EXCLUSIVE: Keir Starmer is fired up for day three of Labour conference, fuelled by… FISH AND CHEESE
— Matt Chorley (@MattChorley) September 27, 2021
More of this vital journalism on @TimesRadio from 10am live from Brighton pic.twitter.com/lniW5CyJp3
Showing posts with label fish. Show all posts
Showing posts with label fish. Show all posts
Monday, September 27, 2021
The Bizarre Eating Habits of Our Politicians
Saturday, July 20, 2019
English's of Brighton
Restaurant
English’s of Brighton
29-31 East Street
Brighton
East Sussex
BN1 1HL
☎️ 01273 328645
Overview
Eva and I have been going to English's for many years, and have always had a great time there. Last night was no different!
Ambience
English's serves a great selection of fish and seafood.
As per their site:
"English’s of Brighton is the oldest seafood restaurant in Brighton, and you’ll find us in the heart of the Lanes, nestled amongst its famous winding streets. The Leigh-Jones family have been here since 1945, and we’ve seen some familiar faces come and go. Pop in and take a look at our hall of fame and you’ll find signed photographs of Charlie Chaplin, Lily Savage and Judy Dench, amongst others - or ask our staff about the ghostly gentlemen in an oversized top hat that can sometimes be seen walking through our kitchens.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional plate of seafood, or in the mood to sample our contemporary twist on classic dishes, our expert staff will make sure you order the right meal for you, with a wine to match perfectly. We offer a unique dining experience, and can accommodate parties of all sizes, from an intimate table for two to a restaurant wedding reception. In warmer weather there is no better place to dine than on our covered and heated terrace. Enjoy plates of fresh seafood, fine wines and warm sunshine, and watch the world go by with live jazz or opera playing regularly. Or take a seat at our stunning marble-topped oyster bar, where you can join us for a platter of oysters or a decadent three-course meal."
The menu has an excellent selection of seafood, fish, steaks and chops.
Service
As per usual we were very warmly welcomed, the service from all the members of staff was (as ever) very friendly, personal, efficient and professional. We were even presented with a couple of glasses of champagne, on the house, when we sat down.
Food
Eva started with the potted shrimp served with bread, dill, crème fraiche, nutmeg and cayenne. It was moist, flavoursome and lovely way to start the meal.
She then opted for the lemon sole fillets which came with parmesan potato puree, spinach, bacon and mushroom cream. The dish was delicately flavoured, no one element overpowering the others, and was thoroughly enjoyed by her.
I started with half a lobster thermidor, which came in a light mustard sauce. Bloody marvellous, next time I might have a whole one!
I then had the 10oz Sussex pork chop on the bone with chips and peas. It was great, the chop was tender, succulent and flavoursome.
The bill, which included, service, Bollinger and several flaming sambucas came to £219.
Overall Opinion
We love English's, and will most assuredly be going again!
Monday, January 29, 2018
English's of Brighton - Special Offer To New Diners
Not dined with us before? You can claim a free bottle of house wine (one bottle per couple) when you do. Go here to book - offer not available on Valentine's Day https://t.co/6FeqrtyPK4 pic.twitter.com/OuxBdlwCQB
— English’s of Brighton (@EnglishsoB) January 28, 2018
I commend English's; great food, service and ambience!
Friday, June 02, 2017
Happy National Fish and Chip Day!
Happy #nationalfishandchipsday! Here's a question: What do you put on your chips? Let's see what's popular!
— Brighton Palace Pier (@BTNPalacePier) June 2, 2017
Thursday, October 22, 2009
The Dover Castle (Brighton)
The Dover Castle (Brighton)
My compliments to the Dover Castle:
43 Southover Street
Brighton
West Sussex
BN2 2UE
Telephone: 01273 889808
Eva, myself and a friend from Sweden dined there last night and had thoroughly enjoyable time and meal.
The menu specialises in fish, sourced daily from the locality, the selection on offer is written on a blackboard and as the evening wears on the dishes that run out are crossed out. Other non fish dishes are also available.
Being a "contrarian" I had the steak and chips, which was first class; the steak was tender and succulent, and the chips, onion rings, peas and tomato all ticked the right boxes taste and portion wise.
The butternut squash soup and mezze, that we also scoffed, were likewise excellent.
The selection of beers, lagers (including Asahi) and wine is decent and the staff are very friendly, easy going and service minded (eg I appreciated being offered a smaller (and cheaper) bowl of soup as a starter).
All in all a good place to have a reasonably priced, good quality meal in a friendly atmosphere.
My compliments to the Dover Castle:
43 Southover Street
Brighton
West Sussex
BN2 2UE
Telephone: 01273 889808
Eva, myself and a friend from Sweden dined there last night and had thoroughly enjoyable time and meal.
The menu specialises in fish, sourced daily from the locality, the selection on offer is written on a blackboard and as the evening wears on the dishes that run out are crossed out. Other non fish dishes are also available.
Being a "contrarian" I had the steak and chips, which was first class; the steak was tender and succulent, and the chips, onion rings, peas and tomato all ticked the right boxes taste and portion wise.
The butternut squash soup and mezze, that we also scoffed, were likewise excellent.
The selection of beers, lagers (including Asahi) and wine is decent and the staff are very friendly, easy going and service minded (eg I appreciated being offered a smaller (and cheaper) bowl of soup as a starter).
All in all a good place to have a reasonably priced, good quality meal in a friendly atmosphere.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
The TreeHouse Revisited
The TreeHouse Revisited
Eva and I dined again in the TreeHouse last Saturday, and had another excellent and thoroughly enjoyable meal. We feasted on cauliflower soup, crab cakes, baked cod and lamb shank shepherd's pie.
Unlike some restaurants, the TreeHouse prepares and cooks fresh ingredients on the premises; it does not reheat or microwave its food.
The TreeHouse produces consistently good quality fresh food, in a lively and friendly atmosphere.
It is well worth visiting.
Eva and I dined again in the TreeHouse last Saturday, and had another excellent and thoroughly enjoyable meal. We feasted on cauliflower soup, crab cakes, baked cod and lamb shank shepherd's pie.
Unlike some restaurants, the TreeHouse prepares and cooks fresh ingredients on the premises; it does not reheat or microwave its food.
The TreeHouse produces consistently good quality fresh food, in a lively and friendly atmosphere.
It is well worth visiting.
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
BA Fish Tart
BA Fish Tart
Yesterday BA attempted to serve me with a salmon and dill tart for tea, on their London-Stockholm flight.
I took one sniff of it, and declined.
Fish should not smell of fish. A very poor offering for an in flight meal.
Yesterday BA attempted to serve me with a salmon and dill tart for tea, on their London-Stockholm flight.
I took one sniff of it, and declined.
Fish should not smell of fish. A very poor offering for an in flight meal.
Thursday, March 22, 2007
Lilla Pakistan
Restaurant
Restaurant Lilla Pakistan
Sankt Eriksgatan 66
113 20 Stockholm
Sweden
Phone (46) (8) 30 56 46
Website www.lillapakistan.com
Overview
Stockholm has a paucity of good quality Indian/Pakistani restaurants, usually the food is too bland or the decor is that of a cold and uninviting cafe. After some considerable searching on the net, for anything resembling quality, Eva and I came across Restaurant Lilla Pakistan which we decided to try out a few weeks ago.
Lilla Pakistan was established in the early 1990's, and specialises in Pakistani food.
Ambience
Lilla Pakistan is a small, intimate restaurant with dark polished wooden tables, mirrors on the walls and a part open kitchen all of which contribute to a pleasant and inviting atmosphere.
Menu
The menu provided a good selection of Pakistani main courses; fish, meat, chicken and vegetables. However, there were only three appetisers to choose from.
Service
The service was professional and friendly, and advice was also on hand should we have needed it in respect of which wine to accompany our meal.
Food
I chose the Mezban Kae Teen Shorbe to start with. This consisted of 3 different types of soups seasoned with fresh herbs. The soups came in miniature bowls and were excellent. However, one was tomato soup and I would question as to what this really has to do with Pakistani cuisine.
Eva chose the Golshan Barre to start with. This is described on the menu as:
"Lentil dumplings soaked in yoghurt served with freshly chopped onions, tomatoes, chilies, herbs and chaat masala."
Quite honestly this was a complete disappointment, the dumplings were minuscule and hard to detect within the mound of chopped onions etc. Eva was not happy with her choice.
To our view, the appetiser section of the menu requires more attention in terms of choices of dishes on offer, and what actually goes into them.
Fortunately our main courses were better!
I chose the Zafrani Pasanda Fruita; which consisted of marinated tender chunks of lamb roast in a saffron gravy, garnished with fried fruits with ginger, roasted Pakistani pine kernels, with marinated cheese. This was first class, the meat was exceptional tender and flavoursome and was well complemented by the fruits and ginger.
Eva chose the Dahi Gosht for her main course. This was beef cooked in garam masala and yoghurt, a fine dish spicy and stimulating.
To accompany our meal we had Sabzi Ka Pakwan vegetables, potatoes baked with raisins,
fresh herbs and mushrooms; together with two nan breads and rice.
The meal, which included a bottle of sweet German wine, came to 1230SEK before tip.
Overall Opinion
A good quality Asian restaurant, one that Stockholm badly needs. However, as noted, we do feel that the appetisers need more work in terms of choice and content.
Restaurant Lilla Pakistan
Sankt Eriksgatan 66
113 20 Stockholm
Sweden
Phone (46) (8) 30 56 46
Website www.lillapakistan.com
Overview
Stockholm has a paucity of good quality Indian/Pakistani restaurants, usually the food is too bland or the decor is that of a cold and uninviting cafe. After some considerable searching on the net, for anything resembling quality, Eva and I came across Restaurant Lilla Pakistan which we decided to try out a few weeks ago.
Lilla Pakistan was established in the early 1990's, and specialises in Pakistani food.
Ambience
Lilla Pakistan is a small, intimate restaurant with dark polished wooden tables, mirrors on the walls and a part open kitchen all of which contribute to a pleasant and inviting atmosphere.
Menu
The menu provided a good selection of Pakistani main courses; fish, meat, chicken and vegetables. However, there were only three appetisers to choose from.
Service
The service was professional and friendly, and advice was also on hand should we have needed it in respect of which wine to accompany our meal.
Food
I chose the Mezban Kae Teen Shorbe to start with. This consisted of 3 different types of soups seasoned with fresh herbs. The soups came in miniature bowls and were excellent. However, one was tomato soup and I would question as to what this really has to do with Pakistani cuisine.
Eva chose the Golshan Barre to start with. This is described on the menu as:
"Lentil dumplings soaked in yoghurt served with freshly chopped onions, tomatoes, chilies, herbs and chaat masala."
Quite honestly this was a complete disappointment, the dumplings were minuscule and hard to detect within the mound of chopped onions etc. Eva was not happy with her choice.
To our view, the appetiser section of the menu requires more attention in terms of choices of dishes on offer, and what actually goes into them.
Fortunately our main courses were better!
I chose the Zafrani Pasanda Fruita; which consisted of marinated tender chunks of lamb roast in a saffron gravy, garnished with fried fruits with ginger, roasted Pakistani pine kernels, with marinated cheese. This was first class, the meat was exceptional tender and flavoursome and was well complemented by the fruits and ginger.
Eva chose the Dahi Gosht for her main course. This was beef cooked in garam masala and yoghurt, a fine dish spicy and stimulating.
To accompany our meal we had Sabzi Ka Pakwan vegetables, potatoes baked with raisins,
fresh herbs and mushrooms; together with two nan breads and rice.
The meal, which included a bottle of sweet German wine, came to 1230SEK before tip.
Overall Opinion
A good quality Asian restaurant, one that Stockholm badly needs. However, as noted, we do feel that the appetisers need more work in terms of choice and content.
Monday, March 05, 2007
Dolce Vita
Restaurant
Dolce Vita
Kungsholmsgatan 16
112 27 Stockholm
Sweden
Phone (46) (8) 650 60 80
Website www.dolcevita.nu
Overview
Eva and I went to Dolce Vita on Valentine's night, for a rather pleasant and romatic Italian meal.
It is has been quite a while since we have been to the Dolce Vita. When I lived in Stockholm (1996-2000) we often went there. However, this is the first time that we have been back since 2000.
I am happy to report that it was much as I remember it.
Ambience
Dolce Vita has been in existence since 1985, and serves good quality Italian food in a bright and cheerful setting. It used to make rather a fine selection of pizzas, as well as the pasta dishes. However, pizza is now no longer on the menu.
The restaurant is bright, lively, cheerful and busy. You would be well advised to book, especially if you wish to dine there on a Friday or Saturday night.
We were warmly welcomed and promptly shown to our table.
I would also note that despite the fact that the place was full, and the tables were quite close together, we did not feel claustrophobic (the brightness of the decor helped a lot in that respect).
Menu
The menu offered a good selection of Italian dishes (except for pizza) including, steak, veal, chicken, pasta and fish dishes.
Service
The service was very good; efficient, friendly and prompt.
Food
Eva started with the Scampi Piri Piri sauteed in olive oil, paprika and garlic. These were splendid looking fellows indeed, magnificently plump. Fresh and tasty, neither too much oil or garlic had been used to overpower the taste.
I chose the spaghetti bolognese, yes I was a greedy pig! Our waiter warned me about the size of the dish, and even offered me a child's portion.
Needless to say, I chose "adult size".
The dish was as I would have wished it to be; robust, tasty, large and accompanied by a huge bowl of freshly grated Parmesan.
What more could a man ask for to start his meal with?
Eva then chose the veal escalope with Mozzarella in a white wine sauce. She was more than pleased with this dish, the sauce complemented the meat and the cheese was not too rich. The veal was tender and flavoursome, not overpowered by the sauce with added just the right amount of piquantness.
However, the quantity of the dish defeated her (hence the need to summon the doggie bag at the end).
I opted for the fillet steak in a pepper and cognac sauce. Now I have absolutely no complaints about the quality of the meat, it melted in the mouth and was a good sized decently cooked portion of good quality fillet steak. However, I feel that the sauce needed some attention:
1 The pepper element of it was not quite as strong as I would have preferred.
2 The steak was topped with a slab of goat's cheese, which was totally unnecessary and overpowered the pepper sauce along with every other ingredient on the plate.
Polite advice to the chef:
"Lose the cheese, the dish most certainly does not need it"
That being said, I finished the steak (having removed the cheese).
Our main courses came with a very generous bowl of home made saute potatoes, which were excellent and far removed from the sad greasy fries served by many establishments.
The meal, which included a bottle of Mateus Rose, came to 896SEK before tip.
Overall Opinion
A good, fun, cheerful restaurant; we are happy to recommend it.
Dolce Vita
Kungsholmsgatan 16
112 27 Stockholm
Sweden
Phone (46) (8) 650 60 80
Website www.dolcevita.nu
Overview
Eva and I went to Dolce Vita on Valentine's night, for a rather pleasant and romatic Italian meal.
It is has been quite a while since we have been to the Dolce Vita. When I lived in Stockholm (1996-2000) we often went there. However, this is the first time that we have been back since 2000.
I am happy to report that it was much as I remember it.
Ambience
Dolce Vita has been in existence since 1985, and serves good quality Italian food in a bright and cheerful setting. It used to make rather a fine selection of pizzas, as well as the pasta dishes. However, pizza is now no longer on the menu.
The restaurant is bright, lively, cheerful and busy. You would be well advised to book, especially if you wish to dine there on a Friday or Saturday night.
We were warmly welcomed and promptly shown to our table.
I would also note that despite the fact that the place was full, and the tables were quite close together, we did not feel claustrophobic (the brightness of the decor helped a lot in that respect).
Menu
The menu offered a good selection of Italian dishes (except for pizza) including, steak, veal, chicken, pasta and fish dishes.
Service
The service was very good; efficient, friendly and prompt.
Food
Eva started with the Scampi Piri Piri sauteed in olive oil, paprika and garlic. These were splendid looking fellows indeed, magnificently plump. Fresh and tasty, neither too much oil or garlic had been used to overpower the taste.
I chose the spaghetti bolognese, yes I was a greedy pig! Our waiter warned me about the size of the dish, and even offered me a child's portion.
Needless to say, I chose "adult size".
The dish was as I would have wished it to be; robust, tasty, large and accompanied by a huge bowl of freshly grated Parmesan.
What more could a man ask for to start his meal with?
Eva then chose the veal escalope with Mozzarella in a white wine sauce. She was more than pleased with this dish, the sauce complemented the meat and the cheese was not too rich. The veal was tender and flavoursome, not overpowered by the sauce with added just the right amount of piquantness.
However, the quantity of the dish defeated her (hence the need to summon the doggie bag at the end).
I opted for the fillet steak in a pepper and cognac sauce. Now I have absolutely no complaints about the quality of the meat, it melted in the mouth and was a good sized decently cooked portion of good quality fillet steak. However, I feel that the sauce needed some attention:
1 The pepper element of it was not quite as strong as I would have preferred.
2 The steak was topped with a slab of goat's cheese, which was totally unnecessary and overpowered the pepper sauce along with every other ingredient on the plate.
Polite advice to the chef:
"Lose the cheese, the dish most certainly does not need it"
That being said, I finished the steak (having removed the cheese).
Our main courses came with a very generous bowl of home made saute potatoes, which were excellent and far removed from the sad greasy fries served by many establishments.
The meal, which included a bottle of Mateus Rose, came to 896SEK before tip.
Overall Opinion
A good, fun, cheerful restaurant; we are happy to recommend it.
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Gourmet Evenings
Gourmet Evenings
Those of you who are fond of gourmet food, may find the gourmet evenings offered by Bronzefield women's prison in Ashford to be of interest.
Seemingly house of horrors killer, Rose West, and the other inmates of Bronzefield have been treated to an evening of gourmet food and opera singing in prison.
West was jailed in 1995 over a series of murders she committed with her husband Fred.
West and 400 fellow prisoners were offered a menu comprising chicken supreme in tomato and garlic with olives and Parmesan or baked fish with asparagus, fennel and mushrooms.
The meal was rounded off with tiramisu and cups of coffee.
The inmates were then serenaded by two Italian singers, who performed operatic arias to backing tapes.
Last week's Italian Day was not a unique event, previous evenings have included Mexican and Jamaican themed events.
The food cost the same as any other day in the prison, this is a lesson for those people who claim that cooking good food is an expensive luxury.
Those of you who are fond of gourmet food, may find the gourmet evenings offered by Bronzefield women's prison in Ashford to be of interest.
Seemingly house of horrors killer, Rose West, and the other inmates of Bronzefield have been treated to an evening of gourmet food and opera singing in prison.
West was jailed in 1995 over a series of murders she committed with her husband Fred.
West and 400 fellow prisoners were offered a menu comprising chicken supreme in tomato and garlic with olives and Parmesan or baked fish with asparagus, fennel and mushrooms.
The meal was rounded off with tiramisu and cups of coffee.
The inmates were then serenaded by two Italian singers, who performed operatic arias to backing tapes.
Last week's Italian Day was not a unique event, previous evenings have included Mexican and Jamaican themed events.
The food cost the same as any other day in the prison, this is a lesson for those people who claim that cooking good food is an expensive luxury.
Friday, September 15, 2006
A Tasty Takeaway
A Tasty Takeaway
Those of you who enjoy an Indian takeaway may balk at the price being paid by Steve Francis, a New York dance music producer for Stush Music.
He is paying over £8K for a takeaway meal consisting of; 1 fish bhuna (using 2 extra large Bangladeshi tiger fish), 12 vegetable birianis and various other side dishes.
The reason that this meal is so expensive, is that it is being flown from the Indie Spice restaurant in Belfast to New York.
Seemingly Mr Francis once sampled the food of the Indie Spice, when he was at a music festival in England.
Well, they do say that curries are addictive!
Those of you who enjoy an Indian takeaway may balk at the price being paid by Steve Francis, a New York dance music producer for Stush Music.
He is paying over £8K for a takeaway meal consisting of; 1 fish bhuna (using 2 extra large Bangladeshi tiger fish), 12 vegetable birianis and various other side dishes.
The reason that this meal is so expensive, is that it is being flown from the Indie Spice restaurant in Belfast to New York.
Seemingly Mr Francis once sampled the food of the Indie Spice, when he was at a music festival in England.
Well, they do say that curries are addictive!
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Los Caracoles
Restaurant
Los Caracoles
Calle Escudellers 14
08002 Barcelona
Spain
Phone 93 302 31 85
Overview
As noted earlier, Eva and I went to Barcelona the other week for a well earned holiday. Despite being on holiday, we managed to continue on our mission to seek out new dining experiences and tried out a number of very enjoyable restaurants and eateries.
One of these being Los Caracoles (The Snails), a marvellous grill restaurant (famed for its spit roast chickens which can be seen roasting, against a large vertical barbecue, through the front window) situated near La Rambla.
Ambience
Los Caracoles is a family (Bofarull) run restaurant established in 1835.
The restaurant was a hive of activity, the cooking being done "open plan" so you can see as you enter the restaurant the chefs labouring over the wood fired barbecues.
There are several rooms in the restaurant, we were taken to one away from the barbecue area. The restaurant is decorated in light colours, with numerous photos of Spanish celebrities who have dined there adorning the walls. Cured hams hung from the ceiling.
Menu
The menu offered an excellent selection of steaks, chicken, seafood dishes and roast suckling pig.
Service
The service was very friendly and efficient, the menu was in English and the staff spoke English.
We were made to feel welcome.
Food
I started with the selection of cold meats, which was a mouthwatering array of chorizos and hams. The bread rolls that came with it were rather amusing,as they were shaped like snails
Eva decided to save herself for her main course which was a paella. This was a very fine dish indeed, containing a variety of seafood; clams, mussels and squid served in a bed of rice which had been cooked in a fish stock.
The taste was well balanced and not overpowering, and the fish were fresh and not overcooked. Eva was well pleased with her choice.
I had a sirloin steak for my main course. This was a very fine cut of meat, rich, thick and with just the right amount of fat to add flavour. The steak was succulent and tender, just right. It was served with French fries, grilled pepper and a grilled tomato.
The meal, which included a bottle of good bottle of Albario Pazo De Barrantes and a very good measure of cointreau, came to 88Euros before service.
Overall Opinion
A fine restaurant, which we will visit again when we return to Barcelona.
Los Caracoles
Calle Escudellers 14
08002 Barcelona
Spain
Phone 93 302 31 85
Overview
As noted earlier, Eva and I went to Barcelona the other week for a well earned holiday. Despite being on holiday, we managed to continue on our mission to seek out new dining experiences and tried out a number of very enjoyable restaurants and eateries.
One of these being Los Caracoles (The Snails), a marvellous grill restaurant (famed for its spit roast chickens which can be seen roasting, against a large vertical barbecue, through the front window) situated near La Rambla.
Ambience
Los Caracoles is a family (Bofarull) run restaurant established in 1835.
The restaurant was a hive of activity, the cooking being done "open plan" so you can see as you enter the restaurant the chefs labouring over the wood fired barbecues.
There are several rooms in the restaurant, we were taken to one away from the barbecue area. The restaurant is decorated in light colours, with numerous photos of Spanish celebrities who have dined there adorning the walls. Cured hams hung from the ceiling.
Menu
The menu offered an excellent selection of steaks, chicken, seafood dishes and roast suckling pig.
Service
The service was very friendly and efficient, the menu was in English and the staff spoke English.
We were made to feel welcome.
Food
I started with the selection of cold meats, which was a mouthwatering array of chorizos and hams. The bread rolls that came with it were rather amusing,as they were shaped like snails
Eva decided to save herself for her main course which was a paella. This was a very fine dish indeed, containing a variety of seafood; clams, mussels and squid served in a bed of rice which had been cooked in a fish stock.
The taste was well balanced and not overpowering, and the fish were fresh and not overcooked. Eva was well pleased with her choice.
I had a sirloin steak for my main course. This was a very fine cut of meat, rich, thick and with just the right amount of fat to add flavour. The steak was succulent and tender, just right. It was served with French fries, grilled pepper and a grilled tomato.
The meal, which included a bottle of good bottle of Albario Pazo De Barrantes and a very good measure of cointreau, came to 88Euros before service.
Overall Opinion
A fine restaurant, which we will visit again when we return to Barcelona.
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Paco Alcalde
Restaurant
Paco Alcalde
Almirall Aixada 12
Barcelona
Spain
Phone 221 50 26
Overview
As noted earlier, Eva and I went to Barcelona last week for a well earned holiday. Despite being on holiday, we managed to continue on our mission to seek out new dining experiences and tried out a number of very enjoyable restaurants and eateries.
One of these being Paco Alcalde, a charming fish restaurant (famed for its fresh seafood) situated near the seafront in the old fishing port.
Ambience
Paco Alcalde was established in 1921, and is still owned and run by the founding family.
It was located just off the seafront in one of the narrow streets of the old fishing village of Barcelona. In case you are worried about walking past it by mistake, don't be! Standing outside, day and night, is one on the staff who greeted us warmly when we arrived and ensured that we had a nice table.
The restaurant is bright, cheerful and charming; it is decorated with cool tiled walls, and numerous ornaments related to fishing and the sea.
It is famed for its seafood, which is selected and prepared fresh every day.
The restaurant has a smoking and non smoking section, as well as a private function room for larger parties.
Menu
The menu offered an excellent selection of freshly caught local seafood, as well as steak and chicken.
Service
The service was very friendly and efficient, the menu was in English and the staff spoke English to varying degrees. They also offered to help us with our three or four words of Spanish.
We were made to feel very welcome. Indeed when it came time for the cointreaus, at the end of meal, we were poured two rather magnificent measures (enough to swim a goldfish in!).
When we left we were offered warm and hearty handshakes by the staff and a friendly adios!.
Food
I have to confess that I am not that fond of fish, so I stuck to the meat dishes; and started with a cannelloni.
This was rather good, unlike the Italian version it contained no tomatoes but instead was very meaty and was smothered in an unctuous bechamel sauce. I was more than happy with this as a starter.
Eva decided to save herself for her main course which was a paella. This was a simple (by British Spanish restaurant standards) dish, containing langoustines, clams and squid served in a bed of rice which had been cooked in a dark fish stock (squid I would say). Note were you order this dish in the UK, it would be stuffed with all manner of seafood, peas and peppers.
That being said, less is more; the dish was well balanced and not overpowering, and the fish were very fresh. Eva was happy with the "simple" version.
I had an entrecote steak for my main course. This was a good thick cut of meat, rich, thick and with just the right amount of fat to add flavour. The steak was cooked just right, and was very tender. It was served with french fries and a grilled tomato.
The meal, which included a bottle of good bottle of Torres Vina Sol and two very large cointreaus, came to 52Euro before service.
Overall Opinion
A superb restaurant, which we most certainly will visit again when we return to Barcelona.
Paco Alcalde
Almirall Aixada 12
Barcelona
Spain
Phone 221 50 26
Overview
As noted earlier, Eva and I went to Barcelona last week for a well earned holiday. Despite being on holiday, we managed to continue on our mission to seek out new dining experiences and tried out a number of very enjoyable restaurants and eateries.
One of these being Paco Alcalde, a charming fish restaurant (famed for its fresh seafood) situated near the seafront in the old fishing port.
Ambience
Paco Alcalde was established in 1921, and is still owned and run by the founding family.
It was located just off the seafront in one of the narrow streets of the old fishing village of Barcelona. In case you are worried about walking past it by mistake, don't be! Standing outside, day and night, is one on the staff who greeted us warmly when we arrived and ensured that we had a nice table.
The restaurant is bright, cheerful and charming; it is decorated with cool tiled walls, and numerous ornaments related to fishing and the sea.
It is famed for its seafood, which is selected and prepared fresh every day.
The restaurant has a smoking and non smoking section, as well as a private function room for larger parties.
Menu
The menu offered an excellent selection of freshly caught local seafood, as well as steak and chicken.
Service
The service was very friendly and efficient, the menu was in English and the staff spoke English to varying degrees. They also offered to help us with our three or four words of Spanish.
We were made to feel very welcome. Indeed when it came time for the cointreaus, at the end of meal, we were poured two rather magnificent measures (enough to swim a goldfish in!).
When we left we were offered warm and hearty handshakes by the staff and a friendly adios!.
Food
I have to confess that I am not that fond of fish, so I stuck to the meat dishes; and started with a cannelloni.
This was rather good, unlike the Italian version it contained no tomatoes but instead was very meaty and was smothered in an unctuous bechamel sauce. I was more than happy with this as a starter.
Eva decided to save herself for her main course which was a paella. This was a simple (by British Spanish restaurant standards) dish, containing langoustines, clams and squid served in a bed of rice which had been cooked in a dark fish stock (squid I would say). Note were you order this dish in the UK, it would be stuffed with all manner of seafood, peas and peppers.
That being said, less is more; the dish was well balanced and not overpowering, and the fish were very fresh. Eva was happy with the "simple" version.
I had an entrecote steak for my main course. This was a good thick cut of meat, rich, thick and with just the right amount of fat to add flavour. The steak was cooked just right, and was very tender. It was served with french fries and a grilled tomato.
The meal, which included a bottle of good bottle of Torres Vina Sol and two very large cointreaus, came to 52Euro before service.
Overall Opinion
A superb restaurant, which we most certainly will visit again when we return to Barcelona.
Sunday, July 16, 2006
Mi Burrito y Yo
Restaurant
Mi Burrito y Yo (My Donkey and I)
Paso de la Ensenanza, 2
Barcelona
Spain
Phone 93-318-2742
Overview
Eva and I went to Barcelona last week for a well earned holiday. Despite being on holiday, we managed to continue on our mission to seek out new dining experiences and tried out a number of very enjoyable restaurants and eateries.
One of these being Mi Burrito y Yo (My Donkey and I), a charming steak house near La Rambla.
Ambience
The surroundings were very quaint and rustic, the specialties on the menu were roast meats cooked on an open fire at the entrance level. Downstairs was a small dining room and bar area (with a most sucullent smoked ham sitting atop the bar) upstairs was a larger dining room with a piano for entertainment.
Menu
The menu offered a good selection of steaks, pork, fish and other Spanish dishes.
Service
The service was friendly and efficient, the menu was in English and although our waitress did not speak that much English we had no trouble making ourselves understood.
Food
We were given a large basket of freshly baked bread, two fresh tomatoes, two large fresh garlic cloves and a bottle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar at the outset.
The idea being to cut the tomatoes and garlic up, place them on the bread and drizzle the combination with oil and vinegar (DIY brushetta).
What may seem to be rather simple idea was in fact absolutely glorious on the taste buds, and is something that we are inclined to institute at home for our own meals.
Having munched our way through our "Spanish canape", we then proceeded with the serious business of eating our meal.
Eva started with a hearty bowl of vegetable soup with fried croutons. This was a splendid dish, not too thick but neither was it too watery. The balance of vegetables and potatoes were just right, with the croutons added a crunchy texture to the dish.
I started with the tortilla, a homemade omelette filled with cheese and mushrooms. This was unctuous, the omelette (as it should be) was still a little runny and combined perfectly with the mushrooms and cheese. An ideal starter.
Eva chose a light dish of carpaccio for her main course. This being Spain it was not that "light", and consisted of a good sized dish of thinly sliced beef interspersed with cheese shavings and drizzled with olive oil. She was very happy with this dish, the more so because the soup had been very filling.
I chose the pork fillet for my main course. This consisted of two very generous cuts of pork, seasoned with herbs, which had been cooked on the open barbecue. The taste was superb, and the meat very tender and succulent. In my view it had been cooked to perfection. The dish was accompanied by a baked potato and grilled tomatoes.
The meal, which included a bottle of good bottle of Spanish wine, came to 70Euro before service.
Overall Opinion
A splendid restaurant, we heartily recommend it.
Mi Burrito y Yo (My Donkey and I)
Paso de la Ensenanza, 2
Barcelona
Spain
Phone 93-318-2742
Overview
Eva and I went to Barcelona last week for a well earned holiday. Despite being on holiday, we managed to continue on our mission to seek out new dining experiences and tried out a number of very enjoyable restaurants and eateries.
One of these being Mi Burrito y Yo (My Donkey and I), a charming steak house near La Rambla.
Ambience
The surroundings were very quaint and rustic, the specialties on the menu were roast meats cooked on an open fire at the entrance level. Downstairs was a small dining room and bar area (with a most sucullent smoked ham sitting atop the bar) upstairs was a larger dining room with a piano for entertainment.
Menu
The menu offered a good selection of steaks, pork, fish and other Spanish dishes.
Service
The service was friendly and efficient, the menu was in English and although our waitress did not speak that much English we had no trouble making ourselves understood.
Food
We were given a large basket of freshly baked bread, two fresh tomatoes, two large fresh garlic cloves and a bottle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar at the outset.
The idea being to cut the tomatoes and garlic up, place them on the bread and drizzle the combination with oil and vinegar (DIY brushetta).
What may seem to be rather simple idea was in fact absolutely glorious on the taste buds, and is something that we are inclined to institute at home for our own meals.
Having munched our way through our "Spanish canape", we then proceeded with the serious business of eating our meal.
Eva started with a hearty bowl of vegetable soup with fried croutons. This was a splendid dish, not too thick but neither was it too watery. The balance of vegetables and potatoes were just right, with the croutons added a crunchy texture to the dish.
I started with the tortilla, a homemade omelette filled with cheese and mushrooms. This was unctuous, the omelette (as it should be) was still a little runny and combined perfectly with the mushrooms and cheese. An ideal starter.
Eva chose a light dish of carpaccio for her main course. This being Spain it was not that "light", and consisted of a good sized dish of thinly sliced beef interspersed with cheese shavings and drizzled with olive oil. She was very happy with this dish, the more so because the soup had been very filling.
I chose the pork fillet for my main course. This consisted of two very generous cuts of pork, seasoned with herbs, which had been cooked on the open barbecue. The taste was superb, and the meat very tender and succulent. In my view it had been cooked to perfection. The dish was accompanied by a baked potato and grilled tomatoes.
The meal, which included a bottle of good bottle of Spanish wine, came to 70Euro before service.
Overall Opinion
A splendid restaurant, we heartily recommend it.
Monday, November 07, 2005
Roast
Restaurant
Roast
The Floral Hall
Borough Market
Stoney Street
London
Phone:- 0207 940 1300
Website: www.roast-restaurant.com
Overview
Eva and I decided to try out the newly opened Roast restaurant in Borough Market last Friday.
Roast is the brainchild creation of Iqbal Wahhab, who founded The Cinnamon Club in Westminster. Roast has 120 seats, and is constructed on the site of Britain's oldest surviving food market, by London Bridge.
Edward Barry designed the Floral Hall in 1858, to house flowers for resale by the market traders; the upper floor now houses Roast, whilst the ground floor will house market traders.
Roast serves traditional British food in a modern lively setting, and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
I would advise you to book, as the restaurant was packed when we went there.
Ambience
Roast is situated on the first floor of the Floral Hall of Borough Market. It consists of a large split level dining room and open fronted spit roast kitchen, together with a bar placed mid centre of the main part of the dining room.
The building has been given a stunning frontage in the form of the portico of the old Covent Garden flower market, which offers diners views onto the market on one side and over into St Paul's Cathedral on the other.
If you like the colour scheme white, then you are in for a treat; white is the order of the day for the walls and high ceilings, together with the linen napkins and tablecloths.
This, coupled with the large glass windows, gives Roast an airy and spacious atmosphere.
The layout of the restaurant means that those diners who are placed on the upper split level by the windows are afforded an excellent view of the market and St Paul's, whilst many of those on the lower level are afforded an excellent view of the bar and kitchen.
I would therefore advise you to specify your preference when booking your table.
As noted the restaurant was very lively, bright and spacious; as such it may not be first choice for a romantic cosy meal for two.
We were given a very good table on the "upper deck" by the window. I was more than pleased to note that, despite the fact the restaurant has a high ceiling and large glass frontage, it was not cold.
Menu
The menu was unashamedly British, and contained a variety of traditional dishes such as; roast pork with black pudding, potted shrimps, roast pheasant, steak and fish.
However, rather bizarrely for a restaurant that calls itself Roast, the one dish that was missing was Roast Beef!
I find this omission to be more than a little daft, and indeed said as much to the staff.
I really would suggest that this dish, that is widely regarded as the national dish of Britain, should be included on Roast's menu as soon as possible.
One other point that I would suggest that Roast address, is the fact that their website does not at the time of writing have a sample menu uploaded. The key feature of any well designed restaurant website is the menu page.
Service
We were warmly greeted, and promptly shown to our table.
The staff were very friendly and efficient. The service and attention to detail was smooth and well co-ordinated as it needed to be, given the number of covers.
Eva's dropped butter knife, was replaced immediately without prompting.
Food
I started with the green split pea soup with salt beef and vegetables. This was a little too thin and watery for my taste; I have been brought up eating yellow split pea soup, which had a much thicker consistency.
I would also suggest that the split peas and vegetables could have benefited from being cooked for a little longer; as they were, to my view/taste, a touch underdone.
I chose the roast suckling pig with black pudding for my main course.
This consisted of several slices of good quality pork, a good cut with just the right amount of fat and crackling, served with a thin slice of black pudding which had been placed atop half an apple.
The pork was very good, the taste and texture was first class.
I would, however, make two observations:
Unlike the pork, they were hot.
The slices of roast pumpkin were splendid, and had been roasted to perfection.
Eva started with the potted shrimps, which came with a lemon wedge and a little toast. They were delightfully indulgent, rich, tasty and filling.
Eva then chose the roast pheasant for her main course, she chose mashed potatoes to accompany it.
The pheasant consisted of a generous portion of both breast and leg, served on top of sherry glazed parsnips. The bird had been well, but not over, cooked. It was succulent, tender and had a delicate game flavour. The size of the portion defeated Eva; so we made off with the remainder in a doggy bag, and had it the next day in a sandwich.
The mashed potatoes were smooth and creamy, and had a better taste and consistency than many that we have had elsewhere.
The meal, which included a bottle of Pinot Grigio (unaccountably they had no Chablis on the wine list) and a liqueur, came to £100 including service.
Overall Opinion
We enjoyed our evening; once the few “teething” issues that I have raised above are addressed, Roast will enjoy commercial and culinary success.
Roast
The Floral Hall
Borough Market
Stoney Street
London
Phone:- 0207 940 1300
Website: www.roast-restaurant.com
Overview
Eva and I decided to try out the newly opened Roast restaurant in Borough Market last Friday.
Roast is the brainchild creation of Iqbal Wahhab, who founded The Cinnamon Club in Westminster. Roast has 120 seats, and is constructed on the site of Britain's oldest surviving food market, by London Bridge.
Edward Barry designed the Floral Hall in 1858, to house flowers for resale by the market traders; the upper floor now houses Roast, whilst the ground floor will house market traders.
Roast serves traditional British food in a modern lively setting, and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
I would advise you to book, as the restaurant was packed when we went there.
Ambience
Roast is situated on the first floor of the Floral Hall of Borough Market. It consists of a large split level dining room and open fronted spit roast kitchen, together with a bar placed mid centre of the main part of the dining room.
The building has been given a stunning frontage in the form of the portico of the old Covent Garden flower market, which offers diners views onto the market on one side and over into St Paul's Cathedral on the other.
If you like the colour scheme white, then you are in for a treat; white is the order of the day for the walls and high ceilings, together with the linen napkins and tablecloths.
This, coupled with the large glass windows, gives Roast an airy and spacious atmosphere.
The layout of the restaurant means that those diners who are placed on the upper split level by the windows are afforded an excellent view of the market and St Paul's, whilst many of those on the lower level are afforded an excellent view of the bar and kitchen.
I would therefore advise you to specify your preference when booking your table.
As noted the restaurant was very lively, bright and spacious; as such it may not be first choice for a romantic cosy meal for two.
We were given a very good table on the "upper deck" by the window. I was more than pleased to note that, despite the fact the restaurant has a high ceiling and large glass frontage, it was not cold.
Menu
The menu was unashamedly British, and contained a variety of traditional dishes such as; roast pork with black pudding, potted shrimps, roast pheasant, steak and fish.
However, rather bizarrely for a restaurant that calls itself Roast, the one dish that was missing was Roast Beef!
I find this omission to be more than a little daft, and indeed said as much to the staff.
I really would suggest that this dish, that is widely regarded as the national dish of Britain, should be included on Roast's menu as soon as possible.
One other point that I would suggest that Roast address, is the fact that their website does not at the time of writing have a sample menu uploaded. The key feature of any well designed restaurant website is the menu page.
Service
We were warmly greeted, and promptly shown to our table.
The staff were very friendly and efficient. The service and attention to detail was smooth and well co-ordinated as it needed to be, given the number of covers.
Eva's dropped butter knife, was replaced immediately without prompting.
Food
I started with the green split pea soup with salt beef and vegetables. This was a little too thin and watery for my taste; I have been brought up eating yellow split pea soup, which had a much thicker consistency.
I would also suggest that the split peas and vegetables could have benefited from being cooked for a little longer; as they were, to my view/taste, a touch underdone.
I chose the roast suckling pig with black pudding for my main course.
This consisted of several slices of good quality pork, a good cut with just the right amount of fat and crackling, served with a thin slice of black pudding which had been placed atop half an apple.
The pork was very good, the taste and texture was first class.
I would, however, make two observations:
- The majority of the crackling did not crackle
- The pork was luke warm rather than hot, I suspect that it had been left a little too long on the plate before being taken from the kitchen to our table
Unlike the pork, they were hot.
The slices of roast pumpkin were splendid, and had been roasted to perfection.
Eva started with the potted shrimps, which came with a lemon wedge and a little toast. They were delightfully indulgent, rich, tasty and filling.
Eva then chose the roast pheasant for her main course, she chose mashed potatoes to accompany it.
The pheasant consisted of a generous portion of both breast and leg, served on top of sherry glazed parsnips. The bird had been well, but not over, cooked. It was succulent, tender and had a delicate game flavour. The size of the portion defeated Eva; so we made off with the remainder in a doggy bag, and had it the next day in a sandwich.
The mashed potatoes were smooth and creamy, and had a better taste and consistency than many that we have had elsewhere.
The meal, which included a bottle of Pinot Grigio (unaccountably they had no Chablis on the wine list) and a liqueur, came to £100 including service.
Overall Opinion
We enjoyed our evening; once the few “teething” issues that I have raised above are addressed, Roast will enjoy commercial and culinary success.
Tuesday, October 11, 2005
A Bad Start
A Bad Start
We all know that breakfast is meant to set you up for the day, and according to tradition the best start to the day is an English breakfast.
Unfortunately, those of you who stay in some of Britain's hotels may find their start to the day to be less than perfect.
That at least is the view according to the 2006 edition of The Good Hotel Guide of Great Britain and Ireland.
It claims that some guests have experienced "watery porridge and cold eggs," "toast with the texture of cardboard," as well as bad service and overpriced meals.
The best hotels for a good English breakfast appear to be small independent ones.
The guide in particular recommends Bark House Hotel in Bampton, southwest England; for its "superb" breakfast of, "moist muesli, exceptional porridge with honey and brown sugar, meaty Bampton bangers, tasty mushrooms, dry-cured bacon, free-range eggs, crisp fried bread."
Quote from the Bark House website:
"All meals are cooked by the proprietor, Alastair, who is a largely self-taught cook. Strong emphasis is placed on sourcing produce from high-quality West Country suppliers. Most fish comes from Cornwall whilst meat comes from a handful of known local farms. Breakfasts are treated seriously, too..."
It definitely sounds like it is worth a visit.
We all know that breakfast is meant to set you up for the day, and according to tradition the best start to the day is an English breakfast.
Unfortunately, those of you who stay in some of Britain's hotels may find their start to the day to be less than perfect.
That at least is the view according to the 2006 edition of The Good Hotel Guide of Great Britain and Ireland.
It claims that some guests have experienced "watery porridge and cold eggs," "toast with the texture of cardboard," as well as bad service and overpriced meals.
The best hotels for a good English breakfast appear to be small independent ones.
The guide in particular recommends Bark House Hotel in Bampton, southwest England; for its "superb" breakfast of, "moist muesli, exceptional porridge with honey and brown sugar, meaty Bampton bangers, tasty mushrooms, dry-cured bacon, free-range eggs, crisp fried bread."
Quote from the Bark House website:
"All meals are cooked by the proprietor, Alastair, who is a largely self-taught cook. Strong emphasis is placed on sourcing produce from high-quality West Country suppliers. Most fish comes from Cornwall whilst meat comes from a handful of known local farms. Breakfasts are treated seriously, too..."
It definitely sounds like it is worth a visit.
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
China Food Scare
China Food Scare
Hong Kong's health secretary has stated that China often fails to inform the territory of dangers in food supplies.
This statement was as a result of tests on five kinds of freshwater fish imported from China, that showed that they contained a banned suspected carcinogen, recently found in eels for sale there.
A Hong Kong health official said China, which produces 90% of the world's supply of farmed eels, failed to inform it when it issued an urgent nationwide health alert last month.
That alert said the eels could contain the industrial dye malachite green, a toxin widely used as a disinfectant on fish farms which has been shown to cause cancer in rats.
Tests then found the chemical in five different species of freshwater fish, that are regularly eaten in Hong Kong.
Needless to say, Hong Kong have now banned these fish in the territory.
Hong Kong's health secretary has stated that China often fails to inform the territory of dangers in food supplies.
This statement was as a result of tests on five kinds of freshwater fish imported from China, that showed that they contained a banned suspected carcinogen, recently found in eels for sale there.
A Hong Kong health official said China, which produces 90% of the world's supply of farmed eels, failed to inform it when it issued an urgent nationwide health alert last month.
That alert said the eels could contain the industrial dye malachite green, a toxin widely used as a disinfectant on fish farms which has been shown to cause cancer in rats.
Tests then found the chemical in five different species of freshwater fish, that are regularly eaten in Hong Kong.
Needless to say, Hong Kong have now banned these fish in the territory.
Wednesday, June 15, 2005
Dangerous Dining In Dhaka
Dangerous Dining In Dhaka
There are more than 5,000 restaurants in Dhaka City. However, the Dhaka City Corporation (DCC) registration lists only 1000 of these.
The remaining 4000 appear to be "missing".
As to the 1000 "official" restaurants, there are only 18 inspectors available to monitor the hygiene standards of these.
Needless to say the hygiene in most of them is generally abysmal. It is reported that restaurant owners often do not clean plates, glasses, and spoons properly; additionally, the water is dirty.
The restaurants are reportedly serving rotten fish, meat from sick cattle, and spoiled vegetables.
Infections of Escherichia coli (E-coli), Salmonella, and Shigella bacteria in restaurant food and street foods in the city are not uncommon.
Sounds like a place to avoid.
There are more than 5,000 restaurants in Dhaka City. However, the Dhaka City Corporation (DCC) registration lists only 1000 of these.
The remaining 4000 appear to be "missing".
As to the 1000 "official" restaurants, there are only 18 inspectors available to monitor the hygiene standards of these.
Needless to say the hygiene in most of them is generally abysmal. It is reported that restaurant owners often do not clean plates, glasses, and spoons properly; additionally, the water is dirty.
The restaurants are reportedly serving rotten fish, meat from sick cattle, and spoiled vegetables.
Infections of Escherichia coli (E-coli), Salmonella, and Shigella bacteria in restaurant food and street foods in the city are not uncommon.
Sounds like a place to avoid.
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