Chabrot, an intimate 65 cover restaurant across two floors, is reminiscent of a classic French bistro in design, offering a menu of dishes from across Southern France. Chabrot is in fact a traditional Dordogne/Charente ritual which became increasingly popular during the food shortages in the 2nd world war. Wine is poured into the dregs of a soup bowl for a final mouthful
Newby teas
Did I enjoy my Newby threesome? Yes I did, although I would have been interested to try one of their more unusual flavours which include saffron, chocolate, cardamom; pineapple and honey. Mine was a traditional selection and while I can genuinely say that Newby do a very good version of these teas with some rather snazzy packaging to boot, I’m still left wondering if they’re more Raj than original?
The Saucy Fish Co. launches fishcakes with sauce filling
The Saucy Fish Co., who pride themselves on the high fish content in their products, has launched two new fishcakes that contain a sauce filled centre. The new flavours are Salmon and Hollandaise and Smoked Haddock and Davidstow Cheddar®.
The Tommyfield
From the outside, the Tommyfield certainly looks the part; smartly decked out in black, with large windows, and on a prominent corner plot, it’s very inviting. Like its sister venues, the Tommyfield offers good food and drink in smart, casual surroundings, delivered by friendly, efficient staff.
Marisco wines, big fruity flavours in the glass
We tasted the Marisco Pinot Gris, The Ned and The King’s Favour Sauvignon Blanc, two bold white wines each with big distinctive character.
Hotel du Vin comes to London with its brand new Bistro du Vin Clerkenwell
Although Descartes would almost certainly disapprove, the opening of Bistro du Vin Clerkenwell this coming April, is definitely something to celebrate
100 years of chocolate heaven
Hard to believe that Thorntons chocolate is 100 years old but they are celebrating their centenary of creating great choccy treats with the launch of Centenary boxes, bars and bags.
Vagabond wines – a taster or a glass?
Together with a select group of food and drink writers I was invited recently to Vagabond Wines to sample some of the wines that owner, Stephen Finch, considered particularly special among those he has on sale at this unique, perhaps groundbreaking shop.
Sexy porridge?
When you think of sensual experiences, porridge might not be the first thing that comes to mind, unless it involves nudity and spatula. But that might change when you try Rude Health’s Valentine’s porridge recipes.
Imli, an Indian ‘tapas’ restaurant in London’s Soho
If you’re not in the income bracket that can afford to eat at Tamarind, the Michelin-starred Indian in Mayfair, you can at least afford to eat at Tamarind’s little sibling Imli in London’s Soho. Food here is light on the pocket but also light on the stomach.