICES CELEBRATED HER BIRTHDAY IN MARCH WITH A PARTY IN HER HOME TOWN OF CHIGWELL. THE DAYTIME EVENT TOOK PLACE ON A SUNNY SUNDAY AFTERNOON, WITH FRIENDS, FAMILY AND CHILDREN PARTYING THE DAY AWAY EATING, DRINKING AND CELEBRATING HAYLEY’S BIRTHDAY IN STYLE.

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Pictures by Azeem Jiwaji, Memorable Portraits

BUSINESS WITH ABit e

t was a Privilege. That’s the verdict of the people who, late last month, attended a unique networking event at the Saravanaa Bhavan, a vegetarian restaurant in Ilford.

The brainchild of cosmetic dentist, Ash Parmar, principal dentist at Smile Design by Ash in Chigwell, the Privilege Partners scheme brought together representatives of over 60 local businesses and trades within a radius of ten miles. Ash, who opened his state of the art dental practice a year ago, said “There is an abundance of talent right here on our doorsteps. I came across some brilliant people who helped me plan, build and market the dental practice. As I was telling people about them, I was informed about even more people who would go on to provide me with their excellent services. So the idea was born. We could help each other in a direct and practical way by using a Privilege Card that acts as a personal recommendation.” The next stage was to attract members to the scheme, which is almost totally exclusive to avoid competition between companies. In less than a year, Ash’s vision to get 50 companies signed up was exceeded. The first run of 2,000 Privilege cards were taken up and since then a further 3,000 have been produced. Companies involved offer a wide range of

services. Card display holders are appearing in local shops and oﬃces, and the website is currently attracting a lot of attention. James Green, Managing Director of Scene, was on hand to see for himself. “Ash is a great guy with a fantastic business sense. I expect this scheme to go from strength to strength.”

The networking event proved extremely popular and Ash’s passion for the scheme was infectious. Tony Bhambhra, Marcomedia Solutions, said “I commend Ash for his vision in giving local businesses a platform to work together which also benefits the local community, particularly in this economic climate. The Privilege Card scheme is full of offers and exclusive benefits for everyone. We are pleased to be members.” David Cowell from Promo2U said “This card scheme is an excellent example of how businesses can collaborate to deliver real value added services to their customers and supply partners. Key to its success is the quality of the partner organisations and the wide range of services available.” The Smile Design by Ash Privilege Card entitles users to a great range of offers and exclusive benefits, including dental care, and also allows access to offers from partnering businesses, which come

with a personal recommendation. Ash believes that networking with the right people really works. They bring business to you, and you give business to them. This is underpinned by his membership of two breakfast groups – Epping Forest Business Group, which meets at the Queen Victoria pub in Theydon Bois on Thursdays www.efbg.co.uk and Chigwell Business Group, which meets at Woolston Manor, Chigwell on Fridays www.chigwellbusiness.co.uk Ash’s maxim ‘lets do business together’ through the new Privilege Card Scheme is open to everyone. Just visit www.smiledesignbyash. co.uk/partner-offers, where there is a personal testimony from Ash for every company. Scroll through the list and request a card - just call 020 8500 0544 and take advantage of the benefits straight away. SCENE 21

PSYCHIC & SPIRITUALIST “The only thing you can change about the past is how you feel. By making the right connection, you can understand where you have come from and how you can shape your journey to a better future.” George has performed readings for royalty, celebrities and entrepreneurs from all over the world, who have been astounded and empowered by their experience, as the experience is a combination of Spiritual guidance, ancient healing, and psychic insight, George will perform one to one or telephone readings. I was born in London Hospital in 1970 and was raised in East London, so I am an “East ender”; my Mum established a good reputation as a spiritualist, she was a specialist in palm, tea leaves and Tarot readings, it was a family tradition since the late 1800’s. Our house always had a spiritual energy flowing with incense, candles and readings were happening everyday. At 12 years old, I would practise 3 card Tarot readings with clients who were waiting there turn to see my Mother. I also developed a passion for music, my Father was a musician and I started to play drums at Greek weddings and parties from the age of 13. When I turned 17 I worked in the Greek Taverna “plate smashing scene”, I had an opportunity to practice my music and also my readings for different people. I became very popular with my readings and people would come back, not to smash plates but to have a reading.

On my 21st Birthday I launched on exclusive west London night clubs as a clairvoyant where I would read for celebrities, VIP’s and many other interesting people. In 1997 I had a serious operation. This created a crisis in my life where I had to draw deeply on my spiritual resources. I came through this fire committed to sharing my insights and had to work from home giving online readings during recovery. I was able to support an increasing number of people through their own journeys by using the spiritual knowledge that ran richly through my family’s history. The need for this operation and my subsequent journey of self-discovery also inspired me to focus on healing techniques. I rekindled an ancient colour therapy to enable aura, chakra balance and self connection. These techniques helped me to swiftly heal psychologically and physically, changing my life for the better. I now apply what I have learned from this experience to help others. Many people have been astounded with the results achieved. Although readings are important; spiritual guidance and self connection are essential! To become a practising psychic and a spiritualist is a responsibility that will take many years of dedication. For me it is has become a way of life.

George Valentino www.georgevalentino.co.uk

Credit Card Booking 0800 035 6777 *callers miust be over 18, calls cost £1.50 per minute 22 SCENE

Premium Rate* 0906 636 2222

One to one enquiry line 07916 281 220 (face to face readings)

IL BACIO IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS FRIENDS, FAMILY AND LOCAL BUSINESS OWNERS JOINED LUIGI FUNEDDA AND TEAM TO CELEBRATE THE EAGERLY-ANTICIPATED LAUNCH OF IL BACIO RESTAURANT IN BUCKHURST HILL ON TUESDAY 20TH MARCH. GUESTS WERE WARMLY WELCOMED IN TO THE QUEENS ROAD CHIC AND COSY TRATTORIA-STYLE RESTAURANT TO TRY OUT A SELECTION OF AUTHENTIC SARDINIAN AND ITALIAN CUISINE AND TASTE SOME SARDINIAN WINES AND ITALIAN BEERS. PLATTERS OF ANTIPASTO, PIZZAS, ROAST SUCKLING PIG AND CAKES WERE ON OFFER, WITH FOOD APPEARING FROM THE OPEN KITCHEN THROUGHOUT THE EVENING TO FEED THE HUNGRY GATHERING, WHO ATE, DRANK AND SOCIALISED WELL INTO THE NIGHT.

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Chigwell

CHARMING

CHARLES DICKENS ONCE SAID “CHIGWELL, MY DEAR FELLOW, IS THE FINEST PLACE IN THE WORLD…. SUCH A DELICIOUS OLD INN OPPOSITE THE CHURCH...SUCH BEAUTIFUL FOREST SCENERY...SUCH AN OUT OF THE WAY RURAL PLACE!” THE “DELICIOUS OLD INN” DICKENS REFERS TO IS YE OLDE KINGS HEAD ON THE HIGH ROAD (NOW SHEESH RESTAURANT), BUILT IN 1547 AND BOASTING MUCH HISTORY AND MANY NOTABLE VISITORS THROUGH ITS TIME INCLUDING DICK TURPIN AND WINSTON CHURCHILL. WHILST HAVING THE POPULATION OF A SMALL TOWN, CHIGWELL RETAINS ITS VILLAGE STATUS AND ATMOSPHERE WITH SHOPPING CONFINED TO A FEW PARADES, AND MADE UP OF INDEPENDENT SHOPS, BUSINESSES AND RESTAURANTS. IT IS CONSIDERED BY MANY AS A WEALTHY AND DESIRABLE PLACE IN WHICH TO LIVE AND SINCE THE TV SERIES ESSEX WIVES, JOURNALISTS HAVE CALLED THE AREA (WITH LOUGHTON AND BUCKHURST HILL), THE ESSEX GOLDEN TRIANGLE. SCHOOLS IN THE AREA INCLUDE CHIGWELL PRIMARY SCHOOL, WEST HATCH HIGH SCHOOL AND MOST NOTABLY CHIGWELL SCHOOL, A PUBLIC SCHOOL, AMONG WHOSE MANY FAMOUS PAST PUPILS WERE WILLIAM PENN, WHO LATER WENT ON TO FOUND PENNSYLVANIA IN THE USA. TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR HAS ITS TRAINING GROUND IN CHIGWELL AND A NUMBER OF SPORTING STARS AND CELEBRITIES LIVE HERE AND CAN OFTEN BE SPOTTED OUT AND ABOUT IN THE AREA. 30 SCENE

Chigwell - before

Chigwell - 2012

ATLANTIS TRAVEL

Atlantis Travel are very much enjoying over forty years of providing luxury cruises and holidays at highly competitive prices. Luxury cruises and holidays have become synonymous with Atlantis Travel; they are experts in the field of tailor-made travel and have a first class team of travel consultants who are committed to creating the perfect holiday for you. Clients can book holidays or cruises safe in the knowledge that they will be 100% financially protected as they are ABTA, ATOL and IATA bonded. Atlantis Travel’s customers have been extremely loyal as the team cares passionately about getting it right first time around and are proud to say that they achieve that goal. The team of travel consultants would welcome the opportunity of discussing any of their fabulous cruises or land based holidays with you so please do contact them on 020 8559 9007 (cruise) and 020 8501 0917 (land based), or visit any of their three informative websites www.atlantistravel.co.uk , www.cruiseinluxury.co.uk or www.ecruise.co.uk Atlantis Travel Group, 16 Brook Parade, Chigwell, Essex, IG7 6PF 020 8559 9007

CHIGWELL HEALTH FOODS

Chigwell Heath Foods has been providing an extensive range of natural health products, food supplements, health foods and herbal remedies to the residents of Chigwell and beyond for over 29 years. Everything is catered for here to enhance health and wellbeing including organic food, together with a range of gluten free, wheat free, dairy and sugar free products for allergy sufferers and a range of diabetic foods and foods suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Dried fruits, nuts and seeds are available to buy too along with sports nutrition, natural skincare, baby products, vitamins and natural remedies. There’s a vast selection of gifts on offer including a mouth-watering selection of Belgian chocolates and hampers and baskets are made to order, making ideal gifts for Passover and Easter. Chigwell Health Foods, 5 Brook Parade, Chigwell, Essex IG7 6PB 020 8501 0222

AJS BLINDS

AJS Blinds is a friendly family run business established over 20 years. The showroom is directly opposite Chigwell Tube Station and they have on display an extensive collection of many styles of blinds including the latest products – String Verticals, Vinyl Shutters, and the new collection of Luxaflex Silhouettes. They have just received the latest collection of awning fabrics from Dickson Constant and can offer very competitive prices for their fully cassetted awnings. A 10% discount is currently available on a new Base Plus Awning. Internal shutters are still very much in demand and they continue to update their collections, the latest product being vinyl shutters. The showroom is open each weekday from 9.30 to 5pm and from 10 am to 5pm on Saturdays. A free measuring service is available so call 020 8500 7999 to arrange a no obligation quotation. AJS Blinds Limited, 181 High Road, Chigwell, Essex IG7 6NU, 020 8500 7999 www.ajsblinds.co.uk

DEBRA

Debra Seller opened her Chigwell ladies fashion boutique in 1985 and it has become one of the most popular and talked about boutiques in the area. Debra’s career in the fashion industry started in 1976 and she has a wealth of knowledge and experience in advising and styling her loyal clientele of discerning ladies for all occasions. The boutique stocks a great range of occasion wear and more casual pieces to suit all styles and age ranges. Debra in Chigwell has evolved along with fashion over the years staying current yet with a unique twist, stocking some great designs. The boutique also stocks a good range of accessories to compliment the clothes to best effect. Debra is highly popular with the press and is regularly mentioned in national newspapers. She continues to style many famous faces over the years and is a very popular destination for the TOWIE girls and with customers travelling from afar to receive her personal styling insight and ideas. Debra, 185 High Road, Chigwell, Essex IG7 6NU 020 8500 2913 www.debrachigwell.co.uk

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sheesh

sheesh inhabits one of the most iconic landmark sites in chigwell, at ye olde kings head on the high road. steeped in history, the 600 year old building has been beautifully transformed to offer customers a unique dining experience in luxurious surroundings. it is one of the most-talked about restaurants in the area and a firm favourite with both locals and those travelling from further afield. the main draw of sheesh is its first class turkish food. commitment to quality is reflected in their produce – sourced daily from smithfield, billingsgate and spitalfields markets to guarantee customers are getting the freshest and tastiest ingredients 7 days a week. whilst the menu remains grounded in turkish tradition, there are mediterranean & steak choices to offer something for everyone. exclusive to sheesh diners, the upstairs bar is the ideal place to relax with a drink before or after dinner. the bar is open wednesday to saturday with live music on thursday, Friday & saturday evenings. sheesh, ye olde Kings head, high road, Chigwell, essex, iG7 6Qa 020 8559 1155 www.sheeshrestaurant.co.uk

sQuosh

Fitting nicely into brook parade, sQuosh fashion accessory boutique brings both glitz and glamour to this unique shopping destination, supplying dazzling and elegant fashion accessories to suit all budgets. amongst the wide range of labels stocked includes mischa barton handbags and jewellery ranges from rosie Fox, ottoman hands, lola rose and azuni, to name just a few. sQuosh also sources their own collection of affordable one-off pieces from paris and beyond. they are particularly renowned for a fantastic selection of cocktail rings and special occasion pieces. all this at sQuosh, along with their helpful and friendly team and a free gift wrapping service, particularly enjoyed by their male customers, makes this bijou boutique well worth a visit! squosh, 7b Brook parade, high road, Chigwell, essex iG7 6pe 020 8502 7298

papillon

papillon is a delightful italian restaurant on brook parade and recently celebrated its first birthday in the area. it’s a family run restaurant and has all the qualities of a good authentic italian eatery with its simply prepared food with flavoursome ingredients. open daily for lunch and dinner, the restaurant offers great value lunchtime menus alongside their a la carte selection and they have just introduced a new “speedy lunch” for business workers looking for good food fast. local chigwell resident, harvey manning, sings live at papillon every monday and thursday evening to entertain diners while they eat. For those looking for al fresco dining, there’s a pretty terrace at the back for lunch in the sun – weather permitting of course! ristorante papillon, 13 Brook parade, Chigwell, essex, iG7 6pF 020 8500 6080/6977 www.papillonchigwell.co.uk

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Not your ordinary venue! Have you visited us recently?

Unique design Italian restaurant

Bespoke Indian fine dining restaurant

50%OFF 10%OFF VOLTI NOTI ITALIANO RISTORANTE

To redeem your coupon, please fill out the form with your details on arrival.

T & C’s: Offer open to Scene Magazine readers only. Booking must be made by a resident of a RM, CM or IG postcodes. 50% off food bill only. Valid all week. One voucher per transaction. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. We cannot accept any photo copy or non originals. Valid until 30/04/12. Not valid on bank holiday weekends.

PANNA’S FINEST ASIAN CUISINE

T & C’s: Offer open to Scene Magazine readers only. Booking must be made by a resident of a RM, CM or IG postcodes. 10% off food bill only. Valid Tuesday-thursday. One voucher per transaction. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. We cannot accept any photo copy or non originals. Valid until 30/04/12. Not valid on bank holiday weekends.

FREE

TAKE-AWAY TAKE-AWAY ORDER A £7.99 PIZZA

T & C’s: Offer open to Scene Magazine readers only. Booking must be made by a resident of a RM, CM or IG postcodes. Valid for 1 game for up to 6 people. Lanes must be pre-booked & subject to time restrictions, promotion lane availability. One voucher per transaction. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. We cannot accept any photo copy or non originals. Valid until 30/04/12. Hand coupon in at reception & fill out form to validate the offer. Subject to change without prior notice. Not valid on bank holiday weekends.

T & C’s: Offer open to Scene Magazine readers only. Booking must be made by a resident of a RM, CM or IG postcodes. Deliveries are restricted to a max 4 miles from The City Pavilion. Valid for collection only in Panna’s, on orders of £20 upwards to collect your free *70cl Cobra or 1.5L coca cola. One voucher per transaction. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. We cannot accept any photo copy or non originals. Valid until 30/04/12. Not valid on bank holiday weekends.

BOWL FOR FREE AT ROLLERBOWL

luxury conference and banqueting hall at its best!

ORDER OVER £20 & GET A FREE 70cl COBRA OR 1.5L COCA COLA

One of the largest bowling centre in the UK

AND GET A FREE PIZZA OR PASTA

T & C’s: Offer open to Scene Magazine readers only. Booking must be made by a resident of a RM, CM or IG postcodes. Deliveries are restricted to a max 4 miles from The City Pavilion. Valid for collection from Volti Noti. Get the cheapest pizza or pasta for free. One voucher per transaction. Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. We cannot accept any photo copy or non originals. Valid until 30/04/12. Not valid on bank holiday weekends.

The City Pavilion Car park. 650 FREE car park spaces

Within The City Pavilion, Collier Row Road, Collier Row, Romford, RM5 2BH. T. 020 8924 4000

WWW.THECITYPAVILION.CO.UK

SCENE 33

Beauty S py PURE Medi-Spa Brow Bar PURE Media-Spa is offering the ultimate eyebrow experience at their salon in South Woodford. My brows hadn’t been tended to for months, other than the odd bit of plucking here and there, so they were in much need of some attention. I started off with a consultation, my therapist discussing the perfect shape for my face and the various processes available. Eyebrows can be waxed, threaded, tweezed, trimmed and tinted to achieve the perfect brow shape and style. My brows were threaded – this gives the desired shape. A bit of tweezing and then we agreed on a tint which suited my hair and skin colouring. I wanted a natural look. I was shown my brows throughout the process so that they weren’t shaped or tweezed too much! After my desired brow was achieved, they were pencilled to give a more defined look. The PURE Medi-Spa Brow Bar also offers advice on a Botox lift for the eyebrows, to raise the area slightly

Dressing Table

Spring has certainly sprung at Chanel, with the launch of their new nail colours, named after months of the year. Le Vernis in April is a hybrid of autumnal berry red with a hint of Spring’s pastel trend. Trust Chanel to help you ease yourself into a new season with style and giving our nails a look to match the months! Available at authorised stockists nationwide.

34 SCENE

and define the eyes. They also offer semi-permanent make-up for the brow. This is ideal if you’re lacking in the brow department or if you’re seeking a more pronounced and long-term effect. The Brow Bar team know exactly how to work with their clients to give the best eyebrow look for them. I was advised to have maintenance on my brows every 2-3 weeks to keep them tidy and looking their best. It’s important to do this to avoid losing the shape and colour. PURE Medi-Spa isoffering their Brow Bar service at £29 instead of £39 throughout April. PURE Medi-Spa, 9 Chigwell Road, South Woodford, London E18 1LR 020 8989 1822 www.puremedispa.co.uk

Bathroom

Cabinet

Exfoliating your skin can make a massive difference to how it looks and feels. By exfoliating, you are getting rid of dead skin cells and stimulating renewal which leads to brighter, smoother skin. Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant is a multiaward winning, unique, ricebased, enzyme powder exfoliant which produces instant results. Dead cells are tackled and uneven skin pigmentation is effectively dealt with. Available at FAKINit! Loughton and authorised stockists nationwide

Word ofMout h

ASH’S

Ash Parmar Leading Extreme Makeover Cosmetic Dentist at Smile Design By Ash

FREE SCANNING X-RAY AND CONSULTATION WORTH £95 I would like to invite Scene readers, or their family and friends suffering with gaps in the mouth for a free initial consultation. We will take a scanning X-ray to review bone levels available in the jaws, as well as digital photographs to review your dental condition. Advice can then be given on all options including bridges, dentures and implants.

ES COSMETIC DENTUR have d an th tee g in If you have miss eds replacing, an old denture that ne nture options de then review all your entional plastic nv co fer of We . carefully strength gh hi , es ur nt de c) yli (acr chromium t al ob (c metal reinforced on attachment dentures), and precisi using a brilliant dentures. I have been ce 1994. If you denture technician sin want comfortable, well ﬁtting and very natural dentures, then come and see us.

THE PRIVILEGE CARD

We have launched a brand new wa to save money. Find out more abo y our unique Privilege Card and visiut t www.Smiledesignbyash.co.uk/ privilege for special offers via this scheme and an introduction to companies personally recommended.

IMPLANTS If you want a FIXED option to replace missing teeth, then dental implants is often your best option. The treatment is comfortable and is carried out under local anaesthetic. The healing time for the implants within the bone is 2-6 months, after which you can have the treatment ﬁnished.

ENJOYING YOUR FOOD

Food is one of the pleasures of However, many people have life. loose, ill ﬁtting dentures or indeed ma ny in the mouth with no replacem gaps of the teeth! By wearing an uppent denture, covers up the roof of er the mouth – this is where there are sensors and temperature sensortaste This is why having implants is s. so much better – your palate is completely free for you to eat and drink whatever you want!

To book a complimentary initial consultation to meet Extreme Makeover cosmetic dentist, Ash Parmar, call 020 8500 0544 or visit www.smiledesignbyash.co.uk SCENE 35

WITHOUT PREJUDICE Without Prejudice Menswear Collection was the brainchild of two British brothers who, having worked in the fashion industry since leaving school, spotted a gap in the market for a quality menswear tailoring brand. Launched originally as a tailoring specialist, the brand has now evolved into a full lifestyle collection that includes shirts, knitwear, jeans and shoes. They aim to create inspiring, quality, stylish pieces that will help to distinguish their customer in a crowd. They focus their attention on searching out and only using the finest European fabrics available whilst only manufacturing within Europe to create a product strong on attention to detail with their very own unique British Twist. Drawing on inspiration from the 1960’s when Britain was starting to teach the world how to dress correctly, Without Prejudice adds their own modern outlook to create signature pieces each season. Available at Santa Fe, 119 High Street, Wanstead E11 2RL 020 8518 8922 www.santafemenswear.co.uk

GHD STYLE GHD have developed a new range of styling products designed to be used alongside their heat styling tools. They have been created to both complement the tools and protect the hair from the heat of the tools. These products protect and style the hair without weighing it down, so your style looks and stays fresh all day. Amongst the new range is the GHD Style Heat Protect Spray which uses their exclusive Heat Protection System enabling you to maximise your style through heat. It’s ideal for all hair types as the lightweight spray helps leave hair looking and feeling smoother. GHD Protect Spray is a nourishing defence against the effects of heat styling and should be applied to hair before blow drying or using styling irons. The spray creates an invisible shield around the cuticle, thus preventing heat damage and keeping moisture firmly locked in. Maintaining hair moisture helps increase elasticity during the heat styling process, as well as improving shine and static control. Available from Tikadi salons: Saddlers House, Coppice Row, Theydon Bois, Essex, CM16 7ES 01992 815700 and 146-148 High Street, Ongar, Essex, CM5 9JH 01277 366775 www.tikadi.co.uk

S EEN IN SCENE

THERE’S NO CHANCE OF YOU MISSING A TRICK OR A TREND AS SCENE MAGAZINE’S RESIDENT FASHIONISTA SCOURS THE AREA’S BEST BOUTIQUES, SALONS AND INTERIORS STORES TO BRING YOU THIS MONTH’S MUST BUYS..

D185 PERFUME Chigwell-based ladies fashion boutique, Debra, has added another string to their wellestablished and successful clothing and accessories shop bow, with the launch of a bespoke and specially created fragrance called D185 “Forever For Andy”. Exclusively available through their shop and online via their website, D185 Forever for Andy was created in memory of a very special friend, and the D185 refers to Debra’s name and location on Chigwell’s High Road. It is a sophisticated and light perfume featuring musk and jasmine base notes, perfect for both daytime and evening, and comes packaged in a sleek and stylish white atomiser bottle in a beautiful presentation box. D185 is a personal, unique and imaginatively created fragrance. D185 is available to buy at Debra, 195 High Road, Chigwell, Essex IG7 6NU 020 8500 2913 www.debrachigwell.co.uk 36 SCENE

GLAM ROCK GLAM ROCK brings forth all the allure of chic, metropolitan living with its watch and jewellery lines. The exquisite pieces are alive with expressive colour, innovative style and flawless execution. Inspired by the glitzy and vivacious lifestyle of Miami, renowned designers, Enrico Margaritelli and Isabelle Maujean, combined Italian creativity and industry expertise to create a sophisticated line of luxury timepieces that showcases global high fashion and luxury. All collections focus on bringing forth a sophisticated mix of quality choices and aesthetic taste. The greatest care is taken in assuring that Glam Rock accessories and the brand itself exude excellence in every detail and every style. GLAM ROCK addresses a demanding clientele that has no geographic or cultural boundaries. The brand incorporates the values of a stylish and dynamic lifestyle, expressed through evolving inspirational watch collections. Available at Emson Haig 305/307 High Road, Loughton, Essex IG10 1AH and 258 Lakeside Centre, West Thurrock Way, Grays, Essex RM20 2ZH www.emsonhaig.com

Lashes

SEMI-PERMANENT

“

AN ESTABLISHED GP-LED CLINIC WITH 6 SKIN, LASER AND NAIL CARE THERAPISTS ALL TRAINED TO THE HIGHEST LEVEL

LATE NIGHT & WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE FOR BOTOX & FILLERS

I want fuller lashes but I don’t know what the safest and best method is for me.”

There are many new lash products on the market and each of them is suitable for different occasions. Increasing the volume of your lashes is a great way to enhance your eyes and making your eyes stand out more is said to make a woman more attractive and feel more confident. For a one-off event, sometimes strip lashes are the best. They can be applied quickly in the salon and then removed at the end of the night without too much fuss and they come in a variety of colours, themes and lengths. For those looking for something more permanent, the semi-permanent Lavish Lashes are ideal. It takes about two hours to apply them and the therapist will attach individual false lashes to your own with specially-formulated glue, allowing them to stay on until your normal lash falls out, which is about two months. This means you can shower, exercise, party through the night or go on holiday without worrying something may fall off or come unstuck! The maintenance of semi-permanent lashes is something people can worry about but it’s as simple as getting your nails done and often cheaper. If kept up regularly i.e. every two-three weeks, you can maintain those fluttering fabulous lashes all year round. In addition to the Lavish Lashes, you can also try the new Image Liner which helps boost your own lash growth thus gradually allowing you to develop your own natural longer and healthier lashes. The full Image product range is available to purchase at PURE Medi-Spa. SEMI-PERMANENT LASHES NORMALLY £72 FOR A FULL SET NOW £49 WITH INFILLS AT ONLY £20 STRIP LASHES NORMALLY £30 NOW ONLY £15 AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT APRIL

SEMI-PERMANENT LASHES NORMALLY £72 FOR A FULL SET NOW £49 WITH INFILLS AT ONLY £20 STRIP LASHES NORMALLY £30 NOW ONLY £15 AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT APRIL

A CLINIC SYNONYMOUS WITH QUALITY USING ONLY THE BEST PRODUCTS

BRINGING THE BEST OF HARLEY STREET TREATMENTS CLOSER TO HOME laser hair removal

fillers

botox

thread vein removal

SKIN PEELS MASSAGE semi permanent make up

teeth whitening

waxing

THREADING

acrylic and gel nails

For all your beauty and aesthetic needs 020 8989 1822 www.puremedispa.co.uk 9 Chigwell Road, South Woodford, London, E18 1LR SCENE 37

New

INTRODUCING THE BROW AND LASH

INFO@TOTALFITNE55.COM

to C hing f

ord

BAR BY ZARISH AT Threading • Wow Brows • Blink & Go Semi Permanent Lash Extensions • Essex Style Lash Extensions • Male Grooming and Make-Up

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125 High Street • Wanstead • London • E11 2RL • 020 8989 1008 • Parking at rear Hugo Boss • James Lakeland • Charli • Barbour • Liu Jo • Armani Jeans • Twin Set

38 SCENE

Women’s Fashion

FASHION EDITOR, DEZI MARKOU, ON WHAT YOU NEED TO WEAR THIS MONTH

We Just Love

Founded by sisters Giulia and Cecilia Maresca, LEMARESCA’s timeless pieces are designed with the modern cosmopolitan woman’s dynamic lifestyle in mind. From tough embellished cuffs, to statement shoppers, totes and shoulder bags, or elegant clutches worthy of the red carpet, every piece in this standout collection rings of effortless glamour and city chic. The collection features ultra-luxe fabrics such as butter-soft calf leather, suede, printed pony skin and snakeskin embellished with fine chain and stud detailing in a colour palette ranging from understated taupe, nude and black to dazzling metallic tones and animal prints. Avaliable from LeMaresca Prices from £150 www.lemaresca.com

Walk This Way

We just can’t wait to step into spring with Gucci’s latest range of shoe designs. Gucci first began using bamboo in its designs during the ‘40s, and this now iconic detail still sets fashion hearts racing. These off-white leather sandals nod to the label’s rich history, drawing on retro inspiration from across the decades. Slip them on with the season’s printed dresses for a masterful mix of classic and contemporary style. Avaliable from Gucci Bamboo-detailed leather sandals £540

The Beauty SCENE

Sleep in Style, Lounge in Luxury

Strip Wax Bar is famed for celeb clientele such as Victoria Beckham and Sienna Miller, have launched a luxurious range of loungewear perfect for taking you from boudoir to bar. The eponymous label consists of 6 styles guaranteed to bring you a touch of irresistible style. Choose from the Racer Back Cami, Scoop T-shirt, Racer Back Chemise, Tie Side Shorts, Tie Side Trousers and the Cami & Short Set. Available in Stretch Silk Satin, the colour palette focuses on chic Pale Mink and Ink Black, in sizes XS to L. Loungewear doesn’t get more luxurious than this! Get yours now from www.stripwaxbar.com/shop

Enhance your natural assets this s/s ‘12 with amazing natural shades. Dip into the peachy keen trend, as this simple yet effective colour tone luminously boosts who you, already are and gently highlights your existing facial structure and shapes. For a slice of the action, indulge in anything from Giorgio Armani Rouge

Lipstick, £23 to Lancome’s Peach Fever Blush, £25.50. ASOS.com

Closet Conﬁdential

Updating your wardrobe with the latest styles doesn’t have to be costly. SCENE Magazine, can transform your old season clothes, into new season trends, for under £20! Yellow, is a huge trend this season, so introduce some sunshine into your closet by jazzing up a pre-owned baby-doll dress from last season with a yellow statement-necklace from Matalan for just £8! Style-Tip: If wearing yellow seems scary, then start with an accessory to help BOOST your confidence! Loving prints? Why not transform an old pair of chinos with a leopard-print belt, £16 from TOPSHOP. This small adjustment helps to keep you up to date with the latest summer-trends whilst saving you money for a rainy day!

SCENE 39

The Signature Smile Difference……

The Latest Technology Signature Smile has the most up to date equipment available. Our 3D CT Scanner gives us unrivalled accuracy in planning implants. We have recently invested in an amazing painless anaesthetic system and a superb dental laser system all with the aim of making your visit as painless and as stress free as possible.

We can offer: • Specialist oral surgery treatment including wisdom tooth extraction that normally require hospital treatment. Avoid those waiting lists! • Cosmetic smile make-overs including minimally invasive veneers and crowns. • Replace missing teeth with full mouth implants and implant retained dentures. • Teeth Whitening • Late appointments available. • Invisible Braces • Sedation carried out by a consultant anaesthetist with over 30 years experience

“Dr Abbas gave me the smile I always wanted. I wouldn’t trust anyone else!” - Stacey Solomon, Presenter of The Love Machine Our principal dentist, Dr Omran Abbas (BDS, LDSRCS (ENG), FFDRCSI) is a GDC registered specialist oral surgeon. This means you are in the safest hands for implants and advanced dental treatments. As veteran of over 1000 implants he likes nothing more than giving people their lives (and smiles!) back.

0208 505 4466

7a Johnston Road, Woodford Green Essex, IG8 0XA

40 SCENE

www.woodfordsmile.com

Stacey Solomon

Can you remember the first time you went to see, Dr Abbas ? I remember the first time I went to see Dr Abbas, I was really, really little and I wasn’t nervous as I didn’t know what the dentist was and I haven’t ever been nervous since as he was so good. How important do you think it is to have a perfect smile in showbiz? I just think it’s important to smile! I don’t think it matters how perfect your smile is, as long as you smile all the time. Were you ever scared of going to see Dr Abbas? If so, how did he handle the situation? I was never ever scared of seeing Dr Abbas. He is the best dentist there is and he has always made me feel comfortable. If you hated going to the dentist, what excuse would you try to use to get out of going? I’ve never hated going to the dentist. Do you think that it matters what kind of products you use or do you think they all just do the same thing? I definitely think it matters and I think that Dr Abbas has always advised me on the best products to use - and I’ve always had really healthy teeth. Since becoming, famous have you been pressured into going for the bleached white Simon Cowell look or are you happy staying natural? I love white teeth, so I do use whitening toothpaste, and I have had my teeth whitened a couple of times but nothing too drastic.

has the signature smile!

Americans stereotypically think that Brits have ‘bad teeth’. Does having perfectly straight and white teeth really matter? I don’t think it matters but I do think it looks really, really nice but, as I said before, as long as you are happy, that’s all that really matters. Why have you kept going back to Dr Abbas at Signature Smile? Dr Abbas has been my dentist since I was three years old and I trust him, he always makes me feel comfortable and I’ve never had any problems with my teeth. Do you think you’ll keep going back? Yes, I will always go back to Dr Abbas, twice a year, every year, and so will my children. 0208 505 4466 7a Johnston Road, Woodford Green, Essex, IG8 0XA www.woodfordsmile.com

SCENE 41

DAILY TELEGRAPH AWARDSRgb

GB Electrical superstore: a company which has won numerous awards including independent electrical retailer for the last two years running. From featuring in national newspapers, to a meeting at Downing Street with the prime minister, there seem no boundaries for this Essex family-run electrical store.

The Daily Telegraph announces that even though there are concerns over the state of the economy, there are a number of businesses across the United Kingdom which are growing and generating jobs. One of the 1000 brightest businesses is RGB. Once again, RGB can stand tall and proud of their input into the UK economy and UK employment sector. As stated by the Daily Telegraph, concerns over the health of the economy disguise the fact that thousands of businesses across the UK are growing and generating jobs. To highlight their untold story, the Telegraph has mapped out this vital section of the economy: we have identified 1,000 private and Alternative Investment Marketlisted companies, from farming to IT firms; restaurants and retailers; to construction groups and professional services. 42 SCENE

Our snapshot focuses on companies and partnerships with sales of between £5m and £500m. Many are growing quickly; others are doing so more slowly, often sustained over many years. It means young gazelles sit alongside longestablished companies that have found new ways to grow. The research was compiled with the help of NESTA, the innovation agency, which identified fast growing companies, and business information specialist Dun & Bradstreet (D&B), which verified our information. This is great news for the Telegraph’s 1000 brightest businesses and it is a huge credit to RGB for doing so well through this difficult time and even more so to have reached the top 1000 in the UK. The Directors of RGB, Jason & Dennis Digw,a are both like-minded guys who intend to move forward and upwards with their business. From the launch of their new state of the art store in Ilford, Essex, which opened back in 2009, this has proven a great success for the two brothers. It seems they both have a great head for business and it has shown the UK that, even in tough times businesses can move in the right direction.

Despite the gloom from some high profile retailers, The Telegraph’s 1000 shop owners are proving as popular as ever. As a specialist electrical independent company, RGB has increased its range of products immensely from home cinema systems and LED TV right the way through to a massive range of white goods, including American fridge freezers and washing machines. “The lineup of new 2012 products due out very soon is certainly going to be very eye catching. This year’s products are the best I have ever seen” said Loughton store manager, Dean White. For more information on RGB Loughton call 020 8508 3399 or visit 121 Roding Road, Loughton, Essex IG10 3BS RGB Ilford call 020 8503 1708 visit 543-549 High Road , Ilford, Essex IG1 1TZ.

Men’s Fashion

FASHION EDITOR, DEZI MARKOU, ON WHAT MEN NEED TO WEAR THIS MONTH

essexin’ it up

Not since David Beckham in his first Calvin Klein ad, have Essex Boys been the focus of fashion media but with the hit TV show TOWIE getting great press, the Essex-Boy style has become a trend that has everyone, all over London, taking notes. Logo T-shirts send a message, so naturally, Ralph Lauren is a big hit with the Essex lads, from their famous elbow padded sweatshirts to their tight fit polo shirts, yes, the Granddad Look is a trend that is becoming bigger and better, so guys get familiar and fast! Essex Boys love to make an effort seem effortless. Enter the roll-neck under an open-collar shirt, a new trend making a BIG impact. River Island, SS12 Menswear

Step Up, Look Sharp

Shoes, because whether or not you think they are important, they make a difference. Touching on the Sports-Luxe craze, good quality leather lace-up high tops are a key trend this month, a reliable shoe that’s fashion-forward. Want to make a statement? Nothing screams FASHION more than crocodile-print! You read it here; Men’s footwear is an item that cannot be ignored! Jeff Banks Boots £65. Debenhams.

PS...

“A Bit Of This, A Bit Of That”

Brownie points are awarded to men with the stylish accessories, so lads; carry your money in a nice brown or black leather wallet. Simplicity makes all the difference, along with a trendy money clip, the more basic you are with your wallet, the more fashion-forward you’ll become. Good old-fashioned FOX umbrellas are also a classy and stylish way to peacock. Austin Reed SS12 Menswear Ready to Wear.

Sitting proudly on Woodford High-Road, Jun Qi is a boutique stocking top quality garments and upmarket, hard to find brands, from Franklin & Marshall, Scotch & Soda to Rubber-Duck. This unique find not only stocks high standard fashion labels but offers a very classy, one-onone customer service. Catering for all, it’s fair to offer Jun Qi Boutique of the Month! 172 Woodford High Road, IG8 9EF 0208 559 2122 www.junqionline.com

Business or Pleasure

Unless your job is at an office based in the 90’s leave the boring boxed suits at home. The City of London is becoming aware of the modern-day-man, giving more meaning to the phrase “powertie.” Men are paying attention to detail, so by displaying a tieclip, wearing a chunky watch, and not forgetting the novelty of hosiery; classy socks (without the sports-team logo) Men have been given the chance to express themselves at work. The power of fashion has forced its way into The Square Mile, transforming the black-suit attire, thus freeing more colours, fancier ties with matching pocket-handkerchiefs, waist coats and macs. The list is endless; the choice is yours, dress for success.

SCENE 43

Be Captivated

“When the original Captiva Came to market baCk at the end of 2006 it marked a turning point for the brand, a Clear signal of Chevrolet’s intentions of beComing a mainstream player in the highly Competitive european market.”

ouis Chevrolet would be proud of the latest SUV entry, the New Captiva. Chevrolet’s full blooded compact SUV has been given a major makeover for 2011, including a fresh exterior design to give it an even more confident and dynamic presence; an all-new range of the latest powerful and fuel efficient engines; chassis modifications to improve ride and handling and an upgraded interior. Chevrolet was the creator of the first sports utility vehicle back in the 1930’s with the iconic Suburban, a nameplate that has spanned an incredible seven decades and is still going strong in the U.S. today. The appeal of a vehicle like the Captiva is that it will fulfil its duties on the shopping run one day, it will then take half the football team to the match the next day, followed by some off-roading or a trip onto the beach at the weekend. It is that kind of modern versatility and can-do attitude that encapsulates the spirit of a car like the Captiva, and why it is expected to appeal

44 SCENE

not only to family motorists but to anyone seeking an alternative to the conventional sedan or hatchback, a vehicle which says something about their lifestyle.Wayne Brannon, Chevrolet Europe’s president and managing director, believes now is an excellent opportunity for the new Captiva to make further inroads into market share. “The new model is very much a car of the times, designed for families and their everyday requirements yes, but also for those looking to go out and have some adventures. That’s what an SUV like the Captiva is all about, it makes a statement and for many it’s an extension of their lifestyle. The new Captiva also personifies what the Chevrolet brand is all about, in that it transcends social status or profession, and will, we think, appeal to people from all walks of life.” Strong exterior design The Captiva has won many friends for its exterior design and with the new model it just got even better. A number of features are immediately noticeable when

viewing the new Captiva from the front: the re-shaped and sharply sculptured bonnet, a new larger grille with the Chevrolet signatories, such as the dual opening and the ‘bow-tie’ badge which sits proudly in the middle, and the new cylindrical prism-style headlamps and integrated turn signals on the exterior rear-view mirrors; all up-market features which belie the Captiva’s entry price point. Moving round to the front fenders, the side air-vents now take on a more angular shape to emphasize the new Captiva’s sporting intentions. Viewing the new model from the A-pillars back, the Captiva retains its handsome profile, characterized by a subtle rising shoulder line. All of these design changes contribute to a stronger, more athletic stance but also ensure the new Captiva has a look that is immediately recognizable as one of the new breed of Chevrolets. The re-sculptured and more muscular wheel arches will be able to accommodate wheel sizes of between 17 and 19 inches;

and setting the Captiva’s body off perfectly is a range of exterior colours. Power with efficiency – two new engines It is under the Captiva’s new bonnet that the most far reaching changes have taken place. Two new powerful engines will be available, combined with a new manual or automatic six-speed transmission. They will give Chevrolet customers a smooth, purposeful and efficient drive experience and make the new Captiva one of the most powerful compact SUVs on the European market.The new engine line-up, which is comprised of two turbodiesel variants both of 2.2 litre displacement, incorporates a host of advanced technologies, aimed at delivering an optimal balance of performance and fuel economy. Customers can be sure of getting the latest in diesel technology and efficiency. The new 2.2 litre unit will be available in two power outputs of 163 or 184 hp. This latest generation

engine is an advanced, four cylinder dual overhead cam (DOHC) turbocharged unit featuring a highpressure common rail fuel injection system and variable geometry turbo charger (VGT) with intercooler. Major makeover for interior The Captiva’s upgraded interior now features an array of new finishes and textures, including all-new seat fabrics and improved interior décor appointments like satin chrome rings around the vents, to give the car a more up-market feel and look. Designers have put to good use some of the elements featured on other new Chevrolet models, such as the ice-blue back lighting and the ‘wrap-round’ design of the front fascia which flows into the driver’s and front passenger’s doors, creating the Chevrolet dual-cockpit look. The Captiva’s audio system includes Aux-in and Bluetooth connectivity as standard, with commands integrated within the steering wheel. A seven-inch navigation system is standard on

LTZ models with full European road coverage and integrated rear view camera for parking assistance. The audio speakers have been re-positioned in the doors, while passengers will enjoy their audio experience all the more thanks to a raft of engineering improvements to the interior acoustics, including improved isolation on the windshield, doors and headlining, all of which has resulted in reduced road, wind and engine noise.

the neW stuff

• Two new engines, new manual and automatic sixspeed transmissions • Fresh, more aggressive exterior with distinctive Chevrolet ‘face’ • Enhanced, up-market interior • Featuring Hill Start Assist, electric park brake and rear view camera • Five or seven seat versatility, plus front or allwheel drive • Inventor of the SUV - at home in growing segment SCENE 45

PAPILLON

RISTORANTE ITALIANO DA NINO

Speedy business lunch special! 1 course £7.50/2 courses £11.50 Available Monday-Friday 12-3pm Lunchtime menu “With a smile 2 courses £11.95/3 courses £15.95 and a song” Harvey Manning Available Monday – Saturday sings live every Traditional Italian Sunday roast Monday and lunches Thursday evenings 2 courses £15.95/3 courses £18.95 7-9pm

queensbritishsteakhouse

@QueensBritGrill

63 New Wanstead • London • E11 2SA • T: 020 8530 8861

To book please call 020 8530 8861 or visit www.queensbritishgrill.co.uk

020 8500 6080 020 8500 6977 Open 7 days 13 Brook Parade, Monday to Saturday 12pm – 3pm High Road, Chigwell, 5.30pm – 11pm Essex, IG7 6PF Sunday 12pm-9pm www.papillonchigwell.co.uk

Luigi’s

Italian Restaurant

020 8554 1229 www.luigis-italian-restaurant.co.uk 5 Beehive Lane, Ilford, Essex, IG1 3RG 46 SCENE

Luigi’s is a traditional Italian restaurant, cooking authentic Italian cuisine based in Gants Hill, Ilford. Luigi’s only uses the best ingredients, which is why we import some of our ingredients from Southern Italy, and even grow our own! That way you can ensure, whether it’s our pasta, pizza, spaghetti, or one of our vegetarian options, you will be getting the best quality. Open 7 days a week Monday - Sunday: 12 noon - 4pm and 6pm-11pm

BEST OFBrit ish

QUEENS BRITISH STEAK HOUSE & GRILL

I’d heard some very good things about the Queens British Steak House & Grill so was very much looking forward to my first visit to the Wanstead based restaurant, housed in a converted pub.

I dined on a Wednesday evening and was pleasantly surprised to see a buzzy and busy restaurant of diners when I arrived for my 8pm booking. My dinner guest and I were warmly welcomed and shown to a pretty table in a windowed corner of the room offering privacy and a good outlook. The interior features exposed brickwork, with lowlighting and tea lights flickering around the room. Cool artwork stamps the true British identity of the eatery, with Union Jacks and God Save the Queen prints featured on the walls. A glass-fronted open kitchen enables diners to see their dishes in the making.

Words by Jo Fraser

There’s a great atmosphere to the place with a relaxed and sociable vibe and soft background music adding to the warm ambience. We were presented with a selection of freshly baked and warm rolls and olives to enjoy whilst perusing the vast menu and both opted for the Manager’s signature “Phrilla in Manila” cocktail as an aperitif and to start our evening off in style. A board was brought over to our table, showcasing the variety of steak and pork cuts available on the menu, to aid us in our main course selection for the evening. All cuts are dry aged for at least 35 days and sourced from Longhorn and Shorthorn cattle and their pork Gloucester old spot are lovingly reared in North Yorkshire. Knowledge of their produce is clearly important at Queens and we were given recommendations based on our preferences of steak and our hunger levels! SCENE 47

For my starter I chose the seared Scottish scallops with garlic butter and dry cure bacon, presented beautifully in a mini skillet on a wooden board. These were possibly the best-tasting scallops I have ever had; plump, perfectly cooked and bursting with flavour. The smoky bacon pieces and garlic butter adding an interesting and unusual flavour dimension. My guest opted for the classic prawn and crayfish cocktail, simply presented in a martini glass on a bed of fresh, crisp iceberg lettuce. A huge king prawn sat atop the mix of prawns and crayfish, in a light and delicate sauce. On to the main event – our steaks! I chose the 8oz Fillet, cooked medium-rare whilst my dining partner went for the 12oz Bone in prime rib, also served medium-rare. All dishes from the grill are served with a garnish of grilled mushroom, vine cherry tomatoes and shredded iceberg lettuce stack. There’s a competent selection of side dishes including thoughtful offerings such as sautéed onions and a fried hen’s egg. We chose the house salad and a hearty portion of chunky, fluffy and extremely tasty hand cut chips. Presentation of the food at Queens British Steak House & Grill is stylish and well-thought out, with the steaks brought on wooden boards. Portions are generous to say the least so a good appetite is well-recommended for a visit here. Our steaks were perfectly cooked to order, seasoned well and simply melted in the mouth. You can really taste the quality of the produce and attention to with a good selection offered by the glass to suit detail is obvious. all tastes and food choices. Our waiters suggested different wines to match our courses which again Steak is the main event at Queens, with the likes of showed knowledge and professionalism. A crisp sirloin, rump and a huge 18oz porterhouse all featuring French white complimented my scallop starter well on the menu to satisfy the carnivores amongst us. and a robust glass of Argentinian Malbec was the There’s a steak sharing platter available for those ideal accompaniment to my fillet steak. My guest was wanting to try a few different cuts too. It’s worth noting recommended an equally satisfying Shiraz. there are many other dishes to choose from aside from steak on the grill selection including rare breed pork After two rather generous and absolutely delicious belly ribs, Gloucester old spot pork chop with crackling courses, plus the bread and olives, we were unable to and rosemary and garlic marinated lamb skewers. In squeeze in a dessert, despite the appetising choices. addition, those wanting fish rather than meat can choose British favourites adorn the menu including strawberry from the likes of grilled salmon fillet and beer battered jam sponge & custard, Braeburn apple and blackberry haddock fillet. Vegetarian options are also available for crumble with custard and a selection of British cheeses the non-meat-eaters. served with quince jelly, celery and biscuits. There’s a respectable variety of well-priced red, white, rose wine and champagnes available at the restaurant

48 SCENE

I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the Queens British Steak House & Grill. It offers top-quality British food, served beautifully in relaxed and stylish surroundings. Lunchtime menus and a mid-week two and three course set dinner menu offer good value for food that equals if not betters, some top London Steak Houses. Their Sunday roasts, served from 12-7pm, also come highly recommended. This is a real British steak house serving the very best of British meat simply cooked and well prepared. With a welcoming atmosphere, homely interior and great service, Queens is the place to go for good food and good times and I am already planning my next visit...and dessert! Queens British Steak House & Grill, 63 New Wanstead, London E11 2SA 020 8530 8861 www.queensbritishgrill.co.uk

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Sardinian Ristorante â&#x20AC;˘ Pizzeria

Authentic Trattoria

Sardinian and Italian cuisine

Front and rear terrace for al fresco dining

Children welcome

Dine In, takeaway and home deliveries

182 Queens Road, Buckhurst Hill, Essex, IG9 5BD 020 8505 7077 SCENE 49

40 YEARS AT MEGHNA grill

his year the Meghna Grill Indian Restaurant celebrates its 40th year of opening at its South Woodford site – a fantastic achievement and success story in a less than buoyant economic climate.

Partner Faysal Ahmed’s father, Mazir Uddin, opened the restaurant a few years after moving to Britain in the late 1960s, naming it after a famous river in his native Bangladesh. Mr Ahmed said his father started out as the owner of a dressmaking factory but swapped professions to become a restaurateur to indulge his love of Indian food. The Meghna Grill has fed many famous diners including local MP, Iain Duncan Smith, and Labour peer, Lord Desai, since opening its doors. They host regular charity events for UNICEF and also raise money for disaster funds. The venue has also catered for many parties across the years for a variety of celebrations. Hassan, one of the partners who has been working at the restaurant since 1983 says: “I think the secret to our success is treating each guest as a member of our family. It’s a family-run restaurant and we try to extend that to encompass 50 SCENE

our customers.” They have an extremely loyal customer base at the Meghna Grill, returning time after time to enjoy the five-star rated food and service. Throughout the years the restaurant has seen the different generations of grandparents, parents and children all dine there.

The interior of the restaurant purposely retains its original features and character. Ornate ceilings and light-fittings create an authentic look and feel to the room, which is low-lit and cosy. Hassan says about the restaurant: “It hasn’t changed that much since we started and hopefully we can keep going for a lot longer!” Happy 40th Birthday to Faysal, Hassan, Sharif and all the team at Meghna Grill and here’s to many more successful years of business! Meghna Grill, 219 High Road, South Woodford, London , E18 2PB 020 8504 0923

d oul w s our aster! r a St all y E d an wish Happ t i bb to y Ra like a ver ers m to cus

Stockists of

and many more....

Party bags available for birthdays and celebrations

162 Queens Road, Buckhurst Hill, Essex, IG9 5BD 020 8504 7200

ARE YOU READY FOR THE DIGITAL SWITCHOVER? FREE LOCAL DELIVERY & SET-UP*

BROADWAY MUSIC & VISION 31 THE BROADWAY, WOODFORD GREEN, ESSEX, IG8 0HQ

WILL THAT TV IN THE SPARE ROOM WORK IN APRIL?

0208 504 7500

broadwaymandv@aol.com www.broadwaymandv.co.uk

THE DIGITAL SWITCHOVER BEGINS 4TH APRIL TILL THE 18TH APRIL

*excludes wall installations SCENE 51

An interview with Kevin McCloud GRAND DESIGNS HAS GAINED A HUGE FOLLOWING IN THE UK OVER THE LAST 10 YEARS, AND HOST, kevin mCCloud, WILL BE AT THE LONDON SHOW MEETING FANS, CHAIRING DEBATES IN THE GRAND THEATRE AND SHARING HIS GRAND DESIGN EXPERIENCES WITH VISITORS.

ots of people are deciding not to sell their homes - improving rather than moving. What one thing can people do to improve their living space? It is interesting when the recession came when it did…..many people for example felt it was the right opportunity to focus on - instead of the clutter of consumerism making their homes a little bit more tailored and bespoke. And the one thing I have to say about Grand Designs is, yes, of course it is about building and construction, BUT it is also about investing in things –and investing well! Many people call Grand Designs a property programme and that is simply not true, I have never thought of it as a property programme. It is about personal journeys, commitment and investment. The recession and current climate gives all of us an opportunity to stop and check our position – to check if these objects and places that we own are really ours and if we bought them for

52 SCENE

ourselves and if we can build a lasting relationships with them. It’s an opportunity to find some pleasure in ownership. We like to furnish our homes idiosyncratically. Because people are moving less, we have an opportunity to now decide for ourselves what it is about our homes that we like and what we want to keep or change – do we want to keep a dining room for example? Or should we knock through the dining room….I mean, I think of Balmoral and think, yes, their dining rooms are probably still used, but - and this may be a generalisation - but many of us live in our kitchens now and won’t often use a dining room. So it’s time to look at things like the dining room and see if it is utilised in its current form and has a relevant purpose in our lives. At Grand Designs Live this year, we will be looking at various home solutions and offering free advice consultations - from 9ft high glass extensions that can be bolted on

to the back of homes to basement conversions. My friend for example has recently done his basement and added a kitchen to make it this beautiful living space. But it is important to realise, that any home improvement / alteration or addition, has to work for you and how you live. What’s the best way to add value to your home? You can look down to basements, up to lofts, out to the garden to build new living spaces, but I don’t think in monetary value - I believe in investing in passion and ideas. In fact, I have gone out of my way to avoid putting an emphasis on money and turning a quick buck. Grand Designs the TV show and Grand Designs Live, is about the long term – about people putting down roots and connecting to where they live. It is all about adding what you value personally. So do I really value a power shower, actually, yes I do…. I’d like a low ﬂow power shower that doesn’t use too much water and is eco-logical, but actually

I want a power shower, and, if I didn’t have it, I would actually end up having a bath and using even more water…you have to work through these questions. Changes in any home need to be tailored to your personality and your needs. I think one of the most adventurous things you can do for example, to add personal value, is to commission a piece of furniture – you are evolving something that is being made in a very bespoke way for you and you build a relationship with the maker which is a lovely thing. Your home space should provide you with comfort and delight – and that is what design can give you as well as an ongoing relationship and appreciation of your home possessions. That is value. I am also fascinated by the tactile qualities of things…..and I think we too often live in a rather plastic world; you know, poly cotton sheets, synthetic clothing, plastic chairs, plastic computers. One thing we are missing is the tactility of the world to us. I would add personal value and fulfilment by investing in the things you have to touch everyday – so door handles, taps, for example. in the noughties we were knocking down walls to create big open spaces, but has this

improved the quality of living or did the victorians have it right with the more rooms the better? You can swap rooms around and knock through rooms – there is no need to stick to the original layout if it doesn’t work for you and your needs. We are really attached to this engrained idea that upstairs is bedroom, down stairs is living and actually we can change it all round! Swap it around so it makes sensible and versatile solutions – for example, the kitchen moves to the front of the house where you bring in all the goods, take out the garbage. Move your laundry upstairs so it is near all the bedrooms when you strip down the beds of linen, etc. You need to make a house work for you rather than the other way around. It is also important to think twenty years ahead and plan solutions now to ensure long term fulfilment – for example, will I be able to handle the stairs in this property in 20 years? If not, where could the lift go? Think about it now.

in these more budget-conscious times, are there certain building jobs you would always leave to the professionals? The more you do yourself, of course, the cheaper things are, but you are also more prone to disaster and failure. Nothing is free of worry or risk, or cost. There are cheaper solutions to everything and, ironically enough, I think architects are very good at thinking of cheaper solutions, partly because they have to, as they don’t earn very much and have had to think of solutions for their own home very often. Even when it is a small scale project, it is always important to ask the advice of someone who is skilled and gifted in this area - they will offer you solutions, ideas and a fresh perspective. Good professionals, designers or architects will pay for themselves. I can tell when a building or an extension, hasn’t been designed or thought through – and so can most people. There is always that wonderful sense of abdication when you get someone professional on board to help you and take on responsibility of a project. In these times of austerity, it is tempting to go for cheaper items and concepts, but you will always feel more affection and appreciation with beautifully made things that you bring in, or add to your home. It is a time now to refocus on our homes and go for quality and invest in craftsmanship, and ultimately longevity. SCENE 53

it will be spring soon, how does your home change throughout the seasons? To me, a home is a personal space and should simply reflect who you are. If you have inherited family heirlooms or kept nostalgic things from your childhood, cherish these objects and build your look around them. Having a home with wow factor is not about trends or having good taste - it’s about having conviction. You don’t have to buy lots of expensive things to give your home designer style. The art of creating a great home is to get a cohesive look by mixing expensive items with carefully selected cheaper products that look good together. Demand interest and originality – celebrate the uniqueness of where you live The most interesting and enriching homes are those that are full of autobiography. What’s your favourite way to bring the outdoors in? The kitchen garden - you grow your own. I have a fanciful notion, but not an impractical one, that one day the average sized town in Europe, Australia and America will be largely self-sustaining in food terms – growing much of what it needs within a radius of - say, 30 miles. Food growing and transportation is responsible for about 20 per cent of our carbon emissions. favourite kitchen gadget? Miele dishwashers come with the ‘Triple A’ stamp of approval and they are very efficient, using little energy, water and detergent to keep running costs down and protect the environment. favourite period of property? I appreciate form and design in all shapes , styles and sizes – it is impossible to pick one. radiator or underfloor heating? I’m quite a fan of ground source heat pumps, when properly installed – (cooling system that pumps heat to or from the ground, usually used to heat radiators or underfloor 54 SCENE

heating systems and hot water.) paint or wallpaper? Paint – in particular eco-paint. how important do you think it is to embrace microgeneration? Every breath we take as human beings damages the planet. As homeowners, we need look no further than our own four walls to find a way to reduce carbon emissions, save money on our energy bills and tackle climate change, but help must be given to homeowners on every street in Britain to green their homes and make tangible solutions. We must all move towards de-carbonization and becoming ‘off grid’ – we need to seize all opportunities to move towards a low carbon life, and, one day, zero carbon life. Human energy is the last green resource we have!” What microgeneration technology do you recommend? A little pet favourite project of mine, you will see at Grand Designs Live – it is called Kevin’s Green heroes. It is an exhibit that is entirely focused on new eco technologies and brilliant people who aren’t yet in the public eye, but who deserve to be. I keep a list in my phone or note of who I meet and what I see and we put it together as an exhibit and it is a great thing to see it materialize. This year, amongst other innovations, we have, PVT

Hybrid panels to create a solarbased hybrid electricity, domestic hot water and heating solution. Design guru, Kevin McCloud, returns to London’s Excel between 5 – 13 May 2012 as host of Grand Designs Live sponsored by Direct Line - the innovative home improvement, self-build and design show. The show boasts over 500 exhibitors, across 7 different sections, and offers free consultations and inspiration for both home owners looking for new design and renovation ideas, and aspiring self-builders looking for advice for their very own Grand Design. Book now www.granddesignslive.com or call 0844 854 1348. Kids go free.

by lellow

WWW.INSIDEJOBONLINE.CO.UK • Mirrors • Furniture • Chandeliers • Lamps • Gifts • Soft Furnishings • Home Accessories • Jewellery

Please come and have a browse at our unique collection of elegant gifts and furniture and receive a 10% discount when you mention this advert.

Open 9am-5.30pm Mon-Sat 14-22 Mill Lane, Woodford Green, Essex, IG8 0UG

Tel 020 8504 7171 Fax: 020 8504 7272 INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICE DESIGNER FABRICS & WALLPAPERS BESPOKE SOFA DESIGN CURTAIN AND BLIND SERVICE FURNITURE AND LIGHTING CARPETS GIFT AND ACCESSORIES FARROW AND BALL PAINT PAINT LIBRARY LITTLE GREEN PAINT COMPANY FRIENDLY ADVICE AND SERVICE

No 1

SBI Verandas & Security Shutters

Visit sbiproducts.co.uk for more information

153 High Street, Ongar, Essex, CM5 9JD T: 01277 369909 E: info@kokokouture.co.uk W: www.kokokouture.co.uk

Free call SBI on 0800 0742 721 SCENE 55

Craft Decor

Ltd. provides a unique and first class decorating service to the private and commercial sectors. We undertake variety of residential work with beautiful effects and expensive looking finishes giving your home a unique feel and adding unrivalled style.

e: info@craftdecorltd.co.uk w: www.craftdecorltd.co.uk t: 020 8521 5191 m: 07858 639 339

SERVICES INCLUDE:

Co G 13 ra me M nd and ay D e se St at E sign e us an xc s d el Liv at K4 L e on do n

ALL ASPECTS OF INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PAINTING/DECORATING • ITALIAN POLISHED PLASTER AND DECORATIVE FINISHES • WALLPAPERING • SPRAY APPLICATION ETC.

Supply only or full installation service available Free Home Survey & No Obligation Quotes 196 High Road, Woodford Green, Essex, IG8 9EF 56 SCENE

0208 504 1765

lloydbathworks@hotmail.co.uk

Essex’s

Grandest

D ESIGNS

WITH THE UK’S LEADING CONTEMPORARY HOME SHOW, GRAND DESIGNS LIVE, RETURNING TO LONDON’S EXCEL BETWEEN 5 – 13 MAY 2012, WE DECIDED TO SHOWCASE THE GRANDEST DESIGN COMPANIES THAT ESSEX HAS TO OFFER…

Clive Christian Brentwood Described by the commissioning editor of the Sunday Times Style magazine as “someone who has strengthened British brands” Clive is as well known for his breathtaking interiors as he is for his uniquely expensive perfumes, with a devoted following across the globe from premier league football stars to awardwinning musicians, politicians, entrepreneurs and Hollywood stars. Clive’s own philosophy when designing is to “Design it first - to be the absolute best it can be – then cost it” so that the end result is always focused on the clients vision not budget. The philosophy of the Clive Christian Design House is to create rooms that are both timeless and luxurious, inspired by periods of great British architecture and to partner with the finest

in current technology. These values ultimately bring an established character to the interior, transforming a new build property into a home with soul or complementing a period home with architectural and design echoes from the time of their creation. The Architectural Design Style is designed for the larger luxury property due to the enhanced details and grand scale - the Architectural kitchen in Ivory and British Antique grey glaze and Black Oak is now installed in the Clive Christian Brentwood showroom followed by the Architectural Dining Room in the same Clive Christian ‘cool-luxury’ colour palette. 131 High Street, Brentwood, Essex, CM14 4RZ Tel: 01277 223016 Web: www.clive.com SCENE 57

Koko Kouture Koko Kouture, situated in the heart of Ongar High Street is a new interiors and lifestyle boutique, stocking a great range of gorgeous items for the home. This stylish and bright shop offers a whole host of products including decorative mirrors, chandeliers, table and standard lamps, soft furnishings and original gifts. Armoires, glass-fronted cabinets and tables are filled with candles, cushions, quirky signs and cool accessories for customers to browse and buy. New in-store is a stunning range of semi-precious statement jewellery featuring rings, bracelets, earrings and necklaces. All pieces are one-off and beautifully crafted with the likes of rose quartz and opal stones set into gold-plated metal bands. As well as the products available to purchase in store, Koko Kouture offers design advice and inspiration to clients and can source any number of home furnishings whether you’re looking for classic, contemporary or the

Craft Decor

shabby chic look to enhance your home. Koko Kouture, 153 High Street, Ongar, Essex CM59JD 01277 369909 www.kokokouture.co.uk Craft Decor is a friendly and professional company based in London. They have built their knowledge and experience by providing services for clients in Essex as well as Central and North London and even as far afield as the Cotswold. Craft Décor’s goal is customer satisfaction, the company aims to provide a premium quality service, tailored to meet individual needs from wallpapering to plastering. The Craft Décor team are all trained in exclusive decorative finishes by Oikos in Chelmsford and Impex Color in Treviso, Italy. Give Craft Décor a call today for your Grand Design needs! Tel: 02085215191 www.craftdecorltd.co.uk

RGB Ilford and Loughton Based RGB are experts in providing the very latest in home audio and visual products. Having been established for almost twenty years, RGB have become one of the largest independent electrical retailers in the UK. Their Ilford Superstore has been designed with the customer’s ease of purchasing in mind, boasting a dedicated Demo Room, numerous interactive lifestyle zones and fully operational products on display. All staff are manufacture trained, therefore having the abilities to showcase the full features and benefits of all the available products. “We wanted to create an electrical store that would stand out from the crowd. A store that would personify what a true customer experience is all about. We hope our store shows that we are not afraid to invest in what we truly believe in.” Dennis Digwa, Director. 58 SCENE

RGB Electrical Superstore, 543-549 High Road, Ilford, IG1 1TZ RGB HiFi & Video, 121 Roding Road, Loughton, IG10 3BS Tel: 020 8924 7744 Web: www.rgbdirect.co.uk

ID Interior Design ID Interior Design are experts in home interior design, having an established knowledge of the interior and furnishing markets from both a trader’s and a customer’s perspective. The ID Interior Design team have strived to establish the highest standards of quality and expert service. The Company is dedicated to providing up to the minute products of superior quality, whatever the budget. Whilst the friendly, personalised service of their design advisors and measure-andfit experts continues, ID Interior’s ranges of products is constantly expanding and currently includes the likes of Sanderson, Romo, Designers Guild, Harlequin & Today Interiors, to name but a few. For all your interior design needs visit or call ID Interior Design today. 01708458256, 143 Heath Park Road, Gidea Park, Romford, RM2 5XJ

Just Interiors Just near the junctions of the M25 and M11 is Epping, famous for it’s forest and still with the charm of a market town, despite its proximity to London. There you will find Just Interiors on the High Street. This gem of a shop stocks some of the most beautiful furniture available. Everything is backed up by the Just Interiors no nonsense customer service policy, where you make the decisions and they provide the advice and backup. To round off your new look, Just Interiors stock lots of products to accessorize your rooms: textile, ceramics, glassware, lighting, giftware and even some topiary. If you are looking for something timeless to bring a little something else into your life and you want the security of knowing that any advice you receive is honest and unbiased, then you should visit Just Interiors as soon as possible, you will not be disappointed. 118a High Street, Epping, Essex, CM16 4A Tel: 01992 576656 SCENE 59

BATHROOMS FROM Bat hworks

athworks Ltd, suppliers of bathroom and shower equipment and tiles, has recently celebrated 9 years of trading at their Milton Keynes branch (established in 2003) and Woodford Green showroom, which opened in February of last year.

Founders, Richard Banks and Lloyd Moulder, had been working for well-known manufacturers before deciding to venture out on their own. They originally chose Milton Keynes as a base as they both felt that there was a need for a good quality bathroom retailer in the area. The premises that they occupy in Bradwell Abbey are 2,500 sq ft with over 20 fully tiled display settings. The Woodford Green showroom currently has ten fully tiled bathroom displays, showcasing some of the latest products from selected European manufacturers. These days the trend is towards a minimalist look with clean lines & chrome fittings. Shower enclosures are giving way to sleek looking ‘walk in’ showers, with no moving parts to wear or become grubby. Wet rooms do away with shower trays altogether as the shower is integrated into the whole bathroom. “The main things on people’s wish list these days are a good shower and storage”, says Lloyd. “More people want showers than baths. Whether it’s an en suite or an extra bathroom in an extension, 60 SCENE

it’s definitely a case of the more bathrooms the better”.

Specialising in a vast range of bathroom and shower equipment, Bathworks are one of the South East’s leading bathroom showrooms. They are able to offer exclusive products within the area, covering Woodford, Wanstead, Buckhurst Hill, Loughton, Chingford and Chigwell. They will also organise the trades required to complete the work, including plumbing, tiling, plastering and decorating making them a one-stop shop for all bathroom solutions. At Bathworks you will find everything you need to make your own bathroom dreams come true. From baths and showers in a variety of styles, shapes and sizes, to hitech lighting and mirrors, to storage solutions, Bathroom storage has developed greatly, with a huge range of fitted or modular furniture and surfaces. Even a small room can contain a huge amount of storage space, yet it looks smart & clean and hides unsightly plumbing. They can help you create the perfect bathroom for you. So whether you are simply looking for a bathroom item, or an entirely new look be it a wet room, loft en suite or state-of-the-art steam room, you will find it all under one roof.

Bathworks strive to bring you the best when it comes to supplying the bathroom suite of your choice. Only supplying the highest quality, best brands and working closely with their suppliers, the staff are always on hand to give professional, friendly advice. Lloyd says: “With over 60 years combined experience within the bathroom industry, our staff knowledge and experience is vast. Our aim is to always give you the right information and sell you the right product to suit all budgets.” Bathworks will be exhibiting at Grand Designs Live at London Excel 5-13 May. You can find them on stand K4 Bathworks, 196 High Road, Woodford Green, Essex IG8 9EF 020 8504 1765

amr East London & Essex

AMR is a specialist property recruitment company offering staffing solutions to the leading and most successful property companies and estate agencies in East London

& Essex. AMR East London & Essex continues to enjoy a reputation for exceptional customer service and professionalism. Our proactive and highly skilled consultants all have previous experience in the property industry. To find out more, please visit our website: www.amrgroup.co.uk

Head of Land & New Homes East London £30-35K + benefits Well networked professional to head up Land & New Homes department of established property company.

Lettings Negotiator Essex £30-40K OTE + car

Lettings Administrator Essex £18-20K

Property Recruitment Consultant Essex £25K OTE 1st year Driven and motivated property professional with the desire to enter the recruitment sector.

Branch Manager Essex 40K OTE + car

Property Manager Canary Wharf £25K

Senior Sales Negotiator Essex £35K OTE Great opportunity for an ambitious person with at least two years’ experience in residential sales.

Branch Manager Essex circa £25K OTE

Commercial negotiator City £40K OTE + car

Sales Negotiator East London £30K OTE Ambitious Negotiator with sales experience for independent agency with good local market knowledge.

Sales Manager Docklands £45K OTE + car

property

estate agency

financial services

Established in 1995, AMR have 14 franchised offices nationwide.

Previous sales experience required by independent estate agency. Must demonstrate strong customer focus.

Competent Branch Manager with leadership skills for reputable brand to head up new office.

For a fantastic brand specialising in high-end residential properties Lettings & valuing experience essential.

Experienced Lettings Administrator for residential estate agency to provide admin support to the lettings team.

Experienced Property Manager for private investment & development company responsible for big portfolio.

Motivated experienced person for commercial agency responsible for liaison with vendor during marketing & sales.

Sales experience & exceptional negotiation skills required. Would suit ambitious Senior Sales Negotiator/proven manager.

020 8605 0849 graham.green@amrgroup.co.uk www.amrgroup.co.uk

Do you know someone seeking a new position in Property or Estate Agency in London? If so, please recommend them to us to be eligible for a £100 referral fee! (subject to terms).

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020 8502 7667

07719 987 904

email: info@huntpropertyservices.co.uk

ÂŁ895,000

Stapleford Abbotts

Magnificent four bedroom detached home situated within a private development. This stunning family home covers an overall 3,000sq.ft and has been recently transformed to an impressive high standard boasting an extended luxury high spec high gloss kitchen with light grey granite surfaces, porcelain flooring and tiles. Luxury wall coverings and bespoke drapes with feature timber beams. Four bedrooms with fitted furniture and plasma tvâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Integral garage has been converted to offer additional self-contained living space.

ÂŁ849,999

Be d

EO T

Repton Park

Brand new to the market this end of terrace five double bedroom, four bathroom townhouse is set in an enviable position within the prestigious development of Repton Park. Boasting a large private gated garden with side access, garage and driveway. Large fully integrated kitchen/diner with separate utility room and ground floor reception room. Set over three floors this stunning property benefits having balconies with views to grounds and parkland.

www.huntpropertyservices.co.uk 62 SCENE

Hunt Property Services Ltd - The Agent in Repton Park has a wide portfolio of luxury homes for sale or rent on Chigwell’s premier development. And as someone who has been a resident owner here for the past 10 years, Hayley Hunt offers a unique insight into what prospective home owners are looking for, whether a house or apartment, in this exclusive gated community. Selling, buying or renting, don’t make a move without consulting Hunt Property Services first. Available for consultation £3,500 pmand viewings seven days a week.

D Pr eta op ch er ed ty

Repton Park

from £795,000

Lu x Pe ur nt y D ho u us ple e x

Chigwell

Re Pr duc ic ed e

Detached original gatehouse set behind electric gates. Boasting three bedrooms, three receptions, fully integrated high gloss kitchen with immaculate high spec interior. Private gardens and detached double garage. Unfurnished.

Repton Park

£4,450 pm

Stunning six bedroom detached family residence set behind secondary gates. Large fully integrated kitchen diner with granite surfaces, stone flooring boasting french doors to orprivate £2,450pm garden. Double garage and driveway. Unfurnished.

from £795,000 or £2,450pm

A selection of duplex penthouse apartments set within Manor Hall in the heart of Chigwell. Stunning interiors, up to 3,000sq.ft. Boasting state of the art technology, designer kitchens, private parking and garage.

£1,300 pm Repton Park Pr Un op iqu er e ty

£4,450 pm

£3,500 pm

£4,500 pm Chigwell O u Po tdo ol or

G Or at ig eh in ou al se

Repton Park

£1,850 pm

Charming upper ground floor two bedroom, two bathroom apartment. Wooden flooring throughout. Beautiful views to grounds. This luxury apartment benefits underground parking and lift. Offered fully furnished.

£1,300 pm

Charming one bedroom house with own entrance. Natural stone/Amtico flooring, set over two floors, high spec kitchen and stylish bathroom with aqua plasma tv, glass internal doors, fitted plasma. Abundance of light. Furnished.

£4,500 pm

Stunning five double bedroom detached family residence in Chigwell. Large open plan kitchen, utility room, large garden, heated pool, double integral garage with carriage driveway. Unfurnished.

The Agent in Repton Park SCENE 63

Savills Chelmsford 136 New London Road Chelmsford CM2 0RG

01245 293233 chelmsford@savills.com

savills.co.uk

GRADE II LISTED COUNTRY HOUSE AND OUTBUILDINGS toot hill, nr ongar, essex Master bedroom with en suite bathroom ø 4 further bedrooms ø 4 reception rooms ø fitted kitchen/breakfast room ø cloakroom ø range of brick and timber outbuildings ø office ø stables, granary, large barn ø gardens ø courtyard parking ø 2 paddocks ø about 1.65 acres Guide £1.35 million

Buying or selling this spring? Talk to Savills. 64 SCENE

Savills Chelmsford 136 New London Road Chelmsford CM2 0RG

01245 293233 chelmsford@savills.com

savills.co.uk

HIGH EASTER, essex

STOCK, essex

Over 6,000 sq ft ø 5 bedrooms (2 en suite) ø second floor 3 bedroom suite ø garage block with studio ø about 8 acres ø stunning interior

5235 sq ft ø 3 reception rooms ø 6 bedrooms ø 4 bathrooms ø double garage ø about 0.4 acres ø no chain ø billericay station 2.7 miles

Guide £2 million

Guide £1.895 million

HIGH ONGAR, essex

HERONGATE, essex

4 reception rooms ø 6 bedrooms (2 en suite) ø detached annexe ø pool ø tennis court ø outbuilding ø garden and paddock ø about 7.6 acres

3 reception rooms ø 5 bedrooms (1 en suite) ø games room ø conservatory ø garaging ø gated cul-de-sac ø 100' rear garden

Guide £1.85 million

Guide £1.495 million

CHELMSFORD, essex

HIGH RODING, essex

4 bedrooms (1 en suite) ø kitchen/breakfast/conservatory ø 2 reception rooms ø 120' garden ø planning for extension ø about 0.31 acres

3 noteworthy reception rooms ø 4 bedrooms ø galleried reception hall ø long drive to detached garage ø west facing gardens ø large plot

Guide £730,000

Guide £495,000

Buying or selling this spring? Talk to Savills. SCENE 65

MY SCENE RESTAURATEUR, LUIGI FUNEDDA, IS THE OWNER OF THE IL BACIO RESTAURANTS. HIS FIRST RESTAURANT OPENED ON STOKE NEWINGTON CHURCH STREET IN LONDON IN 1995 AND, FROM THERE, HE HAS GONE ON TO OPEN A NUMBER OF HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL NEIGHBOURHOOD EATERIES OFFERING AUTHENTIC SARDINIAN AND ITALIAN FOOD TO LOCALS WANTING TO ENJOY FINE FOOD AND WINE IN RELAXED AND STYLISH SURROUNDINGS. SCENE SPOKE TO LUIGI AS HE EMBARKED UPON HIS NEW RESTAURANT VENTURE: IL BACIO IN BUCKHURST HILL. Words by Jo Fraser

Hi Luigi. Where were you born and what brought you over to the UK? I was born in a town called Siniscola in the north east of Sardinia. In 1987 I came over to London for a month long holiday to see my uncle Vittorio. At the time he had a restaurant in Barbican called Vecchio Parioli. I started to help out in the kitchen, at first cleaning glasses and then learning in the kitchen. My month holiday turned into a two-year stay! So where did you go from there? I returned to Sardinia at the age of 19 as it was compulsory then to do National Service for your country. I worked for the Marina Militare Italiana (Italian Navy) for 12 months – in the kitchen, of course! And then you came back to London? Yes. I returned to London in 1990 and again went to work with my uncle, who was now running a restaurant in the heart of Soho in Greek Street. From there, I went on to work as a waiter at San Lorenzo in Knightsbridge, to get the insight and experience of life in a top London restaurant.

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Luigi Funedda How did Il Bacio start? I was working in Stoke Newington Church Street in 1995 and saw premises, an ex hairdressing salon, up for rent. I felt by now I had the knowledge, experience and the passion to open my own restaurant, so decided to go for it and open Il Bacio. From there followed Il Bacio Express, also in Stoke Newington, Trattoria di Luigi and Il Bacio Highbury. What brought you to Buckhurst Hill in Essex? My wife, Michela, runs a traditional toy shop called Rabbit & Stars on Queens Road and I love the area and the people here. I felt that our offering of an authentic Sardinian trattoria-style restaurant would be well received here, and we found the perfect site at the top of Queens Road. What’s on offer at Il Bacio in Queens Road? We serve simply prepared authentic Sardinian and Italian cuisine here. Everything is freshly made on the premises and we have daily deliveries of the best quality meat, fish and vegetables. Our menu is a mixture of freshly baked pizza, pasta, salads and many meat and fish dishes too. I travel back to Sardinia every 6-8 weeks to source many of the products including olive oil, pasta and wine. Are there many Sardinian specialities on the menu? Absolutely! We serve many Sardinian specialties at Il Bacio, including our Antipasto Sardo selection of hams, cheese and salami, spit-roasted Suckling Pig, Malloreddus - a pasta dish with Sardinian sausage and pecorino cheese, and Sebadas - and fritters made with a pecorino cheese filling, typical of Sardinia, and served simply with sugar, honey or vanilla ice-cream.

And you source Sardinian wine too? Yes, our wine is 100% Italian, with a number of Sardinian whites, reds and roses on the menu. Included on “Luigi’s Special Selection” is the Vermentino Di Sardegna DOC “Terre Fenice” white wine and a full-bodied Carignano del Sulcis DOC “Is Arenas” red – perfect with our meat dishes. I can highly recommend the Mirto di Sardegna liqueur too – good Sardinian meal is complete without a glass of Mirto! What are your passions outside of cooking and good food? I love my boys’ toys – sports cars and motorbikes! You sound like you’ve got a very successful restaurant business. What’s next for you? Each Il Bacio restaurant is unique to its area. It’s a family-run business and in no way a “chain”. I am always looking for my next outpost of Il Bacio but want to grow and expand in the right areas. Above all I love creating restaurants that are relaxed, enjoyable, family-friendly, social places with an authentic feel and great food for my customers. Thanks Luigi and we wish you every success with Il Bacio.

For further information visit Il Bacio, 182 Queens Road, Buckhurst Hill, Essex IG9 5BD 020 8505 7077

Meghna Grill Established 1971

The Meghna Grill first opened its doors back in 1971 and since then has been serving the taste buds of generations Come and try for yourself why the Meghna Grill has been a firm favourite of so many and experience fine dining in warm and friendly surroundings We look forward to welcoming you...

OPEN DAILY 12pm – 2.30pm and 6pm – midnight 219 High Road, South Woodford, London E18 2PB 020 8504 0923 / 020 8559 0158 www.themeghna.co.uk

Free Delivery on orders over £12 (6pm-11.30pm) 10% Discount on Collection (order over £10) 20% Discount on Collection (members only) Join the Meghna Grill members club and enjoy 20% off eat in and takeaway meals

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