Finding Good Teashops and Coffee Shops: A Practical Guide for Proper Brew Lovers

There’s something quietly reassuring about a good teashop or coffee shop. 

Whether you’re seeking a perfectly brewed pot of Assam, a flat white with velvety microfoam, or simply a warm corner to gather your thoughts, the right place makes all the difference.

But how do you separate the genuinely good from the merely convenient?

Here’s a practical guide to finding spots that are worth your time (and your money).

1. Start With the Brew Itself

A good café or tearoom should take its drinks seriously.

In Teashops

Look for:

Loose-leaf options rather than only bagged blends

Clear information about origin (Darjeeling, Assam, Ceylon, Japanese green, etc.)

Proper teapots and strainers

Milk served separately

If a place advertises “afternoon tea”, check whether they actually know their teas or if it’s simply about the cake stand.

In Coffee Shops

Watch for:

Beans sourced from known roasters

Baristas who weigh and time their shots

Clean machines and well-maintained grinders

Milk that’s textured, not scalded

A good flat white shouldn’t taste burnt or bitter.

2. Pay Attention to Atmosphere

A truly good spot has an identity.

Are people lingering, chatting, reading? Or is it just a quick turnover counter?

Some places have become institutions because of this welcoming character:

Bettys Café Tea Rooms https://www.bettys.co.uk/cafe-tea-rooms

Elegant, traditional, and meticulous about tea service. A benchmark for classic British tearoom culture.

The Attendant https://attendantcoffee.com/pages/locations

A quirky London coffee shop set in a converted Victorian lavatory — proof that atmosphere can elevate a simple cup of coffee into an experience.

You don’t need grand heritage or novelty architecture — but you do want somewhere that feels intentional.

3. Check the Cake (It Tells You Everything)

The counter is revealing.

Are cakes clearly homemade?

Is there a seasonal element?

Are scones fresh, not dry?

If a place cuts corners on baking, it often cuts corners on brewing too.

4. Look Beyond the High Street Chains

Chains aren’t automatically bad — consistency can be reassuring — but independent places often offer more character and better sourcing.

In the UK, you’ll find quality in both national names and smaller operators:

Caffè Nero

Costa Coffee

Tea Room at Fortnum & Mason

Each offers a different experience — from dependable espresso to refined afternoon tea service.

5. Use Reviews — But Read Between the Lines

Five stars mean little without context.

Instead, look for:

Comments about friendly staff

Mentions of clean facilities

Praise for specific drinks

Repeat visitors

If locals keep returning, that’s usually a good sign.

6. Trust Your Instincts

Sometimes you walk in and immediately feel at ease. The lighting is right. The cups feel solid. There's an attractive smell of coffee in the air. The music isn’t intrusive. The staff greet you properly.

That instinct matters.

7. Turn It Into a Ritual

Finding good teashops and coffee shops isn’t just about caffeine. It’s about slowing down.

Make a habit of:

Trying one new independent café per month

Ordering something different each visit

Supporting local businesses

You may discover a hidden gem just off the high street.

Final Thoughts

A good teashop or coffee shop isn’t defined by trendiness or Instagram aesthetics. It’s defined by care — care in brewing, care in baking, care in hospitality.

And once you find one that gets it right, you’ll return not just for the drink… but for the feeling.

That's Food and Drink Presents Lunar New Year Grazing Party Ideas: Easy Hosting Guide

Host a vibrant Lunar New Year grazing party with symbolic dishes, red and gold styling, easy prep tips and drink ideas. 

Create a festive sharing table full of luck and flavour.

A Lunar New Year grazing party is a relaxed, sociable way to celebrate renewal, prosperity and togetherness. 

Instead of a formal meal, create a vibrant table filled with symbolic bite-sized dishes that guests can enjoy at their own pace.

1. Choose Symbolic Foods

Include dishes associated with luck and abundance:

Dumplings (wealth)

Spring rolls (prosperity)

Long noodles (longevity)

Oranges or mandarins (good fortune)

Sesame balls or rice cakes (sweet success)

Keep everything easy to pick up and share.

2. Style with Red and Gold

Use a red runner, gold accents and layered platters for height. Bamboo steamers, small dipping bowls and festive lanterns add atmosphere and authenticity.

3. Keep Hosting Simple

Prep fruit, sauces and cold dishes ahead of time. Steam or bake dumplings just before guests arrive. High-quality frozen options can save time without compromising flavour.

4. Offer Thoughtful Drinks

Serve jasmine tea, sparkling water with citrus, or a simple prosecco and orange juice mix for a celebratory touch.

5. Add Interactive Details

Red envelopes with chocolate coins, a zodiac quiz or small explanation cards beside dishes make the evening more engaging.

Final Tip

Focus on warmth, generosity and shared experience. A beautifully arranged grazing table filled with meaningful flavours creates a festive centrepiece and sets the tone for a prosperous year ahead.

Valentine’s Plans Ruined? How to Save the Day with a Romantic Home Event, Instead

Bad weather. Flu. Sprained ankle. A streaming cold. Travel delays. A last-minute cancellation.

Whatever’s derailed your Valentine’s plans, it doesn’t have to derail the romance.

In fact, staying in can be more intimate, more personal, and far less stressful than fighting for restaurant reservations or braving icy pavements or sudden less-than-seasonal snowstorms. 

Here’s how to turn a disappointing situation into a cosy, memorable home celebration.

Step 1: Reset the Mood (Fast)

First, draw a line under the disappointment.

Tidy the main living area quickly (don’t deep clean — just declutter).

Dim the lights.

Light candles or switch on fairy lights.

Put on a favourite playlist.

Atmosphere matters more than extravagance. A warm glow and soft music can transform an ordinary evening into something special.

Step 2: Create a Simple but Special Menu

You don’t need a complicated three-course masterpiece — especially if someone isn’t feeling 100%.

Easy but Romantic Ideas:

Steak and chips with peppercorn sauce

Creamy mushroom pasta with garlic bread

Homemade pizza with favourite toppings

A grazing board with cheeses, crackers, fruit and chocolate

If cooking feels like too much, elevate what you have:

Order a takeaway and plate it nicely.

Use proper plates and glasses.

Add a small dessert like strawberries and cream or chocolate brownies.

It’s not about culinary perfection. It’s about sharing the moment.

Step 3: Turn It into an “Event”

Instead of just “having dinner”, give the evening a theme.

1. Indoor Picnic

Lay a blanket on the floor. Add cushions. Serve finger foods. Open a bottle of wine or sparkling water.

2. Home Cinema Night

Choose a romantic classic or a favourite comfort film. Dim the lights, make popcorn, and agree to put phones away.

3. At-Home Spa Evening

If poor health is the issue, lean into rest and recovery:

Warm towels

Gentle back or hand massage

Herbal tea

Face masks

Romance doesn’t have to mean high energy. Sometimes it means looking after each other.

Step 4: Add a Personal Touch

This is where home wins over restaurants.

Write a short handwritten note.

Share three things you appreciate about each other.

Recreate your first date meal.

Look through old photos together.

A little thoughtfulness goes much further than a crowded dining room ever could.

Step 5: Keep Expectations Real

If illness is involved, adjust the tone. You don’t need glamour. You need comfort.

Swap heels for slippers.

Trade champagne for hot chocolate.

Keep it early and relaxed.

Valentine’s isn’t about perfection. It’s about connection.

Why Staying In Can Be Better

When plans fall apart, it’s easy to feel frustrated. But some of the most meaningful evenings happen unexpectedly.

At home:

There’s no rush.

No loud tables next to you.

No taxi stress.

No late bus vanished from the timetable.

No pressure.

Just time together.

Final Thought

If bad weather or poor health has disrupted your Valentine’s plans, consider it an opportunity rather than a disaster.

Light the candles. Put the kettle on. Plate up whatever you’ve got.

Romance isn’t cancelled — it’s just moved indoors.

Vegan Chocolat Expands Professional Range with Cost-Effective Confectionery Chip Solutions

Vegan Chocolat has announced the launch of two new professional chocolate chip products designed to support food businesses seeking reliable performance, consistent quality, and improved cost efficiency without compromising on flavour or functionality.

The new additions - Dark Confectionery Chips and Rice-Based Cocoa Confectionery Chips - have been developed specifically for B2B customers, including wholesalers, professional kitchens, manufacturers, bakeries, and chocolatiers. 

Both products offer direct, one-to-one replacements for standard chocolate recipes across baking, confectionery, and dessert applications, delivering consistent, reliable performance at a competitive price point.

Built for Professional Use

Both products deliver dependable melt, set, and handling properties, making them suitable for a wide range of commercial applications including:

Baking (cookies, brownies, muffins)

Coatings and enrobing

Moulded decorations

Inclusions for ice cream, desserts, and cereal bars

Foodservice and large-scale manufacturing

The Dark Confectionery Chips provide a classic, well-balanced cocoa flavour and consistent appearance, ideal for businesses wanting a familiar dark chocolate profile at a more competitive price point.

The Rice-Based Cocoa Confectionery Chips offer a dairy-free, soy-free alternative formulated using rice-based ingredients, making them particularly suitable for allergen-aware production and value-led product lines.

Both ideal for:

High-volume manufacturers

Cafés, bakeries, and caterers

Seasonal and promotional product ranges

Businesses navigating rising ingredient costs

Pricing & Availability

Both products are available in trade-friendly bulk pack sizes with volume-based pricing.

- Dark Confectionery Chips prices start from: £12.41 per 1kg / £85.89 per 7.5 kg

- Rice Based Cocoa Confectionery Chips prices start from: £12.30 per 1kg / £84.78 per 7.5 kg

Available now for immediate order online, with fast delivery (free mainland UK delivery).

https://plamilfoods.co.uk

Chinese New Year: Celebrating with Food You Can Cook at Home

Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is one of the most important celebrations in the Chinese calendar. 

It’s a time for fresh starts, family gatherings and, most importantly, food that symbolises luck, prosperity and togetherness.

You don’t need to book a restaurant or master professional wok skills to mark the occasion. 

With a bit of planning, it’s easy to bring the spirit of Chinese New Year into your own kitchen using dishes that are achievable, comforting and perfect for sharing.

Why Food Matters at Chinese New Year

Food during Chinese New Year isn’t just about flavour – it’s packed with meaning. Many dishes are chosen because their names, shapes or ingredients symbolise good fortune, wealth, happiness or longevity. Meals are usually shared family-style, reinforcing togetherness and generosity as the new year begins.

Classic Chinese New Year Dishes You Can Make at Home

Dumplings (Jiaozi)

Dumplings are a Chinese New Year staple, especially in northern China. Their shape resembles ancient gold ingots, making them a symbol of wealth and prosperity.

At home tip:

Use shop-bought dumpling wrappers and fill them with pork and cabbage, chicken, prawns, or a simple vegetable mix. Pan-fry for crispy bottoms or boil for a softer finish.

Spring Rolls

Golden and crisp, spring rolls represent wealth because they resemble gold bars. They’re also one of the most familiar Chinese dishes for UK home cooks.

At home tip:

Fill with shredded vegetables, beansprouts and cooked chicken or prawns. Oven-baking works well if you’d prefer less oil.

Longevity Noodles

Long noodles symbolise a long and healthy life. Traditionally, they shouldn’t be cut before cooking.

At home tip:

Stir-fry egg or wheat noodles with vegetables, soy sauce and sesame oil. Add prawns, chicken or tofu for a complete dish.

Steamed Fish

Fish symbolises abundance and surplus, as the Chinese word for fish sounds like the word for “extra” or “left over”.

At home tip:

Steam a whole sea bass or bream with ginger, spring onions and soy sauce. Serve it whole for tradition, or use fillets if that feels more approachable.

Easy Sides and Extras

Stir-fried greens such as pak choi or Chinese broccoli for balance

Mushrooms for good fortune and earthiness

Egg-fried rice to use up leftovers and stretch the meal

Simple dipping sauces made from soy sauce, rice vinegar and chilli oil

These dishes round out the table and make the meal feel generous without adding stress.

Sweet Treats for Good Luck

Tangyuan (Sweet Rice Balls)

These glutinous rice balls, often filled with sesame or peanut paste, symbolise family unity.

Shortcut idea:

Buy frozen tangyuan from an Asian supermarket and serve them in a light ginger syrup.

Sesame Balls

Crispy on the outside with a chewy centre, sesame balls represent wealth and happiness.

Mandarin Oranges

Not really a dessert, but essential. Oranges symbolise good luck and prosperity and are often given as gifts.

Hosting a Chinese New Year Meal at Home

You don’t need a huge spread. Choose one or two symbolic main dishes, add a couple of sides and finish with something sweet. Red napkins, candles or a simple centrepiece can nod to tradition without overdoing it. Most importantly, cook with the idea of sharing – Chinese New Year food is meant to be enjoyed together.

A Celebration Anyone Can Enjoy

Cooking Chinese New Year food at home is about more than following tradition perfectly. It’s about welcoming the new year with warmth, generosity and a table full of comforting, meaningful dishes. Whether you cook one dish or an entire feast, it’s a lovely excuse to slow down, eat well and celebrate fresh beginnings.

Tired of Tacos? Bored of Fancy Foreign Snacks? Get Down with Proper British Isles Comfort Food!

Don’t get me wrong, tacos have their moment. But if you’ve reached peak tortilla, and yet another packet of imported “artisan” snacks has left you cold (and oddly skint), it might be time to come home. Right home. To the comforting, beige-leaning, utterly dependable snacks and comfort foods of the British Isles.

Because when it comes to proper satisfaction, Britain, Ireland, Scotland and Wales quietly deliver.

The Joy of Familiar Flavours

There’s something deeply reassuring about snacks you recognise instantly. No ingredient list that reads like a chemistry exam. No need to Google pronunciation. Just solid, time-tested food that knows exactly what it’s doing.

Think:

Warm, filling

Salty, buttery, savoury

Designed to keep you going through drizzle, graft, and general life fatigue

This is food that doesn’t try too hard — and that’s precisely the point.

Snack Classics That Never Let You Down

When hunger strikes between meals, the British Isles have been sorting it out for generations:

Scotch eggs – Portable perfection. Crispy coating, seasoned meat, proper egg. What more do you want?

Sausage rolls – Flaky pastry + well-seasoned pork = national treasure.

Cheese and crackers – Especially with a strong Cheddar or crumbly Lancashire.

Welsh rarebit – Toast, but make it bold. Cheesy, mustardy, deeply comforting.

Pork pies – Cold, firm, unapologetic. Ideal for lunchboxes, picnics or midnight fridge raids.

And don't forget pickled eggs, pickled onions, Worcestershire Sauce, Piccalilli to add a "wow!" factor to your British snacking.  

No gimmicks. Just food that gets the job done.

Comfort Foods That Hug You Back

If snacks are the warm handshake, comfort food is the full embrace:

Beans on toast – Laugh all you like; it’s cheap, filling, and endlessly customisable.

Mash and gravy – Works with sausages, pies, or on its own when life feels unfair.

Fish and chips – Still unbeatable when done right. Vinegar mandatory.

Irish soda bread with butter – Simple, hearty, and astonishingly satisfying.

Shepherd’s pie – Savoury mince, creamy mash, baked till golden. No passport required.

These dishes don’t chase trends — they outlast them.

Why We Keep Coming Back to British Food

There’s a reason these foods endure:

They’re affordable

They’re filling

They suit real life, real weather, and real appetites

While novelty snacks come and go, British Isles comfort food sticks around because it works. It feeds families. It fills lunchboxes. It keeps pubs, cafés and kitchens ticking over.

And honestly? Sometimes a sausage roll is exactly what you need — not a fermented chilli crisp flown halfway round the world.

So Next Time You’re Snack-Shopping…

Before reaching for another over-hyped foreign treat, pause. Look closer to home. There’s a Scotch egg waiting. A slab of cheese begging to be sliced. A pot of mash that will absolutely improve your day.

Turns out you don’t need fancy.

You just need proper.

Cake it forward - International Animal Rescue Launches Campaign with “An Afternoon Tea with a Cause”

International Animal Rescue launches fundraising campaign to help save endangered orangutans.

International Animal Rescue is calling on animal lovers, conservationists and cake enthusiasts to indulge in some sweet treats this March at its Vegan Afternoon Tea event as part of its Cakes for Apes fundraising campaign.

Held on World Forest Day (21st March), the afternoon tea fundraising event coincides with International Day of Forests and will help raise vital funds to support IAR’s orangutan rescue, rehabilitation and lifelong care programmes.

Funds raised will benefit orangutans who have been displaced from their rainforest homes through habitat loss and deforestation and those orphaned or injured due to illegal wildlife trade.

International Animal Rescue’s fundraising goal for the 2026 Cakes for Apes campaign is £25,000, which will provide food, veterinary care and medicines for orangutans currently in IAR’s care.

During the afternoon tea event, guests can enjoy a selection of mouth-watering vegan cakes, freshly baked scones, finger sandwiches and a cup of tea. 

All delicious treats have been thoughtfully curated and crafted to be suitable for vegans and ethically made with the planet and its inhabitants in mind. Attendees will also receive an exclusive goody bag as a thank you for supporting the orangutans.

President of International Animal Rescue, Alan Knight OBE, will discuss the charity’s worldwide conservation efforts and what we can do to help protect endangered species worldwide. Alan will be joined by Gavin Bruce, CEO, who will provide an update on some of the incredible orangutans International Animal Rescue has rescued and stories from the rescue team on the frontline.

Event Information

Date: Saturday 21st March 2026

Time: 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Venue: Hotel du Vin Brighton

Price: £40.00

Tickets are very limited and can be booked here: https://bit.ly/Cakes4ApesTea2026

National Allotment Society announces ‘Grow to Learn’ theme for National Allotments Week 2026

The National Allotment Society (NAS) has today announced the exciting theme for National Allotments Week 2026, taking place from 10–16 August 2026.

The new theme, Grow to Learn – Lifelong lessons from the allotment, will celebrate the educational, personal development, and well-being benefits of allotment gardening for people of all ages.

The theme highlights how allotments function as living classrooms, where learning happens through hands-on experience, shared knowledge, and connection with the natural world. Alongside practical growing skills, allotment gardening nurtures wider life skills including patience, resilience, curiosity, problem-solving, and teamwork, and, of course, physical wellbeing and food security, too.

Through time spent on the plot, individuals learn to adapt to challenges, understand seasonal change, and develop confidence and wellbeing alongside their crops. These informal learning experiences often span generations, making allotments unique spaces for lifelong learning, community connection, and personal growth.

By focusing on Grow to Learn, the National Allotment Society aims to reframe allotments not just as places to grow food, but as dynamic learning environments that support personal growth, mental and physical wellbeing, and food security.

National Allotments Week 2026 will feature a national digital campaign sharing stories and reflections from allotment holders and ambassadors, highlighting the many ways allotments act as living classrooms and places of continual learning.

Further details about National Allotments Week 2026 activities, resources, and opportunities to get involved will be announced in due course.

National Allotments Week takes place from 10–16 August 2026.

The National Allotment Society (NAS) is the UK’s leading organisation representing more allotment holders and leisure gardeners. NAS provides advice, guidance, and advocacy to support people in growing their own food, improving their well-being, and connecting with their communities.

With a nationwide network of 130,000 members, volunteers, and ambassadors, NAS works to make allotments engaging, inclusive, and rewarding — supporting physical and mental well-being, social connection, and environmental awareness through the simple act of growing.

For more information, visit www.thenas.org.uk

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a Feast for Two at Home

Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to mean battling for restaurant reservations, fixed menus, or eye-watering prices. 

In fact, some of the most memorable celebrations happen at home, where you can set the pace, choose the food you truly love, and enjoy each other’s company without distractions.

A Valentine’s feast for two is about indulgence, comfort, and connection. Whether you’re confident in the kitchen or keeping things deliberately simple, here’s how to create a romantic at-home celebration that feels special.

Start with a Thoughtful Menu

The best Valentine’s menus aren’t complicated, they’re considered. Choose dishes you both enjoy and that don’t keep you stuck in the kitchen all evening.

A simple three-course structure works beautifully:

Starter: Something light, like a sharing platter of olives, cured meats, baked camembert, or garlic prawns

Main: A comforting but indulgent dish such as steak with chunky chips, creamy pasta, roasted chicken, or a rich vegetarian risotto

Dessert: Chocolate fondant, cheesecake, strawberries dipped in chocolate, or even a luxury shop-bought pud dressed up with fresh berries

Sharing dishes can make the meal feel more intimate — one plate, two forks, no rules.

Set the Scene

Atmosphere does a lot of the heavy lifting on Valentine’s Day. You don’t need elaborate decorations; small touches go a long way.

Think:

Candles or soft lighting instead of overhead lights

A clean table with placemats or a tablecloth

Fresh flowers or greenery, even something simple from the supermarket

Music playing quietly in the background — jazz, acoustic, or a shared favourite playlist

Turning phones to silent is one of the most romantic gestures you can make.

Drinks That Feel Like a Treat

You don’t need champagne (unless you want it). A Valentine’s feast is about enjoying something you don’t have every day.

Ideas include:

Prosecco or English sparkling wine

A shared bottle of red or white you’ve been saving

Cocktails made at home, such as a French martini or espresso martini

For non-drinkers, sparkling elderflower, alcohol-free fizz, or a homemade mocktail

Serve drinks in proper glasses — it instantly elevates the experience.

Cook Together, or Cook Ahead

Some couples love cooking together; others prefer one person taking charge so the evening flows smoothly. Both work, just be honest about what will feel most relaxing.

If you want minimal stress:

Prep desserts earlier in the day

Choose mains that can rest or stay warm

Avoid recipes that need last-second juggling

The goal is enjoyment, not perfection.

Finish with Something Meaningful

Once the plates are cleared, keep the evening going in a way that suits you both.

That might mean:

Sharing dessert on the sofa

Watching a favourite film or a romantic classic

Playing a board game or card game

Simply talking, uninterrupted, unhurried

Valentine’s Day is as much about connection as it is about food.

A Feast Made with Love

A Valentine’s feast for two at home isn’t about impressing anyone else. It’s about celebrating your relationship in a way that feels comfortable, indulgent, and personal.

Good food, a relaxed atmosphere, and genuine time together will always beat a rushed meal out — and it might just become a tradition you look forward to every year.

Celebrate Chocolate Day

Chocolate Day, Monday 9th of February, is the perfect excuse to pause, indulge, and enjoy one of life’s simplest pleasures. Whether you prefer dark, milk, or white, chocolate has a knack for lifting the mood and turning an ordinary moment into something quietly special.

In the UK, chocolate is woven into everyday life – from a biscuit with a brew to a cheeky bar grabbed at the till. On Chocolate Day, though, it deserves centre stage. 

Treat yourself to a box of truffles, bake a gooey chocolate cake, or simply savour a square or two slowly, letting it melt rather than rushing the moment.

There’s also something wonderfully nostalgic about chocolate. It reminds us of childhood treats, holiday indulgences, and little rewards after a long day. Even better, good-quality dark chocolate comes with a few feel-good benefits, thanks to antioxidants and that unmistakable serotonin boost.

So however you choose to celebrate, make it intentional. Switch off for five minutes, put the kettle on, unwrap something chocolatey, and enjoy it properly. After all, some days are made for balance – and Chocolate Day is definitely one of them.

Snacks and Drinks to Mark Propose Day

Propose Day (it's Sunday 8th of February) doesn’t have to mean grand gestures and fireworks. Sometimes, the most meaningful moments happen over good food, shared quietly. Whether you’re planning a proposal or simply celebrating your relationship, the right snacks and drinks help set the mood.

Sweet Treats with Heart

Chocolate-covered strawberries are a timeless choice – indulgent but effortless. Mini desserts such as brownies, shortbread hearts, or elegant pastries work beautifully too, especially when designed for sharing. A box of macarons or fancy biscuits adds colour and a touch of luxury without feeling heavy.

Savoury Snacks for a Relaxed Evening

A small cheese board with crackers and fruit is intimate and unfussy. Sharing plates like olives, sausage rolls, baked camembert, or artisan crisps keep things casual and encourage conversation. Warm bread with dips is another simple option that feels thoughtful rather than staged.

Drinks Worth Raising a Glass

Champagne or sparkling wine adds instant celebration, even in small amounts. Home-made cocktails don’t need to be complicated – a well-served classic goes a long way. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling elderflower, mocktails, or alcohol-free fizz still feel special. And for quieter moments, a pot of good tea shared on the sofa can be just as romantic.

Keep It Simple

Soft lighting, music you both love, and unhurried time together matter more than extravagance. Propose Day is about intention, connection, and creating a moment that feels right for you – often with nothing more than a shared snack and a well-poured drink.

Rose Day 2026: Celebrating Roses in Food and Drink

Rose Day, celebrated on 7 February, marks the beginning of Valentine’s Week, but here at That’s Food and Drink, we’re less interested in grand gestures and more focused on how roses can be enjoyed where they really shine – in the kitchen and the glass.

Used carefully, rose brings a soft floral note that works beautifully in both sweet dishes and drinks.

From traditional Middle Eastern desserts to modern British baking, rose has long earned its place as a culinary ingredient rather than just a decorative one.

Using Roses in the Kitchen: A Quick Guide

Before you start, a few essential tips:

Always use culinary-grade roses or edible rose petals

Avoid florist roses – these are often chemically treated

Damask and centifolia roses offer the best flavour

Rose should be subtle – it enhances, never dominates

A light hand makes all the difference.

Rose-Inspired Recipes to Try at Home

Rose & Vanilla Shortbread

A refined twist on a classic British bake, perfect with tea.

Ingredients

225g unsalted butter, softened

110g caster sugar

275g plain flour

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp rose water

Method

Cream butter and sugar until pale

Mix in vanilla and rose water

Fold in flour to form a dough

Roll, cut, and chill for 20 minutes

Bake at 170°C (fan) for 15–18 minutes

Finish with a light dusting of icing sugar or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate, or white chocolate

Rose, Raspberry & White Chocolate Loaf

Rose and raspberry are a natural pairing. Use ½ teaspoon of rose water in the batter to gently lift the sweetness without overpowering the cake.

Rose-Infused Honey

Ideal for cheeseboards, breakfasts, and desserts.

Gently warm 250g runny honey with a small handful of dried edible rose petals. Leave to infuse for 24 hours, then strain.

Try it with:

Soft cheeses

Greek yoghurt

Fresh berries or sliced pears

Drinks with a Floral Touch

Rose Lemonade

Light, refreshing, and perfect for non-alcoholic celebrations.

Mix:

Fresh lemonade

½ tsp rose syrup or rose water

A squeeze of lemon

Serve over ice with edible petals or a slice of lemon.

Rose & Gin Fizz

A simple cocktail with an elegant edge.

50ml gin

15ml rose syrup

Fresh lemon juice

Top with prosecco or soda

Serve chilled in a coupe or flute.

Rose & Cardamom Tea

A calming option for a quieter Rose Day.

Steep black or green tea with:

A pinch of crushed cardamom

A few dried rose petals

Sweeten lightly with honey.

Styling a Rose Day Spread

Food tastes better when it looks inviting:

Scatter a few edible petals along the table

Use pale pinks, creams, and soft neutrals

Keep decorations minimal – roses speak for themselves

This is about atmosphere, not excess.

Why Roses Belong in Food and Drink

Roses bring more than flavour:

They pair beautifully with citrus, berries, chocolate, and spices

They encourage slower, more mindful eating

They turn everyday recipes into something that feels special

For Rose Day 2026, that sense of calm indulgence feels particularly fitting.

Final Sip

You don’t need an elaborate menu or a restaurant booking to mark Rose Day. A rose-scented bake, a floral drink, or even a simple cup of tea can be enough to make the day feel considered and quietly celebratory.

At That’s Food and Drink, we think roses deserve a place on the plate as well as in the vase.

Celebrating International Day of Human Fraternity with Food, Drink and Togetherness

On 4 February, the world marks International Day of Human Fraternity, a moment dedicated to unity, understanding and peaceful coexistence across cultures, faiths and communities. 

While the theme is big and global, the way we celebrate it can be beautifully simple: by sharing food, raising a glass, and spending time together.

Food and drink have always been powerful connectors. Across every culture, they bring people to the same table, spark conversation, and remind us of what we have in common rather than what sets us apart.

Why Food Matters on This Day

Meals are often where trust is built and stories are shared. Sitting down together, whether at a kitchen table, a café, or a community hall — encourages listening, empathy and connection.

Celebrating International Day of Human Fraternity with food doesn’t need to be formal or political. It’s about kindness, curiosity and generosity, expressed in the most universal language there is: a shared meal.

Ideas for a Human Fraternity–Inspired Table

You don’t need to cook a feast from scratch. Small, thoughtful choices can carry a lot of meaning.

Try mixing cultures on one table, such as:

Flatbreads or naan served alongside British cheeses

Mezze dishes paired with fresh salads

Rice or grain bowls with toppings inspired by different cuisines

Simple soups or stews that encourage sharing and seconds

The goal isn’t authenticity perfection — it’s openness and inclusion.

Drinks That Encourage Conversation

Drinks play a quiet but important role in togetherness. Consider offering a mix that suits everyone:

Teas from different regions, served side by side

Fresh fruit cordials or homemade lemonades

Alcohol-free options alongside wine or beer

Shared carafes rather than individual bottles

Pouring for one another is a small gesture, but it reinforces the spirit of hospitality and care.

Hosting Without Pressure

If you’re inviting people into your home, keep it relaxed:

Ask guests to bring a dish that means something to them

Label foods clearly to respect dietary needs

Encourage stories about family recipes or food traditions

Focus on conversation, not presentation

Human fraternity is about respect — making everyone feel welcome matters more than what’s on the plate.

Celebrating on a Smaller Scale

Not everyone wants to host a gathering, and that’s perfectly fine. You can still mark the day by:

Sharing a meal with a neighbour

Supporting a local café run by a different cultural community

Cooking a dish from another culture and learning its background

Simply eating together as a household, phones down, conversation flowing

Togetherness doesn’t have to be loud to be meaningful.

A Gentle Reminder We All Belong

International Day of Human Fraternity is a reminder that compassion often starts close to home. Food and drink give us a reason to pause, sit together and remember that — despite our differences — we all gather around the same human need to be nourished and connected.

Sometimes, the most powerful act of unity is as simple as saying: come and eat with me.

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Milk on the Doorstep: Why UK Milk Delivery Services Still Matter

Milk delivery may feel like a throwback, but it never truly disappeared, and today, it’s enjoying renewed interest across the UK. 

As shoppers become more conscious of sustainability, freshness and supporting British producers, the humble milk round is proving its relevance once again.

Why Milk Delivery Still Works

Fresher, Better-Tasting Milk

Doorstep milk is often bottled within 24 hours, with fewer steps between farm and fridge. That shorter supply chain can mean noticeably fresher milk compared with supermarket alternatives.

Less Plastic, Less Waste

Most services use reusable glass bottles that are collected and returned for reuse. For households trying to reduce single-use plastic, this is a simple, practical switch.

Everyday Convenience

Regular deliveries remove the need for last-minute shop trips when milk runs out. You get what you need, when you need it — without impulse buys.

Supporting UK Dairies

Milk delivery often supports British farms and independent dairies, helping smaller producers survive in a competitive market.

Who’s Delivering Milk in the UK?

Milk delivery now combines tradition with modern systems:

Milk & More – A national service delivering milk and everyday essentials via online ordering.

https://www.milkandmore.co.uk

McQueens Dairies – A long-established family business serving large parts of the UK.

https://www.mcqueensdairies.co.uk

Freshways – Best known for wholesale, but also running doorstep rounds in some areas.

https://www.freshways.co.uk

The Modern Miulkman

Delivers dairy and non-dairy milks and mor

https://themodernmilkman.co.uk

Independent local dairies – Many communities are still served by regional milk rounds offering milk, eggs, juice and more.

A Modern Take on a Classic Service

Today’s milk delivery is fully updated, with online accounts, flexible delivery schedules, easy order changes and digital payments — all without losing the personal service people value.

Is It Worth the Cost?

Milk delivery can cost slightly more than supermarket milk, but many customers feel the benefits outweigh the difference. Better freshness, reduced waste, fewer shop trips and the environmental gains all add up.

Final Milky Thoughts

Milk delivery in the UK isn’t about nostalgia — it’s about practicality. With reusable bottles, reliable delivery and support for British producers, it offers a refreshingly sensible way to buy a daily staple.

Sometimes, the simplest ideas are the ones that still work best.

Finalists and Semifinalists for $1 Million Seeding The Future Global Food System Challenge announced

The Seed Grant Finalists and Growth Grant and Seeding the Future Grand Prize Semifinalists of the 5th annual Seeding The Future Global Food System Challenge (GFSC) have been announced, marking a key milestone in the $1 million global Challenge supporting impactful and innovative solutions to transform food systems.

Created and funded by Seeding The Future Foundation and, for the first time, hosted by Welthungerhilfe (WHH), the Challenge attracted a record 1,600+ applications from innovator teams in 112 countries, underscoring growing global momentum for food systems transformation.

Following a multi-stage, rigorous international review process, 36 teams advanced across three award levels. These include 16 Seed Grant Finalists (competing for 8 awards of USD 25,000), 12 Growth Grant Semifinalists (competing for 3 awards of USD 100,000), and 8 Seeding The Future Grand Prize Semifinalists (competing for 2 awards of USD 250,000).

“Hosting the GFSC reflects Welthungerhilfe’s commitment to accelerating bold, scalable innovations where they are needed most. This year’s diversity of solutions underscores the complexity of food system challenges and the creativity of innovators worldwide.” Jan Kever, Head of Innovation at Welthungerhilfe told That's Food and Drink.

The submitted innovations span diverse themes and approaches, including climate-smart production, nutrient-dense foods, food loss reduction, and inclusive market models, reflecting the complexity and interconnected nature of today’s food systems challenges.

“The Seeding The Future Global Food System Challenge exists to catalyze impactful, bold, and scalable innovations that advance food systems transformation. We are excited to work alongside Welthungerhilfe as a trusted partner and host of the Challenge and are encouraged by the quality and diversity of innovations emerging from this first year of collaboration.” said Bernhard van Lengerich, Founder and CEO of Seeding The Future Foundation

While the number of awards is limited, all semifinalists and finalist applicants plus all applicants with any prior recognition of other innovation competitions can join the STF Global Food System Innovation Database and Network—currently in beta testing with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations—vastly expanding their visibility and reach across a global audience.

List of 2025 GFSC Seed Grant Finalists, Growth Grant and Seeding The Future Grand Prize Semifinalists

Find details here: welthungerhilfe.org/gfsc-finalists

Seeding The Future Grand Prize Semi-Finalists

CNF Global, Kenya

ZTN Technology PLC, Ethiopia

One Acre Fund, Rwanda

Sanku, Tanzania

Nabahya Food Institute (NFI), Democratic Republic of the Congo

ABALOBI, South Africa

metaBIX Biotech, Uruguay

Nurture Posterity International, Uganda

Growth Grant Semi-Finalists

Baobaby, Togo

Safi International Technologies Inc., Canada

Centro Internacional de Mejoramiento de Maíz y Trigo (CIMMYT), Mexico

Farmlab Yeranda Agrisolution Producer Company Limited, India

Banco de Alimentos Santa Fe (BASFE), Argentina

Chartered Consilorum (Pty) Ltd, South Africa

American University of Beirut, Environment and Sustainable Development Unit (ESDU at AUB), Lebanon

The Source Plus, Kenya

Iviani Farm Limited, Kenya

Rwandese Endogenous Development Association, Rwanda

NatureLEAD, Madagascar

Ndaloh Heritage Organisation, Kenya

Seed Grant Finalists

Inua Damsite CBO, Kenya

World Neighbors, United States

Keloks Technologies Ltd, Nigeria

REBUS Albania, Albania

Tanzania Conservation and Community Empowerment Initiative (TACCEI), Tanzania

Intrasect, Switzerland

VKS AGRITECH, India

Murmushi People's Development Foundation, Nigeria

Levo International, Inc., United States

Effective Altruism Research Services Ltd, Uganda

Taita Taveta University, Kenya

CultivaHub, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Resource Hub for Development (RHD), Kenya

FUTURALGA S.COOP.AND, Spain

West Africa Centre for Crop Improvement, University of Ghana, Ghana

Sustainable Solutions Kenya, Kenya

About Seeding The Future Foundation

STF is a private nonprofit dedicated to ensuring equitable access to safe, nutritious, affordable, and trusted food. It supports innovations that transform food systems and benefit both people and planet. More at Seeding the future.

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Pineapple on a Full English? A Surprisingly Historical Argument

Few things spark a British food debate quite like tinkering with the full English breakfast. 

Baked beans are tolerated, hash browns are still contentious in some quarters, and heaven help anyone who mentions avocado. 

Yet one of the more intriguing (and eyebrow-raising) ideas to surface in recent years comes from Guise Bule de Missenden, founder of the English Breakfast Club, who argues that pineapple may have a legitimate place on the plate, not as a modern gimmick, but on historical grounds.

At first glance, pineapple alongside bacon and eggs sounds like pure provocation. But dig a little deeper, and the argument becomes rather more… British than you might expect.

The Victorian Breakfast Was Not a Modest Affair

The idea of a “traditional” full English as a fixed, unchanging list is largely a modern invention. In the Victorian and Edwardian eras, breakfast — particularly among the middle and upper classes — was expansive, indulgent, and often theatrical.

Breakfast tables could include:

Multiple meats (ham, bacon, kidneys, game)

Fish (kedgeree, kippers)

Eggs in several forms

Preserves, fruits, and sweet accompaniments

Crucially, fruit was not seen as out of place. Fresh, preserved, or stewed fruit regularly appeared at breakfast, especially in wealthier households where imported produce was a sign of status.

Pineapple: A Symbol of British Luxury

Pineapple has a long and fascinating relationship with Britain. Far from being a purely tropical novelty, it became an 18th- and 19th-century status symbol, associated with hospitality, wealth, and empire.

In Georgian and Victorian Britain:

Pineapples were grown in heated glasshouses at enormous expense

They were displayed as centrepieces at banquets

They symbolised refinement and worldliness

If pineapple could sit proudly atop a table as a symbol of welcome and abundance, the argument goes, why would it be excluded from a grand breakfast spread?

Sweet Meets Savoury: Not as Alien as It Sounds

British breakfasts have long embraced sweet-and-savoury contrasts:

Marmalade with salty buttered toast

Fried bread paired with ketchup

Bacon alongside sweet chutneys or brown sauce

Pineapple offers:

Acidity to cut through fatty bacon

Natural sweetness to balance salt

A refreshing counterpoint to heavier elements

From this perspective, grilled or lightly warmed pineapple isn’t an outrageous addition — it simply leans into contrasts the breakfast already enjoys.

A Historical Footnote, Not a Mandate

To be clear, this argument isn’t suggesting pineapple should replace anything, nor that cafés must rush to add it to menus nationwide. Instead, it reframes the conversation:

The full English breakfast has always evolved, and its historical roots are far broader and more flexible than many modern purists admit.

Seen through that lens, pineapple isn’t an invasion. It’s a revival of a time when breakfast was about abundance, variety, and a little culinary swagger.

So… Should Pineapple Be Allowed?

Whether you personally welcome pineapple onto your plate is another matter entirely. For some, it will remain culinary heresy. For others, it’s a fascinating reminder that British food history is richer — and stranger — than we often give it credit for.

One thing is certain: once you realise that the “traditional” full English has never been entirely fixed, the debate becomes far more interesting than a simple yes or no.

And if nothing else, it proves that breakfast, like history itself, is always up for reinterpretation. 

The Future in the Glass: the spirits business Names the Top Innovators Redefining Spirits and What It Means for 2026

From pizza-distilled vodka to crystal-clear Scotch whisky, cannabis spirits to high-ester rum concentrates, this year’s ranking reflects an industry in full creative acceleration, a world where experimentation is no longer fringe, but fast becoming the new mainstream.

The spirits business, the leading global drinks media, has revealed its final top 10 in the Top 50 Innovative Spirits Launches of 2025, spotlighting the brands that pushed boundaries and offered a clear signal of where the global spirits market is heading next.

Collectively, these 10 liquids represent a shift away from incremental line extensions towards genuine technical, sensory and cultural innovation – a trend that will shape brand strategy, portfolio development and consumer expectations well into 2026.

The Top 10 Shortlist

1: Chivas Regal Crystalgold - A crystal-clear Scottish spirit drink created through bespoke filtration that removes colour without stripping flavour. Designed for long serves, crossover occasions and daytime drinking, the number-one product opens up whisky to new consumption moments.

2: Three Families (Mr Lyan x Rockland x Dilmah Tea) – A range of cocktail seasonings blending bitters tradition with modern distillation and tea extracts. Designed to empower experimentation behind the bar and at home, turning flavour into a modular tool.

3: Never Never Signature Vodka – A texture-driven vodka enriched with olive, coconut and avocado oils to deliver mouthfeel as a primary differentiator. Built for premium Martinis and neat sipping.

4: Planteray Hogo Monsta – An ultra high-ester rum designed as a flavour amplifier rather than a sipping spirit. A technical release that celebrates intensity, funk and bartender creativity.

5: Realizzato Coffee Liqueur – A sustainability-led innovation using upcycled coffee grounds to create alcohol, paired with fully recycled packaging. Circular production meets premium flavour.

6: Archie Rose Wattleseed Smoked Cask Whisky -– An Australian single malt smoked via native wattleseed-treated barrels, creating uniquely regional flavour architecture.

7: 1906 Cannabis Spirit – A neutral, alcohol-free THC and CBG ‘spirit’ engineered for social drinking occasions beyond alcohol.

8: Bruichladdich X4+18 Edition 01 – The world’s first quadruple-distilled 18-year-old single malt Scotch, pushing cost, yield and process boundaries.

9: Aureus Vita Gin – Produced on a Fibonacci-inspired still that applies mathematical ratios to botanical interaction and distillation geometry.

10: Isco Pizza Vodka – A vodka distilled from a full organic pizza – herbs, tomato, cheese and wheat – proving novelty flavour can deliver commercial scale when executed seriously.

Melita Kiely, editor-in-chief of The spirits business, said: “Our top 50 ranking explored the most creative products that came to market in 2025, from production techniques to unusual flavours, and even products reaching new heights with their purpose and marketing initiatives.

What’s clear to see is producers are not afraid to explore new flavour dimensions – and for many, their efforts are paying off. Our top pick, Chivas Regal Crystalgold, was especially exciting to see. This spirit has the potential to open the Scotch whisky category up to new drinkers, particularly loyal fans of white spirits, and it’s great to see a brand like Chivas boldly step forward to deliver something truly different and distinct.”

https://www.thespiritsbusiness.com/

Will you be trying pizza flavoured vodka? Please let us know in the comments below!

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SquareMeal announces the UK Top 100 Restaurants for 2026

The UK’s leading independent restaurant guide, SquareMeal, has revealed its UK Top 100 Restaurants for 2026, celebrating the very best dining experiences the country has to offer. 

Unlike any other list of its kind, SquareMeal’s UK Top 100 excludes London restaurants, allowing the wider UK dining scene to take centre stage.

Compiled using a combination of thousands of reader votes and insight from SquareMeal’s expert critics, the UK Top 100 Restaurants list offers a true snapshot of Britain’s diverse and dynamic food culture.

Across the UK, regional dining scenes continue to thrive. Edinburgh leads the way in 2026 with six restaurants featured, including Lyla, The Little Chartroom, and new entries Ardfern, Cardinal, Dogstar and Moss. Birmingham follows closely with five restaurants making the list, including former Top 100 champion Grace & Savour and two Michelin-starred Opheem.

The highest new entry on the list is Vraic in Guernsey, which makes an impressive debut at number four. Elsewhere, culinary powerhouses such as North Yorkshire, Kent and the West Midlands are all strongly represented with multiple entries in the UK Top 100.

SquareMeal UK Top 100 2026 Winner: Wilsons, Bristol

The number one restaurant in the UK for 2026 is Wilsons.

Wilsons in Bristol epitomises the ideal neighbourhood restaurant, delivering confident modern British cooking crafted almost entirely from produce grown in its own market garden. Intimate and charming, it’s one of only a handful of UK restaurants to hold both a Michelin star and a Green Star. Despite its sustainability credentials and world-class cooking, Wilsons remains remarkably good value.

Wilsons was opened in 2016 by partners Jan Ostle and Mary Wilson. Ostle leads the kitchen, while Mary Wilson’s background in biodynamic agriculture underpins the restaurant’s produce-led ethos. Mary also grew up in her family restaurant, which Wilsons is named in honour of.

Chef and Co-Founder Jan Ostle told That's Food and Drink: "We feel incredibly honoured to have been named SquareMeal’s UK Restaurant of the Year 2026. 

"This recognition is testament to the dedication of our entire team, the Bristol community that supports us, and the incredible farmers and growers whose produce shapes everything we do. 2025 was a landmark year for us at Wilsons, and this feels like the perfect way to begin 2026. We’re so excited for what the year ahead will bring."

SquareMeal’s Restaurants Editor, Pete Dreyer, adds: "Few restaurants in Britain combine creativity, humility and value as convincingly as Wilsons. Achieving this from a tiny kitchen and a two-acre farm, without compromising its sustainable, waste-free ideals, is a phenomenal achievement."

Content Director for SquareMeal Caroline Hendry explains the process behind tSqhe awards: "For 2026, judges placed renewed emphasis not only on exceptional cooking, but also on sustainability and a commitment to positive, people-first working environments. With professional kitchens often recognised as high-pressure spaces, this year’s list highlights restaurants actively prioritising staff welfare alongside culinary excellence.’

The full UK Top 100 Restaurants list can be viewed here:

https://www.squaremeal.co.uk/restaurants/best/uk-top-100-restaurants_238

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Allotments help UK households save millions on food as cost-of-living pressures continue

The National Allotment Society says allotments continue to play a vital role in helping households cope with the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, reinforcing food security at a time when food prices and household bills remain high.

Recent figures show UK inflation has risen again, with food prices a key driver of rising costs. Consumer confidence also remains historically low, underlining the sustained pressure many households are facing.

Against this backdrop, allotment holders across the UK report saving hundreds of pounds a year by growing their own fruit and vegetables, while also gaining access to fresh, seasonal produce that would otherwise be difficult to afford. Research in Brighton & Hove found that allotments in the city produce the equivalent of around £1.12 million in food annually, demonstrating the real financial value they bring to local communities. (Brighton & Hove Food Partnership)

“Allotments have long provided practical support for households, and the current economic climate is reinforcing that role,” John Irwin, interim President for the National Allotment Society told That's Food and Drink.

“For many people, growing food is the difference between coping and struggling. A small plot can produce a significant amount of food for relatively low ongoing costs.”

The Society says demand for allotments remains high, with waiting lists in many areas continuing to stretch for years, as people seek reliable ways to manage food costs and reduce reliance on expensive supermarket produce.

The Bank of England has warned inflationary pressures are likely to persist, meaning household budgets may remain under strain for some time. The National Allotment Society says this makes access to allotment space a vital form of long-term resilience for communities.

Beyond financial savings, allotments also provide wider benefits during periods of economic pressure, including improved mental health, gentle physical activity, and strong community support networks.

“When money is tight, the social value of allotments matters just as much as the food they produce,” John added. “They are places where people share skills, seeds and surplus crops, helping each other through challenging times.”

The National Allotment Society is calling on councils and policymakers to protect existing allotment land and invest in new sites, warning that access to growing space is becoming increasingly unequal despite sustained demand.

“Allotments are a low-cost, high-impact resource that already exists in communities,” said the Society. “Protecting and expanding them should be seen as a practical response to the cost of living crisis, not a luxury.”

For further information please visit www.thenas.org.uk

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Norway "Shows the Way" on Chicken Welfare

Pressure mounts on UK companies to address widespread use of controversial breeds.

Animal welfare advocates today hail ‘historic moment’ as the Norwegian chicken industry announces a total transition away from fast-growing chicken breeds by the end of 2027. 

Norway where 70 million chickens are raised for meat annually, will become the first country in the world to transition to 100% higher welfare breeds.

For decades, NGOs have raised concerns about the use of so-called ‘frankenchickens’ – known in Norway as ‘turbochickens.’ Chicken companies typically use fast-growing breeds which have been selectively bred to gain weight as quickly as possible.

The birds suffer from significant and commonplace welfare problems as a result. Countless exposés show the birds struggling to walk under their own weight. Research suggests that fast-growing chickens suffer hundreds of hours of pain during their short lives.

60% of the chickens in Norway are fast-growing breeds, specifically the Ross 308, which is the breed also used by 90% of the UK chicken industry. Over the past five years the Norwegian industry has gradually adopted higher welfare breeds known as the Rustic Gold and the Hubbard JA787.

“What’s happening now in Norway is a historic moment. It’s one of the greatest improvements to animal welfare in history, and it shows that the transition away from fast-growing breeds is possible. But it also shows just how far behind we are on this issue in the UK, where companies have barely started to address this problem,” says Connor Jackson, CEO of the UK branch of Anima International.

The global animal advocacy organisation Anima International has been campaigning in Norway for five years to see a transition away from fast-growing breeds. In the UK, where it also operates, a number of NGOs have been calling for the same transition since 2017 with the Better Chicken Commitment (BCC.)

Last year, Waitrose became the first major UK company to make a full transition to higher welfare breeds in all its products as part of the BCC. M&S, a fellow signatory to the BCC, has transitioned for all fresh chicken, with a plan to transition completely by the end of this year.

However, fast-growing breeds remain the norm in Britain. Other UK retailers have chosen to focus on giving their chickens more space in efforts to address welfare concerns. Whilst advocates recognise this as a positive step, it does not address the fast-growing genetics of the birds.

“UK consumers care deeply about animal welfare, and they would be shocked to see the reality of an intensive chicken farm even with more space,” says Jackson. “Better management is positive, but it only scratches the surface of the problem. To really improve these animals’ lives, we need to follow in Norway’s footsteps with a transition to higher welfare, slower growing breeds.

“Retailers, along with high street brands like KFC, Greggs and Pret need to step up and solve the widespread use of frankenchickens: that’s the biggest cause of suffering for their chickens. Nothing is stopping companies from getting together with industry and finding a solution just like Norway has.”

https://opencages.org/

The Best Way to Rescue Leftover Veg: Homemade Cheese Sauce (No More Sad Side Dishes)

There are two types of leftover vegetables in this world: the ones you actually want to eat again… and the ones sitting in the fridge in a container you keep moving out of the way like it’s going to disappear on its own.

If you’ve got leftover carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, peas, green beans, sprouts, cabbage, leeks, sweetcorn, or even that “bit of everything” you served with Sunday lunch, I’ve got good news: you’re only one proper homemade cheese sauce away from turning them into something you’ll genuinely look forward to eating.

This is one of those simple kitchen tricks that feels like a cheat code. It’s warming, comforting, uses up odds and ends, and it’s far cheaper than throwing food away and starting again.

Let’s turn those leftovers into a bowl of pure comfort.

Why cheese sauce is the ultimate leftover vegetable upgrade

Leftover vegetables can be a bit… tired. They’ve already been cooked once, they’ve cooled down, and by the time you reheat them they can lean towards mushy or bland.

Cheese sauce fixes all of that.

It adds:

Creaminess and richness (instant comfort food energy)

Salt and savouriness (which most leftover veg needs)

A proper “meal” feel (not just a sad side dish)

A way to mix-and-match vegetables without thinking too hard

It also works brilliantly with vegetables that might not excite you on their own, like boiled carrots or leftover sprouts. Cheese makes everything feel intentional.

What leftover vegetables work best?

This idea is extremely forgiving, but some veg shine more than others.

Brilliant choices:

Broccoli

Cauliflower

Carrots

Leeks

Green beans

Peas

Sweetcorn

Cabbage (especially Savoy or white cabbage)

Brussels sprouts (yes, really!)

Also works well with:

Roasted veg like parsnips, squash, peppers, courgettes

Leftover mash mixed in for a thicker, almost “bake” texture

Cooked potatoes (instant cheesy potato bowl situation)

Just be careful with:

Very watery veg (like courgette cooked to death) — drain first

Salad-style leftovers (not the vibe here)

Easy homemade cheese sauce (the classic, proper way)

This is a simple béchamel base with cheese stirred in. It sounds fancy but it’s honestly easy once you’ve done it once.

Ingredients (serves 2–4 depending on how much veg you have)

25g butter

25g plain flour

300ml milk (any milk works, but semi-skimmed or whole is best)

150g mature cheddar, grated (or a mix of cheeses)

1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional but highly recommended)

Salt and black pepper

Optional extras: pinch of paprika, a tiny dash of Worcestershire sauce, or a little garlic powder

Method

Melt the butter in a saucepan over a medium heat.

Stir in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly. This cooks out the raw flour taste.

Add the milk slowly a splash at a time, whisking well as you go so it doesn’t go lumpy.

Once all the milk is in, keep stirring until thickened (it should coat the back of a spoon).

Lower the heat and stir in the cheese a handful at a time until melted.

Add mustard (if using), season with salt and pepper, and taste.

If it needs more “cheese flavour” rather than just creaminess, add a touch more cheddar.

That’s it. Proper homemade cheese sauce, done.

The best way to reheat leftover vegetables without ruining them

The golden rule: don’t boil them again.

Leftover veg has already been cooked, so you just want to warm it through gently.

Option 1: Stove-top (fastest)

Put your veg in a pan with a tablespoon of water

Cover with a lid

Heat for 2–3 minutes until hot

Then pour over the cheese sauce.

Option 2: Microwave (easiest)

Cover the veg (to stop drying out)

Heat in short bursts, stirring once

Then add the sauce on top.

Option 3: Oven bake (best for “proper meal” vibes)

Mix veg and cheese sauce together in an oven dish, top with extra cheese (and maybe breadcrumbs), then bake at 200°C (180°C fan) for 15–20 minutes until bubbling and golden.

If you want comfort food, this is the winner.

How to serve cheesy leftover veg (so it feels like dinner)

Cheese sauce turns vegetables into something you can build a meal around. Here are a few easy serving ideas:

1. On toast

Cheesy veg on thick toast is criminally underrated. Add a fried egg on top if you want to feel powerful.

2. With a jacket potato

Honestly one of the best combinations going. Add a bit of ham or leftover chicken if you want.

3. As a pasta bake shortcut

Stir cheesy veg into cooked pasta, top with more cheese, oven bake. Done.

4. With sausages or bacon

A tray of sausages and a side of cheesy veg feels like a “real dinner” with minimal effort.

5. In a toastie

Let the cheesy veg cool slightly, pile into a toastie with extra cheddar, and grill until crispy.

6. As a side to a roast dinner repeat

If you had a roast yesterday, you’ve basically got your next dinner sorted already.

Bonus: make it taste like proper pub food

If you want that “this is suspiciously good for leftovers” feeling, use one of these little flavour upgrades:

Mustard + mature cheddar (classic sharpness)

Add parmesan for an extra savoury hit

A pinch of smoked paprika for warmth

A dash of Worcestershire sauce (adds depth) or Henderson's Northern Relish

Blue cheese crumbled in for a rich, punchy sauce

A spoonful of cream cheese to make it extra silky

You don’t need all of them—just one makes it feel intentional.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar is the classic for a reason, especially mature cheddar, but you can mix and match depending on what’s in the fridge.

Great options include:

Mature cheddar (best all-rounder)

Red Leicester (beautiful colour, great flavour)

Gruyère (more “fancy bake” vibes)

Mozzarella (for stretch, but mix with something stronger)

Parmesan (strong, salty, brilliant in small amounts)

Avoid using only mild cheese unless you like a very gentle flavour. Leftover veg needs the boldness.

Storing and using up extra cheese sauce

Made too much sauce? That’s not a problem, that’s future-you being looked after.

Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days

Reheat gently in a pan or microwave

Add a splash of milk and stir if it thickens too much

You can use it on:

Nachos

Pasta

Chips

Cauliflower cheese

Toasties

Anything you want to become a comfort meal

Final thought: leftovers aren’t boring, they’re a shortcut

Leftover vegetables don’t need to be the “meh” part of the meal you eat because you feel you should.

With a quick homemade cheese sauce, they become a proper, cosy, satisfying dish that feels like you planned it all along.

So next time you spot that box of leftover veg lurking in the fridge, don’t sigh… grab the butter, flour and cheese and turn it into something worth eating.

Because no vegetable deserves to die forgotten in a plastic tub.

Wetherspoon (and Other Pubs) Are Going Big on Veganuary – Here’s What to Look Out For

Veganuary has gone from a niche challenge to a full-on January tradition. 

Whether you’re doing the whole month, just cutting back a bit after Christmas, or you’re simply curious about what plant-based pub food tastes like these days, one thing is clear: Wetherspoon and plenty of other UK pub chains are taking Veganuary seriously.

And honestly? It makes sense. January is already a time when people want comfort food and a fresh start. Add in cost-of-living pressures, healthier intentions, and a growing interest in plant-based eating, and pubs have spotted a golden opportunity to offer something new that still feels familiar.

Why Veganuary Has Become a Pub Event (Not Just a Personal Challenge)

Once upon a time, going vegan in January meant surviving on soup, salad, and smugness.

Now? You can walk into a pub, order at the bar (or on an app), and choose from dedicated vegan options that don’t feel like an afterthought.

Veganuary has become popular because it’s:

Low-pressure (it’s only January, not forever)

Easy to try when restaurants and pubs actually provide decent choices

A conversation starter (you’ll always find someone at the table who’s “trying it out”)

More normal than ever thanks to supermarkets, takeaways, and chain restaurants supporting it

And pubs, being pubs, have adapted to what people want: comfort food with a plant-based twist.

Wetherspoon and Veganuary: A Sign of the Times

Wetherspoon has a reputation for being dependable, affordable, and surprisingly broad in menu choice. So when Wetherspoon adds or promotes Veganuary menu items, it’s a strong signal that plant-based eating is no longer “alternative”.

It’s mainstream.

And what makes Wetherspoon especially relevant for Veganuary is that it’s not just a city-centre trend. Wetherspoon pubs are everywhere, so vegan options become accessible even in smaller towns where independent plant-based eateries aren’t always around.

That’s important because Veganuary only works when it’s convenient.

No one wants a lifestyle challenge that requires a 40-minute drive and a £14 bowl of quinoa.

What Kind of Veganuary Specials Are Pubs Offering?

Every chain does it slightly differently, but the trend is clear: they’re leaning into pub classics.

Expect to see vegan-friendly options like:

1. Burgers and “Pub Grub” Classics

The plant-based burger has basically become the gateway meal. You still get the satisfaction of chips, sauces, and fillings, without feeling like you’re missing out.

2. Vegan Curries and Rice Bowls

Curries, chilli-style dishes, and warming bowls are ideal for winter pub menus because they feel hearty and filling.

3. Meat-Free Versions of Traditional Comfort Foods

Think vegan “chicken” styles, meat-free sausages, or plant-based fillets designed to mimic familiar flavours.

4. Lighter Bits and Sides

Not everyone wants a full burger. Some people just want a few vegan sides, chips, salad options, or smaller plates while the rest of the group does their normal thing.

It’s Not Just Wetherspoon – The Whole Pub Scene Has Joined In

Wetherspoon might be the big headline because of scale and price, but they’re far from alone.

Across the UK, many pub chains (and even independents) now create limited-time vegan menus during January. It’s become a seasonal event in the same way that:

Christmas brings festive specials

Summer brings grills, salads and “lighter options”

January brings plant-based comfort food

And this shift is important because it means vegan food is being treated as a normal choice, rather than a niche request that makes the chef sigh.

Why Pub Veganuary Menus Are Actually a Big Deal

It might seem like a small thing, a new burger option, a vegan wrap, a meat-free curry.

But culturally? It’s huge.

When major pub chains offer Veganuary options, it helps:

Make vegan eating more approachable

Support people who want to reduce meat without going “all-in”

Keep groups together (no one wants the vegan friend to have one sad side salad)

Encourage better menu labelling for allergies and preferences

Prove demand is real, which makes menus improve year after year

The more customers order vegan options, the more pubs will invest in better recipes — and that benefits everyone.

The Best Way to Enjoy Veganuary in a Pub (Without Feeling Like You’re Missing Out)

If you’re trying Veganuary, the easiest way to keep it enjoyable is to treat it like an experiment, not a punishment.

A few tips:

Go for dishes that suit vegan food naturally.

Curries, chilli-style meals, veggie-loaded plates, and spicy dishes tend to be more satisfying than something trying too hard to mimic meat.

Don’t be shy about sauces and sides.

A good vegan meal isn’t just the main item — it’s the extras that make it feel “pub-worthy”.

Try something you’d normally order.

If you always get a burger, try the plant-based one. If you usually go for comfort food, choose the vegan version of a classic rather than forcing yourself into a salad.

Pair it properly.

Vegan pub food can be amazing with the right drink choice — a crisp lager, a cider, a soft drink, or even a warming hot drink if you’re doing a daytime pub stop.

Why This Matters Beyond January

Veganuary is great, but the bigger win is what happens after January.

The real progress is when:

Vegan items stay on menus year-round

Meat-free options improve in quality

More pubs offer choices that feel genuinely satisfying

People stop viewing vegan food as “weird” or “extreme”

Even if you only try one or two vegan meals this month, you’re part of that shift. And if Wetherspoon and other UK pub chains keep pushing these options forward, plant-based eating becomes less of a challenge and more of a standard choice.

Final Thoughts: Veganuary Is Getting More Fun (And More Pub-Friendly)

If you’d told someone ten years ago that you could walk into Wetherspoon in January and pick from promoted vegan-friendly menu items, they’d probably have laughed.

Now it’s just… normal.

And that’s the best thing about this whole trend. Veganuary doesn’t have to feel like deprivation anymore. It can feel like what it should be:

A simple, affordable, comforting way to try something different — with chips on the side.

Burns Night at Wetherspoon: FAQ

What is Burns Night and why is it celebrated?

Burns Night is celebrated every year on 25th January to honour Robert Burns, Scotland’s national poet. It’s traditionally marked with a Burns Supper featuring haggis, poetry readings, and a toast to Burns (often with whisky).

Does Wetherspoon do anything special for Burns Night?

Many Wetherspoon pubs mark Burns Night by offering seasonal Scottish-inspired menu items around late January. Availability can vary by location, so it’s worth checking your local pub’s menu nearer the time.

What food is traditionally eaten on Burns Night?

The most traditional Burns Night meal is haggis, neeps and tatties. Neeps are usually swede or turnip, and tatties are mashed potatoes. It’s often served with a rich gravy or whisky sauce.

Can you get haggis at Wetherspoon during Burns Night?

Most Wetherspoon pubs include haggis-based dishes during Burns Night celebrations, but it can vary depending on the pub. Checking the menu in advance is the best way to confirm.

What does haggis taste like?

Haggis is generally rich, savoury, peppery, and well-seasoned. Many people compare it to a spiced stuffing or a strongly flavoured sausage filling, especially when served with mash and gravy.

Is haggis spicy?

Haggis isn’t usually hot-spicy, but it can be peppery and warming. The flavour is bold rather than fiery.

Do you have to drink whisky on Burns Night?

No. Whisky is traditional, but Burns Night is about celebrating Scottish culture and enjoying a meal. You can raise a toast with any drink, including beer, cider, or a soft drink. Some Wetherspoon pubs have a special Scottish ale for Burns Night.

Is Burns Night only for Scottish people?

Not at all. Burns Night is celebrated across the UK and beyond. Plenty of people who aren’t Scottish enjoy the tradition, the food, and the fun of it.

Do you need to book Wetherspoon for Burns Night?

You don’t need to book for Wetherspoon, but Burns Night can be busier in the evening, especially in popular town-centre pubs. If you want a specific table or time, going a little earlier can help.

Is Burns Night food suitable for picky eaters?

It can be. If you’re unsure about haggis, you could share a dish with someone, or pick a more familiar pub option and still enjoy the Burns Night atmosphere.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options for Burns Night?

Some venues offer vegetarian or vegan haggis alternatives, but availability varies by pub and menu. It’s best to check the menu locally if you’re looking for plant-based Burns Night food.

Why is Burns Night popular in January?

Burns Night is popular because it brings a bit of warmth and tradition into a cold month. It’s a great excuse for a comforting meal, a cosy pub visit, and something to look forward to after Christmas.

How can I celebrate Burns Night without doing a full Burns Supper?

You can keep it simple: order a Scottish-inspired meal, read a short Robert Burns poem, and do a quick toast. Even a relaxed pub meal can still feel like a proper celebration.

Is Burns Night good for a cosy date night?

Yes — Burns Night is ideal for a cosy date night. It’s seasonal, a little bit special, and it naturally suits a relaxed meal out with hearty food and a winter drink.

What time should you celebrate Burns Night?

Most people celebrate Burns Night in the evening, but there’s no strict rule. A lunchtime meal, early dinner, or a casual evening pint can all count.

Burns Night at Wetherspoon: Quick Summary

Burns Night is celebrated on 25th January in honour of Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns. Many people mark the occasion with a hearty meal like haggis, neeps and tatties, often paired with a toast (whisky optional!). 

Wetherspoon is a popular choice for Burns Night celebrations thanks to its affordable prices, relaxed atmosphere, and convenient locations across the UK. Menu options can vary by pub, so it’s worth checking your local Wetherspoon nearer the date. Whether you go all-in on tradition or keep it casual, Burns Night is a cosy way to brighten up January.

In fact you can book a room at one of the Wetherlodge hotels attached to some of the pubs in the chain. But in order to keep room rates low you should book them via Wetherspoon.

https://hotels.jdwetherspoon.com

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