KIMCHI TASTING EVENING AT LE CORDON BLEU LONDON & ASSOCIATION WITH MAISON MES AMIS

Super Food, Korean Kimchi – Reinvented as an Amazing British Dish

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In the post-pandemic world today, there is currently a global interest in super foods that boost the immune system such as fermented foods that help to nurture the gut.

best kimchi brand uk

On Tuesday 5th October, Le Cordon Bleu hosted the UK’s first Kimchi Cook-Off event in association with Mes Amis The French Cultural organisation.  The event saw 10 finalists battle it out to be crowned Kimchi Champion – judged by Culinary Arts Director at Le Cordon Bleu, Emil Minev.

best kimchi brand uk
Master Chef Emil Minev of Le Cordon Bleu London

Recently I was kindly invited to attend the exciting launch of the UK’s first Kimchi Cook-Off competition which took place at Le Cordon Bleu London this week. It was such an honor to go inside the World’s Most Famous Elite Culinary Arts School which has international locations all over the globe from London Paris to New York.

best kmichi brand uk

JONGGA is Korea’s No. 1 Kimchi producer

Did you know? Kimchi is Korea’s most iconic dish and I have to admit spicy food has always been top of my list as a culinary favourite ever since I can remember growing up.


Le Cordon Bleu in Partnership with Maison Mes Amis host Kimchi Cook-0ff Competition


best kimchi brand uk

For the Cook-Off Entrants created a recipe and submitted before the 25th September, ready for judging by non other than Le Cordon Bleu’s Culinary Arts Director and Master Chef, Emil Minev.

best kimchi brand uk

the main sponsor of the Kimchi Cook-off, JONGGA

best kimchi brand uk

Recipes with Kimchi were -re-created as amazing British Dishes by the amateur Chefs which was exciting to witness as I’m a huge fan of Oriental Culinary Dishes. Who isn’t a foodie at heart and sometimes I prefer to stay in and whip up my own culinary take out favourites in the kitchen at home.

Before the day concluded, The top 10 recipes were selected and lucky participants invited to the cook-off event to cook in person for the judges. If you watch Master Chef, then this will inspire you to have a go yourself and create your own recipes too. The winners were awarded £3,000.00, second place £2,000.00 and third place £1,000.00 with all participants being offered gifts sets worth £400.00.

I had a really pleasant evening and got to go inside one of the most iconic culinary schools in the World and when do you get an opportunity like this to experience culture through cuisine by aspiring Master Chefs. And the best part after the cook-off I got to meet the chefs, enjoy a cocktail and of course sample some Kimchi at Le Cordon Bleu’s restaurant CORD.

Are you familiar with Korean Cuisine and have you tried Kimchi before? JONGGA, the main sponsor of the Kimchi Cook-off, also donated scholarship funds and gifts to local volunteer organisations to help those from underprivileged backgrounds who are being hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic.

If you would like to find out more about Le Cordon Bleu London’s World-class culinary arts, wine, nutrition and management courses, with over 125 years of education experience please visit lcbl.eu

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best kimchi brand uk

Editorial Disclaimer: PR INVITE. I was kindly invited to attend the Press Launch by the Brand Rep and I am under no obligation to post about a brand whether or not I choose to do so. How I choose to work with brands on any collaboration whatsoever is always down to personal choice and preference if I feel it’s a good fit for my content and audience so I can always give my honest feedback.

THE SOUTHERN ALGARVE’S MOST STUNNING BEACH CLUB OPENS IN PORTIMAO

THE BEST BEACH CLUBS TO VISIT ON THE MEDITERRANEAN THIS SUMMER | WHERE TO GO FOR A SWIM AND TASTE SUMPTUOUS CULINARY DELIGHTS

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Things to do in Algarve

Portimao a beautiful scenic fishing town situated in the Southern Algarve region of Portugal is most famous for its local Arts & Crafts culture. It boasts the most pristine beaches, hotels, shopping, and cosmopolitan nightlife scene including an array of exquisite restaurants and bars.


The Best of Algarve’s Scenic Southern Coast

On the day I set off to Portugal I was very excited, despite the 6 am flight departure time from London Gatwick to Faro Airport I just could not wait to get there and enjoy the trip. My itinerary was well organised by the brand rep who handled the Beach Club’s PR so we knew it was going to be an enjoyable experience and find out more about what this exclusive destination had to offer international tourism in Portugal.

 

It boasts the most pristine beaches, hotels, shopping, and cosmopolitan nightlife scene including an array of exquisite restaurants and bars.

Things to do in Algarve

 

 

 

Things to do in Algarve

 

The Algarve’s impressive International Racetrack ensures an upscale and sophisticated city break similar to its Monaco counterpart bringing you the full Grand Prix Extravaganza experience. But, there’s so much more if you’re curious to find out and explore the wonders of the Algarve. Why not be amongst the first to join the jet set by putting Portimao on the map. It’s tipped to be the most Stylish destination of this summer competing with Ibiza, Mykonos and Montenegro.

Things to do in Algarve

 

Here are my suggestions for how to get there, things to do and where to go.

Portimao Airport is a regional private jet airport located in Faro. The option of traveling in style is also available where you can book your own private flight through a variety of Private Jet Operators to and from Portugal’s Southern Algarve. Alternatively, Easy Jet Fly’s to and from selected UK Airports frequently with competitive airfares into Faro Airport.

Things to do in Algarve

 

Things to do in Algarve

 

Things to do in Algarve

 

Southern Algarve’s  newest addition includes the Blanco Beach Club boasting a tranquil setting close to all the glamour catering to luxury party goers and the jet set alike.

Things to do in Algarve

 

The brainchild of investor Maximillian White, Blanco Beach Club is the latest entertainment and experience driven venue to hit the shores of Portimao. If you’re seeking a lavish Hedonistic destination it’s a haven in paradise where white sandy beaches sit next to the idyllic turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Furthermore, the sumptuous sunken beach beds to the 5 star Mediterranean fusion restaurant offers the culinary delights of fresh sea food and sushi. If you fancy partying the the night away at the open air nightclub its open till late.

 

Blanco Beach Club is playing host to some of the biggest music artist and DJ’s in the music industry including Tyga and French Montana.

 

Things to do in Algarve

 

The Food and Drinks Menu here is excellent from the presentation of it’s food platters of sushi selection of sashimi, nigiri, California roll,  yellow tail and sea food with favorites freshly prepared by a specialist Sushi chef from Lisbon ex Nobu. Not forgetting the hospitality here is exceptional from its customer service to it’s well presented staff and friendly atmosphere. Sip on sumptuous cocktails from the restaurant menu and relax to summer soundtrack of deep house for a lazy afternoon before the sun goes down.

 

Things to do in Algarve

I really enjoyed the live PA set by Tori Lanez one evening upon my visit when the whole of the Beach Club transforms into a full service nightclub hosting the best exclusive DJ sets and music performances from acclaimed international Artist.

Please take a moment to admire the exclusive Beach Club’s venue and facilities situated on the Praia de Rocha Beach in Portimao’s newest addition to the Southern Algarve. If you love the vibe in Ibiza this will certainly take you’re fancy then I highly recommend giving this destination a try to kick start your summer of fun in the sun.

 

Editorial Disclaimer: As always, all opinions are my own and I will never promote something I don’t personally support and believe in.  I was an invited as Media to the resort by the PR Brand Rep as a Sponsored Press Trip #AD. Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed or endorsed by any of these entities.

A STAY WITH ART HOTEL MUSEO IN TUSCANY | CULTURE & STYLE AWAITS YOU

OPERA ARTE RESTAURANT FINE DINNING & HOTEL REVIEW

So a few months back, Jenny and I were invited to spend a couple of nights at the elegant Art Hotel Museo in Tuscany and we of course jumped up the opportunity to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa on the way there. Situated in Prato province, this 4 star Tuscany hotel offers one of the best stays in the city, and has held a renowned reputation for Europe’s leading Textile Industries. We were offered one of their Classic Suites with views over The Contemporary Art Museum L. Pecci and access to their gym facilities to car hire service.

Tuscany Hotels

Let’s start with a little introduction about the hotel itself. Since it’s founding, Art Hotel Museo was born under the sign of Art both for it’s location in front of the Luigi Pecci the center of contemporary art, and has always held a very high standard or both service, and accommodation with plenty of guest facilities and food & beverage options including; close proximity to the history city allows visitors to enjoy art, design, fashion and shopping in numerous outlets.

“We offer all our guests comfortable and cosy rooms (106 rooms including 2 executive, 3 deluxe and 4 suites and our renovated Classic Plus and our Designer Rooms on 04th Floor) as well as functional spaces conceived and designed to offer complete satisfaction in a setting of total relaxation. Art Hotel Museo is not only the meeting point of reference in Prato but it is also an active and dynamic hotel in the area.”

From the Art Hotel Museo Website

Tuscany Hotels

I’ve got to say that this is one of the best hotel stay experiences we’ve had lately and the hospitality was outstanding. In fact second to none that we’d love to come back again soon. The rooms were very spacious including a separate walk in closet next door to the Bathroom with a modern contemporary feel inside the classic suite. Homely touches through out the whole hotel was so beautiful it was like an Art Gallery with a different theme on each floor. Me and Jen made good use of the Hotel Bar after a day of designer shopping Gigli Mall where we brought new outfits for Milan Fashion Week. The Hotel bar served all our Classic cocktail favourite’s from Aperol Spritz to Espresso Martini’s, fashion week here we come!

Tuscany Hotels

Fancy a sumptuous cocktail or fine glass of Tuscan wine after day of sightseeing and shopping, spot of lunch or formal dinner the hotel has something to cater to everyone with various food and drinks options at the in-house The Opera Arte Restaurant including room service in dinning menu looks delicious. You’ve got to try their ‘Traditional Italian Roman Pizza’ Pinsa Romana with it’s soft fluffy dough base mozzarella, tomato, basil my favorite here. But, don’t forget to try the fresh gelato ice cream served as a desert option is just divine the taste of mouthwatering fresh lemon after two courses.

Tuscany Hotels

Tuscany Hotels

Another delicacy you must try is the Authentic Spaghetti Bolognese made with fresh tomato sauce and wild boar mince instead of beef which we are so used to having back home so it was a real treat to try something new in Tuscany. It would be great to attempt this dish when I get back home as I’m always looking to improve my culinary skills in the kitchen and cooking is enjoyable too especially during the lock down period. I’ve taken the time to learn new skills and take up new hobbies like watching ‘YouTube’ cooking channels – looking forward to what cuisine I’ll attempt in the kitchen next.

We both really enjoyed our time here in Prato Tuscany and the staff management at Art Hotel Museo were so kind and accommodating to us it made such a real difference for our stay. This hotel is also perfect for business travelers equip with conference rooms as well as holiday makers looking for a relaxing stay on vacation.

The outdoor pool and spacious garden are ideal for a fun summer with pop up bar and the hotel is Pet friendly too.  For us, it was all about taking time to switch off from our busy itinerary of life in London before the start of Milan Fashion Week. We definitely made the most of it, so if you are after a short weekend break to take in some culture through cuisine, fine wine, dining and shopping then this would be the ideal hotel to check out what Prato has to offer.  I discovered that Prato is known as The Textile City throughout history portraying cultural significance of fashion to wine in Tuscany’s winery’s and vineyards is very intriguing for wine lovers alike.

 

Tuscany Hotels

Tuscany Hotels
Photography Jenny Pickets

 

 

Editorial Disclaimer: #AD A huge thank you to Art Hotel Museo for hosting us and for providing a wonderful, stay in Prato. As always, all opinions are my own and I will never promote something I don’t personally support and believe in, regardless of who foots the bill. Also I would like to Thank ryanair.com for sponsoring my return flights itinerary between Pisa, Milan and London during Camera Moda Milano Men’s Fashion Week and to both companies for making this trip possible.Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed or endorsed by any of these entities.

Some of the above links are affiliate links and I will earn a tiny percentage of the sale if you purchase through them at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting The Joey Journal!

For more information and booking enquiries on Flights to Pisa & Hotel Reservations including the Hotel Restaurant at Art Hotel Museo Prato Italy, please visit

 

ART HOTEL MUSEO

Viale della Republica 289

59100, Prato Italy

+39 0574/578888

www.arthotel-museo.it

info@arthotel-museo.it

+39 0574/5787

 

OPERA ARTE & RESTAURANT

www.opera-arte.restaurant

[email protected]

+39 0574/578888

 

RYANAIR AIRLINES

www.ryanair.com

 

Follow along and Connect on Social Media

 

Instagram @art_hotel_museo

 

Instagram @ryanair #ryanairstories

 

OSTERIA MAMMA ROSA MILANESE CLASSIC ITALIAN CUISINE

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The first thing which comes to mind when you think about living the Italian way of life is culture through cuisine and only the finest authentic food can be found at this Top Milanese Restaurant Osteria Mamma Rosa just off the trendy Corso Buenos Airies within walking distance of Porto Venezia.

In Italy an Osteria restaurant cuisine serves a selection of wine and food which is known especially for local specialities such as pasta dishes, grilled meat or fish where menu’s selections tend to be short. Throughout history some traditional Osteria establishment’s dates even far back as to the 14th and 15th Century. Upon my visit to Milan for Fashion Week in between the shows and events I managed to visit here a couple of times to dine with friends. This hidden gem in the heart of Milan’s City Centre has to be by far one of my favourite restaurant experiences so far for Italian cuisine and hope to return soon next time I visit again for fashion week.

My favourite signature dish here has to be the Sea Bass prepared the Liguria way served with potatoes’  as an alternative to the Grilled Seabass which is also delightfully sumptuous. On arrival prosecco is served before dinner as a gesture of good will and the atmosphere is very friendly and welcoming at this family run restaurant in the heart of Milan. Walk in’s are welcome during busy hours. Great food and fantastic atmosphere to enjoy culinary delights just like a local at this fine establishment in the center of Milan.

italian restaurant

Ligurian way Sea Bass Fillet with violet potatoes, olives, and “pinoli” pine nuts

 

 

Address: Piazza Cincinnato, 4, 20124 Milan MI, Italy

Tel +39 02 2952 2076

 

To find out more about Osteria Mamma Rosa please visit their website below or to enquire about reservations

 

 

Disclaimer: I went to visit Osteria Mamma Rosa through personal recommendations of friends staying in the city. All Opinions will be own

EAST MAMMA – THE BEST ITALIAN TRATTORIA IN PARIS

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During my visit to Paris during Fashion Week I’ve been here with friends and the food is really great and freshly prepared. East Mamma is a laid back Italian restaurant often referred to as a Neapolitan Style Trattoria serving the most authentic Italian Food which you’ll find situated at Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine in the Bastille district of Paris. I would definitely say that ‘Pizza in this place is just divine, but more on that in just a moment…..

If you’re a fan of authentic Italian food you will find exceptional food and friendly service at East Mamma Restaurant which is very popular on the Parisian Scene with the locals too. East Mamma is part of the Big Mamma Restaurant group and serves the most exquisite dishes from Fresh Pasta, Pizza, Salads to sumptuous Deserts.

During my dinner I decided to try their Pizza Napoletana Red Hot Burrata which comes with a spicy tomatoes sauce, hot sausage and topped with plenty of Mozzarella cheese for texture.  If you like pasta I would highly recommend the Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina served with fresh tomatoes, basil and mozzarella. All portions of food served is a very large size suitable for 2 people to share which is very filling.

The great news is that this fantastic Italian restaurant cuisine is closer to home than you think with the Italian Style eating establishment from the Big Mamma Group has opened Gloria in Shoreditch so expect a queues outside during peak hours  as rumour has it they don’t take reservations.

 

Address: 133 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine, 75011 Paris, France

Tel +33 1 43 41 32 15

 

To find out more about East Mamma Paris please visit their website below;

 

www.bigmammagroup.com

 

Disclaimer: I visited this Restaurant with friends while in Paris through personal recommendation. All Opinions will be my own