Lower Marsh is the rather grim street at the side of Waterloo station with its unloved charity shops, tatty vintage and sex stores. A couple of greasy spoons complete the picture, although I do confess a liking for the homely Camel & Artichoke pub, which dates back to the days when the Artichoke was an old hostellery past which artichokes were transported from the docks to the tables of Westminster and the City
The itsu cookbook
Upstairs, at the Notting Hill Gate itsu [dining]’s Butterfly Bar, underneath the rainbow-painted wall decorations and surrounded by sweeping views of London by night, courtesy of the floor-to-ceiling windows, the room was buzzing with book launch chatter.
Hardys wines 2014
It’s an unmistakably Australian style of wine making; direct, assertive, intensely fruity and mellow, delivering ‘first sip satisfaction’ to UK consumers who love the reliability and approachable prices.
A dine at the races – we check out the food at Ascot
It’s a safe bet you’ll eat well at Royal Ascot this year. Nick Harman gets a preview and finds some odd on favourites to put your shirt on. Then runs out of racing puns.
‘Japanese Burrito’ bar Hai Street Kitchen opens tomorrow
Thought burritos were exclusively the preserve of Mexican restaurants? Think again. Tomorrow (March 5th) sees the opening of Hai Street Kitchen & Co, a’Japanese burrito’ bar, in London’s Leadenhall Market.
Evolution of an icon: Fortnum & Mason St Pancras
You may not have realised, but an iconic British food institution opened its second location in over three hundred years late last year. I am talking about the inventors of the Scotch egg and purveyors of fine foodstuffs and picnic hampers for the bourgeoisie. I am talking, of course, about Fortnum and Mason.
Kimchee
Weaving in and out of the suits that inhabit Chancery Lane is good exercise for anyone wanting to perfect their reflexes. Dodge the corporate lawyer, side-step the overpaid PA and somersault over the la-di-das who seemingly do nothing in the big glass-fronted professional officey buildings. Sooner or later you arrive at Kimchee.
Cantina Laredo
Whatever previous critics have said, Cantina Laredo certainly isn’t a bad restaurant. I can’t comment on the authenticity, best ask a Mexican himself, but there is much to commend here from the food to the presentation to the service. If you want to try something different, it’s a solid bet. Go for the gigantic portions, stay for the margarita.
King’s Feed Your Mind Festival of food and ideas
Stuffing yourself silly on the latest must-eat is all well and good, but what does it all MEAN? King’s’Feed Your Mind’ Festival explores the cerebral side of our infinite obsession with all things edible.
Alternative Asian: Sri Lankan at Dock Kitchen
Restaurants which span multiple cuisines usually make Alex nauseous. In Dock Kitchen, he discovers an exception as he tries out their new Sri Lankan set menu.