Acclaimed Sri Lankan restaurant launches 5-course tasting menu

Colombo Kitchen, the famed Sri Lankan restaurant in Worcester Park and Putney, London, is launching its inaugural five-course tasting menu, offering a culinary journey reflecting the rich flavour of Sri Lanka. 

This menu, available alongside their a la carte menu, features dishes such as:

Grilled Prawns in Lime and Coconut Salsa served with gotukola: Succulent prawns marinated and grilled to perfection, served with a tangy lime and coconut salsa and gotukola (a Sri Lankan green).

Thali with assorted Curries: A traditional Sri Lankan platter featuring a selection of the restaurant's favorite curries, providing a diverse tasting experience.

Dubai Chocolate Pistachio Biscuit Pudding: A delightful dessert inspired by the viral Dubai chocolate and pistachio combination, reimagined in a traditional Sri Lankan chocolate biscuit pudding.

This tasting menu is a testament to the culinary expertise of their Executive Chef Sylvia Perera, who was honored as National Chef of the Year at the Asian Restaurant Awards 2024. Additionally, the restaurant's renowned lamprais received a prestigious 2-star Great Taste Award from the Guild of Fine Food in 2024.

Chef Perera took inspiration from her coastal upbringing in Negombo, where she would buy the freshest seafood from local fishermen, an experience affectionately known as "Lellama,". 

Chef Sylvia says “This menu evokes cherished memories of growing up in Negombo - a town celebrated for its seafood. During my time there, I developed a deep understanding of how delicately seafood should be handled and honed in the skill of selecting the best seafood and preparing them to perfection.” 

Colombo Kitchen's new tasting menu offers an opportunity to experience the depth and diversity of Sri Lankan flavours, skilfully crafted by an award-winning chef. Available in both branches in Worcester Park and Putney, throughout the week with three days advance notice. Book online at www.colombokitchen.co.uk.

EHL Insights Report: Food and Well-Being 2025

"Evolving food attitudes shaping the future of health, hospitality and education"

EHL is justifiably proud to announce the launch of the Food and Well-being 2025 report. The report is written with the contribution of Intesa Sanpaolo, with the aim of collaborating on research, industry and education projects to drive innovation in the international hospitality sector.

The Food and Well-being 2025 report, accompanied by a host of related activities, has been carefully crafted for the global hospitality industry from restaurateurs and hotel operators to large-scale food service players, as well as related stakeholders such as educators and policy makers.

Based on the future of food and its critical intersection with well-being and hospitality, this report provides thought leadership and actionable strategies to empower industry stakeholders wanting to redefine the food landscape. 

Written by EHL experts and professors, and led by EHL Innovation Hub, it is designed to offer a wide range of insights and examples of evolving food trends based on in-depth interviews and research analysis from the field.

The Food & Wellbeing Report shows how research-backed insights are cornerstones of the EHL Innovation Hub, guiding innovators and industry leaders. By examining both short and long-term trends, this report provides the tools to stay ahead, proactively shape the future, and drive business-ready innovation in hospitality and related industries.

Insights from the report:

Food as the cornerstone of well-being: Evolving beyond its traditional role as a source of sustenance, food nurtures not only the body but also mental health and the fabric of community. The concept of Food Well-Being (FWB) captures this multifaceted impact, highlighting food's role in bringing pleasure, purpose, health, sustainability and a sense of belonging into our daily lives. This premise becomes a key definer of the modern hospitality industry.

Consumer trends and the conscious shift: Consumers are making more mindful food choices, prioritizing health, transparency and sustainability. This shift is impacting hospitality offers, from personalized nutrition to plant-forward menus and tech-enhanced dining experiences. Understanding these new demands is pivotal across sectors, from industry to education, to inform the way businesses innovate and schools train future professionals.

Hospitality’s role in promoting well-being: Through innovative practices like planetary diet offers, social eating initiatives or just small shifts in their existing offering, hospitality providers can create environments that support both hedonic (pleasure-driven) and eudaimonic (purpose-driven) well-being. The report's findings uphold the growing importance of cross-disciplinary, continuous education to meet these expectations effectively.

Challenges and opportunities: While the rise of the conscious consumer signals progress, it also presents challenges, such as the increased spread of misinformation, systemic inequalities in access to healthy food and the complexities of sustainable food sourcing. Innovations in technology and education, alongside stronger commitments to shared responsibility, offer pathways to address these issues.

Opportunities for stakeholders: For hospitality businesses – developing new practices and offers in collaboration with innovators, nutritionists and local communities. For chefs and operators - leading through culinary innovation, advocating for nutritious, sustainable options without compromising on taste or experience. For policy makers and educators – creating curricula that align with the principles of well-being and sustainability.

The activities

EHL and Intesa Sanpaolo have incorporated industry and school activities in the Oltrepò Pavese region of Italy for promoting key messages from the report findings. These activities will bring together visionary entrepreneurs, schools and local companies, serving both as a launchpad for the report and a catalyst for igniting conversations about new industry roles and forward-thinking food solutions.

http://www.ehlgroup.com

A Beginner’s Guide to Growing Your Own Herbs and Vegetables

Growing your own herbs and vegetables is a rewarding and cost-effective way to enjoy fresh, organic produce right from your garden, balcony, or windowsill. 

Whether you have a spacious garden or just a small space to work with, this beginner’s guide will help you get started on your home-growing journey.

Why Grow Your Own?

There are a number of benefits to growing your own herbs and vegetables, including:

Freshness – Enjoy the unbeatable taste of homegrown produce.

Health benefits – Avoid pesticides and grow organic, nutrient-rich food.

Cost savings – Reduce grocery bills by growing essential kitchen staples.

Sustainability – Lower your carbon footprint by reducing food miles.

Therapeutic value – Gardening is a great way to relieve stress and connect with nature.

Choosing the Right Location

The success of your home garden depends on where you plant your herbs and vegetables. Consider these key factors:

Sunlight – Most herbs and vegetables require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

Soil quality – Good drainage and nutrient-rich soil are essential for healthy plants.

Space availability – Whether you have a garden, balcony, or windowsill, choose the right containers or beds to maximise growth.

Protection from pests – Use natural methods to keep insects and animals at bay, keeping chemicals to a minimum. 

Easy Herbs and Vegetables for Beginners

Herbs

Herbs are some of the easiest plants to grow and require minimal maintenance. Here are some beginner-friendly choices:

Basil – Perfect for salads, pasta, and pesto, basil thrives in warm conditions.

Mint – Grows rapidly and is great for teas, cocktails, and garnishes.

Parsley – A versatile herb that adds flavour to many dishes.

Rosemary – A hardy perennial that adds a fragrant touch to roasts and soups.

Thyme – Low-maintenance and perfect for seasoning meats and vegetables.

Vegetables

If you’re new to vegetable gardening, start with these easy-to-grow varieties:

Lettuce – Grows quickly and can be harvested multiple times.

Tomatoes – Great for containers and ideal for fresh salads and sauces.

Radishes – Fast-growing and perfect for adding crunch to dishes.

Carrots – Easy to grow in loose, well-drained soil.

Courgettes – Prolific growers that provide a bountiful harvest.

Essential Gardening Tools

To make your gardening experience smoother, invest in these basic tools:

Trowel – For planting and transplanting.

Hand fork – Useful for breaking up soil and weeding.

Watering can or hose – Essential for keeping plants hydrated.

Gardening gloves – To protect your hands from dirt and thorns.

Pots or containers – Ideal for small-space gardening.

Planting and Caring for Your Herbs and Vegetables

Prepare the Soil – Use well-draining compost or nutrient-rich soil for best results.

Plant at the Right Time – Follow seasonal guidelines for each herb and vegetable.

Water Regularly, but sensibly – Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Feed Your Plants – Use organic fertilisers or compost to nourish your plants.

Harvest Often – Regular harvesting encourages new growth and prolongs the plant’s lifespan.

Dealing with Common Gardening Challenges

Pests and Diseases

Use companion planting (e.g., planting marigolds with tomatoes to deter pests).

Make natural insect sprays from garlic or neem oil.

Keep plants healthy to reduce vulnerability to diseases.

Weather Conditions

Use mulch to retain soil moisture in hot weather.

Provide shade for delicate plants during heatwaves.

Cover crops with fleece to protect them from frost.

Final Thoughts

Starting your own herb and vegetable garden is an enjoyable and fulfilling endeavour. With a little patience and the right approach, you’ll soon be enjoying the fruits (and vegetables) of your labour.

 Whether you have a garden, patio, or just a sunny windowsill, there’s always a way to bring fresh, homegrown produce into your kitchen.

Have you started growing your own food? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.

Light & Refreshing Spring Salads for Warmer Days

As the days grow longer and the temperature rises, heavy winter meals give way to light, refreshing dishes that celebrate the vibrancy of spring. 

Salads are the perfect way to embrace the season, combining crisp greens, fresh vegetables, and bright dressings for a delicious and nutritious meal. 

Whether you’re looking for a side dish or a main course, these spring salad ideas are packed with flavour and seasonal goodness.

1. Spring Greens & Citrus Salad

This salad bursts with the fresh flavours of citrus and peppery greens, making it a perfect light lunch or dinner starter.

Ingredients:

100g mixed spring greens (rocket, watercress, baby spinach)

1 orange, peeled and sliced

1 grapefruit, peeled and segmented

50g crumbled feta cheese

30g walnuts, toasted

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tbsp honey

1 tsp Dijon mustard

Salt and black pepper to taste

Method:

In a large bowl, combine the spring greens, orange slices, and grapefruit segments.

In a small jar, mix olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, then shake well.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.

Top with crumbled feta and toasted walnuts.

2. Asparagus & Pea Salad with Lemon Dressing

A true celebration of spring produce, this salad is fresh, zesty, and wonderfully green.

Ingredients:

200g asparagus, trimmed and blanched

100g sugar snap peas, sliced

100g fresh or frozen peas, blanched

50g radishes, thinly sliced

2 tbsp lemon juice

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp honey

1 tsp wholegrain mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

20g fresh mint, chopped

50g goat’s cheese, crumbled

Method:

Arrange the asparagus, sugar snap peas, peas, and radishes on a large plate.

In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, honey, mustard, salt, and pepper.

Drizzle the dressing over the vegetables and toss lightly.

Sprinkle with fresh mint and goat’s cheese before serving.

3. Strawberry & Avocado Spinach Salad

Sweet strawberries and creamy avocado create a delightful contrast in this beautifully simple salad.

Ingredients:

150g baby spinach

100g fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

1 ripe avocado, sliced

50g toasted almonds

50g crumbled blue cheese or feta

2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp honey

Salt and black pepper to taste

Method:

In a large salad bowl, combine the spinach, strawberries, and avocado.

In a small jar, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently.

Top with toasted almonds and crumbled cheese before serving.

4. Radish, Cucumber & Herb Salad

A crisp and refreshing salad that is perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or fish.

Ingredients:

1 cucumber, thinly sliced

100g radishes, thinly sliced

20g fresh dill, chopped

20g fresh chives, chopped

1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 tsp honey

Salt and black pepper to taste

Method:

In a large bowl, mix cucumber, radishes, dill, and chives.

In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.

Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss well.

Serve immediately for a crisp, refreshing side dish.

Final Thoughts

Spring is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, light meals that highlight the best seasonal produce. Whether you’re in the mood for a citrusy, sweet, or herby salad, these recipes will bring a burst of freshness to your table. Enjoy them as a side dish, a light main, or a delightful addition to your springtime picnics and barbecues!

What’s your favourite spring salad? Let us know in the comments below!

Say Hello to Lost Sheep Coffee's New Iced Caramel Latte!

If you love good coffee but you always seem to be short on time, then this is for you!

Lost Sheep Coffee is taking ready-to-drink coffee to the next level with the launch of its New Iced Caramel Latte, the latest addition to the brand's award-winning range of Aussie-style craft coffee cans, made by speciality coffee roasters who really know their beans.

It's a natural source of caffeine, It's the perfect, ultimate combination of smooth speciality coffee and deliciously sweet caramel, all wrapped up in one perfect can for drinking anywhere, anytime.

Here's why you need to try it:

It's made by proper coffee roasters: So this is most certainly NOT your average coffee in a can. With over a million speciality coffees brewed since 2012, Lost Sheep Coffee has perfected the art of great-tasting coffee. It's the highest quality coffee you will find in can and no fancy café is required.

You'll be able to taste the difference: Made with Lost Sheep's signature Get To The Hopper Coffee, a dreamy blend of Colombian and Brazilian Arabica beans,  this Iced Caramel Latte is anything but basic. You should expect rich, creamy flavour with a touch of gorgeously sweet butterscotch goodness.

And what's more, it is fully traceable from origin to can: Lost Sheep doesn't just talk the talk. Every single can is made with coffee beans that are 100% traceable from origin so you can feel good knowing exactly where your coffee comes from.

All the sweetness, less of the guilt: Craving something sweet?  With less than half the sugar of the leading brand, the new Iced Latte offers all the caramel sweetness you love but with less than 80 calories a can, so can treat yourself without any of the guilt.

Brimming with the good stuff: Made with silky skimmed milk, it's also a brilliant source of calcium plus vitamins A, D and B12, also.

Lost Sheep Coffee founder, Stuart Wilson says: “At Lost Sheep, we're strong believers that no-one should have to compromise on great quality coffee. Our Iced Coffee Cans are made for everyone, serving up a craft coffee experience wherever you are, at whatever time of the day."

He went on to say: "For us, it's all about quality. While other RTD brands use instant coffee or low-quality beans, we brew only the best, using freshly ground, speciality-grade beans that are hand-roasted to perfection and traceable from origin to can. The result is real, Aussie-style sweet coffee in the convenience of a can. It's a genuine game-changer.”

New Lost Sheep Iced Caramel Latte Cans are available from www.lostsheepcoffee.com and Amazon.co.uk from March 2025 with more stockists to follow. RRP £2.30 for a 250ml can.

 Did you know Frappuccino Caramel Iced Coffee from the leading ready-to-drink coffee brand has 9.7g of sugar per 100ml / Lost Sheep Iced Caramel Latte has 4.5 g of sugar per 100ml? And that's good to know!

Introducing Bonne Maman Delicious Tartlets

Why not curl up, relax and treat yourself to some delicious Bonne Maman Tartlets? 

These are crisp little pastries, that are deliciously filled with tasty fruit or caramel compote. 

Now available in three varieties – fresh and zesty Citron, fruity Framboise and luscious Chocolate Caramel – Tartlets offer a simple little moment of indulgence - perfect with a morning cup of coffee, ideal for an afternoon teatime break or an on the go treat! 

Made using only the finest ingredients, Tartlets are crafted from a traditional French recipe, giving a crisp pastry base topped with a delectable melt in your mouth filling – a scrumptious balance of flavour and texture.

Individually wrapped, Bonne Maman Tartlets are available in packs of nine from Sainsbury's stores and online from Ocado at £2.00rrp. 

For further information, tips and recipes see www.bonnemaman.co.uk, like them on Facebook @BonneMamanUK and follow on Instagram @bonnemaman_uk

Range availability in store may vary by location.

Bonne Maman Cakes & Biscuits contain no artificial colourings or flavourings.

The UK range includes:

Madeleines: La Madeleine All Butter, Chocolate, Lemon and Les Petites Madeleines

Cakes: Chocolate Sweet Hearts, Fruit Cake, Loaf Cake, new Mini Chocolate Muffins, new Mini Vanilla Muffins, Marble Cake and new Chocolate Cake.

Biscuits: new Tartelettes Citron, Tartelettes Framboise and Tartelettes Chocolate Caramel, Mini Cookies, Chocolate Filled Biscuits, Chocolate Hazelnut Biscuits, Dark Chocolate Sablés and Milk Chocolate Sablés 

Stay one step ahead of hay fever with hay-band

Put off eating by irritating hay fever? Then you should apply some pressure! 

The principles of ancient Chinese acupressure have been used for centuries to help treat the symptoms of allergy, including hay fever.

hay-band, a top family favourite, works by applying pressure to the acupressure point on either arm, called the LI-11 point.

Acupressure is believed to increase the flow of natural energy through the stimulation of various pressure points and in doing so, help unblock energy pathways to the nose and throat, and promote your well-being.

The LI-11 point can be found at the end of the crease at the elbow. Once located, simply slide a hay-band into position so that the button faces inwards over the pressure point, with the bands passing either side of the elbow.

The band is fast-acting and may be worn on either arm or if symptoms are acute, one can be worn on both arms. Drug-free, natural and discreet, hay-band can also be worn as a preventative.

There's no drowsiness or other unwanted side-effects and the band is suitable for adults and children over the age of three, but not suitable for use during pregnancy.

hay-band costs £13.09 per (they are washable) band and is available online from hay-band.co.uk.

Raise a Glass to Mum and Mother Nature with Candover Brook Rosé NV

This Mothering Sunday, 30th March, you can celebrate and honour the remarkable women in your life with a gift that embodies sophistication, thoughtfulness, and natural beauty. 

Candover Brook Rosé NV, an award-winning English Sparkling Wine, is the ultimate expression of love and appreciation.

Crafted in Hampshire's beautiful and idyllic Candover Valley, Candover Brook is a testament to the art of winemaking in harmony with Mother Nature. 

Nurtured in chalk-rich soils and made with a meticulous commitment to regenerative farming, this sparkling rosé celebrates conscious indulgence and refined luxury.

With its delicate blush hue, fine effervescence, and notes of wild strawberry, cranberry, and toasted brioche, Candover Brook Rosé NV delivers an enchanting sensory experience. A balance of crisp freshness and velvety smoothness makes it the ultimate toast to Mum and a thoughtful, eco-conscious alternative to chocolates and flowers.

Candover Brook is more than a vineyard, it is a legacy of sustainability and stewardship. Every bottle contributes to the protection of local biodiversity, including the endangered, white-clawed crayfish, the vineyard's emblem and a symbol of its dedication to preserving the natural world.

Luxurious gift boxes make your gift even more special, and handwritten notes are available to ensure your Mother's Day gesture is as personal as it is elegant.

Candover Brook Rosé NV is available for purchase online at www.candoverbrook.co.uk (£38 per bottle).

This Mothering Sunday, raise a glass to the extraordinary women in your life with a wine as exceptional as they are. A sparkling tribute to Mum and Mother Nature in every sip.

Longer days, lighter bites: Premium Country Pub Collection welcomes spring with new seasonal dishes

Spring is now blooming, and with it, an exciting menu has arrived at the Premium Country Pub Collection, bringing fresh seasonal flavours, vibrant ingredients, and irresistible dishes to the table. 

Famed for its collection of the finest country pubs set in some of the UKs most breathtaking locations, Premium Country Pub Collection provides the perfect setting for every occasion.  

Whether you are celebrating a milestone birthday with a three-course meal, toasting an anniversary with a bottle of chilled champagne, or simply catching up with friends over barista-made coffee, these charming venues offer a truly idyllic escape. 

As the evenings grow longer and the sunshine lingers a little later, the new and refreshed menu is bursting with vibrant ingredients offering a range of crisp, nourishing salads, tantalising vegan delights and sumptuous sharing boards. And now, with warmer days, guests can enjoy alfresco dining at its finest, unwinding in unsoaked terraces and scenic gardens.  

One of the standout additions is the new Signature Sunday Sharing Roast – a decadent sharing experience for two, showcasing the finest cuts of meat and all the traditional, delicious trimmings for an indulgent Sunday treat. 

Also coming soon is a refreshed drinks menu, featuring new additions to the Collection’s already extensive champagne and wine list, sweet and zesty cocktails perfect for summer evenings and a whole range of ‘mocktails’, made using the finest alcohol-free spirits. 

Said Paul Smith, who is Operations Director at the Premium Country Pub Collection: “We’ve worked very closely with our talented chefs to curate the perfect menu for the warmer seasons that blends classic comfort with fresh, exciting flavours.  From indulgent traditional favourites such as pan-fried sea bass fillets and 30 day-aged 10oz rib-eye steak, to decadent desserts, complete with an enticing drinks menu, every plate has been crafted to complement the premium dining experience we pride ourselves on.” 

“Our pubs are more than just places to eat; they are destinations for unforgettable moments. The new menu embodies our passion for delivering the most delicious plates in stunning surroundings, so whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or unwinding after a long countryside walk, you know you’re in the right place. 

“On behalf of the whole team, I’d like to extend a warm welcome to both familiar faces and new guests to experience the magic of the latest menu themselves – we can’t wait to welcome you!” 

Premium Country Pub Collection has also recently launched its new “Rewards by Premium Country Pub Collection” App, offering enticing loyalty rewards and exclusive offers for guests. From a complimentary glass of Moet champagne just for signing up to an entire bottle of Veuve Clicquot upon collecting all stamps, guests can be well and truly spoiled. 

To explore the full menu and sign up to the mailing list to be the first to receive updates, please visit

premiumcountrypubcollection.co.uk  

NEW Limited Edition Tormek T-1 Florentine Vibrant

With Easter bringing family feasts and roast dinners, having sharp knives is absolutely vital. 

A well-sharpened knife ensures precision when carving roasts, slicing fresh bread and cakes, or prepping vegetables, making cooking smoother, safer, and more enjoyable. 

The NEW Limited Edition Tormek T-1 Florentine Vibrant is the result of an exciting collaboration between Tormek and Florentine Kitchen Knives. 

Featuring a playfully colourful handle designed by Tomer Botner, founder of the Barcelona-based knife-making studio, this edition brings a striking contrast to the sharp, industrial aesthetic of the Tormek T-1 - making it a standout feature in any kitchen.  

Each handle is randomly assembled from a shared colour palette, meaning no two machines are identical - as each one has its own unique "fingerprint." 

RRP £ 370 from shop.tormek.co.uk

And it has an eight-year warranty, too.

Also available in the range - Zinc Gray RRP £335, Carbon Black RRP £335 and Morakniv 1891 RRP £350.