Public Service Announcement: after a long, cold, dark winter, and a slow-to-star spring, the summer is finally here - and if the recent bank holiday sunshine excitement is anything to go by, city dwellers will be booking the best London rooftops imminently. Here at Marie Claire UK, we've rounded up our pick of the best rooftop bars offering everything from cosy corners to stunning views, whether you need space for six or unforgettable food.

If you're looking for a hangout to enjoy a cocktail or two with a delicious small plate, then look no further than our roundup of the best rooftop bars in London. It's time to head skywards.

Best Rooftop Bars in London

Aqua Kyoto x Beluga Vodka Japanese Rooftop Bar

Tucked away just a minute's walk from Oxford Circus tube station, Aqua Kyoto boasts one of the prettiest and sun-soaked rooftop bars in London. This summer, the iconic Japanese restaurant is partnering with Beluga Vodka to offer a yacht-inspired deck on the 5th floor, serving signature cocktails and succulent sushi boats. Order the mouthwatering 12-piece sashimi set from the set lunch menu, and wash it down with a Kuro Pearl cocktail, which blends matcha, padrón pepper and yuzu. Delicious.

For more information, visit www.standardhotels.com.

The Rooftop at The Standard

The Standard rooftop bar is one of the best places to be in the summer. From the 11th floor hotspot, you're treated to unparalleled views of King's Cross and central London and can enjoy spicy margaritas on tap as well as delicious bar snacks from the Michelin-starred team at Decimo. Book a spot ASAP.

For more information, visit www.standardhotels.com.

Seabird Rooftop Restaurant, Southwark

If you're looking for a rooftop bar and restaurant with incredible panoramic views of the city, an impressive food and drinks menu and some serious Gatsby decor, look no further than Seabird. Head to the top floor of The Hoxton and wrap up on the rooftop with the Rubis cocktail in hand (trust us, it's divine). Surrounded by lush plants, glittering fairy lights and a beautiful outlook of the capital, you'll be hard pressed to find a better skyline spot for a tipple and delicious Portugese and Spanish influenced plates.

Sample some of the freshest fish dishes - start with a selection of fifteen delicious sweet or salty oysters (they're the proud owners of London's longest oyster list) from the UK to France to Portugal. Then dive into a number of small plates - the mouthwatering octopus roll and heirloom tomatoes are highly recommended. And no visit is complete without tucking into a sensational seafood main, whether you're tempted by the Cornish plaice or mackerel. Treat yourself to a dessert cocktail as you sit back and enjoy the lively atmosphere until midnight during the week and 1am on weekends.

For more information, visit Seabirdlondon.com

Coq D'Argent, Bank

Zip up the glass elevator at 1 Poultry and head to Coq D'Argent, a stunning rooftop bar, restaurant and terrace in the city. It's under cover but you'll get plenty of sunshine whilst soaking up the skyline. Unforgettable views and rich green foliage make this a must-visit spot during the summer months.

For more information, visit https://www.coqdargent.co.uk/

Frank's Cafe

Arguably Peckham's best rooftop bar, Frank's Cafe has legendary status in South London. It's huge, with space to enjoy stunning sunsets over the city and offers evening drinks, daytime small plates and brunch, too. It's also got an interesting history, being the first big project from Practice Architecture. It was once an abandoned car park, now transformed into one of the best rooftop bars in London.

For more information, head to boldtendancies.com

Radio Rooftop 

There's a reason Radio Rooftop is one of the most iconic rooftop bars in London - just look at that view. Located on the tenth floor of the ME building, you'll get epic views of central London - great for a dates, or catching up with friends. Do note, there is a dress code: they ask you to be both 'smart and glamorous'.

For more information, head to www.radiorooftop.com

Queen of Hoxton

Located in - yep, you guessed it - Hoxton, this popular city bar is also a club by night. Throughout the summer, enjoy live music and DJ sets with a backdrop of neon signs and twinkling fairy lights. Order fruity cocktails, to Moet slushies or local lagers, and this summer the food menu is stacked with Bajan delights.

For more information, head to www.queenofhoxton.com

The Abbey Tavern Pub, Kentish Town

If you live near Camden or Kentish Town, you'll know The Abbey Tavern. It's one of the biggest rooftop bars in the area, with an outdoors beer garden to boot, and is well known for its buzzy atmosphere and delicious pub-style grub from Nanny Bill's. Think burgers with gravy bowls and mac and cheese croquettes. It does get busy, so make sure you book when you can.

For more on how to book The Abbey Tavern, head to their website: www.abbey-tavern.com

NT's Loft East London

NT's is your best bet if you live in East London or spend a lot of your time in Hackney. Situated in Netil House, it's a bit of a speakeasy in that it's hidden away - you wouldn't know it was there unless you knew. It's a big space, and you'll be able to soak up the East London skyline on the gorgeous roof terrace.

For more information, head to www.ntbar.co.uk

Sabine London St Paul's Rooftop Bar 

Anyone visiting London with fall in love with Sabine given that, if you're sat at the right table, you'll get a pretty unparalleled view of St. Paul's cathedral. Cocktails are tasty, the vibe is top tier, and it's a great spot for a drink or two if you're after a bar in central.

Top tip: make sure you go in summer and specify that you want to sit outside when you book for the best view.

For more information, head to sabinelondon.co.uk

Sky Lounge

Situated in the famous Shangri-La hotel at The Shard, the Sky Lounge is situated on level 34 and offers breathtaking views of the city. Sip on one of their signature Veuve Clicquot cocktail and nibble on grilled tuna steak as you see if you can spot Tower Bridge, the Gherkin, and other iconic London landmarks.

For more information, visit skylounge-shangrila.com.

Shoreditch House

The pool at this East London members' club is about as well-known to Londoners as it's sister staycation spot, Babington House. With a new poolside bar, decadent changing rooms, and Wes Anderson-esque furniture, this is not just a, but the spot to unwind (and celebrity spot) in the sunshine. Order a Picante and enjoy. Members only, mind.

For more information, visit sohohouse.com.

Roast turkey served in a puddle of rich gravy. Buttery mince pies between meals. Crackers with cheese and chutney. And endless lucky dips into the open tub of Quality Streets, rummaging to find your favourite flavours. Food is at the very heart of Christmas, with countless traditions centred around sharing beautifully-prepared produce with loved ones.

We rise long before the sun on Christmas morning to skin potatoes for the family roast, and savour leftovers sandwiched between soft slices of bread on Boxing Day. We slurp Bailey’s and flambé sticky Christmas pudding, before saturating it in cream. The subject of food is simply inescapable around Christmas time, which, for those who struggle with food noise, can make this time of year feel quite overwhelming.

Although not a diagnostic term, the phrase is used to describe frequent and intrusive thoughts that people have about food, macronutrients, calories or other food-related decisions – even when they don't feel hungry. “Food noise goes beyond a craving or passing thoughts about foods, but creates a preoccupation that can create a mental load,” explains health psychologist Dr Sula Windgassen. Research shows it's more closely aligned with rumination, which the American Psychological Association Dictionary defines as "obsessional thinking involving excessive, repetitive thoughts or themes that interfere with other forms of mental activity."

We’re not talking about a gentle nudge of hunger. “Many people experiencing food noise are eating enough yet still feel mentally crowded by food-related thoughts,” says psychotherapist and Counselling Directory member Lauren Russell. “It becomes problematic when it starts to dominate attention, trigger guilt or anxiety, or interfere with daily life."

Made popular in 2023, it’s a relatively new term to describe the specific intrusive thoughts people experience surrounding food. There’s not a wealth of data on how many people struggle with food noise, but a recent survey of 2,000 UK adults, conducted by Numan, revealed that nearly nine in 10 people experience it.

Of course, food noise isn’t only difficult to manage around Christmas. However, mental health experts agree that the festive season can be a particularly challenging time of year, when food noise is at full volume. “In my own clinical work, I often hear people say that December is the month they feel they’re constantly ‘mentally negotiating’ with food, even those who generally feel at ease with eating during the rest of the year,” says Russell. “That tug-of-war is rarely about appetite alone. More often, it’s about exhaustion, expectation and feeling emotionally stretched.”

If you are someone who experiences heightened food noise around Christmas, let us first reassure you that you aren’t alone. While there’s certainly no quick and easy antidote, there are methods to turn down the volume - which we cover below. Keen to read more expert-backed nutrition content? Don't miss our guides to Em The Nutritionist's health hacks, plus our go-to healthy breakfast ideas, healthy snack ideas, and healthy smoothie recipes, here.

Ever wondered how to turn down food noise? Your expert led guide

What factors make you more susceptible to food noise?

There are various factors that make you more vulnerable to food noise, according to Dr Windgassen. “It can happen because of an interplay of factors including psychological relationship with food, environmental factors (the emphasis on food around the festive period, for example) and biological factors, like shifts in appetite with hormonal fluctuations, changes in weather, movement and more,” she says. Additionally, food restriction often makes food noise more likely.

Why can food noise be so damaging?

Worryingly, research indicates that, in severe cases, it could impact quality of life, eating behaviours and other medical outcomes. “When food noise takes up too much mental space, it can quietly erode wellbeing,” says Russell.

“People often report increased shame and self-criticism, a growing distrust of their bodies, and a sense that food decisions have become high-stakes moral tests," she continues. "Over time, this can fuel cycles of restriction and overeating, reduce pleasure and presence around meals, and pull attention away from rest, connection and enjoyment, even in people with no history of an eating disorder.”

At best, according to Counselling Directory member Annabelle Hird, food noise can be an annoying distraction from life, reducing productivity and fulfilment. “At worst, it can lead to isolation, as a person might withdraw from social interaction.”

How to turn down food noise, according to top experts

1. Try not to put pressure yourself

Try not to pile pressure on yourself to "fix" your thoughts. This, Russell says, is neither realistic nor necessary. “It’s about turning down the volume,” she says.

2. Eat regularly, even when routines are off

“Key foundations to help with food noise,” says Dr Windgassen. “This includes ensuring regular mealtimes, as much as possible, good hydration and good sleep.” Eating regularly, she says, will help the physiological regulation of hunger. “It will also set you up for optimum ability to work with your mind and emotions.”

“Skipping meals to ‘make up for it’ tends to intensify food focus,” warns Russell. “Regular nourishment reassures the brain that food is available, which often eases urgency.”

3. Let go of all-or-nothing thinking

One meal doesn’t undo your health or your worth, Russell emphasises. “Rigid rules keep anxiety alive; flexibility gives your nervous system some breathing room.”

She advises paying attention to how you eat, not just what you eat. “Slowing down, tasting your food and noticing satisfaction can help the mind move on. Being present/mindful often does what control can’t.”

4. Notice emotional triggers with curiosity, not judgement

If certain foods show up during stress, boredom or loneliness, this is information, says Russell, not a failure.

Dr Windgassen agrees. “Recognising how you are feeling emotionally when you are preoccupied with food can help you to identify a key trigger to food noise,” she says. Boredom, sadness, anxiety, and guilt can all cause rumination on a particular topic, such as food noise.

“Instead, offering an alternative route to regulate these emotions can help your brain recognise an optimum way of managing how you feel that is more appropriate for improving your wellbeing.” She recommends movement, journaling, sitting with your feelings and meditation for regulating emotions.

5. Soften the language around food

“Words like ‘good’, ‘bad’ or ‘naughty’ carry emotional weight,” says Russell. Neutral language, she says, reduces shame and mental fixation.

6. Widen your sources of comfort

If food is doing a lot of emotional heavy lifting, Russell recommends gently introducing other forms of nourishment, such as rest, movement, creativity, connection. “When needs are met elsewhere, food often feels less urgent,” she says.

Dr Windgassen emphasises the importance of getting really clear what, exactly, it is you value about Christmastime, and let this guide you. “Say, for example, having fun with family is what you value most. You can write down a list of ways that you can engage in this over the period so that you can more easily reorient yourself to these options when your mind is focussing on food,” she says. “The more valued options, the more appealing choices your brain has to refocus on.”

7. Consider support if the noise feels stuck

In some cases, food noise is closely linked to past trauma, disordered eating patterns or unmet psychological needs, according to Russell. Working with a therapist, she says, can help untangle these safely and compassionately.

“Food noise isn’t something to defeat; it is an unmet need being communicated,” Russell reassures. “It’s information, a sign that something in you is asking for care, safety or nourishment. When I share this with clients, the response is often relief rather than surprise. Simply understanding that the noise has a reason can soften it.”

When pressure eases, she says, the chatter often fades on its own. “And that, perhaps, is a kinder and more realistic goal than trying to manage Christmas perfectly.”

Shop MC UK approved wellness products now:

The English Sparkling Wine scene is booming. Warmer temperatures across the UK and a high demand for homegrown fizz have contributed toward the thriving market — and standing out from the crowd can be challenging.

But there are a few reasons English Sparkling Wine fans should take note of Britpop, a highly acclaimed bubbles range at an accessible price point.

Firstly, it's fronted by former Blur bassist Alex James (very in keeping with its name). The musician now lives on a farm in The Cotswalds with his family and, as well as being a sparkling wine connoisseur, is also a master cheesemaker — all the ingredients for a top-tier dinner party.

Secondly, it's highly rated. The Sunday Times Wine Club awarded the Britpop Brut 5/5, calling it 'creamy, long and toasty'. The reviews from the Marie Claire team were also glowing, with many commenting that the wine matched their favourite mid-price champagnes and was 'fresh and light with a genuine depth of flavour.' The expert reviewers on the Laithwaites website concur concluding that the Brut was 'better than some champagne twice the price'.

The Britpop trio of Brut, Rosé and Elderflower Fizz

Alex teamed up with the prestigious Furleigh Estate, home to some of the UK's top sparkling wines, and former UK Winemaker of the Year Ian Edwards to bring his vision to life. The hero product from the range, Britpop Brut, is the sum of their efforts. This delicious fizz blends 40% Chardonnay, 40% Pinot Noir, and 20% Pinot Meunier with an ABV of 12%.

“My first English fizz is a versatile companion," says Alex. "Try it with fish and chips on the beach or to toast the Christmas turkey, and great on its own, anytime. Give it some ice when the weather demands it!”

We can testify that this versatile fizz was a winner. In addition to the Britpop Brut, the range includes a fizzy rosé and a low-alcohol elderflower fizz made from blossoms foraged from British hedgerows, natural spring water, and effervescing Champagne yeasts.

“This spritz is a perfect low-alcohol alternative for toasting - it’s fresh, it’s light and delicious,” adds Alex. “Muddle with fresh herbs, berries and ice or lengthen with a sparkling water. Garnish and go! Perfect in a trifle.”

Meanwhile, the Britpop Rosé blends 49% Chardonnay, 37% Pinot Noir and 14% Pinot Meunier, with an ABV of 12%.

“Having a Britpop Sparkling Rosé made perfect sense to me,” Alex explains. "Finding a halfway decent sparkling pink outside of France is quite the challenge, but with this rosé, I think we’ve absolutely smashed it.

Alex added: "With floral, red berry and brioche-y notes, it’s perfect paired with supper or breakfast and is a magic stable mate to our white. And for Christmas, we love it as a palette cleanser.”

Plus, it's an affordable option. English sparkling wines usually retail for upwards of £30 — with prices rising to over £200 for some vintages. The Britpop Brut is a very affordable £25, while the Rosé costs £28. The Elderflower Fizz retails at £12.99 — a bargain price point for when you want a bottle of something extra special.

Alex said of the price difference between English Sparkling Wine and champagne: “The French have invested massive fortunes in marketing," he told The Grocer.

"Every bottle of champagne you buy, you’re paying for all those centuries of investment. It [English sparkling wine] is an easy thing for me to market given the festival and associations to British food.”

For Alex, launching Britpop is a lifelong ambition realised. ‘A glass of Champagne was a great prop in the '90s," he told Great British Life.

He continued: "And it’s something I’ve always wanted – a sparkling wine with my name on it, more so than I've ever wanted a Brit award with my name on it."

Britpop by Alex James range is available exclusively from laithwaites.co.uk

If, like me, you have a big family, you’ll know the festive panic of last-minute Christmas shopping. I have imaginative nieces and nephews to impress, parents who love a luxurious treat, and siblings who value gifts that incorporate brilliant storytelling - so when it comes to buying presents, there’s a rather heavy pressure to make sure that everyone is happy.

But what I’ve realised in recent years is that there’s one thing we all have in common: an unshakeable appreciation for beautifully crafted chocolate. My most poignant Christmas memories involve us all coming together after a hearty dinner, cosying up on the sofa, and sharing the sweet treats that we’ve been eyeing up since the start of the month. So now, I forgo the stress of darting from one shop to another in December and instead make a singular trip to my nearest Hotel Chocolat.

The award-winning chocolatier is known for their elegant and indulgent creations, and there’s nothing more satisfying than setting down a Grand Wreath Box and watching as the children, teenagers and adults alike dive in for their favourite pieces. The little ones are endlessly amazed by the sheer size of the Rather Large Chocolate Christmas Cracker, and my dessert connoisseur mother is always thrilled with the Winter Puddings box. For me, Christmas is all about spending time with my loved ones - and nothing brings us all together like an enormous array of irresistible chocolates.

The Grand Wreath Box is the ultimate showstopper when it comes to Hotel Chocolat’s festive offerings, and it’s the one that gets me the most popularity points over the festive period. With 84 carefully sculpted chocolates and weighing in at over a kilo, there’s more than enough to go around. Festive tipples have been transformed into bite-sized delights (think caramel espresso martini baubles and mulled wine thimbles), while the mini wreaths and white chocolate custard tarts showcase the brand’s innovative approach to confectionery. It also includes several flavour iterations of the impressive Supernova chocolate star - which was uniquely designed to replicate the real thing, with points which aren’t quite symmetrical. Talk about innovation!

For those who enjoy the exciting snap of a festive cracker (and in my family home, that’s everyone from my three year old niece to my father who’s in his sixties), Hotel Chocolat present their very own Rather Large Chocolate Christmas Cracker. And it’s not just rather large. It’s enormous. At two feet long the white cracker, adorned with red bows, is impressively packed with 40 chocolates, including the caramel spruce Christmas trees (which are so delicately designed that you’ll probably want to marvel at them for a few minutes before enjoying). But that’s not all. It also includes 12 paper hats and jokes, so you can enjoy the traditional fun of a festive cracker as well as champagne truffles, milk chocolate snowflakes and scarf-wearing reindeer. Win win.

The Hotel Chocolat Classic Christmas box is the one for you if you need to satisfy all. A great choice for those who want to try a little bit of everything, the tray has been updated this year to ensure that every palette is catered for. There are triple blackcurrant chocolates for lovers of zingy fruity flavours, and the Caffè Latte Supernovas are an expertly balanced mouthful of Arabica coffee and smooth hazelnut praline. You’ll also find salted caramel cream, caramel, and white chocolate penguins donning bobblehats, which were sketched and originally hand-carved by Hotel Chocolat’s in-house chocolate sculptress.

And if you have a loved one who adores cakes and bakes - for me it’s my mother, who is something of a real-life Mary Berry - the Hotel Chocolat Winter Puddings box is a non-negotiable. Filled to the brim with pudding-inspired chocolates, you’ll find tart Gooseberry crumbles alongside spiced carrot cake pots and festive cinnamon bun cases. Plus, all the chocolates in this box are alcohol-free meaning that they can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Although, you don’t have to tell the little ones that…

My hope for you—my Christmas wish, if you will—is that this festive season is loaded with love, plates heavy with all your favourite food, and the warming glow of nostalgia. If now isn’t the time to indulge your inner child, then I don’t know when is. What I do know is that even when you’re fortunate enough to have all the aforementioned festive fare, this time of year can also come with its fair share of stress; awkward conversations, inherited expectations, family politics, and the ever-present pressure to recreate a version of the day that may no longer fit who you are, or the life you’re living now.

Friendsmas, by contrast, offers a welcome antidote to the hustle and expectations. It’s a chance to bring together the people who truly get you, your chosen family. The friends who have held your hand through breakups and breakthroughs, who’ve seen you at your worst and loved you despite it; or if you’re really lucky, because of it. The people who make ordinary evenings feel like something worth celebrating. And yet, so often, our friends are the only people we don’t celebrate.

This is why Friendsmas is more than a celebration (though any excuse to bring your people together is worthy of pulling out all the stops, in my humble opinion): it’s an act of connection. It’s about recognising that family isn’t always defined by blood or tradition, but by consistency, care, and the people who show up again and again. It’s about giving friendships the romance they deserve. So often we save the best—the metaphorical silverware—for partners, parents, or polite dinner parties, while the friends who carry us through life get the leftovers.

So, this year, why not let Christmas honour where you are, rather than where you think you should be? Hosting is all about romanticising your life and understanding that love, belonging, and meaning can come from many places and change shape over time.

Unlike Christmas, which is so often beholden to tradition, Friendsmas is gloriously flexible. There are no rules, rigid formats, or inherited scripts to follow. No wonder that a survey from Courvoisier, found that 63% of Brits say they are trading big parties for smaller gatherings that allow for genuine connection, and 60% of hosts are rejecting the noise of sprawling guestlists so that they can actually be part of the moment themselves.

With Freindsmas, you can host a candlelit dinner or a chaotic potluck, dress up or stay in PJs, start a new ritual or scrap them all together. That freedom is part of the joy, but it can also feel a little overwhelming.

Which is why I spoke to self-confessed “dinner party obsessed London girlie” Matilda Bea to get her failsafe tips for hosting Friendsmas, or well, whatever you want. Read on for her top seven failsafe hosting tips.

Matilda Bea’s Top 7 Tips for Holiday Season Hosting

1. Give your dinner party a theme and stick to it

“This helps your guests to get a feel for the dress code and alludes to the spirit of the evening. This could be centred around something specific - such as the drink of the evening, the cuisine you are serving, or a seasonal touch. This can carry through all elements of the evening, such as bespoke menus and place cards, an easy way to make it look like you’ve gone above and beyond.”

2. Jazz up your glassware

“Jazz up your glassware with some festive garnishes or even paint your guests’ names on each glass with a semi-permanent glass pen. This avoids the age-old problem of losing your glass, as it quite literally has your name on it.”

3. Let there be light!

“Use small rechargeable table lamps, candle lanterns, or floor lamps dotted around the room to set the mood and give a warm and cosy ambience, perfect for a dark wintery night.”

4. Set up a self-serve cocktail station

“Such as an Aperol Spritz bar, this will make hosting and serving it a lot easier for you throughout the evening – print out little recipe cards in the theme of your festive party with instructions if the cocktail requires mixing.”

5. Greet each guest as they arrive

“If guests do not know each other, make thoughtful introductions. Arrange a seating plan to encourage interaction and mingling.”

6. Put ice in your sink

“This is a fun way to create a makeshift bar. For an added touch, incorporate a nod to your theme and add festive foliage or other seasonal details.”

7. Plan ahead by creating a budget and sticking to it

“Christmas time can be expensive before considering hosting, so it's important to keep your finances in mind. Create a checklist to ensure nothing is overlooked.”

Shop Festive Party Essentials

Figue 75 Winter Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients

25ml Mermaid Winter Gin

12.5ml Cointreau

Top up with Prosecco

Garnish

A twist of orange peel

Method

Pour Mermaid Winter Gin and Cointreau into a flute and top with prosecco. Finish with a twist of orange peel.

The Savoy, widely regarded as London's original luxury hotel, is celebrating its 135th anniversary. Established in 1889, it pioneered its field as Britain's first purpose-built deluxe hotel and the first with unlimited electricity and hot running water—and it maintains its prestigious reputation to this day. Some of the world's most iconic celebrities have graced its doors, including Oscar Wilde, Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, and legendary singer and actor Marlene Dietrich, who has a suite named after her in the hotel.

Offering understated elegance and impeccable service, it exudes old-fashioned charm, from the attention to detail from the staff to the striking instantly recognisable ornate interiors. The hotel was opened by former theatre impresario Richard D’Oyly Carte, who also built the Savoy Theatre close to the hotel. D’Oyly Carte was inspired by New York hotels' grandeur and thriving bar scene. With its close proximity to the West End and views over the River Thames, it's undoubtably one of the best properties for a luxury UK staycation in London.

Art Nouveau designer A.H. Mackackmurdo originally designed the hotel, but various acclaimed London designers and architects have added flair to the hotel over the years. In the 1920s, a young architect called Howard Robertson brought the Art Deco movement to the hotel and still to this day, it's a fusion of Art Deco and Edwardian styles, with lavish designs, decorative moulding and gilding in the public areas and floral wallpaper in the guest rooms. It's the ultimate place for a nightcap in London, with the American Bar and Beaufort Bar serving up some of the best cocktails in London, if not the world.

To celebrate the hotel's rich history, The Savoy has unveiled a series of celebratory initiatives, including a limited-edition cocktail book. Inspired by key figures from The Savoy's past, it contains recipes for 100 signature cocktails, capturing the essence of The Savoy’s bar culture over the years. In honour of the hotel's 135th birthday, here's everthing you need to know about this landmark London hotel.

THE ROOMS

The rooms at The Savoy are classic yet contemporary, with a focus on high-end luxury. The smallest rooms are classed as 'Superior Queens' and are still spacious with a writing desk and armchair. The rooms at the Savoy come in two styles: traditional Edwardian or Art Deco; a theme that runs through the rest of the hotel. Luxurious Penhaligons products are available in the bathrooms.

Suites are available for a hefty fee, but come with perks such as a personal butler service and private car. Next year will see the hotel reveal a series of refurbished rooms and suites as part of the ongoing development within the hotel.

FOOD & DRINKS

The food and drink offering at The Savoy is extensive, with three revered restaurants: Restaurant 1890 by Gordon Ramsay, Savoy Grill by Gordon Ramsay, and The River Restaurant by Gordon Ramsay.

The Thames Foyer is one of the most iconic places in London to have afternoon tea, amidst its stunning art deco surroundings, but guests should be advised that the area is currently under renovation. Next year will see iconic London venue Simpson’s in the Strand reopen after a refurbishment.

The hotel's two bars, the American Bar and Beaufort Bar, are famous across the globe for their delicious cocktails. The Beaufort Bar is great for late night drinks with its sumptuous surroundings, while the American Bar is perfect for a pre-dinner cocktail, often with some live music to complement it.

THE ACTIVITIES

With The Savoy Theatre just moments away, this is an ideal location for a cultural trip to take in some of London's impressive shows.

Beauty & Fitness at The Savoy is the hotel's wellness spa and every bit as stylish as you would expect. The 33 feet swimming pool is situated in its own light and airy atrium for a relaxing dip. There's also a sauna and steam room, as well as a tempting treatment menu for those who want to indulge in some first-class R&R.

NEED TO KNOWS

Rooms at The Savoy £760 and you can book through the hotel's website or by phone at 020 7836 4343.

Address: Strand, London WC2R 0EZ

So, you're on the hunt for a healthy meal delivery service that's tasty, nutrient-dense and also won't break the bank (cost of living crisis, we're looking at you).

Lucky for you, you're in the right place. My name's Ally Head and I'm the Senior Health Editor here at Marie Claire UK. I'm a fan of building a healthy lifestyle that doesn't cost the earth. For me, one of the simplest ways of doing this is having the freezer stocked with simple, tasty, healthy options for those days when you really don't have the energy (or patience) to cook. Yep - it happens to the best of us.

Naturally, we wouldn't want to recommend anything without having tested it - so, between the team, we've tried out eight different healthy meal delivery services for you. There are some good ones - keep scrolling for our favourites. Don't miss our guides to what to eat after a workout, and healthy snack ideas, while you're here.

8 best healthy meal delivery options to have on your radar

1. Fresh Fitness Food

From £26 a day | 5/5 rating | Macro-focused meal prep delivered to your doorstep | Minimal waste.

What we thought when testing:

Shannon Lawlor, Executive Beauty Editor, thought: "I'm not the sort of person who plans and preps their meals ahead of time. Instead, I tend to just eat whatever is quick and easy to prepare, or more often than not, order a Deliveroo. Not only is this terrible for my bank account, it's also not great nutritionally. At the start of this year, I made it my mission to take more care over what I'm eating, and Fresh Fitness Food seemed like the perfect way to start off."

"I loved that I could express what I wanted out of it before my meal plan was prepared. I mentioned that my main objective was healthy fat loss, so my meal plan was designed with a calorie deficit in mind—but all of this is completely customisable and tailored to you as an individual."

"The delivery process is exceptional. Every morning when I woke up, my cool bag containing three meals was waiting for me on my doorstep. It's worth noting that if you live in a block of flats with no concierge or don't have a front door where you feel comfortable having it left on the doorstep, this could be an issue as they are delivered overnight."

"As for the food itself, I was blown away. It tastes exceptional and is just as delicious cold as it is warm. The portions are perfect, and I felt more than fine doing my daily workouts without feeling empty or like I needed more food. I love the customisation aspect and think it's really well-considered. All in all, it's two huge thumbs up from me."

Ally Head, Senior Health and Sustainability Editor, thought: "If you're after a real deep dive into your macros, then Fresh Fitness Food is the one for you. Their expert team will tailor a meal plan designed to your personal requirements - anything from weight gain, to muscle build, to maintenance - and deliver three meals a day, alongside juices and snacks, to your doorstep."

"The food is delicious, too - they don't scrimp on portion size and make sure you've got a real variety every day. For fitness fanatics, I'd say this is the best meal delivery option you can opt for."

freshfitnessfood.com

2. Apres Food

From £6.95 | 4/5 rating | Delicious home-cooked freezer meals | Minimal waste.

What we thought when testing: Ally Head, Senior Health and Sustainability Editor, thought: "I was pleasantly surprised by Apres Food, who offer nutritious home-cooked food that you can pop in the freezer for times when you're simply too busy to cook but don't want to order takeaway."

"The food is all organic and prepped by top chefs and qualified nutritionists. Fancy a treat? Their sticky toffee pudding is to die for. Life is all about balance, after all."

apresfood.com

3. AllPlants

From £6.75| 4.5/5 rating | Balanced nutrition, vegan | Minimal waste.

What we thought when testing: Ally Head, Senior Health and Sustainability Editor, thought: "AllPlants are reshaping the market when it comes to vegan food - their dishes are so tasty and versatile, you genuinely can't notice that they're not meat. My favourite is the Power Plant bowl, but their Green Mac and Cheese is also delicious."

"I love the brand's ethos and that everything is made by professionally trained chefs in-house - plus, they're a certified B Corp brand, so you know you're spending money with a brand that genuinely cares about the planet, too."

allplants.com

4. PRESS Health Foods new ready meals

From £8 | 3/5 rating | Most meals were a balance of carbs, fats and protein | Recyclable plastic but could have been better

What we thought when testing: Ally Head, Senior Health and Sustainability Editor, thought: "I'm a big fan of PRESS juices so when I saw they'd launched their brand-new ready meals, I was keen to try. All vegan and made from natural ingredients, they're all - bar one risotto - high protein, too, offering great office lunches for post-gym. The meals were filling, tasty, and ready after just 3 minutes in the microwave, too. Plus, they froze well, which made for great grabbable "I forget to make lunch" options."

"I wasn't impressed with the recyclable plastic, though - I thought that the brand could have done more to make the packaging eco-friendly."

press-london.com

5. HelloFresh

From £33.48 (two people, three recipes) | 4/5 rating | Five a day stated on the recipe card | Cardboard packaging can be recycled but plastic used for the food containers.

What we thought when testing: Grace Lindsay, Writer, thought: "If, like me, you're a bit of a novice when it comes to the kitchen, I couldn't recommend Hello Fresh enough. The service allows you to select from lots of different dinner ideas, and delivers perfectly proportioned ingredients to your house, meaning you are never wasting food as you only have as much as you need."

"There are lots of different meal ideas to choose from, whether you are vegetarian, are looking for dinners under 650 calories or want quick 20-minute recipes to whip up in no time. The ingredients each come with a recipe card with simple steps to follow. I've picked up so many cooking skills along the way, and feel so much better now that I am eating fresh, whole produce every night instead of my usual microwave meal."

hellofresh.co.uk

6. Green Chef home food kits

From £3.35 per serving | 5/5 rating | Choose from keto, lower-carb, flexitarian, vegan and vegetarian | Carbon neutral.

What we thought when testing: Ana Ospina, Senior Art Editor, thought: “Green Chef sent meal kits with pre-measured ingredients and straightforward recipes a beginner chef could follow."

"I received a box packed with high-quality ingredients - including vegetables, seasonings, sauces, grains, meat, poultry, and fish, depending on the meal plan you pre-selected. It came with easy-to-follow recipe cards. The portions were just right and they incorporated a lot of flavours and textures, so the meals were tasty and satisfying. My favourite was the spiced cod tacos, which were easy and delicious. I was really impressed by the quality - the food and recipes were outstanding. Green Chef is good for foodies and anyone who likes to cook, but maybe wants a bit more variety in their meals and doesn’t mind spending time in the kitchen to prepare."

"I also liked how eco-friendly Green Chef is, they work with British suppliers, so the food is seasonal and ingredients have lower emissions. They’re 100 per cent plastic and carbon-neutral and committed to sourcing ingredients that are free of GMOs, pesticides, and antibiotics. One thing to note is the meals did take longer to prepare than stated.”

greenchef.co.uk

7. Balance Box ready-made meal plan

From £26.99 per day | 4/5 rating | Nutritionally-complete meals | Ethically sourced ingredients.

What we thought when testing: Ana Ospina, Senior Art Editor, thought: “The meals are very healthy and packed full of fresh ingredients. While some are designed for day-to-day, the ones I tried are designed for weight loss, and it didn't feel like I was dieting at all. All the pre-prepared meals have plenty of protein and fibre-rich fruit and vegetables, so they do a good job of keeping you feeling full. I especially liked the snacks, which were delicious bars packed full of nuts and dried fruit."

"The meals are devised by a nutritionist so they have all your essential vitamins and nutrients and everything is worked out for you. The meal plans contain breakfast, lunch and dinner along with two snacks, with the whole lot totalling either 1200 or 1800 calories a day, depending on whether you want to lose weight or maintain. It’s easy to follow – you don’t have to think about your meals at all as it’s all done for you. It’s perfect for people who have very busy lifestyles who want to eat well - but be warned, it is pretty costly.”

balancebox.com

8. The Detox Kitchen

From £29.99 a day | 4.5/5 rating | A balance of protein, fat and carbs | Minimal packaging.

What we thought when testing: Ally Head, Health and Sustainability Editor, thought: "I love The Detox Kitchen meals. Not only do you know that they've been prepped with care and packed full of good-for-you ingredients, the recipes are really innovative, too."

"I was pleasantly surprised at how fresh and filling all of the dinners were, and I love that the delivery comes with snacks and juices, too. The packaging was minimal and I didn't have to throw away loads of plastic - normally a downside of delivery services like this. Plus, Gwyneth Paltrow is a fan... which gets a yes from me. Healthy meal delivery, sorted."

detoxkitchen.co.uk

9. Frive

3-day meal plan: from £35 per week | 4.5/5 rating | Made from 100% whole foods with no low-quality seed oils | Restaurant-quality meals.

What we thought when testing: Sofia Piza, Junior Fashion Editor, thought: "From from the get-go, you're greeted with meticulously packaged meals that are easy to unpack and store in the fridge. Once reheated, they are as tasty as you'd expect. With a blend of whole foods and grains, you can rest assured that all macros are accounted for, ensuring a balanced meal.

"Allowing you to choose your own health goals, the number of meals, the number of people eating, and more, it simplifies the process and was a true aid for my husband and me, who usually resort to eating out after a busy day in the office."

"As for the meals, I am still dreaming of Frive's grilled rib-eye steak, which, yes, tasted just as delicious when microwaved. I especially liked the variety of meals, many of which seemed extremely elaborate for a meal delivery service, further adding to its allure. Choose from mango chicken, saffron and paprika chicken thighs, or beef pho; you really can't go wrong."

frive.co.uk

10. Calo

From £13.77 a day| 5/5 rating |chef-crafted ready meals, adjustable plans, including Balanced, High Protein, Gut Health, Vegetarian.

What we thought when testing: Ana Ospina, Senior Art Editor, thought: “The chef-led healthy-eating ready-meal delivery service has multiple plans, offering over 100 menu options. Its app is simple to adjust or swap meals, and there’s plenty of food – every day includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and two snacks. I tried the high-protein plan, which exceeded expectations. It included dishes such as roast chicken, red Thai curry, Gochujang beef pasta and items from the limited-edition Indian menu by chef Anjula Devi, which I loved. I was surprised how filling the meals were - I often didn’t need the snacks."

“I’ve tried a few food delivery services, and I’d easily give this a 5/5, for taste, portion size, and quality. The daily delivery meant everything was fresh, compared to food services which deliver in bulk, and there was a good variety of diverse, flavourful dishes. Best of all, the meals were ready in around three minutes, so it’s incredibly convenient. I highly recommend it if you’re looking for a healthy, high-protein meal service that doesn’t sacrifice taste or variety.”

calo.app

Easter is right around the corner, and that means one thing: it’s time to stock up on the best Easter eggs. If there’s one thing I love more than a big ball of pure chocolate (filled, naturally, with more chocolate), it’s finding said chocolate ball at a great price.

Enter, the Amazon Spring Sale. As Marie Claire’s Junior Shopping Editor, a vast portion of my week has been spent scouring the site for the best deals—from home deals to travel essentials, cult beauty products, beauty tools and even the best air fryer deals. The main thing that stuck out though? The sheer amount of brilliant Easter egg discounts to shop on Amazon right now. You could even say there are some cracking great deals out there. Sorry.  

Best Easter egg deals: Quick shopping links 

24% off Giant Lindt Chocolate Easter Egg | £24.95 (was £32.95)

27% off Creme Egg Easter Egg | £16 (was £21.95)

34% off Maltesers Easter Egg | £15.10 (was £22.95)

15% off Assorted Mini Easter Eggs set | £16.95 (was £19.95)

15% off Easter Chocolate Bunnies | £16.95 (was £19.95)

When is the Amazon Spring Sale? 

It’s on right now! The Amazon Spring Deal Days event is running from now until the 25th of March, and offers brilliant deals on pretty much everything—from fashion and home to beauty—and, of course, chocolate.

You have till the end of this weekend to snap up these brilliant deals. All you have to do is set up an Amazon Prime membership to take advantage of the great discounts on offer.

If you’re after Easter eggs of the beauty variety, we’ve got a roundup of the best beauty eggs for you to shop, but if it’s Easter egg deals you’re after, keep scrolling to shop my top picks. Because as a self-confessed chocoholic and professional bargain hunter, I feel I’m pretty well placed to find the best deals. Happy saving - and Bon Appetit!

Best Easter Egg deals to shop now

So, you're looking for one of the best coffee machines? Well, you've come to the right place. Along with one of the best air fryers, investing in a great coffee machine is an easy way to elevate your kitchen.

Whether it's a gift for someone else or a treat for yourself, here at Marie Claire UK we know how important good coffee can be. In fact, it's an integral part of our morning routines, so we took it upon ourselves to test a selection of highly-rated machines, to really see what all the fuss was about.

How to choose the best coffee machines for your home

When choosing the best coffee machine, it's important to think about what you like to drink. If you're partial to a strong morning espresso, then an espresso machine will most likely be the way to go. However, if a frothy latte is more your thing, you'll want a machine that comes equipped with a milk frother.

It's also worth considering how much space you have in your kitchen, as some machines can take up a lot more room than others.

Finally, think about how much you want to spend. In our roundup, we've included both affordable and luxury options, so we've got you covered, whatever your budget. A good coffee machine really is a great investment, as you won't find yourself buying a takeaway coffee every day. In fact, by buying one of these (and really utilising it), you'll be saving yourself money in the long run. You are welcome.

We've tested every single one of the coffee machines below, so you know that you're getting our honest review. For more information, don't forget to check out our guide to how we work on product reviews. Now, onto the good stuff...

The best coffee machines to buy now

1. Dualit Espressivo Pro Coffee Machine

"The Dualit Espressivo Pro coffee machine is the ultimate machine for serious coffee drinkers who enjoying making their coffee as much as they do drinking it." - Lily Russo-Bah, Fashion Director

2. Illy Easy E.S.E Coffee Machine

"If you're low on counter space and want to add a pop of colour to your kitchen, this is a great choice. Illy's E.S.E machine is compact and sleek - but still makes a pretty powerful brew. If you're not a fan of the bright red shade, it also comes in cream or black to suit your kitchen counter. It works in a similar way to a typical pod coffee machine - simply pop it in, press the button and a shot of espresso pops out. I'm a huge fan of the adjustable stand, which allows you to cater to differently-sized coffee cups (including the adorable espresso mugs I can't get enough of right now). The pods are slightly different from the conventional type, but they're easy to pick up from Amazon or the Illy website - they're pretty affordable and incredibly tasty." - Valeza Bakolli, Junior Shopping Editor

3. Nespresso Vertuo Pop

"If you don’t want a huge coffee machine in your kitchen, the Nespresso Vertuo Pop is a compact coffee maker that’s small in size, but big on taste. This machine stands at 31.4 cm tall, so hardly takes up any room on the kitchen bench and is easy to clean and store. Not only is it compact, but it's also extremely easy and quick to use and performs brilliantly. The stylish design comes in six colours, so it can blend in or stand out, whichever you prefer.

I really liked how the Nespresso Vertuo Pop can brew multiple sizes of coffee, from an espresso to a mug. It uses larger capsules, to make the best Nespresso coffee I’ve ever tasted, plus the capsules come in different sizes according to the type of coffee you want. There’s also a huge variety of flavours and strengths.

It’s a clever machine, with one-touch brewing, fast heat-up, automatic fast pod ejection, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technology. I also liked that it’s made from 35% recycled plastic and the pods are aluminium, so can be recycled by sending back to Nespresso.

The only downside is the fact that the Nespresso coffee pods can be a little more expensive. It's worth noting that Vertuo pods are not the same size as standard Nespresso pods, or supermarket derivatives, so just one to bear in mind. " - Ana Ospina, Designer

4. Grind One Pod Machine

"When I say I was excited about trying this coffee machine, I mean it: I was *excited*. I love coffee - sadly it doesn't love me quite so much, and I can only have one a day, pre 12pm. That said, I look forward to my morning coffee most days and no, I'm not ashamed to say it sometimes (often) gets me out of bed in the morning.

Testing the Grind One Pod Machine, the aesthetic is immediately noticeable. It's small enough, shiny and silver, made from stainless steel (so thought to last longer than other plastic alternatives which end up in landfill), and has a manual leaver, too, making it feel like it's built to make 'proper' coffee.

Pros, three weeks in: it was ridiculously simple to set up - I literally attached the mug tray, plugged it in, filled it with water, popped a pod in, and had delicious coffee! Noise-wise, it's quiet enough, and the crema (that's the creamy bit on top of the coffee, FYI) is consistent with each mug. Plus, it's really easy to choose how much coffee you want to be dispensed (great when you live with espresso fiends, like my partner), and the brand's Grind pods are some of the only home compostable pods currently available (it's also compatible with other major competitor pods, like Nespresso).

Cons: I thought that it was a bit of a shame that it didn't come with a milk frother. That being said, you can purchase a version that does come with one, so I would definitely recommend that. It's also on the pricier end of the spectrum, compared to competitors, and is delivered in an awful lot of cardboard.

Overall, I'm a fan - it looks great in my kitchen, is simple to use, and makes delicious coffee. Sure, it may be more expensive, but IMO, I'd rather invest in a higher-end option that lasts a lifetime and stops me from contributing to landfill every five years." - Ally Head, Senior Health Editor

5. Tassimo by Bosch HAPPY Pod Coffee Machine

"For me, this machine is the perfect introduction into the world of coffee makers. It is so simple to use, the machine is nice and compact and you can purchase a range of pods depending on what you like to drink. You can even get hot chocolate pods if you don't fancy coffee.

All you have to do is fill the machine with water, pop in your chosen pod, press the button and watch as your cup of coffee comes to life. The only downside to this machine is that it doesn't come with a milk frother, but for the price, you really can't go wrong." - Grace Lindsay, Ecommerce Writer

6. Smeg Espresso Machine with Pump

"I can't lie, the first thing that drew me to this machine was the way that it looked. In fact, I think it's one of the most aesthetically pleasing coffee machines ever to exist. It's great for espresso lovers, however you can also make lattes thanks to the milk frother.

After reading the instructions, I found it super simple to use, and felt like a real barista after using ground coffee for the first time. I couldn't recommend the machine enough, and might even have to purchase the toaster and kettle to match." - Grace Lindsay, Ecommerce Writer

7. De'Longhi Magnifica Evo

"If you prefer using coffee beans over pods, say hello to your new favourite coffee machine. The De'Longhi Magnifica Evo is made for those who really take pride in the quality of their morning coffee, and it even comes with a milk frother to make a wide selection of drinks.

Although it took me a little while to figure out, once you've got the hang of it, it is super easy to use. You can also use ground coffee, so it's great if one of you wants decaf and one of you doesn't (like my partner and I). You can choose from three cup sizes and do two cups at once. Win win.

The only two things that I would make sure to consider before buying is that the machine is rather big, so make sure you've got enough space in your kitchen. It can also be a little noisy when grinding the beans, but trust me when I say it's worth it." - Grace Lindsay, Ecommerce Writer

8. Sage Barista Express Bean-to-Cup Coffee Machine

"For a machine that wouldn't look out of place in your local Starbucks, say hello to the Sage Barista Express. This luxury coffee maker is definitely an investment, but you'll never have to visit a coffee shop again.

Not only does it look chic sat in my kitchen, but it can turn your coffee beans into a delicious espresso in under a minute. You can grind the beans right before extraction for full flavour, and you can bring out your inner barista thanks to the manual milk frothing function. It is expensive, but if you are really into your coffee, then this is the way to go." - Sunil Makan, Editor

9. Sage the Bambino Espresso Machine

"Okay, so this coffee machine might be a little spenny, but it has honestly revolutionised my morning routine. Sage is a leader in the coffee industry, so you’re definitely getting what you pay for here. It takes some prior research, but once you’ve gotten the hang of the technique, it’s incredibly easy to use - even for a novice like me. The results? A smooth, creamy brew with a rich crema on top. Lovely.

The Bambino features all the barista-worthy perks you’d expect from a larger Sage coffee machine (including a milk steamer and a wealth of handy accessories), just on a smaller scale. It goes without saying that this is the perfect compact machine if you’re short on counter space but don’t want to scrimp on the quality of your coffee. I’d also like to point out that the Bambino is currently on sale for £100 less at Amazon, so it’s a great time to invest if ever there was one." - Valeza Bakolli, Junior Shopping Editor

10. L'OR BARISTA Sublime Coffee Capsule Machine by Philips

"Fans of espresso, this is the investment for you. L’OR's BARISTA Sublime machine will certainly satisfy your need for a caffeine hit. The machine takes coffee pods, meaning you can easily select how strong you’d like your espresso to be. Not to mention, it’s compact and cute, so it will look just lovely on your kitchen bench, and won’t take up too much room if you’re in a small flat. Did I mention you can do two espressos at once? Perfect if your partner is also a fan.

The one thing to note though is that the machine does not come equipped with a milk frother, so it is definitely an option for those who like their espresso without any additions. Overall, I think it’s a great machine if espresso is your coffee of choice, and at only £63, it’s definitely a worthwhile investment." - Zoe Anastasiou, Fashion Editor

11. Breville One-Touch CoffeeHouse

"My morning coffee is an essential part of my daily routine. I have often found myself sacrificing time to pop into my favourite local coffee shop, and as exciting as this is, it is not the most time effective, so I can safely say I was excited to find an alternative.

This coffee machine has been a great addition to my fast-paced morning as it's versatile and easy to use. The machine is small and compact but able to provide a vast variety of options from espresso, latte, cappuccino, and americano - all at two different sizes. This machine also includes a variety of adjustable functions including an adjustable milk froth setting, moveable shelf height to adjust to different sized mugs, and a scoop and press tool to measure the desired amount of coffee.

The only downside is that this machine can be noisy when it comes to grinding the beans which is not ideal as I live with a few other people in a small space, however this is to be expected with these kind of machines.

Overall, I am very pleased with this coffee machine as it has given me different options for a coffee lover who is open to trying different types and brands. With its milk frother setting I have also been able to create chai lattes and hot chocolate for friends that are non-coffee drinkers as well." - Sofia Piza, Producer

12. Bugatti Diva Coffee Machine Chrome

"This has to be one of the most boujee, luxe coffee machines that I have laid my eyes on. It was a hand-me-down from my parents, and every time I use it I feel really classy and sophisticated. It is big and heavy (7.7kgs), so if you have a small kitchen it will take up a lot of your counter top.

If you're serious about your espresso then this is the coffee machine for you, and you can use either E.S.E coffee pods or ground coffee. If you go with the later, it can take a little bit of time to get used to the measurements but once you've sorted it, you're set. It also comes with a steamer if you want some froth on your coffee.

All I'll say is that its called Diva for a reason!" - Sophie Cookson, eCommerce Analyst

13. Philips 5400 Series Bean-to-Cup Espresso Machine

"Okay, this coffee machine is one of the pricier ones on this list, but it genuinely is worth the investment. I simply fill it with fresh coffee beans, water and milk, and it grinds, brews and steams everything for me (I'm a bit of a technophobe and even I can work this machine with ease). It provides me with a huge variety of options - from flat whites and cappuccinos to iced lattes, and I can even choose how much foam and milk I want to add to each coffee, or whether I want to add an extra shot of espresso. The clever profile system lets me tailor my own (and up to three more) coffees to perfection, making my regular morning brew a breeze to make. Trust me, you'll want to invite people around just so you can show off this machine (as my fiancee has done endlessly since the day it arrived on our doorstep." - Valeza Bakolli, Junior Shopping Editor

14. Kitchenaid Fully Automatic Espresso Machine, KF8

"To be honest, I really struggled to find a downside to this machine, apart from its weight, which you only have to deal with once when you set it up. Other than that, this machine is a dream come true. I'm not a morning person at all, so the fact you can make a decent cup of coffee when you're half asleep is ideal. Its interface is so easy to use, allowing you to make lots off different hot beverages from espressos to americanos and lattes at the touch of a button. You can even make herbal teas with it. Every drink is customisable from the strength of the coffee beans to the volume of water used, and once you find your perfect combination, you can save it under your profile. I have my coffee black, but it does come with a milk container and the option to use plant-based milks as well if that's how you like yours. Overall, it's a yes from me." - Penny Goldstone, Contributing Fashion Editor

We’re well into November and that means all the best advent calendars are officially available to shop. I don't know about you, but the idea of opening a quaint little door to reveal a little treat each morning is one of my favourite things about the build up to Christmas.

You might think it’s a little early to start thinking about Christmas traditions, but the most wonderful time of the year is right around the corner, and before you know it the best advent calendar options will have sold out. Half of the best beauty advent calendars, for example, are already out of stock. So now's not the time to play it cool.  

As a shopping editor, I scroll through an embarrassingly large amount of products on a daily basis (meaning I’ve already dropped some serious gift guide hints to anybody who will listen) so I’ve become pretty well accustomed to picking out the best advent calendars to shop. 

I’ve scoured through hundreds of retailers so you don't have to. I know, I know, I shouldn’t have. 

From classic chocolate options to tipple treats and even festive socks, there’s an advent calendar out there for everybody (even jewellery advent calendars). Keep scrolling to shop my top picks.

The best advent calendars of 2023

1. Fortnum's Feasting Advent Calendar

2. Selfridges Collection Festive Mini Mince Pie Advent Calendar

3. Sockshop 25 Pair Christmas Advent Calendar

4. 24 Doors of Desk Delights Papier advent calendar

5. Lindt Lindor Milk Chocolate Christmas Advent Calendar

6. Fortnum's Chocolate Truffle Selection Advent Calendar

7. Tony's Chocolonely Countdown Calendar

8. Barebells Advent Calendar 2023

9. Bonne Maman Jam Advent Calendar

10. Newby Tea Advent Calendar 2023

11. John Lewis Beer & Snacks Advent Calendar

12. The Naked Marshmallow Co Advent Calendar

13. MIMI & LULA Luxe hair Accessories Advent Calendar

14. Lily's Kitchen Dog Christmas Advent Calendar 2023

When should I start my advent calendar? 

Advent marks the beginning of the spiritual year in Western Christianity, with the first day falling four Sundays before Christmas day. If you’re following tradition, the first day of Advent falls on Sunday 3rd December this year, so that’s when you can crack your advent calendar open.

Saying this, as advent calendars are typically numbered from 1 - 25, most people start their advent calendar on the 1st of December, using it as a countdown to Christmas day. So if you want to get started on your treats early we won’t tell anybody - promise.

From hat boxes of indulgent festive foods to hampers of fine wines, these are the best of the best, as chosen by the Marie Claire team…

The festive season is upon us, and for food and wine aficionados, that means just one thing - ‘tis officially the season for Christmas hampers.

Considered the crème de la crème of Christmas gifts, a festive hamper is on everyone’s wishlist. And no one does it better than Harvey Nichols, with their signature wicker hampers overflowing with a specially curated selection from their new festive food range, fine wines, and luxury gifts from all over the world. Tall bottles of zesty Limoncello and aromatic mulled wine, decadent dulce de leche panettone, Zambian forest honey with nuts and ginger, and boozy truffles. And of course bottles - and better still, magnums - of Premier Cru Champagnes and English sparkling wines. Nothing spreads yuletide cheer like a Christmas hamper, and whether you’re shopping for a true loved one, fussy in-laws, the host who has everything or hopefully yourself, you can’t go far wrong with gifting one of these.

As Harvey Nichols celebrates the Christmas season with the new launch of its world-renowned festive hamper range, we’ve rounded up our top favourites. From the luxury department store’s classics to its brand new artisanal offerings, from the most extravagant to the more affordable, these are the best of the best, as chosen by us.

5 Harvey Nichols Christmas hampers to invest in this season

The luxury Christmas hampers and entire festive food range are available in Harvey Nichols stores and online now - and from vegan to alcohol-free offerings, there is truly something for everyone.

Don’t miss out on Free Hamper Delivery across Harvey Nichols range of Christmas food and beverage hampers until the 3rd December!

Visit the Harvey Nichols website for more information.

Life tastes that bit sweeter on the Amalfi Coast, where the pastel-coloured houses hug dramatic cliffs and the scent of lemon groves mingles with the salty Mediterranean air. It’s a place that has inspired many a summer’s adventure—and not least the delicious botanicals found in Malfy Gin. 

So if you’re looking to add Italian style to your cocktail hour this summer—uplifted with the notes of handpicked juniper, Italian lemons, pink grapefruit and oranges—Malfy is the truly unique gin from Italy you need to try.

Here are Marie Claire’s tips for bringing the magic of Italy and a taste of La Dolce Vita to your cocktail recipes, with drinks that will never fail to impress:

1. Choose your favourite Italian tipple 

For a refreshing sip that transports you to a stylish, sun-soaked terrace in Italy, why not try one of Malfy Gin’s four stunning varieties: vibrant Malfy Gin Rosa is made with fresh Sicilian pink grapefruit, bright Malfy Con Arancia comes with the zesty flavour of Sicilian blood oranges, Malfy Con Limone is made with Italian sun-ripened lemons and Amalfi lemon peel, while Malfy Originale is your classic dry-style gin with an Italian twist.

2. Mix up your cocktail recipes for a fresh twist on aperitivo hour 

Whether you’re a true classic or someone who likes their drinks with a bit of a twist, there’s always fun to be had mixing it up with Malfy. You can go for something quick and easy, but still bursting with botanicals, or push your cocktail skills a little further. Give your spritz a gin twist by mixing together blood orange-flavoured Malfy Con Arancia, Prosecco and Sanpellegrino Limonata. For the finishing touches, garnish with blackberry, a pink grapefruit slice and sage—chef’s kiss!

Or how about a signature gin & tonic with a twist? It’s made with pink grapefruit-flavoured Malfy Gin Rosa, Fever Tree Mediterranean Tonic, and garnished with a pink grapefruit wheel and a sprig of rosemary. 

3. Make it all about the small plates 

If you love the laid-back affair that is aperitivo culture, then you know how much fun can be had with small plates and antipasti—best served with slices of pillowy focaccia and plenty of juicy olives. To find your perfect Malfy pairing, why not try dishes that give a nod to the Amalfi Coast’s abundance of seafood, from moreish anchovy crostini to bite-sized bowls of spaghetti vongole, all with a squeeze of fresh lemon. If dessert is more your thing, be sure to offer guests a showstopping Sgroppino—the citrusy cocktail featuring Malfy Gin Con Limone that is served with a scoop of lemon sorbet.

4. Set the scene for crafting memories  

If you want to throw the kind of party that transports your friends to sunnier, warmer climes, then tablescaping can be an easy win. Dress your spread with a variety of Italian-inspired La DoubleJ linens, tableware, and glassware—perhaps mixing and matching styles for an eclectic charm. Don’t forget to incorporate candles, (we're thinking Acqua Di Parma for true Italian style), fresh flowers and vibrant herbs as part of your decor.

Eucalyptus entwined on the table always looks stunning, and citrus fruit that gives a nod to your cocktails—like the lemons, blood orange and grapefruit found in Malfy—can make a real impression. 

5. Be ready for some spontaneous socialising 

When you think of a warm summer’s evening in Italy, it’s all about being in a bustling piazza, drink in hand beside the fountain. And whether it’s a last-minute decision, after-work drinks or a simple celebration, Italians know how to mark the occasion without the fuss. Famed for its changeable temperament, the British weather can make or break your summer plans—but with Malfy you’ll always be ready to whip up some impressive drinks in a flash. Whether you’re hosting a large group of friends or just throwing together an intimate supper at the eleventh hour, the botanicals in Malfy always elevate the occasion—served simply over ice or in your favourite cocktail creation.   

Want to serve up effortless Italian style? Prepare this cocktail next time you host

Malfy La Dolce Vita Spritz 

Ingredients: 

• 35ml Malfy Gin Con Arancia
• 50ml Sanpellegrino Limonata
• 50ml Prosecco
• Blackberry, pink grapefruit slice & sage

Method: 

• Build ingredients in a glass over cubed ice and gently stir to combine
• Garnish with blackberries, a pink grapefruit slice and sage

For more cocktail ideas, visit Malfy Gin from Italy and to buy a bottle, visit amazon.co.uk. Enjoy responsibly bedrinkaware.co.uk

Let's face it, the most exciting part of Easter shopping is, of course, the selection of the dream Easter Egg. And rest assured, 2024 is so far serving up some cracking (get it?) choices.

Are you shopping for a loved one? A child? A parent? A co-worker? Your boss? Or, like most of us, yourself? Well, whoever you’re buying for, we've sourced the finest selection of eggs that are bound to put a smile on anyone's face.

So whether you’re looking for some super luxurious offerings (you know, the ones that wouldn't look out of place in an art gallery) or something a little bit different (think iced biscuits and more), we’ve got you covered.

For any vegan chocolate lovers reading this, don't fear, as we've also included our favourite vegan Easter egg for you to shop, and it looks rather delicious if you ask us.

If there's a theme for this year's Easter egg offering, it's all things bright and beautiful: from intricate patterns to colourful chocolate (yes, really.) These Easter eggs are almost too good to eat. (Emphasis on the almost.)

Looking for an Easter gift that doesn't involve chocolate? Don't forget to check out our round ups of the best beauty Easter eggs (including our personal favourite - the Lookfantastic beauty egg) and the best luxury candles. These gifts make the perfect alternative to chocolate, and means you get to keep the Easter eggs all to yourself.

So, without further ado, keep on scrolling for our guide to the best Easter eggs to buy now. Warning: you might just want to be eating (or in close proximity to) a piece of chocolate while you're looking through the following. You're about to feel rather hungry.

Now sit back, have a browse and let your mouth water...

The best Easter eggs to buy now:

1. Best indulgent Easter egg

Ok, how cool is this? This thick milk chocolate shell is packed with the brand's most-loved chocolate treats. Presented in a chic reusable tin, this indulgent egg is the perfect gift for those who adore delicately sweet flavours.

2. Best classic Easter egg

Made out of a crisp milk chocolate shell (of the most incredible quality) which conceals a little bag of chocolate buttons, you can't get more classic than this Easter egg from Eataly.

3. Best white chocolate Easter egg

For the white chocolate lovers, we recommend this one from House of Dorchester. It's designed to look like a chocolate slab, hand decorated with swirls of milk chocolate, crunchy honeycomb pieces and gold flakes - what more could you want?

4. Best dark chocolate Easter egg

Indulgently dark (we're talking 70% cocoa) and sprinkled with sea salt, this Easter egg is perfect for the person with a sophisticated taste, who loves the finer things in life.

5. Most unique Easter egg

This beautiful treat is the epitome of luxury. Hand-crafted in-house out of smooth caramelised white chocolate and a delightfully crunchy layer of popcorn praline. Perfect for those of you who like something a little bit different. 

6. Best Easter biscuits

If you're looking for an alternative to the classic egg, why not try biscuits instead? These intricately-iced biscuits come in an adorable keepsake box, and would make the perfect Easter gift.

7. Best Easter hamper

Another great alternative to an egg is an Easter hamper. This Harvey Nichols one is an absolute treat, with colourful eggs, chocolate, nibbles, buttery shortbread and strawberry sweets inside.

The brilliance of wine clubs are something that came into their own in lockdown, and the trend isn’t slowing down any time soon. Providing us all with exciting libations direct to our doors, these clubs have changed how we drink wine, encouraging us to try new styles and grape varieties while learning more about them. 

With so many wine clubs on offer, it’s hard to know what’s really good as preferences are subjective. The Decanter Wine Club however, curates their club of only top-scoring wines as rated by their panel of experts. So you know collectively, each bottle has wowed their experts in turn and quality is guaranteed. 

“Each shipment has been designed to offer a diverse and fascinating range of both old and new world wines in varying styles,” says Editor-in-Chief of Decanter, Chris Maillard. “Every bottle has come through our rigorously independent tasting process and earned a top score from our panel of highly respected judges.” 

Suitable for all occasions the club combines excellent everyday bottles with cellar-worthy ones, making it a ‘something for everyone’ club that’s worth the splurge. It takes each member on a journey of discovery where you’ll have the chance to try bottles you wouldn’t easily get elsewhere. 

Make those little luxuries count this year; treat yourself to an exciting wine delivery from the Decanter Wine Club and enjoy a new curation of six fantastic, highly rated bottles every quarter. 

It’s safe to say we’ll be armed with a newfound confidence to tackle the wine list at restaurants and boast a broader range of wine knowledge we didn’t have before thanks to this subscription. 

Take a look at the Decanter Wine Club and sign up here. 

This article has been sponsored by Decanter 

Whenever I'm asked what the best gift is, my answer always remains the same: Champagne. 

You can never go wrong with bubbles. It's generous, a guaranteed crowd pleaser and not to mention, it's easy to do last minute (we've all experienced that late night dash on Christmas eve!)

My love for fine Champagne and Rosé (and a good spirit too) lead me to scouring the internet for the best place to buy the finest selection. Luckily, I found Clos19, offering access to some of the world's finest Champagnes, wines, and spirits. 

Yes, really. 

With unrivalled access to LVMH's exceptional portfolio, Clos19 offers bottles direct from Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot and Château Cheval Blanc - to name just a few of my favourites. 

But that isn't even the best part. There are personalised Champagne bottles and boxes available for extra special presents and keepsakes to be remembered. The Veuve Clicquot offerings are undoubtedly the most popular over the festivities.

I even found a Moët & Chandon personalised pink gift box that I haven't seen on any other site and it is simply beautiful. I immediately ordered one for myself before adding one to basket for the best birthday gift. 

I'm stocking up now to make sure Christmas is a very festive one, but most importantly, that I start the New Year with a bang (or should I say a pop). 

Need some inspiration for the perfect gift? Or searching for the best personalised gift boxes? Keep scrolling for all the best Champagne, wine and spirit gifts that will see you through New Year's eve, Valentines Day and beyond... 

Cheers to that!

When it comes to the best Christmas presents, you can't go wrong with a hamper. In fact, these hampers are a gift to behold. What better way to treat your loved ones (especially the loved ones who are... how can we put this? Tricky to buy for) than with an assortment of goodies they can devour throughout the 12 days of Christmas and beyond.

Hampers are literally the gift that keeps on giving - endless packets of shortbread biscuits and savoury snacks to help you through the days spent on the sofa. Plus, most of them come with a wicker basket that can be recycled as pleasing-to-the-eye storage after every morsel is gone.

It's not just food either, did you know that you can also purchase beauty hampers filled with products from some of your favourite brands, such as Charlotte Tilbury, Fenty Beauty and Augustinus Bader? Pretty cool if you ask us.

But with so much choice out there, which are the best Christmas hampers on the market for 2023? Well, we've done the hard work for you, combing through every offering we could find, to bring you our favourites at an array of different price points. You are welcome.

For more gifting inspiration, don't forget to check out our guides to the best gifts for him, the best personalised Christmas gifts and even the best Christmas beauty gift sets. But for now, keep on scrolling and get ready to tick everyone's presents off your list in no time...

The best Christmas hampers to buy now

Anyone else feel hungry after reading that? Now you've seen our selection of the best Christmas hampers available to buy now, treat yourself or a loved one to the gift that keeps on giving. Trust us, you'll be very popular thanks to one of these. We're off to add some to our baskets before they sell out.

Some products just explode onto the market. Take the Always Pan, for example - it seems like everyone's got one at the moment.

As the name suggests, the famous pan is a do-it-all addition to your kitchen equipment and makes a great cooking gift. Originally designed to replace eight traditional pieces of cookware, the brand have just released the Always Pan 2.0, which now replaces a whopping ten pieces of cookware. It's the ideal space-saving utensil - oh, and it looks pretty chic, too. Offered in eight different colours, from green to lavender and everything in between, you can see why it's a big hit on Instagram.

But like most highly coveted hero products, it comes with a healthy price tag. Usually retailing at £130, it's not something you'd necessarily buy without thought. Which is why we were very excited to spot that they have just gone into the early Black Friday sales...

Our Place - the folks behind the genius Always Pan - are offering £45 off the bestselling product right now. That's right, the cult piece of kitchen equipment is retailing at just £85, which is the lowest price it's ever been! Almost too good an offer to miss, right? While you're here, don't forget to check out our edit of the best air fryers for more kitchen inspiration.

Better yet, the Perfect Pot has also gone into the sale, so if you already have an Always Pan you can complete your collection for less. It is made with the same game-changing ingenuity that made the Always Pan a sellout, and does everything from boiling, baking, crisping and steaming. It's the perfect duo, if you ask us.

What is the Always Pan and why is it so popular?

The clever pan is intended to replace ten different pieces of kitchen equipment from a frying pan, a steamer, a saucepan and more.

The idea is that you should be able to do almost anything with it; braise, sear, steam, strain, sauté, the list goes on! Basically, it should be a one-stop-shop for cooking until your heart's content.

It is made from Thermakind™, the brand's exclusive ceramic nonstick coating, and after using one ourselves, we totally get the hype.

It comes in 11 stunning colours (Including eye-catching and more muted shades to suit your kitchen's decor) and we want them all, TBH. But the savings don't stop there - Our Place has a Black Friday sale across its entire website right now. Keep scrolling to shop the deals we're most lusting after.

Shop our top picks from the Our Place Black Friday sale

We will be cooking so much more after getting our hands on these. Check out the Our Place Black Friday sale for yourself.

Sound the klaxon: Cyber Monday is officially here, and with it, an increase in people Googling the best Nespresso Cyber Monday deals.

Higher price point electrical items, like a coffee machine, are great investments at this time of year when the savings are big. Some sites are selling machines from household names like Nespresso for just £50, and we've been working hard to get all the best deals in one place for you. 

So why a coffee machine? Well, because while they are a higher price point, it'll likely mean you save ££ on takeaway coffee while still enjoying barista quality cups from home. 

We know times are tough right now, which is why we're encouraging mindful investment. Will you use this machine for years to come, and do you really need it? If the answer is yes, then we've got the best deals for you.

Don't miss the mega Cult Beauty Cyber Monday deals or Le Creuset Cyber Monday savings, while you're here. 

Nespresso Cyber Monday quick shopping links

• Nab yourself a Nespresso Vertuo machine for £50 (RRP £149) on their website
• Nespresso machines on Amazon are up to 59% off - while stocks last
• Save over £200 on Nespresso machines at Currys
• Similarly, John Lewis is offering savings of £100 on the Nespresso Lattissima Touch
• Save up to £150 on Nespresso machines at Very
• Argos are selling Nespresso Vertuo coffee machines for their lowest ever price
• Save up to £100 on Nespresso machines at AO.com
• Save £89.99 on Nespresso Vertuo Krups at Robert Dyas
• Save up to £100 on Nespresso machine at JD Williams

Nespresso Cyber Monday deals: shop the best offers now

Nespresso coffee machines are a popular choice if you're looking for delicious creamy coffee from the comfort of your own kitchen. 

This year, the Nespresso Black Friday (and Cyber Monday) sale is in full swing, with the site selling Nespresso Vertuo machines for just £50 when bought with a subscription. You'll also get a free advent calendar with your first order. Delicious. 

There are also Nespresso coffee machines on sale on the likes of Amazon, Currys, John Lewis, and more, so there are savings to be had across the internet. 

Save yourself the scrolling, though - we've put the best deals below.

Thank us later. 

Other coffee machine Black Friday deals

Where can I find Nespresso Cyber Monday deals?

Here are all the retailers we've found offering discounts on Nespresso machines right now:

• Nespresso
• Amazon
• Currys
• John Lewis
• Very
• Argos
• AO
• Robert Dyas
• JD Williams

The Hotel Chocolat Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals you need to know about

If the winter months are making you crave warmth and comfort, you're not alone. Searches for Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals are on the rise and to be honest, we don't blame you.

It's undeniably the must-have product of the festive season and, thanks to an army of influencers posting videos of themselves "velvetising", the luxe in-home hot chocolate machine has become a viral sensation - promising barista-quality drinks in under three minutes.

You'll be delighted to know, then, that the Hotel Chocolat Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals aren't slowing down. In fact, they're flying off the shelves with some pretty hefty discounts. 

Obviously, it's important to invest sensibly - here at Marie Claire UK, we're passionate about buying products for life. 

If that, for you, is the Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser, now is a good time to buy. 

On the Hotel Chocolat website, you can now get 15% off by using the HOHOHO at checkout. But other retailers are offering up to 45% off, saving you nearly £50. 

Here's where - happy shopping. 

Hotel Chocolat Black Friday and Cyber Monday - quick shopping links

• Nab a Velvetiser foir just £93.50 on Amazon now - a great offer on new gadgets
• Get 45% off a copper Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser from eBay
• Enjoy 15% off orders over £30 on the Hotel Chocolat site with the discount code: HOHOHO
• 50% off on the similar SALTER Chocolatier Electric Milk Frother & Hot Chocolate Maker - was £79.99, now £39.99
  

Hotel Chocolat Black Friday Velvetiser deals

Is there a cheaper version of the Velvetiser? 

Other Hotel Chocolat Black Friday Deals

Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser pouches

Coffee Velvetiser pouches

We will keep this page updated with the latest Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals from Hotel Chocolat, so be sure to bookmark.

Happy shopping!

'Tis the most wonderful time of the year: the Cyber monday Champagne deals are upon us. We could all do with stocking up on Champagne for the parties ahead, but we can't all fork out for the premium stuff.

Lucky for us, the Cyber Monday champagne deals are in full swing, and we've found some amazing bubbly for as little a tenner a bottle. 

And if you want to push the boat out, there's a discount on Bollinger Champagne too!

Cyber Monday Champagne deals - quick shopping links

• Majestic Wines: up to 35% off champagne
• Amazon: up to 30% off Moet & more
• Fenwick: up to 10% off Champagne
• Slurp: up to 33% off Champagne 
• Laithwaites: save up to £20
• Averys: up to 50% off Champagne

When it comes to a bubbly bargain, your first stop needs to be Fenwick - who is currently selling Veuve Clicquot Brut Champagne for £28.80 a bottle, saving you a fiver. And if you buy any six mixed bottles, you'll save 10%. Lovely. 

Waitrose is also coming to the rescue with a, quite frankly, corking deal: a bottle of Lanson Black Label, for under £30.

After more deals on festive tipples? We've rounded up some of the best spirit and wine Black Friday deals below...

 Cheers to that! 

The countdown to Christmas is on, with just six weeks until Santa drops off his sack full of Missoma goodies (hopefully). 

But it's not just the beauty advent calendars and Black Friday deals we're looking forward to - it's the unique food and drinks offerings that really make the festive season. As the darker evenings draw in and the weather dips, there is nothing more appealing than a night in with Netflix, Christmas chocolate tins and a fun festive beverage.

But before you go straight for the mulled wine, how about opting for a cheese-infused gin?

Yes, you read that correctly. Derbyshire's Cuckoostone Distillery has collaborated with the Hartington Creamery to create cheese-infused gins - and a vodka - for anyone who fancies a unique Christmassy hybrid. 

While we've seen gin-infused cheeses on the supermarket shelves in recent years, it seems that Cuckoostone and Hartington are shaking things up with the reverse combo - and it sounds interesting. 

There's a gin, dry gin, pink gin and vodka on offer, with the alcoholic drinks infused with the whey that Hartington uses to make stilton.

So what exactly does a cheesey gin taste like? Is it so bizarre that it might actually work for cheese and gin lovers across the globe?

Well, according to the Cuckoostone Distillery it doesn't actually have a cheese flavour - in fact the addition of the whey just changes the way that the alcohol feels when you drink it, rather than having a stilton-y bite to it. 

As reported via Tyla, it creates a "delicate creaminess" with Bec Morgan saying: "At Cuckoostone Craft Distillery, fresh whey is regarded as a botanical, just like juniper or fennel as it enhances the flavour.

"The spirits can be used to create a plethora of cocktails, and would work especially well in 'savoury' ones, such as a Bloody Mary and a Fennel Gimlet, thanks to the unique blend of ingredients."

If you want to try one of these unusual blends - or know a gin drinker who would love their favourite tipple with an unexpected twist - a 70cl bottle will usually set you back £39, but they're currently on sale for £35.

You can choose from either the Stilton Whey Vodka, Peakland Pink Gin, Peakland Dry Gin or the Devonshire Gold Old Tom Gin. 

Would you give it a go?

Perhaps cheesey gin is the whey forward...

With Halloween well and truly over for another year, the focus has quickly turned to Christmas. Yes, there may be another 46 days to wait until you can unwrap that present that looks suspiciously like a Dyson airwrap - but there's no harm in getting excited for the holiday season now. After all, people who put up Christmas decorations earlier are happier according to science. 

And, as ever, as we look forward to all things beauty advent calendars and Christmas markets, we're waving goodbye to the pumpkin spice lattes and instead embracing the festive menus that have already taken hold. 

This year, the Starbucks Christmas menu is back with a bang and there are some treats. 

So what can you expect?

Well, there are a few new favourites to enjoy, including the Toffee Nut Cream Cold Brew, which is blended with vanilla syrup and topped with a toffee cream foam, and the Praline Cookie Hot Chocolate, a combination of baked cookie flavours and caramelised hazelnut - sprinkled with cookie crumbs, no less. 

Dreamy. 

But if you're a creature of comfort, don't worry - the fan faves are also back, with Toffee Nut, Eggnog, Gingerbread and Caramel Waffle lattes also on the menu once again. Hurrah. 

The food offerings sound just as tasty, with the addition of Brie and Cranberry Focaccias, Toffee Nut Muffins, Mini Loaf Cakes and - most excitingly - Pigs Under Blanket Rolls.

The latter is a Vienna roll is stuffed with sausages, maple cured bacon, sage and onion mayo stuffing, mature cheddar and cranberry chutney. 

Mouth watering yet? Same. 

As well as delicious bites and beverages, the coffee chain also has two reusable cup designs - one classic red for the season of merriment, and another green and red design with stars and snow. Cute. 

The Starbucks Christmas menu is already available in stores and via the app, and with six weeks to go until Santa's arrival there's plenty of time to try everything. 

Enjoy!

When it comes to cooking gifts, there are a few things that come to mind. You can't go wrong with the famous Always Pan, or a classic Le Creuset dish. We're always checking out La Redoute or Oliver Bonas' latest kitchen & dine arrivals for ourselves, but also as gifts for the foodies in our lives. 

Whether it's a grandparent, your boyfriend or the in-laws, cooking gifts always go down well. Cookbooks and recipe journals can be thoughtful, alongside pretty serving bowls and cheese boards.

As boring as it might seem, practical gifts are often the most appreciated, as they tend to be the items that you don't want to buy yourself. Think food choppers, air fryers, storage containers and more.

We've rounded up all of that and more in our guide to best cooking gifts to treat any foodies or aspiring chefs in your life.

Cooking gifts quick links:

• Shop foodie gifts at John Lewis
• Shop cooking gifts at Lakeland
• Shop kitchen essentials at Our Place

Keep on scrolling to shop Marie Claire UK's edit of the chicest cooking gifts to see you through a number of occasions, from birthdays, weddings, garden parties and more. You know that we are all about treating ourselves too, so if you see anything you like, we fully encouraging getting yourself your own little present.

For more inspiration, don't forget to check out our guides to the best wedding gifts, the best gardening gifts and even the best coronation gifts to help you celebrate the special event. We've also rounded up everything from the best luxury candles to the best flower delivery services to put a smile on someone's face.

The best cooking gifts to buy now:

We don't know about you, but after reading that, we are feeling inspired to make some new additions to our kitchen for spring and summer. What will you be getting?

The perfect Christmas gift...

With the clocks going back at the end of the month and the temperatures dropping considerably, it can only mean one thing - Christmas is just around the corner.

If you're one of the more prepared among us, then all your Christmas presents are probably bought and wrapped by now. But if you're waiting for the Christmas gift guides for inspiration then this launch from Aldi could very much excite you.

This is one for the foodie in your life (or anyone who wants to treat themselves to something special on the run-up to Christmas). Enter the Aldi hampers, which are a luxury dupe without the price tag.

Ranging between £49.99 to £174.99 there's a hamper for every budget - but you better be quick, as one of the hampers has already sold out.

Aldi's Christmas Feast hamper, which was priced at just under £100, and included wine, champagne, desserts and truffles, sold out within days. But don't worry, as three impressive hampers are still on sale.

The very inviting wicker baskets, which look very similar to Fortnum and Mason's offerings, include the Luxury Collection hamper. Priced at £74.99 it has 16 goodies in it, including two bottles of their award-winning wine, Italian nougat, a chutney gift set, boozy truffles and plenty of iced fruit cake.

The Ultimate decadence hamper comes with the most expensive price tag, but for £174.99 you're really getting your money's worth with other 30 Christmas favourites - which you can save for the big day, or even give as presents, such as the Champagne.

If you're watching the pennies but still want to invest in a hamper, the Afternoon treats hamper is only £49.99 - the cheapest in the range. With 10 treats it includes some very Christmasy products, allowing up to have your very own afternoon tea at home. You'll find florentine biscuits, shortbread, an indulgent Belgian biscuit selection, plus a marmalade and strawberry conserve.

The budget supermarket also launched a sell-out wine advent calendar again last month.

The popular wine advent calendar even branched out with some new additions. Whether you’re a white wine or red wine drinker there’s something for everyone behind the mini-decorated doors.

Go, go, go!

With the Amazon Prime Early Access Deals coming in thick and fast, it's a great opportunity to do a bit of early Christmas shopping or treat yourself to something you've had your eye on for a while. There have been some huge discounts on everything from Neom candles to Revlon hair tools, and for those who want to jump on the Shark hoover hype some of the best selling models have seen massive reductions.

But if there's one thing that could really help you save some pennies, it's an at home coffee machine. Commute coffees definitely make a dent in your purse every morning, so if there's a way of switching out the costly flat whites for a DIY cuppa that's just as tasty then it's a no brainer.

Nespresso coffee machines are currently on sale, and the Nespresso Vertuo Next has been marked down by 55% - saving you £82. Bargain.

If you want to take a look at a few different models before making the investment, then you're in luck. There are lots of coffee machine deals right now, and we've picked the best ones so that you can decide for yourself.

You're welcome.

Best Nespresso Coffee Machine Deals for Prime Day

The perfect Christmas countdown...

While many of us are trying to come to terms with the fact that it's September (seriously, have we already had nine months of 2022 already?), it's time to accept that the end of the year is night - which means one thing. Christmas.

Ah, the season of mulled wine, mince pies and chilly weather is quickly creeping up on us. In fact, it's only three months away.

And if there's one thing to look forward to this year it's the abundance of countdown calendars that are on offer - whether you're investing in a beauty advent calendar or have become a fan of the cheese advent calendar in recent years.

So if you're obsessed with alternative options then the news of Aldi's latest wine advent calendar will be like music to your ears.

Yes, that's right. Their very popular wine advent calendar is officially back, and it's even branched out with some new additions. Whether you're a white wine or red wine drinker (or even fancy some sparkling rose as a festive treat) there's something for everyone behind the mini decorated doors.

The boozy calendar, which includes 24 mini bottles of wine, means you can open the door to a new taste every day - starting the Christmas countdown with a pop.

The bottles in the advent calendar feature four new wines for 2022, including the Brut Chardonnay, of which you'll have three bottles hidden behind the doors, while the Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc are also new this year. The full list of wines include:

• JP. Chanet Original Brut
• JP. Chanet Original Dry Rose
• Brut d’Argent Chardonnay
• Calvert Reserve Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon
• JP. Chanet Original Cabernet Syrah
• Calvert Limited Release Merlot
• Calvert Syrah
• JP. Chanet Original Grenache Cinsault
• Just Sauvignon Blanc
• Just Pinot Grigio

Best of all, this offering from the budget-friendly supermarket costs just £59.99 - a reasonable price when other wine advent calendars range between £70 and £90.

But, like any popular advent calendar, you'll have to be quick. Last year Aldi's calendar sold out due to huge demand and we can foresee this Christmas treat selling out pretty sharpish again this year.

They'll be available online from 30th October so set a reminder.

If you can't get wait that long, Virgin Wines are selling three different versions of their wine advent calendar this year - one for red wine lovers, another for white wine drinkers and one for both - with all of them costing £89.99.

Laithwates wine is also selling three different versions for £69.99, which you can now reserve for £10 per calendar.

Too early to say Merry Christmas...?

Will you give it a go?

Is anyone else obsessed with watching recipe videos on TikTok? From the famous whipped coffee trend to the delicious feta pasta dish, the app has provided us with lots of ideas when it comes to meal ideas.

We've always wondered what the most popular TikTok food trend is, and thanks to the experts at Top 10 Prepared Meal Delivery, we've finally got the answer. Say hello to cloud bread.

Many of us have tried making our own loaves of bread at home, but this bread is different thanks to its fluffy texture (hence the name). You can even add dye into the mixture to create a sunset cloud effect. Pretty cool, right?

The recipe has had a whopping 3,200,000,000 views on the app, and many users have compared the bread to cotton candy, so we knew we had to try it out for ourselves.

Watch: TikTok's cloud bread:

If you like what you're seeing, we've included a step-by-step guide on how to make it, along with all the equipment you will need. Enjoy...

How to make TikTok's cloud bread:

Ingredients 

• Three large egg whites
• 30 grams of white sugar
• 10 grams of cornstarch

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 300 Fahrenheit.

Step 2

Add your egg whites into a bowl and whisk together until they reach a frothy consistency.

Step 3

Stir in the sugar, adding a little bit in at a time. Mix until it is fully dissolved.

Step 4

Sift in the cornstarch and whisk the whole mixture together until it reaches a thick consistency that holds a peak.

Step 5

Grab a baking tray and line it with parchment paper, before scooping the mixture onto the tray into a cloud shape.

Step 6

Bake the bread for around 25 minutes. It should look golden brown and be cooked through before eating.

What you will need to make TikTok's cloud bread:

You don't need much to make this viral recipe, just a bowl, a whisk and a baking tray. We've linked some of our favourites below, so make sure to add these to your basket before trying the recipe out.

If you'd prefer to make a normal loaf of bread, why not give one of these popular bread makers a go? You'll be an expert in no time.

For more inspiration, don't forget to check out our guides to the best healthy smoothie recipes and the best foods to boost your mood.

The hotly anticipated launch of Jeru, under the helm of esteemed Head Chef Roy Ner did not disappoint. Fresh from 2 Hat (2 Michelin equivalent) Sydney restaurant ARIA, Chef Ner lands on British soil to celebrate his indulgent and eclectic food story.

Jeru is somewhat unassuming from the outside with a simple arched door and shop frontage on Berkeley Street, Mayfair, but once over the threshold you’re engulfed by a world of scents and flavours transporting you on a journey along the Eastern Mediterranean coast, all the way from Syria down through Egypt. We couldn’t wait to get stuck in.

The Food

The menu is designed to be shared and whether you're a carnivore, pescatarian or veggie there’s plenty to tantalise the taste buds (vegans however might feel a little hard done by). Take your pick from hot and cold mezze dishes, raw and cured fish and follow with meats, fish or speciality steaks, charcoal flame cooked in the open kitchen right before your eyes. If you can’t decide then follow our lead and opt for the gastronomic chef’s selection, a menu of 9 savoury courses, sides and sweet bites.

Chef Roy has a quote on the menu that reads “Bread is the core of every meal and sharing a meal is the start of an everlasting friendship”, we can confirm that once you’ve tried the potato fermented wood fired bread with truffle honey you’ll want to be lifelong friends with both the loaf and any pair of hands that helped make it. Never before have we been so lost for words over something so humble as bread. The bakery at Jeru is referred to as a “celebration of flour, stone and soul” and it truly feels like love and soul has been poured by the bucket load into that wood fired bread - we’ll be back to visit the bakery alone.

Other highlights from the chef’s selection included hasselback jerusalem artichokes cooked in rendered chicken fat or schmaltz - affectionately coined “Jewish medicine” by Chef Ner. Mom’s shish barak dumplings with beef cheek, leek yoghurt and mint were melt in the mouth and the only thing disappointing about the fried halloumi doughnuts was that there wasn’t enough of them! Heirloom courgette salad, roast monkfish steak and charcoal octopus brought a perfectly timed lighter moment to the proceedings.

The Setting

Designed as a series of interlocking spaces over two floors, Jeru blends contemporary sophistication and indulgence with a homely Levantine rusticity to great effect. Pass the marble topped bakery and filter through past the open working kitchen where charcuterie fridges are laid bare for guests to nosey. Layla bar serves up fine wines and house blended cocktails; perfect to muse away a few hours whilst overlooking the theatrical lower level dining room and occasional saxophonist.

Dining and service is bustling so if you’re looking for a quiet setting for a peaceful proposal or to entertain weary parents this might not be your first choice but if you want indulgent surroundings, amazing food and the option to stay until the early hours then make sure Jeru is top of your list.

On a final note, I've always found a lot can be said about a venue from its washrooms - have they thought the concept through down to the hand dryers and soap or were the conveniences in fact an inconvenient after thought? Well, the former is true at Jeru as cavernous unisex toilets are designed in the style of a Hamam. Solid oak doors meet glistening aqua marine tiles and marble surfaces, whilst heady fragrances of rose, sandalwood and oud fill the air and take you a million miles away from a Mayfair basement. If it wasn’t for the beckoning food we could’ve stayed there all night.

To book a table visit Jeru, chef’s selection at £69 per person.

Nutritious and plant-based? Win, win.

On the hunt for healthy, plant-packed dinner ideas but not sure where to start? These Deliciously Ella recipes are tasty, cheap, and super simple (none take more than 30 minutes to make).

So, why adopt a plant-based diet or try and eat more plants in your day to day? Speaking exclusively to Health Editor Ally Head and Marie Claire UK, Ella Mills, founder of Deliciously Ella, touched on the environmental factors but also the health wins, too. One 2013 study published in the Perm J. journal concluded that plant-based diets are a "cost-effective, low-risk intervention that may lower body mass index, blood pressure, HbA1C, and cholesterol levels."

Why did Ella first transition away from meat and dairy products herself? "Plant-based for me was about changing what I eat but also changing the way that I lived. I’ve been eating a plant-based diet for ten years, and it’s totally changed my life. It’s unlocked a whole new world of flavour and texture, and really changed the way I think about food."

It's important to note here: healthy will look different for everyone. While plant-based eating will work for some, for others, it won't be their bag. No judgement here - no two diets will (or should) be the same, because everyone's bodies are different. As Ella explains, what's key is working out what works for you and your body. "For anything to be genuinely sustainable in your life, it's got to be enjoyable. If you feel like you're compromising every day and you feel like you're depriving yourself, it won't work."

That's where her plant-packed recipes come in - full of nutrients, fruit, veg, legumes, nuts, seeds, and flavour, too. No more soggy overcooked lentils or undressed salad leaves, here.

Don't miss our guides to healthy snack ideas, healthy smoothie recipes, and gluten-free foods, for coeliacs or those who are intolerant, while you're here.

Deliciously Ella recipes: 5 of her favourites 

1. Creamy Mushroom Orzo

"This is a really nice one-pan one - it's almost like a cheat's risotto as you don't have to keep stirring it and it's ready really quickly," shares Ella.

Top tip: Ella shares that one-pan dinners are her go-to at the moment as, as a busy working mother, she doesn't have as much time to wash up dishes, pots, and pans. "My cooking's changed quite a lot since I've become a mum. One-pan is everything to me at the moment - minimal washing up is key."

2. Asparagus, Potato and Avocado salad

"Dressing your vegetables well and finding your confidence with sauces is key for making vegan food tasty," shares Ella.

Top tip: Ella's go-to dressing at the moment is a mix of coriander, basil, parsley, white beans for additional protein, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, and pine nuts. "It's so delish- really creamy - and adds a nice green pop," shares the chef.

These dressings take things like roasted cauliflower up a notch, she shares.

3. Easy Miso Glazed Aubergines

"Leftover vegetables on a tray with a sauce is one of my go-to's," shares Ella. "Things like tray bakes are delicious."

Top tip: Take the pressure off a bit and make sure you're keeping your recipes simple. Often, Ella and co will whack some veggies on a tray, roast them, and eat with a tasty sauce to go with. "People probably assume that we're making these three-course meals every night but obviously we're not - we're running a business and have two small children. Time is of the essence."

4. Supercharged Porridge

As simple as it sounds, oats are a great source of slow-release carbohydrates, fibre, and protein, too. Top with anything you like, but Ella loves tahini, pear and pomegranate.

Don't miss our healthy breakfast ideas and breakdown of what constitutes a healthy breakfast, while you're here.

Top tip: Adding a little quinoa to your porridge not only ups the protein content but also counts towards one of your 30 servings of fruit and veg a week. Neat.

5. Almond Butter & Chocolate Dates

Finally, these dates are a Deliciously Ella classic, but a great one to whip out post-dinner party or snack on mid-week. Plus, they only require three ingredients and a little salt. What's not to love?

Top tip: These are just as good sans chocolate, if you don't happen to have any in the house, and delicious on a hot summer's day straight from the freezer.

Deliciously Ella cookbook

Like the recipes above? There are 1000's of similar plant-packed recipes in Ella's cookbooks below, ranging from plant-based breakfasts, to seed-topped lunches, to legume-based dinners and more.

Happy cooking.

"Focus on what you can add, rather than what you feel you should take away."

Ever wondered how many servings of fruit and vegetables per day you should be eating?

While many might assume that it's common knowledge that we should be aiming for 5-a-day - that is, five portions of fruit and veg - for a healthy, balanced diet, newer research shows that this guideline may be a little - well, inaccurate.

Case in point: research from University College London in 2014 found that eating seven to eight portions of fruit and veg per day resulted in greater benefit than five - but guidelines weren't changed as it was felt this number was less achievable.

We spoke to Lucy Kerrison, gut specialist and registered dietitian at The Gut Health Clinic, and doctor Megan Rossi, gut health expert and founder of The Gut Health Clinic, to get their take. How many servings should we be eating? 5? 10? 20?

While there are loads of barriers to eating well - income, time restraints, and so on - we've also got a pretty handy trick to help you up your own fruit and veg intake, if you do struggle. Keep scrolling for your answer.

How many servings of fruit and vegetables per day? Your guide 

Fun fact: the 5-a-day guidelines were originally a government campaign that was launched in March 2003 to encourage people to eat more fruits and veggies, shares the dietician. "We know fruits and vegetables are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and fibre," she shares - therefore health experts have long encouraged eating more of them, for planet and personal health.

But why the number five? Is it some kind of magic number? Short answer: no. "The number five was felt to be achievable and memorable, as well as being based on the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) recommendation that 400g of fruit and veg per day (e.g. five x 80g portions), were thought to reduce the risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke," she explains.

What does 5-a-day look like IRL? 

• 80g of fresh, canned, or frozen fruit and vegetables = 1 portion (around 1 handful) 
• 30g of dried fruit = 1 portion (around 1 palmful) 
• 150ml fruit or vegetable juice can be counted once in a day = 1 portion
• 80g beans and pulses can be counted once in a day = 1 portion.

Do I need to be eating more than 5-a-day? 

Bottom line? If you can.

While eating a healthy, balanced diet that works for you is the main priority (some may feel they can't afford that much fruit and veg daily), various research articles have shown that it's best to view your fruit and veg intake over a week, versus a day, and focus on variety, rather than hitting a daily target.

Case in point: research from the American Gut Project showed that you should be aiming for 30 different plant-based products per week - an average of 4.2 per day. "Data showed that the gut health of those eating 30 different plant-based products per week were more diverse that those eating less than 10 per week," she explains. (Read our go-to gut health hacks, here).

Obviously, this is an ideal, and won't be doable for everyone, but is a base guideline. What is a plant-based product, you ask? Good question - as, fun fact, it's not just fruit and veg. They include:

1. Veggies (e.g brussels, carrots, peas…) 
2. Fruits (e.g. apples, pears, Sharon fruit…) 
3. Beans/pulses (e.g. black beans, butter beans, chickpeas….) 
4. Wholegrains (quinoa, wild rice, buckwheat, wholegrain pasta…)
5. Nuts/seeds (cashews, almonds, brazils, sunflower seeds, chia….)
6. Herbs/spices (each counting ¼ point toward your 30) 

Our guides to a vegan diet and a plant-based diet may help with ideas, too.

The thought of eating 30 different plant-based products a week is overwhelming - help! 

Yep - 30 seems rather a lot, doesn't it?

One great bit of advice from doctor Megan Rossi? "Focus on what you can add, rather than what you feel you should take away," she advises. For example, adding chia and almonds to your favourite cookie recipe to add a different texture, creamy oats to a homemade Eton mess, or making your own baba ghanoush crisp dip from roasted aubergine - nutrient-dense and delicious, too.

Sure, load your plate with the good stuff, but also eat anything that isn't deemed as nutritionally dense when you fancy it, too - life is about balance, after all.

Don’t miss our guides to vegan protein, what causes bloating, and vegan protein sources, while you’re here.

Top tips for upping your plant intake:

• Focus on what you get to add, rather than what you think you need to take away.
• Keep a tub of mixed seeds on your dinner table to sprinkle on one or more meals per day 
• Mix up your herbs and spices - get experimenting. 
• Buy mixed nuts rather than one singular type for more variety. 
• Plan ahead - meal prep takes the stress out of mealtimes and keeps you on track. 
• Start small - aim to try one new plant-based product per week.
• Make it fun - tally up your plant-based points across the course of the week, especially if you're trying to get your kids involved. 

How many servings of fruit and vegetables per day? Sorted.

This gadget will change the way you cook for the better...

Looking for a way to eat healthier this Spring? Look no further than an air fryer. Not only do they make cooking a breeze, but these handy machines use around 50 times less oil than deep frying. Impressive, right?

If you're wondering how they work, it's all about the cooking chamber. This clever chamber gets super hot and the dry heat cooks your food to perfection. That's right, you can still get that crispy texture you're after, without using lots of fatty oils. If this is something that appeals to you, then you are going to want to hear all about Aldi's latest deal.

Much like their popular cordless vacuum, Le Creuset style casserole dish and dreamy hot chocolate machine, Aldi's air fryer is a simple way to upgrade your kitchen.

The Aldi air fryer comes with seven different cooking programmes depending on what you fancy. It also features a 30 minute timer, an LED digital touch screen display and a non stick coated frying basket to make cooking as easy as can be. The cool touch handle means you won't burn yourself when removing your food, and there is a three year warranty in case anything goes wrong, what's not to love?

Available in both black and white, the compact style means that this air fryer will fit perfectly into any kitchen. To clean the machine, simply wipe the body with a clean, damp cloth and wash the internal compartments with hot soapy water.

We all know that Aldi's kitchen appliances sell out in no time, so we will be adding this machine to our baskets ASAP.

You won't even have to leave the house...

Spending too much money at Starbucks at the moment? We feel you. When it comes to coffee, the at-home options just can't compare to a barista-style cup of coffee. At least that was the case, before we found this absolute steal at Aldi.

Whether it's their popular garden furniture, bargain cordless vacuum cleaner or Le Creuset-style casserole dish, Aldi definitely knows a thing or two when it comes to homeware, including coffee machines. That's right, Aldi have brought out their own espresso maker, and it's only £30.

The Ambiano Espresso Maker comes with everything you need to make your favourite drinks, from lattes, americanos and more. It features 870w power, five pump pressure, a 240ml tempered glass with level markings, a removable drip tray and a measuring scoop. Oh, and the best part is that it even comes with a milk frother, need we say more?

After reading the reviews, we will definitely be trying out this machine for ourselves. One customer wrote: "I am very happy with this coffee maker and am using it every morning to make a good mug of coffee," while another added: "I love this machine! Easy to use …. and neatly fits into my kitchen!"

The compact style and neutral colour means it can easily work in any home, and we already know it's going to look so good sat on our kitchen counter. All we need to do now is practise our latte art so we can make our coffees look good, too. Starbucks who?

Indulge your loved one...

In partnership with Mr Black

There's under a week to go until Valentine's Day and if you're still searching for the perfect gift for your loved one, don't panic. Team Marie Claire have you covered with our gifting guides on everything from sentimental jewellery to Galentine’s Day gifts and sexy gifts for couples. So, regardless of whether you're newly taken, happily single, merrily married or not ready to put a label on it, we're here to simplify the process behind putting a smile on your loved one's face.

The age-old adage that 'the quickest way to a man's heart is through his stomach' applies to all and never more so when it comes to universally adored, coffee.

Shop: Mr Black

Founded in 2013 by awarded-distiller Philip Moore and designer-turned-coffee-snob Tom Baker, Mr Black Roasters & Distillers was built from their shared belief that "coffee, when done well, is delicious, drinking is fun and we should put those two things together more often". In the founders native Australia, coffee is more than flavour, it’s part of the culture: a ritual, obsession, aesthetic, experience and community. Mr Black embodies that ethos and is committed to coffee having a space alongside the historical go-to's of evening drinks.

Ideal for the espresso martini lover in your life, Mr Black is rich with a luxurious edge. Already established with a full range of cold brews, Coffee Amaro, White Russians and more, they're celebrating the month of love by launching; Italo Disco.

Crafted with Brazilian beans and roasted for a dark, espresso roast with notes of caramel, dark spice and cacao, coffee connoisseurs will enjoy a long, bittersweet finish. Our editors recommend generously drizzling a hot shot of yours over a scoop (or three) of ice cream for the most delicious affogato you'll ever make.

The end of dry January is in sight, here's a treat from Laylo and us...

In partnership with Laylo

If like me, you're participating in dry January then you're likely planning what your first drink will be when the 1st of February comes around. If you see yourself toasting the end of your abstinence with a glass of red, white or rose then read on, we have an offer for you. As we've partnered up with premium wine brand, Laylo to give you £5 off their luxury boxed wine with our exclusive discount code.

Save £5 at Laylo with code 'JANUARY'

Founders Laura and Laura launched their luxury boxed wine brand, Laylo, in the summer of 2020 after wanting to enjoy a mid-week glass of wine without having to commit to a whole bottle. The smarter and more sustainable way to drink, a box of wine generates 90% less carbon than the same amount tine would within glass bottles.

So, if like us, you're looking at small sustainable changes you can make in your everyday life, switching to boxed wine is a simple swap that will enable you to enjoy your favourites wines for longer (Laylo's boxed wine stays fresh for up to 6 weeks) whilst being kinder to the planet.

Laylo equated that households who drink a bottle a week on average can save 20kg of carbon entering the atmosphere annually by switching to boxed wine. That’s enough energy to power a 42” widescreen TV non-stop, 24-7 for an entire month.

With each box 100% recyclable thanks to Laylo's clever pre-paid return scheme - they've partnered with Enval to ensure each tap and plastic liner can be entirely recycled. Simply add a pre-paid (recyclable) bag to your order and return up to 10 bags at a time in the post.

The Laylo team work closely with Master of Wine, Clem Yates to source their wine from the best independent winemakers with each wine carefully considered and chosen to be a real crowd-pleaser. Laylo is so committed to their selections that they even offer a 100% money-back guarantee if you don’t enjoy the wine.

Let us know

Channel your inner barista with this stylish machine...

Move over coffee machines, there's a new sheriff in town. Forget your fancy vanilla oat milk lattes, these days it's all about creamy, chocolatey goodness. That's right, we're talking about a hot chocolate machine. These machines have gone viral over the last few years, all thanks to the iconic Hotel Chocolat Velvetiser.

Not only do these machines look super chic displayed on your kitchen side, but they also promise to make barista-grade hot chocolate from the comfort of your own home. However, with the £99.95 price tag, it can be quite an investment. That's why we were overjoyed when we saw that Aldi had their own hot chocolate machine, priced at just £39.99.

Aldi are always bringing out the coolest kitchen devices (anyone remember the Aldi churro maker?) and this hot chocolate machine is no exception. Whether you are treating yourself or looking for that perfect housewarming gift, this will be sure to do the job.

The machine is designed with an automatic milk frother that heats up to 65°C with the touch of a button. Simply choose your favourite chocolate, pour it into the milk and watch the machine whip up a Starbucks-worthy drink in no time. The cordless copper jug will compliment any kitchen, and it is super simple to clean.

We've already ordered ours, and we can't wait to snuggle on the sofa, light our best luxury candle and enjoy a cup of delicious hot chocolate (with lots of whipped cream and marshmallows, of course). Our evenings have never looked better...

If you've seen the M&S Christmas advert, then you'll know that the star of the festive season is the M&S snow globe gin.

Available in two flavours, clementine and spiced sugar, it comes in a bottle stunningly decorated with Christmas scenes, filled with glitter and which conveniently lights up for the perfect centrepiece.

It's been so popular that individual bottles have already sold out online, however there is still a great deal to be had, if you're happy to bulk buy - if it's not all for you, you can buddy up with a friend and split the savings (if you're after single bottles, then do check out our other gin deals here).

So at the moment, you can buy a set of six bottles for £120, which works out at £20 a bottle, which is the normal price.

However, on top of that, you can currently get £30 off when you spend £200 online. So you can either double up on the case, buying 12 bottles in total, which averages out at £17.50 a bottle.

If 12 bottles sounds like a stretch, you can always supplement your order with some Christmas gifts, and remember you get free delivery on all orders over £100, so you're not wasting anything.

Bottoms up.

We're almost in December, and with the cold weather settling in, we can't think of anything better than a cuppa by the fireside, perhaps with a Christmas film playing in the background.

If that sounds like the dream to you, you'll be delighted to hear that you can get your hands on Pukka's best-selling tea advent calendar for a massive 50% off as part of a late Black Friday deal - making it just £4.99.

If you're bored of chocolate, then a tea advent calendar is a great idea - or a jewellery advent calendar, beauty advent calendar or even a sex toy calendar.

Instead of a chocolate a day, you'll be treated to 24 brews for every mood and occasion. This includes breakfast tea, after dinner tea, fruity, herbal infusions and everything in between. My favourites? Apple & cinnamon and licorice & cinnamon for that extra festive feel.

If you're not into herbal teas, don't worry, because you can also get a good old PG Tips advent calendar for over 50% off, for just £5.99. What better way to count down to Christmas?

The deals are only available for the next few hours, until midnight tonight, or in other words, the end of Cyber Monday.

Looking for a Black Friday air fryer deal? I don't blame you. As the owner of one, I can smugly tell you it's a kitchen appliance you won't regret buying.

Black Friday air dryer deals - quick links:

• Ninja air fryers: get over 25% off for Black Friday
• Amazon air fryers: save up to 48% off Tefal Actifry and other air fryers
• Currys air fryers: save over £100 selected air fryers

Fried food with a fraction of the oil from a normal fryer? What's not to love? They're super versatile, since they can cook chips, chicken and all sorts of dishes you want to make crispy, plus they're much easier and cost-effective to run than their alternatives.

So now that I've convinced you to make the switch, let's look at some of the best Black Friday air fryer deals around shall we? There are loads of great bargains, from Ninja to Tefal and more. Shop them below.

Black Friday air dryer deals

Is air fryer food healthier?

It has been found that air fryers use around 70 to 80% less fat than deep fat fryers, so yes, they're a much healthier alternative if you want at home chips.

Are air fryers worth it?

As well as the above point, using an air fryer will use less power than switching on and running your oven. Depending on what you cook and which machine you use, it does cook quicker too.

We're always feeling fancy.

Whisky is pretty much a staple over the festive period. What else is Father Christmas going to drink to keep him going when he does the rounds on December 24th? (Okay, maybe it's brandy, it's been a while since I did the whole 'leave a drink out for Santa' thing.)

Anyway, the point is, there are some brilliant Black Friday whisky deals on right now, and if you like a warming tipple as the winter nights draw in, we suggest it's worth taking advantage of them.

Now we're nearing the end of the Black Friday/Cyber Monday weekend, the deals are drawing to a close, so you'd better be quick...

Best whisky deals over the Black Friday weekend:

And with that, all that's left to say is: Cheers!

Want to stock up your booze cupboards? It just so happens that there are plenty of amazing Black Friday gin deals to be had, just in time for New Year's Eve celebrations - and here are some Black Friday champagne deals too to keep you going.

There are plenty of bottles of booze up for grabs, and if you know/are a gin lover then you'll be pleased to know the Amazon Black Friday mega sale includes some very tasty treats that will see you through the festive period and beyond.

These include my all-time favourite, Malfy gin, which is a very helpful 12% off on all flavoured bottles: I recommend the blood orange and grapefruit ones, you will never look back.

If classic gin is more to your taste, don't worry, there's also Bloom, Chase and Opihr in the sale.

Merry *hiccup* Christmas.

If you're a big fan of a classic London gin, then you'll want to take a look at the award winning gin from Opihr - a spiced infusion that will have you pouring one more (or two... or three...). There's also the Bloom London Dry Gin and the Thomas Dakin Single London Dry Gin available with hefty discounts, so there really is something for everyone.

In partnership with Russian Standard Vodka

After last year’s festive season was essentially cancelled, 2021 is gearing up to be even bigger and better than ever. It’s out with the Zoom parties and in with IRL gatherings. From family reunions to impromptu soirées with friends, it’s never been more important to have a tipple to hand at-home that will set the mood. However, forget sickly sweet eggnog, Christmas punch and Buck’s Fizz. Hosting in 2021 calls for a much more elevated and elegant approach. It’s time to raise your standards and say hello to Russian Standard Vodka.

So what makes this vodka different to others? Well, this award winning, premium Russian vodka has craftsmanship in its DNA. Made with 100 percent authentic Russian ingredients including winter wheat and glacial water from Lake Ladoga, it’s the number one premium Russian vodka in the world. Whilst other vodkas can leave you with a bitter aftertaste, drinking Russian Standard Vodka with its rich heritage and savior-faire ensures a much more pleasant experience. Distilled over 200 times in St Petersburg, all impurities are filtered out. Last year the brand was even awarded the Masters Award - the highest medal for spirits at the Vodka Masters, scoring between 90-100 points from every single judge in a blind taste test. Naturally pure and great tasting, this is the antithesis of highly processed vodka you may have endured on university nights out.

With a smooth, ultra clean taste Russian Standard is extremely versatile, meaning you can easily whizz up a drink to satisfy even the most demanding of guests. Team with soda water, lime and plenty of ice for a refreshing drink or gain some late night extra energy by using it as the base for a classic espresso martini. Its pure and balanced flavour means it can even be sipped neat - just like connoisseurs do in Russia.

Perfect for bringing old and new friends together this festive season, it promises to create memorable experiences and form new traditions. Best of all, even though it consistently wins gold medals for its superior taste, it’s still reasonably priced. This means you can make your guests feel totally spoiled without worrying about your budget. Affordable luxury and totally delicious, let the good times roll.

How to make a Blood Orange Champagne Mule

You will need: 30ml Russian Standard Vodka Juice of 1/2 a blood orange Juice of 1/2 a lime 8 leaves of mint 60ml chilled ginger beer Chilled champagne for topping Blood orange peel & thyme to garnish

Method: Combine blood orange juice, lime juice, vodka & mint. Stir and chill until ready to serve. Stir with ice & strain into glasses. Top with ginger beer & champagne. Garnish with blood orange peel & fresh herbs.

How to make a White Christmas cocktail:

Method: Run a lemon wedge around the rim of a martini glass Dip rim in sugar Add 60ml Russian Standard Vodka to a cocktail shaker filled with Ice, follow with: ½ TSP Vanilla Extract 60ml white chocolate liqueur 30ml crème de cacao 30ml milk Shake Well Strain into a Martini Glass & Serve

This pumpkin spice latte recipe is sure to get you in the holiday spirit...

Autumn is officially here and from the surge in harvest-themed Netflix films and burnt orange outerwear to the influx of falling leaves Instas, the holidays seem to be on steroids this year.

This of course means that we have entered pumpkin spice latte season, with PSLs seeing a 1000% spike as an online search term.

As cafés across the world release their take on the autumnal beverage, we've been looking into how best to make a PSL at home.

Brewsmartly.com spoke exclusively to Sanjay, spokesperson for Spice Kitchen, earlier this season to offer some insight into making the perfect Pumpkin Spice Latte:

Pumpkin spice latte recipe

Pumpkin puree

• The first step is to make the pumpkin puree. First you must slice, deseed and then devein your pumpkin.
• In a preheated oven, bake the pumpkin for 45 minutes at 190◦C (374 ◦F).
• Blend in a food processor until smooth.

Spice blend

• As you wait for your pumpkin to bake, you can start creating your spice blend.
• The perfect blend is as follows - 4 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 2 teaspoons of ground ginger, 1 teaspoon of ground cloves, and 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg.

Warm your milk

• In a pan, warm 2 mugs of your chosen milk (dairy or non-dairy alternative).

Combine

• Add 2 tablespoons of pumpkin puree, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, 1 shot espresso and half a teaspoon of your spice mix and whisk until smooth.

Sit back and enjoy!

• Serve with whipped cream, a dusting of cocoa powder and a cinnamon stick for stirring.

Why is the Pumpkin Spice Latte so popular?

'The Pumpkin Spice Latte has become a staple drink for Autumn,' explained Alex Ion, expert at Brewsmartly.com back in early September. 'It has become so iconic, particularly across both the US and the UK, that now the drink is synonymous with the season, as evidenced by the fact #pumpkinspicelatte has over 600,000 tags on Instagram already, and fall hasn't even arrived yet!'

And breaking down the spices, Alex continued: 'The spices used to create that distinct taste are comparable to a Thanksgiving Pumpkin pie, adding an almost nostalgic element to the drink and the season by association.'

BRB - off to make this ASAP!

Plus, shares her top remedies, too.

Hands up if you've ever experienced a sore, puffy stomach that left you feeling sluggish and in pain? If yes, then you've probably wondered what causes bloating and if there are any simple remedies for it.

As many as 25% of individuals are affected by troublesome bloating, according to a review published in the International Scholarly Research Notices of Gastroenterology.

Not sure what bloating actually is? If not, then lucky you - because if you've ever experienced it, you'll know about it. "Bloating is one of the most common gut symptoms people report," explains doctor Megan Rossi, registered dietitian and author of Eat More, Live Well. "Put simply, it’s the feeling of increased pressure in your intestine that in some cases may also cause a visible protrusion," she explains.

Some may call it an air baby, as your stomach will likely appear round and sticking out. Been there, done that? Keep scrolling for doctor Rossi's insight into the root causes and simple cures.

What causes bloating? Your guide

What are the main symptoms of bloating? 

Before we get started on what causes that painful, puffiness around your mid-section, it's worth covering the main symptoms, for those who aren't sure if they've experienced it before.

There are several different types, including intermittent bloating, aka the type that comes and goes over the course of the day. "This type of bloating is more common and is typically managed through diet and lifestyle," she explains.

The other type is continuous bloating. "Continuous bloating, on the other hand - bloating whereby you always feel bloated with no fluctuations over the course of the day - is less common and is best reviewed by your GP first," she advises.

What causes bloating? 

Good question - and not a question that has a straightforward answer, sadly.

"Bloating is a topic that falls victim many a latest ‘quick fix’ or ‘magic foods’ that promise to help beat it," Rossi explains.

How so? Well, many doctors claim that certain foods cause bloating - Rossi doesn't think they do - and that you need to do all sorts of whacky quick fixes (we're looking at you, apple cider vinegar shots) to 'cure' it.

"Bloating is not all your food's fault," explains the doctor. "We can be quick to blame what we eat for any gut issues, but the fact is, bloating can be just as much about our lifestyle and how you eat - not what you eat. There's also no superfood or supplement that'll magically fix it - no matter what you read about 'foods to eliminate bloating'."

Some common triggers include:

1. Wearing tight pants (for example, wearing gym leggings all day)
2. Not chewing your food enough
3. Having a stressful day
4. Drinking too many fruit smoothies and juices instead of eating the fruit whole
5. Holding in your farts
6. Chewing gum and other sugar free foods that contain added sweeteners ending in -ol

Is bloating normal? 

Another good question, because yes, to an extent, everyone will bloat a little. "The occasional bloating is totally normal - especially after a big meal or eating extra fibre," she explains.

Read our guides to the best collagen supplements and probiotics for women, while you're here.

What should I do if my bloating persists? 

Is your bloating starting to affect your day-to-day? Rossi reckons that it’s always best to be on the safe side.

If your gut symptoms are accompanied by unintended weight loss (that's more than 5% of your body weight in six months), blood in your poo, low blood iron levels or a fever, 'do visit your GP to rule out more troublesome causes,' recommends Rossi.

5 simple tips for easing bloating 

Some simple lifestyle and diet tweaks may ease your bloating if you experience the intermittent kind. "Unfortunately there is no one size fits all, but seeing a qualified nutritionist - and trying the below steps - could help," she explains.

1. Chew your food

Simple, but effective, ensuring you're chewing your food well is key to reducing your risk of bloating. "Aim for ten to twenty chews per mouthful," shares Rossi.

2. Opt for smaller meals

Across the course of the day, she recommends splitting your food intake into smaller meals to help with digestion.

3. Try gentle massage

Already suffering from a bloated stomach and not sure what to do? "Gentle stretching, abdominal massage and heat packs can help to release trapped gas," she explains.

4. Avoid tight clothes

Again, sounds obvious but can be really effective. "Avoid wearing tight clothes, such as gym leggings, where you can," she warns.

5. Rule out food intolerances

Still not sure what causes bloating and worried it could be something more serious? Do make sure that a food intolerance isn't causing your bloat. "Visiting a professional to ensure you don't have any common food intolerances that are causing the bloating is important," she concludes.

Bottom line: if you've tried the above over a four week period and still don’t have relief, it’s time to visit your GP, she advises. "It's important to rule out other causes such as coeliac disease, which can be done with a simple blood test," she explains.

Although a little bit of bloating is completely normal, if isn't normal for it to impact your day-to-day quality of life. Her new book, Eat Yourself Healthy, also offers an evidence-based step-by-step bloating guide.

In Partnership with Russian Standard Vodka

Let’s face it, the dismal British weather of late and the same-old-same-old formula for a garden party - think prosecco, favourite gins, and boxed wine - isn’t cutting the mustard anymore.

We need something else to give our garden gatherings a bit of a level up. And, whilst I can’t do much about the weather, I think I’ve found the answer on the drink front: Russian Standard Vodka. Some might say this classic tipple has taken a bit of a sidestep in recent years, making way for its gin cousins, but definitely not anymore. 

For your next summer party, if you want fancy vodka-based cocktails or the perfect short for a mixer, raise your standards (I mean, who needs another gin and tonic, anyway?) and give this great tasting liquid a bit of a whirl. It’ll put a smile on your friends’ faces and definitely make it a party to remember. 

(I don’t want to lecture you, but - side note - don’t forget this is strong stuff, so no going over the top. Else it’ll be a party remembered for all the wrong reasons.)

Back to the vodka. The brand can boast, and rightly so, that it’s proudly the number one premium Russian vodka in the world. Which is plainly obvious when you know the rich heritage, expertise, craft and passion that goes into making it. For a start it boasts real provenance being distilled in St Petersburg, which is the spiritual homeland of all vodka and, naturally, the home of Russian Standard Vodka. Secondly, it contains some of the finest ingredients; the pure glacial water from Lake Ladoga and the first-class Russian winter wheat that are blended to create this superior, smooth and clean tasting vodka makes it a right treat - you’ll really taste its purity.

And if you’re already a firm vodka fan, but want to try something more premium and a bit special, then this is definitely the one (trust me, this isn’t the stuff you swigged in your younger days and then winced at) - it’s superior, great tasting and oozes luxury. 

And I’m not the only one pro Russian Standard Vodka, either. This 200-times-distilled quality liquid is gold medal winning, too, backed by some of the leading judges in the industry. Last year, the brand was awarded the Masters Award which is the highest medal for spirits judged in a blind taste test. A triumph that truly champions its taste. 

I bet it’s really spenny, I hear you ask. Well it’s not actually, even though it’s consistently being crowned with gold metals and prestigious accolades. Yes, it’s an exceptional, crystal clear liquid flowing with luxury, but no it’s not expensive. This is an affordable luxury that definitely deserves a place at your next party. Pick up a bottle and find recipes you can try here. And like I said, whatever way you serve it - neat, chilled over ice, sipped slowly and savoured, mixed in a fruity long cocktail or paired with a mixer - your party friends will thank you for this new and quality addition. 

May I have an invite?

Sure, it's not Sardinia – but it's the next best thing.

Prime Day 2021 has arrived at the best possible time for those of us who booked a holiday in the blind hope that such things would, by now, be allowed. (When I say we, I of course mean me.)

Yep, I'd already bought a guidebook, a swimsuit and three disposable cameras, only to find out last week that the furthest I'm likely to get this summer is a deckchair facing the garden fence. So I'm taking action and buying back the serotonin the cancelled trip would have provided by going all out in the Amazon Prime Day sale.

From beauty deals to discounted Kindles, this year's savings are seriously impressive. (And they're only until midnight tonight. So if you haven't already shopped, really, what's keeping you?!)

The best Amazon Prime Day alcohol deals – quick links:

• Aperol Spritz duo – was £24.99, now £18.79 (save 25%) 
• Aperol Spritz Gift Pack – was £25.00, now £19.49 (save 22%) 
• Bollinger Special Cuvée Champagne, 75cl – was £43, now £38 
• Moët & Chandon Impérial Brut, Gift Box 75cl – was £40, now £37
• MALFY Con Arancia Sicilian Blood Orange Italian Gin – was £28, now £21.99

And while I've stockpiled plenty of skincare and homeware steals over the past couple of days – thank you to CeraVe and Le Creuset – there's one Prime Day bargain that I'm particularly proud of. Enter: this incredible Aperol Spritz deal.

I mean, it's practically a holiday in a glass. Here's everything you need to know.

So if you need me, I'll just be drowning my sorrows in front of a sun lamp with a glass of Aperol in hand and A Bigger Splash blaring from my laptop. Which is basically just the same thing. Right?

Have you bagged any bargain booze in the Prime Day deals? Let us know on social – @marieclaireuk

George Clooney is one of the most talked-about people in the world, from his sweet couple moments with Amal to his friendship with Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, stepping out to defend her on multiple occasions.

It is George's company that gets him talked about the most however, with the 60-year-old being one of the brains behind Casamigos - a company he sold for $1 billion.

Casamigos Amazon Prime Day: Quick links

• Casamigos Anejo Tequila, 70cl - was £62.99, now £58.15
• Casamigos Blanco Tequila, 70cl - was £49.95, now £45
• Casamigos Reposado Tequila, 70cl - was £57.49, now £50

Casamigos has shot back into the news this week, as Amazon Prime Day 2021 saw bottles of Casamigos flying off the shelves.

If there was a time to invest in a bottle of George Clooney's tequila, this is it.

'If you asked us four years ago if we had a billion-dollar company, I don’t think we would have said yes,' George told CNBC when the deal was announced, sharing in the wealth with his co-founders Rande Gerber and Mike Meldman.

BRB - off to stock up on all the tequila.

I'm a coffee addict (who isn't?) so I like to make sure I've got a good cuppa to get me going first thing in the morning, and therefore a good coffee machine is essential.

I'm due an upgrade, and lucky for me, Amazon Prime Day 2021 is in full swing, meaning there are deals to be had across everything from beauty products to Fitbits and Levi's jeans. And of course, coffee machines.

To take part in the sale, you need to sign up for an Amazon Prime Day account using the link below, or login if you already have one, and the discounts will magically appear.

Sign up now: Amazon Prime 30-day free trial

The best deal I've found this year is on a Nespresso Vertuoso Plus coffee machine, which is a quite astounding 62% off. It would normally be £179.99, but it can be yours for just £68.99, today only (the sale ends at 23:59 tonight).

The red machine is the one with the highest discount, but if you're more of a classic person, then you'll be pleased to hear the black one has a decent 50% off.

Now some coffee snobs might say that capsules aren't as good as fresh coffee drains, but I call BS. Having been drinking these for the past few years, I can assure you they taste just as good, if not better.

Plus you get to taste different coffee pods to mix things up a bit, and you can order some funky flavours too like caramel and vanilla if that's your thing.

Sold? Thought you might be. Treat yourself today and I'll see you at the next caffeine addicts anonymous meeting.

Amazon Prime Day 2021 is well under way, so don't miss your chance to snap up savings on everything from beauty deals to Yankee candles and Le Creuset pots.

But more importantly, treat your family (or yourself, we're not judging) to something you know will go down a treat: gin.

As a big gin fan myself, I've picked out some amazing gin deals I've found in the Amazon Prime day sale, including my all time favourite: Malfy (the orange and grapefruit are the best, take it from me), as well as Plymouth gin, Sipsmith, Hendrick's and more. You'll have to be quick though, because all the discounts end tomorrow at 11:59pm.

Amazon Prime Day gin deals: quick links

• MALFY Con Arancia Sicilian Blood Orange Italian Gin, 70cl - was £28, now £21.99
• Malfy Rosa Sicilian Pink Grapefruit Flavoured Gin, 70cl - was £29, now £21.99
• Edinburgh Gin Classic London Dry Gin 70cl - was £29.99, now £19.49
• Sipsmith Lemon Drizzle Gin, 50cl - was £24, now £18.50
• Hendricks Gin Midsummer Solstice Limited Edition Gin, 70 cl - was £35, now £28.99

Don't forget to sign up for your free trial of Amazon Prime below if you're not already a member, or you won't be able to access these deals!

Honestly, they had us at better than half price.

Have you bagged yourself a great bargain in the Prime Week sales? Let us know on social at @marieclaireuk

HelloFresh’s simple recipe boxes are a wholesome, eco-friendly way to eat. But don’t just take our word for it. Here’s how Marie Claire readers can get an exclusive discount off their first four boxes.

With the days finally getting longer and lockdown gradually lifting, we can think of things we’d rather be doing than worrying about what to cook everyday, what we have/don’t have in the fridge, and which fresh ingredients need to be used up ASAP. Which is why we think HelloFresh’s convenient recipe boxes are just about the best thing since sliced bread. 

HelloFresh makes cooking from scratch simple, with flexible meal plans to suit every lifestyle and taste. Just how does it work, you ask? 

Well, it couldn’t be simpler. 

Each week, you’ll get all the fresh, pre-portioned ingredients and step-by-step recipe cards delivered to your door, so you cook up a storm of delicious, zero-waste dinners. Plans are flexible, meaning you can skip a week, pause or cancel your subscription, and change your box size if you need to. You can also add extra portions to your box if you’re having more people over for dinner. The recipes are wide-ranging and cater to every appetite, household size and schedule. (Yes, fussy eaters – that even includes you!) 

What we love about HelloFresh is the sheer convenience of it. With fewer trips to the supermarket, pre-planned meals to look forward to, and little cleanup involved afterwards, you can take back your evenings and spend more time doing the things you like, with the people you love. 

Oh, and did we mention that sustainability is at the heart of everything they do? Not only are their ingredients pre-portioned for less waste, but they buy direct from local suppliers and deliver straight to the door, cutting out wholesalers and supermarkets. It’s also the first recipe box company committed to offsetting 100% of direct carbon emissions. So it’s both great for freshness, and great for the environment.

Above all, though, it’s how mouth-watering HelloFresh’s chef-created recipes are that make its recipe boxes so special. As delicious to eat as they are easy to make, the only difficult part is choosing which recipes to opt for. (Veggie meals, family meals and quick and easy meals to keep up with busy lives – you name it, they have it.) You don’t just have to take our word for it, though, because HelloFresh is offering Marie Claire readers an exclusive offer, and here’s how to get your hands on it. 

How Marie Claire readers can get an exclusive discount on HelloFresh

HelloFresh are offering MC readers 50% off their first recipe box, and 35% off their next three using the code HELLOMARIE50 at hellofresh.co.uk, so you can try it for yourself. (The voucher is valid for new customers only and expires on 31/12/2021.) 

Consider next week’s dinner sorted. 

Happy cooking! 

If, like me, you've been on Instagram a lot lately, you'll have noticed that slowly but surely, a new wine is taking over from rosé. Spotted in a chilled wine glass on the accounts of Lindsey Holland and Brittany Bathgate, it has a lovely orangey hue, giving it the name of orange wine. So what is it exactly? Despite its name, it is not made from oranges.

I reached out to the experts at Buon Vino - importer, retailer, wholesaler of naturally produced wines - to get the lowdown.

What is orange wine made of?

Orange and skin contact white wines have experienced a renaissance in the last few years. With the advent of Natural Wine, this ancient method of producing wine from white grapes has once again become popular with artisan producers and consumers alike.

Orange wine is made with white grapes but with maceration or 'skin contact' like a red. White grapes also contain an element of colour in the skins which varies according to variety. The colour imparts an orangey or pinky hue to the white wine during the maceration. The depth of colour generally depends on the length of skin maceration, a few days giving a lighter orange, several weeks a deeper darker hue.

What does orange wine taste like?

The skin contact also imparts different flavours and aromas, like spices, dried fruit, savoury elements, ginger, vegetables and more. Lastly orange wines have tannin from the skins like a red which gives them texture and structure in the mouth and helps them age well.

It is not a particularly dry wine nor is it a sweet wine, and the taste varies depending on the grape and the level of maceration, but some taste notes include honey and sone fruit.

Great wine is about emotion, when you drink it, you feel something unique and special and you want to know more; more about the wine, the life of the producer, the place that it comes from. That is what we are looking for with natural wines.

Orange wine food pairings

They go with almost anything. Superb with cheese, amazing with white meat, they work with chilli and other spices, Asian cuisine and often desserts too.

How to drink orange wine

It's not recommended for orange wine to be too chilled, the experts recommend a halfway house between a cold rosé and a room temperature red, so aim for around 12 degrees celsius. With natural wines such as the ones you can buy at Buon Vino, it's often advised to drink them young to retain the freshness.

Where to buy orange wine

Although some orange wines are available at the supermarket (Asda and M&S have some), it’s more widely available online. As to which ones to buy, Buon Vino recommend: An entry point into orange wine would be the Baglio Catarrato (£14.95), L’Orange from Courbissac (£26) or Slatnik from Radikon (£36), these are wines made with shorter skin contact, up to about 10 days to two weeks. A favourite with us is the Domaine de Bellevue Maceration (£30, pictured above).

More extreme versions are Judith Beck Neuburger Bambule 2019 (£29), Ageno La Stoppa (£34) and the Ribolla Gialla 500ml Radikon (£32.00) which spend much longer time on the skins.

That's our summer drinking sorted. Cheers.