Author: Nick Knight

SELFRIDGES 2021 FOOD TREND PREDICTIONS

The events of 2020 and the impact of Covid-19 have transformed the food industry, from how food is processed to how it is accessed, consumed and shared. Selfridges Food Product Developer Jessica Abela looks at how the pandemic has and will continue to influence the way we eat and how this will impact food trends for the coming year.

1. Provenance & hyperlocal

“Sustainability, biodiversity and community-driven considerations were driving many consumers’ food and drink choices before the pandemic. This has accelerated and customers are increasingly searching for ways to re-connect with the food system.

“Hydroponic growth systems such as Infarm allow us select herbs and salads to grow within our Foodhall, offering customers hyperlocal, super fresh and naturally flavourful produce. It ticks lots of sustainability boxes, reducing our carbon footprint and using 95% less water.”

2. Imperfect Eating

“Whilst consumers are becoming more savvy about nutrition, the terms ‘guilty pleasures’ and ‘junk food’ are taking on a new form. Consumers are seeking ways to bring back the feel-good factor and shake off the taboo, re-affirming food’s role in routine acts of self-care. New brands are taking the language, flavours and visual cues of “junk foods” and refining them for an adult audience.”

3. Beauty Foods

“Bridging the gap between nutrition and skincare, holistic food and drink brands are now launching science backed beauty foods, drinks and skincare made using their hero ingredients. Some brands are expanding their beauty supplements to include foods and on the flip-side, food brands are foraying into the beauty market through olive oil.”

Shop at Selfridges

4. Food-as-Medicine

“Half of UK consumers believe plants and botanicals have medicinal benefits1. The food-as-medicine movement is being rebranded to fit modern lifestyles, balancing flavour and function to shape our physical and psychological states. The desire for health and wellbeing post-pandemic is a consistent trend across all markets. Nostalgic narratives overlaid with science are giving way to a new category.”

5. Flexitarians

“14% of Brits now identify as flexitarians2– twice as many as pescatarians, vegetarians and vegans combined. And three quarters of people globally plan to eat and drink more healthy as a result of the pandemic3. Following a largely plant-based diet and choosing alternative protein sources to meat can not only improve health but reduce your carbon footprint.”

6. Mood Foods

“As we better understand the synergy between food and mental health, our diets are changing to reflect both how we feel and how we want to feel. People are looking to foods to address wellness issues such as sleep, anxiety and concentration. Consumers are increasingly linking what they eat and drink to their emotional states.”

PLAYHOUSE BY SMARTECH LAUNCHES IN SELFRIDGES

A first of its kind playground meets gaming shop, curated by Smartech, launches in the iconic Corner Shop in line with Selfridges reopening

This December, Selfridges is set to launch its first ever gaming destination, Playhouse by Smartech. Smartech will take up residency in the Corner Shop of the Oxford Street store from Wednesday 2nd December for a total of four weeks.

The Playhouse concept will see the space transformed into a playground, showcasing the future of gaming, bringing the virtual world into a ‘phygital’ experiment. Innovative applications of established technologies will create mixed reality experiences that merge digital and physical touchpoints.

Both experienced and first-time gamers are welcome at the playground-meets-gaming shop to discover and try everything from the latest must-haves including PlayStation 5, Xbox and Spectacles by Snapchat, to quirky Nintendo games, retro arcade games and exclusives from the most exciting start-ups within the industry on mobile and PC that might otherwise be missed. Full of Instagrammable moments, such as multisensory VR and play booths, the shop is set to surprise and delight from the moment visitors’ step inside. 

As part of the launch, Playhouse has developed an immersive AR game experience exclusively for Selfridges, combining virtual and augmented reality technology. Players step into a mixed reality world using the AR game available on both @theofficialselfridges and @smartechworld Instagram channels. By scanning a QR code at the front of the Oxford Street store, or at home, users will be able to interact and play with alpacas from the game in the real world. The AR alpaca feature ‘throws’ gifts at players who can try to catch as many as possible on their smartphone to be in with a chance to win the ultimate game bundle from Smartech: a Ps5, Oculus Quest 2 and Snapchat Spectacles V3.

Beyond the interactive games and latest consoles, the Playhouse mission is clear: to unite and inspire the world through play. With every activation, the aim is to create a captivating experience that brings people together, which doesn’t go by the old rule books. “At Playhouse, we bring life and excitement to the future of gaming. We’ve designed a new kind of gaming shop, centred all around play. Imagine stepping into a cartoon or a house of play, you enter into another world for a while. It’s all about nostalgia, creativity, imagination and happiness – everything gaming represents. We let these conversations transpire into meaningful, unforgettable and playful experiences” says Smartech Co-Founder & CEO, Nathalie Bernce.

Selfridges Technology Buying Director, Martyn Stroud, comments: “We’re excited to be welcoming customers back into store with the addition of our first gaming destination; a place where people can try out the latest in must-have consoles as well as innovations from top start-up brands and the exclusive AR alpaca game. This Christmas Selfridges is reimagining festive traditions and the Playhouse concept brings that to life, offering extraordinary experiences alongside one-of-a-kind gift ideas housed in our iconic Corner Shop space.”

Stepping back to consider the wider gaming sector, it’s a market with vast potential. By 2021, the global video games market is estimated to surpass a total value of $138bn (£105bn, €121bn), while some 64% of the population describe themselves as gamers. (Sources: Statista, Nielsen)

Over the four-week period, Playhouse will see each day playing host to something new; from live stream sessions and tournaments, to healthy gaming talks and coding workshops. All events are free of charge but with limited spaces, so registration is advised.

The Playhouse by Smartech will run in The Corner Shop until 3rd January 20, after which it will move to a permanent location within Selfridges Oxford Street. The range will also be available at selfridges.com and smartech.buzz.

Top picks, available at Playhouse by Smartech:

Facebook Oculus Quest 2
The Most Advanced all-in-one VR Headset

Oculus Quest 2, the next generation of all-in-one VR. Quest 2 pushes the state of VR forward with a redesigned all-in-one form factor, new Touch controllers and our highest-resolution display ever. Featuring a blazing-fast processor and next-gen graphics, the Oculus Quest 2 allows you to play, explore and create with access to the full library of Quest games and content. If you’re working from home, Quest 2 can also assist you with productivity through its Work from Home collection of featured apps. It delivers fresh experiences for enthusiasts and new opportunities for developers, all while introducing immersive gaming to newcomers across the globe. Explore awe-inspiring games and experiences with unparalleled freedom. Untether your expectations.

Snapchat Spectacles V3
Capture your World with 3D Camera Glasses

Meet Spectacles: a camera inspired by the human eye and powered by your imagination. They’re a step closer to a camera that can interact with the world around you. Inspired by the Two HD cameras capture 3D photos and videos at 60 fps while four built-in microphones record immersive, high-fidelity audio. The Spectacles allows you to capture your world in 3D and then relive it with your 3D Viewer. Inspired by the human eye, the Images from both cameras combine to build a geometric map of the world around you. With this new sense of depth perception, you can experience – and reimagine – your memories like never before. With a new form of capture, comes a new depth of creativity.  Photos and videos wirelessly sync to your phone, where you can edit and transform them with a new suite of 3D effects on Snapchat. Discover a new way to look. Your world, the way you see it.

Sony Playstation 5
The Next-Generation Gaming Console

Introducing the all new Playstation 5 by Sony. The PS5 console unleashes new gaming possibilities that you never anticipated. Marvel at incredible graphics and experience new PS5 features and breathtaking immersion. Discover a deeper gaming experience with support for haptic feedback, adaptive triggers and 3D Audio technology. Play has no limits. It’s the most highly anticipated console launch in years. The PlayStation 5 is currently only available through pre-orders that can be made online and in-store. You can register your interest at smartech.buzz now with a limited release coming very soon.

Fnatic
Global Esports Performance & Entertainment

Fnatic is a global esports performance brand, laser-focused on seeking out, levelling up and amplifying gamers and creators. Today, driven by their ability to advance esports performance, Fnatic is the channel through which the most forward-thinking brands communicate with young people. Playhouse will house a wide range of their merch, gear and apparel. Ranging from fast, light and most compact mechanical keyboard to their elite esports performance enhancing mousepad. ‘Fnatic Gear’ consumer products continue to level up and amplify the gaming performance of users all across the globe. By pioneering the intersection of street culture and esports with merch collaborations, Fnatic continues to lead the industry, now at Playhouse.

HONEY-BASED CONCEPT RESTAURANT LAUNCHES AT SELFRIDGES

Hive at Selfridges, a new honey-based culinary concept restaurant complete with onsite bee hives and keepers opens its doors this December.

The menu incorporates a range of fresh dishes, all creatively incorporating the highest-quality natural honey, whilst diners will be able to experience an immersive honey-inspired environment, with the modernist interior paying homage to the key ingredient of honey through botanical statement walls, decadent golden bee structures, and plant boxes with florals pollinated by the restaurant’s own bee population – which can be viewed dwelling just outside the window.

The restaurant welcomes diners to enjoy an all-day menu, which encompasses a range of innovative dishes that are healthy and comforting, and made with quality organic ingredients. Additionally, Hive will also offer a range of honey and cheese pairings to be enjoyed throughout the day, including Comte and Chestnut Honey, and Fourme d’Ambert with Buckwheat honey. For a truly unique honey-based dining experience, Hive will also be offering a cheese and honey afternoon tea experience, with diners able to choose from a range of delicious teas, pastries and cheeses to compliment the exquisite range of natural honeys.

Khalid Samata, founder and owner of HIVE tells, ‘A few years ago, I fell in love with Honey. I discovered buckwheat honey and that tasting experience marked the beginning of my evolving journey. I enjoyed the taste of buckwheat honey so much that I became obsessed with how monofloral honeys are made.

For a year, I spent almost every weekend back home in the French Pyrenees, where I am originally from, to discover this buzzing ecosystem, to meet the local experts, to learn about bees, about flowers, about honeys, about the use of honey and its benefits to our health and wellbeing.

I wanted to bring my findings to the UK market. I partnered with Michelin Star Chefs to create the finest honey desserts that are now, served in the best restaurants in London. Because honey is a healthy ingredient, I wanted to expand its use to all dishes and after much experimenting and imagination, HIVE Restaurant was born! After a difficult year, we are so excited to open our doors and celebrate living life again with such a beautiful concept, amazing food and good company.’

Alex Gilmour, Selfridges Head of Restaurant Operations comments: “We’re excited to be working with new brand Hive on the launch on their first restaurant. Hive’s innovative honey inspired menu is sure to be very popular with our customers who we look forward to welcoming back to the store.”

Honey has earned a reputation as one of the purest and most natural ingredients for over 5,000 years, and is known to offer unique remedial qualities, including reducing anxiety, calming insomnia, and combating fatigue. The exceptional range of honeys utilised in Hive’s menu will be both harvested on-site from the restaurant’s own rooftop hives and procured by the artisanal farm Le Miel des Français, who’s selection offers a range of rich natural flavours, chosen to perfectly compliment Hive’s menu.

The rooftop bees are looked after by experienced beekeeper and conservationist Mark Patterson, who will be using his expertise and knowledge to hold monthly talks in the restaurant about the critical importance of bees in the ecosystem.

Hive can be found on the third floor of Selfridges and will be open from 4th December.

Notes to Editors:

Safety measures:

The health, safety and wellbeing of customers and teams remains Selfridges’ priority. Carefully considered safety measures have been put place to help minimise the risk of coronavirus, in line with guidance from PHE and relevant authorities. Throughout Selfridges’ bars and restaurants in London these include:

Seating areas in all restaurants and bars have been reconfigured to maintain social distancing at 2m. Where this is not possible, for example in bar areas, screens have been installed.

In bar areas, countertop screens are in place, along with moveable screens for positioning in between customers

Staff provide table service, facilitating minimal contact with customers

Menus are one-use and made from fully recyclable materials

Hand sanitiser stations have been installed throughout stores

Customers will be encouraged to make contactless payments if possible

Clear signage is in place throughout all restaurants and bars

All team members handling or preparing food and drink will be required to wear face masks or visors

In line with Government guidelines, Selfridges will securely retain customers details for 21 days to assist the NHS Test and Trace scheme

Gabriela Hearst Launches ‘Retro-Fit’ at Selfridges

Gabriela Hearst launches an exclusive capsule collection ‘Retro Fit’ with an installation in the iconic 2nd floor Atrium of Selfridges London, as part of their ongoing sustainability initiative; Project Earth.

Gabriela Hearst’s retrofit capsule collection for Selfridges has been created with the brand principles of timelessness, uncompromising quality and sustainability in mind. Existing garments made with impeccable construction and uncompromising noble materials, have been modified with artisanal details to create new and beautifully adapted pieces.

The brands signature blanket stitching has been added by hand to cashmere wraps and skirts. Linen silk dresses are dip dyed by hand in navy, knitted turtleneck gowns are tailored into tunics, and a reversible puffer jacket is updated to include the Hearst crest.

Included in the capsule is a limited edition ‘retro fit’ handbag named ‘Ana’ created from existing bags. Only 7 will be available in navy, bordeaux and combinations of black/ ivory, navy/ ivory, navy/ bordeaux, and bordeaux/ cognac/ and navy. The nappa leather bucket bag features an adjustable cross body strap, drawstring bag, and leather handle.

Gabriela Hearst worked with De la Espada furniture to create a sustainable installation space in the 2nd floor atrium which will showcase the capsule collection and handbag. De La Espada furniture can also be found in the Madison Avenue flagship store and at the brand’s Mayfair boutique in London.

The De La Espada furniture featured was previously used for exhibitions and photoshoots, eliminating the need to craft new pieces for the display. All of the products are crafted from premium sustainable hardwood bonded with traditional joinery and wood glue, and hand finished with natural oil and wax. Upholstered products are luxurious fabrics carefully chosen for their tactility and enduring performance. Built to last a lifetime, each product reflects rigorous engineering, the vision of a leading designer, the hand of a master crafts person and the enduring beauty of robust natural materials. The selection includes designs by British industrial designer Matthew Hilton, Shanghai-based architecture and design studio Neri&Hu, and Istanbul-based studio Autoban.

About Gabriela Hearst

Gabriela honored her family’s heritage through the launch of her eponymous label in Fall 2015 after taking over the operations of her father’s ranch in Uruguay. She wanted to create a brand that reflects a slower pace and process: where things are made with care and detail, where tradition is more important than trend, where there is a purpose to every piece. Gabriela’s commitment is to make a strong and modern collection without compromising her ethics and key values, taking into consideration where materials come from and who is making them: luxury with a conscience, or in other words, “honest luxury”. In 2018, Gabriela was appointed to the board of trustees of Save the Children. The Gabriela Hearst Flagship store on Madison Avenue in New York opened in November 2018, the London store on Brook street opened August 2019. Gabriela Hearst is the 2020 winner of the CFDA Womenswear Designer of the Year.

Notes to Editors:

De La Espada furniture is where the creativity of some of the world’s leading designers meets the highest level of European craftsmanship. Our solar-powered factory in Portugal is at the heart of our business. Specialising in solid wood, our expert craftspeople combine advanced technology with handcraft to create truly unique, meaningful objects in premium sustainable timber. Each product is meticulously detailed and engineered to last a lifetime. De La Espada work closely with carefully selected international design partners. The De La Espada product range reflects the diversity of the collaborators as well as a unifying approach to materiality, craft, functionality, and longevity. From the designer to the craftsperson, there is pride in work well done, in rising to challenges and getting every detail right. De La Espada products are imbued with warmth and meaning brought by the hands that bear them.

Barbour Launches Wax for Life at Selfridges

Barbour launches first wax for life station in Selfridges as part of Project Earth initiative

From 28 September, leading heritage and lifestyle brand, Barbour will launch a permanent space in Selfridges in Oxford Street called Wax for Life. Supporting the department store’s Project Earth initiative which launched in August, the Wax for Life station will feature a dedicated re-waxing area, customisation, upcycled Barbour Re-Loved jackets and the latest collection of Barbour Gold Standard premium wax jackets alongside the brand’s classic waxes and clothing. Located on the first floor in the menswear department, opposite the Brasserie of Light, the Wax for Life station will showcase the sustainable benefits of owning a Barbour wax jacket and give customers the opportunity to immerse themselves in a world of wax. It follows on from the successful partnership with Selfridges on the E-Defender where Barbour designed and supplied the interior fabrics as part of the launch of the Project Earth initiative.

Paul Wilkinson, Global Marketing and Commercial Director, Barbour said “Our Wax for Life station in Selfridges is the first of its kind. It demonstrates our commitment to sustainability and the environment and we are delighted to be launching it in Selfridges as part of their Project Earth initiative which is all about encouraging people to shop more responsibly. With the growing understanding and interest in sustainability, we’ve recently seen a real boom in rewaxing by customers keen to extend the life of their wax jackets.”

Jack Cassidy, Head of Menswear at Selfridges says: “It’s so exciting to see a brand with a heritage as rich as Barbour take part in an initiative as transformational as Project Earth. Durability has always been at the heart of Barbour products, and the Wax for Life station is the perfect project for us to launch alongside Project Earth to enable Selfridges’ customers to breathe new life into their most loved Barbour jackets.”
The Barbour Wax for Life station will include:

Shop at Selfridges

Re-Waxing – there will be a dedicated re-waxing area for customers to drop off their wax jackets to be re-waxed. With regular wear a Barbour wax jacket should be re-waxed annually to extend the life of the jacket and ensure that it continues to offer the best in protection and weather resistance. Through re-waxing, the colour will remain bold and the restoration of the jacket will leave the fabric looking less worn, ultimately resulting in a garment which is closer to its original colour and finish.

Customisation – customers can have their Barbour jackets embroidered with their initials on the collar or pocket to make their jacket even more special and one they will want to keep hold of.

Barbour Re-Loved – an upcycle jacket restoration programme. Barbour wax jackets that have been returned to the company by customers who no longer have a need for them, are laundered, repaired and restored in Barbour’s factory in South Shields in the North East of England and then sold on to a new home to continue the life and story of the jacket. There are three types of Re-Loved jackets available exclusively in Selfridges:

Barbour Re-Loved Classic – Barbour wax jackets that have been laundered and lovingly repaired in the factory in South Shields.

Barbour Supa Re-Loved – Barbour wax jackets that have been laundered and lovingly restored with contrasting patches in the factory in South Shields.

Barbour Re-Loved Collectables – A small number of collectable wax jackets which are over 30 years old with either one or two Royal Warrants. In 1974, Barbour received their first Royal Warrant from HRH The Duke of Edinburgh and in 1982, received their second from HM The Queen. Those with two Royal Warrants are particularly collectable as it was only five years from 1982 to 1987 before Barbour was awarded a third Royal Warrant from HRH The Prince of Wales.

Barbour Gold Standard – a new sub brand for Autumn Winter 20, this is a collection of luxury premium outerwear inspired by the Barbour archives which date back to 1910. It represents the pinnacle of Barbour’s offering celebrating expert craftsmanship and a design knowledge that has been gathered over 125 years. The collection combines robust practicality in rugged styles in Barbour’s signature waxed cotton and quilt fabrics. Intelligently designed in ergonomic and engineered cuts, each jacket is full of artisanal craftsmanship with a high attention to detail, there to be discovered.

SELFRIDGES LAUNCHES SUSTAINABLE HOMEWARE COLLECTIONS

Selfridges has unveiled its latest cohort of Bright New Things; a group of emerging talent who produce beautiful and unique products, placing sustainable innovation at the heart of what they do. The independent brands will be supported and championed by the retailer as part of the initiative.

Shop at Selfridges

This year Selfridges has expanded the initiative to include food for the first time along with a selection of homeware brands and fashion designers. Bright New Things AW20 follows the launch of Project Earth, Selfridges’ transformational new sustainability initiative that aims to change the way we shop by 2025.

From ceramics made in zero-waste studios to bags made with deadstock vintage fabrics, the collective of new brands have been selected for their unique creative potential and commitment to making fashion, food, beauty and homeware collections that are better for people and the planet.

Selfridges homeware Bright New Things AW20:

KANA LONDON

Ana Kerin, founder of Kana London is the second ever homeware designer to join Selfridges’ Bright New Things, launching a range of ceramics that are made in her zero-waste studio in East London. Ana has a background in sculpture and fine art and chooses to make up her own glazes, use a unique mix of clays and incorporates other traditional ceramic practices throughout her work. Ana builds each piece by hand instead of on a wheel to better capture the artisan process and individuality of each piece. Prices from, £24.

GOOD WASTE

Good Waste (BNT alumni 2019) focuses on hyper local circular production, salvaging wasted materials such as marble, concrete and stone from across the city to create their unique homeware designs. This year their collection has been made by upcycling a stand previously used for the Selfridges x Depop pop up to create chic table top lighting. They have also produced a line of candles made using waste wax sourced from churches, restaurants and historic guilds in the UK and vases from waste corian. Prices from, £45.

Notes to Editors:

About Bright New Things:

In the spirit of earth-conscious design, rather than showcasing the work of our Bright New Things in a photoshoot, Selfridges work with renowned collage artist Mat Maitland to bring their visions to life.

About Project Earth:

Announced on the 17th of August 2020, Project Earth is Selfridges’ transformational new sustainability initiative, aiming to change the way we shop by 2025.

The initiative builds on the industry leading steps Selfridges has taken over the last 10 years to place sustainability at the heart of the business. Selfridges aims to help customers change the way they shop in three ways: by addressing the materials used in products, launching and exploring new retail models such as repair and resell, and engaging with teams, partners and customers to inspire a shift in mindsets. Working closely with over 300 brand partners and with support from the Woodland Trust and WWF, Project Earth will kickstart with eight weeks of experiments, innovations and conversations, across all stores and online, dedicated to reinventing retail.

Selfridges is the first luxury department store to set tough material requirements as part of their commitment to a science-based Scope 3 carbon reduction target in goods and services.

Through Project Earth, Selfridges commits to:

Materials – Ensure the most environmentally impactful materials used throughout the business come from certified, sustainable sources by 2025

Models – Pioneer new retail models and experiences, making Selfridges synonymous with circularity, including repair, resell, refill and rental

Mindsets – Put longevity, creativity and sustainability at the heart of the business, and engage with teams, partners and customers to effect change

Underpinning Project Earth is a broader commitment to Science Based Targets and to achieve Net-zero carbon by 2050, in line with the Paris Agreement. 

SELFRIDGES LAUNCHES No.3 GIN MARTINI ROOFTOP TERRACE

No.3 London Dry Gin takes over Selfridges’ iconic rooftop restaurant, Alto by San Carlo alongside the launch of the new limited-edition pre-bottled Vesper Martini.

No.3 London Dry Gin will be taking over the terrace of Selfridges iconic rooftop restaurant, Alto by San Carlo.Visitors to the ‘Art of Perfection’ martini terrace will be able to choose from a selection of cocktails as well as No.3’s brand new limited-edition pre-bottled Vesper Martini. The ready-to-pour version of this classic cocktail has been created in collaboration with Alessandro Palazzi of Mayfair’s iconic DUKES Bar and is as smooth and suave as the iconic spy who named it. The Vesper Martini will be available to order at the terrace or to buy in Selfridges Wine Shop on LG.

Throughout the takeover, No.3 will also be hosting ‘Martini Mondays’; a series of master classes and guest spots where some of London’s best bartenders will be serving up their take on the perfect martini.

MARTINI MONDAYS:

‘Martini Mondays’ will see No.3 Gin collaborate with three of London’s best Martini bars; DUKES, The Gibson and Bar Swift, to bring drinkers unique takes on the iconic Martini over three Mondays in October. There will be a DJ from 6pm and special menus.

  • DUKES – 12th October
  • The Gibson – 19th October
  • Bar Swift – 26th October

What’s more, No.3 Gin ambassador Ross Bryant will lead four intimate masterclasses on 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th October, offering guests the chance to discover the history and evolution of the Martini and taste a series of No.3 Gin Martinis and cocktails. Tickets are £40 – available by calling alto by San Carlo, Selfridges rooftop restaurant on 020 7318 3287 – and include four cocktails with olives, 10% off the pre-bottled Vesper Martini, a branded tote bag and No.3 Gin print.

The No.3 Vesper Martini comes in a 500ml glass bottle, serving five cocktails, and is available to purchase exclusively via Selfridges and Selfridges.com at £35.95.

Notes to Editors:

Address:

No3 Art of Perfection Martini Terrace

Alto by San Carlo

Selfridges 400 Oxford Street

W1A 1AB

Access via the express lift in the Fragrance Hall on G

Safety measures:

The health, safety and wellbeing of customers and teams remains Selfridges’ priority. Carefully considered safety measures have been put place to help minimise the risk of coronavirus, in line with guidance from PHE and relevant authorities. Throughout Selfridges’ bars and restaurants these include:

Bookings can only be made for tables of up to six people. Bookings for huts are for four people maximum.

Seating areas in all restaurants and bars have been reconfigured to maintain social distancing at 2m. Where this is not possible, for example in bar areas, screens have been installed

In bar areas, countertop screens are in place, along with moveable screens for positioning in between customers

Staff provide table service, facilitating minimal contact with customers

Menus are one-use and made from fully recyclable materials 

Hand sanitiser stations have been installed throughout stores

Customers will be encouraged to make contactless payments if possible

Clear signage is in place throughout all restaurants and bars

All team members handling or preparing food and drink will be required to wear face masks or visors

In line with Government guidelines, Selfridges will securely retain customers details for 21 days to assist the NHS Test and Trace scheme

About No.3 Gin:

No.3 Gin, created by Berry Bros. & Rudd, has garnered over 30 awards for excellence since 2010. It is the only gin in the world to have been awarded World’s Best Gin four times at the International Spirits Challenge, and the first gin to have ever won the prestigious Supreme Champion Spirit award at the International Spirits Challenge 2019. Other recent award wins include a Gold medal at the International Wine & Spirit Competition 2020 and a Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirit Competition 2020.

In terms of taste profile, No.3 Gin is a refreshing balance of juniper, citrus and spice; a true ‘London Dry Gin’.

SELFRIDGES LAUNCHES SUPPER CLUB WITH ANNA BARNETT

Selfridges launches supper clubs with guest chef and author Anna Barnett. The events see Anna take over The Corner restaurant at Selfridges, London with a menu inspired by fresh seasonal produce, rich and ripe in the flavours of summer.

The supper clubs will take place on Thursdays for three weeks from 8 October with tickets bookable in advance. The four-course menu, curated by Anna in collaboration with The Corner Restaurant’s Head Chef, Grant Clark, features Mediterranean summer flavours and has been created with sustainability in mind.

Dishes include a celebratory ‘All The Tomatoes’ with a tomato consommé side, Spent Hen ‘Kiev’ with rillette stuffing and zested Living Greens salad and a creamy Buttermilk Panna Cotta with fresh Mission Figs, wild honey and thyme.

Anna Barnett says: “When creating this menu, autumn was fast approaching and there was a whole plethora of Mediterranean staples and vibrant flavours I was craving. This menu is comprised of both dishes that scream summer, evoke that feeling of vacation and discovery and dishes that gently bring us towards embracing the darker months through the bounty of produce that arrive as the seasons change. “Working with Selfridges and their keen eye for sustainability has led parts of the menu which I’m excited to share.”

The Corner restaurant, a hidden gem located on the second floor of Selfridges on Oxford Street, offers diners elegant art deco interiors in a light and airy space. In line with government guidance, tables can be booked for up to 6 guests.

Tickets are available now for 8th, 15th and 22nd October, 6.30pm – 9.30pm.

SELFRIDGES SUPPER CLUB X ANNA BARNETT MENU (£45)

Coombeshed Sourdough & St. John’s Focaccia with confit garlic (salted grass-fed butter with onion ash)

All the Tomatoes, with a tomato consommé side

House milled ancient grain Bucatini
cavolo nero pesto, walnut gremolata, Kale ‘nori’ (vg)
or
House milled ancient grain Bucatini
Cornish cull yaw ragu, young pecorino

Spent Hen ‘Kiev’ confit herb rillette stuffing, zested Living Greens salad
or
Roasted Jerusalem artichokes stack with raisin and caper drizzle, Jerusalem artichoke puree and hon shimeji mushrooms(vg)

Buttermilk panna cotta with fresh mission figs, wild honey ,balsamic and thyme reduction (vg)

Notes to Editors:

Dietary requirements must be submitted ahead of the event

Ticket price is for 1 person

A valid booking confirmation must be presented on arrival

Due to the event selling alcohol, this event is for 18 years +, Selfridges operates a challenge 25 policy

Tickets cannot be transferred, exchanged, or refunded once purchased. The ticket is purchased for the specified event date and is not transferable to other events

Address:

The Corner, Selfridges, 2nd Floor, 400 Oxford Street, W1A 1AB

Safety measures:

The health, safety and wellbeing of customers and teams remains Selfridges’ priority. Carefully considered safety measures have been put place to help minimise the risk of coronavirus, in line with guidance from PHE and relevant authorities. Throughout Selfridges’ bars and restaurants these include:

Bookings can only be made for tables of up to six people

Seating areas in all restaurants and bars have been reconfigured to maintain social distancing at 2m. Where this is not possible, for example in bar areas, screens have been installed

In bar areas, countertop screens are in place, along with moveable screens for positioning in between customers

Staff provide table service, facilitating minimal contact with customers

Menus are one-use and made from fully recyclable materials 

Hand sanitiser stations have been installed throughout stores

Customers will be encouraged to make contactless payments if possible

Clear signage is in place throughout all restaurants and bars

All team members handling or preparing food and drink will be required to wear face masks or visors

In line with Government guidelines, Selfridges will securely retain customers details for 21 days to assist the NHS Test and Trace scheme

HOST YOUR OWN PRIVATE BRUNCH AT EL&N CAFÉ

The iconic Instagramable café launches bookable private brunches exclusively at Selfridges London.

Diners can now book a private area of EL&N’s iconic floral café for a special brunch experience, exclusively at EL&N Café in Selfridges, London. Perfect for baby showers, birthdays and special occasions, customers can book a group of up to six guests to enjoy EL&N’s Instagramable coffees and dishes from their delicious new brunch menu, hosted in a private space in the café.

The new brunch menu includes an elegant plate of Mascarpone & Fig on Sourdough or, for those who like something sweet for brunch, there’s EL&N’s ‘Dutch-Baby Pancakes’ served in a cast iron skillet, topped with mascarpone, fresh berries and drizzled with maple syrup. The new brunch menu also features a selection of egg dishes including classics like poached eggs on avocado as well as EL&N’s own Shashuka, Pulled Salt Beef Hash & Eggs and their enticing Breakfast Mezze.

EL&N Café at Selfridges Private Brunch:

Book a private area for 3 hours at EL&N Selfridges, for parties of up to 6 people (£500)

All guests will receive:

  • A main meal selected from EL&Ns brand-new brunch menu
  • 2 x drinks of your choice from EL&Ns range of 85 coffees, teas, soft drinks and mocktails
  • A cake of your choice
  • An EL&N tote bag to take home

Notes to Editors:

Book via Selfridges.com or email pr@elnlondon.co.uk

Address: EL&N Café, Selfridges, 4th Floor, 400 Oxford Street, W1A 1AB

Opening hours: Monday – Saturday 10am – 9pm, Sunday 11.30am – 6pm

Safety measures:

The health, safety and wellbeing of customers and teams remains Selfridges’ priority. Carefully considered safety measures have been put place to help minimise the risk of coronavirus, in line with guidance from PHE and relevant authorities. Throughout Selfridges’ bars and restaurants these include:

Bookings can only be made for tables of up to six people

Seating areas in all restaurants and bars have been reconfigured to maintain social distancing at 2m. Where this is not possible, for example in bar areas, screens have been installed

In bar areas, countertop screens are in place, along with moveable screens for positioning in between customers

Staff provide table service, facilitating minimal contact with customers

Menus are one-use and made from fully recyclable materials 

Hand sanitiser stations have been installed throughout stores

Customers will be encouraged to make contactless payments if possible

Clear signage is in place throughout all restaurants and bars

All team members handling or preparing food and drink will be required to wear face masks or visors

In line with Government guidelines, Selfridges will securely retain customers details for 21 days to assist the NHS Test and Trace scheme

Dos Hombres Mezcal Launches at Selfridges

The highly anticipated Mezcal from Aaron Paul and Bryan Cranston is now available in the UK, exclusively at Selfridges.

Dos Hombres, the Mezcal founded by American co-stars and long-time friends Aaron Paul and Bryan Cranston, is launching for the first time in the UK exclusively at Selfridges.

What makes two successful American actors take a road trip to one of the most remote villages in Mexico? Mezcal. Not being drunk on it (at least not at the time) but having a genuine love for the complex character of this relatively obscure spirit. It was in the remote village of San Luis del Rio where they met 3rd generation Mezcal maker, Gregorio Velasco.

Mezcal is made from the heart of the agave plant in much the same way as it has been for generations. Dos Hombres Mezcal is truly artisanal, made using old-world methods including being cooked in a covered underground pit, with no use of modern technology. This results in a smooth, slightly smoky spirit that is best enjoyed neat, on ice or in a cocktail.

Aaron Paul, Dos Hombres Founder, comments: “We love all things Mezcal. Love the process and the community behind this beautiful spirit. What sets Dos Hombres apart is the smoothness of the Mezcal; we wanted to find one that everyone would love, even people that have never tried it before. Something inviting yet with the slight smoke that people love about the spirit. If you love spirits, you’ll love Dos Hombres.”

Selfridges Buyer, Terry Threlfall, says: “The arrival of Dos Hombres in the UK has been hotly anticipated and we’re delighted to be launching it this summer. For those not in the know, Mezcal is tequila’s smokier, smoother cousin and is set to be the next big thing in spirits. Dos Hombres is truly unique and versatile, and we’re excited for customers to try it.”

Tasting profile:

APPLES: Aroma of apples and perfectly balanced Espadin agave.

MANGO: Hidden freshness and subtle sweetness of fruit.

LOCAL FRUITS: Hints of “zapote” fruit.

WOOD: A soft hint of wooden barrels in which Mezcal is fermented.

SMOOTH SMOKE: A discreet smoky finish.

Shop at Selfridges

Notes to Editors:

THE BIG YELLOW BREEZE COCKTAIL RECIPE (exclusive to Selfridges):

2oz Dos Hombres Mezcal

1oz Honey Syrup (honey and water)

75oz Fresh Lemon Juice

2 Dashes Aromatic Bitters w/ Lemon Peel Garnish

Shake, then strain over rocks in a glass.