As February ebbs to a close, we’re more than ready for spring’s arrival. Conscious to take stock of all matter of things (ourselves, our homes, and so on…) as the seasons change, this week we’re focusing on simple pleasures that nourish the body and mind.
Scroll on for the rundown in full.
LIGHT THIS Ginori La Dama Orange Renaissance
Our search for the best scented candle continues. Making our homes that little bit more inviting, luxury candles are one habit we simply won’t quit. And so to our latest indulgence: the Ginori La Dama Orange Renaissance – a woody, citrus scented candle with top notes of Bergamot and blackcurrant. It’s positively scrumptious – as is the white porcelain cylindrical sculpture, which houses the wax. Depicting a feminine face, this is a graceful scent by all accounts.
EAT THIS SUMI
SUMI is our new neighbourhood favourite in London’s Notting Hill. This casual yet elegant sushi and Japanese restaurant is the little sister (and much more affordable alternative) to sushi master Endo Kazutoshi’s eponymous Michelin-starred White City restaurant, Endo at the Rotunda. ‘Named after Endo’s mother, SUMI is led by Head Chef Yasuda Akinori, of Zuma fame, who has worked with Endo for a number of years.’ If available, ask for a counter table to be in full view of the intricate work being carried out in the kitchen. While you peruse the menu in full, tuck into the tuna tataki (its deliciousness is beyond description) and a zingy seaweed salad. SUMI’s nigiri selection is available aburi style (seared over a naked flame) – the otoro with truffle is in a league of its own – whilst favourites from their temaki offering included the vegetarian-friendly yasai and the shiso-flower topped hotate. For those less taken by sushi, the salmon teriyaki is a great option – do try the skin, its done on the robata. For something sweet, finish with their delicate matcha mille crepe cake topped with creme fraiche, or for sharper ending, try the Sumi Gimlet – a medley of Portobello gin, yellow chartreuse, lime cordial, lime juice, and fresh cucumber.
TRY THIS Pilo No.2, Steamery
Is your favourite cashmere roll-neck jumper beginning to pill? Are those cherished wool trousers displaying pestering little bobbles of fluff? If you’ve slaved away with a handheld pilling comb in the past, trying to remove every last sign of lint before deciding you’ll just keep your arms crossed and perhaps no one will notice those last few bobbles, we A) know your pain, and B) have a far better solution. Steamery’s Pilo 2. A mini handheld razor, consider this nifty little device your new sartorial saviour. Super easy to use, simply place your garment on a flat surface and gently swipe the nozzle over the fabric. Available in sand and charcoal, the Pilo 2 is portable, compact, and rechargeable (no batteries, just a USB charger) – perfect for globetrotters.
BOOK THIS Love Yourself package, AIRE Ancient Baths London
AIRE Ancient Baths have added a new, super-indulgent ritual to their roster of treatments; ‘Love Yourself’. The experience, designed for one, includes the ‘Thermal Bath Experience’ and a 45-minute massage with sandalwood oil and warm amethyst crystals, which are both known for de-stressing and reducing tension. The package also includes Cava and truffles or fresh organic juice to enjoy. We think it’s high time you invested in your wellbeing and took five (well, 45) to relax and be present with yourself.
ATTEND THIS Carousel x 'The Female Chef'
Rather than leaving it to the last minute to forge plans for International Women’s Day, this year, we’re thinking ahead. Spanning five nights with five leading female chefs, in collaboration with food writer and author of The Female Chef, Clare Finney, Carousel in Fitzrovia will be hosting a quintet of suppers between 8-12 March. As Finney puts it, these women are “rewriting the rules and redefining what it means to be a successful chef”. Take a glance through the line-up and choose your preferred chef – we’ve earmarked Angela Hartnett OBE of Michelin starred Murano and Cafe Murano restaurants. Note: a portion of each ticket sold will be going to a women’s charity chosen by some of the chefs to mark IWD.
BOOK THIS Artah 5-Day Cleanse
Following on from last year’s hugely successfully Virtual Recharge, Artah, headed up by wellness powerhouse Rhian Stephenson, is hosting an immersive virtual retreat between 9th-13th March. The schedule will consist of clean eating, movement, and self-care to renew, recharge, and shed negative energy from the comfort of your own home. Expect yoga, barre and HIIT, as well as holistic workshops to inspire and motivate. During the programme you will follow a delicious and nourishing cleansing menu to detoxify the body, feel lighter, and boost your metabolism. Be prepared to feel completely refreshed in five days, as well as longer, leaner, and bursting with energy for spring.
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