North Meets South as Bristol Food Legends Join Forces

Bristol's thriving independent food and drink scene has gained another exciting collaboration, as Psychopomp Microdistillery and the much-loved Sonny Stores have teamed up to create a unique destination where outstanding spirits meet exceptional seasonal food.

The partnership brings together two of the city's best-known independent names, linking North Bristol with Southville in a celebration of local creativity, craftsmanship and flavour. 

Visitors to Psychopomp's recently reopened bar on St Michael's Hill can now enjoy a specially curated menu from Sonny Stores alongside the distillery's award-winning small-batch spirits and inventive cocktails.

It's a collaboration that feels like a natural fit. Sonny Stores has earned an enviable reputation for simple, ingredient-led cooking that lets quality produce shine, while Psychopomp has become one of Britain's most innovative craft distilleries thanks to its bold and experimental approach to creating spirits.

The new menu takes inspiration from the Venetian tradition of cicchetti – small plates packed with flavour and designed to accompany drinks. Diners can expect an ever-changing selection that celebrates the seasons while perfectly complementing the distillery's handcrafted spirits.

Tempting dishes include Pork Collar Cold Cuts, indulgent Fried Gorgonzola Sandwiches, Hot Smoked Pork Ribs with Jalapeños, and seafood favourites including Clams and Scallops with Pancetta. Larger sharing plates will also make appearances, ensuring there's plenty to tempt visitors whether they're popping in for a cocktail or settling in for a leisurely evening.

Psychopomp founder Liam Hirt, a former cardiologist who also established Circumstance Distillery, believes the partnership adds an exciting new dimension to the venue.

He says the team has always believed great spirits deserve equally great food, and that Sonny Stores' seasonal, unfussy cooking perfectly matches their philosophy of flavour and craftsmanship.

Meanwhile, Sonny Stores founder and head chef Pegs Quinn says the menu has been designed around bold flavours that work beautifully with what's in the glass, creating an experience inspired by the relaxed food-and-drink culture of Venetian wine bars.

The collaboration also highlights everything that makes Bristol's independent hospitality scene so special. Rather than competing, two respected local businesses have chosen to work together, creating something neither could offer alone while giving visitors another reason to explore one of the UK's most exciting food cities.

Whether you're a fan of expertly distilled spirits, seasonal cooking or simply discovering brilliant independent venues, this new partnership offers a delicious excuse to head to St Michael's Hill. It's a true taste of Bristol under one roof, showcasing local talent, local produce and the city's wonderfully collaborative food and drink culture.

Psychopomp X Sonny Stores 

145 St Michaels Hill; Bristol; England; BS2 8DJ.

Opening hours: 

Wednesday-Friday 12PM-3PM

Thursday–Friday 5 PM–10 PM, Saturday 6 PM–10 PM

New Pineapple and Passion Fruit Conserve from Bonne Maman

Introducing the first ever tropical flavour from Bonne Maman, new Pineapple and Passion Fruit Conserve is a vibrant and exotic addition to the extensive range. 

Bursting with quality fruit, the sun-ripened sweetness of the pineapple is perfectly balanced by the subtle, sharper accent of passion fruit. 

Whether enjoyed spread generously on warm toast, as an ingredient to add an exotic twist to your favourite bakes or stirred through yoghurt, new Bonne Maman Pineapple and Passion Fruit Conserve brings a delicious and evocative burst of tropical summer sunshine to the table.

Bursting with juicy fruit pieces and vibrant exotic flavours, Pineapple and Passion Fruit Conserve is perfect for summer makes and bakes. Two delicious, simple new recipes Flower Puff Pastries and Tropical Pineapple, Passionfruit & Coconut Traybake are gorgeous for many occasions. 

he pretty, flakey jam flower puffs are the perfect addition to afternoon tea, while the sunshine inspired, soft buttery traybake makes a delicious, 'cut and share' cake or easy pudding.

This exciting new flavour joins Bonne Maman's Rares and Wilds Conserve range – all made with no artificial colours or flavourings - including Strawberry & Wild Strawberry Conserve, Black Cherry Conserve, Wild Blueberry Conserve and Mirabelle Plum Conserve.

Presented in the iconic Bonne Maman 370g jar, new Pineapple and Passion Fruit Conserve is now available nationwide from Tesco and Morrisons stores and online on Ocado at rrp £3.99.

Trevethan Gin Brings a Taste of Modern Heritage to Cocktails in the City

If you're looking for a great excuse to enjoy a summer cocktail in London, Cocktails in the City is shaping up to be one of the season's must-visit events. 

Returning to the beautiful surroundings of Bedford Square Gardens from 6–8 August, the festival promises an impressive mix of world-class bars, live music, street food, tastings and, of course, some truly memorable drinks.

Among this year's highlights is Trevethan Original 1929 Dry Gin, a spirit with a fascinating story that proves good ideas never really go out of fashion.

The tale begins almost a century ago when Norman Trevethan created his own "bathtub" gin while working as a chauffeur on Cornwall's stunning Port Eliot Estate during the glamorous golden age of cocktails. 

More than 80 years later, the forgotten recipe was rediscovered by chemist-turned-master distiller John Hall, who lovingly recreated it as an award-winning London Dry Gin.

Now that historic recipe is enjoying a fresh chapter as Trevethan partners with The Gin Bar at Holborn Dining Room, Rosewood London, creating two exclusive cocktails especially for this year's festival.

It's all part of a growing trend known as modern heritage – where classic spirits and traditional craftsmanship meet contemporary creativity behind the bar. Today's cocktail lovers increasingly want more than just a well-made drink. They enjoy discovering the stories behind the bottles, the places they come from and the people who keep those traditions alive while giving them a fresh twist.

Trevethan's Brand Manager, Carly Fordy, told That's Food and Drink that the aim is to show how a handcrafted London Dry Gin can be transformed by talented bartenders into something exciting for today's drinkers while still respecting its heritage.

Festival visitors will have the chance to sample two limited-edition serves.

The Eden Highball is a light and refreshing summer drink combining Trevethan Original 1929 Dry Gin with elderflower, tropical tea and fresh lime. Finished with sparkling bubbles and an elderflower jelly garnish, it sounds like the perfect companion for a warm August afternoon.

Meanwhile, Zest & Stone offers something a little more adventurous, blending the gin with yuzu sake, peach, lemon and fig leaf soda before being finished with a fragrant peach spray. It promises plenty of bright, seasonal flavours with a distinctive botanical character.

Cocktails in the City has built a reputation for bringing together some of London's finest bars alongside international cocktail talent, giving visitors the chance to sample exclusive creations they might otherwise never discover.

Whether you're a dedicated gin enthusiast or simply enjoy discovering new drinks in a relaxed summer setting, Trevethan's modern take on a classic Cornish recipe looks set to be one of the festival's standout attractions. Sometimes the best way to celebrate history is simply to pour it over ice, add a little creativity, and raise a glass.

Cocktails in the City

Dates: 6–8 August

Venue: Bedford Square Gardens, London WC1B 3HH

Nearest Underground: Tottenham Court Road

https://cocktailsinthecity.com/tickets

Introducing Bonne Maman's new Seedless Raspberry Conserve

Introducing new Bonne Maman Seedless Raspberry. Gently cooked to bring out all the natural fruit flavours, this classic Bonne Maman Conserve is full of pure, juicy, ripe raspberry flavour, but made to a perfectly smooth consistency so 100% no seeds.

A delicious and versatile new addition to the family kitchen for those who like their raspberry flavour just so! 

Seedless Raspberry is absolutely gorgeous spread on warm sourdough and crumpets at the breakfast table, enjoyed during an afternoon tea, such as scooped onto these freshly baked Buttermilk Scones with fresh cream, or used as a vibrant ingredient in a variety of recipes, like a delicious Raspberry Ripple Ice Cream or indulgent Raspberry & White Chocolate Cheesecake, adding a smooth, seedless fruit twist to everything from classic cakes and bakes, glossy glazes, children's ice lollies and tempting mock and cocktails.

Presented in the iconic Bonne Maman 370g jar, the new Seedless Raspberry Conserve is now available nationwide at Waitrose, Morrisons and ASDA stores at rrp £3.99.

Why Local Food Culture Makes Travel Dining Benefits More Valuable

Discover why travel dining benefits work best when they reflect local food culture, dietary needs and authentic regional cuisine, according to Dragonpass.

Food is one of the highlights of travelling, whether you're exploring a new city, waiting for a connecting flight or simply grabbing a quick bite before boarding. 

Yet while many travel loyalty programmes promote airport dining as a major perk, the best ones do far more than simply offer discounts – they understand what travellers actually want to eat.

According to global travel and lifestyle benefits platform Dragonpass, which serves more than 45 million members worldwide, dining benefits should reflect the culture, customs and dietary needs of the destination rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.

It's an idea that makes perfect sense. A meal that suits one traveller perfectly could be completely unsuitable for another if religious requirements, dietary preferences or local eating habits haven't been considered.

Dragonpass has highlighted five destinations that demonstrate why local food culture matters.

In Dubai, where halal food is central to everyday life, travellers benefit from clear information and partnerships with restaurants that make suitable choices obvious. At busy airports, this can save valuable time and remove uncertainty.

Meanwhile, Delhi showcases the importance of meaningful vegetarian dining. India has one of the world's richest vegetarian food cultures, and offering just one token meat-free option is unlikely to satisfy either local residents or international visitors. A wider variety of thoughtfully prepared vegetarian dishes creates a much better experience.

Timing is equally important in Madrid, where lunch and dinner are traditionally served much later than in many other European destinations. Dining offers restricted to earlier meal times may leave travellers unable to make use of their benefits. Flexibility can make all the difference.

In Los Angeles, many diners actively seek meals that fit their lifestyle, whether that's plant-based, gluten-conscious, high-protein or lower in sugar. Clear nutritional information and a broader choice of healthier options help travellers find meals that match their preferences.

Finally, Singapore reminds us that food is an essential part of the travel experience itself. The city's vibrant mix of Chinese, Malay, Indian and Peranakan cuisines offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy authentic local flavours before they even leave the airport. 

Loyalty programmes that include local restaurants alongside international brands can help travellers end their trip with one last memorable taste of their destination.

Ultimately, good food is about more than satisfying hunger. Whether someone is looking for halal cuisine, vegetarian dishes, healthier options or authentic local flavours, the most valuable travel benefits are those that remove uncertainty and celebrate the unique food culture of each destination.

For travellers, that thoughtful approach can turn an ordinary airport meal into another enjoyable part of the journey.

Dragonpass.com

Majestic Success for Double Dutch

Premium mixer brand Double Dutch has expanded its range of 150ml cans and introduced a bold new packaging design as demand for the format continues to grow across the on-trade sector, with Majestic being one of the first consumer retailers to list the full range. 

The selected SKUs will also be available via Majestic's specialist on-trade division, Majestic Commercial,  providing products to more than 4,200 independent pubs, fine-dining restaurants, bars, hotels and event venues across the UK. 

As well as the cans, Majestic has listed Tonic Water and Skinny Tonic Water in the glass bottle format. Now available in more than 200 Majestic stores, the range includes:

Double Dutch Soda Water 6x150ml Can

Double Dutch Pink Grapefruit Soda 6x150ml Can

Double Dutch Cucumber & Watermelon Soda 6x150ml Can

Double Dutch Ginger Ale 6x150ml Can

Double Dutch Ginger Beer 6x150ml Can

Double Dutch Indian Tonic Water 6x150ml Can

Double Dutch Skinny Tonic Water 6x150ml Can

Double Dutch Sun & Sea Tonic Water 6x150ml Can

Double Dutch Elderflower Tonic Water 6x150ml Can

Double Dutch Skinny Tonic 8x500ml Bottle

Double Dutch Tonic Water 8x500ml Bottle

The can range features a bold design refresh: a natural extension of Double Dutch's wider brand refresh, aligning with the elevated look and feel introduced in its 200ml glass bottles last year. The updated aesthetic is bold, vibrant and flavour-led, with a more refined, premium finish that Double Dutch says better reflects the quality of the liquid inside. 

Designed to invite discovery, the artwork features intricate details and subtle storytelling elements. Hidden within the designs are visual cues that reflect each flavour's origin and composition, from botanicals and citrus fruits to distillation references. 

A recurring elephant motif nods to the Indian origins of tonic water, adding a layer of heritage to the modern visual identity. 

Double Dutch refreshed their glass bottle design in August 2025, with the 'swirl' design contributing to a 15% increase in carbonation of the liquid inside.

Raissa de Haas, co-founder of Double Dutch, said: "The expansion of our can range is being driven by increasing demand across both the on-trade and retail sectors. Our nationwide availability through Majestic Wine represents an important milestone for the brand and reflects growing demand for delicious, flavour-led premium mixers in convenient, single-serve formats.”

James Cox, Buyer for Majestic says: “Our customers are always looking for quality products with a story they can connect to, and Double Dutch ticks both boxes. First and foremost they are excellent flavour-first drinks that can be enjoyed with or without alcohol, but they are also a brilliant female-owned brand, whose B-Corp status and carbon-negative credentials make them exactly the kind of forward-thinking partner we want on our shelves.” 

https://doubledutchdrinks.com

https://www.majestic.co.uk

Shandy Is Back! Shandy Shack Gives a Classic British Favourite a Fresh New Look

Shandy is enjoying something of a renaissance, and Shandy Shack is determined to lead the revival. 

The independent drinks brand has unveiled a bold new look as it enters the next stage of its journey following its acquisition by SHS Drinks, bringing one of Britain's most nostalgic drinks firmly into the modern craft beer scene.

Founded by three friends in 2018, Shandy Shack has built its reputation by reimagining traditional shandy for today's drinkers. Rather than simply mixing beer with lemonade, the company combines craft beer with natural fruit flavours to create refreshing, lower-alcohol drinks that are full of flavour while sitting at an approachable 2.5% ABV.

Now, with the backing of SHS Drinks and growing availability through Sainsbury's, direct-to-consumer sales and a successful collaboration with M&S, the brand is hoping this summer will become "the summer of shandy".

The refreshed packaging has been designed to make it immediately obvious what customers are buying. Each can now proudly displays the word "shandy" alongside its main fruit flavour, helping shoppers quickly identify the drink while keeping the familiar Shandy Shack logo and colours that existing fans already recognise.

The recipes themselves remain unchanged, so loyal customers can expect exactly the same flavours they've come to enjoy.

The updated range includes Lemon Shandy with IPA, Elderflower Shandy with Lager, Raspberry Shandy with Lager and Ginger Beer Shandy with Pale Ale. Each has been created with a different occasion in mind, from seaside afternoons and summer barbecues to cosy evenings by the fire.

One standout in the collection is the Elderflower Shandy with Lager, brewed in collaboration with Bottle Green®. Combining crisp pilsner with fragrant elderflower cordial, it offers a light floral character that feels perfectly suited to warm summer afternoons. 

Also made with Bottle Green®, the Raspberry Shandy with Lager delivers bright berry flavours balanced by a refreshing lager base.

Meanwhile, the Lemon Shandy with IPA uses Citra and Mosaic hops alongside natural lemonade for a modern twist on the traditional pub favourite, while the Ginger Beer Shandy with Pale Ale offers warming ginger spice layered over a smooth malty pale ale.

The rebrand comes at a time when fruit beers and lower-alcohol drinks continue to attract growing interest from consumers looking for flavour without high alcohol content. Shandy Shack's collaboration with M&S has already demonstrated that appetite, with the retailer reportedly selling one co-branded can every minute since launch.

Whether you're rediscovering shandy after years away or trying it for the first time, Shandy Shack's refreshed range shows that this classic British drink is far from old-fashioned. With quality craft beer, natural fruit flavours and a focus on easy-drinking refreshment, shandy looks set to be making a very welcome comeback this summer.

shandyshack.co.uk

A Taste of Winchester Ends with Spectacular Community Feast and Canapé Winner

A Taste of Winchester concluded with a six-course Community Long Lazy Lunch and crowned the winner of its inaugural Canapé Competition, celebrating Hampshire's finest food and drink.

Winchester's thriving food and drink scene has once again taken centre stage as A Taste of Winchester came to a memorable close with a spectacular Community Long Lazy Lunch in the heart of the city.

Held in The Square under glorious summer sunshine, the finale brought together 250 diners for an unforgettable six-course feast served at one long communal table stretching the length of the square. It marked the perfect ending to two weeks of celebrations showcasing the incredible restaurants, chefs, producers and hospitality businesses that make Winchester such a fantastic destination for food lovers.

Organised by Winchester BID, food and drink PR Miranda Rocksmith and a volunteer steering committee of local hospitality businesses, with sponsorship from Dutton Gregory, the festival highlighted not only exceptional food but also the collaborative spirit of the city's hospitality community.

For the grand finale, chefs from Bar Lento, Rick Stein Winchester and St James Tavern joined forces in a remarkable display of teamwork. Working as one kitchen in challenging summer heat, they created six beautifully crafted courses featuring ingredients sourced from Hampshire alongside flavours inspired by Southern Spain. Judging by the empty plates and smiling faces, every dish was a resounding success.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, guests enjoyed live performances from Winchester Acapella and Winchester Uke Jam, creating a relaxed afternoon that celebrated great food, music and community in equal measure.

The festival also introduced its first-ever Canapé Competition, encouraging local chefs to create an original canapé showcasing Isle of Wight tomatoes. Visitors sampled the creations throughout the fortnight before casting their votes.

Taking the inaugural title was St James Tavern, whose Isle of Wight tomato arancini with home-smoked duck and Isle of Wight tomato caviar proved the clear public favourite.

Second place went to Winchester Hotel & Spa for its elegant combination of marinated Isle of Wight tomatoes, whipped Rosary goats' cheese, basil oil, micro coriander and rye cracker, while MIXA (formerly YiasYias) claimed third with its Isle of Wight heritage tomato and soy-cured tuna served on a crisp nori cracker.

Dr Paul Spencer, Executive Director of Winchester BID, described the finale as everything organisers had hoped for, praising the collaboration between the participating restaurants and noting that guests were already asking when the next festival would take place before the event had even finished.

Sarah Strangeway of Bar Lento echoed those sentiments, saying the event perfectly demonstrated what Winchester's hospitality businesses can achieve when they work together.

Meanwhile, St James Tavern's James Bennett thanked everyone who voted in the competition, saying the award was a wonderful celebration of local produce and the creativity of Winchester's chefs.

If this year's event is anything to go by, A Taste of Winchester has firmly established itself as one of Hampshire's most delicious annual celebrations, leaving diners eagerly awaiting next year's menu.

That's Business: How to Run a Mini Beer Festival in Your Pub, Hotel...

That's Business: How to Run a Mini Beer Festival in Your Pub, Hotel...: Discover how pubs, hotels and bars can organise a successful mini beer festival with guest ales, food pairings, brewery partnerships and sma...

American Flavours Win Over British Taste Buds as Bourbon and BBQs Grow in Popularity

The FIFA World Cup may be taking place in the United States, but it appears the tournament is influencing more than just football fans. 

New research from Buffalo Trace Distillery suggests that British consumers are increasingly embracing American food, drink and culture, with bourbon and authentic American barbecue becoming particularly popular this summer.

According to the survey, 38% of Britons say they have become more interested in American culture since the World Cup began, while a further 26% already considered themselves fans before the tournament kicked off.

That growing enthusiasm is making its way onto the barbecue menu. While the traditional British barbecue remains a firm favourite for 38% of people, almost a quarter (23%) say they would now choose an American-style barbecue instead. Think slow-cooked brisket, smoky ribs, pulled pork and bold flavours replacing the familiar burgers and sausages.

The research also highlights changing drinking habits. Around one in six people (16%) say they are choosing American bourbon instead of more traditional European spirits, while nearly a third (30%) now view bourbon as an ideal drink for summer entertaining.

Buffalo Trace believes the trend reflects a growing appreciation for authentic American whiskey in the UK. Produced on the banks of the Kentucky River, Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon is known for its smooth vanilla and caramel notes and is aged longer than many mainstream bourbons to develop its distinctive flavour.

Whether served neat as the sun sets, mixed with ginger ale for a refreshing summer drink or used in classic cocktails such as a Manhattan, bourbon is increasingly becoming part of Britain's outdoor dining culture.

Lorenzo Farronato, European Marketing Director at Buffalo Trace, said it was encouraging to see more people discovering bourbon as part of relaxed summer occasions.

He explained to That's Food and Drink that the distillery has always focused on producing high-quality American whiskey, adding that many people who try bourbon quickly develop an appreciation for its unique character and versatility.

The popularity of American whiskey is also reflected by the opening of Buffalo Trace Distillery London in Covent Garden, where visitors can take guided tastings and learn more about the history and craftsmanship behind Kentucky bourbon.

With the United States preparing to celebrate its 250th anniversary, American food and drink appear to be enjoying a moment in the spotlight. Whether it's slow-smoked barbecue, classic cocktails or a simple bourbon and ginger, British consumers seem increasingly happy to add a taste of Kentucky to their summer celebrations.

Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon is available from major UK supermarkets with a recommended retail price of around £29.50. Obviously, we should all remember to drink responsibly.