The best of winter's new food & drink openings

Bringing a taste of Market Square to the Village, Firecastle serves up handcrafted dishes from its vibrant food truck. Expect bold flavours and honest cooking, with local produce and artisan quality at the heart of every bite. Comforting, simple and full of character – this is Kildare on the move.

WE LOVE: The Village-exclusive loaded spuds come with four delicious topping choices including Prata na Nollaig and Aloo Butter Chicken.

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The second outpost at The Bicester Collection for chef David Tran, Saigon Social Club is the destination for fresh, modern Vietnamese cuisine with authentic soul. The menu celebrates a culinary heritage shaped over four decades, blending vibrant flavours, fragrant herbs and warming spices that capture the essence of Vietnam. Each dish is crafted to honour tradition while embracing contemporary creativity in a dining experience that feels both rooted and refined.

WE LOVE: A steaming bowl of pho layered with fresh aromatic herbs, served alongside delicate steamed dumplings.

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Take a taste of Italy home during your next visit to Maasmechelen Village with La Posta by Casa Paglia. As experts in quality pasta and sauces (they’ve supplied world-renowned chefs, including Marcello Ballardini), you’ll find mouth-watering dining and gifting ideas, as well as the finest Italian liquors and wines for a taste of the Italian dolce vita.

WE LOVE: Beautifully-trimmed tins of biscotti, stacks of flavoured oils and the best Italian wines and spirits – you'll add plenty to your wish list here.

VISIT LA POSTA//CASA PAGLIA

From the creative minds behind El Celler de Can Roca, Rocambolesc brings a world of fantasy to the Village. This dessert atelier is a celebration of imagination, where artisanal ice creams and handcrafted chocolates turn indulgence into art. Just steps away, its Bikineria serves up a Catalan classic – savoury ‘bikinis’ with flavours ranging from traditional ham and cheese to playful twists like pastrami and truffle.

WE LOVE: The Dark Ice popsicles are a cinematic tribute that blends nostalgia with Rocambolesc’s signature creativity.

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Savour the spirit of the season with an array of charming winter warmers at the Christmas markets. From steaming mugs of Glühwein and roasted chestnuts to gingerbread hearts, buttery cookies and spiced apple juice, every sip and bite is a little taste of festive magic.

WE LOVE: A fragrant cup of Glühwein and a crisp gingerbread heart is the perfect pairing for a winter stroll.

Sugar Plum Sweetery is the destination for indulgence with a twist. Think jewel-like candies, glossy chocolates and confections that look as good as they taste. Every piece is beautifully packaged, ready to gift or keep for yourself (we won’t tell). Founded in 2022, it’s all about turning everyday moments into something extraordinary.

WE LOVE: A ribbon-wrapped box of artisan chocolates is guaranteed to impress everyone on your gift list.

VISIT BOUTIQUE

Just in time for cosy season, Oliphant & Pomeroy returns with it’s Great Taste award-winning cinnamon buns and chocolate salted caramel buns at Bicester Village. Available alongside seasonal specialties, including cruffins, filled doughnuts and more, each menu item is freshly baked throughout the day and served warm.

WE LOVE: While famed for their original cinnamon buns, the chocolate salted caramel alternatives are deliciously moreish.

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Tuck into a delicious stay during your next visit with a fresh elixir of menu options from your favourite restaurants. Perfect for indulgent breakfasts, relaxed lunches, celebratory afternoon teas, intimate dinners and everything in between, we’ve got the restaurants to see and be seen in this holiday season.

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