Food & Drink

The sun-soaked Istrian coast is set to become Europe’s newest gourmet getaway — with Poreč as its beating culinary heart — as Valamar unveils a network of 11 exceptional restaurants across the city, united by its new Dine Around programme.

Whether you’re cooking for one, feeding the family, or meal-prepping for the rest of the week, these recipes are all about flavour, minimal effort, and maximum satisfaction. Here are some simple ideas to inspire your Wednesday evenings.

Available from 11.30 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday, the menu offers a selection of mains for £10 and a second course (starter or dessert) for £3.50. There’s steak and frites, burgers, chicken, sandwiches, and salads to choose from, all at this incredibly great-value price.

The revival is genuine: historic cafés are pouring proudly, specialist bars are curating deep lists, and hands-on classes let you blend your own

When it comes to meal kits, HelloFresh and Gousto dominate the UK market. But they’re not alone. Health-conscious brand Mindful Chef, flexible recipe-kit provider SimplyCook, and organic veg box pioneer Riverford all offer alternatives catering to different needs and budgets.

Inspired by Ina Garten’s beloved mustard chicken, this dish has had a clever 2025 makeover. Instead of cooking rice on the side, jasmine rice is added directly to the pan, soaking up the creamy mustard sauce as it simmers

The Royal Horseguards Hotel is inviting guests to do this summer with its new perfectly packed picnic baskets – curated hampers brimming with seasonal treats, ideal for exploring London’s most iconic green spaces in style.

Ciao London! Bombolone Doughnuts in Piccadilly is London’s premium Italian doughnut cafe, serving handcrafted brioche-style Italian doughnuts in the heart of the city.

Paris’s much-loved Il Bambini Club is arriving in London and making its UK debut at The Hoxton, Shoreditch this September. Il Bambini Club: a lively new spot for all-day Italian dining with a dose of dolce vita charm.

This elegant, bustling area encapsulates everything good about a high street with its selection of upmarket shops and independent stores, cafes, bars, and restaurants. It also has the beauty and peace of Kensington Gardens at one end and the innovative Design Museum at the other.