We haven’t had a second to breathe this week with all the goings-on in the world of celebs, launches and everything in between.
Team VIP has been flat-out chatting to some of our favourite celebrities for our upcoming September issue, as well as enjoying the launch of STELLAR’s Hayu InstaStar launch this week.
Thankfully we’ve had some time to enjoy ourselves, so here’s what we’ve been loving!
Deputy Editor Niamh Devereux is loving…Kinara Kitchen
If you’re planning your next evening with pals, you have got to try the new bar bites and cocktail menu at Kinara Kitchen, Dublin. Located right beside the Luas stop in Ranelagh, this Pakistani and Eastern cuisine restaurant has teamed up with renowned mixologist Paul Lambert, and the result is a 10/10 dine and drink experience.
I visited this week with a friend, and we were instantly charmed by both Paul and Maitre D’ Talha Pasha, who both set the fun, relaxed tone for our evening. As we sipped on a Teeling and Aperol palette cleanser, the food began to arrive: perfectly portioned, beautifully presented plates of homemade veggie samosas, spiced lamb seekh kebabs, crunchy prawn tempura, pan seared scallops and juicy chicken wings with mango dipping sauce. I was in flavour heaven.
Meanwhile, Paul was shaking up delicious drinks for us; you can expect the likes of mango and hibiscus bellinis or a basil gin and passionfruit concoction on the menu, but really, this guy can make whatever you fancy (he’s just launched his own ready-to-drink bottled cocktails by the way — check out Mr. L’s Cocktails).
I already can’t wait for my next visit, so I can make my way through the entire menu. The experience runs every Wednesday evening from 5pm; visit kinarakitchen.ie to book in or call on 01 406 0066.
Staff Editor Michelle Dardis is loving…Mr L’s Cocktails
Earlier this week I was invited along to the launch of Mr L’s Cocktails in Bad Bobs Temple Bar and these pre-made cocktails are going to become my bar cart staple!
Created by legendary mixologist Paul Lambert, all you have to do is chill the bottle, shake, pour and enjoy! They come in four flavours; Pina Colada, 1930’s Cosmo, Whiskey Sour, and my personal fave, Pornstar Martini. So delish!! Visit www.mrlcocktails.com for more.
Digital Editor Bronwyn O’Neill is loving…Ella and Jo
As we all know, I am desperately trying to get into skincare. And stick to it. I have a few favourites in my arsenal and this week I was able to try out a new day cream. I was kindly sent Ella and Jo’s Plump and Protect Day Cream with SPF 30.
I already love the Irish brand’s Melt the Day Away Cleansing Balm, because I am one of those awful people who hate taking their makeup off at the end of the day. But I know I have to and the balm is so handy to wash off the day from my face.
The new day cream feels so luscious on my skin and the benefit of SPF is just a major bonus for me because I am averse to the sun! On top of it all, the full product portfolio is cruelty-free and vegan-friendly. The new day cream is €36, you can head to ellaandjo.ie for all the details!
Weekend Editor Sláine McKenna is loving…Audible
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Of course, when things are calm and honestly a bit boring, my love of reading doesn’t rear its head, but now that September is fast approaching and spare time is merely a distant memory…well I’ve finally found a few good books.
Truth be told, this year has been rather miserable reading wise, and I could count the amount of books I’ve read on one hand.
But these past two weeks I’ve read more, than the past few months combined. But life is picking up pace and normally my beloved books would be put down at this point. Luckily audiobooks exist and are making life a lot easier.
They actually allow you to multitask and still listen to a great read. So all those end of summer errands are a little less boring, and your booklist is a little shorter.
Audible is my go-to for a good listen, and they really do make it convenient. You can download your books on to your device and then remove them afterwards, so as not to take up storage. Plus they have plenty of options to choice from.
Right now I’ve just finished Save the Date by Morgan Matson. It’s a cute romance with a bit of depth to it and honestly would have been perfect for the beginning of summer…but it’s keeping the vibes alive as we head into autumn so I’m not complaining.