Dec / Jan 2009 by ABSOLUTELY Magazines

YOUR PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING

YOUR LITTLE

DEC 09 - JAN 10

BLACK BOOK

FOR CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR

FAMILY FOOD & DRINK LOCAL SPOTLIGHT GADGETS INTERIORS FASHION SHOPPING PROPERTY

NEW YEAR’S EVE AT R I N G I N 2 0 1 0 W I T H U S A S W E T R A N S F O R M T H E P R I VAT E M E M B E R S C L U B AT T H E R O O F G A R D E N S I N TO A F I R E A N D I C E T H E M E D W I N T E R W O N D E R L A N D. T H R O U G H O U T T H E E V E N I N G YO U Õ L L B E E N T E RTA I N E D W I T H TO P C L A S S M U S I C F R O M B A S I L B L A C K 2 B A S I C , A F O RT U N E T E L L E R , M A G I C I A N A N D O F C O U R S E T H E U N I Q U E R O O F G A R D E N S F I R E W O R K S D I S P L AY AT M I D N I G H T P L U S M U C H M O R E .

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CONTENTS

DECEMBER 2009 / JANUARY 2010

FEATURES 9 14 20 27 40 51 59

EDITOR’s PIcK The must-see events this Christmas and New Year

NELsON’s cOLUmN Still at the top, Trevor Nelson reveals his party plans for this New Year

FIvE OF THE BEsT DJ BaRs Get in the party mood with the best DJ hot spots in North London

maN UP Alex Freeman tries a little relaxation and pampering, man-style!

a mEaTy IssUE Chef Fergus Henderson reveals why you should opt for offal this Christmas

my DEsIGNER LIFE Want to revamp your home this New Year? Cat Hoad is the woman to help

BOURNE IDENTITy Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake returns to Sadler’s Wells just in time for the festive season

51 REGULARS n EDITOR’s LETTER n FamILy n HEaLTH & BEaUTy n FasHION n FOOD & DRINK n INTERIORs n GaDGETs n mOTORING

n aRT n PROPERTy

Editor’s l et t er

CITYLIFE MAGAZINES CITY

Rather sneakily ‘that time of the year’ has crept up on us again - the onslaught of parties begins, the frantic last minute shopping terminating in excessive food and alcohol intake and leading swiftly on to the New Years resolutions, which are then promptly broken. So, to guide you through Christmas and New Year we have put together an exclusive double issue, in the form of your ultimate little black book that will inform, direct and entertain you over the festive period. No plans for New Year yet? Then local Old Street resident, Trevor Nelson invites us all to his exclusive and bling New Year’s party, where he will be DJ’ing and having a few drinks to see in 2010. He also chats about the X-Factor effect, Mariah Carey’s diva behaviour and what he has in common with superstar rapper P. Diddy. If you want to get your groove on before New Year then take a look at our top five DJ bars in the area – the perfect venues for that Christmas work party. Food wise, if you are already fed up with the usual stodgy Christmas dishes, then, like our foodie Carrie Mitchell, why not opt for a healthier option at Oishii in Stoke Newington.

Editor Lesley Ellwood Editorial Director Kate Harrison Deputy Editor Jenny White Motoring Editor Matthew Carter Fashion Editor Lucie Dodds Senior Designers Laddawan Juhong/ Hiren Chandarana

Production Manager Dan Hyde Sales Director Eren Ellwood P.A. to Sales Director Ella Kilgarriff Group Advertising Director Sherif Shaltout PR & Marketing Manager Rebecca Walton Managing Director Giles Ellwood Finance Manager Annette Habel

020 7987 4320 020 7005 0045 cityandangel@runwildmedia.co.uk www.runwildmedia.com

Still not feeling in the festive spirit yet? Then head over to Sadler’s Wells to see Matthew Bourne’s definitive Christmas production, Swan Lake. Matthew talks about the controversial notices that the show first received 14 years ago and why it is still a favourite with us all. With a jam-packed issue that will see you right through to January, there is nothing left for us to say but wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from everyone at the City & Angel magazine. See you in 2010!

RUNWILD M

16 Heron Quay, Canary Wharf, London E14 4JB

RunWild Media Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and RunWild Media Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved. Subscription: 6 & 12 month subscriptions are available at

YOUR PREMIER GUIDE TO LUXURY LIVING

DEC 09 - JAN 10

£15 & £25 respectively (purely to cover postage and packaging). For details of subscriptions and advertising please contact us on 020 7987 4320.

Jenny White

With special thanks to Akshay Davis for their photography in this issue YOUR LITTLE

BLACK BOOK

OF CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR

FAMILY FOOD & DRINK LOCAL SPOTLIGHT GADGETS INTERIORS FASHION SHOPPING PROPERTY

In partnership with

THE CITY & ANGEL MAGAZINE

CONTRIBUTORS Carrie Mitchell is a writer and editor who previously worked for InStyle and Elle magazine, writing about fashion, beauty and lifestyle. She is currently features and travel writer for Wedding magazine.

Lara Kavanagh is a writer and editor and covers events, food and drink, travel and the arts. Her experience includes work for Rough Guides, Expedia.com, lecool’s Weird and Wonderful Guide to London and Open Magazine.

Jamie Carter is a freelance journalist specializing in gadgets and technology, Jamie has written for the likes of T3, Home Cinema Choice and The Guardian as well as a number of websites.

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editor’spick

Workshop

Editor’s

pick

Exhibition

trEE dEcoration Workshop

at thE Making spacE

16 December, 6.30pm 10 Sunbury Workshops, Swanfield Street, E2 7LF With Christmas almost upon us, The Making Space near Old Street, is helping us get in the festive spirit by running a tree decoration workshop, where you can make your own seasonal decorations. With a beautiful selection of clear glass baubles, the rest is up to you – enjoy using translucent glass paints and metallic edging as well as learn to engrave so you can personalise your decorations. This charming festive workshop costs just £25 which covers all materials, the finest gin, delicious nibbles and a generally jolly old time.

Art GAllEry

photography

at hacknEy MusEuM On until 23 January 2010 Hackney Museum, Technology and Learning Centre, 1 Reading Lane, E8 1GQ Celebrated photographer and local resident, Dennis Morris, has generously donated over 100 of his early photographs to Hackney Council’s Exhibition, Growing Up Black. Having started his career aged 11 years old when one of his photographs was printed on the front page of the Daily Mirror, he has been a camera fanatic since the age of eight. His young career really took off when he bunked off school to go wait for Bob Marley to arrive for soundcheck at the Speak Easy Club on Margaret Street. After befriending Marley, and going on tour with him and The Wailers, Dennis’s photographs became world famous, appearing on the front cover of Time Out and Melody Maker before Dennis had even turned 17. This exhibition provides a real insight into Black British culture.

daMiEn hirst

at thE WhitE cubE On until 30 January 2010 48 Hoxton Square, N1 6PB www.whitecube.com Presenting nineteen new paintings by Damien Hirst, White Cube will be staging the exhibition at White Cube Mason’s Yard and White Cube Hoxton Square. Damien swaps taxidermy for a paintbrush for his latest London show, ‘Nothing Matters.’ Among the many paintings of carrion crows, skulls, knives, empty pill bottles, corpses and other mortal intimations is a series of portraits in chalk white and inky blue.

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littleblackbook

LITTLE BLACK BOOK This month’s best deals, bargains and must-haves – get your pens at the ready!

GO WILD THIS NEW YEAR’S EVE

The Old Queen’s Head New Year’s Eve parties have become legendary and this year will be no exception. Featuring headline DJ sets from The Maccabees and Mr Thing, the bar will be transformed into a fully fledged zoo, complete with cages, life-sized animals and foliage. With free complementary cocktails on arrival it is guaranteed to be an untamed night of fun. 44 Essex Road, N1 8LN 020 7354 9993 / www.theoldqueenshead.com

FESTIVE CHEER

The Old Truman Brewery is spreading some Christmas cheer with a spectacular shopping event. Featuring the first ever pop-up emporium, All I Want For Xmas is a unique experience featuring a wide variety of exclusive goods on sale from independent retailers in the form of gift markets, exhibitions and designer sales. The Old Truman Brewery, F Block, 1st Floor entrances from Ely’s Yard, 15 Hanbury Street and 81 Brick Lane. On until Christmas.

CHRISTMAS ON THE CANAL

A Christmas market will accompany the opening of City Road Basin Plaza on 20 December 2009. The plaza is a new public square at the head of the City Road Basin, part of the Regent’s Canal network. This is the first public square to be opened in London since 2007 and it will be the first time this part of the Regent’s Canal has been accessible to the public since 1820. Free festive activities will be on offer, with carol singing, mulled wine and mince pies, boat trips and Santa’s Grotto on board the Angel Canal Boat to get you in the festive spirit. City Road Basin Plaza, EC1 12-5pm FREE ENTRY

GET MORE OUT OF LONDON THIS NEW YEAR If you are looking for the perfect Christmas gift for the person who has everything and loves to socialise, then a membership with Bon Vivant is the ideal present. A concierge and luxury lifestyle management service, Bon Vivant is designed for those who want to start enjoying life’s luxuries. Created to free up your precious time, the membership provides you with many perks including exclusive treatment and complimentary benefits. Bon Vivant is currently running a special promotion where membership fees are reduced by £100 per month. www.bonvivant.co.uk

localfocus

COUNCIL MINUTES

TEAM EFFORT

A ROUND UP OF WHAT ISLINGTON COUNCIL IS DOING FOR THE BOROUGH…

Islington Council and the borough’s other main statutory bodies have signed an agreement with the local voluntary sector to strengthen the way in which they will work together to improve the lives of people in Islington. Groups such as NHS Islington, Fire, Police and Prison Services have signed the agreement with the aim to avoid misunderstandings and mistrust which may get in the way of productive relationships and hamper the ability of all who work together.

MYSTERY SOLVED

A mystery gardener who transformed a strip of barren wasteland on a housing estate into a lush oasis has been tracked down and handed a prestigious prize. Juana Roa Torres first planted seedlings five years ago in the rubbish-filled gravel pit next to her flat in Cedar Court, off Essex Road. Now the plot is flourishing and the judges for this year’s Islington in Bloom competition were so impressed they awarded the land first prize for “Best Forgotten Corner”. Green-fingered Juana had no idea she had won a prize - or that a hunt was under way to track her down. “I’m delighted, but I would have tried even harder if I’d known judges were looking at my handiwork.”

JUST THE JOB More jobs are in the pipeline for Islington’s young people, after the borough secured £1.8million of government funding. Working with the charity Groundwork and other local organisations, the plan is to create 167 new work opportunities by next March, with money from the Future Jobs Fund. New jobs

will include roles at arts and community organisations, work in children’s and adult social care and horticultural jobs. Each job will last at least six months and will provide valuable work experience and training. For information: 020 7527 4486, Islingtonworking@islington.gov.uk

WAR ON WASTE Islington’s residents are being praised for their environmental efforts, after the borough bagged three major awards. Islington Council won the “Best Local Authority Recycling Initiative”, “Consistent Commitment to Developing Environmental Awareness & Sustainability” and the third award was jointly won with the

www.islington.gov.uk

North London Waste Authority for Watch Your Waste Week, which saw volunteers almost halving their waste. Councillor Greg Foxsmith, Islington Council’s executive member for environment, said: “Of course it’s better not to produce the waste in the first place – and these awards show we’re moving in the right direction.”

Enquiries: 020 7527 2000

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10:18

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YOURSELF THIS CHRISTMAS

something for everyone at ISLINGTON’S SHOPPING, EATING AND ENTERTAINMENT DESTINATION – JUST 2 MINUTES WALK FROM ANGEL TUBE

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100 CAR PARKING SPACES

Music Man Jenny White discovers how DJ and Presenter, Trevor Nelson has managed to stay at the top of his game, what he really thinks of the X Factor phenomenon and his predictions for 2010

revor Nelson is throwing an intimate New Year’s Eve Party: for a mere 800 people. Calling in some friends to help get things started, the DJ / Presenter is throwing the bash to end all parties. With a champagne cocktail reception and spreading over two rooms at the Guildhall Vaults near Old Street,

he will be playing R&B and club classics in one room while old school soul and hip hop, rare groove and swing will be pumping out of the other. “I throw a New Year’s Eve party every year, although this is the first time I am holding it at the Guildhall. It is my way of thanking everyone who has supported me and it is nice to see the New Year in with

interview likeminded people,” says Trevor. “I just want it to be intimate and sociable,” he explains despite the planned £10,000 worth of décor and current ticket sales. “These are the nights when I don’t feel like I am working, this is one night where I am going to have a proper drink and not feel the pressure. And it’s within walking distance of where I live!” It is hard to imagine that after almost 25 years in the music business Trevor would still

“

I walked away from that busIness because I couldn’t be the sImon cowell kInd of guy; It Isn’t In me

”

feel the pressure. He has more than proved himself in a tough and fickle industry and when it comes to music, the man knows his stuff. Growing up in Hackney, Trevor’s first real taste of the music world was a job working in A&R for record labels Cooltempo and EMI, promoting artists such as D’Angelo, Mica Paris and Lynden David Hall. “I did A&R at a record company and today some of my friends from back then are now MDs of music companies but I walked away from that business because I couldn’t be the Simon Cowell kind of guy; it isn’t in me,” explains Trevor without a hint of regret. “You have to be honest with yourself and if it’s not in your personality then I don’t think you should do it just because you can.” Synonymous with British R&B, if not black music in general, Trevor began DJ-ing on pirate radio station Kiss (later Kiss FM) and in 1996 moved to BBC Radio 1 to present the first UK national R&B show Rhythm Nation. “I am very proud of all that I have done and what it has achieved. I remember when I first joined Radio 1 and listened to their playlist, I thought, ‘Um, where do I fit in?’” says the

local Old Street resident. “The three records that I really pushed to go on the playlist at the start were Killing Me Softly by the Fugees, Return of the Mac by Mark Morrison and Busta Rhymes, Whoo-Ha. Two of them got to number one and that’s when I thought, ‘I do fit in here.’ I also saw the power of Radio 1 and how important the show would be to the station and the music scene.” In the beginning, Trevor’s job was to champion artists that hadn’t been heard before; he now admits that he feels ‘the job is done.’ “In the early days when I was at Kiss or the early days of Radio 1, if someone gave me a demo in the street I would rush home to play it and want to put it on the radio the next day. However, that isn’t my job anymore, my job is to play an artist and take them to the next level,” explains Trevor who still, after 13 years, is doing his Radio 1 show, as well as Radio 1Xtra and Radio 2. “Nowadays there are DIY ways of getting yourself known. Everyone is Facebook, Bebo and MySpace active and in that sense the job is done. There is no real excuse if you are talented not to get heard, so now my job is to keep them up there, not so much to break them. To keep people listening to them and of course a bit of quality control.” With the first national R&B radio show under his belt, Trevor began his career in front of the cameras at MTV with The Lick, the seed from which the specialist urban music channel MTV Base grew. After 11 years, The Lick took its final bow this year and Trevor openly admits that it was for financial reason that it was pulled. “After we celebrated five years of the show, I thought ‘Wow, that’s great.’ Most people only last about five years on MTV, but it was a phenomenal show really. At one point it was broadcast in 43 countries and if it was still on now people

would still watch it but it is an expensive show to make and it isn’t realistic to continue it. I would never let the show drop in quality just to save pennies or for some budget. A legacy is a legacy.” Trevor claims not to be ambitious, which hard to believe looking at his CV; although not calculated about the choices he makes in business, he won’t do something for fame or even the money. “I never wanted to do music for the money. I have always felt a little bit uncomfortable gratuitously trying to make money and to be seen pointlessly trying to rake it in,” confesses Trevor with likeable honesty. “It may make me sound boring but I don’t think money can compensate for being laughed at sometimes.” Directing this comment at the celebrityobsessed culture we are all somehow caught up in,Trevor makes the point that the business has become a ‘hustle’ and anyone can be famous without being famous for anything. “I am glad I got in the game when I did because at least I am known for something. I try my best to avoid doing things that I think compromise me and in this celebrity obsessed stage, it is very hard to keep your career on track,” says the father of two. “I find that my day job as a DJ has been cheapened a lot because everyone seems to be a DJ. But I am not complaining, I am doing OK, and as long as I can eat and I am alright then I have no desire to be a monster celeb.”

interview

“

I was wIth marIah (carey) last week and she lIves In her own world, admIttedly, but she Is the most successful female artIst, so she can

Having had chances to break into more mainstream work and join the superstar business men of the music world, Trevor decided to opt out. “I have dipped my toe into the lifestyle of the rich and famous and don’t doubt for one minute that it hasn’t crossed my mind that I would like to live like P.Diddy,” laughs Trevor. “I have spent time with P.Diddy, partied with him and his starting life wasn’t dissimilar to mine – he worked in a record company at a young age, I did too; I had a brand, The Lick and I could have done merchandising with it, like P.Diddy has done with his, however I always thought it was more of an American thing to do than a British thing and I don’t know I have always felt a if I would have liked it, its just not lIttle bIt uncomfortable my personality to be that brash.” gratuItously tryIng to Recently stepping outside his make money and to be seen music comfort zone, the avid sports poIntlessly tryIng to rake fan has taken to hosting the Channel It In Five American Football show NFLUK on Saturday mornings. Meeting the major league players and superstars of the football world is exciting for Trevor who has been following the game for the last few

“

”

years. But what Trevor brings to this show and - what you sense has been the reason behind his success - is his ability to chat to the biggest stars as though they were best buddies. Having spent time interviewing the likes of Mary J Blige, James Brown, Kanye West and Whitney Houston, as well as his one of favourite interviewees, Stevie Wonder, - “who sat with a keyboard on his lap and every time you mentioned one of his songs he would sing it,”- Trevor is very good at comprehending the world they live in, without getting caught up in it. “I was with Mariah (Carey) last week and she lives in her own world, admittedly, but she is the most successful female artist, so she can. She had a little melt down and she was off the scene for a while and we missed her because there are so many people pretending to be divas but there is no point pretending, you might as well be a total diva – we need these women,” laughs Trevor, who admits the only diva behaviour you will see from him is his request for the rind to be cut of his bacon sandwich every morning at work. “She has a huge entourage, I have witnessed it but I don’t hate her for it. She wants a pink toilet – so what!” Trevor’s predictions for British music in 2010 include the continued Grime-Pop phenomenon that was seen in 2009 and a thankful continued move away from American rap. But when it comes to the Christmas Number One it is an easy prediction to make. “Forget the suspense when you are listening to the charts at Christmas, the X Factor winner will almost certainly get it and I think that is sad,” says Trevor. “X Factor and shows alike have made the charts predictable but at the same time I can’t knock it because I look at someone like Alexandra Burke, where it wouldn’t have been guaranteed that a girl like her would ever get a record deal despite how good she is. And there is no doubt that these shows are saving the record industry. Although it is all going into Simon Cowell’s pocket, record sales are sustaining because of these shows.” Trevor’s main criticism of the X Factor genre is the way ‘they smash people’s dreams in front of the nation, it’s not nice.’ And from this, it is clear to see why Trevor has never become a monster celeb; he has principles and is able to see beyond the fame and so-called glamour of celebdom. “If you can balance it and keep yourself interested then I think that is the key to staying in the game long term. I have got the balance just right at the moment. I realise money and working too hard is not always the way forward, it took a divorce to realise that,” reflects Trevor. “You realise you got to be happy and do things that make you fulfilled which is hard in this day and age but at the moment I am pretty happy.” Our prediction: Trevor is set for a happy 2010. n For tickets for Trevor Nelson’s New Years Eve Party: www.ticketweb.co.uk

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HOXTON SQUARE Chad

hought to be one of the oldest squares in London, Hoxton Square is situated immediately north of the financial district, bordered by City Road on the west, Old Street on the south and Kingsland Road on the east. With new found popularity, it is one section of the Hoxton area, predominantly dominated by council housing, which has been gentrified. Now known for its cool nightlife and vibrant art scene, Hoxton Square has become home to a large number of bars, nightclubs, restaurants and art galleries. Home to industrial premises, Hoxton Square’s small industries which characterised the area were moved out after the manufacturing developments that took place following the Second World War. By the early 1980s, these industrial lofts and buildings

were occupied by young artists as inexpensive live/work spaces, while in the early 1990s exhibitions, raves and clubs occupied former offices. Although known during these times as where the best artists and trendsetters lived, developers shortly jumped on the chance to make over the neighbourhood, and now Hoxton is one of London’s more expensive areas. Despite the developments there’s still a thriving art scene today. Since 2000 the square’s buildings, which are still largely of Victorian vintage, have become host to a variety of bars, restaurants and clubs. The fashion scene has always been a big part of the vibe in the area, and Hoxton residents can be easily spotted by their obscure fashionable (or some say ironically unfashionable) clothes and one time their hair. One of Hoxton’s more famous creations

localfocus

is the so-called ‘Hoxton Fin’ – a fake Mohawk for those who want to be just punk enough and still keep a 9 to 5 job. All year round the square is an extremely popular and social part of the East End scene. Particularly during the summer months the large grass area in the centre of the square becomes an ocean of people, socialising, playing and listening to music and generally enjoying the exciting and lively vibe of this unique area of London. WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK: The main businesses found in Hoxton Square are its bars and restaurants, so there is never any shortage of places to satisfy your mood and tastes. Bluu in Hoxton Square is the original bar and brasserie of the London chain and offers hearty British food through out the day and into the evening when the basement becomes a cool and trendy place for late night drinking. At weekends local DJs and musicians supply the perfect audio backdrop and the individual booths and alcoves makes this the ideal place for intimate socialising. Next door to Bluu is Hoxton Square Bar and Kitchen and with a 450 capacity bar and restaurant, comprising of three separate bars, a restaurant and a gig venue, this the ideal spot to suit everyone’s needs on a night out. The music featured at Hoxton Square Bar and Kitchen is the embodiment of the Hoxton scene, with bands such as Ting Tings, The Hives, Dirty Pretty Things and Kate Nash having graced the stage. Another hip creative based bar is Zigfrid von Underbelly. Created by the elusive Zigfrid Von Underbelly, who according to the bar’s website was a Russian-Polish blueblood who came to Hoxton Square with the intention of setting up a place where punks could be at home. Although you may not see that many punks any more, it is certainly a cool place for artists and musicians to hang out

and with the owner Paul Daly, basing the club part on his Auntie Kathleen’s Dublin retirement home, it is a real home from home for many Hoxton locals. All the bars do great food most of the day round but if you are looking for just a restaurant than Hoxton Square has several that vary in price and cuisine.Yelo is a fantastic Thai restaurant, which was started by accomplished Thai born chef Ekchart Pullarp, who works full time in the Hoxton branch creating mouthwatering dishes to eat in or takeout. Across the square is Hoxton Apprentice, a charitable restaurant serving pan European cuisine. Giving a chance for those who have lost their way in life, Hoxton Apprentice trains apprentices to be chefs, waitresses and front of house, providing them with the skills that will secure them employment in the hospitality industry. A

Michelin-recommended restaurant, this social enterprise really works within the community to help others while delivering exceptional food. WHAT TO DO AND SEE: Standing prominently in the square is the White Cube Gallery and is a must to visit. Owned and run by art dealer Jay Jopling, White Cube first opened in a small, square room in 1993 in Duke Street in the West

End. Although it is one of the smallest exhibition spaces in Europe, it was arguably one of the most influential commercial galleries of the past decade. It moved to Hoxton Square in 2000 and is situated in a 1920s light industrial building. Since its inception, the gallery has exhibited work by many leading artisits including Tracey Emin, Damien Hirst and Franz Ackermann. Shopping wise, there are a few unique shops which provide somewhere to seek out exclusive purchases such as Lara Bohinc 107, a fabulous jeweller. Fusing meticulous architectural skills and creative vision, Slovenia born Lara’s innovative pieces are outstandingly refined and elegant. KK Outlet is the kind of hip, ‘multifunctional’ space you would expect to find in Hoxton Square. Not only is it a shop and gallery but also the offices of KesslsKramer, a communications agency whose clients include Diesel, MTV Japan and Absolut. Fusing art, work and design together, there is always something interesting on show or on sell and well worth a visit. Sh! Women’s Erotic Emporium is a friendly boutique in Hoxton Square offering girlies the chance to seek out playthings, books and erotica, in a relaxed, chilled-out environment. Customers are provided with a cup of tea on arrival and men are admitted only if accompanied by women – although with tea and titillating toys available who needs men?

WHILE YOU ARE THERE: Ever fancied flying through the air on a trapeze? Well, just around the corner from Hoxton Square, on Coronet Street, is The Circus Space where you can gain a full education in circus arts. One of the top three circus schools in Europe, you can book an instruction course from beginner to advanced in anything from clowning to acrobatics.  Photographer: Stefan Zander

THE PERFECT BLEND

ZILOUFS

Effortlessly cool with an understated charm, Ziloufs is the perfect place to unwind at the weekend. Regular DJ nights cover a broad range of old school jazz, funk, disco and soul alongside broken beats and techno.This quirky musical mix reflects Zilouf’s theme of celebrating the modern and classic in everything from decor and cuisine to its infamous, sumptuous cocktail combinations. Even the DJs get caught up in the culture clash, nestled in a stunning hollowed out antique piano from 10pm to 2am most Fridays and Saturdays. Look out for... ...Talented acoustic performers on Thursday and Sunday nights. Resident Carly King dazzles with her edgy yet powerfully melodic voice. 20 Upper Street, N1 2UQ / 0207226 1118 / www.ziloufs.com

OF THE BEST…

DJ BARS The best bars in North London that offer the hottest DJ sets this party season

SUPERSTAR DJ

THE OLD QUEEN’S HEAD The perfect pub/club combo, the Old Queen’s Head has top DJs playing every weekend. Saturday nights feature acclaimed resident DJ teams like Joe Ransom/Maximillian and Warrior One, offering a fun filled evening with quality music. Expect pumping sets with everything from pop to rock, hip hop to motown, indie to electro.Their Sunday Social offers live music, quality DJs as well as cracking roast dinners. Upcoming guest sets from Razorlight, electro punks Does It OffendYouYeah? and Huey Morgan from the Fun Lovin Criminals promise to get the party well and truly started. Look out for... ...The massive Zoo Year’s Eve party. The Old Queens Head will be transformed into a zoo for the night, with animal themed fancy dress. 44 Essex Road, Islington, London, N1 8LN/ 020 7354 9993/ www.theoldqueenshead.com

events

CUTTING-EDGE COOL

WAX JAMBU Start your weekend with cutting-edge beats in the cool, comfortable and friendly atmosphere of Wax Jambu.Take advantage of 2-for-1 cocktails between 5 and 7pm every Friday as you kick back to Fopp Press Play DJs cutting through the finest NewYork disco, hip-hop, Balearic beats, house & techno, sewn together by resident’s Simon Stuart and Oli P. Accompanying bespoke cocktails with alternative beats,Wax Jambu’s Saturday night residency Genre is run by dedicated DJs who are willing to step outside their defined style and play something different. Look out for... ...DJs Simon Stuart and Oli P this New Year. Hourly events and games until 4am makes this a New Year’s party of fun and frolicking. 144-145 Upper Street, Islington N1 1QY/ 020 7226 7660/ www.waxjambu.co.uk

DJ CENTRAL

EMBASSY Islington’s original DJ bar offers hours of pumping beats with an emphasis on the hippest urban cuts, house and hip hop, as well as plenty of recognizable club favourites to get the downstairs dance floor packed. DJ sets start around 8pm from Thursday through to Saturday, seeing the opulent ground floor and basement transform with all the qualities of a buzzing late night club.The busy Embassy calendar has not only internationally renowned DJs but also includes monthly live music slots. Look out for... ...Get your swagger on every Thursday night from 9pm to 1am with Meow at Embassy. DJ Ross Debos (Twice as Nice) and DJ Funksy spin the hottest soul, funk, rare grooves, R&B and hip-hop. 119 Essex Road Islington, N1 2SN/ 020 7226 7901/

GRANDMASTER FUNK

THE WINCHESTER

With resident DJs playing some of the most eclectic sets in London,The Winchester is one of the borough’s premier DJ hotspots. Every Friday and Saturday from 9pm, acclaimed DJs such as Phatplastic, Lazybones and Louisubsoleuk spin everything from raw 70’s funk to jump-up jungle via old-school hip-hop, never afraid to drop a forgotten classic or undiscovered gem as long as it’s got the all-important ‘funk factor’. Boozing and schmoozing upstairs flows into the intimate basement bar and seductive dancefloor, offering a funk-filled night out. Look out for... ...The irresistible New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball with DJs hitting the decks playing funk, soul and party classics until 4am January 1st. 2 Essex Road, N1 8LN/ 020 7704 8789/ www.thewinchesterbar.com

Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery

Islington n Located in the tranquil setting of Amwell Street in Islington n 2009 overall Ofsted rating - Good n Open 51 weeks per year from 7.30am - 6.30pm n £160 monthly deduction on congestion charge fees n Free places funded for 3-4 year olds n Highly qualified and well motivated staff n Fully equipped indoor and outdoor play areas

“Providing a secure, caring environment for children aged 3 months to 5 years” Monkey Puzzle Day Nursery Islington 27-29 Amwell Street, Islington London EC1R 1UN

To arrange a viewing at your convenience call Katerina Tel: 020 7833 4785

www.monkeypuzzlenurseries.com

kids

Kids

Corner

Get Festive

Admittedly it can only be worn during the Christmas period but this cute gift set, featuring Rudolf leather shoes and babygro, is the ideal way to get your little ones looking jolly good this Christmas. Go on, get in the festive spirit. www.kiddymania.co.uk, 01455 615 804, ÂŁ30

retro Fun

This vintage silver racing car is bound to bring back some memories from your childhood, as well as create new ones for your own children. Featuring a fully working chrome steering wheel, a radiator grill and fuel cap this classic racer will have everyone cheering on Christmas Day.

tent-tastiC

Let their imagination run away with them.This gorgeous hanging tent, strewn with blossoms, has a padded floor mat and internal voile curtains with storage pockets and tie-backs. It is the perfect base to explore the jungle in their bedroom or to use as a hideaway with friends; guaranteed to be a favourite present. www.funkykidsfurniture.co.uk, 01531 650 974

www.littlebabycompany.com

a little ruFFled

This pettiskirt with mountains of ruffles is all about the fun factor. Team with a little t-shirt to create the perfect party outfit and your little one will feel like the ultimate fairy princess this festive season. www.minigiants.com, 020 8736 0584

sittinG Pretty

The perfect Christmas gift for your teenager, these bright groovy print beanbags can be used out doors as well in the den or playroom. Ideal for reading, watching TV or entertaining their mates, this lounger gives them their own space and will be a welcomed present this Christmas. www.funkykidsfurniture.co.uk, 01531 650 974

health&beauty

BEAUTY SPARKLE THIS FESTIVE SEASON

ith the onslaught of Christmas shindigs, family gatherings and the all important New Year’s Eve party, this is the one time of year where there is every excuse to add a little glitter to your make up look. Whether you opt for a dusting of shimmer to your face or go for a sprinkling of sparkle to your eye make up, this is the one time we insist you allow yourself to embrace the bling.

MAC Pigment Powder Try this Old Gold colour to create either a subtle effect or a dramatic flair to your eye make up. If you don’t fancy going over the top with the sparkle, then this shade is the ideal way to add just a hint of festive fun to your make up. Available from: www.maccosmetics.co.uk, £15

Bidadari Shimmering Oil, Sanctuary Fragranced with Jasmine and sensuous Ylang Ylang and flecked with golden simmer, this Shimmering Oil from the Sanctuary range will give your skin a glowing radiance whilst leaving you smelling delicious.

Illamasqua Limited Edition Silver Birthday Lashes

Available from: www.thesanctuary.co.uk, £9.95

Add a touch of drama to your look this festive season with these utterly fabulous high shine, diamante false lashes. The perfect party accessory, they are the ideal way to add a bit of sparkle. Available from: www.illamasqua.com, £25

Dior Cristal Boreal Crystal Gloss Jewel Dior’s brief to Swarovski when designing their new Christmas lip gloss was simple: it had to dazzle, just like the reflection of sunrays in the famous Galerie des Glaces in Versailles. And Dazzle it does. The crystal covered Oval pendant houses a sparkle-effect gloss that imparts a beautiful iridescent sheen – stunning! Available from: Most department stores

Barry M Cosmetics Glitter Liquid Eyeliner Bejewel your eyes with this easy to use eyeliner to get a flawless Christmas look. In seven ultra sparkly shades, it is the perfect way to get into the fun festive spirit of the season. Available from: www.barrym.com, £4.95

health&beauty

new year,

new man

Alex Freeman discovers a penchant for pampering that leaves him feeling relaxed, de-stressed and altogether a new man

like to consider myself a modern man. I do my fair share of the cooking and the cleaning and I don’t mind admitting that I occasionally use the face scrub that my girlfriend brought me last Christmas. I’m not opposed to hair products, nice smelling aftershave or even the odd hot soak in a bubble bath. However, after returning from a particularly stressful work trip, my reaction to my other half’s suggestion of a relaxing facial and massage wasn’t particularly ‘New Man’ of me. Caveman grunts of bewilderment as to why I would want such a treatment were followed by a resounding ‘No.’ My initial reaction was still with me as I lay on the treatment bed, my therapist examining my face, and questioning my ‘skin type.’ I had ventured to EXM Beauty, a contemporary beauty salon in the heart of

Exmouth Market and sister salon to 171 on Upper Street. Despite my apprehension, on arrival I was made to feel at ease straight away - mainly thanks to the fact that no one seemed to bat a perfectly styled eyelash when I explained what I was there for. After the preliminary consultation, my treatment started with a back and shoulder massage - using essential oils of course! As my therapist began to knead all the stress induced knots from my back, I could feel myself relaxing. All the tensions gained from working in front of a computer for hours on end seemed to disperse with every firm rub and squeeze, and as I drifted away with the Enya-style music I ImagIned I humming in the background, I allowed was workIng the my body to sink into headband In a more the bed. So far nothing John mcenroe, than ParIs hIlton, too emasculating… style and haPPIly Well, that was until I was wrapped laId back as the second half of the in a very fetching treatment began headband for the start of my facial. But at this point in the treatment I was beginning to feel comfortable and happy to go with the flow of being pampered. I imagined I was working the headband in a more John McEnroe, than Paris Hilton, style and happily laid back as the second half of the treatment began. My therapist explained that she planned to cleanse, steam, exfoliate, extract, massage and then finally apply a mask to my face. Now, I won’t lie, I was somewhat apprehensive about what fate lay ahead of me. But as I was gently talked through every step, I began to float off and by the time it came to the ‘extracting’ part of the treatment, I was drifting in and out of semi-consciousness quite happily. Leaving the salon, I immediately felt re-energised and rested, and at the risk of sounding a little feminine, my skin really did look a lot fresher and clearer. But if anything it was nice just to take some time out for myself, relax and be pampered. So, it seems that I have added a new attribute to my ‘new man’ persona, one of which I am quite happy to partake in again. n

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48 Exmouth Market, Clarkenwell, EC1R 4QE

health&beauty

Re-educating

youR body Jonathan Hunt explains that by re-educating our mind-body processes through Hanna Somatic Education, we will be able to heal injuries and stresses inflicted on our bodies.

rom my window at the Healthy Living Centre in Islington, I watch as women totter past in their heels whilst men lug around heavy laptops bags and both slouch into cabs and return to slumping in front of their computers. Modern life has put a severe strain on all of our bodies, skewing our spines and shrugging our shoulders until our postures are completely bent out of shape. This is something that I, as a Hanna Somatic specialist, aim to tackle. Hanna Somatic Education is a system of re-educating the mind-body process in a way that will ensure more comfortable movement for the rest of your life. HSE differs from manipulative therapies in that no physical adjustments are made by the practitioner. The client is actively Hanna Somatic education involved throughout the treatment iS a SyStem oF Re-educating making HSE a first person process. This tHe mind-body pRoceSS way the client initiates change from within and because of this can expect more profound and longer lasting improvements. As well as healing physical maladies, Hanna Somatic Education can also improve internal and psychological complaints such as headaches, fatigue, IBS, insomnia and breathing difficulties. This is because the majority of all ailments can be attributed to bad comportment brought on by tension habits in the muscles.

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Injuries and stress (both physical and emotional) can cause us to automatically tighten up in pain or shock which triggers compression in the joints, fatigue in the muscles and nerve entrapment. Tension habits must be eradicated and better control of muscles introduced. The brain’s adaptability makes this learning possible. A one-to-one session will consist of slow motion type movements that awaken your ability to sense and move your body deliberately, freely and naturally. Clients are guided through a variety of these slow, mindful movements to increase awareness, movement potential, reduce pain and manage stress. At the end of these sessions clients are taught Somatic exercises which they should perform at home every day. These are easy to do, can take as little as five minutes and are the key to long term success. As babies we carry ourselves perfectly; backs straight and best foot forward; but throughout our lives we gradually pick up harmful habits and can damage our bodies as a result. Hanna Somatic Education merely aims to reverse those habits and to return our bodies to their original functioning best. n For further information: www.somaticliving.com, or the Healthy Living Centre, 282-284 St Pauls Road, London N1 2LH

city&angelpromotion

ULTRASMILE* INTRODUCES NEW TOOTH WHITENING SENSATION FROM KöR Your smile is one of your biggest assets. It is the first thing people notice about you and a brighter, whiter smile can help you stand out from the crowd and make a memorable impression. UltraSmile* (winner of UK’s Private Practice of the Year) has now extended its whitening services to include the new and revolutionary KöR whitening System which is aimed at those with heavily stained teeth, for whom conventional whitening procedures are not suitable. The KoR Whitening Deep Bleaching TM System was developed by world renowned American dentist, Dr Rod Kurthy. The system produces dramatic whitening results, even on heavily stained and tetracycline-stained cases. The KöR whitening has been ranked the highest, as the most effective and reliable way to whiten your teeth by ‘Dental Product Shopper’, a highly respected dental journal in the USA. No other dental product of any type has ever been ranked higher than KöR Whitening, and it is the only whitening system to have ever received a rating of “Best Product”. How does it work? The KöR, like other bleaching systems, works on the principle of applying a whitening gel to the teeth. The whiteness of the teeth depends upon the strength of the whitening gel and how long it remains on the teeth. KöR whitening however, allows dentists greater freedom to control the strength of the whitening gel and the length of time that it is used in the whitening process. It is this aspect of control with the KöR, that allows UltraSmile* dentists to achieve superior whitening results for patients. Why use the KöR? The KöR whitening system claims to be able to whiten even the toughest stained teeth, including tetracycline stained teeth. Indeed, case studies have shown this to be the case. The reason the KöR system is able to do this, is believed to be due to the superior fit of the custom made trays that are worn by the patient throughout the whitening process. The tight seal of the trays, allows oxygen to be absorbed deeply into the teeth, thus allowing deeply ingrained stain molecules to be dissolved. Teeth that have been whitened by the KöR whitening system can, in some cases, produce a whitening result which is 20 shades lighter. The KöR system is a tried and tested system. It is safe, painless and produces stunning results. What is the process? Firstly, a super-accurate impression of the patient’s teeth and gum line is taken by an UltraSmile* dentist. It is from this impression that the custom moulded trays are made. The patient is then booked in for a second visit, where the teeth are conditioned with a whitening gel. Next, the patient returns home with the custom moulded trays. Each night before bed, the patient applies a whitening gel into the trays

and wears the trays all night for two weeks. By the end of the 2 weeks, the patient will usually notice a dramatic improvement in the appearance of their teeth. In addition to increased whiteness, the condition of the teeth will also appear improved because teeth will be more permeable to oxygen. This improved condition of the teeth allows teeth to appear whiter for longer. Finally, the patient returns to the practice for one final whitening visit with UltraSmile*. At this appointment, the dentist will apply a high concentration whitening gel to the teeth for approximately one hour. After this time, the patient is free to go and will leave UltraSmile* with a whiter, more beautiful smile. UltraSmile* is the only registered practice in England to offer the amazing new KöR Whitening Deep Bleaching™ System For more information on the KöR Whitening Deep Bleaching™ System, please contact UltraSmile* (winner of the UK’s Private Practice of the Year) on 0207 093 4488 or visit www.ultrasmile.co.uk. Mention this article and get a 15% discount off the cost of this fantastic treatment for Christmas. This is a limited time only offer.

fashion xxxxxxx

FASHION

NEWS

This month’s latest trends…

AUDREY AUCTION: 8 DECEMBER When the iconic Breakfast at Tiffany’s cocktail dress was bought in an auction for an incredible £410,000, the fashion world was rife with speculation... Whatever the identity of the mystery shopper, the rumour mill is oiling its wheels as further Hepburn items go under the hammer this month. Imagine Givenchy hats, silk coats, evening gowns and even the lace cocktail dress Audrey wore in How to Steal a Million in 1966, the haute couture gown worn in Love in the Afternoon in 1956 as well as letters, photographs, accessories and ivory satin bridal gown.

ULTRA JEWELLERY Monochrome has been heralded as the leading look of the season ranging from suits to stilettos to jewellery and designers at Chanel is no exception. The Chanel Ultra Jewellery collection consists of a juxtaposition of black and white tones set off in a backdrop of gold and diamonds bringing classic and versatile pieces that are the epitome of Chanel. Extremely wearable, these pieces would look fabulous with a simple shift dress or one of their luxe wool suits. Available from Selfridges.

BARGAIN OF THE MONTH:

GIRL MEETS DRESS

When the words ‘party’ and ‘borrow’ are on a website’s frontline, you know you’re in for a treat. Girlmeetsdress. com is a godsend for those of us who want to get our hands on the likes of a Lanvin couture piece without the financial commitment. With a range of dresses retailing between £300-3,000. www.girlmeetsdress.com

SHOP OF THE MONTH: NO. 35

Owner and designer Andrea Cohen celebrates the pleasure of shopping itself in her fashion boutiques in Highgate and Chelsea, offering expert advice to the highest profile clients and dressing many of our city’s most powerful women. www.no35.co.uk

BUY OF THE MONTH:

MILITARY TAILORING Prepare to stand to attention as the military look storms the runway this season with the likes of D&G and John Galliano leading the way. D&G military jacket, £995 from www.matchesfashion.com

Two of the hottest trends collide when Rule Britannia meets sequins with this clutch from Lulu Guiness (£275), go on add some sparkle to your LBD this Christmas. www.mywardrobe.com

WEBSITE OF THE MONTH: Online shopping certainly has its perks and now women of all shapes and sizes have an easier and more practical way to shop with the launch of this new website that allows customers to shop by body shape from a wide range of retailers. www.joyofclothes.com

TREND OF THE MONTH: THE BOLD SHOULDER

As if that wasn’t enough for style icons, the auction will also feature items from the wardrobe of Marie Helvin, one of the very first supermodels, known for her high fashion rock n’ roll style and personality both on and off the catwalk. With evening wear by Bruce Oldfield, Rifat Ozbek, Belville Sassoon,Yves Saint Laurent and Ossie Clark as well as superb bags and accessories mainly by Chanel and Hermes. La Galleria, 30 Royal Open Arcade, Pall Mall 020 8676 4600 www.kerrytaylorauctions.com

Designers like DKNY are all over the 1940s look this season with highwaisted pencil skirts in pinstripes and co-ordinating jackets. Team with red accents for full-on glamour.

fashion

Shop Til You Drop Trends forecaster, Nick Paget gives you the inside track to key fashion trends, how to style them, and where to track down those must have items in Islington

est sales shopping advice? Seek out cut-price classics in quality fabrics, then hold off until the new season’s stock comes in because fashion’s having a fickle moment again, turning its back on winter’s hedonistic excesses and bringing us lighter, softer looks. Feminine but holding back on frills, there’s even a neat military edge emerging that stops short of being masculine. Soft, romantic colours and lingerie inspirations provide a floaty, girly element, pinned down and made functional to create really wearable pieces. It’s likely that on-trend chain stores such as Oasis and FCUK at N1 will have their take on the military/ feminine mix while vintage shops maximise on dainty florals and sheer layers. For men, a similar revolution is on the cards, as stiff and formalised looks give way to a less structured silhouette. Ethnic-inspired garments from all over the globe are mixed together, playing on length and proportion to deliver a confident look made up of culturereferencing pieces that above all deliver comfort and cool. Colour is reigned in tight with classic blues and greys highlighted with shots of sun-bleached pastels and the odd saturated shade of summery lilac or sage. This time-honoured palette is one which suits most men. So, come spring expect to see naval shades and traditional city-wear colours which have a ‘useby’ date that extends past the week they were purchased in. Expect Next and GAP at N1 to make soft, ethnic styles accessible to even the most conservative male, while FCUK at N1, Sefton and Diverse should doff their cap to jazzier colour, print, pattern and that looser, less tailored silhouette. n

Black chiffon halterneck jumpsuit, £1,295, Maria Grachvogel, 162 Sloane St, SW1, 020 7245 9331 Black leather ‘Cosmo’ jacket £2,100, Jitrois, Sloane Street, SW1, 020 7245 6300

SUICIDE BLONDE

Photography by: Oly Barnsley Fashion Editor: Lucie Dodds

Black tweed chain cap, ÂŁ1,200 and black tweed and lace sequin and pearl shoulder cocktail dress from ÂŁ2,100 both Chanel, 020 7493 5040

Black organdy flock spot frilled hem dress, £1,895, Jasper Conran, 020 7292 9080, www.jasperconran.com Lace gloves, £39, Cornelia James at Fenwick, New Bond St, W1, 020 7629 9161 Black patent platform ‘Gesture’ stilettos, £435, Jimmy Choo, 020 7823 1051, www.jimmychoo.com Black ankle socks and black top hat, stylists own.

Hair: Choccy at One Make-up using Bumble & Bumble Make-up: Yvette Redmond at Tiger Creative using Chanel Beige Fragrance, Lotion Confort Toner, Hydramax + Active Serum and Hydramax + Active Moisture Fluid Moisturiser, Eye Tonic Dark Circle Corrector Eye Cream, Vitalumiere Eclat Comfort Radiance Compact Makeup in Beige Pastel, Lift Lumiere Smoothing and Rejuvenating Eye Contour Concealer, Sculpte Sourcils Sculpting Brow Pencil in 51 Blond Clair, Les Tissages Lames De Chanel Shimmering Tweed Highlighter, Joues Contraste Powder Blush in 44 Narcisse, Quatuor Boutons de Chanel Les Folies Noires Eyeshadow, La Ligne De Chanel Professional Duo Eyeliner in Noir Lame & Ecriture de Chanel, Automatic Liquid Eyeliner in Noir /Black, Inimitable Multi-Dimensional Mascara in Noir Obscur, Rouge Allure Laque Lumious Satin Lip Laquer in 7, Le Vernis Nail Colour in Vendetta Model: Alicja at Premier Model Management. Thanks to Maxine.

What a Load of trIpe Real food pioneer and founder of St John, Fergus Henderson chats to Jenny White about the beauty of lunch, offal and how he has ended up on his peculiar culinary path

t is said that breakfast is our most important meal, giving us the fuel we need to get through the day. Well, Chef Fergus Henderson disagrees, instead advocating lunch as the meal to take the time out for. “Lunch is the first aperitif of the day. By the time you have lunch your body is totally woken up. Supper is the punctuation mark to the day before you go to bed, whereas lunch is about the rest of the day, about

the potential ahead,” Fergus enthuses. “Lunch is a launch pad for who knows what – it is fantastic.” Famed chef and owner of St John restaurant in Smithfield and sister restaurant, St John Bread and Wine near Spitalfields, Fergus Henderson has made his name thanks partly to his love affair with offal. Having opened St John in 1994 with business partner Trevor Gulliver, Fergus led the revival of meaty, masculine, English food by following his defining principle of nose-to-tail cooking. “If you are going to knock an animal on the head it’s only polite to eat it all,” explains Fergus. “People always say that my cooking is some kind of great concept but it’s not really, its common sense, use the whole beast.” Following in the footsteps of both his parents, Fergus trained as an architect at the Architectural Association in London but thanks to the ‘fickle finger of fate,’ he became distracted by the kitchen. Having always had an ‘unhealthy’ interest in cookbooks, it was during his time training as an architect that he started cooking seriously with a holiday job in a kitchen, followed by his first proper kitchen in a little place on Mercer Street in Covent Garden. After meeting his wife Margot, they both took over the dining room at The French House pub in Soho, where they quickly earned a loyal following. With no official training or mentor, Fergus has always been one to pursue his own direction. “I have always had my own kitchen and not training under anyone has allowed me to follow my own peculiar path,” chuckles Fergus. “It has given me a natural momentum which has allowed me to chase my own nose.”

food&drink Fergus met Trevor over dinner. Having already spotted the site on which St John’s now resides, Trevor was keen to get Fergus involved. The building was once, very fittingly, a butcher’s block from Smithfield meat market. Half Georgian townhouse and half old smokehouse, the last smoking having taken place in 1967, the building has been used for various purposes in the past, including growing bean sprouts, the HQ of Marxism Today and a dwelling for squatters. The architect in Fergus could see the potential, and without taking away from its original look, placed a bar and bakery in the old smoking room, the restaurant in the old packing room and added 20 foot skylights. “It is interesting that both restaurant buildings are all marginal and not seen as restaurants. St John, you have to commit yourself down a path to get to it, and Bread and Wine was a bank and the windows are high so you don’t see in straight away,” explains Fergus, who was awarded an MBE in 2005. “The buildings are strange but I guess it appeals to one’s quirky nature.” There is nothing ostentatious about St John, but therein lies its charm. The white walls with no artwork, the terse and super old fashioned menu have made this place an institution and a favourite with the art crowd – although Fergus is unsure why this is; “Perhaps it is the fact that we don’t have any art on the walls?” The food is salt-of-the-earth cooking and the focus is entirely on seasonal and local food – “Is there any other way of cooking?” Presentation is simple and despite the reputation for offal there are usually some interesting meat-free dishes on the menu. Declared the 14th greatest restaurant in the world, St John has just this year received a Michelin Star. “It is exciting to be awarded a Michelin Star but we weren’t looking for it. Nothing has really changed apart from, like everything, we have grown up in the last 15 years but we haven’t aimed ourselves to please Michelin,” says Fergus very matter-of-factly. “Who knows why we got it but it is happily received and our chefs are very excited about it.” Fergus’s ‘common sense’ cooking has made his cookery books extremely popular, with his first, ‘Nose to Tail Eating: A Kind of British Cooking’ providing recipes incorporating trotters, tripe, kidneys, chitterlings and other animal parts. “At the beginning there were a lot of offal puns. People used to like, “Oh you are offal but we like you,” or “oh you’re offaly nice.” But the pun situation seems to have improved and nowadays it is a lot less,” says Fergus with a smile. “It is hard to know what brings people here, but what seems to have happened are tables of City boys saying lets try the scariest thing on the menu. But that’s not the point. It is on the menu because it is delicious; it’s

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It Is hard to know what brIngs people here, but what seems to have happened are tables of CIty boys sayIng lets try the sCarIest thIng on the menu. but that’s not the poInt. It Is on the menu beCause It Is delICIous; It’s not there to be sCary

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food&drink

not there to be scary.” Today, Fergus oversees the kitchen, having not been active in the cooking department for a few years due to having been diagnosed with Parkinson’s. “Stepping out of the kitchen… that was a bit of a bore. It was certainly gloomy but those I have working for me seem to be true to the cause so it is all good,” says Fergus. “It is very important that those taking over all have the same vision as me.”

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If YOu ARE gOINg TO kNOck AN ANIMAL ON ThE hEAD IT’S ONLY POLITE TO EAT IT ALL

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I am sure he will hate to hear it, but Fergus bears the weight of his illness lightly and with admirable bravery and good humour. In 2006 he underwent deep brain stimulation, a revolutionary form of surgery which, while it does not cure the disease, it can help to control a patient’s jerks and shakes. A tremor in Fergus’s left arm was what forced him out the kitchen as it would windmill all over the place. Today, the tremor has all but disappeared. “It is fairytale stuff. I am transformed,” smiles the 46 year old. “I don’t feel I have Parkinson’s which is amazing. I have a very good tummy since the operation because it is so much better than it was, I used to flair around so much it was like a constant workout.” Unfailingly polite, obliging and extremely modest about what he has achieved, Fergus always sees things as a positive. He may not cook anymore at St John but the upside is that to keep an eye on his chefs he visits the restaurant every day, and sits in the kitchen and eats something from the lunch menu. “It is a lovely job.You couldn’t find a happier job or for that matter a happier man.” n

St. JOHN Bar & Restaurant Smithfield 26 St John Street, EC1M 4AY St. JOHN Bread & Wine Spitalfields 94-96 Commercial Street, E1 6LZ 020 7251 0848, www.stjohnrestaurant.co.uk Photographer: Laurie Fletcher

ROAST BONE MARROW AND PARSLEYSALAD (serves 4) IngredIents:

MetHOd:

This is the one dish that does not change on the menu at St. John. The marrowbone comes from a calf’s leg; ask your butcher to keep some for you. You will need teaspoons or long thin implements to scrape your marrow out of the bone.

Put the bone marrow in an ovenproof frying pan and place in a hot oven. The roasting process should take about 20 minutes depending on the thickness of the bone.You are looking for the marrow to be loose and giving, but not melted away, which it will do if left too long (traditionally the ends would be covered to prevent any seepage, but I like the colouring and crispness at the end). Meanwhile lightly chop your parsley, just enough to discipline it, mix it with the shallots and capers, and at the last moment, dress. Here is a dish that should not be completely seasoned before leaving the kitchen rendering a last-minute seasoning unnecessary by the actual eater; this, especially in the case of coarse sea salt, gives texture and uplift at the moment of eating. My approach is to scrape the marrow from the bone onto the toast and season with coarse sea salt. Then a pinch of parsley salad on top of this and eat.

12 x 7-8 cm pieces of middle veal marrowbone A healthy bunch of flat parsley, picked from its stems 2 shallots, peeled and very thinly sliced 1 modest handful of capers (extrafine if possible)

dressIng: Juice of one lemon extra-virgin olive oil A pinch of sea salt and pepper A good supply of toast coarse sea salt

Photographer: Patricia Niven

barlistings

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131 Upper Street Islington N1 1QP ☎ 020 7354 9535 THE FELLOW

24 York Way London N1 9AA ☎ 020 7837 3001 THE LONDESBOROUGH

THE COACH & HORSES Situated just off Church Street in Stoke Newington, The Coach & Horses is a traditional London pub which offers a wide selection of real ales as well as an array of wines and spirits. With friendly staff always on hand to welcome you in from the bitter winter cold, the relaxing atmosphere of this pub makes it an ideal place to visit during the festive period. If you are feeling hungry then there is a delicious Thai food menu and doorstop sandwiches on offer everyday. The pub is also known as one of the best places in Stoke Newington to watch live sports in a comfortable setting that makes anyone feel at home. Live music every Thursday night comes from the Bonfire Band. Featuring a Grand piano, double-bass, guitar and harmonica, their eclectic sound transforms The Coach & Horses into a lively music venue.

ADDRESS: The Coach & Horses 178 Stoke Newington High Street, Stoke Newington, London, N16 7JL 020 7254 6697 www.thecoachandhorses.com

OPENING TIMES: Mon- Thurs – 11am – Midnight Fri & Sat – 11am - 1am Sun – 11am – midnight

43 Exmouth Market Clerkenwell EC1R 4QL ☎ 020 7837 8077

BIG CHILL HOUSE

ELK IN THE WOODS

257-259 Pentonville Road London N1 ☎ 020 7427 2540

36, Barbauld Rd, N16 0SS ☎ 020 72545865

LOUNGELOVER

ALBERT & PEARL

1 Whitby Street Shoreditch E1 6JU ☎ 020 7012 1234

181 Upper St Islington N1 1RQ ☎ 020 7354 9993

VINOTECA

THE WINCHESTER

7 St John St EC1 ☎ 020 7253 8786

2 Essex Road, N1 8LN ☎ 020 7704 8789

GREEN & RED

LEXINGTON

51 Bethnal Green Road Shoreditch E1 6LA ☎ 020 7749 9670

96 Pentonville Rd Islington N1 9HS ☎ 020 7837 5371

COTTONS

SHAKESPEARE

70 Exmouth Market Farringdon EC1R 4QP ☎ 020 7833 333

57 Allen Road Stoke Newington N16 8RY ☎ 020 7254 4190

WENLOCK ARMS

ANAM BAR

26 Wenlock Road ShoreditchN1 7TA ☎ 020 7608 3406

3 Chapel Market, Islington, N1 9EZ ☎ 020 7278 1001

HAWKSMOOR

AULD SHILLELAGH

157 Commercial Street City E1 6BJ ☎ 020 7247 7392

105 Church Street Stoke Newington N16 0UD ☎ 020 7249 5951

BAR MUSIC HALL

THE LORD CLYDE

134 Curtain Road, Shoreditch EC2A 3AR ☎ 020 7729 7216

340-342 Essex Road, Islington, London N1 3PB ☎ 020 7288 9850

N16 Oishiii Xmas Ad 2009.pdf 1 18/11/2009 17:59:20

A Happy Sushi Christmas! 2 course Xmas Menu £16.95pp 3 course Xmas Menu £19.95pp 2 course Vegetarian Menu £16.95pp

CMY

Oishiii wishes to all it’s customers a very Happy Christmas for 2009. In this festive season we offer you a delicious mixture of the finest contemporary and authentic Japanese cuisine, all prepared using quality and fresh ingredients. Our Sushi Happy Hour is available througout the Christmas period between 5pm to 7pm seven days a week. So if you like fresh healthly scrumptious food why not visit us. We are now open for Group and Party bookings. Oishiii Japanese Eatery, 67 Stoke Newington Church Street, London N16 0AR. Tel: 020 7254 3488 www.oishiii.co.uk Opening times: Monday - Friday 5pm - 11pm Saturday & Sunday 12pm - 3pm & 5pm - 11pm

Japanese Eatery

restaurantlistings

featured restaurants

Whitechapel Gallery

the liGht bar and restaurant

the hat & Feathers

77-82 Whitechapel High Street, London, E1 7QX 020 7522 7896 www.whitechapelgallery.org/dine

233 Shoreditch High Street, E1 6PJ 020 7247 8989 www.thelighte1.com

1st Floor, 2 Clerkenwell Road EC1M 5PQ 020 7490 2371 www.hatandfeathers.com

Signature Dish ‘Textures of…’ – a single seasonal vegetable made into several unique mini creations under a British and Mediterranean influence, all on one plate.

Signature Dish Hand dived scallops, Jerusalem artichoke purée, crisp Pancetta, pea velouté

Signature Dish Oven roasted pork tenderloin, smoked pomme purée, creamed, savoy cabbage, caramelised comice pear and apple

Set menu

Recommended Wine

Lunch: 2 courses £15, 3 courses £20 set lunch menu

Opening times Tues to Sun 12.00 to 14:30 and Tues to Sat 17:30 to 23:00 Offers Free glass of champagne on arrival quoting “City & Angel” when booking Average price per head £25 for lunch and £35 for dinner

Set Menu

Set Menu Three courses £24.95

From £12 for 2 courses

Recommended Wine Marlborough Hills Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand 2007 £26.50

House wine £11.50, Taittinger champagne £35

Opening Times Noon - midnight Mon -Thurs, Noon - 02.00 Thurs, Fri, 18.30 - 02.00 Sat, noon - 23.00 Sunday Offers Taste London cards 50% off à la carte food Average price per head £36

Opening Times Private dining only Monday – Saturday 12.00 – 15.00, 18.00 – 21.00 Offers Three courses and glass of champagne £29.95 Average price per head £24.95

Our menu is British with a Mediterranean influence!

AlmeidA French restAurAnt & Wine BAr 30 Almeida Street N1 1AD ☎ 020 7354 4777

GAllipoli BAzAAr turkish & morrocAn restAurAnt 107 Upper Street N1 1QN ☎ 020 7226 5333

project A Gainsborough Studios West 1 Poole Street N1 5EA ☎ 020 7033 7880

BroWns 9 Islington Green, Islington N1 2XH ☎ 0871 971 7661

FiG & olive 151 Upper Street N1 1RA ☎ 020 7354 2605

sAki 4 West Smithfield EC1A 9JX ☎ 020 7489 7033

French

British

Turkish

European

Thai

Japanese

cAmino 3 Varnishers Yard, Regents Quarter, King’s Cross N1 9FD ☎ 020 7841 7331

le mercury 140a Upper Street N1 1QY ☎ 0871 332 7745

cluB GArcon 57 West Smithfield EC1A 9DS ☎ 020 7796 0600

mAGhreB restAurAnt 189 Upper Street London N1 1RQ ☎ 020 7226 2305

smiths oF smithField 67-77 Charterhouse Street EC1M 6HJ ☎ 020 7251 7950

dollAr Grills And mArtinis 2 Exmouth Market Farringdon EC1R 4PX ☎ 020 7278 0077

mercAdo BAr & cAntinA 26-30 Church Street Stoke Newington N16 0LU ☎ 020 7923 0555

st. john BAr & restAurAnt smithField 26 St John Street EC1M 4AY ☎ 020 7251 4090

FiG restAurAnt 169 Hemingford Road Islington N1 1DA ☎ 020 7609 3009

morGAn m restAurAnt 489 Liverpool Road N7 8NS ☎ 020 7609 3560

the peAsAnt 240 St John Street EC1V 4PH ☎ 020 7336 7726

FiFteen london 13-15 Westland Place N1 7LP ☎ 020 7251 3909

oishiii 67 Stoke Newington Church Street N16 0AR ☎ 020 7254 3488

Spanish

French

American

British/ Scandanavian

Italian

French

Moroccan and Mediterranean

Mexican

French

Japenese

sABor restAurAnt ltd 108 Essex Road N1 8LX ☎ 020 7226 5551

Pan American

Modern European

British

zilouFs 270 Upper Street N1 2UQ ☎ 020 7226 1118

Gastro Pub

Pan-asian

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FRUITBEER Duvel Moortgat UK, 134 Curtain Road, Shoreditch, London, EC2A 3AR - 02077297216

food&drink

RESTAURANT REVIEW

A DELICIOUS ALTERNATIVE

Carrie Mitchell finds a healthy alternative to Christmas carbs

don’t know about all of you but since the cold dark nights have drawn in and the closer Christmas gets, the more carbs I feel compelled to consume. But it all came to a head last Thursday, after eating shepherd’s pie for the third time in one week, I finally reached my limit – it was time to shock my palate back into life. I needed something different, something fresh and flavourful, something I couldn’t wolf down on a spoon in one gulp. Ah yes, I had the answer – chopsticks. And I knew just where to go. When Oishii (meaning ‘delicious’) opened in Stoke

Newington back in April, it seemed that the first Japanese restaurant on the ever-popular Church Street would have its work cut out competing with so many well-loved bars and restaurants on its doorstep. But owner Atique Choudhury was confident - and not without reason. The founder and patron of successful N16 establishments Yum Yum and Mercado, Atique had 25 years of experience under his belt. Arriving on that blustery Thursday night, we were shown past the sushi bar into a cosy restaurant at the rear. The informal and unpretentious surroundings create an intimate laid-back atmosphere, and with just a handful of other diners in evidence, it felt like we’d been let in on a special little secret. Our friendly waitress sorted us out with a bottle of sweet plum wine and a bowl of wasabi peas, before the manager appeared to help us decipher the menu. With vague suggestions of what we might like, we handed over responsibility for choosing our dishes to him. Minutes later, our appetisers appeared. And despite the initial chopstick fumbling, we somehow managed to devour the tasty little pork dumplings (‘gyoza’) and skewers of chicken yakitori in a matter of seconds. While we were still chasing the last dumpling around a pool of soy sauce, a string of beautifully presented sushi dishes began to arrive. First came, a row of perfectly formed nigiri sushi – oval rice balls topped with a range of fresh fish including salmon, seabass, prawn, mackerel, eel and yellowtail. Then a platter of tuna sashimi arrived – delicate slices of raw fish that tasted silky and delicious. And finally, the manager’s favourite – Dragon Eel Avocado Uri Maki – filled with smoked eel and topped with avocado, teryiaki sauce and Japanese mayonnaise. Heading back out into the cold night, my palate was doing a little jig of joy. No more carb-fests for me, I’m sticking with sushi – with any luck I might lose a few pounds in time for the office Christmas party. I may even head back to Oishii for said celebration – the private karaoke room has its own open plan sushi kitchen so you can watch the chefs at work while you belt out ‘Last Christmas’. 67 Stoke Newington Church Street Stoke Newington N16 0AR 020 7254 3488, www.oishiiirestaurant.co.uk

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interiors

InTeRIORs

news

Jenny White takes a look at this month’s must haves for the home…

winter warmer Create a warm and festive feel to your home with these stunning nightlights by Wendy Jung. Dot around your home and watch as the candle light flickers through the tiny porcelain holes, dancing on the surrounding walls. It is the ideal winter warmer to create the perfect Christmas atmosphere. £35, www.radiancelighting.co.uk

Decorate in muLticoLours Inject a bit of colour to your Christmas this year to create a family friendly festive look. This bauble wreath not only offers colour but will add sparkle and shiny metallic to an otherwise simple front door. £12.99, www.sainsburys.co.uk

BowLeD over Stylishly made from recycled aluminium, this scoop bowl is just the thing to serve nibbles to your guest during the party season. And why not opt for it in seasonal red to get everyone in the festive spirit. £9-£16, www.hihosilver.co.uk

Three of the best…Christmas

Trees

Let’s make a toast! This glass range is the most delightfully decadent way to welcome in the New Year. The Lolita range is beautifully hand painted and has several different designs to suit every individual. Our favourite is accented with red hearts and jewelled stones in the hope to add a little passion to 2010.

wire tree

rattan cone tree

08444 99 1111

0800 636 262

HanDmaDe BircH cHristmas tree

www.habitat.co.uk

www.sainsburys.co.uk

www.nordicdesignforum.co.uk

£16 each, www.johnlewis.com

U R B A NI NT ER I OR.C O.UK

020 7739 4644

27- 33 B ET HNA L G RE E N ROA D L O N D O N E 1 6 L A

LUXURIOUS B AT H ROOMS | K ITCHEN S | IN TE RIORS

Urban_0001_CanWharA4June_F2.indd 1

14/5/09 16:26:51

interiors

DESIGNER

LIFE

Want to makeover your house this New Year but don’t have the time to craft your dream home? Interior Designer, Cat Hoad explains how she can help LOCAL RESIDENT, CAT HOAD STARTED UP HER OWN INTERIOR DESIGN BUSINESS OVER TWO YEARS AGO AND SINCE THEN HER BUSINESS, ABSOLUTE PROJECT MANAGEMENT HAS QUICKLY BUILT UP A BREADTH OF EXPERIENCE. PREDOMINANTLY WORKING ON THE RENOVATION/ REFURBISHMENT OF PERIOD HOUSES AND FLATS IN CENTRAL AND NORTH LONDON, CAT WORKS WITH HER ASSISTANT, ANDI FROM HER ISLINGTON HOME.

BUSINESS Absolute Project Management facilitates the efficient execution and delivery of property renovation and refurbishment projects. Our role is to minimise the time and effort our clients, as homeowners, spend on managing work carried out on their properties. We provide a professional service covering initial planning of the project, to sourcing products and problem-solving. Absolute Project Management has been established for two years. After extensively renovating my own house I was really fascinated by the construction and design process. I’d learnt for myself that overseeing that sort of work, if you have a day job is incredibly timeconsuming and can be stressful. There wasn’t really a service I could find that provided a professional approach to outsourcing the whole process – from planning to execution to completion. My background working in the City means that I am used to working with clients with very high expectations

on complicated projects, so these skills were easy to transfer to this field. My design background is a lifelong interest in aesthetics, clothes and interiors. I am selftaught although I have recently taken a course in History of Architecture. Before that, I was a solicitor in a large City law firm, specialising in banking and finance law. My interior style is, personally, rooted in minimalism with glamorous, luxurious splashes. However, I am used to adapting to clients’ personal tastes and styles.

interiors

“

After extensively renovAting my own house i wAs reAlly fAscinAted by the construction And design process

”

InspIratIon My work is inspired by places that I visit. From hotels, galleries and parks, to spotting beautiful buildings, I am always on the look out for inspiration. I source my materials from local suppliers if possible. However, I have a wide network of sources all across Europe. My interior peeve is too much beige, simply because I think it is boring! My interior tip is pale backgrounds and lots of colour and texture in furnishings. This will create a feeling of space and allows the furnishings to stand out individually What I love about being an interior designer is helping people transform their homes and creating places that they love and are excited by. My future plans are to expand the current business but to stay in the same location for now as it’s a great base which enables me to work with clients across Central and North London.

HoME I couldn’t live without chocolate. The last book I read was “Day” by A L Kennedy. My favourite artists are mostly 19th and 20th Century artists. Contemporary artists such as Gary Hume and Boo Ritson, as well as early 20th Century British work by the Scottish colourist group. My signature drink is a Bramble. My favourite place to hang out in is Islington because it is so friendly, as well as being cool and interesting. I love going to places such as Ottolenghi, OQO as well a shopping in Cop Copine. When I’m not working I am looking after my children or catching up with friends for drinks and dinner. My favourite room in my home is my lounge because I love the colours. Also it is so peaceful compared to the buzz of Islington just down the road. n 020 7359 3835, www.absoluteprojectmanagement.com

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gadgets

GADGETS JAMIE CARTER presents this month’s hottest gadgets

Light up your Life

Where once LCD TVs had a single light source that made movies look a tad unrealistic, now they have thousands. Stuffed to the gunnels with tiny LED lights that can better reproduce colour and, most importantly, turn off completely to create true black, LG’s latest 42-47-inch tellies are Full HD and can even play music and video straight from a USB stick. LG SL9000 Series LED TVs £1,600-£2,000 www.lge.co.uk

KaraoKe King

If you’ve tried Sing Star and want to go for the real thing, how about a recording studio on your desk? Designed to sit between your keyboard and monitor, Lexicon’s elegant I-ONIX is a professional 24-bit digital recording studio ideal for recording a microphone and a guitar or keyboard. Even better, route your PC or Mac’s audio into an I-ONIX and out into your headphones and the sound quality is boosted dramatically. Lexicon I-ONIX Desktop Recording Series from £215 www.lexiconpro.com

Micro Machines

touchy feeLy

BLue sKy thinKing

Olympus Pen EP-1 digital camera From £700 www.olympusco.uk

Revo Heritage multi-format digital radio £229.95 www.revo.co.uk

Sky Player for Xbox360 From £15/month www.sky.com

The era of cheap compact digital cameras has come to the end with the arrival of the first 'Micro Four Thirds' models. A small camera with D-SLR talents it is Olympus’ first digital camera not to use a mirror or prism inside – and offer interchangeable lenses. It shoots in 12.3 megapixels, takes pictures in widescreen and can film video in HD.

Looking like an old wireless, the latest radio from Revo is indeed wireless; as well as FAM and DAB radio stations, WiFi access connects it to internet radio and a 30-day trial of last. fm is included too so you can build playlists straight from the web. If that doesn't sound very retro, then neither does its iPod dock or OLED screen, both hidden from view.

The Xbox360 is a games console for geeks, right? Not anymore; as well as using WiFi to bring your PC or Mac’s music, photos and video to your TV, Microsoft's machine just got a whole lot more useful thanks to a deal with Sky TV. Subscribers to Xbox LIVE can now download Sky Player, which with a subscription, pipes 24 of Sky’s live channels directly through the Xbox. .

POWER

TO THE PEOPLE Not that long ago a power output of more than 160 bhp put you behind the wheel of a Porsche. These days you can expect those levels of power from a shopping trolley, says Matthew Carter

motoring

emember the Porsche 944? It was launched in 1982 and with its purposeful stance – enhanced by outrageously flared wheel arches – and lusty 2.5-litre engine brought Porsche performance to a wider audience… something the weedy 924 had failed to do. Those who couldn’t afford (or couldn’t handle) the unforgiving 911, jumped at the 944. It had looks, handling and street credibility plus provided entry into the exclusive Porsche owners’ club What’s it got to do with a test of a humble hatchback from Spain? Simply that, at launch, the Porsche had a 165 bhp engine under the bonnet, while the new SEAT Ibiza Cupra packs a 180 bhp punch. From a 1.4-litre engine. Not so humble, then. It goes to show how far we’ve come in 25 years or so. The SEAT Ibiza is the Volkswagenowned company’s answer to cars like the Renault Clio and Ford Fiesta. It’s a stylish hatchback that, in less potent forms, is ideal for the run to the supermarket. But that all changes as soon as the Cupra badge is attached to the threedoor version. It’s that engine that’s at the heart of the Ibiza Cupra (Spanish for cup and a nod to the company’s successful motor racing exploits). Also used in the Golf and Scirocco, the TSI engine develops its prodigious power output thanks to the use of

supercharging and turbocharging. It’s a clever combination that provides a constant punch throughout the rev range. Up until about 2,400 rpm, the mechanical supercharger does the job alone. Then it is joined by the turbo, the pair working in harmony until 3,500 rpm when the turbo starts performing solo. At this point any turbo lag, that traditional ‘pause-two-three’ between jamming down the throttle and a conventional turbo engine picking up the revs, is banished. The result is a 0-60 mph time of around seven seconds, with a potential top speed of 140 mph. And it does that without producing too much in the way of emissions – just 148 g/km of CO2 – or drinking too much fuel: the official combined figure is 44.1 mpg. Hugely flexible, the engine is a real joy. There’s ample power on demand throughout the rev range and when dropped into the lightweight shell of the Cupra makes the little SEAT feel seriously quick. The experience is enhanced by the standard fitment of VW’s two pedal manual/automatic DSG dual clutch gearbox. If you’re stuck in traffic, you can leave the ‘box to its own devices when it delivers smoothly slurred gearshifts. But the open road is the cue to stick the gearlever in ‘S’ mode and start using the steering wheelmounted paddles to shift gears yourself. The combination of super quick gear changes and that lively engine means that cross country progress will bring a smile to your face… especially when the handling is added into the equation. As befits a hot hatch, SEAT has tied down the suspension of the Cupra

so that body roll is negligible while a clever piece of electronic trickery – SEAT calls it the XDF diff – stops all that power from confusing the front wheels when you boot the throttle. And the ride is remarkably good, too: supple and absorbing and complemented by the body hugging high back front seats. Only the slightly woolly steering lets the side down. It’s oversensitive at town speeds and while it does weight up as you go quicker, it’s never as precise as it should be. The Cupra is well- equipped, however, with climate control, 17inch alloys, DSG transmission and the ESP stability control system all included in the £15,995 price tag. If you want extras such as leather, Bluetooth and racing brakes (desirable if you spend as much time at Brands Hatch as you do in the Limehouse Link) that’ll be extra. Of course, if you want to spend even more there’s always a version called the Cupra Bocanegra (Spanish for black nose). Inspired by a concept car shown at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show, the Bocanegra is identical to the ordinary Cupra in virtually every way, bar a black snout, dark alloy wheels and black lettering on the bootlid. It’s an extra £700 and I can’t see the point myself. The standard Cupra does the job just as well… but if you really want to stand out, go for the bright yellow or burnt orange paint jobs. n IN BRIEF CaR: SEAT Ibiza Cupra PRICE: £15,995 ENgINE: 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol, turbocharged and supercharged PowER: 180ps DRIvE: Front-wheel drive

The best Italian in town.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 550-2 Valentino Balboni, now available at Lamborghini Sevenoaks and Lamborghini Reading. Lamborghini Sevenoaks

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Bennet Road

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Tel 01732 430 039

Tel 0118 336 0116

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culture

think will work, even though people around you think it’s a stupid idea.” The initial hesitation was largely down to the fact that Matthew made the bold decision to cast a man in the coveted role of Odette known as “the Swan.” The original ballet is a standard romantisized femalemale love. The Heroine, the swan princess Odette, is portrayed as powerless, but lovely in accordance with conventional gender roles and her hero is portrayed as a hunter who alone has the power to save her. Casting men in the role of swans made his birds menacing male gymnasts’, not wispy ballerinas, while at the same time putting love between men centre stage. “At the beginning I was thinking there’s no point in me

“

ComIng baCk to SadlerS WellS thIS deCember feelS lIke ComIng home, aS the pIeCe Started out here. they’ve got great oWnerShIp of It aS Well; the World premIere WaS there

ultImate

bourne Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake is back at Sadler’s Wells this Christmas and after 14 years is still as popular as ever. He explains why it originally ruffled a few feathers and how it was a turning point in his career

t seems Christmas just wouldn’t be Christmas without a Matthew Bourne production taking to the stage at Sadlers Wells. The last couple of years have seen the Nutcracker entertain crowds but this year it is the eagerly anticipated return of Swan Lake. Having premiered at Sadler’s Wells in 1995, the Director and Choreographer’s triumphant modern re-interpretation of Swan Lake turned tradition on its head. This November saw the stage show celebrate its 14th birthday and astonishingly, Matthew’s Swan Lake has performed more times in 14 years than The Royal Ballet has in its entire 70 year history. “I love that. I love that idea because it surprises people and it’s also one of the things which isn’t appreciated about our company (New Adventures),” says Matthew with obvious pride. “Initially, we may not have even got it off the ground. We had a lot of trouble raising money for it. Many people didn’t think it would work and didn’t want to put money into it. But I suppose a part of me did think it would work, you have to have a bullish feeling for something you

”

doing Swan Lake as a contemporary choreographer unless I have an idea that is different enough from the classical version to justify doing it. It was so frowned upon that we had suggested the idea of male swans, before people had even seen it. It was very much thought of as a crazy idea,” explains Matthew, who has collected over thirty international theatre awards for the show, including three Tony Awards for the Broadway production. “The way it was perceived at the time was actually unheard of. The day after it opened I was on the news, not an arts programme, actually sitting at the news desk of CNN, being interviewed about it.” “The papers printed pictures of Adam Cooper as a swan next to pictures of Margaret Fonteyn as a swan. I thought if they would pick up on anything they would pick up on the Royal scandal (the swan Prince is often viewed as Bourne’s reference to the British royal

culture In 2002 Matthew launched his latest company, New Adventures which is currently based at Sadler’s Wells, where Matthew is an Associate Artist. The longest running piece of ballet in London’s West End and on Broadway, Swan Lake, has enjoyed two successful tours in the UK and thrilled audiences in Los Angeles, Europe, Australia and Japan. However, despite the universal success Matthew has never forgotten where it all started. “Coming back to Sadler’s Wells this December feels like coming home, as the piece started out here. They’ve got great ownership of it as well; the world premiere was there,” explains Matthew, who took stylistic inspiration for the production from the Alfred Hitchcock film, The Birds. “This time around I have had more time to be in the studio to plan and do changes to the production. I’ve already done several big changes and plan to do more. I really feel that it’s a chance to develop the piece a bit. I never really leave them alone and I feel it is time to spruce it up a bit with some fresh ideas.” Although involvement in the film world is his future aspiration, for now Matthew’s childlike excitement about his forthcoming production is palpable. With every new tweak and alteration he makes to Swan Lake he is opening it up to a new audience, whether it is those who have already seen ‘the old version’ or a generation for who this is the first time round. Either way, it is Matthew’s signature lack of time for frills, froufrou and tradition that makes his work a must see for everyone during this Christmas and New Year. n

family, in particular, Prince Charles). However, it was very much the swans and the image of the swan that captured the attention of the media.” Despite ruffling a few feathers, the production, which was originally written by Tchaikovsky in the late 19th century, has brought ballet to the masses. Breathtaking and sexy, the witty production was designed to speak to a modern audience and it seems that not even Matthew could have foreseen that replacing ballerinas in tutus with bare-chested men in feathered trousers would Coming baCk to SadlerS have made such an impact. WellS thiS deCember feelS like “Swan Lake was something Coming home, aS the pieCe Started I approached very seriously out here. they’ve got great and I think I hit on oWnerShip of it aS Well; the something new. I started World premiere WaS there to enjoy moving audiences as well as making them laugh and entertaining them. For that reason, I think it is big turning point for me and my career.” Having trained to be a dancer at the comparatively late age of 22, Matthew studied Dance Theatre and Choreography at The Laban Centre. Dancing for 14 years, he created many roles in his work before taking his final curtain call in 1999, playing The Private Secretary in the Broadway production of Swan Lake. His first company, Adventures in Motion Pictures, became the UK’s most innovative and popular dance/theatre company creating an enormous new audience for dance with its groundbreaking work.

“

”

Swan Lake is on from December 10th – January 25th at Sadler’s Wells, Rosebery Avenue, EC1R 0844 412 4300, www.sadlerswells.com

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what'son

Our guide to this month’s top events

2 December – 10 January

10 December – 31 January

TheaTre

A ChristmAs CArol

sPlish sPlAsh!

revel in the joy of Christmas as a vibrant cast of multi-talented actors, musicians, children and puppets bring to life this musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ inspirational novel. Phil Willmott’s inventive adaptation begins in a Victorian back street inn where Dickens conjures up a world of ghosts, magic, hardship and hope for the crowd of local punters.

this wondrous adventure follows a little fish on a journey in the big wide world. travel though london all the way out to sea, meeting all sorts of characters along the way, from a miserable pigeon to the beautiful mermaids. splish splash! is especially designed for younger audiences with baby friendly performances on sundays.

King’s head Theatre, 115 Upper Street, Islington N1 1QN www.kingsheadtheatre.org

little angel Theatre 14 Dagmar Passage (off Cross Street) N1 2DN www.littleangeltheatre.com

2 December – 10 January

10 December – 3 January

TheaTre

DaNCe

the snoWmAn

PieD PiPer – A hiP-hoP DAnCe reVolution

now a major fixture in the festive calendar, the stage version of raymond Briggs’ much-loved book continues to delight children as it returns to the Peacock theatre. When a young boy’s snowman comes to life on Christmas eve, the two set off on a quest for adventure. Featuring howard Blake’s beautiful Walking in the Air, performed by a live orchestra, this is the perfect Christmas extravaganza.

this adrenalin fuelled hip-hop spectacular combines original street dance choreography with a bold urban soundtrack. inspired by robert Browning’s poem the Pied Piper of hamelin, this is an innovative, original and unmissable fusion of dance and narrative, taking an edgy look at morality.

rosebury avenue, eC1r 4TN www.sadlerswells.com

barbican Centre, Silk Street eC2Y 8DS www.barbican.org.uk

4 December

16 December & 25 January

ClUb

ComeDY

CoVer to CoVer ChristmAs PArty

lAurA solon: rABBit FACeD story souP

Cover guru’s Christian laing and sean rowley re-interpret songs through countless musical styles. everything from the filthiest electro covers of iggy Pop and Kiss to the camp pop covers of Freddie mercury and Abba will be rocking the dancefloor. the night also features a live set from Baby mozart and Kitty la roar.

solon’s first solo show won her the coveted Perrier Comedy Award in 2005. this, her second solo show, is a brilliantly written verbal comedy, set in a publishing company after their best-selling author has suddenly gone AWol. solon plays all the characters and manages to bring them all to vivid life.

The Queen of hoxton, 1 Curtain road, london eC2a 3JX www.thisiscovertocover.com/club

Pleasance Theatre, Carpenter mews, North road N7 9eF www.pleasance.co.uk/islington

10 December – 6 February

31 December

TheaTre

eveNTS

roPe

ArriBA lA CumBiA

the same evening ronald Kentley is strangled with a rope by two fellow undergraduates, the murderers attend a tea party with his friends and family. As the evening progresses, their morality is tested to the limit. Director roger michell brings life to Patrick hamilton’s dark classic as a brilliant snapshot of a jazz-age generation wallowing in privilege and depression.

Get ready for a eclectic mix of psychedelic, Peruvian, samba and ghettotastic beats with shenanigans throughout the night to make this a new year’s eve carnival party to remember. live bands eri okan, bloco outfit and los Chinces, london’s one and only psychedelic, tropical, Cumbria band make this an exhilarating new year’s eve fiesta.

almeida Theatre, almeida Street, london N1 1Ta www.almeida.co.uk

rich mix, 35-47 bethnal Green road e1 6la www.richmix.org.uk

events

New Season Nail Colours

12 January – 24 February Art & Exhibitions

with Bio Sculpture Gel

City Symphony

barbican Centre, silk street EC2Y 8Ds www.barbican.org.uk

Dis

cov of a er the n a diff dva er e tre nced n nce atm ai ent l – a coa tin nails g to your to str n a tur cond engthen a al n ition them d …

Fu & ncti fas on hio al na ble

nicola Wills is an abstract artist who produces work mainly in oils and pastels as well as a keen interest in batik and silk. this exhibition explores the visual interpretation of sound and she uses her own emotional responses to music as inspiration for the vivid colours and spontaneous line flow which are striking features of her work.

n es clea Appli fortably & com

Dries in under U stantly V lamp

Durable, flexible & chip-proof Soak no d s off wi natu amage t th ra l n o ails

13 – 17 January

s, ur s, lo er co m r 00 him lea r1 es C ve at & O lic ch or de ren lls – le f F ski ilab ew ava erirn n rses exp ans Lea il cou s and hnici Na ginner ail tec b e ed n enc

Art & Exhibitions London Art FAir Established in 1988, London Art Fair launches the art world year in the UK. presenting museum-quality modern British and Contemporary art, the Fair brings together the work of established artists and emerging talent. Whether you’re a serious collector, buying your first original work, or simply a lover of great art, London Art Fair is stylish, spectacular and uniquely welcoming. business Design Centre, 52 Upper street, islington, n1 0Qh www.businessdesigncentre.co.uk

18 January

For your closest salon and information on training courses www.biosculpture.co.uk • call 0845 331 2347

Winter RETAIL Ad A6.indd 1

7/26/09 3:46:27 PM

MUsiC onErEpUBLiC Grammy-nominated US rock-pop band onerepublic broke through in 2007 when ‘Apologize’ from their début album ‘dreaming out Loud’ went to no. 1 in 16 countries, going gold in 14 of them. After impressing fans at their two sold-out London shows last year, plus rocking the crowd at V festival, the band will be playing a one-off show at London Scala. scala, 275 Pentonville road n1 9nL www.scala-london.co.uk

23 January MUsiC

How singing, dance and drama create a manysided child

LEt FrEEdom rinG Stirring contemporary jazz with gospel, blues and Afro-Cuban music from mercury/moBo award-winning saxophonist denys Baptiste. Let Freedom ring is inspired by the spirit of dr martin Luther King’s momentous ‘i have A dream’ speech on its 40th anniversary, and has an explosive 11-piece international line-up including Abram Wilson and omar puente. rich Mix, 35-47 bethnal Green road E1 6LA www.richmix.org.uk

Here’s a way to spend weekends that’ll have

4-18 year olds buzzing. Enrol them in your local Stagecoach Theatre Arts school where they learn to act, sing and dance.

For a prospectus and to find out about your nearest Stagecoach call now on:

020 7460 1809 www.stagecoach.co.uk islington@stagecoach.co.uk

The skills they learn aren’t just for the Stage. Our students grow in confidence and self-esteem …..Skills for Life! There’s no audition – all they need is enthusiasm.

www.runwildmedia.com

CITY& ANGEL