A growing preference for dining outside: 2025 OpenTable data reveals that 60% of diners in the UK choose outdoor seating when conditions are favourable. Online interest continues to climb: Google searches for “beer gardens” increased by 172% between 2022 and 2024, indicating widespread enthusiasm for alfresco venues. Restaurants evolve to meet year-round demand: Many establishments are enhancing outdoor areas with heaters, shelter, lighting, and adaptable layouts to extend outdoor dining beyond summer. Outdoor dining is becoming a staple of British dining culture rather than a seasonal trend. Recent data from OpenTable in 2025 shows that approximately 60% of UK diners…
Author: Sam Allcock
Sam Allcock
Sam Allcock is a seasoned journalist and editor with a deep passion for the culinary arts. With over two decades of experience in the world of food writing, Sam has become a distinguished voice in the industry, renowned for his insightful reviews, engaging storytelling, and unwavering commitment to highlighting the finest in gastronomy. As the Editor-in-Chief of Feast Magazine, he leads a dynamic team dedicated to exploring the diverse and ever-evolving culinary landscape. Sam's journey into food journalism began with a childhood fascination for cooking, inspired by his grandmother's kitchen where he first learned the magic of blending flavors and crafting delicious meals. This early love for food led him to pursue a degree in Journalism from the University of Leeds, where he honed his skills in writing and developed a keen eye for detail. Throughout his career, Sam has traveled extensively, tasting and documenting cuisines from around the world. His articles are known for their rich, vivid descriptions and his ability to convey the cultural contexts of the dishes he explores. Whether it's a hidden gem in a bustling city or a traditional dish in a remote village, Sam's work brings the reader right to the heart of the culinary experience. Under Sam's leadership, Feast Magazine has flourished, earning accolades for its in-depth features, exclusive interviews with top chefs, and comprehensive guides to the best dining spots. His editorial vision emphasizes sustainability, innovation, and authenticity in the culinary world, ensuring that the magazine not only entertains but also educates and inspires its readers. Beyond his professional achievements, Sam is an advocate for food education and sustainable practices. He frequently participates in panels, workshops, and community events, sharing his expertise and fostering a greater appreciation for the art of cooking and the importance of ethical food consumption. In his free time, Sam enjoys experimenting with new recipes, exploring local farmers' markets, and hosting dinner parties for friends and family. His personal blog, where he shares his culinary adventures and recipes, has a loyal following, further cementing his status as a trusted authority in the world of food. Sam Allcock's dedication to his craft and his genuine love for all things culinary make him a pivotal figure in food journalism, continuously inspiring and delighting food enthusiasts around the globe.
A refined dining destination inspired by the coastal regions of France is set to open its doors in London next month. This October marks the highly anticipated opening of Mazarine in the prestigious setting of Hanover Square. Created by restaurateurs Khaled Dandachi and Fred Srouchi, known for their successful launch of Sparrow Italia in Mayfair in 2022, Mazarine introduces a sophisticated new chapter in contemporary French gastronomy to the capital. Situated directly on Hanover Square among one of London’s most coveted addresses, Mazarine is shaped around the essence of coastal French cuisine: refined, atmospheric and inherently social. The restaurant will…
This December, The White Horses in Rottingdean welcomes guests to enjoy a serene seaside Christmas with refined yet relaxed coastal charm. Located just 20 minutes from Brighton, this boutique hotel — the inaugural property of The Everly Hotels Collection — combines contemporary design with warm, thoughtful hospitality, offering an inviting winter retreat on the East Sussex shoreline. Throughout the festive period, visitors can take part in a curated selection of seasonal experiences. Whether enjoying comforting winter menus or unwinding with an overnight coastal escape, The White Horses provides an ideal setting to reconnect, celebrate, and savour the spirit of the…
Ocean Spray®, one of the world’s leading producers of cranberry juices, juice drinks, and dried cranberries, has announced the launch of two exciting new products designed to bring warmth, spice, and a festive twist to the colder months. The first newcomer to the range is the limited-edition Cranberry Winter Spice mulled drink – a flavourful blend of cranberry and apple juice infused with hints of cinnamon and clove. Perfect served chilled or gently warmed, with or without a splash of your favourite spirit, this seasonal drink offers a bold, aromatic experience. It forms part of Ocean Spray’s ongoing ambition to…
The award-winning London restaurant and charitable organisation is set to bring its uplifting blend of vegetarian and vegan cuisine, Bhakti-inspired wellness, and mantra music to Birmingham this November. This November, OMNOM — the renowned vegetarian and vegan restaurant and wellness charity from Islington, London — will open its second venue in Birmingham, a city celebrated for its cultural energy, creativity, and community spirit. At twice the size of its Islington flagship, OMNOM Birmingham will unite everything that has made the brand so distinctive: vibrant Indian-inspired dishes, soulful mantra music evenings, community wellbeing events, and a deep dedication to giving back.…
A contemporary Korean BBQ destination opening this November This November, Covent Garden will welcome a new addition to its culinary scene as SOOM opens its doors at 99 St Martin’s Lane. The new restaurant marks the latest venture from the team behind 3KOBROS, the popular Korean restaurant in Canary Wharf. Korean cuisine continues to capture Londoners’ imaginations, celebrated for its bold flavours, social dining rituals, and artful balance of tradition and innovation. SOOM channels this spirit through a refined Korean BBQ experience that blends conviviality with calm sophistication. At its essence, SOOM is a celebration of the Korean BBQ tradition…
Aston Villa Football Club has unveiled a landmark partnership with Michelin-starred chef and lifelong Villa supporter Brad Carter, who will bring his culinary expertise to the club’s exclusive 150 Club at Villa Park, creating an extraordinary dining experience for fans and guests alike. The collaboration unites two Birmingham icons — Aston Villa and Brad Carter — whose creative flair and dedication to excellence have helped define the city’s cultural and culinary identity. Known for his ingredient-led, innovative cooking, Brad has played a pivotal role in putting Birmingham’s gastronomy on the global stage. A devoted Aston Villa fan since childhood, Brad’s…
A leading fine-dining restaurant in Cheltenham has received national recognition after being honoured with the prestigious AA Notable Wine List Award — just months after its Sommelier was named among the UK’s top 100. Prithvi, the acclaimed Indian-inspired restaurant situated on Bath Road, was presented with the accolade during a ceremony at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House in London. From over 1,000 entrants, only 288 establishments were selected to receive the award, placing Prithvi among the country’s most distinguished dining venues. The AA Notable Wine List Award highlights restaurants that demonstrate excellence in their wine selections, ensuring a thoughtful and…
Jason’s Sourdough, the UK’s leading sourdough brand, has expanded its presence in Tesco with the introduction of a new line of premium toasties, now available in 355 stores nationwide. Building on the success of its Hot Food-To-Go toasties launched earlier this year across foodservice and travel outlets, Jason’s Sourdough has reimagined the range for at-home enjoyment. The move responds to rising consumer demand for convenient, high-quality, ready-to-eat options that deliver both taste and authenticity. The new toasties can be found in Tesco’s Snacking and Savouries section within the chilled aisle. Two indulgent flavours—Ham Hock & West Country Mature Cheddar and…
The Trafalgar, located at 224–226 King’s Road, London SW3, has officially opened to guests, marking a significant moment for Chelsea’s hospitality scene. After an extensive £2.4 million refurbishment, the venue has been reimagined as a quintessential British pub that blends traditional charm with modern comfort, offering an inviting mix of great food, quality drinks, and live entertainment. Operated by Three Cheers Pub Co. — the independent group founded by lifelong friends Tom Peake, Mark Reynolds, and Nick Fox — The Trafalgar represents a proud addition to the area’s heritage. Remarkably, it is the first new public house to open on…