🚨🍺 | NEW: Experts say every Brit 'needs to drink 124 pints' to save the nation's pubs after lockdown
— News For All (@NewsForAllUK) May 13, 2021
Via @dailystar
Showing posts with label pubs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label pubs. Show all posts
Friday, May 14, 2021
Drink for Britain
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Pub With No Name
A jolly gang of four of us dined in Pub With No Name (58 Southover St Brighton) last night.
As the pub's website says:
"Pub With No Name is housed in a rambling building no architect could possibly have designed. You just keep on finding nooks and crannies and interesting places, and another comfy sofa to sit on. Art and photography decorate the walls. And there are screens for sport, too. Upstairs the function room leads onto a split-level beer terrace.
The bar features cask ale, foreign beers and a shots menu, while Rich’s Kitchen provides Mexican food during the week, making way for The Pub With No Name’s famous Sunday lunch."
Lat's night's specials were a "smorgasbord" (yes I know it's the wrong country!) of Spanish Tapas dishes including; cold meats, meat balls, spicy potatoes, tortilla etc etc.
We had every dish from the menu...because we were greedy pigs!
Our conclusion?
Bloody marvellous!
My compliments to chef Rich.
The dishes all arrived within minutes of each other (no tedious wait) and tasted absolutely great.
We were well pleased, well fed and well stuffed.
I have no hesitation at all in recommending Pub With No Name for its food, atmosphere and friendly staff and service.
We shall return!
As the pub's website says:
"Pub With No Name is housed in a rambling building no architect could possibly have designed. You just keep on finding nooks and crannies and interesting places, and another comfy sofa to sit on. Art and photography decorate the walls. And there are screens for sport, too. Upstairs the function room leads onto a split-level beer terrace.
The bar features cask ale, foreign beers and a shots menu, while Rich’s Kitchen provides Mexican food during the week, making way for The Pub With No Name’s famous Sunday lunch."
Lat's night's specials were a "smorgasbord" (yes I know it's the wrong country!) of Spanish Tapas dishes including; cold meats, meat balls, spicy potatoes, tortilla etc etc.
We had every dish from the menu...because we were greedy pigs!
Our conclusion?
Bloody marvellous!
My compliments to chef Rich.
The dishes all arrived within minutes of each other (no tedious wait) and tasted absolutely great.
We were well pleased, well fed and well stuffed.
I have no hesitation at all in recommending Pub With No Name for its food, atmosphere and friendly staff and service.
We shall return!
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Shout Out To Chef Craig at The Sir Charles Napier
A special and well deserved shout out to Craig, who is the chef at one our very special local pubs The Sir Charles Napier at 50 Southover Street, Brighton (a place that I wrote about in June this year).
The menu that the pub now offers changes regularly, and uses locally sourced good quality ingredients. Aside from staples such as sausage and mash, burgers and home baked pizzas there are specials such as beef casserole, scampi and fish cakes.
Unlike some chefs, Craig does not throw a hissy fit if a customer turns up just before the kitchen is meant to close (9PM) and stands by his post until the meal is finished (including offering a desert).
I would also make special mention of the fact that if a customer (as we did last night) asks for a couple of sausages as a starter (sans mash) neither the staff nor Craig throws a "wobbly".
Eva and I had a great meal last night, kicking off with two excellent smoked pork sausages on a leaf salad (to share), then beef casserole with mash for myself and scampi with mash for Eva. Craig was so worried that Eva wanted mash instead of chips, that he made a special salad as well for her, in case it wasn't enough.
We were even offered a desert (apple strudel), which we shared, well past kitchen closing time.
The food is great, the portions decent and the staff and atmosphere are warm and welcoming.
Go there and try it for yourself!
The menu that the pub now offers changes regularly, and uses locally sourced good quality ingredients. Aside from staples such as sausage and mash, burgers and home baked pizzas there are specials such as beef casserole, scampi and fish cakes.
Unlike some chefs, Craig does not throw a hissy fit if a customer turns up just before the kitchen is meant to close (9PM) and stands by his post until the meal is finished (including offering a desert).
I would also make special mention of the fact that if a customer (as we did last night) asks for a couple of sausages as a starter (sans mash) neither the staff nor Craig throws a "wobbly".
Eva and I had a great meal last night, kicking off with two excellent smoked pork sausages on a leaf salad (to share), then beef casserole with mash for myself and scampi with mash for Eva. Craig was so worried that Eva wanted mash instead of chips, that he made a special salad as well for her, in case it wasn't enough.
We were even offered a desert (apple strudel), which we shared, well past kitchen closing time.
The food is great, the portions decent and the staff and atmosphere are warm and welcoming.
Go there and try it for yourself!
Thursday, June 30, 2011
The Sir Charles Napier
My compliments to the Sir Charles Napier pub of Southover Street on their recently expanded food menu.
Alongside their homemade pizzas (genuinely homemade) and locally sourced sausages and mash (a very nice dish), they have added a variety of hamburgers and a Rogan Josh curry with rice and garlic bread.
I had the Rogan Josh last night, and it was pretty decent in both taste and portion size. Eva had the Carne Misti pizza (tomato, Mozzarella, Parma Ham, pepperoni, spiced beef, spiced pork), the topping of which was flavoursome and generous sitting atop a light base (a welcome change from the stodgy rubber like creations of other establishments).
The pub itself is very friendly and has a lot of character in the true "traditional English pub style".
It is well worth a visit.
Alongside their homemade pizzas (genuinely homemade) and locally sourced sausages and mash (a very nice dish), they have added a variety of hamburgers and a Rogan Josh curry with rice and garlic bread.
I had the Rogan Josh last night, and it was pretty decent in both taste and portion size. Eva had the Carne Misti pizza (tomato, Mozzarella, Parma Ham, pepperoni, spiced beef, spiced pork), the topping of which was flavoursome and generous sitting atop a light base (a welcome change from the stodgy rubber like creations of other establishments).
The pub itself is very friendly and has a lot of character in the true "traditional English pub style".
It is well worth a visit.
Tuesday, March 09, 2010
Sir Charles Napier Pub
Sir Charles Napier Pub
My compliments to the Sir Charles Napier pub (50 Southover Street, Brighton tel 0872 148 6009) one of our numerous locals, which is serving top notch sausage and mash.
Eva and I went there last Friday evening for a drink, and to try their sausage and mash.
For a price of £5.95 there is a choice of several meat and vegetarian sausages (locally sourced), three types of mash and even three types of gravy.
For the money you get three good sized sausages atop a pile of homemade (not packet) mash, with a good quality gravy.
First class food and good value.
The pub itself is cosy, and very welcoming.
Aside from sausage and mash, they also serve pizzas, sausage rolls and sausage baps.
Well worth a visit for a drink and a plate of sausage and mash (served until 9PM).
My compliments to the Sir Charles Napier pub (50 Southover Street, Brighton tel 0872 148 6009) one of our numerous locals, which is serving top notch sausage and mash.
Eva and I went there last Friday evening for a drink, and to try their sausage and mash.
For a price of £5.95 there is a choice of several meat and vegetarian sausages (locally sourced), three types of mash and even three types of gravy.
For the money you get three good sized sausages atop a pile of homemade (not packet) mash, with a good quality gravy.
First class food and good value.
The pub itself is cosy, and very welcoming.
Aside from sausage and mash, they also serve pizzas, sausage rolls and sausage baps.
Well worth a visit for a drink and a plate of sausage and mash (served until 9PM).
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Greed
Greed
It is regrettable to see that some pubs are jumping in on the "gastro pub" bandwagon and attempting to pass of very mediocre food as "gastro", whilst charging top prices for it.
The price of pub food has now "soared" to an average £20 for a two-course lunch and glass of wine, according to the Good Pub Guide.
The guide lists about 5,000 UK pubs and is based on reports from more than 2,000 pub-goers, plus anonymous visits from its editors.
Seemingly some pubs are charging over £10 for a rather pathetic steak and kidney pie. The guide concludes that pubs are overcharging customers by about 67% for food.
I am a firm believer in "what goes around, comes around". Customers will not tolerate being ripped off with poor quality shit, and will vote with their feet by going elsewhere.
The pubs that try to rip people off in this manner deserve to go out of business.
It is regrettable to see that some pubs are jumping in on the "gastro pub" bandwagon and attempting to pass of very mediocre food as "gastro", whilst charging top prices for it.
The price of pub food has now "soared" to an average £20 for a two-course lunch and glass of wine, according to the Good Pub Guide.
The guide lists about 5,000 UK pubs and is based on reports from more than 2,000 pub-goers, plus anonymous visits from its editors.
Seemingly some pubs are charging over £10 for a rather pathetic steak and kidney pie. The guide concludes that pubs are overcharging customers by about 67% for food.
I am a firm believer in "what goes around, comes around". Customers will not tolerate being ripped off with poor quality shit, and will vote with their feet by going elsewhere.
The pubs that try to rip people off in this manner deserve to go out of business.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Pay What You Like
Pay What You Like
The White Horse in Epsom is trying a rather innovative experiment with its gastro cuisine. Every Thursday and Friday evening, in June, the pub allows its patrons to pay what they think that the meal is worth.
Landlord, Stuart Down, said:
"There are no catches.
Customers are leaving exactly what they think their meal was worth. So far it has been very successful and has certainly captured people's imaginations.
What is so exciting about it from my point of view is the feedback we're getting knowing what your customers think is extremely useful.
No one has walked out without paying anything yet, though I'm sure someone will. In fact a lot of people have actually left more than they would have been charged."
As a rough guide, the mark up that a well run restaurant or food outlet should charge in order to make a respectable (not greedy profit) is about 3-4 times the cost of the food.
It would be a very interesting idea indeed, to see some of London's more over priced and pretentious restaurants try this experiment; they might learn some humility.
The White Horse in Epsom is trying a rather innovative experiment with its gastro cuisine. Every Thursday and Friday evening, in June, the pub allows its patrons to pay what they think that the meal is worth.
Landlord, Stuart Down, said:
"There are no catches.
Customers are leaving exactly what they think their meal was worth. So far it has been very successful and has certainly captured people's imaginations.
What is so exciting about it from my point of view is the feedback we're getting knowing what your customers think is extremely useful.
No one has walked out without paying anything yet, though I'm sure someone will. In fact a lot of people have actually left more than they would have been charged."
As a rough guide, the mark up that a well run restaurant or food outlet should charge in order to make a respectable (not greedy profit) is about 3-4 times the cost of the food.
It would be a very interesting idea indeed, to see some of London's more over priced and pretentious restaurants try this experiment; they might learn some humility.
Monday, June 18, 2007
Smoke Detector
Smoke Detector
Those of you who are thinking of having a crafty fag break, in the toilets or a darkened corner of a restaurant or pub, when the no smoking ban comes into force in England in July may have to think again.
Restaurants and bars throughout England have been installing a hypersensitive talking alarm, which will catch the errant smokers out.. A pre-programmed voice message will tell the culprit:
"This is a no-smoking area, please extinguish your cigarette, a member of staff has been contacted."
Seemingly, the Cig-Arrete alarms can detect the slightest traces of tobacco smoke or the flame from a match or lighter; they will be used in hidden areas such as toilets and stairwells.
Thousands of the anti-smoking kits have been supplied to pubs and restaurants in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, where the ban has already come into effect.
The devices are made by Radal Technology, based in Burnley, Lancashire.
The alarms can be adjusted to deliver the voice message in any language or regional accent.
The restaurants installing them are more concerned about being fiend £2500 for inadvertently allowing smoking on the premises, rather than displaying concern for diners health.
Those of you who are thinking of having a crafty fag break, in the toilets or a darkened corner of a restaurant or pub, when the no smoking ban comes into force in England in July may have to think again.
Restaurants and bars throughout England have been installing a hypersensitive talking alarm, which will catch the errant smokers out.. A pre-programmed voice message will tell the culprit:
"This is a no-smoking area, please extinguish your cigarette, a member of staff has been contacted."
Seemingly, the Cig-Arrete alarms can detect the slightest traces of tobacco smoke or the flame from a match or lighter; they will be used in hidden areas such as toilets and stairwells.
Thousands of the anti-smoking kits have been supplied to pubs and restaurants in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, where the ban has already come into effect.
The devices are made by Radal Technology, based in Burnley, Lancashire.
The alarms can be adjusted to deliver the voice message in any language or regional accent.
The restaurants installing them are more concerned about being fiend £2500 for inadvertently allowing smoking on the premises, rather than displaying concern for diners health.
Thursday, February 08, 2007
The Surrey Cricketers
The Surrey Cricketers
23 West Street
Croydon
Surrey
CR0 1DJ
Phone- 0208 288 1781
We held my father's post funeral drink and buffet in the Surrey Cricketers yesterday. I was more than pleased with the catering and ambiance.
The pub is one of the few traditional pubs that you can still find in central Croydon, the walls and ceilings are adorned with nick nacks and memorabilia.
It is "V" shaped, and has a games area in one part and a very cosy comfortable lounge area (with leather sofas and a fire) in the "V" part.
There is not a hint of "theming" as practiced by other establishments. The atmosphere of the pub is cosy and inviting.
The landlady, Debbie Brooks, prepared a magnificent buffet for the funeral party which included; sausage rolls, Cumberland sausages, ham sandwiches, smoked salmon sandwiches, prawn sandwiches, egg sandwiches, vol au vents, pork pies, scotch eggs, a variety of quiches, chicken legs, dips, cheeses and coffee.
The food was excellent; it was good quality, freshly prepared, tasty, reasonably priced and more than generous.
I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending the Surrey Cricketers for a drink, or for catering.
My thanks to Debbie for looking after us so well yesterday.
23 West Street
Croydon
Surrey
CR0 1DJ
Phone- 0208 288 1781
We held my father's post funeral drink and buffet in the Surrey Cricketers yesterday. I was more than pleased with the catering and ambiance.
The pub is one of the few traditional pubs that you can still find in central Croydon, the walls and ceilings are adorned with nick nacks and memorabilia.
It is "V" shaped, and has a games area in one part and a very cosy comfortable lounge area (with leather sofas and a fire) in the "V" part.
There is not a hint of "theming" as practiced by other establishments. The atmosphere of the pub is cosy and inviting.
The landlady, Debbie Brooks, prepared a magnificent buffet for the funeral party which included; sausage rolls, Cumberland sausages, ham sandwiches, smoked salmon sandwiches, prawn sandwiches, egg sandwiches, vol au vents, pork pies, scotch eggs, a variety of quiches, chicken legs, dips, cheeses and coffee.
The food was excellent; it was good quality, freshly prepared, tasty, reasonably priced and more than generous.
I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending the Surrey Cricketers for a drink, or for catering.
My thanks to Debbie for looking after us so well yesterday.
Monday, January 15, 2007
Boozing For Britain
Boozing For Britain
Never let it be said that our beloved MP's do not back Britain, most especially the drinks industry.
Last year our MP's sated their political thirst with over £750K worth of wine for Parliament's bars and restaurants.
That works out at more than a £1K of wine per MP.
Commons bars operate without a licence, and are not restricted to opening hours imposed on outside pubs.
Well done, keep it up lads!
Never let it be said that our beloved MP's do not back Britain, most especially the drinks industry.
Last year our MP's sated their political thirst with over £750K worth of wine for Parliament's bars and restaurants.
That works out at more than a £1K of wine per MP.
Commons bars operate without a licence, and are not restricted to opening hours imposed on outside pubs.
Well done, keep it up lads!
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Krogen Soldaten Svejk
Krogen Soldaten Svejk
Those of you who are residing in, or travelling to, Stockholm and who are in search of a good pub atmosphere and hearty food should check out the Krogen Soldaten Svejk (the Czech Soldier Pub).
It was established in 1974 by the Vada family from Czechoslovakia.
This is a splendid establishment that serves good beer, and hearty East European food in a pub setting.
I particularly recommend the Holstein Schnitzel (fried veal with fried eggs).
Eva and I went there a while ago, and most certainly will revisit it when we are next in Stockholm.
Contact details
Krogen Soldaten Svejk
Ostgotagatan 35
116 25 Stockholm
Sweden
+46 8 641 33 66
Website www.svejk.se/index_en.html
Those of you who are residing in, or travelling to, Stockholm and who are in search of a good pub atmosphere and hearty food should check out the Krogen Soldaten Svejk (the Czech Soldier Pub).
It was established in 1974 by the Vada family from Czechoslovakia.
This is a splendid establishment that serves good beer, and hearty East European food in a pub setting.
I particularly recommend the Holstein Schnitzel (fried veal with fried eggs).
Eva and I went there a while ago, and most certainly will revisit it when we are next in Stockholm.
Contact details
Krogen Soldaten Svejk
Ostgotagatan 35
116 25 Stockholm
Sweden
+46 8 641 33 66
Website www.svejk.se/index_en.html
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
The New Maharajah's
Restaurant
The New Maharajah's
17 Forrest Road
Edinburgh
Phone:- 0131 220 2273
Website www.thenewmaharajahs.co.uk
Overview
Eva and I spent a few days over Christmas in Edinburgh this year. We arrived on Christmas Eve and, with absolutely no plans, decided to pop out for a drink then something to eat.
Having imbibed of a few welcome drinks, we found that rather disconcertingly many of the restaurants we looked in on were in fact closed. The night was getting cold and we had almost resigned ourselves to returning to our hotel, and eating in, when we came across The New Maharajah's; an Indian restaurant serving Tandoori, Mughlai and Bengali cuisine.
The restaurant, situated near the famous Greyfriars Bobby pub, is under new management and claims to have been recommended by Egon Ronay and the Good Curry Guide.
Ambience
The restaurant was bright and cheerful, not one centimetre of flock wallpaper was in sight! Most especially welcome, on that rather cold damp night, it was warm and comfortable.
The walls are painted a light cream colour, the floors wooden parquet. The chairs are red velvet backed, comfortable to sit on and the tables laid with linen clothes and napkins.
Unlike many Indian restaurants, the background music was not a the usual selection of "Asian style" mood music, but an eclectic mixture of disco and Motown from the 1950's, 60's, 70's and 80's. In fact we rather enjoyed naming the tunes, but would note that the music was not intrusive.
Menu
The menu offered a good range of Tandoori, Biryani and Mughlai dishes; additionally there were a number of house specials and standard curries.
As with many Asian restaurants the New Maharajah offers a take away service as well.
Service
The staff were friendly and welcoming, even though it was 9:00pm on Christmas Eve they showed no sign of trying to rush us through our meal.
The service was attentive and efficient, and the staff were happy to explain the dishes when asked.
Food
I chose the lamb baja for my starter. This consisted of a most excellent and succulent chapatti, stuffed with minced lamb and spices. I was very impressed both with the taste and texture of this dish. It was, to my view, an ideal starter.
I chose the Jhallfrezie chicken for my main course, this is a marinated Tandoori chicken with fresh green chilli, coriander and garnished with ginger. It was spicy and flavoursome.
I had plain boiled rice and allo jeera (potato with cumin) to accompany it.
Eva started with the lamb kebab; this was a dish of succulent and tender Tandoori cooked lamb chunks in yoghurt and medium spices, served with a salad. The meat was good quality, and the spices not overpowering
Rather bravely, for her main course, Eva chose the chicken Balti Rooflifter. This dish, not surprisingly was very hot, I guess it had been created especially for the Scottish palate. It consisted of pieces of chicken in Balti spices, chopped onion, green pepper, mint, yoghurt coriander and Kashmiri massalla.
She chose pilao rice to accompany it.
She was delighted with this dish, even though it was by far the hottest that she has ever had.
It is fair to say that it opened the pores!
The meal, which included a good bottle of Pouilly Fuisse and liqueurs, came to £48 including service.
Overall Opinion
We had a splendid meal, and are more than happy to recommend the New Maharajah's as a place worth visiting when in Edinburgh.
The New Maharajah's
17 Forrest Road
Edinburgh
Phone:- 0131 220 2273
Website www.thenewmaharajahs.co.uk
Overview
Eva and I spent a few days over Christmas in Edinburgh this year. We arrived on Christmas Eve and, with absolutely no plans, decided to pop out for a drink then something to eat.
Having imbibed of a few welcome drinks, we found that rather disconcertingly many of the restaurants we looked in on were in fact closed. The night was getting cold and we had almost resigned ourselves to returning to our hotel, and eating in, when we came across The New Maharajah's; an Indian restaurant serving Tandoori, Mughlai and Bengali cuisine.
The restaurant, situated near the famous Greyfriars Bobby pub, is under new management and claims to have been recommended by Egon Ronay and the Good Curry Guide.
Ambience
The restaurant was bright and cheerful, not one centimetre of flock wallpaper was in sight! Most especially welcome, on that rather cold damp night, it was warm and comfortable.
The walls are painted a light cream colour, the floors wooden parquet. The chairs are red velvet backed, comfortable to sit on and the tables laid with linen clothes and napkins.
Unlike many Indian restaurants, the background music was not a the usual selection of "Asian style" mood music, but an eclectic mixture of disco and Motown from the 1950's, 60's, 70's and 80's. In fact we rather enjoyed naming the tunes, but would note that the music was not intrusive.
Menu
The menu offered a good range of Tandoori, Biryani and Mughlai dishes; additionally there were a number of house specials and standard curries.
As with many Asian restaurants the New Maharajah offers a take away service as well.
Service
The staff were friendly and welcoming, even though it was 9:00pm on Christmas Eve they showed no sign of trying to rush us through our meal.
The service was attentive and efficient, and the staff were happy to explain the dishes when asked.
Food
I chose the lamb baja for my starter. This consisted of a most excellent and succulent chapatti, stuffed with minced lamb and spices. I was very impressed both with the taste and texture of this dish. It was, to my view, an ideal starter.
I chose the Jhallfrezie chicken for my main course, this is a marinated Tandoori chicken with fresh green chilli, coriander and garnished with ginger. It was spicy and flavoursome.
I had plain boiled rice and allo jeera (potato with cumin) to accompany it.
Eva started with the lamb kebab; this was a dish of succulent and tender Tandoori cooked lamb chunks in yoghurt and medium spices, served with a salad. The meat was good quality, and the spices not overpowering
Rather bravely, for her main course, Eva chose the chicken Balti Rooflifter. This dish, not surprisingly was very hot, I guess it had been created especially for the Scottish palate. It consisted of pieces of chicken in Balti spices, chopped onion, green pepper, mint, yoghurt coriander and Kashmiri massalla.
She chose pilao rice to accompany it.
She was delighted with this dish, even though it was by far the hottest that she has ever had.
It is fair to say that it opened the pores!
The meal, which included a good bottle of Pouilly Fuisse and liqueurs, came to £48 including service.
Overall Opinion
We had a splendid meal, and are more than happy to recommend the New Maharajah's as a place worth visiting when in Edinburgh.
Monday, December 19, 2005
How Much?
How Much?
We have all felt, at one time or another, that we have paid too much for a pint and that the breweries were "having a laugh" at the drinker's expense.
However, the prices that we pay in pubs for even the most "designer and trendy" of beers pale into insignificance when compared to the beer that costs you £32 per pint.
Yes, you did read that correctly, £32 a pint!
Deus, brewed in the Belgian village of Buggenhout, will set you back £32 a bottle in certai restaurants.
Aubergine, a Michelin starred restaurant in Chelsea London, has a beer list which includes pint bottles of Deus for £32.
The Bosteels brewery that brews Deus, which comes in at 11.5%, claims that they treat it like champagne.
Whilst they may treat it like champagne there is no way that it tastes like champagne, nor is there any justification for charging a champagne mark up.
The fact that restaurants are able to get away with charging ridiculous prices like this show that, regrettably, some customers have more money than sense.
We have all felt, at one time or another, that we have paid too much for a pint and that the breweries were "having a laugh" at the drinker's expense.
However, the prices that we pay in pubs for even the most "designer and trendy" of beers pale into insignificance when compared to the beer that costs you £32 per pint.
Yes, you did read that correctly, £32 a pint!
Deus, brewed in the Belgian village of Buggenhout, will set you back £32 a bottle in certai restaurants.
Aubergine, a Michelin starred restaurant in Chelsea London, has a beer list which includes pint bottles of Deus for £32.
The Bosteels brewery that brews Deus, which comes in at 11.5%, claims that they treat it like champagne.
Whilst they may treat it like champagne there is no way that it tastes like champagne, nor is there any justification for charging a champagne mark up.
The fact that restaurants are able to get away with charging ridiculous prices like this show that, regrettably, some customers have more money than sense.
Monday, October 10, 2005
Smoking U Turn
Smoking U Turn
Smoking is set to be completely banned throughout pubs and restaurants in England, after cabinet ministers decided to ask for a U-turn on plans for a partial ban.
The Prime Minister, Tony Blair, has caved in and let it be known that he will not block Health Secretary Patricia Hewitt's calls to overturn the current plans; under which smoking would be banned only in places where food is served.
Those of you who enjoy smoking after a meal, may have just a short time left to enjoy the last gasps of nicotine in public.
Smoking is set to be completely banned throughout pubs and restaurants in England, after cabinet ministers decided to ask for a U-turn on plans for a partial ban.
The Prime Minister, Tony Blair, has caved in and let it be known that he will not block Health Secretary Patricia Hewitt's calls to overturn the current plans; under which smoking would be banned only in places where food is served.
Those of you who enjoy smoking after a meal, may have just a short time left to enjoy the last gasps of nicotine in public.
Monday, June 20, 2005
Christmas Chaos Warning
Christmas Chaos Warning
Whilst it may seem a tad early for the majority of people to be thinking of Christmas, that is not the case if you are in the pub and restaurant trade.
There is a warning that hundreds of local pubs and restaurants in the UK will be shut at Christmas, because they may miss the deadline for new drinks licences.
It seems that only 3% of licence holders across England and Wales have applied to their local authority for a licence.
August 6th is the deadline for applications.
The applications are compulsory following the passing of the 2003 Licensing Act, which transfers responsibility from magistrates to local councils.
Every premises selling alcohol, putting on entertainment or serving hot food (after 11pm) must apply for a new licence.
Councils have warned that they will not be able to cope with a deluge of late applications in July and early August, because many staff will be absent on summer holidays.
You have been warned!
Whilst it may seem a tad early for the majority of people to be thinking of Christmas, that is not the case if you are in the pub and restaurant trade.
There is a warning that hundreds of local pubs and restaurants in the UK will be shut at Christmas, because they may miss the deadline for new drinks licences.
It seems that only 3% of licence holders across England and Wales have applied to their local authority for a licence.
August 6th is the deadline for applications.
The applications are compulsory following the passing of the 2003 Licensing Act, which transfers responsibility from magistrates to local councils.
Every premises selling alcohol, putting on entertainment or serving hot food (after 11pm) must apply for a new licence.
Councils have warned that they will not be able to cope with a deluge of late applications in July and early August, because many staff will be absent on summer holidays.
You have been warned!
Monday, June 06, 2005
Booze Blanket
Booze Blanket
The British Government is preparing to impose a blanket levy on all pubs, clubs restaurants and off licences in its new "alcohol disorder zones".
Home Secretary Charles Clarke had rejected calls to limit the charges to pay for extra policing in the zones of known troublespots.
All licensed premises in the areas designated as alcohol disorder zones will be faced with an average charge of £100-a-week.
Whilst this measure may be appropriate for pubs and clubs, where people go and get "blotto", I fail to understand why the measure is to apply to restaurants as well.
This will have a disasterous effect on local restaurants.
The British Government is preparing to impose a blanket levy on all pubs, clubs restaurants and off licences in its new "alcohol disorder zones".
Home Secretary Charles Clarke had rejected calls to limit the charges to pay for extra policing in the zones of known troublespots.
All licensed premises in the areas designated as alcohol disorder zones will be faced with an average charge of £100-a-week.
Whilst this measure may be appropriate for pubs and clubs, where people go and get "blotto", I fail to understand why the measure is to apply to restaurants as well.
This will have a disasterous effect on local restaurants.
Monday, April 11, 2005
Franklins
Restaurant
Franklins
157 Lordship Lane
Dulwich
Phone:- 0208 299 9598
Website www.franklinsrestaurant.com
Overview
Eva and I went to Dulwich last week to try out Franklins, a pub and restaurant that has gained a reputation for good quality English food. I also understand that the pub is recommended for its beer as well.
Ambience
Franklins consists of a small cosy pub at the front, and an intimate romantic restaurant at the rear. The restaurant is situated on both the ground floor and the basement.
It was a Friday evening, and both the pub and restaurant were very busy, it is therefore advisable to book in advance.
The restaurant was lively, with the open kitchen situated along the wall at the back, yet intimate and cosy. The wooden floor of the restaurant contrasted with the brick walls, on which were hung several large antique mirrors and a large picture of an Empire day outdoor party.
The tables were laid with paper cloths, and were quite close together but not uncomfortably so.
The atmosphere was relaxed, but lively; I would swear that I saw Prince William dining at the table next to us.
Menu
The menu, which was unashamedly English, is varied on a regular basis and had a variety of hearty dishes to choose between. This particular evening, amongst others, it contained; devilled kidneys, jellied oxtail, pork belly with snails, rack of lamb, calves liver with Pease pudding and a sirloin steak.
They even serve a savoury course, which is something that is not so common in restaurants these days.
Service
We were warmly greeted, and promptly shown to our table.
The staff were very friendly and efficient. Service and food preparation were well coordinated as they needed to be, given the number of covers.
We were kindly offered another, less central table, when it became free; a nice gesture.
Food
I started with the devilled kidneys on toast. This was a splendid dish, consisting of a very generous portion of lambs kidneys served atop a chunky cut piece of well toasted bread.
The kidneys were delightful; tender, rich and very piquant.
First class!
I chose the spring chicken with leeks for my main course. This dish was a combination of a succulent, tender whole poussin served with a delicate white wine tarragon sauce on top of leeks.
I chose boiled new potatoes to accompany it. Both the chicken and the potatoes were delightful.
Eva started with the scallop roe on toast. This consisted of a generous portion of pink, fluffy delicate tasting roe accompanied by two triangles of thick cut toast.
It was delicate, delicious and a pleasure to eat.
Eva then chose the rack of lamb with garlic for her main course. This was pink and tender. I tried some and was impressed with the flavour, and texture, of the lamb; it was not overpowered, but complimented, by the garlic. Eva ordered the dauphine potatoes to accompany the lamb, an ideal combination.
Now, by this stage, we normally opt for coffee and liqueurs. However, I was feeling greedy and decided to try the savoury. Therefore I ordered a Welsh rarebit.
I was not disappointed; a more piquant and flavoursome rarebit I could not have wished for, duly arrived.
It consisted of a very generous slice of thick cut toast, smothered in melted Irish cheddar and mustard.
Outstanding!
The meal, which included a bottle of Chablis and liqueurs, came to £87 before service.
Overall Opinion
We had a most splendid meal, and evening. I guarantee that we will be returning to Franklins again.
We have absolutely no hesitation in recommending this fine restaurant.
Franklins
157 Lordship Lane
Dulwich
Phone:- 0208 299 9598
Website www.franklinsrestaurant.com
Overview
Eva and I went to Dulwich last week to try out Franklins, a pub and restaurant that has gained a reputation for good quality English food. I also understand that the pub is recommended for its beer as well.
Ambience
Franklins consists of a small cosy pub at the front, and an intimate romantic restaurant at the rear. The restaurant is situated on both the ground floor and the basement.
It was a Friday evening, and both the pub and restaurant were very busy, it is therefore advisable to book in advance.
The restaurant was lively, with the open kitchen situated along the wall at the back, yet intimate and cosy. The wooden floor of the restaurant contrasted with the brick walls, on which were hung several large antique mirrors and a large picture of an Empire day outdoor party.
The tables were laid with paper cloths, and were quite close together but not uncomfortably so.
The atmosphere was relaxed, but lively; I would swear that I saw Prince William dining at the table next to us.
Menu
The menu, which was unashamedly English, is varied on a regular basis and had a variety of hearty dishes to choose between. This particular evening, amongst others, it contained; devilled kidneys, jellied oxtail, pork belly with snails, rack of lamb, calves liver with Pease pudding and a sirloin steak.
They even serve a savoury course, which is something that is not so common in restaurants these days.
Service
We were warmly greeted, and promptly shown to our table.
The staff were very friendly and efficient. Service and food preparation were well coordinated as they needed to be, given the number of covers.
We were kindly offered another, less central table, when it became free; a nice gesture.
Food
I started with the devilled kidneys on toast. This was a splendid dish, consisting of a very generous portion of lambs kidneys served atop a chunky cut piece of well toasted bread.
The kidneys were delightful; tender, rich and very piquant.
First class!
I chose the spring chicken with leeks for my main course. This dish was a combination of a succulent, tender whole poussin served with a delicate white wine tarragon sauce on top of leeks.
I chose boiled new potatoes to accompany it. Both the chicken and the potatoes were delightful.
Eva started with the scallop roe on toast. This consisted of a generous portion of pink, fluffy delicate tasting roe accompanied by two triangles of thick cut toast.
It was delicate, delicious and a pleasure to eat.
Eva then chose the rack of lamb with garlic for her main course. This was pink and tender. I tried some and was impressed with the flavour, and texture, of the lamb; it was not overpowered, but complimented, by the garlic. Eva ordered the dauphine potatoes to accompany the lamb, an ideal combination.
Now, by this stage, we normally opt for coffee and liqueurs. However, I was feeling greedy and decided to try the savoury. Therefore I ordered a Welsh rarebit.
I was not disappointed; a more piquant and flavoursome rarebit I could not have wished for, duly arrived.
It consisted of a very generous slice of thick cut toast, smothered in melted Irish cheddar and mustard.
Outstanding!
The meal, which included a bottle of Chablis and liqueurs, came to £87 before service.
Overall Opinion
We had a most splendid meal, and evening. I guarantee that we will be returning to Franklins again.
We have absolutely no hesitation in recommending this fine restaurant.
Monday, January 17, 2005
Restaurant
The TreeHouse
78 South End
Croydon
CR0 1DP
Phone:- 0208 688 9837
Website www.treehousepeople.com
Overview
Eva and I were in the TreeHouse bar on Sunday, having a drink, and decided to try out their restaurant.
The Treehouse is a bar and restaurant, serving imaginative dishes far removed from traditional wine bar and pub fayre.
Ambience
The TreeHouse is a quirkily decorated bar and restaurant, occupying the premises of a former pub. The outside of the building is illuminated by a wall of white fairy lights.
Inside, the ceiling is also illuminated by a “net” of the same fairy lights interspersed with tree branches. The emphasis of the décor is wood, wood and wood. The chairs in both the bar and restaurant range from an eclectic mix of traditional wooden four legged affairs to exotic carved tree trunks.
The bar is cosy and positioned at the front of the Treehouse, the restaurant is open to the bar yet secluded and intimate.
We sat by the fireplace, which had been decorated with a mosaic of broken crockery. The intimate ambience of the restaurant was enhanced by the fact that it was illuminated by a bountiful number of candles.
A live Latin band played in the corner of the bar, the music was good and not intrusive.
The bar was quiet, but the restaurant was quite busy; unusual for a Sunday night in Croydon.
Menu
The main menu had a variety of gourmet dishes including; gigot of lamb, scallops, ribs, vegetable shepherds pie, pan fried fillet of sea bass and smoked bacon & stilton salad. There was also a blackboard list of specials.
Service
The staff, in both the bar and restaurant, were very friendly and welcoming. I was particularly pleased that our waitress was honest enough to advise us not to have the lamb, as it was apparently a little tough.
Food
I chose the beetroot and pine nut risotto to start with. This was superb, the risotto was creamy and rich. The taste was a well balanced blend of nuts, rice and cream; topped off with a few shavings of Parmesan.
I decided to try the calves liver for my main course. This was excellent, thick and succulent. The liver had been cooked pink, just as I like it, and was exceptionally tender and flavoursome. It was served on a bed of hazelnut mash, with bacon slices. The mash was delightful.
Eva started with the scallops and peppers. These were lightly poached in white wine, and served with a piquant medley of peppers.
The scallops were excellent, tender and juicy; the portion was just right for a starter.
Eva then opted for the guinea fowl for her main course. This dish consisted of a breast and leg of guinea fowl, stuffed with black pudding; roasted and served on a bed of garlic crushed new potatoes.
The dish was first class, the black pudding complemented the tender and succulent guinea fowl; and the potatoes were a delight.
I will have that myself next time we go there.
We pigged out, and had a side dish of hazelnut mashed potatoes as well; this of course was not really required.
The meal, which included a bottle of Chablis and liqueurs, came to £83 including service.
Overall Opinion
This is definitely one of Croydon’s better restaurants, and one of the few that does not serve reheated or microwaved food. We heartily endorse The Treehouse, and will definitely be visiting it again.
The TreeHouse
78 South End
Croydon
CR0 1DP
Phone:- 0208 688 9837
Website www.treehousepeople.com
Overview
Eva and I were in the TreeHouse bar on Sunday, having a drink, and decided to try out their restaurant.
The Treehouse is a bar and restaurant, serving imaginative dishes far removed from traditional wine bar and pub fayre.
Ambience
The TreeHouse is a quirkily decorated bar and restaurant, occupying the premises of a former pub. The outside of the building is illuminated by a wall of white fairy lights.
Inside, the ceiling is also illuminated by a “net” of the same fairy lights interspersed with tree branches. The emphasis of the décor is wood, wood and wood. The chairs in both the bar and restaurant range from an eclectic mix of traditional wooden four legged affairs to exotic carved tree trunks.
The bar is cosy and positioned at the front of the Treehouse, the restaurant is open to the bar yet secluded and intimate.
We sat by the fireplace, which had been decorated with a mosaic of broken crockery. The intimate ambience of the restaurant was enhanced by the fact that it was illuminated by a bountiful number of candles.
A live Latin band played in the corner of the bar, the music was good and not intrusive.
The bar was quiet, but the restaurant was quite busy; unusual for a Sunday night in Croydon.
Menu
The main menu had a variety of gourmet dishes including; gigot of lamb, scallops, ribs, vegetable shepherds pie, pan fried fillet of sea bass and smoked bacon & stilton salad. There was also a blackboard list of specials.
Service
The staff, in both the bar and restaurant, were very friendly and welcoming. I was particularly pleased that our waitress was honest enough to advise us not to have the lamb, as it was apparently a little tough.
Food
I chose the beetroot and pine nut risotto to start with. This was superb, the risotto was creamy and rich. The taste was a well balanced blend of nuts, rice and cream; topped off with a few shavings of Parmesan.
I decided to try the calves liver for my main course. This was excellent, thick and succulent. The liver had been cooked pink, just as I like it, and was exceptionally tender and flavoursome. It was served on a bed of hazelnut mash, with bacon slices. The mash was delightful.
Eva started with the scallops and peppers. These were lightly poached in white wine, and served with a piquant medley of peppers.
The scallops were excellent, tender and juicy; the portion was just right for a starter.
Eva then opted for the guinea fowl for her main course. This dish consisted of a breast and leg of guinea fowl, stuffed with black pudding; roasted and served on a bed of garlic crushed new potatoes.
The dish was first class, the black pudding complemented the tender and succulent guinea fowl; and the potatoes were a delight.
I will have that myself next time we go there.
We pigged out, and had a side dish of hazelnut mashed potatoes as well; this of course was not really required.
The meal, which included a bottle of Chablis and liqueurs, came to £83 including service.
Overall Opinion
This is definitely one of Croydon’s better restaurants, and one of the few that does not serve reheated or microwaved food. We heartily endorse The Treehouse, and will definitely be visiting it again.
Monday, November 22, 2004
Restaurant
The George Inn
Borough High Street
Southwark
London
Phone:- 020 7407 2056
Overview
Eva and I were near London Bridge the other evening, and decided to try out the George Inn; a pub and restaurant.
The George is London's only surviving galleried coaching inn.
Ambience
The pub was rebuilt in 1676, and retains many of the original features. The ground floor is divided into several connecting bars. There's a wealth of lattice windows and oak beams.
The restaurant is on the top floor.
We had not booked. However, the restaurant was not busy; and the time was relatively early 9:15, the restaurant was not scheduled to close until 10:00.
I asked if we could get a table in ten minutes, allowing us time to have a drink downstairs.
I was told in rather a brusque manner that they were closing early that evening, as they would be opening early the next day. Given the “take it or leave it attitude” we decided to leave it, and went elsewhere.
Menu
I have no idea, as we did not get a chance to see it.
Service
Brusque and unwelcoming.
Food
N/A
Overall Opinion
Given the unwelcoming attitude, we do not recommend this establishment.
The George Inn
Borough High Street
Southwark
London
Phone:- 020 7407 2056
Overview
Eva and I were near London Bridge the other evening, and decided to try out the George Inn; a pub and restaurant.
The George is London's only surviving galleried coaching inn.
Ambience
The pub was rebuilt in 1676, and retains many of the original features. The ground floor is divided into several connecting bars. There's a wealth of lattice windows and oak beams.
The restaurant is on the top floor.
We had not booked. However, the restaurant was not busy; and the time was relatively early 9:15, the restaurant was not scheduled to close until 10:00.
I asked if we could get a table in ten minutes, allowing us time to have a drink downstairs.
I was told in rather a brusque manner that they were closing early that evening, as they would be opening early the next day. Given the “take it or leave it attitude” we decided to leave it, and went elsewhere.
Menu
I have no idea, as we did not get a chance to see it.
Service
Brusque and unwelcoming.
Food
N/A
Overall Opinion
Given the unwelcoming attitude, we do not recommend this establishment.
Tuesday, November 09, 2004
Restaurant
La Barca
80-81 Lower Marsh
London
Phone:- 0207 928 2226
Website www.labarca.co.uk
Overview
Last Thursday Eva and I, having quaffed an ale in the nearby Firestation pub in Waterloo, wandered off to La Barca to have a meal.
La Barca is a traditional Italian restaurant, situated near to The Old Vic theatre.
Ambience
La Barca was very busy that evening, being crowded with theatregoers from The Old Vic. However, despite the fact that we had not booked, we were found a comfortable table without any delay.
La Barca was decorated in a cosy and welcoming manner; red tiles on the floor, linen tablecloths, wine bottles stacked on racks around the walls and a wooden beamed white ceiling.
Since the restaurant was located near to The Old Vic, there was an extensive array of photos of stars (past and present) who have dined in the restaurant.
The atmosphere was lively and stimulating.
Menu
The menu contained an extensive array of Italian meat, fish and pasta dishes including; Gamberoni Burro e Aglio, Insalata Tricolore, Gamberetti Cocktail, Pate della Casa, Bresaola Con Parmigiano, Pollo all’Agrodolce, Pollo Luciano, Pulcino Pasquale and Guelfi e Ghibellini Toscani.
There was also a very tempting cold buffet counter, which offered a good choice of starters; for those who wished to mix and match a taste of Italy for themselves.
Service
The staff were friendly and efficient. We were offered a bowl of excellent garlic olives and bread to munch on, whilst we perused the menu.
Food
I started with the Guelfi e Ghibellini, which was lasagne and cannelloni served together “half and half”. This was excellent. The two dishes complimented each other, without either one overpowering the other. The sauce was rich and creamy; whilst the pasta was succulent and moist, and was generously stuffed with meat seasoned with basil and garlic.
I chose the spring chicken in olive oil, flavoured with chillies, for my main course. This was decently cooked; the bird being succulent and tender. The oil and chilli did not overpower the delicate flavour of the poussin. The dish was accompanied by roast potatoes, green beans and carrots.
I was very happy with my choice.
Eva started with the crab, prawn, mango and avocado salad; which was well presented, and tasted superb.
Eva then chose the fillet of veal with truffles for her main course. This dish consisted of a tender, thinly cut fillet of veal, cooked with truffles in a white wine cream sauce. The dish was very rich and unctuous, but not overpowering; the ingredients, again, complimented rather than overpowered each other.
Eva also chose the roast potatoes, green beans and carrots.
We eschewed, as we were full, the dessert trolley. However, I would say that the variety of desserts on offer looked excellent; both well prepared and tempting.
The meal, which included a robust Barolo and liqueurs, came to £102 including service.
Overall Opinion
I am happy to recommend this restaurant. We will certainly be returning.
La Barca
80-81 Lower Marsh
London
Phone:- 0207 928 2226
Website www.labarca.co.uk
Overview
Last Thursday Eva and I, having quaffed an ale in the nearby Firestation pub in Waterloo, wandered off to La Barca to have a meal.
La Barca is a traditional Italian restaurant, situated near to The Old Vic theatre.
Ambience
La Barca was very busy that evening, being crowded with theatregoers from The Old Vic. However, despite the fact that we had not booked, we were found a comfortable table without any delay.
La Barca was decorated in a cosy and welcoming manner; red tiles on the floor, linen tablecloths, wine bottles stacked on racks around the walls and a wooden beamed white ceiling.
Since the restaurant was located near to The Old Vic, there was an extensive array of photos of stars (past and present) who have dined in the restaurant.
The atmosphere was lively and stimulating.
Menu
The menu contained an extensive array of Italian meat, fish and pasta dishes including; Gamberoni Burro e Aglio, Insalata Tricolore, Gamberetti Cocktail, Pate della Casa, Bresaola Con Parmigiano, Pollo all’Agrodolce, Pollo Luciano, Pulcino Pasquale and Guelfi e Ghibellini Toscani.
There was also a very tempting cold buffet counter, which offered a good choice of starters; for those who wished to mix and match a taste of Italy for themselves.
Service
The staff were friendly and efficient. We were offered a bowl of excellent garlic olives and bread to munch on, whilst we perused the menu.
Food
I started with the Guelfi e Ghibellini, which was lasagne and cannelloni served together “half and half”. This was excellent. The two dishes complimented each other, without either one overpowering the other. The sauce was rich and creamy; whilst the pasta was succulent and moist, and was generously stuffed with meat seasoned with basil and garlic.
I chose the spring chicken in olive oil, flavoured with chillies, for my main course. This was decently cooked; the bird being succulent and tender. The oil and chilli did not overpower the delicate flavour of the poussin. The dish was accompanied by roast potatoes, green beans and carrots.
I was very happy with my choice.
Eva started with the crab, prawn, mango and avocado salad; which was well presented, and tasted superb.
Eva then chose the fillet of veal with truffles for her main course. This dish consisted of a tender, thinly cut fillet of veal, cooked with truffles in a white wine cream sauce. The dish was very rich and unctuous, but not overpowering; the ingredients, again, complimented rather than overpowered each other.
Eva also chose the roast potatoes, green beans and carrots.
We eschewed, as we were full, the dessert trolley. However, I would say that the variety of desserts on offer looked excellent; both well prepared and tempting.
The meal, which included a robust Barolo and liqueurs, came to £102 including service.
Overall Opinion
I am happy to recommend this restaurant. We will certainly be returning.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)