Valentine’s Day Gift Guide

Piece by Kate Antoni, Food Goblin Central Correspondent

Valentine’s day is, for me, the most fabulous day of the year. Before you wrinkle your noses and start judging. I’ll tell you why. I was a weird and strangely faced kid. An only child with very few friends. One, who definitely did not receive any Valentine’s Day Cards. Every year I sat expectantly at the letterbox hoping for a card that never came.

It took some time to realise that, actually, this is the most excellent excuse to celebrate myself and my friends (and maybe, this year, even manfriend!) This gift guide is intended to provide gifting inspiration. Take a sneak peek at some of my favourite items and be prepared to wish yourself a very Happy Valentine’s Day, because you deserve it!

Hummingbird Bakery

Hummingbird is undoubtably my favourite bakery in London. Offering American favourites from from cupcakes to pie and whoopie pies to mile high salted caramel cake. One of my happier morning routines consists of a cuppa joe and an iced cinnamon bun – this sets my day off with aplomb. I usually pick up a box of cupcakes or a mini pie. Around the holidays the beautifully festive creations have London swooning. This heart shaped cake with thick vanilla buttercream and pink sponge tasted heavenly. The minis are perfect for kids or to give out as favours to friends and loved ones.  https://hummingbirdbakery.com/collections/valentines/products/valentines-mini-cupcakes-selection-box. https://hummingbirdbakery.com/collections/valentines/products/valentines-vanilla-heart-cake

Lyres

Probably the best non alcoholic spirit alternative that I’ve ever tried. This range hails from Australia and it’s absolutely fantastic in every way. I don’t know how and I don’t know why but the taste manages to mimic it’s distant alcoholic relatives. Unlike other alterntiaves on the market, this doesn’t taste strongly bitter or botanical. It’s smooth and joyous. I’m terrible at mixing cocktails but this was supremely easy. 

I filled a glass with ice and slipped in some bruised fresh bay leaves. Poured over squeeze of lemon juice, 2 parts lyres vermouth and topped with soda water. It tastes absolutely brilliant and I can’t wait to try this again.  https://lyres.com.au/uk. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lyres-Non-Alcoholic-Spirits-700ml-Vermouth/dp/B07S99G58N/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=lyres&qid=1580555367&sr=8-5

Chocolate and Love

I can’t really say that dark chocolate was ever my favourite thing in the world or that I would have chosen it over milk. Chocolate and Love converted me! The wonderful chocolate people kindly sent me: The Valentine’s Panama gift box which contains 4 x 40g bars (the rich dark, the Panama, the sea salt and the pomegranate). The Valentine’s creamy dark gift box (which is double the size) containing, 40 x 80g rich dark, sea salt, orange and creamy dark and last but not least the rich dark mini which, contains everything its big sister has – but is just smaller.

The cocoa beans are sourced from cooperatives in Panama, Peru, The Dominican Republic and Madagascar. Ensuring that product quality and standards for workers are kept to a maximum.  With the most stunning, ethereal packaging based on hand painted designs. A lower sugar content and a higher cocoa bean content, this is truly the best dark chocolate out there. I’m a massive fan of the company and the products. The sea salt and mint with peppermint crunch are my ultimate favourites but the orange is always welcome. https://chocolateandlove.com/collections/shop/products/valentines-creamy-dark-gift-box. https://chocolateandlove.com/collections/shop/products/valentines-panama-gift-box. https://chocolateandlove.com/collections/shop/products/mini-rich-dark-gift-box

The Somerset Toiletry Company

I love all things bath related but surprisingly only recently came across the Somerset Toiletry Company. Founded in 1999 by husband and wife team Roger and Sakina, the ethos was clear. To create beautifully scented and, where possible, sls and paraben free skincare. Currently developing skincare for Oliver Bonas and the National trust, this company has far exceeded my expectations. The products are unbelievably luxurious without the hefty price tag. Featured is the Naturally European rose petal handwash (vegan), shower gel (vegan), room diffuser, soap bar (vegan), pomelo perfume roller ball and the pomegranate lip balm. The sizes are generous, and the packaging elevates any bathroom into a spa like sensation. I’m already a big fan. https://thesomersettoiletryco.co.uk/product/naturally-european-lip-balm-pomegranate/. https://thesomersettoiletryco.co.uk/product/naturally-european-exotic-pomelo-perfume-rollerball/. https://thesomersettoiletryco.co.uk/product/naturally-european-rose-petal-hand-wash/. https://thesomersettoiletryco.co.uk/product/naturally-european-rose-petal-shower-gel/. https://thesomersettoiletryco.co.uk/product/naturally-european-rose-petal-room-diffuser/. https://thesomersettoiletryco.co.uk/product/naturally-european-rose-petal-soap-bar/.

Something Bubbly

JP Chenet is made to be shared. What better wine to serve guests at a Gal-entines party than JP Chenet Ice Edition Brut or Rosé. These two, elegant tipples break with tradition and offer a new way to drink sparkling wine! Best enjoyed over ice and a few strawberries, in a big wine glass or gin goblet. Alternatively add a spirit – Manchester Drinks Company has launched a new shimmering Raspberry and Rose gin liqueur that would pair beautifully. The mini bottles are the perfect for a girly get together or Valentine’s Day Breakfast in bed. Simply serve with a straw, chilled and straight from the fridge for a fun, celebratory experience.

Another juicy Rose, best served cold, is the Vin de France Cruset Rose. The slight fizz was a welcome edition and it pairs wonderfully with tapas or grilled fish. Calvet’s Carcassonne Rosé hails from the Languedoc region. Bright, juicy and light. It’s fantastic value and can be enjoyed alone (or with friends and baked fish).  All three bottles offer unparalleled value and are really pretty, just the ticket for Galentines! https://groceries.morrisons.com/webshop/product/J-P-Chenet-Ice-Edition-Rose/401923011?from=search&param=jp%20chenet. https://www.sainsburys.co.uk/shop/gb/groceries/all-wine-/vin-de-france-cruset-rosé-75cl-7951182-p. https://www.coop.co.uk/products/calvet-cascassonne-rose-830887

Dobel Diamante

A favourite tequila of mine blended using reposado, anejo and extra anejo 100% agave tequilas. The blend is then subject to a proprietary filtering process that removes the colour while at the same time making the Tequila exceptionally smooth and creamy in texture. It’s perfect on the rocks but for Valentine’s day I’ll enjoy mixing this very easy cocktail.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Maestro Dobel Diamante™
• 8 raspberries
• 1 teaspoon of honey
• Juice of 1/2 lime
• 2 fresh mint leaves
• Sparkling water

Preparation:
Muddle raspberries, honey, and lime juice – strain to remove all liquid – muddle mint leaves to release mint fragrance – pour mixture over ice and top with Diamante™ and sparkling water.

 I added a splash of rose syrup as I had it on hand. Divine! 

Real Kombucha

These very flavourful kombucha are not flavoured with fruit juices or added extras. Instead loose-leaf teas are fermented in the Chilterns, to produce the most delicate and simultaneously vibrant collection.

Choose between the Royal Flush with hints of white peach and rhubarb. It’s a non-alcoholic alternative to prosecco or champagne and made from first flush Darjeeling tea. It soft, refined on the palette and really really delicious. Great with foie gras or pudding. The smoke house is brewed from Yunnan tea. Bold and robust, this packs a punch in the best way possible. Pair it with a juicy steak and chunky chips. Finally, the Dry Dragon, made from a dragonwell green tea with hints of citrus and fresh apples. This is the perfect accompaniment to white fish, green salads and soft cheeses. https://realkombucha.co.uk/real-kombucha-shop/

Chococo

Based in Dorset this family business has grown rather a lot since 2002. They make some of the most delicious chocolate truffles I have ever tasted and have four “chocolate houses” – think chocolate based cafes and all the delights these entail. Including 70-100% cocoa hot chocolate which can be adapted using plant-based milks for a vegan friendly alternative. There are ice cream sundae stations and breakfast pastries with assorted scones (including cheese and marmite …I’m a lover, don’t be a hater!) I’ll say it once and I’ll say it again, they have replaced my love of Fortnum’s chocolate truffles. This year I was lucky enough to be sent the milk chocolate love lobster. This is a large 125g hollow milk chocolate lobster handmade with 45% Venezuelan origin milk chocolate wrapped in pink foil and tied with ribbon. The tag reads “you’re my lobster,” because lobsters’ mate for life…the biggest surprise came when I opened my valentines present and the lobster itself is covered in edible shimmer and cocoa swirls. Beautiful and delicious.

The package also contained their vegan friendly “to the moon and back” dark chocolate heart slab and a handwritten note. It makes for a gorgeous thoughtful gift. http:// https://www.chococo.co.uk/valentine-chocolate-gifts 

Godminster Cheddar

When I met Sarah from Godminster she told me about her favourite cow and then proceeded to tell me that most staff members have one. Then I wanted to be her best friend and eat cheese and drink cider and retire from normal adult life. Godminster practices the sort of circular farming environment that appeals to me. By embracing traditional farming practices, the land and delicate ecosystem can continue to regenerate itself. Located in Bruton, Somerset the herd largely consist of Friesian cows but also Normande and Short Horn. There are approximately 320 lady cows living an organic grass fed lifestyle. This means the grass the cows graze on is never exposed to pesticides or chemical fertilizers.

This valentine’s day give the gift of cheese with this selection box. Included is the deliciously creamy 200g heart shaped truckle award winning vintage organic cheddar in distinctive burgundy wax. A 200g round of award-winning oak smoked vintage organic cheddar, wrapped in muslin cloth. Finally, a 200g round truckle of Black Truffle Vintage Organic Cheddar which, doesn’t seem to last very long in my house! Available directly from the Godminster website, from all good supermarkets and speciality food stores and across 26 countries!  https://www.godminster.com/products/triple-cheddar-collection-heart/

S’nack by S’well

Reducing  plastic consumption in general and single use plastic as a priority, is hard! Especially when convenience takes precedent. Living in London is fantastic and  whilst I love the fast paced routine, it’s only easy to sustain if you’re organised. Luckily S’nack by S’well has arrived to make everyone’s life much easier. Double-layer, food-grade stainless steel keeps food cold or hot longer, dishwasher safe, BPA/BPS free and toteable! Pack lunches or snacks the night before a busy day and you’re all set. https://uk.swell.com/products/swell/blue-cornflower-food-bowl/

Pierre Marcolini

Pierre Macolini and luxurious lingerie desiger Carine Gilson have partnered together to create a luxurious line of stunning valentines chocolate. “Mon coeur est de dentelle” or “My lace heart” is comprised of hazelnut praline paired with hazelnut gianduja and topped with cocoa nib ‘lace’. It’s even more delicious than it is beautiful and that’s a feat! This is great to eat alone with glass of bubbly or gift to a special someone. The packaging is gorgeous too. https://eu.marcolini.com/en/product/praline-heart-mon-coeur-est-de-dentelle/

Lush

Receiving a big box of all things lush is one of the best presents that money can buy. I love the company, the ethos and their products. It makes me truly happy to take a day, an afternoon or even slice out an evening and lay back in the bath or have a long hot sudsy shower. What better way to share this touchy-feely holiday than to get touchy feel with a loved one (or yourself!) To commemorate Valentine’s day Lush has a few limited-edition products.

Prince charming shower gel, filled with pomegranate juice, a known antioxidant that stimulates cell regeneration. Peachy soap to help keep skin bright and fresh. The aubergine soap…my favourite! Characterised by its naughty appearance this palm free soap is coconut based and creates a creamy lather to luxuriate in. If having a bath is more your speed you could try the peachy bath bomb packed with davana oil which may encourage some friskiness! The aubergine bath bomb, full of sweet decadent tonka or finally the unicorn horn. A multi coloured bubble bar which creates the most fantastic bubbles and encourages sleep with its lavender scent. To top this all off, get your lips kissable with the unicorn lip scrub, filled with omega-9 and virgin plum oils. Or if you’re feelin very generous and you want to take self care and self love to the next level….try a lush treatment.  https://uk.lush.com/valentines-day/shower-gel/prince-charming. https://uk.lush.com/products/bath-bombs/peachy. https://uk.lush.com/products/valentines-day-gifts/unicorn-horn. https://uk.lush.com/products/bath-bombs/aubergine. https://uk.lush.com/products/lip-scrub/unicorn

Lush Spa Treatment – The Comforter

I was treated to the most luxurious decadent treatment by the gorgeous team at the Lush Spa in Oxford Circus. I’m not really a “spa” person, finding it relatively difficult to switch off. Yet, this experience was nothing short of perfection. Post treatment, I felt invigorated and relaxed, eager to take on the world!  London can be a little hectic and my life comprises of juggling. I compartmentalise and juggle every day and often I feel a bit stressed, overwhelmed and tired. 

I honestly couldn’t wait to explore the Oxford Circus Store and then head to the basement to try out my treatment. Each time I return it’s better than the last – even if nothing has changed. The basement section of the store is devoted to naked products, meaning they come without packaging. There are plants and flowers, beautiful smells and calming smiles. I feel so at home here, so peaceful and so thankful all of a sudden. A blackboard with my name and the time of my massage is nestled amongst the flowers. I’m greeted by a professional therapist who leads me into the sound proofed Lush Spa Kitchen and we discuss my treatment.

I fill out the appropriate paperwork and I’m introduced to the products. The Comforter is an hour-long exfoliation massage and it’s completely divine. I’m scrubbed with a hot cocoa body scrub and then massaged with a rose serum. Whilst I don’t want to give away too much, you’ll find that the room is dimmed with low-level pink lighting, star projections and ethereal music.

The bed is heated, and I felt as though I had been encased in a cocoon. When the treatment ended, I took a few minutes to centre myself and get dressed. Then headed into the spa kitchen to drink my rosewater candyfloss non alcoholic cocktail, before setting off into the world. Rejuvenated, refreshed and revived. I will definitely return. This really and truly is the ultimate luxury and anyone would be thrilled to receive this. Or treat yourself! https://uk.lush.com/products/spa-treatments/comforter-spa-treatment

Valentine’s Day Feasting opportunities

Valentine’s Day divides us into two distinct groups. There are the “stay-at home-gifters” who nest inside with homemade food and lots of bubbly and the “lets-go-out” crew who make a point of dining out on the big day. I tend straddle (sorry for the pun) both sides.

This year I’ve had the opportunity to try some fab restaurant menus prior to next week’s extravaganza. Fancy Crab has a gorgeous offering for £45pp, available from the 14th -16th February. This includes a glass of sparkling Black Queen Shiraz. Farzi Cafe London in Haymarket, has the most fabulous £65pp menu, which includes a welcome cocktail and more food than you thought was logistically conceivable! I tried the dishes yesterday and I can assure you…I was blown away! Bingham Riverhouse is offering a 7 course menu, priced at £95pp. Having eaten here recently I can confirm that the food and setting is divine and the service, is perfection. Plate restaurant situated in London’s Shoreditch is offering a well priced dining menu. Think, very fine scratch made food with a laid back welcoming atmosphere. If a stay away is more your pace, try dinner at The Six and then stay over! Located within the Hampton Arms Hotel you’ll benefit from views of the Hampton Court maze and sumptuous food. If you’re looking glam up, try IT Restaurants for a modern take on Italian food against a vibrant, glitzy backdrop.

The products in this piece were gifted to Food Goblin.