Sqirl

This company makes the most amazing preserved fruit products and if you are in LA we highly recommend you try them out. You can also buy online so there is no excuse to miss out; these are well worth searching for. 

God Save The Queen tea egg

Just in time for all you royalists out there to celebrate HM The Queen's Diamond Jubilee, this humerous tea egg would put a smile on even the most serious face. 

Clarence Court Eggs

Now for something completely different, Clarence Court eggs are outstanding and it's amazing how much of a difference quality eggs will make to your home cooking. These are heartily recommended and great over the winter months when you need something a little richer in your diet.

Heinz Tomato Ketchup with Balsamic Vinegar

Heinz have really cornered the ketchup market with what is arguably the finest recipe of the age-old favourite. Now they have gone a step further by launching this new recipe that features balsamic as opposed to the more traditional white vinegar. It is available through the Heinz Facebook site and we're pretty sure it will be rolled out in stores too. It looks slightly darker than their regular brand and the white label has made way for a mysterious looking black design. Heinz's recent forays into different ketchup recipes including chilli, low-salt and organic have all been winners so this looks set to continue that trend.

The LGB Christmas gift countdown day 6

Welcome back to the LGB Christmas gift blog. If you have just joined us, we have been recommending some seriously cool items for you to look at in the coming days. Here are 7 more.

1.Today we'll begin with super-brand Louis Vuitton and this amazing chest. It's perfect for bedrooms and can store a huge amount. As you would expect, the build quality is second-to-none and it looks stunning with it's distinctive design features and LV edge. 

2.Prada have created this cool rock-steady keychain that is perfect for young ones or people who like something fun. Well worth a look as a stocking filler.

3.Dominoes is a tried and tested game that can be surprisingly fun at this time of year. Our favourite dominoes set is this amazing beauty from Bronze Bones. The original design is really striking and makes dominoes so stylish. This will look great on the coffee table of any fashionable home owner.

4.Art lovers will adore this fine book on Anish Kapoor, one of today's most revered sculptors. The print is gorgeous and really showcases his work well. Great to have ready on a  shelf to impress your Christmas guests too...

5.It had never crossed my mind that I would ever be writing of a brand crossover between Lego, Star Wars and Louis Vuitton. But artist Dale May has created Coco Vader and V3PO, and we love the results! This is a great example of far out ideas really working and we're sure the LV brand won't mind this extra PR one bit.

6.A gift for the family with new babies, the bugaboo bee is great for those with a busy lifestyle. It is slimline so it can easily fit into car storage as well as through narrow passageways and the like. It looks cool, plus it has the added advantage of being able to grow as your child does with various modifications that are available.

7.Yves Saint Laurent are or final pick of the day with this luxury tote bag. Simple, elegant and full of class, this is perfect for dedicated followers of fashion.

Please join us again tomorrow as we reveal the next 6 gift ideas.

The LGB Christmas gift countdown day 5

Eight brilliant products for you today, the LGB team do not rest- we are still out scouring the globe to bring you the best possible Christmas gift ideas for 2011.

1.DRx has created the best new Converse it's possible to get your hands on and they are a great gift idea. The Beetle Bailey and Popeye Converse are fantastic and look seriously cool. It's hard to choose which are best, so why not go for both? They are versatile and very cool.

2.This must be the world's coolest tool kit. Seletti have created this awesome tool box that looks so distinctive you'll want to frame it rather than set it to any DIY tasks. That said, it is perfectly alright to do so and this can very easily be considered a practical, if stylish, gift this year.

3.These Absolut Vodka cases are the height of class and perfect for the winter party season. Anybody who likes to show a bit of flair at social gatherings would really appreciate the limited edition wooden box with black and white leather covers.

4.Cute Birkin Bags are ideal for collectors or children with an eye for doll-fashion. These are great little numbers and available from Hermes, well worth a look.

5.Alexander McQueen is a name that will turn heads in fashion for many years to come and it is great to see his name doing so well. This clutch is fantastic and will be a perfect compliment to any serious party goer this year, definitely worth considering as a Christmas gift.

6.More vodka-related ideas now with the Belvedere gift pack, a bottle of the fine stuff encased in a fantastic wooden box with a study metal lid. This looks amazing and you'll keep the case long after the vodka has gone.

7.For all pet lovers, this elegant dog bed will be an item of interest. Give Fido a little love this Christmas with this futon-style resting place that looks relaxed and cool. It's available from James Perse in LA and we're pretty sure it will go down well with your four-legged friend.

8.Finally today we have Dinosaur Designs and their line of accessories and homeware items. These designs are seriously cool and give off a prehistoric feeling and are beautifully shaped. These would suit anybody who favours a more natural look in their home or accessories and we highly recommend them.

The LGB Christmas gift countdown day 4

Ten days to go… and 9 items to go with them. Have a look at these great finds…

1.We kick off today with these great clothing items for children. These days children's clothes are becoming increasingly fashionable and these items are up there with the best high street trends. They're ideal for youngsters and will be perfect for under the tree.

2.Kyocera knives are fantastic for the chefs amongst you and the knife sets on display here would be ideal to present on the 25th.

3.Singer Vehicle Design are one of the growing number of customisers of top end goods. In this case, cars can have a complete makeover from the Singer team, including restorative work as well as custom modifications to improve aesthetics and performance. If you have a car that's looking sorry for itself and could do with a new lease of life, Singer might just be able to help out. Perhaps a consultation would be a great gift for the car lover this year.

4.Hermes have designed these beautiful necklaces which are really distinctive and elegant. Well worth a look and our number 4 for today.

5.Confederate Motorcycles have created the Hellcat, an amazing-looking new model that will be a huge treat for bike fans. This could be the ultimate gift for those looking for something a little bolder this Christmas. It's a classic timeless look with top quality modern components and build. Another one for petrol heads.

6.The Volkswagen Cross Coupe Concept is a fantastic new look at a great model and is smaller than the current Tiguan. It offers all-wheel-drive, a hybrid power system consisting of two electric motors and a turbocharged gas engine, 20-inch wheels, and a touchscreen to monitor and control most vehicle functions. For those looking to impress, this would make a superb gift.

7.Presso have created this great Espresso machine which is available in time for Christmas. Resembling a giant corkscrew, this is a 'coffee press' and allows you to make top quality espresso wherever you are, providing you have access to hot water. It's a great looking device and useful- a welcome addition to any smart kitchen.

8.If you have ever fancied a chair made from recycled refrigerators then look no further. The Dirk Vander Kooij endless saloon table and rocking chair are a creative new design updating the old-time favourite and stretching it into the 21st century. These items are made from a continuous line of recycled plastic making them unique to behold, and surprisingly comfortable. Great for the modern furniture lover or homeowner this Christmas.

9.Finally for today, we'd love to draw your attention to Sound Pellegrino and their range of apparel. The bow ties in the picture are the highlight here, the striking yellow somehow avoids being OTT and gives a stylish edge to the smart casual outfit. Perfect for Christmas parties.

The LGB Christmas gift countdown- day 3

Hello once again and thank you for joining us. Shopping time is running out as we speak, but fear not as LGB is here to help with these cracking finds!

1.We’ll get the ball rolling with something for the party season. This Porsche Design wine cooler is fantastic and will go down very well with car fans everywhere. The looks are classic and reminiscent of a car engine. It’s sturdy and solid and we just love it.

2. These GTO cufflinks are stunningly beautiful and our ultimate gift pick of today. They are wheel-like in their appearance with what seems like a tyre running around the outside, but with imagination could just as easily be shields. The subtle blue colouring blends effortlessly with the sterling silver making this a tasteful yet distinctive item that will make a great gift.

3.The Family Meal is a new cookery book by Ferran Adria and published by Phaidon that focuses on simple, nutritious and delicious homecooked food. The layout is refreshingly simple and makes everything seem that much more achievable. This is a great gift for anybody who’s at home in the kitchen, whether they’re just starting out or a seasoned veteran in need of some fresh ideas.

4.The Diabloms Sterling Silver Te Amo ring is a beautifully cool work of art. With a cutting edge design, this is a modern ring that exudes both strength through the bold shape and femininity with a small heart cut out of each item.  

5.Next on our list today, Serena Linley have a beautiful candle set available in a variety of scents. The presentation is extremely elegant making it ideal as a gift for any homeowner. Interestingly, the glass in this set has been made specifically for Serena Linley in Murano, an island just off Venice that is renowned worldwide for its expert glass craftsmen.

6.These shoes from Charlotte Olympia are gorgeous and perfect for any Cinderella's you may know. The colours are a perfect blend and the raised platform and heel make a bold statement without losing class or elegance. If you can get hold of these before the big day, they would be ideal as a gift.

7.These gorgeous oversized plush animal toys are a great addition to any child's gift list. The lion is our favourite but it's also difficult to resist the giraffe, so make sure to check them out before it's too late.

8.Liquid Gold Baby favourites Colette have another fabulous entry here with these great card holders. The simple design is extremely attractive with a luscious blue lining and motif that really makes it stand out. A great addition to the fashion conscious individual's arsenal. 

9.Guy Bourdin is a true great in the world of fashion photography and this excellent book will give you an excellent overview of some of his work. This is a really wonderful book with some fantastic images that really pull you in. I would say that this would be right at home in any collection making it today's number 9 gift idea.

10.Today we finish with pictures by Tim Walker, another excellent fashion photography book that could accompany number 9. Tim Walker's work has featured in Vogue for years and has continually wowed the fashion world. Why not bring it home to wow your nearest and dearest this year?

Jack Daniel's limited edition black bottle

This year for Mr Daniel's birthday his namesake drink has gone back to black. Or back to Jack, if you will. Fitting in nicely with the rocker history the brand unofficially enjoys, this looks fantastic. JD has always been a great drink with iconic packaging, but this limited edition bottle ups the ante.

Valerie Confections

These delectable treats from Los Angeles are really worth a look. If you find yourself over there, check them out. Their toffee is particularly good and they also have a catering service that is totally top notch. 

Halfpops

These all-natural treats are delicious and in my humble opinion, far nicer than regular popcorn. The secret is in the name- by cooking these kernels for less time than usual, you can keep in the flavour and the goodness. Sweet. 

Heston Blumenthal at Home

This should be a cooking experience with a difference… Heston is a culinary genius, an Einstein of food, never afraid to break down the boundaries or shake up the establishment with simply unbelievable recipes. His unique ideas are usually reserved for his exclusive restaurants and TV shows, but now you can try them for yourself with help from his new book.

For anyone interested in taking their home cooking to the next level, this book should be a great aid.  Try your hand at everything from Sea Bass with vanilla butter to my favourite, Liquorice poached salmon.

Le Comptoir des Flandres

These French bakehouse treats are not only delicious, but come in a charming assortment of packages that hail back to a more relaxing time. The range is quite varied so there’s something for just about everyone- they would be ideal as gifts for the upcoming Christmas season.

Pizza East Portobello

I am loving the Pizza East Portobello restaurant situated in the middle of Portobello market. The restaurant has a super-cool relaxed feel similar to their big brother restaurant in Shoreditch.

Based in a restored Georgian pub with a new upstairs dining room and outside terrace perfect for the summer months, Pizza East offers much more than your average pizzeria. 

Whole beef fillets, pork belly, and baked salmon from the wood-oven, a fully stocked deli counter with cured meats and cheese from hand-picked Italian suppliers and hand-made pastries for breakfast, this place has it all. 

Vipp

When you think of the world's slickest loo brush it has to be VIPP.

Now they've brought out a salt and pepper mill as part of their 'Vipp Kitchen Tool's Collection'. As expected, they look as cool as anything and would fit into any kitchen or on any table.  

It's constructed with a swivel top in solid stainless steel and a ceramic grinder which has a wicked and satisfactory grinding sound! They come on their own with a cool and practical base. It also comes in a Limited Edition red colour which is fun.

Choc Delight

I've just experienced a little bit of heaven in the shape of a small ice cream that was placed at the side of my plate after having an amazing meal at Paper Moon in Milan.

This little delicacy of chocolate and ice cream combined should really be described with only one word, Bocconcino. These little gems of chocolate come from a little town just outside Pisa, and seeing as nobody does ice cream quite like the Italians you can only imagine how great these delights are.

They're from a company called Dai-Dai, they're presented in charming, old-fashioned packaging which looks absolutely stunning. I was left wishing for more. They're a treat for the mouth and the mind. 

Chanel Does Gum

I've just been given a tin of these uber chic black chewing gums.

Chanel, we salute you for keeping us fresh!

Fruute Tarts

Move over cup-cakes, it's time for something new!

'Mini tarts with big ideas', by Fruute are definitely the way forward. They only have one store which can be found on Santa Monica Blvd but I have a feeling this is the start of something big!

They use the best and most fresh ingredients to create these outstanding delights. Fruute's goal is, 'to know we made faces smile,' well you certainly did that! We're very happy customers! 

Urban Growing

This is so easy, I can't tell you!  

Each box comes with a wheel to idiot proof when you should sow, grow and harvest and then all you need to worry about is eating!!  Someone bought me the Limited Edition Gyo Box and my tiny little terrace is already overflowing with yummy veg.  

These little goodies are ideal for urbanites who want to eat what they grow and can be sown almost anywhere, even a little window box. So get cracking for £12.99 and remember, 'you are what you eat'.

Fat Radish

The Fat Radish is the name of a truly great restaurant here in NYC.

This is the type of restaurant you could spend the entire day in, enjoying the finest in culinary master pieces. I have two favourite dishes, the amazingly mouth-watering Sweet Pea Summer Pie, and the delicious Bacon Cheeseburger with duck fat chips. 

The Fat Radish is like a cool London restaurant in NYC. The menu is all over the place when it comes to the origins of the dishes, but that's what's amazing about the place - you're not limited by region in your choice of food.  

Fat Radish is a great concept and it's going to be a winner in this city, in every single way. 

Beekman Beer Garden

If you're planning a party in NYC and need a super cool venue, look no further.  

Beekman Beer Garden is on the North side of Pier 17 at Beekman and South, and as you can imagine has pretty killer views.  

The staff are great and the menus are quirky and fun.  

The cheesy quesadillas are a must!

Tiger Food

I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw my favourite childhood book had been brought to life by the V and A Museum's shop.  

For £3.50 you can actually buy a tin of Tiger Food! Disguised as orange crunch biccies, these awesome treats have been made especially for the V and A to go hand in hand with Judith Kerr's book, 'The Tiger Who Came To Tea.'  

Too cool for school!

Cola Mad

Yes I know we here at LGB are Cola crazy but how awesome are these cups?!  

Perfect for a Summer picnic of pack lunch.

Launched to celebrate 125 years of Coke, I love them!  £23.99 for 50 at Selfridges.

Soso Salts

Soso is a brand of high quality salts that come from a mine in a natural reserve in Southern Spain.  

You can find them at Harvey Nics Food Halls for £8.95. Loving the egg shape.

Bubbleology

This is something you're going to either love or hate!  

Bubbleology in Soho, London is a tea house that serves up flavoured fruit or milk teas that can come hot or cold. The funny bit is the chewy natural tapioca balls that you have to suck up through a jumbo straw. It's hard to explain so you'll have to take the plunge and just try it. I tried Cocoa Pearl and the Ginger Red. Both totally weird and wonderful!

The Wolseley Tea

The Wolseley is synonymous for serving a good English cream tea and so I was thrilled to try their delicious looking tins of tea blends.  

They're not too expensive at under a tenner and the refills are a bit less making it a little more eco! They also do a cute little tea trio.

Choc Star

If you're looking to throw a party and want to serve something truly unique in a quirky way, why not try hiring Choc Star, the van of deliciousness?

Choc Star serves Molten for cold days, Frozen or Iced for hotter days and Baked for almost any day. If it was me, I would have all four!  

I saw these guys at a festival last week and they really did rock!  

J'adore Paris Part Trois

I've been in Paris a few days now and admittedly, my love for this beautiful city had changed a little bit, but last night I went to La Societe, an amazing restaurant ran by the guys behind Hotel Costes making me fall in love with Paris all over again. 

This is a chic restaurant in every sense. The food is amazing and the style of the place is just plain sexy. La Societe is the latest hang out of the uber chic and to be honest, I can't blame them. The staff compare with those that work in some of the best restaurants back home in NYC. La Societe has put a new stride in my step when it comes to my love of the most sexiest city in the world. 

Today I awoke in Coste and went for a walk down towards Colette and into Goyard. I've totally fallen for their pink print, so terribly glamourous in every style they do. Stealing myself away, I walked on to my meeting with the amazing handbag design house Corto Moltedo and en route, discovered a fabulous beauty spot, Jardin du Palais Royal. Located in a beautiful part of Paris, Jardin du Palais Royal is just so French and completely stunning. On the square is also Corto's shop when you can happily fulfil your shopping addition. 

My day trip wouldn't have been complete without a look at the Ralph Lauren car collection. He has some of the best cars in the world here in what I think is the most perfect location. I have to say, I do love it when a huge power-house brand like RL use something like a personal car collection to market a brand. Just too cool. 

So, with only one day left in this city, I'm already sad at the thought of leaving, but happy to be here in my hotel room typing this to you while looking out at the sun setting in the most chicest city in the world. 

UK Tango

There's now a new way to drink soda, according to Britvic, a UK drinks company and distributor.

Now, saying that they've come up with a new drink that's going to change the way you get your soda fix is a pretty big statement, but I actually think they have it in the bag with their popular drink, Tango. 

Tango is an orange flavoured drink that they've added a turbo to and created an aerosol delivery system. This Turbo Tango has been developed by more than 40 companies to create a unique way of getting soda into your mouth.  Tango, as a company, have always been on the outside of the soda world with their mad adverts and marketing campaigns, but this new invention is a true hero product for their brand.   If you're going to be over in the UK and you see a bottle like the image, grab it and give it a go - you'll be pleasantly surprised! 

Well Seasoned

We want to introduce you to Well Seasoned, a charming website dedicated to promoting British seasonal produce. 

The best of the British seasons and the best of British food are brought together by Patrick, Alex and Twig under their campaign 'Food for The Here and Now'. Their purpose is to change the way the Brits eat food, for the better.

I particularly love their inspiring and funny blog - you can follow the three foodies on many adventures around the British Isles, learning a thing or two about the most delicious seasonal food along the way and how best to catch, cook and eat it!  The website is packed full of handy tips, recipes and news on what's good to eat when. There are seasonality charts relating to different food groups available on the site to download and stick up in your kitchen. 

It's a great movement championing the best of British and we agree, 'keep it seasonal'! 

The Godfather of Wine

I've just been to a wine tasting that was absolutely second to none.

A god of movies and now a god of wine, I've just ventured inside Francis Ford Coppola's bat cave to taste a wine that I am in love with, 'Archimedes'. Coppola's jewel in the crown is this magnificent full body Cabernet with a hint of Franc that made me want to pour another glass whilst writing this piece.

The wine honestly tastes as if it has been kissed by the sun. This is a wine you just have to admire, but also one you know the maths are just right for, in order for you to both love and enjoy.

You can get hold of the wine direct through Coppola's own website, or by visiting Wine, one of my new favourite alcohol related websites selling a range of Coppola's other great wines.

Coppola has made a wine that is award winning in every way.

The Aga Total Control

The Aga Total Control is the absolute ULTIMATE in stoves.

The Aga has been brought firmly into the 21st Century with a smart phone app allowing you to control your Aga from your iPhone.

Whilst looking like a traditional cast-iron range cooker, this Aga has electrical elements in the ceilings, walls and doors which means a baking hot oven in just 22 minutes, slashing electricity bills and making it so much more practical to use on a daily basis.

Marrying state-of-the-art technology with the advantages of cast-iron cooking The Aga Total Control costs £9,595 / $15,500. 

My Cup Of Tea

I love finding new teas and was particularly interested when a friend brought a box of  Strawberry Cream tea to my son's play date.  

'Are you bonkers?' I said with a vision of eight under eights bouncing off the play room walls.  'Trust me,' she said, popping on the kettle. Five minutes later she had poured this delicious concoction over cold water adding oodles of ice before blending on high, pouring into plastic cups with a straw and Voilà! It was the most delicious ice tea I'd ever tasted.

Made for little people but enjoyed by all!

Wow, Food on the L Train

Just watch, you will be mesmerised.

This is how to dine in style. The guys behind this are just so cool.

Selfridges Love-in

Selfridges and Coca-Cola seem to be having something of a love-in and you can be a part of it by purchasing their limited edition celebration bottle to commemorate the Coca-Cola mile stone birthday of 125 years.

The love-in started when Coca-Cola celebrated Selfridges' 100th birthday with an exclusive and very cool Selfridges' Coca-Cola bottle in yellow. This bottle was first seen in 1900 on the shelves of most department and grocery stores. The bottle was nicknamed 'The Straight Wall Bottle' and by looking at it you can see why.

This bottle is a going to be a part of Coca-Cola's history as well as a collectors piece. We're predicting seeing so much more from Coca-Cola as they celebrate the 125th birthday, so watch this space.

Coco di Mama

If you're a banker on London's Fleet Street or an Italian foodie at heart, get yourself down to Coco di Mama pronto.

It's been open for a few weeks now and they created quite the stir last week with a free lunch deal. It's open for breakfast, lunch and coffee and has a great selection of hot and cold Italian delights. The pasta is cooked to perfection and the sauces have been well thought out and are delicious, the lasagne was flying out when I stopped by yesterday.

The thing I loved most was the atmosphere which really hit the mark, the service was superb and better still, it came with a smile. 

Sossbox

Do you, like me, get annoyed by your coffee and tea going off?

This is your answer - a brand called Sossbox, the scientists of box sealing. Sossbox has created a box system reminiscent of the Tiffin boxes from india. They are all compartmentalised boxes with a unique design to keep what is inside the box completely fresh.

If Apple designer Johnny Ives designed anything outside of Apple this would be it. This is a box design that'll stop you spending your dollars on Starbucks as you'll be busy making your own great tasting coffee exactly how you like it. Sossbox goes on sale at the being of next month, get ordering now if you what that perfect tasting coffee again. 

Heston at The Mandarin

I know it's been open for a while but I couldn't resist an invitation to Heston Blumenthal's latest craze of a restaurant at London's Mandarin Oriental last night.

It wasn't perhaps as mad as I thought it would be and I wish they had made more of an effort sprucing the old dining room up and some Heston inspired cocktails would have been nice, but when you cut through the minute details, it was pretty exciting!  

I started with Savoury Porridge from 1660 which was loaded with cod cheeks and was quite delicious, while my date went for Salamagundy, aka chicken oysters which were truly ingenious and impossible to explain.  

We then shared the beef and triple cooked chips which were a triumph and to finish, the Tipsy Cake which was spit roasted pineapple with a twist - you could see them turning in an old fashioned rotisserie through the glass kitchen wall. All in all a culinary triumph!

Bosco

This is a little bit of history. Bosco is a brand of drink and pouring chocolate that harks back to 1928, it's been around for a long time.

This is a new product and one you can purchase through Dylan's candy store or candy.com and I am telling you, it is amazing. This retro brand of chocolate looks like it's from the set of Tim Burton's Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory. It is truly delicious.

Bosco is the name if you want to be a little bit different in the chocolate world, 'Bosco' is the word that'll be on your tongue!  

Skinny Pepsi

Check out the new skinny Pepsi Can launching this month for New York Fashion Week. 

According to Pepsi the new look is a 'celebration of beautiful, confident women'. It's not an understatement to say there's been a some controversy around the new slimline look, but from an aesthetic point of view, we think it looks kind of sexy! 

Pure Green Vodka

Pure Green Vodka is an award-winning organic vodka of the very highest quality. 

After two years of research, Pure Green discovered the perfect location in Cognac, south western France, a place offering optimum conditions for growing winter wheat, the ingredient at the very heart and soul of their vodka. 

Carefully farmed organic winter wheat is harvested and distilled six times to create a smooth and clean distillate with fresh spring water used to blend the spirit. There are no chemical fertilisers or pesticides involved in the process. 

Their packaging and distribution is also carefully thought out, with the benefit of the environment at the forefront of all planning. 

Visit their website for more details and for some mouth-watering cocktail recipes! 

Mrs Kibble's Sweetie Shop

I always smile when I see a brightly coloured jar of old fashioned sweets, it takes you back to being a child and spending one's pocket money.

I was randomly walking through London's St Christopher's Place near Selfridges, when I stumbled across this adorable little shop. Its walls are covered, floor to ceiling with delicious looking scrumptiousness which would make even Willy Wonker proud.

The website is also rather fun and you can create bespoke jars as presents with personal messages.

The Henry Root

I like to try new pubs when I hit London and The Henry Root on Park Walk in West Brompton is fabulous. I love everything about this place.  I love its laid back attitude, its food, its staff and its friendly atmosphere.  

I went with a bunch of friends last week and we shared a mound of plates, all digging in over Bloody Marys. The Glazed pork cheek dumplings went down a treat, as did theLasagne and of course, we had to finish with crumble, cake and choccie tart. Delicious!  

The menu changes daily and it's always seasonal which appeals to me.

It's open from elevenses to 11pm during the week and does a mean brunch starting slightly earlier at 9.30am on the weekend.

Last minute Valentine

If you've left it a bit late and are in need of a last minute V Day gift, you can never go wrong wih chocolates!  But there are two strict guidelines to adhede to and they are s follows:

You must find out what type of chocolate tickles her fancy, it's no good buying the finest dark cocoa money can buy when she's a Cadbury's addict and vice versa.  
However tempting, don't go big, remember good things come in small packages, but not too small as she'll think you're trying to tell her something.  

Any of the below will be fine teamed with a bunch of beautiful long stemmed red roses and a bottle of Champagne. Forget the lingerie, that's her job and if you hand over your present first thing on the 14th I guarentee she'll be rushing for the nearest Agent Provoc!

This Small Hand Painted Heart Polka Dot from Rococo Chocolates is charming and perfect for any lady.  £7.95

I love this Heart Cut OUt Box by Artisan du Chocolat, it's beautiful packaging and very special for £20. And if you're going the Artisan route, why not grab one of their Love Potion No9 Hot Chocs for £6.50

Prestat is always a winner and the box itself is good enough to ear. £15.98

A favourite with those who like their dark choc, these Dark Champagne Truffle hearts £11.75 from Charbonnel are old school but utterly delicious.

The Potting Shed

Potting Shed Creations, Ltd is a US company founded in 1998 offering all sorts of wonderful products from the garden.

Elegant and authentic in design, Potting Shed products are handmade from sustainable materials. We especially love the Potting Shed 'Grow Bottles'. For just $35 you can order a kit to produce your own herbs indoors. Our favourites are the mint and basil, but you can grow chives, parsley and oregano too! You can also purchase a replant kit, letting you start all over again! 

If you're based in the States you can shop online in the Potting Shed from the comfort of your armchair. 

Kusmi Tea

Kusmi Tea approached us after seeing our blog about Løv Organic and drew our attention to their brand new New York tea shop on the Upper East Side, and it is quite something! 

Kusmi Tea is a French organic tea brand and for 140 years they've offered the world the finest in high quality tea blends. Green tea blends like Green Bouquet, Spearmint green tea or Detox, Black tea like Prince Vladimir and real estate tea such as Darjeeling, Assam, Ceylon. Kusmi Tea is also known for its red teas and its delicate herbal teas.

We sent ourselves along to the NY Kusmi tea room and discovered a very warm and inviting place. The aroma of many different teas hits you as you enter the shop. With what seemed like thousands of different teas on display there is much to take in and lots to choose from! We've definitely bookmarked Kusmi Tea and are already regulars! 

Luckily, Kusmi tea is sold all over the world, but for ease you can buy online, check it out for the most amazing teas. Right, I'm off to make a brew! 

Wine

Harvey Nichols in London's Knightsbridge is always a minefield of great products and I was happy and slightly amused to see their great range of affordable wines.

They each have an adorable little image on the front and would make any hostess smile. The French Rouge has notes of blackberry and herbs making it perfect for these cold Winter nights, £8.25. Their white, a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand is bursting with fruits and tropical tastes and comes in at £12.50. 

My pick has to be the rose which is a gorgeous light pink colour, (just how it should be) and will take you in to Summer with ease. It's their very own pick, and flavours dart from raspberries and strawberries to cream and spice. This Rose is dry and utterly delicious at £10.  

Pop in to the super store if you're in London or have a look online at Harvey Nichols.  

Hi-Chew

We LOVE these tasty chews from Japan and always have a hidden stash somewhere in the LGB offices. 

Hi-Chews have been around since 1899. Founded by Taichiro Morinaga in an attempt to make nutritious confectionary that appealed to Japanese children, it's now one of the largest and most respected leaders in the confectionary industry. 

Hi-Chews come in 8 delicious long-lasting flavours: Grape, Strawberry, Green Apple, Mango, Melon, Orange and their latest recruit: Banana.  

You can find Hi-Chews pretty much everywhere across the US. If you're based elsewhere, check out trusty Amazon for supplies. 

Chocolate Rules

How ridiculously cool is this?!  

Individually wrapped 8g bars of delicious chocolate.  

Chocco brand TCHO has come up with this awesome idea that quite simple makes sense!! You can buy monthly supplies of their chocolate in fun little jars that can sit on your desk. The most fun of all is their $180 'Year's Supply' which would make anyone smile, and don't worry, it's not all sent at once, so no chance of overdoing it! The easiest way to buy is online.

Løv Organic

You could say that I'm a bit of a tea addict and with that label, I could quite easily sample teas all day!  

When these Løv Organics samples arrived on my desk I couldn't wait to get in to them. The packaging is adorable and any of the dozens of products would make the most beautiful present!

My favourites were the Linden Mint and the Pure, which is good for detoxifying. Personally, I prefer the muslin tea bags as opposed to the loose tea which does come in fabulous coloured tins.

Løv is stocked across the globe, so to find the one nearest you, check out Løv Organic.

Lick Frozen Yoghurt

Lick started when two school friends decided they were going to make and sell frozen yoghurt and ice cream from a trike during their Summer holidays.  

A few years down the line they have a wicked little shop in Brighton (the UK's sunniest city) and they not only serve customers who visit the shop but they also stock many stores with their delicious Lick Natural Frozen Yoghurt.

Check out Lick Yoghurt for more info, a fun blog and some wicked t-shirts.

Boxing Day Chill-Out

If like me, you like to stay in your PJs all day on the 26th and watch terrible old movies then this is an idea that might appeal.  

Love Da Pop was born out of the love of popcorn. Three friends with a passion for the pop, decided to make a business out of the stuff and are working like maniacs to get their name out, and it's paying off.

The popcorn is handmade using organic corn and it's delicious! They sell white chocolate, sea salt and black pepper but are working on new flavours and ideas all the time.  

They'll also try out any weird and wonderful flavours you may come up with.  

To get in touch, mail tom@lovedapop.com 

1 DAY TILL CHRISTMAS

With only 1 day left you'll need to pull something pretty impressive out of the bag, and this D & D delight will surely be a smash hit with any family, friend or colleague.

Perfectly named, 'Help is on the Way' it come is three sizes ranging from $60 to $135 and you can collect this delightful gift box in store or have it express delivered.  

It's filled with cookies, popcorn, nuts, tea and much more and to make it even more special, I would pop an old classic like 'An Affair to Remember" on top!

Order online or pop in to your nearest store

Jamie's does it again

Like most cities, London always seems to have a steady flow of restaurants opening and Barbecoa is certainly not one to miss!

Jamie Oliver and Adam Perry Lang have gone back to basics with traditional, global cooking techniques to create this slick new East End venture. And, if you need some prime beef for lunch the next day, you can saunter across the road to their very own butchers shop.  

For bookings call 020 3005 855 or visit their website.

Cocomaya

I've known about Cocomaya, the fine chocolatier and artisan baker for quite a few years now. They've always had great press and their shop is one of the most inviting in town, nestled in what my grandmother calls 'the village'  aka Connaught Street.  

I first slunk in for a cheeky selection of chocs many moons ago and I must say I was a little disappointed. Fast forward a few years and I'm VERY impressed. The shop has doubled in size and they've extended their menu to delicious pastries, cakes and even perfect little sandwiches. If you're trying to woo someone, this is the place to be, I dream of their mini pan au chocs!  The best news is that they will now work with you to create bespoke naughtiness and will even dream up your own personal chocolate flavour or shape.  

No wonder they've got new shops popping up all over town. Check out the website for more information.

Boxed Water

Part sustainable water, part art project, this intriguing new water company has certainly caught my eye!  

The idea was to create yet another water brand but they wanted to be kinder to the environment and altogether a little different. They took inspiration from a tried and tested favourite - the milk carton!  

They seem to have thought of everything and even send their boxes flat packed to the fillers. With 10% of profits going to reforestation and another 10% going to water relief foundations, you need not feel naughty about buying bottled, or should I say boxed, again!  

For suppliers, which are all over the States, check out the website. 

Le Whif

Le Whif, the guys that brought you the breathable chocolate and the coffee kicker without a bar or a cup have done it again. This time they are not appealing to our naughty side, they are turning their attention to something a bit more healthy - vitamins.

So, the future according to Le Whif consists of consuming everything through an inhaler, no more pill popping which is so 1990's. What's more, the future is here - well, to be precise, the future will arrive next year. 

The idea is simple. You won't need to consume as many vitamins as a dose by inhaler will go straight into your blood stream, bypassing your stomach which is better for you and means you can avoid all pill capsules.

Le Whif is moulding the future, and while doing so, they're stepping on the sneakers of the big boys, from the chocolate companies to the vitamin companies... 'Smell my Le Whif', I hear them cry, and 'wow' is all I can say. 

Pop

Healthy and chips should never go together but they do with this great brand Pop Chips.

I first came across this brand in Whole Foods on 14th, and I have not looked back. Each packet is only 120 calories and with that you have a delicious tasting snack. In the office there is a war going on over which one we like the best and I can only say as I am writing this I like the original flavour, but the office consensus is that the barbeque flavour is the best.

The pop chips come in rice, potato or corn and all of them are amazing. The other thing we like is that this top design chips company remind us of Voss when it arrived a while ago in NYC and turned the water world in to the new must- have commodity. Well, we think POP has done this.

Mad Hatter's Tea

If you're in to your tea, then head for The Sanderson Hotel in London.  

Not only is it a super-cool hotel which often gets forgotten but it serves up incredible good food. Head Chef Peter Lloyd has come up with a wicked Christmas 'Mad Hatter's Tea'.  The original 'Drink Me' bottle which you'll all remember sets the scene but this particular potion tastes of a traditional three course Christmas lunch, weird but totally yummy!

The Mad Hatter's Tea is served daily from 2.30pm and is a reasonable £25 a head. 

Nose to Tail Sleeping

Ok, this is an insight into something that we think is going to be great.

The guys that brought you the most amazing 'nose to tail' restaurant in the UK, St.John, are now opening a hotel. It is set to open in December in London, England.

When I was last in the UK I was so happy when a friend of mine took me to this mecca of food heaven. St John's Hotel has some great ideas; the rooms are perfect for every traveller's need and not over complicated. The light switch does what its told and the TV turns on and off, so it all sounds great. There is a simple elegance to a hotel like this. 

Now, do not expect the Four Seasons, as this is not it, but do expect some amazing food and a bedroom that is beautifully simple and stylish. As I have found out in London it's all about where you stay and how far away your meeting is from your digs, the bottom line is, if you are looking for a great hotel in the WC area then this should be top of your list.

Dom Perignon Wedding

If you are looking for something special to bring to a wedding as a present then look no further than Dom Perignon.

They have created a wedding service - you can order the bottle with the bride and groom's names on it. This could sound odd, but it comes in a special box that is just stunning. There's also a limited edition silver label on the bottle.

If you think about the truly great, high profile weddings over the last 15 years or so, there has only been one fabulous name on the Champagne list and that is Dom Perignon. The fairy tale wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana was one of those great weddings that had this amazing Champagne.

It is only available for special order so make sure you talk to them way in advance, so that you bag this really special and thoughtful present for your friend's magical day.

Candy Queen

As if I couldn't love Dylan's Candy Bar more! The beautiful brain child (Ralph Lauren's daughter) behind America's most mouthwatering kingdom for candy can do no wrong.

Not only are her shops like modern day Charlie and the Chocolate Factories and she creates sweets by seasons which is too darling for words, but now, you can order personalised jars!  

Check out the website where you'll find hundreds of names to choose from, filled with Dylan's scrumptious new bubble gum for only $14.  

The perfect stocking filler or present for a sibling.

Boylan

Boylan is a drinks company that has been going for a long time, it started about a 100 years ago. Boylan is based in New Jersey, so living in NYC you should know about it, and if you don't then here is your wake up call.

This is the best bottled drinks company in town and I promise you, they are delicious. My new favourite is the lemon soda, it's the first ever drink I've liked that is actually good for your hips, at only zero calories. So cool.

If you have not picked up one of these great bottles or seen at a hotel, then you have been living under a rock. You know, I wish I had been living under that rock so I could discover these drinks all over again! I would definitely try the Cane Cola first... 

The Best New Pizza in Town

Pulino's pizzeria is the brain child of amazing restauranteur Keith McNally.

if you haven't yet been to this restaurant to fulfil your guilty little love affair with pizza then waste no time in making your way to the best pizzeria in town. If you want to check out one of New York's coolest new chefs then this is your place, as Nate Appleman is sub zero.

How does McNally do it? Every restaurant he's ever opened has such a different vibe, but all are absolutely delicious and always packed.

This is the restaurant making pizza cool all over again.

A Mouth Full Of Jelly

My favourite London jelly makers Pompas & Parr really going the next step with their beautiful creations.

Come December, they will be showcasing 'Taste O Rama' at the Harley Gallery. Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom will be on the menu and guests will be whisked through the secret underground rooms before watching the screening and enjoying bits of the movie with their taste buds.

For more information visit the website  or to buy tickets, go to TicketWeb. 

Otarian's Saving the Earth

Radhika Oswal has a vision and it's a pretty big one.  She wants to save the Planet and with restaurants in New York and more opening in London, she's making a good stab at it.  

Her philosophy is to serve up good healthy, vegi, local food and when they say local, they mean local with their 'no air-fright policy' on all ingredients! The Tex Mex burger and sweet potato chiplets was utterly delicious and the children on the table next to me were happily tucking in to a mouthwatering looking chocolate mousse. The restaurants are pretty cool too with almost everything being made from recycled materials from the chairs and tables to the light fittings and floor!

So if you want to make a small but meaningful to our planet, get yourself down to an Otarian near you!

Hel Yes Pop Up Sensation

Can furniture be made from trees thinned out from the forest?  

Can a new dinner set be created from donated plates?  

Can a restaurant gather ingredients straight from the forest?  

Can something new come out of foraging the old?  

These are all questions Hel Yes have put to the test in their quirky pop up retaurant in East London. The temporary restaurant and exhibition thought up and created by a small team of Finnish designers and foodies is truly spell binding. With food like 'spruce cures beef with foraged herbs' and 'liqourice creme brulee', it's not everybody's cup of tea but it quite a production and the atmosphere is pretty electric.

It opened last Wednesday and it's near impossible to get a table. It's only open for another week or so so it's worth trying your luck and if you can't get a reservation, it's definately worth a peek this weekend. No reservations necessary for drinks! Check outhttp://www.helyes.fi

Plantation

The guys over at Plantation, the fabulous rum maker, have made the most special rum, and you should know about it.

Rum from Jamaica, Trinidad and Barbados are no doubt the most amazing, and Plantation has used this local way of making rum, steeped in history to each of the islands, giving you a choice as to which amazing blend you like.

If you're a big rum fan, you must try their 5 year old rum from Barbados. Sipping on this wonderful drink (on the rocks - as the locals do) takes me right back to sitting on the beach outside the amazing Sandy Lane hotel with the sun going down. 

Cup Cakes

Elenis, the cookie-makers make the most heavenly cup-cakes and the best bit of news is that if you live in New York City and you order before 3pm, you can expect same day delivery. Oh, how I love the states!  

The most popular has to be the Manhattan which comes to $35.40 for a dozen, giving you a mix of chocolate and vanilla with scrumptious buttercream in a rainbow of colours. You can also personalise your cup-cakes for a special occasion and for $48 you can create your own cup-cake with a favourite picture.  

Check out their edible website. 

Recette in NYC

It may not look much at first glance but Recette, on West 12th Street is getting great reviews and is serving up unbelievably delicious food by some pretty amazing chefs!  

I love that they encourage you to share plates, so no issues with 'I wish I had ordered that!' Menus will be changing all the time depending on what's fresh and in season but the feel behind the dishes are true American classics with a twist. The Salt Cod Fritters are an absolute must!  

Call 212 414 3000 to make a booking.

Juice it Baby

After 2 weeks of eating pasta in Italy this was a welcome site on my desk this morning.

A simple idea made easy without all that sticky mess in the kitchen. Ingenious company 'Radiance' will do all the hard work for you. Offering both three and five day programs for the more hard core detoxers out there, 'Radiance' will deliver to your door five juices for each day of your cleanse.  A fresh lemon tonic drink to kick start the digestive system, three delicious fruit and vegetables juices and my favourite, a cashew milk for a quick protein fix.  

The juices are combined with carefully selected supplements and they also throw in tips on how to carry on post cleanse. Get ready for a serious Summer blues regime and e-mail info@radiancecleanse.com

Street Food

I know I must stop banging on about food but I saw this and couldn't stop myself.

King of the London Dumpling scene, 'Ping Pong' has opened a Chinese street food place called 'Now' which serves over the counter delicious chinese take out all day long.

I guess the idea of a Chinese brecka sounds pretty revolting but it's not what you think - 'Now' has come up with a whole load of revolutionary healthy Chinese day breakers like rice milk porridge with a huge range of toppings from blackberry to palm sugar. The custard swirl buns are pretty wicked too!

For lunch or dinner I'd definitely go for the famous dumplings and snack on the black sesame and goji berry snaps. For caffeine addicts they have a plethora of black, green and white teas so something for everyone really. 

Now is located at 22 Liverpool Street, London.

The Anthologist

Nestled on Gresham Street in London's East End, The Anthologist, with its 'open all day' bar, skinny cocktails and fabulous deli is a sure hit with local and City folk.

Following the huge success of The Refinery in Southwark, The Anthologist is Drake and Morgan's third venture and I must say it's impressive! I love the feel of the open plan kitchen where you can see the chefs at work.

The burger is fab and my Skinny Grape Martini at 93 Kcals (adore the fact that they disclose this) was a total winner. Word on the street is that another Drake and Morgan treat will be opening later this year! For reservations, call 0845 468 0101

Dog Love

If you are like me and you love your dog then you will like cool dog kafe.

This is a bakery like no other, it only specialises in the best dog treats and my dog has tried them all. If she could talk that what she would say?!

The best and cutest of all of them, and I think you'll agree, is the peanut butter puppy cookie and they are even good for you and I.

If you have a dog or even a friend with a dog, then this is the perfect present.   

Bags of Vitamins

I really love everything about this product.   

Dr Steve Rothwell is a man dedicated to sustainable and environmentally friendly farming and his farm in Hampshire is the only farm to hold the Conservation Grade status because of it. He holds a PhD in watercress and is most certainly the man in the know when it comes to baby leaves! His products look great and taste even better.  

His brand has launched with 'A ruddy gorgeous mix of Wild Red', Super Hot Rocket', 'Nose Tinglingly Peppery Baby Watercress' and my all time favourite, 'Shoots and Leaves', pictured. It's a yummy mix of pea shoots, baby spinach and baby chard - a great source of folic acid and vitamins. 

For stockists, check out this website. 

Spellbound by Sandwiches

I am so spellbound by sandwiches right now, this weekend I ate THE most amazing sandwich from Wichcraft. Forget about any other sandwich for this is truly the King of all sandwiches.

Wichcraft is the brain child of Top Chef Judge Tom Colicchio, Sisha Ortuzar and also Jeffery Zurofsky and I can only say thank you.

They have give the common sandwich a new look and a new taste with wonderful combos for instance - chopped chickpeas with roasted red pepper and black olives, all these ingredients together just make your mouth water. Wichcraft has multiple locations in NYC ,San Francisco and Las Vegas baby and they are the wonderful dark horse of the sandwich world.

The sandwiches from Wichcraft can be compared to wine pairing, they pair wonderful ingredients with such amazing artisan bread to give you the bite to die for. If you pop into Wichcraft then go to the one on 11 East 20th Street  you may just see me there chomping down on my favourite sandwich, but seriously, of all them are just superb - in particular the meatloaf and cheddar sandwiches.

Wow, after this weekend I could live in Wichcraft, they've certainly managed to put the most wonderful food spell over me! 

Rabbit in the Moon

The New York trend of UK pub it seems is here to stay, as last night we went to Rabbit in the Moon.

This great looking new gastro pub located on West 47th between 5th and 6th is amazing and has the great feel of Beatrice's but it also has a really relaxed feel as well.

The food is fabulous as are the drinks and I think this is definitely the new contender of one of the best places to go in NYC. The crowd in this place are amazing considering it has only been open a month.

Rabbit in the Moon is a place that you'll fall in love with and want to come back again and again. 

Boxsal

Forget about your lunch box as here is what you should be taking to work, this is the eco reusable Boxsal.

The guy over at Boxsal have given a new twist to the picnic or the office lunch. The Boxsal lunch box is made out of cardboard with wild graphics over it. Boxsal comes with all the right implements and of course these are all eco utensils.

Boxsal does not make your lunch for you but they do give you the coolest packaging for your food.

Firing Marshmallow

This little invention is so much cooler than a water pistol and will have your kids or friends running around the garden for hours.

These pump action devices fire mini marshmallows about 30 feet.  It holds 25 mallows in a cool see through chamber, is light to carry and can be thrown in the dishwasher.

http://www.marshmallowville.com/ sell loads of different options from the Camo and Cheetah Shooters (pictured) to M Force pistols and crossbows and range from $8 to $50.

Ice Ice Baby

When this appeared in my inbox a few weeks ago, I knew I had to have one, the colours were good enough to eat!

The 'Quick Pop' maker is truly revolutionary when it comes to making ice lollies. You store the unit in the freezer ready for a hot day and hey presto, you're ready for action!  

You can get creative with the ingredients you use and the colour combinations you want to rock. I'm quite excited about the idea of a yogurt and nut pop, or a chocolate milk one. The unit can make up to nine pops before it needs re-freezing, they take only minutes to make with no wires or electricity.  

The machine costs £39.95 and can be purchased at http://www.zokuhome.co.uk

Chewing Gum

I found this gum at the counter in Whole Foods and I'm hooked.

It's unlike conventional gum which is loaded with artificial ingredients, Peppersmith is made using the best quality, real mint and natural chicle (sap from the Sapodilla tree), meaning no funny preservatives or chemical bases!

The thing that caught my eye was the cool but simple retro style packaging which works like a box of matches, and the coolest thing is, when you push the box open, it comes with a set of little paper wrappers to use when you've had enough chewing! The only down side to this wonderful product is the the flavour doesn't last long, but in my mind that's a good thing and reinforces the fact that it's so natural.

They're working on spearmint and cinnamon which I can't wait to sample, buy on line at Peppersmith or from most health food shops.

The Best Burger

There is this naughty little secret and it's called Blue Nine Burger.

This 3rd avenue burger joint is nothing to look from the outside, but please - do not judge this book by its cover, as this IS the best burger joint in town.

Blue Nine Burger is on 3rd between 12th and 13th and if you have travel a distance just to get there I can assure you it is a journey very well spent, as I found out.

These great burgers make me feel like Homer Simpson when he's dreaming about donuts. I really have no idea why, but their sauce is so good, every time I think about it I turn into Homer again!

Check it out if you are a burger lover, as you will not be disappointed.

Dom Perignon Rose

The new elite Dom Perignon Rose Oenotheque 1990 is THE super champagne from a super champagne house.  It has a stunning colour and also a divine taste.

This is one of the hardest to find champagnes. A set of vintage Rose Oenotheque from 1966-1990 sold at Sotheby's for a whopping $128,410.00. The price was for some other vintage bottle as well but if you take this into account, the fact is that the new DP Rose is a collector must-have.

A delicious champagne that's going to be your little secret for a very, very special day. 

ABC Mania

NYC is going organic!  

Jean-Georges Vongerichten has teamed up with ABC Home to launch a new and exciting 'Farm To Table' restaurant using healthy, local, organic produce as much as possible.  

It opened a couple of months ago and just keeps on getting better. Don't be put off if you've got a hungry man in tow, they can sink their teeth in to the Roasted Pork T Bone while you eat what they call rabbit food, aka Roast Carrot and Avocado Salad with Crunchy Seeds and Citrus.  

ABC Kitchen is situated at 35 East 18th Street, near Broadway www.abckitchennyc.com  

Conflict Kitchen

When I first heard of Conflict Kitchen in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania I must admit to being slightly baffled but extremely intrigued! It is a take-out restaurant that serves up food from countries that the US is in conflict with.

Food is served out of a shop front and has been made to look like a drive through. It will change cuisines every four months to pause on another country and will be helped by events, performance and discussions about not only the culture but politics and other such issues.

Kubideh Kitchen, the first, is an Iranian take-out and it seems to be going down rather well with the locals who can't wait to get their debating hats on.

Log on to http://www.kubidehkitchen.com/ to find out more.

Soda Stream

Oh my god, talk about a Lava Lamp type blast from the past.  

If you grew up in the 80's you're bound to remember this totally disgusting machine that we all loved. I know it's on a par with hyping up something like Pot Noodles but I WANT ONE! Soda Stream we salute you.  

Check out http://www.sodastream.co.uk for more info, this one pictured, the Genesis comes in a few colours and at £59.99, includes a 60 litre aluminum gas cylinder and two carbonating bottles.

Frozen Hot Chocolate

I feel as sick as a dog and I have brain freeze but my god it's worth it! 

Most people have been to or at least heard of Serendipity 3, the cafe that serves the most devilish 'Frrrozen Hot Chocolate' in NYC. They even had to make a movie about it. So you can imagine my surprise and glee when I saw an A5 sized packet of the stuff, at none other than London's Selfridges.  Digging further, http://www.amazon.com/ sell a whole load including the chocolate bar.  

It couldn't have been easier to make, mix in to the blender, cover with a cup of milk and loads of ice, then whizz.  It's so delicious and utterly naughty. I'm going to be dreaming chocolate rivers for weeks.

Pop Ice Cream Bar

The summer is here and so the demand for great ice cream always grows. 'Pop' should be the word on your tongue when you want to taste great ice creams.

Pop bar is a wonderful concept shop, with lollies and ice cream there for you to see so that you can chose exactly what you want.

Why are Pop Ice Cream and Pop Sorbet so delicious? Well, the reason for this is that they use amazing ingredients - the combos of flavours are guaranteed to send your taste buds into ecstasy.

Pop bar is a secret now totally out of the bag, so indulge in that naughty pleasure and lick some great ice cream!

Oh, almost forgot to say - this is only in NYC, baby yah!

You either love it or you hate it....

I'm mad about Marmite and so one would think I'd be excited about the arrival of it's mature range.

Cheese makers do it, so Marmite thought they could too and why not, the jar is certainly cool enough! The chief-blender has crafted a secret recipe and matured it four times longer to create one hell of a Marmite.  

I'm slightly reluctant but will try for brecka tomorrow. Eat with care is all I can say!

8 oz Burger Bar

This LA and Miami burger joint's are amazing. 8oz burger bar does the most succulent and tasty burgers that you would just be dreaming about for ages after leaving 8oz.

These guys are obsessed with burgers. They ground the meat in-house and then age the meat in a Himalayan salt-tiled meat locker. Oh, and they also house cure their own bacon. They cook their meat over a grill that has live oak, key to the secret of this wonderful burger. The beef for this super burger is Black Angus sirloin short rib and chuck cuts, so some of the best cuts.

If you are in Miami go to Alton Road and for the LA location check out Melrose Ave... and enjoy!

Zuma

The fabulous UK-Japanese restaurant Zuma is coming to Miami.

This contemporary Japanese jewel from the UK has been expanding over the last few years. Their restaurants all have stunningly designed interiors by designer Noriyoshi Muramatsu, who has created just the most amazing spaces for them.

To say the food is fabulous is an understatement. It's simply amazing. Forget about Nobu, Miami Zuma is coming and I can't wait - I plan on being there as much as I can.

Their Miso marinated black cod is mouth watering and their sushi is divine. You'll only find better sushi at the Tsukiji Fish market in Japan, a big trip for a plate of sushi!

These breathtaking Japanese restaurants are keeping sushi on the top of the cool food lists outside of Japan.

Zuma is going to be a restaurant that we're bound to see popping up in a few selected States across America - well, we hope so! Their Miami restaurant is going to be situated in the great location of Biscayne Boulevard Way, and I cannot wait to go.

Here are a few images from some of their other restaurants, so you can see the sort of thing you're going to get.

Pizza Pie

How cool is this? An ice cream van, but for pizzas.

Eddie's, the famous pizza place have done an overhaul on an old DHL van installing four ovens so they can be made to order and taste as good as the ones that come out of their 75 year old restaurant.

A 16 inch pizza costs $12.50 and they even have a smaller one that's slim as anything and only contains 270 calories (the same as half a deli sandwich)!

The van will be plodding the streets around midtown and Wall Street come June the 10th so keep your eyes peeled!

http://www.eddiespizzany.com/

KitKat Royal Tea

Nestle Japan are coming up with some great ideas.

The Royal Tea is both amazing and delicious, with two great fabulous tastes. The crunch of a KitKat with the wonderful aroma of black tea is simply hedonistic.

You can get it over here, but pretty much only in Japanese supermarkets. It is a taste like no other, a wonderful delight to the tastes buds! 

Soho House LA

This is the new Soho House LA, from the guys that brought you the other Soho houses.

We get the feeling this is what the Soho House group have been wanting to do for a while now, bag a place in Hollywood. This is number 8 in the Soho group's arsenal, it seems they've got a certain feel to each of their members' clubs - a mix of old English cool with a hint of 1950's lounge bar.

This is going to be the must have membership in LA this year. It's also going to be the place all your friends will want to go to, just to say they've been.

Unlike the London and NYC Soho house complexes, this Hollywood version is situated on the top two floors of a tower block on Sunset Boulevard, just near the Jaguar dealer, seemingly a very good place for them to be. There is amazing view of LA from the club bar, the 30ft long bar with a view of the city that you won't be able to take your eyes off.

As with all of the Soho House locations you'll decide on where you think is the best place to hold court or to hang out, and in my opinion, that place is the Roof Garden. The Roof Garden is a terrace garden lined with Californian olive trees. This is the restaurant part of the club, seating 140 people, all of whom are guaranteed to feel part of the country side without putting a foot outside of Hollywood. 

Soho House West Hollywood is going to be the ideal choice for everyone that needs their home away from home, or just the best meeting place. How on earth do these guy always do this?

Mast Brother's Chocolate

The Mast Brothers ARE the master chocolate makers.

These two brothers from Brooklyn are true chocolate connoisseurs! The Mast Brother's Chocolate is a business like no other. The brothers source the best cacao from around the world. The packaging is so cool, it's low fi but with the best hand-made feel - it's a special chocolate, made with you in mind. These brothers are this year travelling down to pick up cacao in a boat, HOW cool is that?

Chocolate is sexy, chocolate is comfort, chocolate is a friend, chocolate is luxury, chocolate is cool, Mast Brothers IS the chocolate of chocolates.

Mast Brother's chocolate is the only bean-to-bar producer in NYC. The mast have converted a 100 year old factory in Willamsburg, you'll think to yourself, there's not one, but two Willy Wonka's in this amazing hand made chocolate factory.

Chocolate Craze

Artisan du Chocolat is, for me, on a par with Melt - the best chocs known to man.  

I popped in to their little store in Pimlico this morning and they were sampling this Orchid & Orange Blossom for the run up to London's Chelsea Flower Show. It's light but rich and heavy and exotic all at the same time. It somehow magically transports you to a secret garden and you can almost smell the flowers - you can certainy taste them! Delicious!

ADC have shops all over the country but my favourite is the consession in Selfridges.http://www.artisanduchocolat.com

Coffee Hit

Tapped & Packed in Fitzrovia london is my new favourite coffee shop hang out.  

It's been open for a few weeks now and everything's working like clockwork. They have the ultimate  espresso menu and loads of brewed single origins from Brazil, Columbia, Riwanda and Columbia! They do a pretty mean bacon sarnie too.

Their address is 26 Rathbone Place W1 and it's well worth a visit if you're passing.

The Perfect Lunch Box

OMY, this has made my day!

Colette in Paris has launched 'La Lunch Box'! Healthy burger, (if there is such a thing) fresh veg, pudding and a Vitawater.

I am off to Paris next week and I'll let you know what it's like but I already know it's gonna rock!

A History of a Great Whiskey

Johnnie Walker is a great whiskey with a great history, and their history is something most people are not aware of.

This is a business that has set records not only for the type of whiskey they produce, but also for their prices.  They have built a brand that's instantly recognisable, from just one bottle and one label you know straight away it's Johnnie Walker.

There are quite a few wonderful limited edition whiskeys created by this brand. The first, is a $27,000 bottle - a lot of money, but when you consider they've only produced a grand total of 200 bottles of this 1805 anniversary whiskey, you realise they have perfected the art of supply and demand. 

The next is pitched at a slightly lower price (but not that much lower!), this is the Blue Label 200th anniversary bottle, and if you can get hold of it, it's retailing for around $3,200 a bottle. For your money, you get simply amazing whiskey, in a stunning leather box.

The last one I want to tell you about is the 100 year anniversary Yellow Label whiskey. This was produced last year exclusively for Selfridges in London - if you can get hold of a bottle, keep it, and treasure it, like you would collecting a great bottle of limited edition Coke Cola.  Now, remember to drink sensibly! 

Eat Seasonably

This is ridiculously cool!  

Everyone knows that you can eat anything at any time throughout the year but it's certainly not eco friendly to be eating those strawberries in December!

http://eatseasonably.co.uk has a brilliant, easy to use wheel that shows what's in when making eating by the seasons simple as pie. They also have a bit devoted to what you should grow when so I'm going to take their advice and plant some onions and dwarf french beans this weekend.

Cookie Colouring

This 'Decorate Your Own Flowers' tin is just the ticket for any kids party or play group!  

The Byrd Cookie Company stock an array of cool presents but in London, Harrods sells the tin. For £8.75 you get 8 mini iced flower-shaped cookies and 2 markers so that you can draw on the cookies before eating.  

Simple idea but great fun! www.byrdcookiecompany.com

Vodka

When you're next in Germany, head to The Deli Garage where you'll find a huge selection of cool ideas.

These hip flasks are filled with 40% vodka in a range of wicked flavours, melon and mint, ginger and coriander and would you believe, espresso!  

Check out The Deli Garage to see everything they do including the ever so slick 'Food Finish' to spray/decorate anything edible in silver or gold and 'Chocolate Glue' that's high in cocoa and is ideal on hot buttered toast.

Mad for Macaroons

Selfrides are so on the mark.  

They've managed to secure the king of the macaroons, Pierre Herme. I just got home to find a beautiful box brimming with colours from a good friend of mine. I couldn't think of anything nicer! I'm jet lagged and tired but I'm on my third one and am floating on a cloud of sugary heaven.

The flavours are crazy but totally delicious, I have to say his strawberry, wasabi is unlike anything I've ever tasted! Dare I try the olive oil, vanilla? Why on earth not?

The Egg Cup

Check out this beautiful and stylish egg cup.

This is from the guy over at Minimalux and this is their first collection, I think it's amazing. Their products are made out of brass and completed in gold and silver, and that's simply why they are so stunning.

The only eggs that I could picture in this cup would be Daylesford eggs - the perfect pairing; the best egg with the best egg cup.

www.minimalux.com

Dip & Squeeze

Why didn't Heinz do this before?

This is so self explanatory this is the new dip and squeeze.What a great product for the fast food nation or, if you are like me and just love ketchup on everything.

Have fun dipping and squeezing your way to tomato bliss.

Teany the best tea house in nyc

I am so sad to see that my favourite tea house has closed for a few weeks after a fire but I hear that it is opening up again on March 31 so not long now.

Teany is the best place to get high on tea and peanut butter bomb cake. I love this little find in NYC and think that it has the best vibe. I know that it has been open for ages and you have probably heard about it before but I think that sometimes it is good to go to an old favourite.

Now, if you did not know, this tea house is owned by Moby and it is one those places that you would expect him to own as it feels like you could sit there all day watching New York going by. Teany is ever expanding with products from teapots and loose tea, and even sells teany beverages which is the latest arm to his little empire, the most delicious is the white tea and pomegranate.

I know that everyone has jumped on the band wagon of bottled drinks but these really are the best and my fridge is full of them.  When it is back up and running I would say run over there and put teany in to your New York routine.

www.teany.com www.teanybeverages.com 

"I'm Here"

Ok, I am in love with this. Take a look.

M&M's

M&M's have gone up market

Now, this is truly amazing. They've created a luxury version of the best loved M&M's. As I am writing this, I am trying each one of them (for research purposes only, you understand) and GOD, they taste great.

The Triple Chocolate is good but perhaps a little over-kill,  too much chocolate - if you can ever say that!? The one I love the most is the Raspberry Almond flavour. True, it sounds like an odd combo, but it is just wonderful - how do these guys do this?

The flavours are Dark Chocolate, Triple Chocolate, Chocolate Almond, Mint Chocolate and my favourite, the aforementioned Raspberry Almond. The packaging is amazing, the chocolates are amazing, what are you waiting for? Grab some now and have fun!

Crips

Like crisps, but better!

Like many people, I'm addicted to crisps and am therefore happy to have stumbled upon this delicious new brand with adorable packaging.

Crips are baked not fried, (BONUS) and are much lower in fat than your average Walkers! They have five yummy flavours but I like the Thai Sweet Chili best.

Daylesford Organic

Just popped in to this amazing shop in Munich and WOW, what a great shop it is. It is Daylesford Organic. Move over Dean and Dulca, THIS is how chic food is meant to be!  

Just check out the website http://www.daylesfordorganic.com and you will see what I mean. I went to the opening of the Daylesford shop that took over Fresh and Wild on Westbourne Grove, London a couple of years ago and I'm now even more desperate to check out the rest of this company.

Their soups are to die for, their jams are mouth-watering, and their cheese is simply the best I have ever tasted. WOW. They truly do stock only the best of the best products, it's fair to say that Daylesford have put the "organic" back in to organic.