Swine Fever

Douglas Blyde finds the offer of a ringside seat at the tabletop butchery of a Gloucester Old Spot pig at Trinity, Clapham Common, too hard to refuse…

Bistro K, London

Football and fine dining – f-words that fit like fist and fur ball. So when, in the newly-opened Bistro K – plush, South Kensington deluxe – Anita Pati sees a giant sports telly slap bang in the wall, it comes as no surprise that the bar’s owner also owns the Olympique Lyonnais football team.

The 100 Foods You Should Be Eating – Glen Matten

Chirpily written packed full of useful information, clearly explained, and with 100 tempting recipes, this unassuming book can hold its own with the glossy fantasies we’re more used to seeing. It has practicality at its heart and it wants to help you look after yours. What’s not to like about that?

Kale – An Essential Green

Experts have long since known that a healthy diet should include five daily servings of fruit and vegetables, as studies show that enjoying ‘five-a-day’ can offer protection against a wide variety of cancers. But a new study indicates that some vegetables like kale, spinach, Brussels sprouts and cabbage may have greater cancer prevention properties than others.

Kitchen Italia, Seven Dials, London

With an express pre and post theatre menu for £9.95 including some wine, all bases are covered here. It’s not the spot for a romantic dinner a deux, but for honest, flavour packed, well-priced Italian food I can’t think of anywhere that competes in London right now. Rush in and waddle out.

Wedder Scotch Lamb Broth

A hearty broth using wedder lamb (mutton) ideal for warming you up on those cold winter evenings. Ladle generous portions into deep bowls (garnish with chopped parsley) and enjoy!