HANBAO release 15 NEW cocktails just in time for New Years!
Get ready to raise your glasses as HANBAO unveils its sensational new menu just in time for the New Year! With 15 exciting drink options, including 11 expertly crafted cocktails and 4 refreshing mocktails, there’s something to delight every palate. What better way to kick off the year than by gathering your friends and family for a memorable night out? Book your table now and toast to new beginnings with HANBAO’s irresistible creations!
NEW COCKTAILS
MATCHA DO ABOUT NOTHING
Eristoff, King’s Ginger, Mirin, Lemon, Watermelon, Matcha Foam
PEACH BLOSSOM SPRING
Beefeater, Giffard Pêche de Vigne, Ming River Baijiu, Pineapple, Lemon, Agave Syrup, Peychaud’s Bitters, Rose Petals
CHIFF KEEF
Koko Kanu, Mozart White Chocolate, Pandan, Lemon, Egg White, Matcha Foam
ROCKET FUEL
El Jimador Blanco, Velvet Falernum, Breakfast Tea Cold Brew, Lime, Soda, Grenadine
DR. ZAIUS
Jim Beam, Campari, Antica Formula, Banana, Banana Chips
POPPIN’ XANTE
Martell, Xante Pear, Velvet Falernum, Curaçao Bleu, Lemon, Popcorn
8 CHAMO-MILE
Chamomile Honey Infused Bourbon, Licor 43, Pineapple, Lemon, Agave Syrup, Angostura Bitters, M&M’s
SAIGON SILK
Stoli Vanilla, Advocaat, Kahlua, Cold Brew, Condensed Milk, Chocolate Dusting
PURPLE HAZE
Bayou White Rum, Giffard Violette, Pineapple, Cranberry, Lemon, Curaçao Bleu, Almond, Egg White
CLOUD NINE
Martell, Giffard Apricot, Lemon, Mango, White Chocolate, Egg White, Marshmallow
SOUR DIESEL
Bayou White Rum, Disaronno, Curaçao Bleu, Apple, Lime, Passion Fruit, Elderflower
MOCKTAILS
NO G SODA
Grape Soda, Elderflower, Apple, Cranberry, Lime
NOT SO PURPLE HAZE
Violette, Kiwi, Almond, Pineapple, Cranberry, Lime
THREE 6 MELON MAFIA
Pineapple Soda, Blueberry, Watermelon, Cranberry, Lime, Cucumber
RED RUNNER
Pandan, Almond, Pineapple, Lime, Soda, Cherry Kool-Aid
Book your table by pressing here.
Worcester’s Under The Tree Campaign Brings Holiday Joy
The first-ever "Under The Tree" campaign has been hailed a success, with the Worcester community rallying together to spread holiday cheer to those in need this Christmas.
A joint initiative by Worcester BID and Worcester Cathedral, the campaign gathered an impressive 18 huge bags and boxes full of gifts, ensuring local children and rough sleepers had a brighter festive season.
Generous residents donated a wide range of gifts, from Lego sets and teddy bears to scooters. The initiative provided crucial support for local children who might not have otherwise received a present this year.
The campaign worked closely with city businesses to set up donation points across Worcester, making it easy for the public to contribute. Gifts were dropped off at The Studio, Barclays Bank, and Worcester Cathedral, earning participants the title of “holiday heroes.” These gifts were distributed by the local charity, Kinship, ensuring that the right gifts reached the right recipients to bring smiles to faces this Christmas.
In addition to gifts for children, the campaign extended its reach to rough sleepers, collecting essential items to help this vulnerable group during the cold winter months. Donations for rough sleepers were received at Maggs and The Cardinals Hat, with Maggs distributing the items to meet pressing needs in the community.
A spokesperson for Worcester BID expressed gratitude for the campaign's remarkable first year:
"We are thrilled by the community’s response to the ‘Under The Tree’ campaign. Seeing so many people come together to make Christmas special for others has been truly heartwarming. This is just the beginning, and we look forward to building on this success in the years to come."
The support highlights the generosity of Worcester’s residents and their commitment to making a difference during the festive season.
With the campaign’s inaugural year off to such a flying start, organisers hope it will become a cherished tradition in the city, spreading joy to even more people in the years to come.
A Year of Safe Space: Celebrating our First Anniversary in the City
Worcester Safe Space was launched on 15 December 2023 by Worcester Business Improvement District (BID), with support from West Mercia Police, West Mercia’s Police & Crime Commissioner John Campion, The University of Worcester, Worcester Street Pastors, and other key organisations.
As we reach the first anniversary of Safe Space, let’s reflect on the incredible impact this initiative has had in Worcester City Centre. Through dedicated provisions and operational support, Safe Space has become a vital resource for the community.
This year, the hardworking Safe Space team of medical professionals has:
- Assisted with 2,629** medical, welfare, enquiries, and other incidents.
- Saved the NHS a minimum of £70,623.00** in ambulance conveyance alone, reducing the impact of city operations.
- Eliminated the need for 137 ambulances**, reducing pressure on NHS services.
**Data collected and displayed covers the past 11.5 months - December 15 2023-Nov 30 2024**
In November alone, the team addressed 472 incidents, providing vital care and support to visitors, students, residents, and rough sleepers. Whether helping individuals in need, answering queries, or ensuring people get home safely, the service continues to prove its value to Worcester’s community.
Expanding Provision for Worcester
In addition to its evening operations, Safe Space introduced daytime support, offering services five days a week. This expansion demonstrates the growing demand for the service and its ability to adapt to the needs of the city.
Supporting Events and Partnerships
Safe Space is also deployed during major city events. For example, the team will be out on New Year’s Eve to support local businesses during their busiest period, ensuring Worcester remains a welcoming and safe destination for all.
Born from Purple Flag Success
Safe Space originated as part of Worcester’s successful Purple Flag accreditation, which recognises excellence in the management of evening and night-time economies. Now in its third year of accreditation, the Purple Flag initiative—led by Worcester BID—continues to bring city partners together to strengthen Worcester’s reputation and support its growth.
Looking Ahead
As awareness of Safe Space grows, so does its use. With its ongoing development, the service will continue to play a vital role in supporting Worcester’s residents and visitors. Looking to the future, we aim to:
- Expand our provision.
- Support more city-wide initiatives.
- Continue helping individuals in need, ensuring Worcester remains a safe, thriving city.
- Continue supporting The University of Worcester Paramedic Students with placements to assist with providing real world hours and experience onboard Safe Space.
Whether you’re a student, a visitor, a resident, or someone experiencing rough sleeping, Safe Space is here to support you.
We look forward to continuing our services for the community as we enter our second year of operation in 2025.
5 Festive Events to Enjoy This December in Worcester
The festive season is in full swing, and Worcester is brimming with events to help you get into the holiday spirit. Here are five not-to-miss activities happening this December:
Festive Tudor Crafts at Greyfriars House and Garden – Today!
Step back in time and experience Christmas the Tudor way at Greyfriars House and Garden. Today, join the Lypett Household of Tudor reenactors as they bring history to life with traditional festive crafts. This is a perfect opportunity to learn and participate in how Christmas was celebrated centuries ago. Don’t miss it—doors open at 10:30am, and activities run throughout the day.- Become a Christmas Elf at Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum
Channel your inner elf and create your very own Christmas gift at this family-friendly workshop on December 15. Whether for a loved one or to add a personal touch to your holiday traditions, this event is a great way to make memories while crafting something special. Find details at https://bit.ly/giftingartworkshop. - Laugh Your Socks Off at the Christmas Comedy Club
Huntingdon Hall is bringing the laughs this December with their Christmas Comedy Club. Featuring top-notch comedians Jon Wagstaffe, Louise Leigh, Stella Graham, and Mike Cox, this event is sure to bring the house down. Get your tickets now and enjoy a night of festive hilarity. Learn more at www.worcestertheatres.co.uk. - Jazz Up Your December with Calypso Moon
Head to St Swithins Church for a mesmerising jazz concert with the all-female band Calypso Moon. Known for their fresh and playful renditions, they’re making waves in the UK jazz scene. A perfect night out for music lovers. For tickets and information, visit www.worcesterstswithuns.org. - Take the Worcester BID Christmas Window Trail
Explore the city and enjoy the 70 beautifully decorated shop windows as part of Worcester BID's free Christmas Window Trail. Pick up a map at the Worcester Tourist Information Centre or download it online at www.worcesterbid.com. It’s a great way to get some fresh air and discover festive creativity across town.
Get your calendars ready and make this December one to remember in Worcester!
Support Local: The Magic of Shopping Small This Holiday Season
Join the celebration of small business Saturday!
As the festive season lights up Worcester’s streets, there’s no better time to celebrate the soul of our city—its small businesses. With Small Business Saturday just around the corner, Worcester BID is encouraging everyone to make a conscious effort to shop local and support the amazing entrepreneurs who make our city unique.
Shopping locally isn’t just about ticking items off your holiday gift list; it’s about giving back to your community. For every pound spent at an independent retailer, a significant portion stays within the local economy, helping to create jobs and sustain vibrant high streets. Your purchase at an independent shop directly supports the livelihoods of Worcester’s talented small business owners, helping them grow and stay on our High Street for us to enjoy.
Did you know that research on spending by local authorities shows that when we shop locally, for every £1 spent with a small business, around 63p remains in the local economy(!), helping to keep our city moving?
This year, Worcester is brimming with opportunities to find truly special gifts. From jewellery and bespoke homeware to delicious treats made with local i
ngredients, our city’s independent shops and markets offer a treasure trove of unique finds. By shopping small on Small Business Saturday, you’re not just finding items to gift something one-of-a-kind—you’re supporting your community.
Small Business Saturday, taking place tomorrow, is the perfect time to show your support. Whether you’re visiting one of Worcester’s cosy cafes, picking up a special decoration, or treating a loved one to a gift voucher from a local business, every purchase makes a difference.
Worcester BID encourages you to share your shopping experiences using the hashtag #SmallBizSatUK. Let’s spread the word and inspire others to do the same!
Help us this Small Business Saturday to support Worcester’s independent businesses!
Discover lots of local businesses on our Instagram @worcesterbid.
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How can I get my business involved?
This Saturday, 7 December, Small Business Saturday is your chance to shine! It’s a nationwide celebration of the amazing small businesses that are the backbone of our local economy—just like yours.
By participating, you can:
- Attract more customers who are looking to shop locally.
- Showcase your unique products or services as part of a vibrant, city-wide campaign.
- Strengthen the local community, as every pound spent locally keeps 63p circulating in Worcester’s economy.
How to get involved:
- Promote your business – Let your customers know about your offers or special events this Saturday.
- Use the hashtag #SmallBizSatUK – Join the conversation online and share what makes your business unique.
- Collaborate with other businesses – Create joint promotions or experiences to draw in more visitors.
- Feature your business on our Instagram @worcesterbid – Tag us, and we’ll help share your story!
Need ideas or support? Visit Small Business Saturday UK for inspiration and resources or press below to download a marketing pack.
DOWNLOAD MY MARKETING PACK
Maneki Ramen Launches Crowdfunder to Bring Award-Winning Japanese Cuisine to Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter
Maneki Ramen, the beloved Japanese and ramen restaurant from the acclaimed team behind Burger Shop and The Bookshop Hereford, is on the verge of an exciting new chapter. They’ve launched a Crowdfunder campaign to open their second site in Birmingham’s iconic Jewellery Quarter, bringing their award-winning dishes to a larger audience and creating a new neighbourhood hotspot for Japanese cuisine lovers.
The campaign, which launched last week, has already made waves, raising an impressive 30% of its target. Even legendary food critic Jay Rayner highlighted it in his column in The Guardian, boosting its momentum. The Crowdfunder is packed with enticing rewards, including exclusive experiences with world-renowned chefs and 150%-value gift cards that make for perfect Christmas presents for Maneki Ramen fans.
A Community-Centered Approach
Maneki Ramen’s co-owner Pete Dovaston shared his excitement about expanding to Birmingham:
“We’re thrilled to create a neighbourhood restaurant in the Jewellery Quarter. It’s a chance to bring our award-winning dishes to a bigger audience and immerse ourselves in Birmingham’s vibrant food scene. This new space will be a reflection of our passion for crafting incredible ramen and Japanese-inspired dishes while connecting with the local community.”
The team chose Crowdfunder as the platform to bring their vision to life, inspired by the success of their community-focused approach in Worcester. Co-owner Dorian Kirk explained:
“Crowdfunder felt like the perfect fit. We’ve embedded ourselves into the Worcester community and knew it was essential to replicate that connection in Birmingham. This platform allows us to engage with our customers directly, giving them a stake in building something truly special.”
A Taste of What’s to Come
Fans eager to get a preview of Maneki Ramen’s award-winning menu can head to Birmingham’s famous Digbeth Dining Club at Herbert’s Yard on Thursday, 5th December. In an innovative twist, visitors can pay for their food with a pledge to the Crowdfunder, offering a chance to enjoy Maneki Ramen’s signature flavours while supporting their new venture.
With some rewards already selling out, now is the time to visit the Crowdfunder page, snap up a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and help make this exciting new space a reality. Maneki Ramen is poised to bring something truly unique to Birmingham, and the community’s support will play a vital role in shaping its future.
Get involved and pledge your support today—together, we can make this new neighbourhood Japanese restaurant a staple in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
CHECK OUT THE CAMPAIGN HERE!