FOOD & BOOZE NEWS
THE PHENE SET TO REOPEN
It was a sad moment some years ago when The Phene Arms, a picturesque boozer secreted upon a quiet Chelsea backstreet, shut its doors after falling on hard times. It had one of the prettiest beer gardens in London, and George Best was among its most dedicated regulars. The good news is that the pub has been resurrected, and will be reopening later this month, albeit with a rather different character. Rather than the humble pub of old, we’re promised a sleek, clubby affair with a chic deli and shop, a saloon bar, a smart upstairs lounge and a health-conscious menu. It probably wouldn’t have been to George Best’s taste, but it’ll be good to have The Phene opening its doors again all the same, which they will be the week after next. The Phene Arms, 9 Phene St, SW3 5NY.
SEAFOOD HEAVEN AT GILGAMESH
It’s all aboard Camden’s good ship Gilgamesh for a truly sumptuous-sounding fruits de mer platter – the classic, towering summer sharing dish to which head chef Ian Pengelley has added an exciting Asian slant. For £26 a head (serving a minimum of two people), the exotic dish throws up images of the Southern Seas with scallop sashimi, mussel tempura with caviar and spicy mayo, baked squid in banana leaf and master stock lobster among the elements included. It’s available all summer long. Gilgamesh, Camden View, Camden Stables Market, Chalk Farm Road, NW1 8AH,
www.gilgameshbar.com.
CUPCAKES FIT FOR CARRIE AND CO
Fashionable bakery and cupcake specialist Lola’s, which has concessions at Selfridges and in Mayfair, is getting in on the Sex and the City 2 party with a limited edition “Cosmopolitan cupcake” created specially. It’s a pretty number for ladies who fancy indulging their naughty sides, with lime-zest sponge drizzled with a grand marnier liqueur, topped with a pink pomegranate and vodka icing and a juicy lime wedge. It costs £2.50, or you can get a miniature version for a mere £1.50.
www.lolas-kitchen.co.uk.