Wednesday, November 20, 2024

FESTIVE AFTERNOON TEA AT ANANTARA THE MARKER DUBLIN HOTEL

 FESTIVE AFTERNOON TEA AT 

ANANTARA THE MARKER DUBLIN HOTEL


 

Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel invites guests to embrace the magic of the holiday season with its exquisite Festive Afternoon Tea, a luxurious experience designed to enchant both the palate and the soul. Located in the heart of Dublin’s vibrant Docklands, this festive offering will be available from the 26th of November to the 31st of December, providing the perfect indulgence to pair with Christmas shopping in the city.




 

Priced from €65 per person, this exceptional afternoon tea combines a celebration of Irish culinary artistry with the joyful spirit of Christmas. Guests are invited to start a new festive tradition with loved ones, enjoying an elegant selection of sweet and savoury delights inspired by Ireland’s rich literary heritage and iconic destinations.

This creative and truly unique culinary journey transports the guest through a literary journey via the lines of some of Ireland’s most famous poems while also paying homage to the most dramatic landscapes in the country. Flavours have been inspired by poets including W.B Yeats and Seamus Heaney and iconic places such as The Ring of Kerry, Achill Island, Valentia Island, The Wild Atlantic Way, Kilkenny Castle and Newgrange.


 

Crafted by Executive Chef Gareth Mullins, the festive menu features whimsical treats such as The Snowball, a Black Forest delight, The Christmas Wreath with indulgent chocolate-filled choux buns, and a contemporary twist on the Yule Log, adorned with candy cane macaroon and white chocolate ganache. Seasonal tea breads include raisin and cinnamon scones, Christmas pudding, and a festive Battenberg cake inspired by the hotel’s geometric façade, reimagined in festive red and green tones.

The savoury selection showcases exceptional Irish ingredients and features refined sandwiches, including Burren Organic Irish Oak Smoked Salmon with dill crème fraîche on soda bread, a robust roast beef with horseradish and Achill Island Sea Salt, a refreshing cucumber and chive cream cheese combination, and a smooth corn-fed chicken with tarragon mayonnaise served on a brioche bun.

 

Guests can also choose from 16 varieties of Ronnefeldt Tea, served in traditional Wedgewood China. The selection includes unique flavours such as Cherry Cheesecake, Irish Chocolate Cream, and Irish Whiskey Cream, offering something to suit every taste. For an added touch of luxury, a selection of Bollinger Champagnes is available to complement the experience.


 

Gareth Mullins, Executive Head Chef at Anantara the Marker said, “Afternoon tea at Christmas is one of the most special ways to spend time with family and friends. We searched the length and breadth of the country for the very best artisans whose products now sing from our plates.  Our homemade Festive Afternoon tea is evocative of times past and will bring you back to your childhood with our contemporary take on Christmas classics.”

 

He continued, “The famous Battenberg Cake is renowned at afternoon teas around the world, and we’ve put a unique twist on this iconic bake. It’s inspired by our own hotel’s geometric façade which we have replicated in the cake. The traditional pink and yellow sponge has been reimagined for Christmas in red and green and is enveloped in vanilla caramel.”

 

Ludo De Jong, General Manager of Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel, added, “The festive season is a time for family and friends to enjoy time together, and our afternoon tea is the perfect setting to celebrate unforgettable moments. We look forward to welcoming both old friends and new to experience the warmth and magic of the holidays at Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel.”

 

For those seeking a thoughtful gift, Christmas gift vouchers and afternoon tea vouchers are available for purchase, offering a memorable treat for someone special.

To reserve your Festive Afternoon Tea or learn more about festive offerings at Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel, visit www.anantara.com/en/ireland or call (01) 6875 100.

For more information or to book your festive escape, visit www.anantara.com/en/ireland or call (01) 6875 100.

 

press release

Casina Bric 460 Mesdi Rosso, from a place that “respects nature in every aspect.”

 Casina Bric 460 Mesdi Rosso Serralunga D’Alba 2023, 14.0% ABV

RRP €21.15. Stockists: Le Caveau, 64 Wine, Greenman Wines, Bradleys Cork



from a place that “respects nature in every aspect.”

From a hilltop farm in the hamlet of Vergne, close to the more famous Barolo commune, comes this superb wine produced from 100% Nebbiolo fruit. Quite a medley of aromatics includes red berries, roses, and herbs. Can be described as earthy! And so it continues on the palate, all those flavours plus a touch of liquorice, maybe chocolate,  right through a lingering finish. 

This Nebbiolo is a power-packed wine that is fresh and fruity with moderate tannins and a balanced acidity. Piemonte makes some super wines, and the Mezdi is an ideal and well-priced introduction to the area.


Importers Le Caveau say it is excellent with roasted butternut squash, wild mushroom risotto or Gorgonzola cheese. “Just the job too for grilled rib eye”, according to Brigid O’Hora’s new no-nonsense book “The Home Sommelier”. “The wine we drink every day at lunch paired with piatto di pasta or with a selection of salami and cheese,” say the producers.

In a nod to Piedmont's history and to portray the wines at their best, Casina Bric uses the Poirinotta bottle, which dates back to the 1700s. This bottle used to be produced near the village of Poirino, just a few kilometres from Turin, but it was later abandoned in favour of other containers from nearby France.

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Check out our Top 2023 Wines here.


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Check out the Good Value Wine List here



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  • This post is part of a series on Italian wines made from native grapes and produced by usually small or medium-sized organic wineries. Taking some “guidance” here from the recently published VINO. They mightn’t always net the hat trick, but I hope to score two from the three each time. I have quite a few lined up, but I’m happy to consider any suggestions or help. #OrganicItaly
  • See our expanding list (with short reviews, prices and stockists) of #OrganicItaly wines here

TRIGON HOTELS INVITE GUESTS TO AVAIL OF BLACK FRIDAY DEALS

 press release 

hotelsxmas24

TRIGON HOTELS INVITE GUESTS TO AVAIL OF BLACK FRIDAY DEALS



Trigon Hotels has launched details of this year’s Black Friday Sale, which includes deals at The Metropole Hotel in Cork City and the Cork International Hotel.


Customers can avail of 20% off room only and B&B at the Metropole Hotel and 15% off room only and B&B at the Cork International Hotel. There is also 10% off gift vouchers at both hotels.


The sale runs until Monday, December 2nd and the rates are available throughout 2024 and 2025, subject to availability.


The historic Metropole Hotel is located in Cork City’s bustling VQ area and the hotel is within walking distance of a wide range of shops, bars, restaurants, cafes and entertainment. 


The Cork International Hotel is beside Cork Airport and caters for families and those who are looking to extend their holiday by an extra night.


Aaron Mansworth, General Manager of Trigon Hotels, said; “The Metropole Hotel is the perfect location for a city break, whether that’s for a couple or a group of friends while the Cork International Hotel offers a fantastic getaway for families who want to explore the attractions on offer around Cork. We hope our Black Friday Sale will give visitors an extra reason to come to The Rebel County.”


The Black Friday Sale is available online at https://www.corkinternationalairporthotel.com/  and  https://www.themetropolehotel.ie


CORK INTERNATIONAL HOTEL LAUNCHES BLACK FRIDAY DEALS


The Cork International Hotel opens its Black Friday Sale this Friday, November 15th. 



Customers can avail of 15% off room only and B&B and 10% off hotel vouchers. The sale runs until Monday, November 25th and the rates are available from Friday, November 15th throughout 2024 and 2025, subject to availability.


The Cork International Hotel is geared towards families with a Family Concierge available to ensure parents and their children are well taken care of throughout their stay. They can also avail of the play room and cinema which is located just a few steps away from the bedrooms.


The hotel is an ASD aware hotel and caters for families with extra needs.


Located next to Cork Airport, the hotel is also a favourite with people who want to extend their holiday by another night, particularly if they have an early departure or late arrival at the airport.


The menu at the New Yorker restaurant is crafted using fresh produce from local suppliers.

General Manager of the Cork International Hotel Eoghan Murphy said: “Black Friday has become a hugely important date on the calendar for the hospitality sector as people seek out the best deals for a short break away during the upcoming year. The Cork International Hotel has lots to offer families and Black Friday is always one of our most popular deals.”

The Black Friday is available on the hotel’s website https://www.corkinternationalairporthotel.com/ 


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COLLEGE GREEN HOTEL DUBLIN, AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION 

LAUNCHES FESTIVE AFTERNOON TEA EXPERIENCE 


Overview

Festive Signature Afternoon Tea Midweek (Mon – Thurs) €59 Weekend (Fri/Sat/Sun) €65 per person

v  Festive Peculiar Afternoon Tea Midweek (Mon – Thurs) €65 Weekend (Fri/Sat/Sun) €75 per person
v  Festive Champagne Afternoon Tea Midweek (Mon – Thurs) €79 Weekend (Fri/Sat/Sun) €85 per person
v  Excluding 25th December. T & C’s apply.
 

From delicious festive afternoon teas to lunches, dinners, soirées, and stayovers, the College Green Hotel Dublin Autograph Collection provides an idyllic venue for those looking to get into the festive swing in style.

The College Green Hotel Dublin invites you to indulge in its remarkable Festive Afternoon Tea starting Monday, November 18th, 2024. Enjoy a relaxing gathering by the cosy crackling fire in the beautiful Atrium Lounge. Indulge in a selection of sweet and savoury delicacies paired with the finest loose-leaf teas, featuring their exquisite new signature blend – The College Green Tea. You may also enhance your experience with a celebratory glass of Perrier-Jouët champagne.

The Festive Afternoon Tea menu is utterly delightful, offering a delectable selection of savoury and sweet bites, including traditional favourites such as Maple Glazed Turkey, Chive and Citrus Salad on a White Irish Loaf and Irish Smoked Salmon, Dill Caperberry Cream Cheese, Baked Guinness Bread (plus other delicious options) and for the sweet-toothed there’s a selection of cakes, in-house baked buttermilk scones with traditional accompaniments, plus an impressive array of sweet treats including Lemon & Hazelnut Tart, Citrus and Honey, Candied Hazelnuts;  70% Dark Chocolate and Orange Crunch, Burnt Orange PeelFestive Spiced Pear Mousse, Sweet Sable Base;  College Green Tea Infused Panna Cotta, Crunchy Oat Granola & White Chocolate; Pecan and Maple Caramel Pie, Pecan Popping Candy. Sample menu HERE.

At weekends, The Festive Afternoon Tea is accompanied by the dulcet tones of the hotel’s resident pianist from 12-4 pm (Sat & Sun). The Festive Afternoon Tea costs MIDWEEK (Mon-Thurs) €59 and €65 per person (Fri/Sat/Sun) and €79 midweek and €85 (Fri/Sat/Sun) to include a glass of Perrier Jouët champagne per person. A Festive Peculiar Afternoon Tea Midweek (Mon – Thurs) €65 Weekend (Fri/Sat/Sun) €75 per person

For reservations or more information, please contact +353 1 645 1000 or email theatrium@thecollegegreenhotel.com


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METROPOLE HOTEL INVITES GUESTS TO 

CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS IN THE HEART OF CORK CITY



 

The Metropole Hotel is getting into the festive spirit as team members prepare for this year’s Christmas Experience. Guests will be able to enjoy a range of treats across Christmas Eve and Christmas Day including a five-course Christmas dinner and a visit from Santa Claus for the younger guests.

 

All guests will receive a welcome pack along with a mince pie and mulled wine when checking in. They will find a Christmas card and gift, decoration and a festive cookie in their room upon arrival.

 

The celebrations kick off with a three-course meal in the restaurant on Christmas Eve, while people will gather to celebrate together in the recently renovated ballroom to enjoy a five course lunch on Christmas Day. Breakfast will be served every morning, and an evening buffet supper will be available on Christmas Day.

 

The package includes a Christmas cocktail, which will be served in the bar, plus a prosecco reception and a bottle of wine to share with Christmas lunch.

 

There will be a schedule of entertainment throughout Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and guests will be able to watch festive movies in the cinema room or relax in the reading library. 

 

Pierce Lowney, Director of Food and Beverage at Trigon Hotels said: “Christmas is an exciting time at the hotel and our team pulls out all the stops to ensure guests, young and old, have an extra special stay. We see many regular faces during the festive season and we always love to welcome new guests to join the celebrations. Whether it's a family or a person on their own, we try to make sure everyone has a memorable Christmas when they walk through the door of the Metropole Hotel.”

 

The hotel will close to the public, except for residential guests, at 3pm on Christmas Eve and reopen at 12pm on December 27th.

 

There are two and three-night Christmas Experience packages available and prices start from €890 per stay. Single occupancy and triple occupancy packages are available and guests can avail of parking for the duration of their stay.

 

Bookings can be made at https://www.themetropolehotel.ie/offer/christmas-2-night-stay/

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RING IT IN

AT THE LIMERICK STRAND HOTEL

Package Overview

RATE: From €215 per person per night to include:

• Luxurious overnight stay in a superior room for two adults sharing

·      A glass of bubbly before dinner
• Four-course New Year’s Eve dinner at the River Bar Restaurant with stunning river & city views
• Sumptuous breakfast

• Access to Energize Health Club for a rejuvenating experience
• Exclusive discount codes for local attractions


The Limerick Strand Hotel is renowned for its terrific atmosphere, especially during the holidays. There’s no better place to wind up and wind down, and on New Year’s Eve, they will set the celebratory scene from check-in to check-out.

Stay over on 31st December and spend the afternoon discovering the hotel's amenities. Take a dip in the indoor heated pool or explore Limerick’s top attractions like King John’s Castle, all within a short stroll from the hotel, enhanced with the hotel’s exclusive discount codes.  Perhaps stroll along the picturesque Three Bridges Walk, soaking in Limerick’s scenic beauty, or explore the city's shops.

On your return, relax in the comfort of your luxurious room or get your glam on at Niall Colgan Hairdressing or Namaste Skin Clinic & Urban Day Spa, with both offering discounts for residents with pre-booking.  That evening, head to the buzzing River Bar and Restaurant for a quick glass of bubbly and a four-course dinner, showcasing the culinary team’s passion for their location by using fresh, high-quality, seasonal food and partnering with provincial farms and dairies wherever possible.  Celebrate the arrival of 2025 with live music that keeps the city's pulse alive all night long. Enjoy a delicious breakfast the morning after the night before as you enter the New Year with great new memories made.

New Year’s Eve at The Limerick Strand costs €215 per adult sharing, including overnight accommodation, a glass of bubbly, a four-course dinner with entertainment and breakfast before departure.

For details more details on the Festive Experiences, please see ChristmasTo make a reservation, call 061 421800 or Christmas@strandlimerick.ie

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Celebrate the magic of the holiday season this December at The College Green Hotel Dublin.

Package Overview

·       Festive Splendour is valid from Sunday, December 1st, to Sunday, 22nd. It includes luxurious overnight accommodation, a welcome seasonal drink in The Atrium Lounge or The Mint Bar, and a delicious breakfast at Morelands Grill before departure. Prices start from € 395 for a Double room per night.

 

To book your December stay, contact reservations@thecollegegreendublin.com

 

¨     December in Dublin is rather magical. From twinkling lights and atmospheric stores to buzzing nightlife, it’s the place to soak up the festive feels. What better place to stay than in the heart of the city at the luxuriously located five-star The College Green Hotel Dublin, Autograph Collection (formerly The Westin, Dublin)?

Famous for its extraordinary Christmas lights and décor, this beautiful hotel is offering a rather special overnight experience from Sunday, December 1st, to Sunday, December 22nd, inclusive, for those looking to shop, entertain, or be entertained. Grab your partner, treat your mum or best pal, or round up the troops and book a magical night away.

December in the city is buzzing with a whirlwind of events, from captivating theatre performances to delightful family pantomimes and spectacular concerts.  The hotel is ideally located, overlooking Trinity College and a short stroll to the atmospheric Grafton Street, where you can enjoy the incredible ambience and shop for all your Christmas gifting needs. Here, too, you can gaze at the incredible Dublin Winter Lights installations, which transform the city with epic light features on iconic landmarks, buildings and bridges, where people of all generations can bask in the glow of specially commissioned dynamic, colourful and imaginative light projections by leading artists.

Upon check-in, you will be welcomed into the hotel's impressive lobby, adorned with beautifully lit trees, ornate decorations, and warm lighting. From there, you will be escorted to your luxurious accommodation to start your relaxing break. Before exploring the city's nightlife, you can enjoy a complimentary drink in The Atrium Lounge or in the charming Mint Bar. After a night out, return to the comfort of your stunning room, featuring characteristic Irish décor. Each room offers modern comforts and special touches, such as luxury bathrobes, slippers, and Italian marble bathrooms with a rainfall shower and a separate tub for two. Guests can also savour a new exclusive bespoke tea offering in the comfort of their rooms, which is a sophisticated blend of Darjeeling, elderflower, and lemon verbena. Spend the morning relaxing in the luxury of your room before enjoying a delicious breakfast in Morelands Grill before departure.

Festive Splendour is valid from 1st December until 22nd December, with luxurious overnight accommodation, a welcome drink in The Atrium Lounge or Mint Bar, and a delicious breakfast at Morelands Grill before departure, double from €395 per night.


ALL ABOARD FOR THE FESTIVE FOODIE EXPERIENCE AT THE GLENLO ABBEY HOTEL & ESTATE


Overnight package from €339 per room to include

¨     One night's luxurious accommodation

¨     A la carte breakfast each morning for two people

¨     Festive Foodie Experience in The Pullman Kitchen

 

5* Glenlo Abbey Hotel Galway has created a rather special experience for those looking to elevate their hosting skills for the holiday season.

From 8th November to 23rd December (Wednesday-Sunday stays only), the award-winning culinary team will take you behind the scenes to demonstrate various techniques and share recipes for you to replicate at home to impress everyone during the season. The Festive Foodie package includes a luxury overnight stay and a delicious breakfast before departure. 

The experience will operate each Wednesday to Sunday from noon for 45 minutes in The Pullman Kitchen, the beating heart of The Pullman Restaurant, comprised of two original carriages from the Orient Express, beautifully restored and set on the grounds of the hotel. Converted into a wonderful restaurant car retaining all its original character, this historic Pullman train carriage resided at Elsenham Station in Hertfordshire, England, before joining the many varied facilities already available at Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate Galway. Once aboard The Pullman Kitchen, guests will see the chefs prepare a selection of beautifully presented canapés with seasonal flair and demonstrate how to create the perfect brine for turkey, highlighting the importance of seasoning tips and their impact on the finished dish! They will also provide a step-by-step guide to making chutney with Christmas spices to complement a carefully selected cheese board and a seasonal cake to finish off the occasion. Full recipe cards will be available for guests to take home, with a delicious jar of Christmas chutney to savour over the holidays and a Glenlo Abbey embroidered apron to remember the day and use with pride in your kitchen.

Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate is one of Ireland's most luxurious hotels, a proud member of Ireland's Blue Book, small luxury hotels, and part of the Irish-owned and managed MHL Hotel Collection. It is just two miles from Galway City and boasts magnificent views overlooking Lough Corrib on a 138-acre estate.

Glenlo Abbey’s Team will be delighted to assist you with any queries by telephone at Tel Intl +353 (0) 91 519600. Or Email: stay@glenloabbey.ie

Alternatively, visit www.glenloabbeyhotel.ie for more information or to purchase gift vouchers online. 


FESTIVE DINING AT THE LIMERICK STRAND HOTEL

THE MUNSTER MILE MENU

River Restaurant and Bar

 

A warm, festive welcome awaits you at the award-winning River Bar &  Restaurant at The Limerick Strand Hotel offering a magical setting for 2024 seasonal dining.

They take their food very seriously at The Limerick Strand Hotel, and Executive Head Chef Paddy Anslow is unconditionally supportive of all things local. He is always on the lookout for new local suppliers and gives a helping hand to small artisan producers. Passion for their location is evident on all menus, and for more than 10 years, they have been at the forefront of the ‘farm to fork’ and traceability food evolution.  NEW for the 2024 season is their “Munster Mile” menu, where dishes noted with an M logo are made with 100% Munster-only goods, celebrating its rich agricultural traditions and diverse range of local produce. By using fresh, high-quality, seasonal food and partnering with provincial farms and dairies wherever possible, they ensure that guests enjoy a taste of the nearby Wild Atlantic Way in the heart of the Golden Vale.

The Limerick Strand Hotel has been the heartbeat of Christmas in the city for more years than they care to remember. It is by far the most popular and atmospheric venue for generational gatherings, fun party nights, and reconnecting with family and friends over the festive season. For those looking to enjoy the run-up to Christmas in style, a delicious Festive Afternoon Tea, seasonal lunch, or dinner at the award-winning River Bar & Restaurant is the perfect choice. There’s no better place to enjoy a cocktail after a hard day’s gift shopping or to treat your nearest and dearest to a delectable feast. Throughout December, on weekends, the River Bar & Restaurant plays host to some local talent, with live entertainment adding an uplifting atmosphere to your dining occasion.

The Limerick Strand Hotel is the perfect spot to enjoy your Festive Afternoon Tea while overlooking the River Shannon and the twinkling lights of the city. Indulge in a three-tiered platter of exquisite finger sandwiches, served alongside freshly baked warm award-winning scones, clotted cream and jam, and a selection of festive pastries and treats expertly created by the in-house pastry team. Available daily in December from 2 pm to 4 pm at €36 per adult and €16.95 per child.

To avoid disappointment, why not book ahead and secure a table to enjoy their famous group festive lunch and dinner options available from Tuesday, November 22nd to Sunday, December 24th? Lunch Menu is available 7 days a week, from 12 pm to 4 pm, at €42 per person for 3 Courses or €37 per person for 2 Courses. The 3-course Festive Dinner Menu is also available 7 days a week, priced at €53 or €48 for a 2-course option per person. The festive menus are available for group bookings only (10+ people) from Monday to Saturday.

The amazing Festive Sunday Lunch is available from Sunday, November 24th. This delicious 4-course Sunday Lunch Buffet features a festive twist to get you in the mood for merriment! Arrive in style as you are greeted by the expert team with a glass of bubbly or mulled wine before enjoying your sumptuous buffet feast. Rumour has it that the big man himself will pay a special visit each Sunday. Reservations are available from 1 pm to 5 pm and include a glass of mulled wine or prosecco on arrival for adults and a selection box for each child. The experience costs €39.50 per adult and €16.95 per child (kids under 5 years old go free).

Booking is strongly advised for all Festive Dining Experiences. Bookings can be made online or via reservation call 061 421800 or email reservations@strandlimerick.ie.

Locals can enjoy the famously festive 4 course Christmas Eve Luncheon in the Shannon Suite with live music from Limerick’s renowned crooner, Liam O’Brien. There’s also a magic show and a meet & greet with the main man himself, Santa Claus! Choice of buffet lunch and family entertainment from €55 per adult €25 per child (kids under 5 years go free) or enjoy a select lunch or dinner menu at The River Bar & Restaurant. On Christmas Day, there is a festive dining package (€175 per adult, child 5-12 yrs €70, with under 5 dining free of charge, excludes Santa gift) complete with live music by crooner Liam O’Brien and singer Jayne Frazer plus a gift for each child. Advanced booking and pre-payment are required.

For details on Christmas 2023 at The Limerick Strand Hotel, please see

ChristmasTo make a reservation, call 061 421800 or Christmas@strandlimerick.ie. Visit www.strandlimerick.ie.