Tag: restaurants

Back by popular demand: ‘Murder on the Midnight Express’ returns to Somewhere by Nico for a limited time only

  • Somewhere by Nico is calling for all detectives as it brings back its sell-out Murder on the Midnight Express cocktail experience, inspired by the classic game of suspense
  • Running for a limited time only, the menu will be available at Somewhere by Nico in Edinburgh at Charlotte Lane from 8th January – to 2nd February 2025
  • 0% alcohol options are also available, providing new ways to enjoy the experience without compromise

Back by popular demand, Murder on the Midnight Express is making its highly anticipated return to Somewhere by Nico for a limited time only. From 8th January — 2nd February, this thrilling cocktail experience invites guests to step into a world of mystery, inspired by the classic game of suspense.

As the train pulls back into Somewhere by Nico, guests will be immersed into the exhilarating journey to solve the mystery of who shot Gustave Laroche. For £45 per person, the five-course cocktail menu takes participants on a flavourful and intriguing ride, with each sip revealing a new clue. For those seeking an extra twist, an optional bonus cocktail provides an additional hint to elevate the detective experience.

Perfect for a new year outing with friends or family, Murder on the Midnight Express is an experience like no other – combining captivating storytelling, exceptional cocktails, and an immersive mystery to solve. With 0% alcohol options available, there’s something for everyone at Somewhere by Nico – without compromising on taste.

This limited-time menu will be available at both Somewhere by Nico Edinburgh (39a Charlotte Lane) and Somewhere by Nico Glasgow (358 Byres Road).

Limited-Time Offer

Guests are encouraged to book early to secure their seat in January with a limited-time offer at just £30pp (saving £15pp).

Early bird bookings for can be made here

Whether for a friend, loved one, or a treat for yourself, Murder on the Midnight Express is the perfect gift that provides an unforgettable experience to share.

Nico Simeone, CEO and Founder of Six by Nico, commented: ““We’re thrilled to bring back Murder on the Midnight Express to Somewhere by Nico for a limited time. This unique cocktail journey blends mystery, adventure, and creative storytelling to offer our guests an experience that goes beyond just drinks.

“We can’t wait to welcome guests as they put their detective skills to the test and solve the mystery of Gustave Laroche’s murder.

“With a carefully crafted five-course cocktail journey, plus 0% alcohol options, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy.”

For more information about Somewhere by Nico and to secure your booking, please visit here

Edinburgh restaurant group acquires popular Italian restaurant

Gordon’s Trattoria, a cherished Italian gem situated on Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, has been acquired by Merchant Leisure.

Gordon Scott, who opened the restaurant in 1982, recently announced his retirement and has sold the venue for an undisclosed fee to his close friend Jim Tullis, owner of Merchant Leisure. 

Merchant Leisure have announced they wish to keep the restaurant as it is for the time being, and continue ‘serving up authentic Italian cuisine made with passion and the finest ingredients.’ Locals and tourists alike have long enjoyed the restaurant’s authentic cuisine and prominent location, offering customers ‘the heart of Italy in the heart of Edinburgh’. 

Classic Italian dishes populate the menu including ‘Tagliatelle Reale’ – plump King Prawns paired with delicate asparagus and cherry tomatoes, simmered in olive oil, garlic, white wine and parsley. A range of pizzas such as the ‘Primavera’ – topped with parma ham and a balsamic glaze drizzle – are joined by much-loved sharing options like ‘Focaccia’ and a selection of chicken-based dishes such as ‘Pollo Dianne’ – cooked in mushrooms, onions, French mustard and a brandy cream sauce.

Merchant Leisure owns bars & restaurants across the city including The Newsroom, The Piper’s Rest, Burgers & Beers Grillhouse and The Railbridge. Their speakeasy venue Jackson the Tailor, located at the top of Leith Street and inspired by the speakeasy culture of the early 20th century, was recently shortlisted for a prestigious design award by the British Institute of Interior Design. 

Commenting on the takeover, Arthur Mustard, Managing Director at Merchant Leisure Ltd, said: “We are very excited to announce our ownership of Gordon’s Trattoria.

“It’s such an honour to take over an Edinburgh establishment with such rich history and loyal customers. Our plan is to keep the venue as it is for now, serving authentic Italian food in the heart of Edinburgh.

“We look forward to welcoming new customers, as well as meeting the locals who make this restaurant so special.” 

Gordon’s Trattoria is the sixth venue to be listed under the Merchant Leisure umbrella and will continue serving authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile. 

Re-igniting magical memories with nostalgia at Six by Nico

  • Running for six weeks, this latest menu provides nostalgic feelings to transport you back to a simpler time. 
  • The menu will run in both of the capital’s Six by Nico locations including Queensferry Street and Hanover Street from 16 December 2024 to 26 January 2025 – with bookings starting at £44 per person

Six by Nico, the dynamic dining experience in Edinburgh known for its six-week tasting menu rotation, has unveiled its latest six-course concept, transporting guests back to the good old days with déjà vu food that serves a taste of forgotten flavours with every bite.

Taking inspiration from CEO and Founder Nico Simeone’s childhood favourites and his families festive traditions, the latest concept menu is full of creative twists on old school classic flavours that will never fade.

The latest menu will run at Six by Nico’s city centre locations including Queensferry Street and Hanover Street, for six weeks from 16th December 2024 to 26th January 2025, using timeless tastes to help guests forget about being an adult for a while.

The menu includes the following dishes:

Snacks – Space Raiders

Crushed Baby Potato, Pickled Onion, Garlic Emulsion & Fermented Melon Hot Sauce

Course 1 – Blockbuster

Aged Comte, Hazelnut & Serrano Ham “Taco” 

Course 2 – Super Mario

Roasted Maitake, Smoked Celeriac, Cep Gnocchi, Lovage, Truffle & Sherry Cappuccino

Course 3 – “Let’s go camping!” 

Smoked Pork Sausage, Aged Belly, Red Pepper Romesco, Nasturtium & Almond 

Course 4 – Fish Fingers 

Barbecue Coley, Miso Carrot & Lobster Emulsion served with Crispy Fish Finger, Shellfish Bisque & Salted Kumquat

Course 5 – Guess Who? 

A classic game inspires our dish, but can you Guess Who?

Course 6 – “SNOWBALL FIIIGHT!!”

Coconut Parfait, Lime Gel, 55% Chocolate, Yoghurt “Snow”

Vegetarian

Snacks – Space Raiders

Crushed Baby Potato, Pickled Onion, Garlic Emulsion & Fermented Melon Hot Sauce

Course 1 – Blockbuster

Aged Comte, Hazelnut & Quince “Taco”

Course 2 – Super Mario

Roasted Maitake, Smoked Celeriac, Cep Gnocchi, Lovage, Truffle & Sherry Cappuccino

Course 3 – “Let’s go camping!”

Smoked Potato, Red Pepper Romesco, Nasturtium &  Almond

Course 4 – Fish Fingers

Barbecue Hispi Cabbage, Miso Carrot & Vadouvan served with Smoked Onion Foam & Carrot Cromesquis

Course 5 – Guess Who?

A classic game inspires our dish, but can you Guess Who?

Course 6 – “SNOWBALL FIIIGHT!!”

Coconut Parfait, Lime Gel, 55% Chocolate, Yoghurt “Snow”

For £44, guests will be able to experience the old school flavours of Nostalgia, with a matching wine pairing from £30 per person or cocktail pairing from £40 per person. Start the experience with the snack selection for only £10 per person.   

Nico Simeone, CEO and Founder of the Six Company, commented: “Our final menu of 2024 and the first of 2025 pays homage to nostalgia, inviting guests on a journey through flavours that evoke personal memories.

“Inspired by reflections on my childhood, it draws on moments from an era spent watching films, playing games, or enjoying time outdoors with friends.

“While New Year often focuses on resolutions, this menu celebrates traditions and revisits the timeless magic of Christmas through familiar and comforting tastes.”

Rose Street Brewery is back open and better than ever!

The Rose Street Brewery, just a short stroll from Edinburgh Castle, officially reopened this Autumn following an extensive 3-week refurbishment, giving the iconic pub an exciting new look. 

The pub has been given a facelift while keeping its traditional look and feel inside. Changes include additional seating for guests including the installation of new booths for those that want a cozy and relaxed feel, an additional TV with high seating options for guests that want to watch the upcoming Autumn Tests at Murrayfield Stadium and some much needed awnings and heaters outside to keep guests dry and warm on those Dreich Scottish days. 

Rose Street Brewery is renowned for brewing the famous beer, Auld Reekie, in the old Brewhouse upstairs (now the kitchen) from 1983-1994, with Rose Street itself being referred to as a drinking Oasis ever since.

The Rose Street Brewery is proud to be a part of these historical roots and continues to uphold this reputation today, welcoming guests from near and far to come and enjoy a drink in this historical landmark 

Guests can tuck into all the pub classics, a chicken and ham pie, classic fish and chips and prime steak burgers, as well as a delectable range of Sunday roasts to delight discerning guests. 

Along with the new food menu, guests will also be greeted with an extensive drinks’ menu, boasting a wide selection of craft beers, ciders and new to the menu – cocktails. 

Speaking about the refurbishment, General Manager Derek Meechan at Rose Street Brewery said: “Rose Street Brewery is an historic part of Rose Street, and it is fantastic that we are having a major refresh of the premises before a very busy time of the year.

“The works that are being completed will make it more efficient and also more appealing to our guests than it is now, which is a major achievement. Myself and my team can’t wait to open, and welcome back our guests into the new and improved Rose Street Brewery.” 

Following the extensive refurbishment and significant investment made at the pub, a number of new jobs have been created for the local area, with the team now ready to pour pints and serve delicious food to guests. 

For more information about Rose Street Brewery please visit Nicholson’s Pub in Edinburgh | Rose Street Brewery (nicholsonspubs.co.uk)

Explore the Magical Land of Oz at Six By Nico

Six by Nico, the dynamic dining experience in Edinburgh known for its six-week tasting menu rotation, has introduced its latest six-course instalment, taking customers on an adventure full of magical flavours where each bite sends your taste buds into technicolour.   

Inspired by the iconic story from The Wizard of Oz, customers will begin their journey on the yellow brick road, travelling through a bewitching menu where each bite leads you closer to the Emerald City.

The latest menu will run at Six by Nico’s city centre locations including Queensferry Street and Hanover Street, for six weeks from 4th November to 15th December where customers will be immersed in this magical culinary experience and transported to the Land of Oz.

The menu includes the following dishes:

Course 1 – ‘Nugget of the Yellow Brick’  

Sweetcorn Beignet, Yellow Courgette, Saffron & Güero Chilli  

Course 2 – ‘Scarecrow’ 

Hay Smoked Middle White Pork, Fennel, Apple & Pickled Mustard  

Course 3 – ‘Tin Woodman & Cowardly Lion’ 

Goats Curd ‘Heart”, Sweet & Sour Umeboshi Plum, Liquid Courage  

Course 4 – ‘Deadly Poppy Field’  

Blackened Miso Coal Fish, Coal Emulsion, Red Pepper Ketchup & Kohlrabi & Tarragon  

Course 5 – ‘The Wicked Witch’

Chicken Breast, Pressed Leg & Black Onion 

Sweet Roasted Garlic & Parsley Risotto

Course 6 – ‘Emerald City’ 

Apple Cremeux, Honey Mousseline, Yoghurt Sorbet & Lemon Gel  

Veggie

Course 1 – ‘Nugget of the Yellow Brick’  

Sweetcorn Beignet, Yellow Courgette, Saffron & Güero Chilli  

Course 2 – ‘Scarecrow’ 

Hay Smoked Celeriac, Fennel, Apple & Pickled Mustard  

Course 3 – ‘Tin Woodman & Cowardly Lion’ 

Goats Curd ‘Heart’, Sweet & Sour Umeboshi Plum, Liquid Courage  

Course 4 – ‘Deadly Poppy Field’  

Baby Aubergine, Coal Emulsion, Red Pepper Ketchup, Kohlrabi & Tarragon  

Course 5 – ‘The Wicked Witch’

Barbecue Leek, Burnt Onion & Black Garlic Ketchup 

Parsley Risotto, Confit Garlic & Pickled Shallot  

Course 6 – ‘Emerald City’  

Apple Cremeux, Honey Mousseline, Yoghurt Sorbet & Lemon Gel 

For £44, guests will be able to experience the magical flavours from the Land of Oz, with a matching wine pairing from £33.

Nico Simeone, CEO and Founder of the Six Company, commented: “The Land of Oz menu is an exciting journey for us. We’ve been exploring this magical world for a while, and guided by guest feedback and our passion for storytelling, we’ve crafted each dish to immerse diners in Oz’s enchanting tale.

“We’re thrilled to offer diners in Edinburgh with a unique experience that pushes the boundaries of what Six by Nico can bring to the table.”

Land of Oz menu bookings can be made via the website: 

https://www.sixbynico.co.uk/edinburgh/land-of-oz/

New late-night disco series at ​​​​​​​Lady Libertine including alternative Halloween and November dates

This autumn, experience the after-dark magic where disco meets modern-day elegance at Lady Libertine, as the subterranean venue launches its brand-new GREY GOOSE® Lates.

Taking over the stylish Edinburgh basement, this exclusive series of two intimate late-night parties promises electrifying performances, signature cocktails, and vibrant disco ambiance.

Kicking off the series just in time for All Hallows’ Eve on Thursday, 31st October from 7 PM until late, the alternative Halloween event will feature a live DJ set from the wildly unpredictable Billy Woods, known for his eclectic and bold beats that are sure to captivate the crowd.

Also supporting the evening is Craig Smith, adding his unique flair to what promises to be a chic, no-tricks Halloween filled with stacked disco tunes.

On Thursday, 21st November, the final GREY GOOSE® Lates event will showcase the smooth sounds of CC:Disco!, renowned for her feel-good sets and the self-proclaimed intergalactic vampire Kitty Kat, delivering an energising disco experience while indulging in Lady Libertine’s signature GREY GOOSE® cocktails. 

For music lovers and cocktail connoisseurs alike, GREY GOOSE® Lates at Lady Libertine offers the ultimate evening escape this autumn.

Guests to either event can enjoy a curated selection of cocktails and classic martini serves from Lady Libertine’s bar including: Starry Night – a refreshing signature sip with GREY GOOSE®, Briottet Banana, Aperol, Absinthe, and Raspberry, or Garden of Eden – a long spritz with GREY GOOSE®, Italicus, Limoncello, Absinthe and Cremant.

A must try is the Strawberry Fields Forever mixed with GREY GOOSE®, Verjus, Strawberry & Basil Shrub, Basil Leaves, Soda, and Cremant for a fresh, fizzy finish. This exclusive cocktail menu runs until the end of November. 

To buy a ticket to experience GREY GOOSE® Lates at Lady Libertine— head to https://ladylibertine.co.uk/whats-on/ Admission to each event is £10 and includes live DJ set entertainment and one cocktail.

Both events run from 7PM until 1AM at Lady Libertine on October 31st and November 21st.  

All aboard as Somewhere by Nico presents: ‘Murder on the Midnight Express’

  • Now open for bookings until 24th November, guests are invited to indulge in the new and thrilling cocktail experience inspired by the classic game of suspense.
  • Somewhere by Nico will now also welcome walk-ins and bar reservations, allowing guests to explore new cocktails and drinks.

Somewhere by Nico welcomes guests to step into the thrilling world of ‘Murder on the Midnight Express,’ the brand’s latest theme offering a truly unique and unforgettable cocktail experience inspired by the classic game of suspense.

Now open for bookings until 24th November, this gripping new theme invites guests in Edinburgh and Glasgow to test their detective skills and unravel the mystery aboard the Midnight Express.

The adventure kicks off with the shocking murder of Gustave Laroche, the esteemed chef of the train’s restaurant. Gustave, who had been enjoying a drink before his service, was tragically shot in his own kitchen. The culprit was careless, leaving behind a trail of clues for guests to discover and piece together in their quest to solve the crime.

Guests can expect each cocktail course to be served with Somewhere by Nico’s creativity and theatrical flair alongside an intriguing clue to help them solve the case. A diverse and intriguing cast of characters – each with ties to Gustave – and their own potential motives will be introduced to guests throughout the experience, with every cocktail taking them a step closer to unravelling the murder mystery. 

For £45 per person, guests can enjoy a captivating storytelling evening featuring five cocktail courses. An optional bonus cocktail is available alongside an extra clue, enhancing the mystery-solving experience.

This immersive menu has been created with Scottish game designer, Rosalyn Meney, curating a bespoke murderous tale solved through cocktails. It is designed to get mind’s racing and truly delight the senses, offering a unique and memorable night out.

Rooted in the same ethos that made Six by Nico a beloved culinary destination, Somewhere by Nico has been created from a passion for crafting unforgettable experiences with a commitment to creativity & a goal to deliver an unmatched, unique experience every six weeks.

Much like the foundation, Somewhere by Nico will continue to surprise and delight guests with new themes every six weeks, featuring an inventive cocktail menu that invites guests to step into an immersive experience.

Whether you’re in the mood for a cocktail tasting journey or turning a night out into an adventure, Somewhere offers something for everyone.

After the success of capturing the imagination of guests with its otherworldly cocktail experiences, Somewhere by Nico is now also welcoming walk-ins and bar reservations to explore their new cocktails and drinks, offering the discovery of the venue for all.

Bookings for Edinburgh are now available here.

Bookings for Glasgow are now available here.

Nico Simeone, CEO and Founder of Six Company said: “As we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, we’re thrilled to introduce our latest cocktail experience at Somewhere by Nico featuring the captivating theme, ‘Murder on the Midnight Express’. We understand that today’s guests crave more than just a drink – they want an adventure & experience.

“We are dedicated to curating and delivering the best cocktail bar experience and as part of our offering, we’ll now also be welcoming walk-ins and bar reservations, allowing guests to discover the venue in new ways.

“I couldn’t think of a better way to bring this vision to life than with our next theme – ‘Murder on the Midnight Express’.”

Flight Club launches new food and drinks menu 

And they’re celebrating with a free drink for all who come to try it between 14th – 18th October!

Flight Club, the lively and fairground-inspired bar known for its craft cocktails, sharing plates, and Social Darts combo, is launching a reimagined menu: delectable new dishes, upgrades to the favourites and a fresh selection of gorgeous drinks. 

Launching on 14th October, the revamped food menu is geared towards dishes that can be enjoyed by groups of friends (and can be eaten with a dart in hand!). The drinks list has had a makeover too, featuring some stunning newcomers and an expansion of its low-and-no-alcohol offering, culminating in an impressive selection of delicious booze-free options to choose from. 

To celebrate the arrival of this exciting new menu, from 14th – 18th October 2024, Flight Club is offering a free drink from its new Signature Spritz menu (or beer if a spritz isn’t your thing) for those who come in to eat (T&C’s apply)*.  

All-new dishes 

Lovingly designed by Arnaud Kaziewicz, Flight Club’s Head of Food Development and Masterchef: The Professionals finalist, the new menu consists of tapas-style small plates, pizza paddles, and a crowd-pleasing selection of grills and salads.  

Mix-and-share dishes include South Korean pork belly bites with chilli and honey glaze, Yakitori beef skewers made from prime British beef marinated in soy and ginger, and Middle Eastern sliders with plant-based lamb, smoked Applewood cheese, gherkins, and slaw.

New sourdough pizza flavour combinations include the gorgeous Gorgonzola portobello: tomato sauce, mozzarella and grilled portobello mushrooms, finished with white truffle oil and Italian pork and fennel sausage: plant-based sausage, caramelised onions and salsa verde. 

Other newcomers include a poké bowl with coconut lemon rice, crunchy slaw, cauliflower, lettuce, and red pepper sauce and a chicken tikka wrap with coconut raita, tomato, lettuce, and cucumber. 

Freshly crafted beverages 

The redesigned drinks line-up includes four new cocktails, a new selection of signature spritzes, and a significant increase in low- and no-alcohol options.  

New cocktails include ‘Highland Blush’, a combination of raspberry gin, whisky, raspberry, lemon, almond, and vegan foaming bitters and ‘Take a Trip’ – Hendrick’s gin, St. Germain elderflower liqueur and lime, topped with Trip Cucumber & Mint. Another new entry on the cocktail list is ‘Nunya Beeswax’.

This tequila number was created at Flight Club Bristol as a one-off for Bristol Cocktail Weekend 2023. The drink was such a hit it was named Cocktail of the Year. Naturally, it had to feature in the new line-up. 

Arnaud Kaziewicz, Flight Club’s Head of Food Development said, “This menu refresh has been months in the making, involving countless taste tests and iterations to get every dish and cocktail completely right.

“We’re hugely passionate about delivering a truly memorable experience at Flight Club and our food and drinks is a big part of that. We always want to give our customers something new to sink their teeth into and we’re excited to finally share this with them.” 

Nigerian Eatery Celebrates Five-Year Anniversary with Weekend Festivities

Bongou Cafe, Edinburgh’s cherished Nigerian eatery, will commemorate its fifth anniversary this weekend with a celebration and a series of exciting culinary developments.

The event, set for Saturday, 7th and Sunday, 8th September, will be a vibrant tribute to the authentic flavours and warm hospitality that have made Bongou a standout destination in the heart of Edinburgh’s historic city centre.

All proceeds from sales will be donated to local charity Soul Food, which provide hot, delicious and freshly prepared meals while also offering respite and support to anyone dealing with the challenges of homelessness, poverty or loneliness in Edinburgh.

Originally starting as a barbecue catering business in Nigeria in 2014, Bongou was brought to Edinburgh by founder Tosin Moemeke in 2018. Tosin aimed to infuse Edinburgh’s food scene with the vibrant flavours of Lagos, Nigeria. This vision laid the foundation for the cafe, which has since become a community favourite known for its bold, Lagos-inspired street food.

Since opening its doors in 2019, Bongou Cafe has become synonymous with “Lagos in a Flatbread Sandwich,” offering unique flatbread sandwiches with house-made bread, fillings, and sauces made from “Tatashe” (red bell peppers) and “Rodo” (scotch bonnet chillies). Bongou’s mission has always been to introduce the rich, diverse flavours of Lagos to the local community, a vision they continue to pursue five years on.

Tosin, Bongou Cafe’s founder, says, “It’s been an incredible five years. We started with a simple idea to bring the bold, exciting flavours of Lagos to Edinburgh, and the reception has been overwhelming.

“Our customers have become like family. As much as we cherish our journey so far, we’re eagerly looking forward to the future and the many culinary adventures ahead. That’s why we’re kicking off our sixth year with an unforgettable party.”

The anniversary weekend will debut a new pastry and dessert counter, featuring favourites like the spicy beef pie and pineapple crumble cake. Bongou continues to offer a warm, friendly, and homely setting while serving consistently delicious food to delight its patrons.

Starting in September, Bongou Cafe will collaborate with local chefs to blend Nigerian cuisine with other African culinary traditions. Details of these collaborations, which will unfold throughout the year, will be announced soon.

The weekend festivities will also mark Bongou Cafe’s new opening hours, now extending to both Saturdays and Sundays.

This change responds to popular demand, allowing more food enthusiasts to experience its unique dishes and fall in love with Nigerian food and hospitality.

For more information, visit: https://bongoufood.co.uk

Hard Rock Cafe kicks off John Lennon legacy treasure hunt

Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh’s own artefact, a questionnaire complete by John Lennon in 1973, forms a part of an exciting new global treasure hunt, launched in honour of the release of John Lennon’s ‘Mind Games – The Ultimate Collection’.

Hard Rock International is proud to kick off the John Lennon Memorabilia Treasure Hunt alongside the John Lennon Estate and UMe, the global catalog division of Universal Music Group, for fans around the world.

This questionnaire displayed within the Edinburgh venue, filled out in pen by Lennon himself, features 23 categories that offer a candid glimpse into his personal thoughts and feelings at the time.

Signed and dated by Lennon, many of his answers vividly express his deep affection for Yoko Ono, highlighting the profound bond they shared. Each response provides insight into Lennon’s personality, preferences, and priorities during a pivotal period in his life and career.

The document serves as a testament to Lennon’s openness and his willingness to share his innermost sentiments, particularly his love and admiration for Yoko Ono.

The questionnaire is not only a piece of personal memorabilia but also a valuable historical artefact, reflecting the intimate and emotional aspects of one of the most influential figures in music history.

Hard Rock owns the world’s largest and most valuable collection of authentic music memorabilia with more than 88,000 pieces displayed at its locations around the globe. Memorabilia highlights to discover through the John Lennon Memorabilia Treasure Hunt include clothing, instruments, sketches, lyrics and more at various Hard Rock locations.

The treasure hunt launch aligns with John & Yoko’s new social website citizenofnutopia.com, a map of the world where fans can sign up, leave peaceful messages, enjoy “Meditation Affirmations” and express their gratitude and admiration for John & Yoko and their core principles of Peace, Love and Truth.

Nutopia is an imaginary country created by John Lennon & Yoko Ono in 1973, promoting the ideas of Peace and Love made famous by John’s songs ‘Imagine’ and ‘Mind Games’.

Citizens of Nutopia can earn points and rewards in the Unity by Hard Rock global loyalty program when they visit participating Hard Rock Cafes, Casinos and Hotels to discover precious John Lennon memorabilia tagged with QR codes that when scanned, provide more stories about the artefacts and points on the website.

Items include:

  • Hard Rock Cafe Manchester: Oriental teapot and matching goblets from John Lennon’s Kenwood home
  • Hard Rock Cafe London Piccadilly: John Lennon’s Gold Tone Algha Spectacles (Mid-1960s)
  • Hard Rock Cafe London Old Park Lane (Vault, Requires Special Tour): Baldwin Harpsichord (1967)
  • Hard Rock Cafe Brussels: “You Are Here” Pen and Ink on Paper (1971)
  • Hard Rock Cafe Bucharest: Black Suit Worn by John Lennon During The Beatles’ US Tour (1965)
  • Hard Rock Cafe Florence: Black Leather Jacket Worn by John Lennon in “How I Won the War” (1967)
  • Hard Rock Cafe Key West: John Lennon’s Blue Denim Work Shirt Worn While Recording “Whatever Gets You Through The Night” (1974)
  • Hard Rock Cafe New York: Handwritten “Help!” Lyrics (1965)
  • Hard Rock Cafe Orlando: Original John Lennon “PEACE AND LOVE” and Portrait Sketch (1969)

Additionally, Hard Rock is offering incredible discounts and offers for John Lennon fans when they participate:

  • Citizens of Nutopia will receive 20% off food and non-alcoholic beverages at participating locations.
  • Citizens of Nutopia will receive 20% off Rock Shop® merchandise at participating locations.

The John Lennon Memorabilia Treasure Hunt serves to celebrate the release of ‘Mind Games – The Ultimate Collection’ sets.

The definitive Ultimate Collection puts listeners in the centre of the studio and explores the album’s 1973 recording sessions at the Record Plant in New York City, from inception to the final master, through scores of unreleased outtakes, unadulterated versions, instrumentals, stripped down mixes, studio chatter and more, revealing how fan-favorite songs evolved and came to life.

Sean Ono Lennon says: “We’ve been working on the box sets of Mind Games for years now. Initially I thought, ‘Mind Games’.. game… What if we ‘gamified’ Mind Games? So that’s all I’ll say for now, but there are many levels to this release, including the box sets and far beyond – that will slowly unravel – and I hope will potentially entertain and engage everyone for many years to come.

“I hope you enjoy these Mind Games with Hard Rock and as my Mom says in the intro to the book, let’s see how we can make a positive future with it – to play a positive mind game with one another.

Giovanni Taliaferro, Vice President of Memorabilia and Design at Hard Rock International, said: “Preserving music history is what enriches the Hard Rock travel, dining and gaming experience.

“We are honored to display priceless pieces from John Lennon’s musical and inspirational legacy. We have the utmost gratitude to the John Lennon Estate and Universal Music Group for inviting us to participate in this amazing venture.

“We hope that by learning from Hard Rock’s memorabilia collection, John’s biggest fans can imagine how his artistry and ideals still endure today.”

Visit unity.hardrock.com/johnlennon/terms-and-conditions for more info on the discounts, offers, participating locations and promotions.

Book your table at Hard Rock Cafe Edinburgh today at:

 https://cafe.hardrock.com/edinburgh/