FOOD + DRINK
MACKNADE ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH HOOPERS DEPARTMENT STORES
Macknade , Kent ’ s food and drink experts , have revealed further details of their growth plans as they announce partnership with family-owned department store , Hoopers .
The partnership underlines Macknade ’ s mission of creating spaces for communities to come together over a shared love of food and drink ; on this occasion , collaborating with an iconic , independent department store to reinvigorate their food and beverage model .
Stefano Cuomo , CEO , Macknade said : ‘ Macknade ’ s whole purpose is to bring communities together through quality food and drink experiences . By partnering with Hoopers , we aim to create a favourite place in the town for everyone to enjoy . Tunbridge Wells residents have long taken pride in supporting local , independent businesses and the surrounding area of the Weald is full of producers that we already admire , and whose stories we can ’ t wait to share .’
Occupying the 4000 square foot former café site within Hoopers Tunbridge Wells store , Macknade will create an informal restaurant space offering an all-day dining experience for customers , taking them through from breakfast and brunch to lunch , light suppers and leisurely drinks .
Set to open in September , Macknade at Hoopers will also offer a tight retail range , including a selection of produce used on the new restaurant menu , as well as wine , beer and cider . A curated collection of indoor plants and hand tied bouquets from their floristry department will be available , alongside bespoke hamper services and foodie gifts .
Shane Godwin , managing director , Macknade added : ‘ Working with Hoopers presents a wonderful opportunity to bring the Macknade experience to an ever-growing audience , creating a fruitful partnership with a trusted name in Tunbridge Wells , who share our values , and from whom we can learn a great deal . Once finished , the restaurant will become the ideal place for all manner of get togethers from business breakfasts , to relaxed brunches and suppers with friends and family .’
Hoopers Tunbridge Wells has been an integral part of the community since 1990 . Set at the heart of the historic town , opposite the train station , Hoopers is a designer-led store offering an inspirational edit of luxurious fashion , beauty , homewares , and furniture .
Debra Angus , managing director , Hoopers said : ‘ Living in East Kent I have long been a loyal customer of Macknade and have admired its ethos , passion and commitment in providing a fantastic food based experience . The resonance of two family businesses joining in partnership with our customer at the centre is a very exciting prospect .’
ADVENTURE SHACKS READY FOR AN ELITE SUMMER
Elite Pubs have announced the launch of Adventure Shacks at 9 of their pubs this summer .
Opening on 19th July , the new dining spots will seat up to 8 guests in an array of stylish settings that have been uniquely designed to provide an unforgettable al fresco dining and drinking experience .
Three Adventure Shacks will be available to book at each pub , with three themes to choose from . The Beach Shacks take inspiration from the great British seaside , decked out with bright colours and nautical accessories ; the Secret Garden Shacks will transport guests to a magical woodland , where they ’ ll sit amongst untamed vines and sparkling disco balls ; and the Tiki Shacks boast a tropical paradise , which are packed full of vibrant jungle textures and tiki statues .
If the surroundings weren ’ t enough to transport guests away from the everyday , sipping on their favourite summer drinks will be sure to . A selection of cocktails are on offer to be enjoyed , including frozen passionfruit margaritas , strawberry daiquiris and pina coladas , as well as beers , ciders and non-alcoholic alternatives
Guests can also tuck into seasonal menus that shine light on the very best of local produce . Serving up a taste of summer dishes include King prawns with lemon mayonnaise , grilled baby gem and chimichurri ; duck magret , potato gratin , roasted chicory , samphire and local blueberry sauce and mouth-watering puddings such as Kentish apple and strawberry crumble with strawberry and clotted cream ice cream ; and local strawberry Eton mess , with French meringue , crème du cassis and cream .
Find the shacks across Kent and East Sussex at The Farm House , The Great House , The Gun , The Lazy Fox , The Pheasant Plucker , The Pig & Sty , The Poacher & Partridge , The Potting Shed , and The Vineyard .
The new Al Fresco dining spots are available for bookings (£ 45 Sunday-Thursday and £ 65 Friday-Saturday ) from 19th July until 3rd October . To book an Adventure Shack visit www . elitepubs . com / adventure-shacks .
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