Stephanie Mulholland 5th May 2018 Tonight Josephine, 111 Waterloo Rd, Lambeth, London SE1 8UL

Cocktails at Tonight Josephine in Waterloo, London ?

A Tonight Josephine experience review

If you haven’t been to Tonight Josephine yet, you are in for a treat. Based in Waterloo, this pretty-in-pink hot spot is probably one of the most Instagram-worthy bars in London.

Adorned with a neon light feature wall on entrance and an interior embellished with iridescent streamer lined walls, mirrored ceilings, a floral ‘lady garden’ and mug shot decorated bathroom. This overtly girly bar serves quirky cocktails in an oh so cool environment.

Every corner of the bar proves to be a photo opportunity and most will probably spend just as much time sipping cocktails as they will taking the perfect picture – it is simply a millennial girls dream come true.

Tonight Josephine is certainly a lot of fun with its bright, bold and brilliant interior. The bar itself is quite small but this offers a degree of intimacy and exclusivity to boot I guess.

So, what did I think of Tonight Josephine?

Obviously, the décor and atmosphere is fabulous – it is marketed to be just so. Though despite the glamour, its nineties and noughties soundtrack and scented interior (yes, I said scented), you cannot help but feel a little cheated when it comes to drinks – no matter how good they taste.

Unfortunately, my cocktail proved to be more ice than alcohol, free-poured swiftly before being garnished and passed across the bar. It certainly didn’t last long.

Despite this, a few hours at Tonight Josephine makes for a lovely evening and is certainly a fabulous place to stop by for drinks and snaps with the girls – just be sure to take advantage of the 2-4-1 happy hour!

You can get a free cocktail when you sign up to the Tonight Josephine mailing list.

Have you been to Tonight Josephine yet? Which cocktail would be your go to?

Stephanie xox

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Stephanie Mulholland 29th March 2018 One Marylebone, 1 Marylebone Rd, London NW1 4AQ

Revolution Pro launch and 4th birthday ??

Revolution Pro launch

Last Thursday I had a very exciting evening indeed. I attended the Makeup Revolution 4th birthday and launch of Revolution Beauty London (formerly Makeup Revolution) and their newest range.

It was a fabulous affair, with hundreds of bloggers in attendance, beauty adorning every corner and delicious food and drinks. It was a night embellished with cocktails, chatter and fun.

Plus, I got to meet some absolutely wonderful girls and guys in the process.

So, what do I think of Revolution Pro?

Most excitingly, the launch of Revolution Pro was announced with a stunning new collection which includes:

Foundation drops (18 shades)
Foundation mixers (4 types)
Full colour camoflague foundation and concealer (18 shades each)
Primers (10 types)
Supreme highlighter (3 shades)
Eyebrow cushion (8 shades)
Supreme eyeshadow palettes (4 types)
Regeneration palettes (9 types)
Supreme matte lip pigment (30 shades)

I simply cannot wait to make my way through the new collection and have already treated myself to the gorgeous Revolution Pro Regeneration Palette in Trends Celestial.

Expect a mini-haul any day now! You can check out the Revolution Pro video here.

What do you think of Revolution Pro? Which items will you be snapping up?

Stephanie xox

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Stephanie Mulholland 23rd February 2018 13 Coventry St, London, W1D 7AB

A 90s throwback at the Bubba Gump Shrimp restaurant, London ?

Bubba Gump Shrimp Resturant London review Exterior Shot - The LDN Gal

Bubba Gump Shrimp Restaurant review

Let’s be honest, Forrest Gump is a classic. If you are yet to see it, you need to jump on the pop-culture train for an overload of 90s fun.

Bubba Gump Shrimp, London offers an American seafood extravaganza in a spectacularly Forrest-Gump-themed setting within central London. You could literally spend a good 15 minutes just wandering around looking at all the décor and there is even a shop onsite for the more die-hard fans.

The Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Restaurant is the first in the UK that is inspired by the 1994 hit.

Bubba Gump Shrimp Resturant London review Wall - The LDN Gal

Bubba Gump Shrimp Resturant London review Jenny Wall - The LDN Gal

So, what did I think of the Bubba Gump Shrimp restaurant, London?

The themes throughout the restaurant were pretty incredible, it’s worth a visit just for a gander at the walls alone.

When it comes to the food, I was pleasantly surprised. Me not being a fish fan (the irony), went for what was probably the only chicken dish on the menu. I really didn’t expect much from the food, it was nice, fresh and flavoursome – but nothing to write home about.

However, you don’t visit Bubba Gump Shrimp for the chicken, you visit for the fish. Luckily, my boyfriend, embraces a far more exciting palette and ordered the Forrest’s Seafood Feast.

The dish was embellished with Southern fried shrimp, seafood hush pups and fish, atop a bed of fries and garnished with tartar, cocktail and remoulade sauces, as well as a side of coleslaw.

It was a lovely experience although I wouldn’t say I’d be in a rush to return. Like all themed restaurant, its slightly expensive to eat there, the food isn’t spectacular and it quite often appears as a one trick pony.

At over £50 for two mains, two cokes and a 12.5% service charge (I did not feel like it was warrented in all honesty), it is a little on the expensive side when you are looking at the quality of the meals.

Do remember, “it’s all about shrimp” and if you are a fan of the Forrest Gump film, you will probably have quite the enjoyable evening.

Have you been to the Bubba Gump Shrimp Restaurant in London? Which shrimp dish would you devour?

Stephanie xox

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Stephanie Mulholland 8th February 2018

Round-the-clock glamour with Forge and Foster ⌚

Forge and Foster review

I’m always excited to discover new accessory brands. Especially when the words ‘luxury’, ‘fashion’ and ‘affordability’ are thrown into the mix.

Forge and Foster emulate just that. A high-end watch company based just outside of London, they work with creatives across Europe to ensure their products are as pretty as they are practical.

Selling directly online, they ensure competitive prices without compromising on quality. Trust me, luxury and affordability come hand-in-hand.

They offer a gorgeous selection of watches for women and men, as well as bracelets. They have a traditional British aesthetic with large watch faces, a variety of leather or coloured stainless steel straps and gorgeous finishing detail.

So, what do I think of Forge and Foster?

The Rose + Mesh watch is just beautiful, with a minimalistic design. It features a rose gold mesh strap, large watch face and secure clasp which fits your wrist perfectly.

Additionally, the watch offers interchangeable straps are even interchangeable. Essentially, allowing for further customisation depending on your preference.

Furthermore, watches with interchangeable straps allow you to compliment your outfits and show off your style a little more easily.

These watches really can be worn with anything and dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

Be sure to check out the Forge and Foster website, as well as the beautiful ForgexFoster Instagram page.

Have you heard of Forge and Foster? Which watch would you choose from the collection?

Stephanie xox

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This Forge and Foster watch was exchanged for an honest review

Stephanie Mulholland 28th January 2018 59A Portobello Rd, London, W11 3DB

Coloured lattes and healthy eats at Farm Girl, London ??☕

Farm Girl cafe review

I have wanted to go to the Farm Girl for quite some time, drawn in by their colourful lattes, vibrant salads and quirky decor dotting across my Instagram feed – they also have a resident bulldog, just one more reason to go really.

Located on Portobello Road in Notting Hill, it made for a nice brisk walk from the nearby tube station. Visiting on a busy Saturday afternoon, we had to wait some time (in the rain) before managing to secure a seat inside.

Do be warned, if you come at the weekend, you may have to wait for up to an hour to be seated. However, it is worth it!

I was taken aback by the bright decor and wonderfully polite staff amidst the hustle and bustle of the cafe, the music was great and the staff attentive.

So, what did I think of the Farm Girl cafe?

The café offers a large room with plush and cosy furnishings inside, as well as a quaint outside seating area – ideal for those food snaps in natural light when the heavens are not open.

The walls inside feature contrasting green square tiling and plush seating which gives off a fabulous natural and earthy vibe. You could really sit there for hours during the week sipping away.

I chose their rose latte, a beautiful flavoured drink garnished with real rose petals. My partner opted for a vibrant blue butterfly matcha latte, taking us back to Japan as we discussed the possibility of a third trip.

Farm Girl offers a healthy and wholesome menu, with breakfast and lunch covered. Think acai embellished fruit bowls, buckwheat pancakes, salads with all the colours of the rainbow, gargantuan sandwiches, eggs-just-the-way-you-like on toast and a variety of homemade soups to name a few items – oh, and the super colourful lattes.

In regards to dining, I opted for a sweet treat, the raspberry croissant. My partner, a chicken sandwich, brimming with guacamole and spiced yoghurt on sourdough bread. If I was feeling a little more peckish, the Açai Bowl would have has my name on it. Maybe next time eh?

Overall, the Farm Girl cafe experience was lovely – the perfect pit-stop before exploring the delights of Portobello Market nearby. The afternoon date proved a little costlier than your standard chain cafés, a hot drink and cake for two will set you back about £15.

Have you been to the Farm Girl Café? Which coloured latte tempts you?

Stephanie xox

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Stephanie Mulholland 24th October 2017 116 Ebury St, Belgravia, London, SW1W 9QQ

Halloween cupcakes at Peggy Porschen, London ??

Peggy Porschen review

Peggy Porschen has had a rather enchanting Halloween makeover in the lead up to the best holiday of the year – in my opinion anyway, Halloween is fabulous.

Still pretty and perfect in pink, the celebrated cake shop’s décor features some slight adjustments, with pastel pumpkins, cutesy bat bunting and sugar skull cookies aplenty temporarily garnishing its interior.

I paid a visit one morning to their quaint Belgravia bakery to sample some of the exciting new seasonal menu, absolutely delighted by the Halloween and Autumnal overhaul that welcomed me on arrival.

Peggy Porschen’s well-known floral garland door frame was emblazoned with pastel pumpkins, golden skulls and painted broomsticks, nestled amidst the beautiful and vibrant kaleidoscope of coloured flowers woven into the frame.

Each table had its own munchkin pumpkin and the shop had the prettiest (not overly eerie in all honesty) and most welcoming feel as expected – can you even make somewhere so pretty in any way scary?

So, what did I think of the Peggy Porschen Halloween collection?

Sitting inside, I chose a cappuccino which was embellished with cutesy sugar skull shaped topping and a spiced pumpkin cupcake. Although a tad on the expensive side, I must admit this handmade cupcake was delicious, with a fluffy spiced sponge and delicious cinnamon cream cheese frosting – which proved a little too indulgent in the end.

Peggy Porschen are known for their picturesque products and décor, and the Halloween spiced pumpkin cupcake was no exception, with an edible rose gold sugar skull with floral decal.

Teamed with freshly brewed coffee, it is certainly a delicious morning or lunchtime pick-me-up – and is a fabulous date idea if you are looking for something a little different.

It is definitely one of the most Instagramable spots in London. I will certainly be back to revisit their exclusive products this festive season and perhaps even for a little morning time treat again in the meantime…

Have you been to Peggy Porschen yet? What do you think of the Halloween theme?

Stephanie xox

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Stephanie Mulholland 22nd October 2017 TwoRuba, Hilton London Tower Bridge, 5 More London Place, Tooley Street, London, SE1 2BY

A night of cocktails and chats at TwoRuba Tower Bridge, London ?

TwoRuba Tower Bridge Review

Exquisite cocktails in a beautiful bar in London? It is certainly a sought after affair after a busy week of work in the big smoke.

TwoRuba ticks these boxes, a fantastic urban champagne and cocktail bar located on the ground floor of the Hilton London Tower Bridge.

I have to admit, I was very excited when asked to come down and taste their Autumnal cocktail menu and sample some of their small plate dishes. Limited edition drinks and a cocktail masterclass were the highlight of the evening.

So, what did I think of the TwoRuba Autumn cocktails?

After a glass of Prosecco and getting to know the other lovely girls and guys around me, we were offered the Scary Mary. This was a twist on the classic Bloody Mary with a warming kick. The Scary Mary offered a celery juice base and a hint of spice. I honestly thought it would be perfect after a night of cocktails, both refreshing and smooth.

Next up, the Autumn Lady, with a splash of gin and whisked egg white froth, emblazoned with brand logos or Halloween decal. Still with a slight kick – we need it with these chilly Autumn evenings.

A highlight of the evening for many was the cocktail masterclass. After a demonstration, we were allowed to get stuck in and create our own take on the layered Rainbow Cocktail. I was impressed with the result (although, a tad heavy on the syrup) and the whole experience was a lot of fun.

Swing by TwoRuba after work and enjoy its spacious, relaxed and welcoming ambience. The cocktail bar is open each day from 7am to 1am (closing at midnight on a Sunday). Check out the TwoRuba Tower Bridge drink menu.

In addition, they’re are also getting in the festive spirit with their own TwoRuba by the pier pop-up. So, appreciate the London cityscape with views of Tower Bridge and the Thames and sip on mulled vine with an enchanting view.

Have you been to TwoRuba yet? What is your go-to cocktail?

Stephanie xox

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Stephanie Mulholland 7th October 2017 Icebar London, 31-33 Heddon St, Mayfair, London W1B 4BN

Why you need to spend your next date night at the Icebar London ❄️?

An Icebar London experience review

Icebar London satisfies the most difficult to please, a venue offering a plush ‘warm’ bar with delectable cocktails, a restaurant with a charming interior and décor and a sensory experience like no other, a bar crafted from 40 tonnes of Swedish ice from the Torne River.

When it comes to date nights, we are always looking for something unique, an experience that goes beyond the traditional dinner or cinema venture – something that leaves a lasting impression.

Start your evening in the restaurant downstairs, where you will discover a warm and rustic interior. Surrounded by low lit lights with zig-zag filaments, red-brick ceilings and cosy leather seats tucked beneath hardwood tables. The perfect start to date night in London.

Add in Autumnal tones and a relaxed mood, alongside television screens evoking warmth with open log cabin fire videos playing on loop, and you have a beautiful setting and ambience for a romantic evening meal. Serious thought went into the décor, which is complimented by smooth jazz music.

So, what did I think of the Icebar London resturant?

The menu is concise but varied, with European cuisine to suit all tastes and three courses available if desired. The best bit? Vegetarian options are also readily available too.

Starters presented crispy tofu, cooked in breadcrumbs and garnished with pickled cucumber, toasted peanuts and spiced honey. A delicious tangy affair. Although, the tofu was delicious in its own right, its soft interior delicately coated made for something special.

For the main, stuffed peppers brimming with ricotta and a touch of spice (I somehow managed), alongside pistachio pesto and lightly fried quinoa. A variety of sides were also on offer to compliment, and I opted for the corn grilled in husks, a medley of sweetcorn, sour cream and spice once more.

Finally, an indulgent triple chocolate brownie, decorated with toasted marshmallow, salted caramel and ice cream with a crunchy twist. It’s safe to say, we were very full and satisfied.

Top this spectacular dining with a variety of premium cocktails and you are on to a winner. The crumble was a delicious fruit medley, embellished with crumble detailing. My partner, opting for the Rum Blazer and was also drawn in by his fruity concoction, served warm with a rum kick to finish.

The restaurant is truly exquisite in its own right, a warm and luxurious environment that should be recognised in addition to the physical Icebar experience. The food is a varied affair, with lots of quirky touches.

So, what did I think?

Warm and full, we prepared ourselves for the Icebar, sitting in the warm bar upstairs and unwinding beforehand. Once our allocated time came, we were ushered towards the room, faux-fur lined capes placed over heads and our gloves swinging to and fro as we shuffled like Arctic penguins into the bar.

Walking in, I must admit, I was very impressed. The latest instillation presents a Wild in the City theme. Discover an abundance of safari and aquatic animals embracing the walls, sculptures and screens around the room. These are all brought to life as part of an exciting light show – it is a wonderful spectacle.

Although a little smaller than expected, this intimate venue was fabulous. It was fun, different and exciting. Making our way to the actual ice bar, we were presented with champagne cocktails in glasses made of ice.

Essentially, there’s nothing quite like drinking bubbles from an ice glass! The colourful cocktails on offer make for some very pretty pictures indeed.

This sensory experience is simply incredible, thrusting you into a -5°C bar that is brought to life by artistic prowess. There is something quite extraordinary about sitting in a room of solid ice, bopping along to good music and a fabulous light show.

I would thoroughly recommend the entire experience for a date night or special occasion. You can take a peek at Instagram for Icebar London images.

What do you think of the Icebar London? Where is your favourite place for date night?

Stephanie xox

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This experience was exchanged for an honest review

Stephanie Mulholland 28th August 2017

My Neighbor Totoro, Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House

My Neighbor Totoro, Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House, Courtyard | The LDN Gal

My Neighbor Totoro review with Film4 at Somerset house

In case you have not already guessed, I am a massive Studio Ghibli fan and have been since childhood. So, you can imagine my excitement when Film4 announced their Summer Screen 2017 series at Somerset House and My Neighbor Totoro was a featuring film.

The Film4 Summer Screen experience is something I have also been longing to do for a while now. It can be notoriously difficult to get tickets at times but thankfully I nabbed two for the screening of My Neighbor Totoro on Sunday, August 20, 2017.

Of course, like most people who visit Somerset House for the two-week summertime event, I had already seen the film. However, the appeal of the event is that it is an open screening in the famed courtyard. An event where you snuggle down with food and drink and take advantage of the giant screen within.

Saying this, as it was summer, I had been optimistic that the heavens would not open. However, this being England, they did just that.

With a £2 plastic rain mac in tow, we prepared for a night of childhood memories and torrential rain. I must admit, I adore My Neighbor Totoro (it is one of my Studio Ghibli favourites) but even I was a bit miffed at the weather – they do pre-warn though, the show must go on despite the weather.

My Neighbor Totoro, Studio Ghibli, Film, Umbrella Scene, Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House | The LDN Gal

My Neighbor Totoro Film, Umbrella Scene, Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House | The LDN Gal

The Film4 Summer Screen Experience

Even with the rain hopping upon me for pretty much the duration of the film, as soon as Totoro popped onto the screen I was delighted and entranced, especially when he shared my pain in the beloved umbrella scene at the bus stop – laughs ensued and the mood brightened.

I would recommend the Film4 Summer Screen event to anyone. It is a unique experience in one of the most historical courtyards in London. A perfect date-night or birthday treat (August baby you see).

I would warn you to prepare for the elements, think cushions, something to lean on, a rain mac and lots of snacks. Thankfully, a kind steward took pity on me and gave me a blanket.

Overall, I would return despite the weather, spending the latter half of the film standing to watch to avoid the downpour. Somerset House offers a magical experience, be it the Film4 Summer Screen or skating upon the ice rink at Christmas time.

The Film4 Summer Screen 2017 has now concluded. Tickets will go on sale for next years event in Spring 2018.

Have you been to the Film4 Summer Screen at Somerset House? What is your favourtie childhood film?

Stephanie xox

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Stephanie Mulholland 26th August 2017 Wellcome Kitchen, Wellcome Collection

Wellcome Kitchen afternoon tea at the Wellcome Collection, Euston

A Wellcome Kitchen Afternoon TEA REVIEW

I have to admit, I was rather excited for my visit to the Wellcome Kitchen. Not only because it looked exquisite, but also because I was very eager to take a peek around the Wellcome Collection. Known as being the ‘free destination for the incurably curious.’

The Wellcome Collection is a truly spectacular and unique museum. Located near Euston Station, it’s brimming with intriguing exhibits and collections on science, health and life. It blurs the line between technology and art.

As curious as I was, I soon dashed to take our summer-inspired afternoon tea in the Wellcome Kitchen.

Located on the second floor, this boutique venue is divine. It’s bright and elegant and includes a focal display of the celebrated Pill Dress by artist, Susie Freeman.

What is included in the Welcome Kitchen Afternoon Tea?

So, what did we get in our Wellcome Kitchen afternoon tea for two at the Wellcome Collection? Check out the menu below:

A selection of finger sandwiches including cucumber and cream cheese, smoked salmon and coronation chicken
A selection of mini cakes including 2 raspberry and cream tarts, 2 nutty brownies, 2 lemon mouse macarons and 2 red berry cakes
Two fruit scones, Cornish clotted cream and Tiptree strawberry jam
A pot of loose leaf tea (a variety of flavours) or a hot drink each

So, what did I think of the Wellcome Kitchen Afternoon Tea?

In all honesty, I loved this afternoon tea experience. The venue is beautiful and the food divine.

The afternoon tea included a fabulous mix of sandwiches and cakes.

Everything was well presented, with lovely floral china and welcoming staff who graced you with big smiles.

All the food is freshly prepared on site and they even made our sandwiches to order (I cannot have butter, it makes me feel very unwell – odd I know, but, alas) which was a wonderfully helpful touch.

The food is locally-sourced and tends to be seasonal produce, you can even indulge in a glass of sparkling pink Moscato if you feel inclined!

It is the perfect venue to unwind and get lost in great company or even solo. The Wellcome Kitchen is so quiet and calm, away from the vibrancy and bustle of the intrigued visitors of the Wellcome Collection downstairs.

Once you have finished your delicious afternoon tea, you will discover the spectacular Reading Room adjacent, which allows you to unwind with a copy or two and take a peek at an eccentric collection of sculptures, paintings and artefacts.

Overall, a perfect mini-day out wrapped up with lots of technology, culture and food – what’s not to love?

Have you tried the Wellcome Kitchen Afternoon Tea?

Stephanie xox

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