Brands associated with longevity, therefore (according to Pine), will continue to prevail regardless. Exclusivity adds to this, of course (exclusive UK sales are phenomenal). As are luxury item waiting lists (have you tried to access the Birkin waiting list?). And yet we rarely wait for anything these days. Global and ‘now’ go hand-in-hand regardless when it comes to consuming.

The idea of timelessness ran through this whole performance. From the setting at London’s fine St Pancras Renaissance Hotel, right through to the speakers and their hosts. This event was all about luxury with a lasting heritage. Backed up by the stat’s, which prove that real quality brings lasting satisfaction, as opposed to instant gratification.

Peter Cross (business partner to Mary Portas Queen of Shops) said “dressing top to toe in new was naff”, envisioned mobile buying by 2015 and said that fortune will favour the brave brands who pull away from this ‘have it your way’ consumer-led approach.

Champagne is usually a good marker when it comes to the luxury-goods industry, even the economy as a whole. Luxury items tend to be the first to go. (Last year’s recorded bubble sales, however, showed a 17 per cent raise from 2010 – the strongest for three years.) But there’s also an argument that sees the likes of champagne quaffing as an escape from economic realities.

Pierre-Aymeric du Cray, G.H. Mumm & Perrier-Jouët Global Sales Director, comes from a family of wine growers in the Côte Châlonnaise, South Burgundy region and worked in various marketing positions within Moët Hennessy before joining the now Pernod Ricard group in 2005. We picked his brain for details….

Pierre Aymeric Du Cray, G.H.Mumm and Perrier-Jouët champagne's Global Sales Director

G.H. Mumm & Perrier-Jouët are two very different brands, which must attract different markets – how would you describe them?

G.H.Mumm is very much about expressing the culture of champagne – you know, being a reference about what made champagne so special; long lasting traditions, the rituals. There’s a magic universe around champagne that we want to perpetuate in a contemporary way. We believe champagne has this association also because of Formula 1, which is the quintessence, if you like, of the champagne celebration.

Formula 1 came to champagne before champagne came to Formula 1. Because one of the winners (I think it was in 1952) opened a bottle of champagne on the podium, but it was not cold enough so the champagne sprayed out everywhere. Everyone found it very funny so they replicated it every time.

So there’s the history of Mumm, which is very much about this masculine elegance. In terms of wine style it’s very much back bone Pinot Noir. You’ve got a real intensity.

With Perrier-Jouët you have this idea to bring beauty and pleasure to life, which is centered by its artistic roots – embodied by the iconic bottle of Belle Epoque. The wine itself has a lot of floral and diamond cut styles. It’s much more feminine.

And where are you seeing the most growth in sales?

For G.H.Mumm it’s France by far – it’s about 50% of the global volume of the brand. So then Italy would be number two. Spain would be number three. England would be number four. Australia is also important for the brand. Then we have some emerging markets like China, Korea.

And if we take Perrier-Jouët it’s a bit different. For that, America would be the number one and then probably Japan (though Japan is even more important in terms of Belle Epoque sales). Then we have France and the UK.

So it shows once again that two brands have a different profile and that there are different market needs or opportunities.

Perrier Jouët Belle Epoque champagne

Marketing must have to work differently again too, how to you go about tackling such a global scale?

We work with an offer strategy rather than demand. We don’t want to be reflecting cycles – we’ve been here for 200 years. Consumers like being shown the best of our knowhow and helped to discover what real wine is. We listen to what the markets are saying and so on but we then make our own decisions

We focus a lot of attention on the emerging markets in South America and Asia – they offer a lot of opportunities. But we want to do it in the right way. We want to make sure that people know how to appreciate it, that they know how to drink it also – so they embrace the heritage and traditions of the champagne culture.

The idea is really to adapt yourself to the current situation of the market that you’re in but at the same time give them the same experience wherever you are in the world. A luxury brand is truly a luxury brand when it’s consistent. So that’s why education is important and why we take time to really do things properly.

What would you say are the top importing countries from the list of emerging markets?

There’s China, obviously, which is really starting to grow. In Asia you’ve got South Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore. You’ve got markets also in Russia. India is starting, though taxes are still quite expensive, which limits the access, but it’s still starting. We had the first Grand Prix of Formula 1 in India last year and really could see the results of champagne consumption setting up in India. There’s South America with Brazil and Mexico, though it’s a bit different because they’ve been exposed to champagne previously.

There’s talk that champagne’s become more of a distraction from the economy, rather than a celebration. Would you agree?

I think champagne remains the icon of celebration. So when you think about a birthday, wedding, Christmas – champagne is part of the celebration, part of the victory, you know. We have definitely diversified with the way we use champagne. It’s more and more perceived as a wine that can fit different moments with gastronomy; it can go for a simple aperitif; it can be used to make an ordinary moment a bit exceptional. So now it’s not only used when times are exceptional but when you want to make the ordinary a bit more special.

We started our Californi-cation in San Francisco, taking advantage of BA’s ability to let you fly in and out of various airports. And, after touching down refreshed a la Club, we were ready to go.

The real journey began (slower than anticipated) once we’d checked in to our usual spot at the Westin St. Francis, bang on Union Square. Fuelled by jet lag overdrive, we marched around the city marveling at the serenity before realising nobody else was around. Even Chinatown was closed at 6am. Hedonists, take note!

American pancake breakfast at Sears Fine Food

Our day then started as soon as Sears Fine Food had opened, with the ultimate American breakfast – 18 pancakes with buttermilk and maple syrup – which we shared. Most of the other diners around us didn’t. Brought back down to earth by our bellies, we then rode around town in the trolleys – Tiffany trolleys, I must add. Before making a special stop at the city’s hottest Mizu spa, where we treated ourselves to mani’s and pedi’s and massages.

Crab was for lunch, salt water taffy for tea (no comment) and an amazing dinner at Kokkari Estiatorio - my most favoured Greek restaurant in San Francisco, even (dare I suggest it) the world. Our night ended at Clift bar (at the Clift Hotel San Francisco) – I take my Frisco-visting traditions seriously, don’t you know (raises ‘pinky finger’ with glass).

From SF, we drove down US1 to one of the most beautiful places I have ever been to (many things are ‘amazing’ in my mind). But on this California road tip – Monterrey and the super pretty Carmel. Wow.

Beautiful jellyfish at Monterrey Bay

We stayed on a deserted beach at the amazing (see!) Monterrey Bay Sanctuary Beach Resort. Room with a view? Oh yes. In-room massage? Hell yeah.

Two days mostly loungin’ (in a veritable coma) saw a couple of trips out though – once to visit the “world famous” (my favourite American expression) Monterrey Aquarium. And another, to follow the trail of what became our trip highlight – Californian wine.

Evan Oakes from AGVenture spent a good part of one day showing us around the Carmel Valley wine region – Chateau Julian, Bernardus and Joullian. Knowing that wine on an empty stomach usually leads to disaster, he also took us to Earthbound organic farm in the valley. We handpicked golden raspberries (and every other berry there was), smelled amazing herbs and even forgot we were in America.

Day six switched us up out of the haze and turned the journey south. Which meant leaving the sun behind and making our drive through Big Sur slightly tedious. Stunning though. And we were even more excited to be on our way to Santa Barbara.

We checked into THE place to stay in Santa Barbara - Canary Hotel, “half a block” from State Street. Beds were high (we needed a step to get on them) and comfortable. But the grape juice from Santa Ynez wines, or should I say Mountains, were calling. And we didn’t even have to venture up the hill. Several tasting rooms have sprung up around town, ready to cater for those in need of a drop (or several). There’s food in town too. One of the best ever dinners of our lives (I kid you not) came from the Bouchon Santa Barbara. Favouring the Santa Barbara ‘Wine Country Cuisine’ approach, it was typically fresh and local with delicious wines to match.

The Santa Ynez Mountains

Coachella Valley’s Palm Desert resort came next. With Westin Mission Hills resort & spa, our home away from home (and I don’t use the word lightly), welcoming us back for a week of R and R.

This area is naughty in its food options – temptation abound with every step. Which could possibly be a ploy to keep you coming back. Satisfaction never fulfilled and all that. This trip’s tasty numbers included Roys Hawaiian Fusion (no guessing what that was about) and 3^rd Corner, where the wine list reaches 800-odd…..Cakebread Reserve for $45? Make that two, please. And so the story continues.

This latest chapter ended (in style, sort of) with San Diego. And a 12-hour power cut. We won’t say who won the award for best ice preparation. Though a special mention goes to Eddie V’s restaurant in stunning La Jolla, five miles north of San Diego. Oysters, shrimp and some of the finest in California Pinot Grigio was slurped and quaffed until they were warm and the place shut down. The sunset was breathtaking, though, (imbued nicely by our little La Jolla feast) and we rolled back to our W (where else?) abode satiated So-Cal style.

We were due to return home mid-afternoon but a timely warning from British Airways allowed us to spend a whole day in town. And enjoy a fantastic last supper at Island Prime San Diego (opposite the airport) – the perfect way to end this trip; with crab, steak and key lime meringue pie, of course.

California, I miss you already!

California Road Trip Planner – Mrs. Ana O

Roman, Byzantine, Latin and Ottoman empires (over the last 28 centuries) have all drawn upon Istanbul’s shores, eager to capture that crucial East meets West accessibility. And now travellers are returning too – in droves, so it seems – heady with the hip happening buzz that’s re-evolving today.

Istanbul travel has been pushed right to the top of the list for 2012.

A new generation of young, wealthy Istanbullus have created demand for contemporary outlets. Which, when set amid such rich cultural offerings (diverse though they are), creates a wonderful juxtaposition. With the ancient architectural backdrop of minarets and domes has come a plush sheen of forward thinking design, presented with the same, now-famed Ottoman craftsmanship and rich Middle Eastern textures and colours.

Exemplary of this bountiful blend is EDITION Istanbul – the first European offering of world-renowned Marriott and Schrager properties (the partnership itself an amalgamation of classic meets contemporary). Ian Schrager is the veritable daddy of boutique hotels and, well, Marriott – need we say more.

Designed first and foremost (by hot New York firm Gabellini Sheppard, no less) as the antithesis to the dreaded hotel chain, EDITION’s Istanbul site presents tailor-made accommodation that’s representative of the city’s rich cultural diversity.

Edition Istanbul ESPA spa

Oversized guestrooms come laden with rosewood, silk and marble; gold and silver leaf adorns the lobby, there’s a three-story ESPA spa, a Cipriani restaurant and much more. But the true purpose of this majestic destination is to make you feel sumptuous (Istanbul-style), rather than just be surrounded by it.

Enter manager, Marcus Loevenforst. He moved from InterContinental Hotels and Resorts (after serving in Stuttgart, Germany, San Francisco, Miami and Toronto) across to The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company (five years in Bahrain, Moscow and Berlin) before moving ‘with the family’ as he says, to head up EDITION Istanbul.

As one of the best hotels in Istanbul you must be able to tell us the Turkish fashion must-haves too….

Technology and Social Media are big in Istanbul. Even in our office people communicate more over that than anything else. There’s a two-month wait on the latest iPhone. The iPad is big. And the new Blackberry. Any of the Androids – they go crazy for it here. Whenever I go abroad people are like ‘bring me back one of those white iPads’.

Ladies over here are extremely chic with the Louis Vuitton handbag like a classic tradition – the younger generations like all those funky coloured ones too. It’s a must have for every lady here. For guys the designer grunge look is big – a Cavalli jacket and a ripped True Religion or D&G jeans, unshaven with long hair.

EDITION’s integrated three-story ESPA spa looks truly sumptuous and rightly so – Turkish baths are legendary. After enjoying your own contemporary surroundings, where would you suggest guests go for more a traditional Istanbul hammam?

We send our guests to the Sultan Ahmet Camii (Blue Mosque) That’s a very old and traditional,  thick marble Turkish bath, where you can have the full hammam cleaning treatment.

Sunset Bar, Istanbul

EDITION provides its own restaurants and nightclub but what other Istanbul restaurants and nightlife destinations live up to your standard?

That’s easy. There’s a place called Sunset, which is built into the mountain. Anyone around the World has heard of Sunset, Istanbul. It has the most stunning view over the Bosphorus and is jam-packed summer and winter. Anyone you bring here just goes ‘wow’.

On the bottom of that hill, right by the water, is Reina, which serves international cuisine with traditional Turkish food. It’s a restaurant that turns into a club.

Then for some down time – what would be on top of your list of things to do in Istanbul?

Take a ferry from the EU to Asian side (and the other way around, of course), through the Black Sea and Bosphorus channel etc. There’s a classic little fishing restaurant there, which is very small but just by the shoreline.

Then there’s Belgrade Forest North West of the city – you need to give it 30 minutes to get there. All the green gives you a very calming, relaxing feeling. It’s not far from the city but this huge forest with its fantastic trees smells completely different from the city – everything’s fresh and earthy.

Grand Bazaar, Istanbul

EDITION is based in Levent, near all those key designer stores – where do you recommend for shopping Istanbul style?

Kanyon Shopping Mall is like your Harvey Nichols of Istanbul. It’s an open concept too – like an atrium style, which is handy in the summer.

Vakko is like the Turkish Prada – it’s a high quality, really elegant label – so it’s best to go here for something unique.

Istinya Park is the biggest mall and has all the designer labels.

And for chic Ottoman craftsmanship and furnishings – as showcased at the EDITION – what shops do you suggest?

We buy all our signature Turkish dishes and coffee cups from Haremlique in Akaretler. They do all your luxury household items with Ottoman craftsmanship. The Grand Bazaar is fab too, for sure.

For architecture go to Topkapi Palace where Muslim culture is combined with Christianity under one roof – very unusual.

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All hail, then, the mastermind behind mulletover events, Stuart Geddes. Habitually clouded in secrecy, these random gatherings, in warehouses and wilderness alike, have become synonymous with underground revelry. Parties have popped up everywhere from Space in Ibiza to Croatia’s Garden Festival. But it’s the east London warehouse parties that are long awaited.

Spawned from the rave days in the ‘80s, warehouse parties (now evolved from their dirtier big brother squatters as well as the free-party scene) are now carefully curated and promoted by teams who have their fingers tapped into the very veins seeping through the world’s top DJs. Gone are the days when a text would lead to a number and finally – if you were lucky – an address. These planned pleasure pits are provided clean and full of propositions. Not thrown at you from every ghastly scum filled corner. Hedonistic-heights are yours for choosing. Which means that each event has to try even harder to keep that cloak of mystery veiled tight right until the very last minute.

The choice this month (as ever) is mulletover’s January Sale.

Held in one of East London’s as yet unknown dis-used warehouses, the line-up features Geddes’ own techno-thumping self, as well as ‘Hyph Mngo’ famed South Londoner, Joy Orbison. His forward-thinking dubstep debut garnered attention the world over and the more recent Lana del Ray ‘Video Games’ remix has attracted hundreds of thousands of YouTube views as well as BBC Radio 1 DJ Zane Lowe’s Hottest Record in the World title. Add to that the founder of Germany’s signature ‘Cologne Sound’ imprints, Kompakt Records Michael Mayer, and you just know this is the party to bring 2012 in with a bang.

We couldn’t wait to see what drops of juicy goodness Geddes could pour upon us…

Stuart Geddes, the main man behind mulletover

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Warehouse parties are big in London but you stand up above the rest with your now legendary mulletover club nights. Why do you think there’s such a call for secrecy when we’ve so many so-called ‘super’ clubs in the capital? 

I don’t think there are so many super clubs in our capital. Or maybe that’s because I’m used to London nightlife and what it has to offer. The only big club in London that has any relevance in my opinion is fabric. Secrecy promotes an underground movement. When we first started mulletover we were the first of our scene to label our parties with a ‘secret location’. Now everyone is trying to do warehouse parties and secret locations are not so secret!

Can you give us a few more insider tips on other obscure places to frequent?

Electric Minds run by my friend Dolan is pretty special. It takes place every month in a photography studio in Shoreditch, with the likes of Move D, Prosumer and Soundstream. It’s for the heads rather than raving with the masses – the loft only holds 300 people and the space adds an ambiance that is well worth checking out. Pop up bars in east London are always fun and exciting, if you can find them or are in the know. Unfortunately I can’t say otherwise that would spoil the fun. The Marksman on Hackney Road does an amazing roast for those that are interested.

What are your most favoured record shops in London?

They’re sadly in decline but Phonica is the most important electronic shop in London, Black Market is still going, which is great – it’s where I first started buying records when I was into drum&bass.

What sort of sounds can people expect from a trip to London and where can they go to find them?

London is the most cosmopolitan city in the world; if you look hard enough you’ll find almost everything in various pockets of the city. Search online and do your research before you come.  Obviously east London is where the creative hub is happening and where most ‘in’ things are happening.

Joy Orbison plays mulletover

Your upcoming night’s been called ‘The Recession Session’ – do you think the economy’s affected the way people party? And if so, how?

Of course the economy affects people and their attitude towards going out. Though times are tough, I think it enhances people’s desires to go out and have a good time and stick two fingers up at the system and politicians who continue to play havoc in our world.

Where do you like to flash the cash in the capital?

I like to spend money on eating out, in particular if you are looking for a recommendation A Little Bit Of What You Fancy is a great restaurant on Kingsland Road.

You’re known to play clubs and festivals abroad – what’s been your most hedonistic memory?

Playing at Glastonbury with my friend Matt two years ago and closing the wow stage. I’ve played at lots of amazing festivals and parties over the years but there’s something about Glastonbury.

What’s your favourite party city? Where do you go and why?

London is my favourite party city because the people and vibe of having a good time is like nowhere else in the world. Apart from London, Berlin is second, for playing records and listening to decent music and being able to party non stop – Panorama bar, Berlin  is one of the only places in Europe that offers that. Of course Robert Johnson in Frankfurt has a special place in my heart.

mulletover January Sale line up

Tickets for this weekend’s mulletover January Sale can be picked up in person from

The Star of Bethnal Green, 359 Bethnal Green Road, E2 6LG. 020 7729 0167

Phonica, 51 Poland Street, W1F 7LZ. 020 7025 6070

Never ones to let the party hangover kick in too long, mulletover have scheduled in an extra little treat this year. Taking their clandestine charades that one step further (whilst in keeping with today’s tastes), a pop up, limited capacity event is planned, with none of the guests announced until the night. We’ll let you know more as and when it’s available.

But, as the hedonistic, travel-hungry thrill seekers that we are, we thought we’d tempt you with a few key recommendations about where the Chinese New Year celebrations are taking place around the World.

Most shenanigans kick off the weekend following, so you’ve plenty of party time planning. And whilst you might not be booking your flights just yet, a little imaginative ‘window shopping’ travel is always fun. So take in Sydney, Dubai, Paris and Beijing and enjoy our pleasure-led picks about where to ring in the Year of the Water Dragon. Or any other time for that matter – our Hg2 city guides (compiled by writers who have lived in each city) have all the best bits for any destination…

CHINESE NEW YEAR, BEIJING

Read our full Beijing city guide here

Traditionally revolving around the Miao Hui, Beijing’s Chinese New Year features colourful fairs on the grounds of Buddhist and Taoist temples. Dragon dances, acrobatics, giant lantern displays and lots of great food can be expected. Try Ditan Park near the Tibetan Lama Temple in the north of the city.

Then head down to Lantern Bar for late-night sessions!

Lantern Bar, Beijing

CHINESE NEW YEAR, DUBAI

Read our full Dubai city guide here

Seen by some as a celebratory nod to Dubai’s growing Chinese community, this Middle Eastern hotspot will be illuminating the sail of its world famous Burj Al Arab (you know that sail-like building?) with a red dragon. As well as the obligatory music performances, dragon dances and Chinese-themed feasts.

The sumptuous selection of Jumeirah sites (home to the Burj Al Arab) are your best bet for luxurious listings.

Burj Al Arab, Dubai

CHINESE NEW YEAR, SYDNEY

Read our full Sydney city guide here

You can always rely on the Australians for a good party. They’ve got two whole weeks of Chinese celebrations on the calendar in Sydney. Events kicked off on January 20^th in Belmore Park, will see a ‘Twilight Parade’ on January 29^th and end with dragon boat races on February 5^th. Bruce Lee tributes, cooking classes, karaoke, tai chi classes on the beach and much more are also on the cards.

For a more luxurious culinary celebration, we recommend China Doll, before heading down to the street-style revelry.

China Doll restaurant, Sydney

CHINESE NEW YEAR, PARIS

Read our full Paris city guide here

A little known fact about Paris is that its Chinatown is the largest in Europe – store that in your quiz night brain box. So Chinese celebrations are mandatory. Its thriving French-Chinese community come together in ‘Quartier Chinois’ for dances, music and dragons. There’s usually live theatre and film screenings thrown in too.

Head to Le China for cocktail-led celebrations and a restaurant that serves Asian fusion of the highest order.

Le China, Paris

Tourism in Sydney is big business, but there’ll always be a place for more personally selected provisions. The Diamant is the kind of place that attracts intelligent individuals who want more of a tailor-made touch for their time. We’re talking the little pernickety details – from a Tatty Devine broach to the simple Hermes scarf, all added with a bit of vintage and bubble pop attitude.

As part of the highly regarded, eclectic collection of individually named and designed 8hotels, The Diamant is on point when it comes to a pad for your head. Punters to this place can even host their own tailor-made after-party. Whether from A-list demand or just shrewd business know-how, their penthouse palace has been made available for cocktail parties, private dinners or longer-term lets. With its panoramic harbour and city views, an exquisite en-suite with spa bath and two guest rooms – this is where things get switched up several notches.

With that in mind, Hg2 figured Diamant manager, Alex Dugdale, would be the perfect person to speak to for unique knowledge. This luxury lighthouse was sure to have the lowdown on other avant-garde outlets in town. From delectable little treats to designer boutiques and even a little outré art, we wanted to know it all….

Diamant Hotel manager Alex Dugdale

The 77 room at Diamant Hotel is said to be the place for nocturnal mischief – what is it about your hotel that attracts such hedonistic thrill seekers?

The Diamant Hotel is located within the sensational triangle of Darlinghurst, Potts Point and Kings Cross. With so much to see and do, as well as being situated in the centre of such a colourful area it’s easy to see why we attract the fun-loving crowd that we do!

And how would you describe your guests? Who would be their celebrity counterpart?

Guests of The Diamant Hotel Sydney are as diverse as they come, with a good mix of leisure and corporate travellers. A celebrity we would probably go for is rising star Mila Kunis – down to earth, sophisticated, intelligent, talented and elegant.

As one of the best boutique hotels in Sydney you must surely attract people that like independent shopping outlets too – any chic updates we should know about? 

There are more and more cute little boutique stores popping up every week. A personal favourite (at the moment!) is definitely Diederick the Cat and Alfies Friend Rolfe on Darlinghurst Road; two great little boutiques with an excellent selection of clothes which are hard to find anywhere else.

Time To Vino, Sydney bar

What kind of nightlife recommendations do you usually give your boutique-loving guests?

Being a boutique hotel, we love to offer suitable recommendations to our boutique-loving guests! Therefore, we definitely recommend starting the night with wine at Time To Vino wine bar, which is adjacent to the Diamant Hotel and moving on to Eau De Vie speakeasy tucked away behind our sister property the Kirketon Hotel on Darlinghurst road. Across from there is The Passage, which is a great small bar, perfect for a twirl on the dance floor.

Australia Day is just round the corner – how do Sydney’s locals celebrate in their city?

As it is a Public Holiday, everyone will be out and about. The beaches will be packed and barbeques will be cooking an awful lot of sausage sizzles. One of the city’s biggest annual festivals, Big Day Out is also on at Sydney Showground.

Where else do you like to go on your days off – insider recommendations please!

On my days off I head straight for The Northern Beaches. You are always guaranteed a nice day out either at the beach, on a pushbike or simply just exploring the beautiful surroundings – you can’t go wrong. There are great exhibitions on in the city, but for a great day of exploration and “Graffiti art” Cockatoo Island  is a definite must-do – it’s one of Sydney’s most interesting and historically rich islands that you are free to just wander around and explore for yourself.

North Beaches, Sydney

You’ve got a hot date coming over from Paris for the weekend – describe your entertainment itinerary.

There would definitely be some sightseeing included! Starting with a ferry ride from Circular Quay to Manly (get ready for some beautiful shots from the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge!). Enjoy a lovely lunch at the Manly Wharf Bar and let the food settle while lazing around on Manly beach. On the way back; dinner and drinks at the Opera Bar at sunset and then back to the Diamant Hotel for a well-earned night of sleep. Breakfast the next morning at Fratelli Fresh, shopping at the boutique stores along Oxford St accompanied by a long easy lunch at one of the many old fashioned pubs tucked in the back streets of Paddington. In the evening, dinner at the Gazebo Wine Garden close by from the Diamant, followed by drinks at Eau de Vie to wrap up the weekend.

What should we be on the look out for Sydney in 2012?

Hopefully more sister hotels for the Diamant brand, but definitely more hotels within the 8Hotels family!

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Having re-invented itself as a cosmopolitan capital (with the cocktails to match), everyone from Vivienne Westwood to Missoni, Dior and Louis Vuitton have flocked to meet demand from these raring to go Lebanese. The art scene’s growing and bars and restaurants are popping up like a broken line of jack-in-the-boxes. Quite frankly, it’s hard to keep pace.

Which is why we contacted man about town, Mr Mario Haddad – our very own Beirut guide. Not to mention the Beirut restaurant (read plural!) owner of Al Falamanki (Lebanese cuisine), The Jasmine Room (Chinese) and Le Sushi Bar (imagination please, dear readers).

The rather dashing (in an impressive pony-tailed kind of way) chap knows all about the Beirut nightlife, hotels in Beirut, as well as those extra special residential outlets that only a long term citizen knows.

Mario Jr Haddad, Beirut restaurant owner

How long have you been a resident of Beirut and what makes it such a special city?

I was born in Beirut and have lived in this city my entire life, except for the odd few years during the war when I attended school and university in Switzerland and London. Beirut is a city of contrasts; old buildings adjacent to modern skyscrapers, women in veils drinking coffee on a table next to young girls in miniskirts sipping on beer – the lot in an explosive mixture of 18 different religions and sects.  Add to that the infamous joie de vivre garnered from generations of deprivation and the result is an amazing and unique place.

Have you seen a change in the type of visitor who comes to Beirut over the last couple of years?

Indeed, in the last couple of years Beirut has witnessed flocks of art-savvy European crowds that were missing from the tourist scene.

What drew you to the restaurant world and what do you find exciting about the local cuisine?

I ventured into the world of restaurants at a fairly young age because of my love of food. My dad being a renowned food aficionado, I quickly caught the bug. But what I find most exciting about the local cuisine is the freshness and wide array of local produce.

Al Falamanki, Beirut Restaurant

Can you give us the perfect recipe for creating a quintessential Lebanese dish?

Stuffed Cabbage Leaves:

Undress the Cabbage into large individual leaves, blanch them in boiling water for 1 minute.  Pat-dry them and remove the stem as to cut the leaf in two. (Do not discard the stems.)

Prepare a mixture made of: 1 cup short grain rice and 300grms of hashed beef and place them in a bowl. Season lightly with salt, pepper and a pinch of cumin.

Take a small amount of the mixture and place on the cabbage leaf and roll it as if rolling a spring roll. Repeat this step until you have used the entire quantity.

In a deep pot place the stems in the bottom to create a protection for the wraps. Start placing your wraps in a circular manner neatly in the pot inserting sporadically unpeeled cloves of garlic in between.

Submerge the wraps in beef stock and place on high heat until stock starts to boil then simmer on low heat for 45 minutes.

About 10 minutes before it is entirely cooked through add 3 cloves of crushed garlic along with a generous tablespoon of dry mint and the juice of 1 lemon.

Once done, flip the pot into a flat serving dish and serve with a side bowl of plain yoghurt.

For those of us wanting to get off the tourist trail, what are the hidden gems that only a long-time resident would know about?

Three names come to my mind; Maguy in Batroun, Al Sakhra in Chemlan, Varouj in Burj Hammoud. They are three very different yet authentic gems that only few locals know about.

Outside of your restaurant group, where do you tend to eat and drink? Where do you think is really special or wish you’d thought of?

You’ll find some really cool bars in Hamra and Gemmayze and more recently in Mar Mikhael, which is an artsy up-and-coming district. My personal favourites are De Prague in Hamra, Dragonfly in Gemmayze and Dictateur in Mar Mikhael.

In summer try rooftop bars such as Iris or Fly Bar or visit the newly opened Urugway street and enjoy a drink in one of the many outdoor terraces. As for restaurants I like the smaller bistros like Goutons-voir and the cozy refined eateries like Burgundy and Albergo.

Al Falamanki, Beirut Restaurant

What do you see as the drinking and dining trends in Beirut at the moment?

Gastro pubs and organic food restaurants.

What is going to be exciting in Beirut in 2012, what new restaurant/bar/club openings are you looking forward to and are there any major events we should be attending?

There are new restaurants, bars and clubs opening literally every week in Beirut so it would be impossible to list the most exciting but I personally am looking forward to the much anticipated opening of Sultan Brahim in the Jounieh Bay.

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How that will translate stateside is yet to be realised. It’s uncertain what the most popular food in America is at the moment. Indian restaurants in New York are definitely on the up though. And with Vivek Singh popping up his expertise at Desmond’s quintessential (not to mention well-healed) New York haunt we’re sure to find out soon.

You might already recognise the top chef from the telly – he’s a regular on BBC’s Saturday Kitchen, Celebrity Masterchef and UKTV’s Market Kitchen. And there’s three of his cookbooks out there to choose from too.

That’s not to say his top table tickets are any less for all the fame. The Cinnamon Club is fine dining, don’t you know. With the awards, and the notoriety, to prove it – from the World Food Awards to the Toptable Award, even a Cool Brands tip and Sustainable Restaurant Association Award.

If anyone can boost the image of Indian food in America, it’s Vivek. Pairing with Desmond’s chef and co-owner David Hart (formerly of London’s SoHo House and Claridge’s) and his partner Richard O’Hagen (known for his hospitality skills with Mark Birley at Annabels’) is a winner in itself….

Vivek Singh. the Cinnamon Club, London

You’re off to New York next month for a Cinnamon Club pop-up at Desmond’s. How and why did the pairing come about?

The synergy between The Cinnamon Club, a modern Indian restaurant in the grade II-listed Old Westminster Library in London, and Desmond’s, on Manhattan’s Upper East Side is simple; both are dedicated to food that is fresh, creative and beautifully presented, while both attract the same discerning foodies in similarly stylish surroundings. We can’t wait to start serving on 4th February!

Can we expect to see more permanent Cinnamon-style provisions there in future?

It’s definitely something we’re thinking about: we’ve got Cinnamon Soho London opening at the beginning of March, and that is our priority for the first part of 2012, but we’re keen to see how the New York pop-up will be received by Manhattan’s foodies — and its press! And then, who knows.  Manhattan has always been on TCC’s radar. The Cinnamon CLUB definitely has the potential to expand overseas and cities like New York, Tokyo or Paris would make sense.

Desmond's restaurant, New York

Your classic yet contemporary cuisine has really increased the image of Indian food in the UK but how does that translate over in the states? What New York-based Indian restaurants would you recommend?

We’ve incorporated plenty of US-specific ingredients into the Desmond’s menu: Alaskan salmon; Amish chicken; and Long Island duck, for instance. When it comes to Indian restaurants in New York, Tamarind is a cut above the others — I particularly like the Tea Room!

Where else in the city do you like to go for food? What three restaurants do you recommend we try?

There are so many places to eat at in New York, it’s hard to know where to start — but when it comes to food, it really is the city that never sleeps. I’d recommend Pastis for brunch and people-watching on a Saturday or Sunday, but for dinner it’s got to be the Robert De Niro restaurant at the Greenwich Hotel, Locanda Verde. Italian sharing plates at their very best! I also like the Red Rooster in Harlem, where Obama ate last year; Harlem is one of the coolest places to eat in New York right now, and this place does American fare like nowhere else. And of course Danny Meyer‘s uber sophisticated Gramercy Tavern.

We’re sure you’ve got some swanky accommodation to bed-down in – who’s on your top list?

It has to be The Standard hotel New York. It’s got views of the High Line and Meatpacking District and brilliant cocktails in the Living Room lounge bar downstairs.

Finally, should you get any time off, where would you go to chill out?

I like to rent a car and head to the Hamptons for some much-needed peace and quiet! Weather permitting, of course!

The One-Eyed Gypsy, LA

This lady is the Queen of style when it comes to interior design inspiration from LA. Forget the long list of celebrity endorsements that follow like litter behind her name. Dana Hollister needs no head but her own to hold up these creations.

LA’s Cliff’s Edge restaurant and 4100 Bar in Silver Lake, the Brite Spot diner in Echo Park, Villains Tavern and The One-Eyed Gypsy in downtown LA all fall under her spell.

Go to any of these places and you’ll see the great spread of influence Hollister has in engaging – both within and surrounding her bars.

The One-Eyed Gypsy, LA

Tim Burton, Courtney Love, Robert Downey Jr. and Patricia Arquette (Ahem!) are just some of those yearning for more. There’s sure to be several other LA interior designers hating or loving too – depending on their business angle.

You see, Hollister’s not content with just her creations enveloping you in their deep velveteen hold – she aims to enliven every sensual aspect within you. By tracking down the grittiest of places and shining them into gems. Think opulence, luxury, bohemian and baroque and you’re starting to get there. But that’s just the surface.

Her places are like cult film sets, with all the stars and moods and adventures there for the taking. LA nightlife would be incomplete without her.

She’s bought up and reinvigorated whole areas in LA – much in the same way she used vintage fabrics during her formative years as an interior designer.

We couldn’t wait to take a trip into her mind….

How long have you been living in LA, can you tell us a little bit about your background and what drew you to the restaurant and bar world?

I moved to LA from Chicago in 1984. My background was in styling and photography. I moved into interior design, and ran a very successful company, Odalisque, for a number of years. It was a natural progression for me to move from creating private spaces to public spaces.

Your bars, Villains Tavern and The One-Eyed Gypsyhave a very distinct look – what inspired this and where will it take you next?

I like to take visitors to my bars and restaurants on a sensual and sensory journey. Making a cocktail or a menu item is only a part of creating a great experience. What I try to do is envelop you in memorable surroundings to elevate your experience to the ‘extraordinary’.

Can you give us an example of one of the bar’s signature cocktails?

Our cocktail programs at Villains Tavern, The One-Eyed Gypsy, and Cliff’s, are constantly changing with the seasons and with the different things that inspire our brilliant mixologists. Right now, I’m particularly in love with the ‘Déjà Vu’, at Villains Tavern, and the ‘Bitter Pill’ at Cliff’s.

Villains Tavern, LA

What are the current trends in the LA bar scene – what’s going to be hot in the next 12 months or so? 

What makes LA so interesting is that there has been such an enormous explosion in cocktail culture that there’s no single big trend, but a lot of people doing very innovative things with drinks. Dave Whitton, at Villains Tavern is working on drinks with ‘shrub’. A ‘shrub’ is a concoction made from fruits and vinegars that adds an interesting acidic component to a cocktail and takes the place of the usual citrus. It’s going to be a big trend in the coming year, for sure.

As an LA resident can you point us in the direction of a few of your favourite restaurants and bars (aside from your own) and what make them so special?

I love Musso and Frank because it’s like stepping back in time to a gilded age of Hollywood. It’s been there since the early 1900’s. Nancy Silverton always astounds me with just how spot on she is, and her Osteria Mozza never disappoints. Animal restaurant always entertains me. Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo make fine dining accessible, fun and surprising. Cedd Moses always creates great bars. I still love Seven Grand.

For any first-time visitor – where should they visit to the have the quintessential LA experience, without being too touristy?

There are many ‘quintessential LA experiences’, but to start with I’d suggest a trip to Downtown. It’s the most exciting part of LA right now, which is why I opened my bars there. The wealth of incredible historic architecture is amazing. A visit to the Bradbury Building is a must. The LA Conservancy runs some great tour programs, so check out their website for details. After that, I’d say dinner or brunch at Cliff’s Edge, sitting out on the patio on a balmy evening or a beautiful weekend morning, even in January – it could only be LA.

Los Angeles

What are the hidden gems that only a long term LA resident would really know about?

The Philosophical Research Society is a library on Los Feliz Blvd. that houses books from all the various philosophies and religions of the world. It’s a great place to go and enjoy silence on a hot day. Nearby is Griffith Park, a wonderful place to hike and look out over the whole of LA on a clear day. Within the park is Trails Café, a great little outdoor café nestled among the trees. The Grand Central Market in Downtown is conveniently across the street from the incredible Bradbury Building, a masterpiece of Victorian ironwork, beautifully restored. You can gawp at the lobby of the building, then buy amazing chilis and spices, or all kinds of food in the market. And then wander around Downtown soaking up the incredible vitality and beautiful buildings.

What are you most excited about in 2012, are there any openings coming up that are going to reshape the industry?

I’m excited about a number of projects that I have in the pipeline. Notably, I’m turning a disused church in Silver Lake into a boutique hotel, with a restaurant. It’s going to be beautiful. It’s in early stages right now, but you’ll be hearing more as 2012 progresses.

The current head of the Brennan portfolio joined in the early ‘80s as one of eight third-generation cousins active in the industry at the time. He’s since become known as a tireless spokesman for the city and indeed the restaurant industry. His acclaim has been recognised with an appointment to the U.S. Travel Association Board of Directors. And his voice is heard among many a Louisiana business association.

The family restaurant group spans cafes and restaurants throughout the area, offering all the local delicacies. From gumbo to praline, jazz and Disney – it’s all on offer in his outlets.

Ralph Brennan

How long have you been a resident of New Orleans and what makes it such a special city

I was born and raised in this great city of New Orleans and could not be more proud. New Orleans is special because it is full of flavour – in food as well as people. There is such a richness of diversity that influences our music, traditions, cuisine, language, and every aspect of the city.

For those of us wanting to get off the tourist trail, what are the hidden gems that only a long-time resident would know about?

My favourite places are the Hermann-Grima and Gallier Historic Houses in the French Quarter, the New Orleans Museum of Art and City Park in Mid-City, a street car ride along St. Charles Avenue and a visit to nearby Magazine Street, which is many blocks of eclectic shopping and dining.

Is the city beginning to return to normal post-Katrina, are tourists returning and what do you make of the recovery sitting alongside the economic conditions of the last three years?

Yes, many parts of the city including the iconic tourist areas like the French Quarter have been back for some time. However, with the compounded effect of the economy, the number of visitors remains 20% below pre-Katrina levels.  New Orleans has been very fortunate to garner a lot of free publicity from the success of the New Orleans Saints football team and the hosting of major sporting events like the BCS NCAA Championship Game, The Sugar Bowl, and the 2013 Super Bowl.  These events tell the World that New Orleans is open for business.

Ralph's on the Park

You have several restaurants in New Orleans, ranging from cafés to haute cuisine – but what’s your signature style?

The Ralph Brennan Restaurant Group includes seven restaurants and a new catering service. Red Fish Grill in the New Orleans French Quarter, Ralph’s on the Park in Mid-City New Orleans, café NOMA within the New Orleans Museum of Art, Heritage Grill in Metairie, café b in Metairie, Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen® located in the Downtown Disney® District at the DISNEYLAND® Resort, and Ralph Brennan Catering & Events.

Our signature style will always remain based around the bounty of the gulf, as that is the source of our community and something I am very passionate about. With today’s economy, I have recently moved to a more casual side of dining with the opening of café NOMA and café b, offering elevated cuisine with a more neighbourhood feel.

What drew you to the restaurant world and what do you find exciting about the local cuisine?

I was drawn to the restaurant world at a young age as my family has been involved in the culinary community for three generations. But my passion for restaurants and hospitality was ignited as a teenager in the 1960’s with a summer job as a prep cook at the original Brennan’s Restaurant on Royal Street in the New Orleans French Quarter.

The local cuisine continues to surprise me with the way chef’s have learned to incorporate traditional New Orleans techniques and ingredients while presenting each dish with contemporary flair.

Gumbo is a personal favourite of ours, can you give us the perfect recipe for creating the quintessential New Orleans gumbo?

The chances of two Louisiana cooks coming up with gumbos that are exactly alike are about the same as the New Orleans Saints football team winning two Super Bowls in succession. Gumbo, which can be light as broth or thick as stew, is the quintessential dish of both Crèole and Cajun cooking. 

Creole Creamery, New Orleans

Outside of your restaurant group, where do you tend to eat and drink? Where do you think is really special or wish you’d thought of?

I feed my addiction to chocolate milkshakes at Creole Creamery uptown on Prytania Street. I make it a point to eat out often in new restaurants around town. Usually in smaller boutique restaurants like Gautreau’s or at a restaurant like Baru for small plates, tapas and outdoor seating.