More Than Half of Brits Admit to Last-Minute Christmas Meal Bookings Forget the dry turkey and overcooked sprouts; British diners are giving their festive menus an international makeover. According to December 2024 booking insights from TheFork, Europe’s leading restaurant reservation platform, Italian and Indian cuisines surpassed British favourites for Christmas Day dining— and early trends indicate the same appetite for global fare will dominate Christmas 2025. This year, restaurant-goers are once again leaning towards comforting bowls of tagliatelle and plates of fragrant paneer, choosing bold, international flavours over the usual roast trimmings. A Festive Feast With Worldwide Influence Data from…
Author: Sam Allcock
Sam Allcock
Sam Allcock is a seasoned journalist and editor with a deep passion for the culinary arts. With over two decades of experience in the world of food writing, Sam has become a distinguished voice in the industry, renowned for his insightful reviews, engaging storytelling, and unwavering commitment to highlighting the finest in gastronomy. As the Editor-in-Chief of Feast Magazine, he leads a dynamic team dedicated to exploring the diverse and ever-evolving culinary landscape. Sam's journey into food journalism began with a childhood fascination for cooking, inspired by his grandmother's kitchen where he first learned the magic of blending flavors and crafting delicious meals. This early love for food led him to pursue a degree in Journalism from the University of Leeds, where he honed his skills in writing and developed a keen eye for detail. Throughout his career, Sam has traveled extensively, tasting and documenting cuisines from around the world. His articles are known for their rich, vivid descriptions and his ability to convey the cultural contexts of the dishes he explores. Whether it's a hidden gem in a bustling city or a traditional dish in a remote village, Sam's work brings the reader right to the heart of the culinary experience. Under Sam's leadership, Feast Magazine has flourished, earning accolades for its in-depth features, exclusive interviews with top chefs, and comprehensive guides to the best dining spots. His editorial vision emphasizes sustainability, innovation, and authenticity in the culinary world, ensuring that the magazine not only entertains but also educates and inspires its readers. Beyond his professional achievements, Sam is an advocate for food education and sustainable practices. He frequently participates in panels, workshops, and community events, sharing his expertise and fostering a greater appreciation for the art of cooking and the importance of ethical food consumption. In his free time, Sam enjoys experimenting with new recipes, exploring local farmers' markets, and hosting dinner parties for friends and family. His personal blog, where he shares his culinary adventures and recipes, has a loyal following, further cementing his status as a trusted authority in the world of food. Sam Allcock's dedication to his craft and his genuine love for all things culinary make him a pivotal figure in food journalism, continuously inspiring and delighting food enthusiasts around the globe.
Trinity Kitchen has unveiled a fresh lineup of street-food favourites in time for the Christmas period, offering an array of indulgent dishes from loaded Chicken Nuggets and Tater Tots to rich Mac & Cheese, gourmet burgers and slow-cooked Birria tacos. Visitors can look forward to a festive feast filled with comfort and creativity. Returning festive favourite Nelly’s Barn is joined by the popular Big Mouth Gyoza and Niko’s Comfort Kitchen, while newcomers include Return of the Mac and the much-loved Birria Bandits, bringing a diverse mix of flavours for guests to enjoy throughout the season. Serving West Country-inspired street food,…
McGhee’s is unveiling new gingerbread men across Asda, Scotmid, SPAR and One-O-One, created using a traditional recipe inspired by childhood favourites. The family bakery is responding to the strong resurgence of nostalgic, classic bakes as customers look for comfort and familiarity this Christmas. Close to 50,000 gingerbread men are expected to be supplied over the festive season due to significant retailer demand. The new launch accompanies the return of McGhee’s much-loved Christmas Empire Biscuits, which proved hugely popular last year. A GLASGOW bakery is drawing on its heritage this festive season, releasing a Christmas treat steeped in nostalgia. McGhee’s has…
Radnor Hills has been awarded Sustainable Supplier of the Year at the Federation of Wholesale Distributors’ (FWD) annual Gold Medal Awards. The soft drinks producer was praised for “leading the way in sustainability far beyond its size and scale,” with judges describing the result as “a landslide win.” A delegation from Radnor Hills accepted the accolade at last night’s ceremony, held at Old Billingsgate in London and hosted by comedian and presenter Josh Widdicombe. The FWD Gold Medal Awards highlight excellence throughout the UK wholesale sector, recognising both suppliers and wholesalers who deliver exceptional performance across a range of categories.…
Night-time economy operators across the UK are bracing for a severe financial setback in April 2026, as government business rates reforms will abolish the current 40% Hospitality, Leisure and Night-Time Relief (RHL) and introduce a new structure that, in many cases, will significantly increase costs rather than reduce them. While official government statements suggest the reforms will create “permanently lower rates,” the figures emerging from affected businesses indicate otherwise. Hundreds of late-night venues—including pubs, bars, clubs, grassroots music venues and late-opening restaurants—are expected to see substantial rises in their yearly rates bills. For many, this is viewed as a covert…
The vibrant rodizio restaurant is now open on the ground floor of Touchwood Shopping Centre Beleza Rodizio has officially unveiled its new restaurant in Solihull, opening its doors in a prime ground-floor unit within Touchwood Shopping Centre. The launch represents a £1.25 million investment from the fast-growing hospitality brand as it continues its expansion across the UK. Bringing the energy and flavours of Brazil to Solihull, the restaurant introduces its celebrated rodizio-style service, offering guests a continuous selection of flame-grilled meats carved at the table by expert passadores. The menu features premium Wagyu cuts alongside tender beef, lamb, marinated chicken,…
Fix & Fogg launches in Britain through an exclusive partnership with Whole Foods Market. New Zealand’s celebrated nut butter maker Fix & Fogg has officially arrived in the UK, introducing its bold flavours, clean ingredients and adventurous spirit to British shoppers. Debuting exclusively at Whole Foods Market from 24th November 2025, the brand is poised to liven up UK breakfasts with its vibrant, flavour-driven range and its purpose-led ethos. Created in Wellington by Kiwi Roman Jewell and British co-founder Andrea Jewell, Fix & Fogg began with a desire to build something meaningful – a company rooted in community, quality and…
This Christmas, Brighton’s renowned restaurant Terre à Terre invites guests to indulge in a festive feast packed with inventive flavours and celebratory flair. With both The Festive Set and the Sharing Party Menu available, the restaurant is embracing the season with its trademark creativity and welcoming atmosphere. Priced at £45 per person and available from Thursday 27 November, The Festive Set offers a three-course culinary celebration showcasing a vibrant mix of seasonal favourites. Diners can begin their meal by choosing from three imaginative starters. Options include the Jaipur Jonny Brinjal – a coconut maize chaat-spiced fritter paired with Bengal butter-baked…
Belvoir Farm, known for crafting great-tasting drinks made with real fruit juices and no artificial ingredients, has announced a new partnership with Alcohol Change UK, the organisation behind the annual Dry January® challenge. As the Official Mocktail of the 2026 edition, the collaboration reinforces that cutting back on alcohol can still be enjoyable, flavourful and indulgent. Launching on 1st January for the campaign’s 14th year, the Dry January® challenge invites people across the UK to begin 2026 with renewed clarity and energy by committing to 31 days alcohol-free. The initiative helps participants reset their drinking habits for the start of…
From rich chocolate tortes to zesty lemon drizzle, from classic cheesecakes to towering sponge creations, cake holds a special place in hearts – and on plates – around the world. National Cake Day is the perfect moment to indulge, experiment, and share this beloved treat with the people who matter most. Whether you’re a seasoned baker, an enthusiastic cake-shop explorer, or just someone who loves a generous slice with a cup of tea, this delicious day offers something for everyone. A Brief (and Surprising) History of Cake “Qu’ils mangent de la brioche!” — “Let them eat cake!” — may be…