Since its inauguration in 1972 by JK Kapur in Bombay, Copper Chimney has been an ode to secret recipes and cooking techniques from all across Northern India.

With its gourmet Indian dishes and ineffable menu, Copper Chimney has enchanted millions of global citizens, with restaurants in London, India, Kuwait, as well as the UAE, transporting millions of guests over the past four decades, to the rich melange that is India. Consequently, I am blessed and honored to be able to experience one of India’s finest, award-winning restaurants, that falls nothing short of a tribute to one of the world’s most culturally affluent peoples. 

As we enter, the decor immediately transports you to India and immerses you into the traditional, yet the modern world of Copper Chimney. A stunning hanging canopy of copper bells with abundant greenery decorated the center of the restaurant and makes its way all around the interior of the room. Above us were fans made out of large green leaves, accompanied by panache caramel banquettes and an exquisite wooden parquet floor for that touch of graceful elegance. For those with an appreciation of avant-garde, the chairs were made out of ropes, fascinating the observer.  The atmosphere was relaxed yet with a noticeable buzz to it, making Copper Chimney idyllic for all occasions, whether it be a hen party or a fun weekend outing. 

As I absorbed the beautiful ambiance, I began the evening with two of  Copper Chimney’s signature cocktails; the Achari Whiskey, which consisted of sour mash whiskey, spicy ginger ale, and a splash of sweet mango. I then followed it up with the Berry Bramble signature cocktail, which was a concussion of gin, spices, and a berry burst of pure delight.

For our starters, we opted for Green Peas and Aloo Samosas, which is known as India’s all-time favorite snack, and I must say, for good reason, for it was an absolute marvel of flavors. In addition to that, we accompanied our starter with the Delhi-Style Fried Chicken- a pop of buzzing hot spices that leaves you wanting more. For our final starter dish, we chose the crispy mango Amritsari Shrimp, a proudful representation of Punjabi Indian cuisine, a pungent mix of sweet and spicy.

As we moved on to our mains, we had Chargrilled Chicken Tikka which was marinated in yogurt and sprinkled with special Amritsari spices adding a vibrant yet mild spice. We continued our meal with the mouth-watering Butter Chicken, like pure butter, providing a gentle taste that calms the senses of the species of the previous dishes. For our final main, we ordered the robust and hot Prawn Biryani, that was served with saffron rice and crispy fried onions.

To complement our meals, we had the side, finger-licking, Garlic Naan alongside a grand selection of Indian bread. I chose the Multigrain Chura Paratha and combined it with the Pomegranate Mint Raita, which was served with Greek yogurt, covered with pomegranates. The coriander and mint garnish provided, were pure perfection, enhancing the taste of the bread. 

Lastly, for dessert, I had the Gajar Pistachio Crumble, which is a carrot pudding with a unique Indian twist, garnished with cardamom, sweetened milk, and layered with chopped pistachio and praline crumble. This dish was one of my personal favorites and one that I highly recommend, as it was a delicious and unique take of the stereotypical carrot pudding.

When one reflects on our experience at Copper Chimney, we were promised ‘good Indian food, made unforgettable’ and did exactly that. My personal highlights were the Chargrilled Chicken Tikka, the selection of Naan Breads and I cannot praise enough the need for one to try the Gajar Pistachio Crumble along with one of the signature cocktails.

The entire restaurant not only serves excellent Indian food with great flavors but has created the most radiant and relaxed atmosphere for a big party or booking specific tables for a fantastic hen party that you and your friends won’t forget.

Having created beautiful hair for thousands of clients since their launch, they have been on a quest to extend the Duck & Dry experience to your home. Their natural range of fuss-free haircare and styling essentials help you achieve a professional blow dry when we are not at hand.

After an overwhelming successful with celebrities and Londoners alike in Chelsea, Duck & Dry, the brand behind the finest blow dries and updos, Oxford Street was the second opening now they have 5 stores: Chelsea (flagship), Oxford Circus, Soho, Spitalfields and most recently Mayfair.

The brand, which is already known for it’s beautiful space, buzz and high energy, is set to turn things up a gear by expanding to a larger space with 20 styling pods, a group styling table, a prosecco bar and even a fitted with a DJ station and bespoke sound system for weekend nights.

The interior design still draws upon Duck & Dry’s signature colour palette of pastels, with accents of natural materials and greenery but with an added West End flare. Egg shaped styling pods, an Instagram-able dream swing, plant wall installations and neon signs make for “the” destination check in for your social pages. The unique space is also ideal for hosting events from product to private parties, birthdays to hen-dos.

It offers a fully licensed prosecco bar, beautiful styling area, dedicated group area and plenty of space to socialize. Make up, hair & nails available on request for 18 guests and more.

Duck & Dry’s ethos remains to keep things simple, as afterall “Fine Feathers make Fine Birds”. The venue will continue to offer a menu of 8 signature blow dries and 8 updos, served by stylists with meticulous attention to detail, using Duck & Dry’s natural product line. True to form, guests will leave feeling pampered, after enjoying the feel-good vibes that the venue brings.

Founded by the #girlboss Yulia Rorstrom, who left a career in finance to create the modern styling destination, she is the vision and energy behind Duck & Dry. Passionate about beauty and entrepreneurship with a desire to create an exciting new brand with the goal of professionally styled hair to become part of an everyday beauty regime.

For more information, and to book your blow dry, visit Duck & Dry’s website.

]]> https://5starweddingdirectory.com/blog/duck-and-dry-blow-dry-bar/feed/ 0 https://5starweddingdirectory.com/blog/review-solent-hotel-spa/ https://5starweddingdirectory.com/blog/review-solent-hotel-spa/#respond Wed, 20 Mar 2019 20:00:53 +0000 https://5starweddingdirectory.com/blog/?p=10190319 We recently had the pleasure of visiting Solent Hotel and Spa in Fareham. Located in Hampshire between Portsmouth and Southampton, we think it would be a fabulous retreat for a fun hen weekend with the girls. It’s close to the shopping centre, sea and countryside, and has really good transport links to get you around.

The hotel is fresh and contemporary with a nautical theme; staff are dressed in fun nautical uniforms and there’s a coastal vibe that runs throughout. It’s a great place to enjoy spending time with friends, relaxing with your other half or a special day out with your mum.

Spa days

The spa has been refurbished and offers a tranquil retreat, perfect for a spot of indulgent pampering for you and your tribe. It has eight treatment rooms, a relaxation lounge, manicure and pedicure stations, gym and pool, so there’s plenty to keep you well relaxed! The Solent Hotel offers a range of packages including Hen Party and Honeymoon options as well as Spa Escape overnight stays, which we really like the look of for a quick break. The couples treatment room would be perfect for a mini-moon or just for a moment away from all the wedding planning! It even has its own private hot tub terrace.

A spa day package begins with refreshments in the relaxation area before indulging in a spa treatment or relaxing in the pool, sauna or steam room. After a two-course light lunch, you can continue your day of rejuvenating relaxation.

If you fancy staying the night, get ready for 24 hours of pampering! Dinner, accommodation and breakfast are included in your escape. You can even extend your stay to 48 hours with their two-night retreat.

They also offer a Sunday Night Serenity break, perfect if you need a moment to prepare for the week ahead, or if you’ve been tramping round the countryside all weekend! You can arrive after midday and use the spa facilities as well as having a taster treatment and afternoon tea. Overnight accommodation and breakfast are included, and you can continue your relaxation the next morning.

The beautiful spa has not only won a World Luxury Spa Award 2018 as part of the House of Daniel Thwaites group but has an exclusive new partnership with French skincare brand Caudalie.

Its definitely worth a look if you fancy a spa break or celebration by the sea.

For more information about the Spa see their website, or call 01483 880027.

Solent Hotel & Spa
Rookery Avenue,
Whiteley,
Fareham,
Hampshire,
PO15 7AJ

We were gifted a stay at the Solent Hotel & Spa in return for this review.

K West is achingly hip, with striking modern art in the lobby, which is also a bar and hosts live music once a week. Portraits of music legends adorn the walls, from Bob Marley to U2, but rather than feeling superior, it feels friendly and relaxed – the perfect vibe.

We were here to sample the Glam Rock Afternoon tea – such a fun idea and a nod to the musical roots of Shepherds Bush. But first we were shown to our suite – a lovely bright, fresh and modern room with neutral décor and fun pops of colour – colourful lounge cushions, a cute pink desk chair and some striking urban art that took over one of the walls. Perfect for a hen party, it was a really good size, spacious enough to relax in, and would also make a great alternative, retro modern space to get ready for a local wedding.

Of course, being so close to Westfield, we had to make a little pilgrimage to the shopping mecca of London, so we left the hotel for a spot of retail therapy. It really is so close, it would be rude not to visit!

K Spa

K West also has a spa, which we enjoyed a little trip to. I love a central London spa – a little escape from the bustle of the city, and this one did not disappoint. Twinkling lights sparkled down from the ceiling above a hydrotherapy pool, and we also enjoyed a sauna and steam. K Spa has a unique snow paradise – the first in London – which mimics the Finnish tradition of ‘hot-cold therapy’. A room is filled with natural snow and chilled to -15°C. You can alternate between the steam room and snow room – it definitely was a new experience!

After a lovely night’s sleep, we enjoyed a breakfast among hipster media types in the restaurant – lovely avocado and poached eggs – before another trip to Westfield for a little more retail therapy before our Glam Rock Afternoon Tea.

Glam Rock Afternoon Tea

Like most aspects of the hotel, this is pure fun. With each course served on an old record player and the menu on a record itself, it’s a true musical experience. We enjoyed sandwiches, scones and sweet little cakes along with cocktails and tea in the glossiest coloured metallic teacups. It was such a lovely experience and we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. A little shopping, spa trip and a Glam Rock Afternoon Tea at K West would make a truly joyful hen party – perfect for music-lovers!

K West Hotel & Spa
Richmond Way
London W14 0AX
Tel: +44(0)20 8008 6600

We had such fun in leafy Belgravia at The Berkeley, sampling their special Prêt-à-Portea afternoon tea in a masterclass to celebrate the royal wedding. And with biscuits and cakes inspired by the most fashionable trends, their new summer menu is something a bit special.

Biscuits, cakes and a few special new styles are all set for the annual couture makeover inspired by some of the world’s top fashion designers, such as Dolce & Gabbana, Miu Miu, and Tom Ford, as The Berkeley in Knightsbridge launches its new Spring/Summer 2018 Prêt-à-Portea collection. A favourite for fashionistas, Prêt-à-Portea adds an innovative twist to the traditional English afternoon tea and celebrates the latest catwalk trends each season. 

With a myriad of vibrant colours combined with graphic designs and florescent florals taking this season by storm, this Prêt-à-Portea collection takes inspiration from an array of distinguished fashion designers and their creative genius. First to step onto the cakewalk to kick start this season’s shade of summer is Tom Ford’s celebrated hot pink chocolate stiletto biscuit. Making a stylish splash is Miu Miu’s sunny swimsuit of dazzling yellow upon a vanilla biscuit base. Following this is red carpet ready Ralph & Russo’s pale pink ruffle dress transformed into a delicate ice cream cone – a frozen first for Prêt-à-Portea. 

Making a debut on the stand is the beautiful butterfly handbag cake inspired by London’s very own Aruna Seth. Playing our cards right, other Prêt-à-Portea delectables include Dolce & Gabbana’s ‘Queen of Hearts’ celebrated design set upon layered almond sponge cake and fashion flavour of the month Richard Quinn’s iridescent floral display is placed on an upside down black forest gateaux – fit for a Queen. 

Pastry Chef, Mourad Khiat says: “We are very excited to be launching our new SS18 Prêt-à-Portea collection. Bright colours, patterns and stylish swimsuits are always a hit but as chic as our creations look, they must taste delicious and we would never compromise taste for design.” 

For Prêt-à-Portea aficionados, The Berkeley’s exclusive recipe book – Prêt-à-Portea, High-Fashion Bakes & Biscuits – is available at the Collins Room where Head Pastry Chef Mourad Khiat reveals some of his top secret recipes for his most beloved fashion inspired designs from over the past decade. And for those who really want to learn the tricks of the trade, Prêt-à-Portea Masterclasses are available for two hours of tuition in the pastry kitchen, learning how to recreate a few fashion favourites from past collections. Each masterclass is for up to four guests, with each receiving a ‘Shoe Chef’ embroidered apron followed by experiencing the SS18 Prêt-à-Portea in the Collins Room and a copy of the recipe book to take home. We loved our masterclass – it would be a perfect hen party for an afternoon of fun!

Prêt-à-Portea is served at The Berkeley from 1:30-5:30pm every day priced at £52 per person (£62 including a glass of Laurent Perrier champagne or £70 per person including a glass of couture champagne). Masterclasses are priced at £225 per person and are available every Wednesday and first Sunday of the month from 2-4pm. To make a reservation for Prêt-à-Portea call 020 7107 8866 or visit the hotel website. A bespoke collection of fine-bone china by Wedgewood has been created for The Berkeley especially for Prêt-à-Portea. The china is available to purchase and for more information please call The Berkeley 0207 235 6000. 

We were recently invited to sample the most exquisite meal at Michelin-starred restaurant Galvin at Windows.

Located on the 28th floor of London Hilton Chef Patron Chris Galvin and his team create seasonal menus are inspired by modern French haute cuisine and are absolutely amazing.

The service was incredible, the food heavenly and it really was one of the best places we’ve eaten.

The seasonal menu includes dishes such as Scottish salmon, roasted fillet of Skrei cod, glazed Suffolk pork belly and Banana soufflé & peanut butter ice cream.

We enjoyed the amazing Cured Loch Fyne salmon, brown crab mousseline & celeriac remoulade to start, perfectly put together and a gorgeous starter, followed by Pan-fried fillet of halibut, pomme purée, seafood blanquette & parsley. To finish we enjoyed a delightful Valrhona chocolate ‘cigar’, tonka, coffee, Bourbon sponge & hazelnut cream which was simply to die for.

It was amazing to have a sommelier on hand as well to perfectly match the dishes to the wines.

There are also cocktails on offer and an expert team to create them.

We had a fabulous evening! Galvin at Windows would be ideal for a bridal party dinner or luxury hen day. It was such a treat to experience!

Galvin at Windows

22 Park Lane, London, United Kingdom W1K 1BE

+44 (0)20 7208 4021 reservations@galvinatwindows.com