HUNGER’s MVP of the week

Welcome to HUNGER’s Most Valuable Player, the place to find the best things to buy, watch, do or listen to each week. Forget about the hype, we want to separate what’s hot, what’s not, and what needs to be on your radar...

Kicking off this week’s MVP, we have none other than iconic tequila brand Casamigos, coming just in time for your fun-filled weekend motives. With no less than four blends of uniquely favoured variants, there’s something for everyone. Firstly, Casamigos Blanco rests for two months, offering a smooth tequila with tastebud-tingling hints of citrus, vanilla and sweet agave. Meanwhile, Casamigos Reposado, aged seven months, comes with hints of caramel and cocoa alongside a slightly oaky flavouring. Casamigos Añejo, aged for 14 months, provides a winning formula of complex aromas with subtle caramel and vanilla notes, hints of spice and a lingering smooth finish. Finally, Casamigos Mezcal is produced using the artisanal method. Once harvested, piñas are split and laid in earthen pits lined with volcanic or river rock. The tequila is created in Oaxaca by a 4th generation family of Mezcaleros and contains hints of smoke and black pepper, topped with a beautifully silky finish. So, whatever your style, there’s plenty to choose from, and whichever you choose, we’re sure you won’t be disappointed.

Secondly, if you’re looking to indulge in some fine dining, then look no further than Nessa, a new modern bistro located in the heart of Soho. The vibrant eatery offers up a menu of classic seasonal dishes with a contemporary twist, using produce from Britain and across the channel. Drawing inspiration from both Britain and executive chef Tom Cenci’s passion for global flavours, Nessa gives guests a chance to embrace elegant yet playful British cuisine. The bar also comes with its own wine and cocktail list and a selection of snacks and small plates, providing the perfect location for unwinding after-work drinks. HUNGER recommends the mouthwatering Trout Crudo and Banana French Toast – trust us, it’s immaculate. For more information and to make a reservation at Nessa, click here

Next, contemporary art and print store DROOL have revealed their latest collaboration with artist Alexander Khabbazi. The collection is part of an ongoing series of works from the artist combining elements of playful characters alongside punchy typography. Khabbazi looks to express the themes and messages of the piece through texts that invoke a vague, immediately understood feeling rather than a literal displaying a literal message. The series of prints are produced using analogue distortion, textures and printing methods combined with digital processes, creating a selection of pieces that will be a welcome addition to any art-lovers home. The collection is now available to shop at DROOL

For all you jewellery lovers out there, Astrid & Miyu’s latest collection, Treasure, is one you’ll certainly need to be checking out. The collection focuses on the essence of nostalgia, such as highlighting childhood memories of sun-kissed days out on the beach with elegant shell shapes and lustrous gemstone pieces. With impotence on vibrancy, the collection is perfect for the summertime shift in your jewellery rotation. The collection is now available to purchase here.

Ballantines Scotch Whiskey and community station Soho Radio with a five-day takeover at 98 Berwick Street in the heart of Soho. The Ballantine’s True Music x Soho Radio pop-up aims to shine a light on local music scenes and spotlight the role that independent record stores play in shaping music culture. Overall, the partnership will include daily radio shows hosted by Shy One, Jay Carder, and Tamar Collocutor, alongside Ballantine’s True Music alumni, including, Motivando a La Gyal and Karne Kulture. There will also be vinyl sessions where performances from international artists, including Lyzza and Enny, will be cut direct to vinyl and later auctioned to the public. A shop where fans can purchase a hand-selected batch of records, alongside music literature and magazines. Finally, two grants will also be awarded to support projects that allow local community music hubs to open up their space to be more diverse and inclusive. Applications for the grant are open from now until 2nd May and are available here. The Ballantine’s True Music x Soho Radio pop-up will be open between 10am – 8pm daily from the 18th – 22nd April at 98 Berwick St, W1F OQB.

This week’s title of MVP is awarded to singer-songwriter Grace Carter, who today released her latest single, ‘Bloodwar.’ The piano-led ballad was written when Carter was just a teenager at 17 years old when she was struggling with the reality of growing up with an absent parent, which left her with several unanswered questions. Carter’s powerful vocals and incredibly honest lyrics make for an encapsulating listen and one that’s difficult to hold back the tears. Following on from the equally impressive ‘Pick Your Tears Up,’ 2023 is already looking as though it’ll be the most exciting year yet in Carter’s promising career.

HUNGER Writers