Sommaire pour Issue 16 de eat.live.escape

connect: Instagram @eat.live.escape | Twitter @eatliveescape | facebook.com/eatliveescape There’s something timeless about France. A place where the hum of everyday life is softened by good wine, classic fashion, lavender fields, warm bread, and cheese - oh so much cheese! This edition is a love letter to France. We head to Provence and wander through sleepy villages, sipping rosé under fig trees, and soaking in the scent of wild herbs. We round up some of the must-visit destinations in the country, from those on the well trodden path to those a little more offbeat. In our kitchen, we turn the pages of Handfuls of Sunshine by Tilly Pamment, a cookbook that feels like a sweet summer’s day captured on a plate, and share some classic Aussie seafood recipes by Chef Guy…

Leila San Diego, USA San Diego’s food scene is heating up, and one of our favourite new spots leading the charge is Leila, a Middle Eastern garden oasis in North Park that’s become so popular, locals are planning their nights around snagging a table. Set beneath twinkling lights and Moroccan lanterns, this lush 4,800-square-foot space offers more than just good food; it’s a full sensory experience. Inspired by the founder’s Iranian heritage, Leila blends tradition and innovation, with Executive Chef Wesley Remington Johnson serving modern interpretations of classic dishes like saffron-infused tahdig and flame-grilled koobideh. A dramatic open kitchen with fire pits and tandoor ovens sets the tone, while the drinks menu showcases Middle Eastern wines, arak-based cocktails, and a detailed tea service, all adding up to a dining experience…

CHILLI JAM This is a sweet, spicy jam that makes a perfect replacement for sweet chilli sauce. Try it in marinades for sticky barbecued chicken wings or pork ribs, or with ricotta and salami in a sandwich. We use long red chillies and keep the seeds in, as they generally have plenty of heat without being too fiery, but this is also great with green chillies. PREPARATION TIME: 30 mins , plus 20 mins sterilisingCOOKING TIME: 1½ hoursSTORAGE: up to 1 yearMAKES: 4 x 300ml (10½ fl oz /1¼ cup) jars Ingredients 100 ml (3½ fl oz/scant ½ cup) vegetable oil500 g (1 lb 2 oz) onions, thinly sliced1 tsp ground coriander1 tsp ground cumin1 kg (2 lb 4 oz) long red chillies, thinly sliced500 ml (17 fl oz/2 cups)…

PIMP UP YOUR BREAKFAST For a quick breakfast or snack, stir pomegranate seeds into Greek yoghurt, overnight oats, or chia pudding. They bring a natural sweetness and crunch that balances creamy textures perfectly. SWEET TREATS Add a handful of pomegranate seeds to cakes, pavlovas, panna cottas, or even ice cream. They not only make desserts look stunning but add a fresh burst that cuts through sweetness. SHAKE INTO COCKTAILS Pomegranate juice is a great base for cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks. Add it to a gin and tonic, a margarita twist, or mix with soda water, mint, and lime for a refreshing spritz. The juice also works well frozen into ice cubes for a pop of colour and flavour. SPRINKLE OVER SALADS Pomegranate seeds add freshness and a subtle tang to…

COCONUT JAM DROPS Now, I like a good plain biscuit almost as much as I do a plain cake, and jam drops would have to be one of the finest plain biscuits around. They were one of the first biscuits that I learnt to bake – and if any biscuits were designed to be made by children, it would have to be jam drops! For they are positively clamouring to be shaped by eager little hands and enthusiastically poked at to make way for a (slightly too big) spoonful of jam. What they lack in finesse they surely make up for in charm. Ingredients (makes about 24 biscuits) 125 g (4 1/2 oz) unsalted butter, softened55 g (2 oz) caster (superfine) sugar1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste110 g (3 3/4 oz)…

Ingredients For the Cake 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened1¾ cups (350g) sugar4 large eggs1 teaspoon vanilla extract1 cup (240ml) sour cream½ cup (120ml) strong brewed coffee, cooled1¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour¾ cup (75g) unsweetened cocoa powder1½ teaspoons baking soda½ teaspoon baking powder½ teaspoon salt For the chocolate drizzle 1 cup (170g) dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate½ cup (120ml) heavy cream1 tablespoon (14g) unsalted butter Topping ½ cup (60g) crushed salted nuts (such as pecans, almonds, hazelnuts, or walnuts) Method 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-cup (2.4L) Bundt pan. 2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract, sour…

Ingredients 60ml vodka120ml tomato juice10ml lemon juice (freshly squeezed)4 dashes Worcestershire sauce2 dashes hot sauce (like Tabasco)1 pinch celery salt1 pinch ground black pepperIce cubes For the garnish: 1 mini gherkin1 green olive1 lemon wedge1 cocktail skewer Method Fill a tall glass with ice and set aside to chill. In a cocktail shaker or mixing glass, combine the vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, celery salt, and black pepper. Stir well (don’t shake) to blend the flavours. Assemble the garnish On a small skewer, thread the mini gherkin and green olive. Prepare a lemon wedge on the side or notch it to sit on the rim. Pour and finish Discard the ice from the glass if melted, then fill with fresh ice. Strain the Bloody Mary mix…

MENTON, SOUTH OF FRANCE Tucked between the glamour of Monaco and the Italian border, Menton is one of the South of France’s most charming and underrated destinations. Known as “The Pearl of France,” this sun-drenched coastal town has all the beauty of the Riviera without the flash, offering pastel-hued buildings, cobbled streets, lush gardens, and sweeping sea views that feel more Italian than French, and for good reason. With a history shaped by both cultures, Menton blends French elegance with Italian warmth, evident in everything from its architecture and food to the lilting accent of the locals. It's a slower, more relaxed corner of the Côte d’Azur, perfect for travellers looking to experience the South of France at its most authentic. One of the best reasons to visit Menton is…

Aman has unveiled its new Medical Wellness experiences across three properties: Aman Nai Lert Bangkok, Amanpuri in Thailand, and Aman New York. This latest evolution in the brand’s wellness philosophy reflects a deepened commitment to offering guests more than relaxation, it’s a journey toward optimal health, longevity, and personal transformation. Each destination offers a distinct, place-specific approach to wellbeing, thoughtfully integrating advanced medical practices with time-honoured holistic therapies. Together, these offerings signal Aman's dedication to reshaping the future of luxury wellnesswhere state-of-the-art medicine meets soulful, restorative experiences in some of the world’s most tranquil and refined settings. aman.com…

Crete, Greece Vilebrequin La Plage has officially debuted at the Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection, reimagining the luxury beach experience on the sun-kissed shores of Crete. This new lifestyle concept marks a bold collaboration between the iconic French Riviera brand and Domes Resorts, bringing a fresh wave of barefoot elegance to the Mediterranean. Set on a secluded three-acre private beach framed by ancient olive groves and the crystal-clear waters of Mirabello Bay, the beach club channels the spirit of 1970s Saint-Tropez with a distinctly Cretan soul. Designed by celebrated French creative Vincent Darré, the space comes alive with playful sophistication, striped sunbeds, pastel parasols, hand-painted ceramics, and Riviera-chic cabanas set the tone for stylish relaxation. It's a place where luxury is woven into the fabric of everyday life, a philosophy…

Villa Miraé is one of those rare places that captures the true spirit of the South of France, elegant, intimate, and effortlessly luxurious. Set on the sun-soaked Cap d’Antibes, this five-star retreat offers the kind of escape that feels both indulgent and deeply restorative. Whether you’re wandering through its beautifully landscaped Mediterranean gardens, relaxing by the pool with a chilled glass of rosé, or waking up to the sound of waves in one of its refined rooms, every moment at Villa Miraé feels like a quiet celebration of French coastal living. The villa’s interiors, redesigned by acclaimed interior designer Oscar Lucien Ono, strike a perfect balance between sophistication and warmth. Rich textures, curated art, and soft natural light create a space that feels both exclusive and deeply comfortable. As part…

They warn you about Provence, but in the gentlest of ways, like an aunt who smiles as she tells you, “Just be careful, you might never want to come back.” I thought I understood what they meant. I’d seen the photos: golden stone villages, lavender fields stretching to the horizon, sun-drenched lunches under olive trees. But nothing prepares you for the real thing. Provence doesn't just charm you. It slows you down, rewires you, and then sends you home wondering why your local café doesn’t serve rosé by the carafe before noon. I spent a week there this summer, just me, a suitcase full of floaty clothes, and a vague list of dreams. No tight itinerary. No big goals. Just a hope for good bread, better wine, and maybe one…

‘Once you've read a book you care about, some part of it is always with you’- Louis L'Amour From multimillion-selling New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Niven comes a gripping new thriller set in the high-stakes world of ambition and storytelling. When eight students arrive at an exclusive writers’ retreat, they’re all chasing the same dream—but only one will leave with a life-changing opportunity. As tensions rise and rivalries deepen, the line between fiction and reality begins to blur, and it becomes clear that not everyone is willing to play fair. From Miranda Cowley Heller, bestselling author of The Paper Palace and longlisted for the 2022 Women’s Prize for Fiction, comes a deeply personal debut poetry collection that traces the emotional arc of a life. What the Deep Water Knows…

Chemical Peel Aftercare The Do’s and Don’ts for Glowing Results DO follow your dermatologist or esthetician’s instructions carefully They know your skin type and the strength of the peel used, so any pre- or post-peel care they recommend is essential for proper healing and to avoid complications like irritation or uneven results. Stick to the exact products and timeline they provide. DO wear sunscreen every single day After a chemical peel, your skin becomes much more vulnerable to UV damage, even indoors or on cloudy days. Use a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30, and reapply every few hours if you're spending time outside. This protects against pigmentation issues and supports proper healing. DO keep your skin well-moisturised As your skin peels and renews itself, it’s crucial to maintain moisture…

Farmhouse Living Add a touch of the french countryside with these pretty homewares. *ele Style TIP* For a timeless French country farmhouse look, mix natural textures with soft, neutral tones, think weathered wood, linen, and muted creams or greys, then layer in vintage touches like an antique mirror, a rustic ceramic jug, or a chandelier with patina to create warmth and lived-in charm without feeling overly styled.…

Stretching across nearly 2,000 acres just outside of Paris, the Gardens of Versailles are one of the most breathtaking and historically significant landscapes in the world. Designed by legendary landscape architect André Le Nôtre in the 17th century, these formal French gardens were created to reflect the absolute power and control of Louis XIV. WHERE Versailles is about 40 minutes from Paris by train. Take the RER C line in the direction of Versailles Château, Rive Gauche and walk about 10 minutes to the palace entrance. It’s an easy day trip, and well worth carving out a full day to explore the palace and the gardens, especially if the fountains are running. WHEN TO VISIT The gardens are open year-round, but the best time to go is from late spring…

Melbourne, Australia Melbourne’s dining scene has a bold new addition with the opening of Duke Lane, a vibrant Latin American-inspired restaurant that brings colour, flavour, and energy to the heart of Windsor. Blending the lively spirit of Latin cuisine with Melbourne’s love for shared plates and standout cocktails, Duke Lane is set to become a go-to for long lunches, intimate dinners, and late-night catch-ups. Wednesdays are already a highlight, thanks to their $10 margarita special, perfect for winding down or kicking off the night. The menu is full of flavour-packed dishes, from Arepitas with Beef Brisket and Burrata Salad to Sesame Seared Tuna and a 300g Porterhouse served with your choice of creamy pepper sauce or chimichurri. For those with a sweet tooth (or just a sense of fun), the…

You don’t need a cocktail bar or a professional mixologist on hand to make your drinks look like they came from a five-star speakeasy. In fact, some of the most impressive cocktail garnishes are surprisingly easy to master with a few tools and the right ingredients. Whether you’re hosting friends, building your home bar skills, or simply want to elevate your Friday night Negroni, here are some insider garnish tricks that instantly make your drinks feel polished and Instagram-ready. 1. THE PERFECT CITRUS TWIST There’s a reason citrus twists are a bartender’s go-to. They’re elegant, aromatic, and incredibly versatile. Use a vegetable peeler to slice a strip of zest from an orange, lemon, or grapefruit. Hold it over your drink and give it a gentle twist to release the oils…

BEEF, BROCCOLINI AND NOODLE STIR-FRY BY COBRAM ESTATE Ingredients (serves 8-10) 400g Hokkien noodles500g beef rump steak, thinly sliced2 tablespoons Cobram Estate Light ExtraVirgin Olive Oil½ tablespoons Chinese five spice powder2 tablespoons kecap manis (sweet soy sauce)2 teaspoon honey1 teaspoon finely grated ginger2 cloves garlic, crushed1 red onion, halved, thinly sliced1 bunch broccolini, trimmed, halved1 cup sugar snap peas, trimmed1 tsp black or white sesame seeds, toasted¼ cup roasted salted cashews2 green shallots, thinly sliced on diagonal1 red chilli, thinly sliced on diagonal Method 1. Put noodles in a large bowl and cover with hot water. Set aside for 5 minutes to slightly soften and loosen up. Drain well. 2. Meanwhile, combine beef, Cobram Estate Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Chinese five spice powder and 1 tablespoon of the kecap manis…

CHILLI & LIME SALMON SKEWERS Ingredients (serves 4 500g Tassal Fresh Tassie Salmon fillet (skin on, cut into cubes)2 tbsp olive oil2 tbsp lime juice (about 1 lime)1 tsp lime zest1 tsp honey (optional)1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)½ tsp smoked paprika½ tsp garlic powder½ tsp salt¼ tsp black pepperWooden skewers (soaked in water for 15 minutes) For the Labneh 1 cup labneh (or thick Greek yogurt)1 tbsp olive oil½ tsp salt½ tsp ground cumin (optional, for extra depth)Fresh herbs (mint, parsley, or dill) for garnish 1. Prepare the Salmon Skewers In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, honey, chili flakes, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add salmon cubes and toss to coat. Marinate for 15-30 minutes. Thread the salmon onto skewers. 2. Cook the…

ele LOVES Travel Wear Founded by Clare Barrins in 2023, Sheila was created to empower women with clothing that blends comfort, confidence, and ease of movement. Designed with versatility in mind, Sheila pieces are perfect for European getaways, effortlessly transitioning from beachside cocktails to city exploration. The collection combines style and function, making it ideal for women who want to feel relaxed yet polished on the go. Among its standout items is the Celeste One Piece, a travel essential for any European summer wardrobe. sheilathelabel.com HISTORY REIMAGINED Housed in the historic former Palace of Justice, Rosewood Amsterdam marks the brand’s first entry into the Netherlands and stands as the final hotel development permitted within a monumental building in the city. Following ten years of meticulous restoration, this 1665-built landmark on…

What To Do in Paris Whether you are visiting for a few days or a few weeks, there is no shortage of things to see, do and experience in the City of Lights. Why Visit? Paris is a celebration of beauty in everyday life. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, the French capital has a way of captivating you all over again. There’s the romance of the Seine, the grandeur of the architecture, the soft clatter of café cutlery, and that sense of timeless elegance found nowhere else. From world-famous landmarks to quiet corners filled with charm, Paris is a city that rewards slow exploration and curious eyes. What to do There’s no shortage of ways to fill your days in Paris. Start with the icons: the Eiffel…

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‘French people value their time and energy, and they’re not afraid to protect it' If you've ever dreamed of living with the effortless elegance of the French, you're not alone. French style isn’t just about fashion or interior design, it’s a whole way of life. From savoring slow mornings with café au lait to embracing a more relaxed, yet refined approach to everyday living, Frenchifying your life is about infusing each day with a touch of beauty, simplicity, and joie de vivre. Whether it’s revamping your wardrobe, curating a cozy home, or adopting the French philosophy of ‘taking your time,’ here are some simple yet impactful ways to bring a little more of that French flair into your routine. Master the Art of the Capsule Wardrobe French style isn’t trend-driven,…

Aragula, Prosciutto and Tomato Pizza Ingredients For the Dough 2 cups (300g) plain flour (plus extra for dusting)1 tsp instant dry yeast¾ tsp sea salt1 tsp sugar¾ cup (180ml) warm water1 tbsp olive oil For the Toppings 1 cup passata or crushed tomatoes1 tsp olive oil (for sauce)Salt & pepper, to taste½ tsp dried oregano1 clove garlic, finely grated1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved100g fresh mozzarella, torn80g prosciutto slices2 cups fresh rocket (arugula)Finely grated parmesan (to taste)Extra olive oil for drizzling 1. In a large bowl, mix flour, yeast, salt, and sugar. Add warm water and olive oil. Stir until it comes together, then knead on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean tea towel, and let rise for…

I arrived in Lyon with one suitcase, zero self-control, and the vague idea that I’d try some “local food.” What I didn’t realise was that Lyon is less a city and more a giant open-air pantry filled with wine, melted cheese, and people who take lunch more seriously than most take marriage. Spoiler: I ate everything. Twice. Let’s start in Vieux Lyon, where the buildings are charming, the streets are cobbled, and I was seated at a table within 15 minutes of arrival. Priorities. The first thing I ordered was a salade lyonnaise, which is technically a salad but really just an excuse to eat fried pork belly and a poached egg for breakfast without shame. The frisée lettuce tries to act like it’s the star, but everyone knows it’s…