Get Ready to Celebrate World Chocolate Day – 7th July

Calling all chocoholics, mark your calendars! World Chocolate Day is coming on 7th July, and it's the perfect excuse to indulge your sweet tooth, try something new, and celebrate one of the world’s favourite treats. 

Whether you're a fan of dark, milk, white, or ruby chocolate, this day is about pure cocoa-fuelled joy. Here's how to get ready to make the most of this delicious celebration.

What Is World Chocolate Day?

World Chocolate Day is believed to mark the anniversary of chocolate’s introduction to Europe in 1550. Since then, chocolate has taken the world by storm – from the ancient rituals of the Aztecs and Mayans to the modern masterpieces crafted by artisan chocolatiers.

Ways to Celebrate World Chocolate Day

1. Indulge in Your Favourite Treats

Treat yourself to your go-to chocolate bars, truffles, brownies, or a hot chocolate. No guilt needed, it’s practically mandatory.

2. Try Something New

Use this day as an excuse to branch out: try a new chocolate brand, a different cocoa percentage, or exotic chocolate flavour combinations (chilli, lavender, sea salt, or bacon, anyone?).

3. Bake a Chocolatey Delight

Why not bake a chocolate cake, gooey brownies, or rich chocolate tarts? It’s a great way to get kids involved or show off your baking prowess.

4. Visit a Local Chocolatier or Café

Support a local business and sample handcrafted delights. Some independent cafés and chocolate shops may even offer special deals or limited-edition treats on the day.

5. Host a Chocolate Tasting Evening

Gather friends and compare different types of chocolate, dark, milk, white, flavoured, or from different origins. Pair with wine, coffee, or whisky for a grown-up twist.

6. Learn About Chocolate’s Origins

Take time to learn about how chocolate is made, the countries it comes from, and the people who grow and harvest cocoa. Consider choosing ethical or Fairtrade chocolate brands that support sustainable practices and fair labour.

7. Get Crafty

For a fun family activity, make chocolate-covered strawberries, chocolate bark with toppings, or homemade truffles.

Share the Chocolate Love

If you’re a blogger, food influencer, or just someone who loves social media, why not share your celebration online? Use hashtags like #WorldChocolateDay, #ChocolateLovers, and #CocoaJoy to connect with others and spread the sweetness.

Gift Ideas for Chocolate Lovers

Looking for a reason to spoil someone (or yourself)? Gift ideas include:

Artisan chocolate hampers

DIY hot chocolate kits

Chocolate-scented candles or bath products

A subscription box of international chocolates

A chocolate-making workshop or tour

Final Chocolaty Thoughts

World Chocolate Day isn’t just about indulging – it’s about appreciating the history, craft, and joy that chocolate brings to our lives. Whether you go all out or keep it simple, take a moment to savour every bite.

How will you celebrate? Let us know in the comments or tag us in your World Chocolate Day snaps!

Celebrating Independence Day Abroad: A Guide for Americans in Britain and Ireland

For Americans living or travelling abroad, especially in Britain and Ireland, celebrating the 4th of July can feel a little… different. 

After all, Independence Day marks the moment the U.S. formally declared its separation from Britain, and you're currently enjoying life right in the heart of that very country. 

But just because you’re away from home doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the spirit of the day. In fact, celebrating the 4th of July abroad can be a fantastic way to share your culture, make new friends, and reflect on what the holiday means to you.

1. Host a Traditional American BBQ

The classic American barbecue is the heart of many 4th of July celebrations. Even if you're living in a small flat or only have access to a local park, you can still grill up burgers, hot dogs, corn on the cob, and all your favourite sides. 

Most supermarkets in the UK and Ireland stock American-style condiments, and you can find American snacks and treats in stores like A Taste of the States, American Fizz, or larger branches of Tesco and ASDA. And there's always Amazon.co.uk

Pro tip: Invite your British and Irish neighbours or colleagues, it's a great way to introduce them to a bit of Americana!

2. Get Patriotic with Decorations

Deck out your home or garden with red, white, and blue decorations. Print out mini flags, string up some bunting, and maybe even dig out that stars-and-stripes t-shirt you packed just in case. While fireworks might not be an option (and could raise a few eyebrows!), sparklers or glow sticks make a fun and safe alternative.

3. Celebrate with Food and Drink

Seek out American diners or bars in your area – cities like London, Manchester, Dublin, and Edinburgh often host themed nights for the 4th of July. Look for events at places like The Diner, Hard Rock Café, Ed’s Easy Diner, or even Five Guys and other burger joints that may offer Independence Day specials.

Alternatively, host your own American-themed dinner with friends. Serve up Southern fried chicken, mac and cheese, root beer floats, and maybe even a homemade apple pie.

4. Connect with Other Expats

Check expat forums, local Facebook groups, or Meetup.com for Independence Day events near you. American expat communities often organise picnics, parties, or meetups to mark the occasion. These events can be a fantastic way to make new friends and feel a little less homesick.

5. Stream a Parade or Fireworks Show

Thanks to time zones, you can easily stream the Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular or Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks after your evening celebrations. Platforms like YouTube, PBS, and NBC often stream these events online. Set up a projector or gather around your laptop with some snacks and enjoy the show.

6. Reflect on the Meaning of the Day

While the fireworks and cookouts are iconic, Independence Day is also a time to reflect on values like freedom, democracy, and community. Take a moment to think about what being American means to you, especially as someone living overseas. You might even write in a journal, call loved ones back home, or share your thoughts on social media.

7. Share Your Culture – Respectfully

Remember, you’re celebrating in a country where this date has a different historical resonance. Keep your celebrations light-hearted and inclusive. It’s a great opportunity to share a little American culture, but it’s also a chance to appreciate your host country and its traditions.

Celebrating the 4th of July in Britain or Ireland can be just as meaningful – and perhaps even more memorable – than being in the States. With a little creativity and a touch of patriotic spirit, you can enjoy the festivities, share your traditions, and make lasting memories with your new friends abroad.

Happy Independence Day – wherever you are in the world! 

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New Pear & Vanilla Yoghurt from Bonne Maman

Bonne Maman is delighted to introduce the latest addition to its indulgent fruit yoghurt collection, Pear & Vanilla. 

This irresistible new flavour pairs luxuriously creamy yoghurt with generous pieces of juicy, ripe pear with a hint of vanilla, creating a perfectly balanced and utterly satisfying dessert treat.

Perfect for a quiet moment of indulgence, enjoyed as part of a leisurely weekend brunch, or shared with friends during a movie night, the new Pear & Vanilla yoghurt, presented in the most beautiful 450g tubs, is the ideal companion.

As with all Bonne Maman yoghurts, Pear & Vanilla is crafted using only the finest natural ingredients, with absolutely no artificial colours, flavours, or sweeteners. 

It joins the brand's much-loved range of fruit yoghurts, including Rhubarb & Strawberry, Raspberry & Blackberry, Violet Fig, and Morello Cherry.

Pear & Vanilla yoghurt is available now at Waitrose and coming soon to Ocado. RRP £3.20.

https://www.bonnemaman.co.uk

I think there needs to be a That's Food and Drink trip to our nearest Waitrose branch!

Brockmans Gin Launches Limited Edition Bottle With Jewellery Artist Ling Chen, Showcasing Striking Fusion of Art and Spirit

Brockmans Gin, the B Corp-certified premium spirit known for defying convention with its Properly Improper ethos, continues its bold creative streak with the launch of an ultra-limited-edition bottle, in collaboration with visionary jewellery artist, Ling Chen, which is priced at £999 and will be available to purchase exclusively at Hedonism Wines in Mayfair.

Based in London, Ling Chen is an emerging voice in the future of conceptual adornment. Chen's debut collection, Rebellion Reimagined, transforms subcultural symbols, such as spikes, chains, slogans, and piercings into standout jewellery pieces. 

Chen's designs explore the tensions between individuality and conformity through a bold deconstruction of punk aesthetics.

Each limited-edition bottle of Brockmans' flagship gin, Brockmans Intensely Smooth, will be adorned with Chen's provocative Punk Sym Rings, a bold, two-part statement piece from her debut collection. The striking sculptural ring is detachable from the bottle, so it can be worn and shown off by the owner.

Chen's Punk Sym Rings have been designed for those who like to challenge convention, with the ring reimagining punk iconography through clever mirrored spiked geometry.

Fierce, rebellious and uncompromising, the limited-edition bottle fuses Brockmans' disruptive attitude with Chen's punk aesthetic. The limited-edition Brockmans Gin bottle will be unveiled for the first time at an exclusive launch at London's Creative Jewellery Hub, Forge, on Tuesday 8th July.

Tastemakers from the worlds of fashion, jewellery, culture, and drinks will be welcomed into a Brockmans Gin takeover where the bottles will be unveiled for the first time, while enjoying Brockmans' high-quality, unmistakably smooth, bold gin, which have earned the brand such a loyal following.

Ling Chen, Jewellery Artist, said: “I am beyond thrilled to be launching my collection at Forge in the centre of the Hatton Garden's Jewellery community with Brockmans Gin. The properly improper philosophy of Brockmans Gin suits my punk aesthetic and my sense of direction which I share with many of the On|Off designers.”

Jean-Dominique Andreu, Managing Director of Brockmans Gin, told That's Food and Drink: “Brockmans Gin and Ling Chen are provocateurs in both our respective worlds. We both challenge convention, celebrate creativity, and take pride in doing things differently. 

"This collaboration was born out of a shared creative vision of bold design, disruptive spirit, and cultural expression. We're proud to be partnering with such a fearless designer and we are excited to unveil these ultra limited-edition bottles.”

This partnership sees the next chapter in Brockmans' visionary cultural partnership with On|Off, the pioneering platform championing innovation in British fashion. The partnership has so far seen the bold British brands collaborate on a series of standout cultural moments, including its London Fashion Week Opening Party at the W Hotel and The Disruptors exhibition at Fitzrovia Chapel.

Lee Lapthorne, the Director of On|Off, has the ability to spot future talent having supported many of our major creative talents at the start of their careers, including JW Anderson (Dior), Gareth Pugh, Christopher Raeburn and Roksanda.

Lee Lapthorne Director of On|Off commented: “As soon as I saw Ling Chen's work, I knew it was something special, outstanding and visually arresting. Her punk-esque attitude aligns perfectly with the ethos and spirit of Brockmans Gin. The sculptural pieces she's created are not only striking additions to the Brockmans bottle but are also wearable — bold, statement accessories that bring attitude and artistry to any personality.”

For more information about Brockmans Gin please visit brockmansgin.com.

The Forge is here https://theforgespace.com

Follow Brockmans Gin on Instagram @BrockmansGin #TheProperlyImproperGin

Follow On|Off on Instagram @onofflondon.

Follow Ling Chen on Instagram @dream.beastear

Heddonism Wines https://hedonism.co.uk

That's Food and Drink believes this combination would make an excellent Christmas present.

Summerdown Launches Premium Hospitality Offering to Elevate Guest Experiences With Award Winning British Peppermint Treats

Summerdown, the famous and award-winning British producer of luxury peppermint treats, is proud to unveil its new hospitality offering, designed to help hospitality venues elevate their guest experience, increase customer satisfaction and enhance their brand value, all with a refreshing local twist.

From dining destination pubs and independent restaurants to B&Bs, boutique hotels and rural cafés, Summerdown's peppermint treats, including their chocolates, restorative herbal teas and body, bath and home fragrance collections, offer a distinctive and indulgent end to a meal, spa treatment or an overnight stay.

A taste of Hampshire – naturally distinctive

At the heart of Summerdown's range is their single-estate Black Mitcham peppermint, grown and distilled on the family farm deep in the Hampshire countryside. This rare heritage variety, brought back to British soil over a quarter century ago, delivers a uniquely aromatic flavour and scent.

Tailored for Hospitality

Summerdown understands the day-to-day challenges of hospitality businesses. That's why their offering is designed to be flexible, scalable and tailored - whether you're running a busy wedding venue, a boutique B&B or a high-end restaurant. 

From after-dinner chocolates to bathroom washes and lotions or guestroom treats, the Summerdown range can be customised to fit your brand and operation with different formats, sizes and refill options available.

“We've seen how something as simple as a peppermint chocolate can become a memorable moment for guests,” said Jo Colman, who has the absolutely splendid title of Chief Mint Officer at Summerdown, to That's Food and Drink. “We're here to support venues looking for thoughtful, locally sourced touches that reflect quality, care and provenance.”

Chef Director at Lime Wood, Luke Holder, told us: "At Lime Wood, only the very best makes it to the table. Summerdown's peppermint thins are the perfect finish to elevate our dining experience, they are refreshing, elegant and unmistakably British. What makes them even more special is the story behind them. They pair beautifully with our after-dinner coffee and leave a good lasting impression."

Premium, sustainable, and dependable

With B Corp certification, regenerative farming practices accredited by the RSPB and a low-impact, closed-loop approach, Summerdown's sustainability ethos aligns with the values of today's environmentally conscious hospitality sector. 

Add to this a dedicated, responsive team and a track record of excellence and Summerdown stands as a trusted partner for businesses who want to offer their guests something extraordinary and authentically British.

To find out how Summerdown can enhance your guest offering, to request samples or to explore partnership opportunities, visit www.summerdown.com/pages/hospitality or contact sales@summerdown.com

Azzurra X Sipsmith Launch 'Best of British Summer' Terrace With Wimbledon-Inspired Installation

Azzurra, the acclaimed Italian seafood restaurant on Sloane Street, London, is partnering with Sipsmith Gin to debut a vibrant 'Best of British Summer' terrace experience. 

Running through to the end of August, the collaboration will transform Azzurra's terrace into a celebration of British summer traditions infused with the Italian Riviera. 

The terrace will open with a Wimbledon-inspired installation, featuring Sipsmith's iconic green 'phone booth, a nod to the brand's London heritage. 

Guests can enjoy a selection of four exclusive cocktails specially crafted for the occasion, each highlighting Sipsmith's artisanal gin and Azzurra's Italian flair, the Strawberry & Basil Smash, a refreshing twist on the traditional smash style mixing Sipsmith Very Berry Gin with muddled strawberries, fragrant basil leaves and a bright hit of citrus; a Frozen Grapefruit & Mint Cup blending Sipsmith Lemon Drizzle Gin with cooling cucumber, mint, zesty citrus and icy grapefruit, the elegant Wimbledon Clover Club a silky concoction of Sipsmith gin shaken with sweet strawberries, tart lemon and a velvety foamer and the Sipsmith Spritz, marrying Sipsmith Orange Zest Gin with tart rhubarb and an effervescent splash of processo. 

As the season progresses, the terrace transforms into a Mediterranean retreat, evoking the sun‑soaked ambiance of the Amalfi Coast and offering guests a unique alfresco dining experience that marries the best of British summer rituals with coastal Italian charm.

https://azzurrarestaurant.co.uk | @azzurra

Creating a Safe Haven: Why Your Pub, Restaurant or Hotel Should Welcome Vulnerable People

In today’s society, businesses have a vital role to play beyond profit-making. Hospitality venues such as pubs, restaurants, and hotels are more than just places to eat, drink, and sleep, they are community hubs. 

That’s why creating a safe space for vulnerable people isn’t just a moral obligation, it’s a smart, compassionate, and forward-thinking business move.

Who Are Vulnerable People?

Vulnerable people can include:

Elderly individuals

People with physical or learning disabilities

Those living with mental health conditions

Individuals experiencing homelessness or financial hardship

Children and young people at risk

Victims of domestic abuse

People struggling with addiction or recovery

Vulnerability can be temporary or long-term, visible or invisible. What matters is how we, as business owners and staff, respond to it.

Why It Matters

1. Community Responsibility

Your business is part of the community. Being inclusive and considerate helps build a positive local reputation and demonstrates a sense of social responsibility that today’s customers value highly.

2. Brand Loyalty and Goodwill

People remember how they were treated in moments of difficulty. A welcoming atmosphere that extends kindness to everyone, especially those in need, generates loyalty, positive word of mouth, and customer retention.

3. Legal and Ethical Duty

Under the Equality Act 2010, businesses must make reasonable adjustments to accommodate people with disabilities and must not discriminate. Being proactive in supporting vulnerable guests not only keeps you compliant but also builds a more just and equal environment.

4. Staff Morale and Purpose

Teams feel more motivated when they know their workplace upholds strong values. Staff training around safeguarding, inclusivity and awareness equips your team with the confidence to act compassionately and professionally.

How to Make Your Venue a Safe Space

Train Your Staff

Safeguarding training: Teach staff how to recognise the signs of abuse, distress, or exploitation.

Mental health awareness: Encourage empathy and understanding, especially when a customer seems confused, anxious, or upset.

Disability confidence: Ensure your team is prepared to assist people with visible and invisible disabilities.

Adjust Your Environment

Install ramps, wide doorways and accessible toilets.

Use clear signage and offer menus in large print or braille.

Provide quiet spaces for people who are overwhelmed or overstimulated.

Implement Safe Place Schemes

Consider registering your venue as a “Safe Place” under local council schemes that offer refuge for people in distress.

Display stickers and signage showing that your business is a recognised safe haven.

Partner with Local Services

Build links with local charities, domestic abuse support organisations, and mental health services. You may be able to offer temporary sanctuary, warm spaces, or even meals in times of crisis.

Embrace Inclusive Policies

Have clear guidelines for handling incidents involving vulnerable customers. That might include offering to call support services, ensuring someone isn’t left alone if intoxicated or distressed, or helping a lost child reconnect with family.

Real Impact, Real Rewards

A woman fleeing domestic violence, an autistic man struggling with a noisy crowd, a teenager who feels unsafe walking home, your venue could be the one place that offers help and hope. That’s not just good business; it’s a human triumph.

As the cost of living bites and social inequalities widen, kindness becomes currency, and your pub, hotel or restaurant could be exactly where that kindness is served.

Would you like to show that your business cares?

Start by making small changes—and let your community know that everyone, no matter their situation, is welcome at your door.

Why You Should Run Regular Disability Audits for Your Food, Drink or Retail Premises

Is your business truly accessible to everyone? It’s easy to assume that a step-free entrance or a single disabled toilet is enough, but genuine inclusivity goes far deeper. That’s where regular disability audits come in.

Why this blogpost? My wife and I have found a new, very small pub, which doesn't have a toilet with disabled access, the toilets being up a steep flight of stairs.

Whether you run a café, pub, restaurant, shop or market stall, taking a proactive approach to accessibility isn’t just good practice, it’s a legal, commercial, and ethical must.

What Is a Disability Audit?

A disability audit is a thorough assessment of how accessible your premises and services are to disabled customers, staff, and visitors. It examines everything from physical access and signage to staff training and online services.

Importantly, a disability audit should be an ongoing process, not a one-off box-ticking exercise.

Why You Need to Conduct Them Regularly

1. Stay Legally Compliant

Under the Equality Act 2010, you are legally required to make “reasonable adjustments” to ensure disabled people are not disadvantaged. This includes access, layout, services, and communication methods. Regular audits help you spot issues before they become complaints—or legal challenges.

2. Accessibility Can Deteriorate

Buildings age, furniture gets rearranged, and maintenance slips through the cracks. A door that once opened smoothly may now stick. A handrail might be loose. A lift could be malfunctioning. Regular audits catch these issues early and prevent unintentional exclusion.

3. Needs and Expectations Evolve

Disability awareness and best practices are constantly developing. What was once considered acceptable might now fall short. Keeping up with current standards, such as installing hearing loops or offering neurodivergent-friendly spaces, ensures your venue doesn’t fall behind.

4. Improve Customer Experience

A well-executed audit leads to tangible improvements: clearer signage, accessible menus, easier navigation, trained staff. All of these enhance the customer journey—not just for disabled people, but for families, older guests, and anyone with temporary limitations (e.g. broken limbs or pushchairs).

5. Demonstrate Genuine Inclusivity

Customers are increasingly values-driven. Showing that you’ve gone beyond minimum compliance to create a welcoming space for all people earns loyalty, trust and positive word of mouth—online and off.

What Should a Disability Audit Cover?

A proper disability audit should look at:

Entrances and exits (are they step-free, clearly marked, automatic?)

Internal layout (can wheelchair users move freely? are aisles clutter-free?)

Toilets and changing facilities (are they truly accessible, not used for storage?)

Signage and lighting (is everything clearly visible and easy to understand?)

Menus and pricing displays (are there alternatives for blind or visually impaired people?)

Staff training (do staff know how to assist, communicate, and offer help without patronising?)

Emergency procedures (can disabled people evacuate safely?)

Online accessibility (is your website compatible with screen readers? Can people pre-book accessible seating or spaces?)

How to Get Started

Do an internal review using checklists available from the Equality and Human Rights Commission or local authorities.

Hire an accessibility consultant for a professional audit.

Involve disabled people, nothing beats real-life experience. Consider mystery shoppers with different accessibility needs.

Document and act on the findings, an audit only matters if you implement the recommended improvements.

Schedule regular follow-ups (at least once a year) and update your team accordingly.

Accessibility Is Good Business

Making your food, drink, or retail space more accessible isn’t just about ramps and regulations. It’s about showing that every customer matters. It’s about being part of a fairer society. And yes—it’s also about growing your reach. The spending power of disabled people and their households in the UK is over £274 billion a year, often referred to as the Purple Pound.

By running regular disability audits, you’re not just complying, you’re competing smarter, serving better, and creating a space where everyone feels welcome.

Ready to take the next step?

Start your audit today—and let your customers know your business is working hard to be a place where access is a right, not a favour.

Why Water Bowls for Dogs at Cafés, Pubs and Shops Might Do More Harm Than Good

Keeping Pets Safe in Public Spaces.

It’s a common sight in dog-friendly cafés, pubs, and garden centres across the UK: a communal water bowl placed outside the entrance or tucked near a table, inviting thirsty dogs to take a drink. 

On the surface, it seems like a kind and considerate gesture for our four-legged friends, especially during the summer months. But while well-intentioned, shared water bowls in public places could pose hidden health risks to dogs.

The Danger of Shared Water Bowls

Dogs don’t just drink from bowls, they slobber, drool, and sometimes even dip their noses or tongues deep into the water. 

Unfortunately, this can create a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and viruses. When multiple dogs use the same water bowl, there's a real risk of cross-infection.

Canine Distemper: A Real and Rising Threat

One of the more serious infections that could potentially spread through shared water bowls is Canine distemper. This highly contagious viral disease affects a dog’s respiratory, gastrointestinal and nervous systems. Though vaccination has made it less common, outbreaks still occur in the UK, particularly in areas with low vaccination rates.

Distemper is spread through aerosol droplets and saliva, making communal water bowls a potential vector. If an infected dog drinks from a bowl, then another dog laps up the same water shortly after, the virus could be transmitted.

Other Illnesses to Watch Out For

In addition to distemper, dogs can pick up other infectious diseases and parasites through communal water bowls, including:

Parvovirus – a highly contagious and potentially fatal virus.

Kennel cough – easily transmitted in places where dogs congregate.

Giardia – a parasite that can live in contaminated water and cause diarrhoea.

Leptospirosis – a bacterial infection spread through urine-contaminated water, which can also infect humans. 

Hygiene Concerns and Unmonitored Bowls

Many establishments leave bowls unattended for hours, without regular cleaning or refilling. Dirt, food crumbs, or even faecal matter from muddy paws can end up in the water, creating a perfect environment for bacteria to thrive.

Also, during hot weather, stagnant water can warm up quickly, another ideal breeding ground for harmful organisms.

What Responsible Establishments Can Do

Offer water on request: Instead of communal bowls, cafés and pubs could provide clean, fresh water in sanitised containers upon request.

Encourage owners to bring their own bowls: Foldable or travel bowls are widely available and easy to carry.

Use no-touch dispensers: Some dog parks and pet-friendly venues have started using dog-friendly fountains or push-pedal dispensers to limit contamination.

What Dog Owners Should Do

Always carry your own bowl and fresh water when out with your dog.

Avoid letting your dog drink from bowls in public spaces unless you’re confident they’re regularly cleaned.

Make sure your dog’s vaccinations, especially against distemper and parvovirus, are up-to-date.

We all want to create a welcoming environment for dogs and their humans. But when it comes to something as simple as a bowl of water, it’s vital to weigh good intentions against potential risks. 

By being aware of the dangers and taking simple precautions, we can keep our beloved pets safe while still enjoying dog-friendly days out.

Why this blogpost? My wife and I went out for a meal the other day and noticed that an establishment had a dog water bowl that looked absolutely filthy.