Top hampers for summer picnics
SUMMER is on its way and with that the promise of picnicking with friends, taking in concerts, tennis, festivals and Polo events outdoors (the vision, of course, never involves British rain.) Preparing for such affairs can be a kerfuffle, not least the task of arranging a good picnic and drinks, but thankfully London’s food purveyors have come up trumps.
This summer there’s a spectacular array of hampers around, offering every food or tipple your heart could desire. City PM rounded up the best.
CARLUCCIO’S
Perfect for alfresco feasting, Italian style. Carluccio’s is offering £45 picnic packages with a selection of goodies including focaccia stuffed with ricotta and pancetta; pork and wild mushroom terrine with toast and poached summer salmon. They also have children’s and vegetarian options. www.carluccios.com
FORTNUM & MASON
The godfather of picnics. Fortnum’s “Wicker Picnic” features beef carpaccio with horseradish and bread rolls, dressed lobster, fresh garden salad, Cropwell Bishop Stilton with Walnut Wafers and, as a finale, fruit tarts with Fortnum’s champagne truffles. All to be washed down with a bottle or English sparkling wine and Touraine Sauvignon. £200, www.fortnumandmason.com
LANGHAM HOTEL
The Langham Hotel, known for its traditional afternoon teas, is bringing High Tea to you this summer with a luxurious picnic hamper, including Scottish salmon sandwiches, home-baked scones with Champagne soaked raisins and delicate pastries. Starts £85.00 www.langhamhotels.co.uk
DAYLESFORD ORGANIC
Pop in to any of Daylesford Organic’s Pimlico or Westbourne Grove branches and the store will happily put together a selection of sausage rolls, fresh baguettes, hunks of Dayelsford organic cheddar and homemade cakes.
www.daylesfordorganic.com
MOUNT STREET DELI
Mount Street is one of the swishest Mayfair locales, so it makes sense that its landmark Deli serves a pretty damn fine hamper too. With 48 hours’ notice, they’ll whip a selection of fresh deli fare and can also throw in dishes from The Ivy and nearby Scott’s restaurant if that takes your fancy. www.themountstreetdeli.co.uk
BRITISH FINE FOODS
This award-winning company has carved out a loyal reputation for its mail order hampers. This summer it’s launching a new “New England” version complete with nautical striped bag, available with any assortment of it’s patés, relishes, cheese and meats. £75, www.britishfinefoods.com
NOBU LONDON
Nobu Park Lane has launched an “ultimate” takeaway bento box for summer, including seared salmon sashimi salad, its famed Black Cod with Miso, sushi and a desert of milk chocolate and mango cake and petit fours. (The deluxe version includes a bottle of Sake.) From £45, www.noburestaurants.com