News

Japan limbers up for the ‘Wagyu Olympics’
Japan’s largest Wagyu beef fair, held every five years and dubbed the ‘Wagyu Olympics,’ is due to take place from 6 -10 October.

Wine bars planned for new Saudi Arabian megacity
Neom, Saudi Arabia’s metropolis for the future, will have wine bars according to planning documents, despite the country’s strict laws on alcohol consumption.

Restaurant sues customers who took back US$3,000 tip
A diner at Alfredo’s Pizza Cafe in Scranton, Pennsylvania made the headlines after he left a $3,000 tip on his $13.25 bill – but the act of kindness was soured months later when he asked for the money back.

The Drinks Trust seeks £350k funding for energy crisis initiative
The Drinks Trust is set to launch a dedicated grant-giving campaign this winter, aiming to tackle the energy crisis, and is calling on the industry to raise £350,000 for hospitality workers struggling to pay their bills.

Argentine chef partners with Laphroaig whisky
Single malt Scotch brand Laphroaig has named Argentine chef Francis Mallmann as its new global taste trailblazer.

Bar to open in the vaults beneath The Royal Exchange this October
Next month will see the launch of The Libertine, a 450 capacity venue situated beneath the City of London’s Royal Exchange which boasts of, among other features, a whiskey vault.

WLC recommends: Corrigan’s, London
Douglas Blyde visits Richard Corrigan’s restaurant in Mayfair and speaks with award-winning sommelier Dmytro Goncharuk about creating a wine list that balances well-known producers with those a little off the beaten track. Taken from this year’s Wine List Confidential guide, now available to buy.

Should restaurants close on the day of the Queen’s funeral?
A Twitter thread from Hawksmoor explained that most of its restaurants would be open as usual on the Monday, sparking debate about the etiquette for businesses during this national mourning period.

NoMad London launches new subterranean cocktail bar
NoMad London has unveiled the official launch of Common Decency, the latest bar from Leo Robitschek and Liana Oster, which opens on 28 September.

London set to host sake celebration
Restaurants across the capital will be celebrating the diversity and versatility of sake this October, and proving that this Japanese drink also pairs with non-Japanese dishes.