The summer’s turning out to be a damp squib. We, however, are tucking into perfectly dry, crisp fried squid, luxuriating in the warmth of a garden filled with palm trees. Yes, this is London, and no, we’ve not imbibed one too many Maharajah Fizzes- although the 200-strong cocktail menu is undoubtedly one of Carom’s biggest lures.
Levi Roots Sweet
Since strumming his way into the Dragon’s Den, Levi Roots has been a household name and overnight success story. As one of the UK’s best loved foodie personalities his Midas touch was always likely to extend to the bookshelves. The latest cookbook to bear his mantel is a bounteous anthology of Caribbean inspired desserts, cocktails and sweet snacks representing the gastropreneur’s first concerted foray beyond his signature realm of savoury spice.
Mojitos and Ceviche by Asia De Cuba
What is the hottest trend in London right now? Peruvian food. The award winning Asia de Cuba at St Martin’s lane Hotel has taken over “The Front Room” to instal their summer pop up serving Mojitos and Ceviches.
Surprising result for Bertolli Spread Olive D’Oro Award
The best Italian food in the UK is to be found in the North, according to an award campaign to find Britain’s favourite Italian delis and trattorias.
The Magdalen Chapter, Exeter. A real eye-opener
Once a Victorian eye hospital, this Exeter landmark is now a blindingly cool hotel where there are no reception desks, every guest gets an iPad and Simon Hopkinson heads up the creative controls of the restaurant.
Goode & Wright in Portobello Road, London
Stepping into this shoebox-sized ‘Anglo Franco’ bistro is like travelling back in time 70 years to an era of post-war libération; it has the bohemian air of a secret, oak panelled salon, artists in residence huddled in a Gauloises haze.
Lowcountry Bar and Eating House, Fulham
The grits (like a coarse polenta) provided an unctuous creaminess which slowly dissolved to give way to tiny crunchy flecks. The fabulous accompanying prawns exploded like meaty fireworks between the teeth. Deep fried onion bits gave an additional depth of flavour and had they been a little crunchier, they would have provided yet another dimension of texture.
Poppies Fish and Chips, Spitalfield
It’s not cheap, but then fish isn’t cheap these days, especially cod. It is however about as healthy as fast food gets and it’s certainly great quality and cooked properly. I doubt we’ll ever see a return of the high street chippy, but Poppies’ gently ironic take on the past is certainly welcome.
Champagne + Fromage: a happy coupling on Wellington Street
Down in London’s Covent Garden, a curtain swish from the grand theatres of Drury Lane, lies a shy canoodling couple up for a bit of exhibitionism. Champagne and fromage are being served together in a little shop-cum-bistro, and they’re unashamed of their curious pairing.
The Northall at the Corinthia
Overall, I liked the Northall, the cooking was good and it is obvious that they are taking care to source quality ingredients. They are not pushing boundaries at the cutting edge of British cuisine, but that isn’t what grand hotel dining rooms are for, and if you eat from one of their fixed price menus, there is value on offer