Clubs, Classes & Sports

What's On

Showing posts with label 40 B4 40-Dining Challenge. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 40 B4 40-Dining Challenge. Show all posts

Monday 15 July 2013

40 B4 40-The End of the Quest, or is it?

Anyone that has been following our quest to achieve our '40 B4 40 Dining Challenge' (To dine in 40 restaurants before my wife is 40!), will have spotted that our visit to Rules was: ‘No.38’, and my wife is now 40 - so, technically we have not done the 40, or have we?

The whole thing was, like most thing we do, on a whim and we have been very fortunate to have had lots of fun dining in some great places.

Somehow my wife has kept herself in fine shape and did not reach anywhere near the 14 stone predicted. I however did not fare so well, and there are a fair few extra pounds knocking around.

During the past year we have also re-visited favourite venues for excellent meals, such as Verveine, La Perle, The Marine, The Raft, The Jetty etc., plus pub meals and a couple of restaurants that we did not included. Add to that the curry house visits and Chinese takeaways and we have not gone hungry.

So...., on that basis we could amend original rules which did not allow repeat visits, and we would have smashed it!, or we could gracefully accept a defeat. Either way it does not matter, we had a great time.

Life without a challenge can become boring, and we cannot have that. So, a new challenge is on its way, my money is on it not being too energetic, and being based around food!

40 B4 40 Restaurants Visited:

No.38 | Rules: London WC2
www.rules.co.uk
No.37 | Quilon: London SW1
www.quilon.co.uk
No.36 | L'Autre Pied: London W1
www.lautrepied.co.uk
No.35 | Café Shore: Poole, Dorset
www.cafeshore.co.uk
No.34 | P&O Ventura East: (Atul Kochhar)
www.pocruises.com/cruise-experience/dining
No.33 | The Mill at Gordleton: Lymington
www.themillatgordleton.co.uk
No.32 | Bluebird: Lymington
www.bluebirdrestaurant.co.uk
No.31 | Hibiscus: London
www.hibiscusrestaurant.co.uk
No.30 | The Filly Inn: Brockenhurst
www.thefillyinn.co.uk
No.29 | L'Escargot: London W1
www.lescargotrestaurant.co.uk
No.28 | RAC Club: Pall Mall, London
www.royalautomobileclub.co.uk
No.27 | Gilberts Restaurant: Harrow, Middlesex
www.grimsdyke.com
No.26 | Matahari: Guildford
www.matahariguildford.co.uk
No.25 | Roux at Parliament Square: London, SW1
www.rouxatparliamentsquare.co.uk
No.24 | The Marine: Milford on Sea
www.themarinemos.co.uk
No.23 | The Carlton Club: London, SW1
www.carltonclub.co.uk
No.22 | The Tamarind Tree: Wokingham, Berkshire
www.thetamarindtree.co.uk
No.21 | Lowlander: London, WC2
www.lowlander.com
No.20 | The Beach House: Milford on Sea
www.beachhousemilfordonsea.co.uk
No.19 | Egan's: Lymington
www.eganslymington.co.uk
No.18 | Vesuvio Italian Restaurant: Bournemouth
www.vesuvio.co.uk
No.17 | The Hand and Flowers: Marlow, Buckinghamshire
www.thehandandflowers.co.uk
No.16 | Cantina Laredo: London, WC2
www.cantinalaredo.co.uk
No.15 | Terrace Restaurant (The Montagu Arms Hotel): Beaulieu
www.montaguarmshotel.co.uk
No.14 | La Torre, Castello Del Nero: Tuscany, Italy
www.castellodelnero.com
No.13 | Bel and The Dragon: Godalming
www.belandthedragon-godalming.co.uk
No.12A | Gaucho Charlotte: London W1
www.gauchorestaurants.co.uk
No.12 | La Perle: Milford on Sea
www.laperlemilford.co.uk
No.11 | The Jetty: Christchurch, Dorset
www.thejetty.co.uk
No.10 | Pebble Beach: Barton-on-Sea
www.pebblebeach-uk.com
No.9 | Verveine: Milford on Sea
www.verveine.co.uk
No.8 | The Snakecatcher: Brockenhurst
www.thesnakecatcher.co.uk
No.7 | The Raft: Milford on Sea
www.theraftmos.co.uk
No.6 | Vetiver (Chewton Glen Hotel): New Milton
www.chewtonglen.com/restaurant
No.5 | The Marine: Milford on Sea
www.themarinemos.co.uk
No.4 | The Old Vicarage: Hinton, Dorset
www.vicaragecountryhouse.co.uk
No.3 | Jamie’s Italian: Guildford
www.jamieoliver.com/italian/guildford
No.2 | The Savoy Grill: London, WC2
www.gordonramsay.com/thesavoygrill
No.1 | The Drummond: Guildford
www.thedrummondguildford.co.uk

If for any weird reason you would like to read the reviews on any of the above restaurants, you can search this site by the restaurant name, or find them by clicking here and then scrolling to the restaurant review.


Friday 12 July 2013

40 B4 40-Rules

No.38-Rules (Covent Garden, London)
 
As part of my wife’s 40th birthday celebrations, which seem to lasting around a month, we decided to return to one of my favourite London restaurants (I have quite a few!) for a meal before watching Joe Pasquale in Spamalot.
 
The Big 40 Day was last week, and thankfully a great success, she had loads of presents, bouquets of flowers and I even remembered a card. (Thanks for the reminder Liz). The whole thing was capped with taking over a pub with a mass of friends.
 
Now being in around the tenth day of celebrations, it is proving tough to stay so nice for so long.
 
Before leaving for London, my wife took delivery of new washing machine. Our previous machine had died a week before, so with much gusto and excitement she was loading her new best friend to the gunnels. As we boarded the train she was still smiling a the freshness of her latest wash.
 
This was my wife’s first visit to Rules, which was established in 1798 making it the oldest restaurant in London. It serves traditional British food, specialising in classic game cookery, oysters, pies and puddings. Right up my street!
 
After a tasty starter of Lobster Bisque, our main course arrived; a Steak & Kidney Suet Pudding, and a massive Fish Pie. Tradition, flavour and heartiness all on a plate. Who said the English could not cook delicious dishes before curry!
 
The ambiance was friendly, yet has a special feel about it. From the top hatted and tailed greeting by the doorman, through to the red plush furnishing, burnished wood, crisp white table linen and walls full of historic memorabilia & paintings.
 
As we chatted, including a few conversations about the benefits of a fantastic new washing machine, we were never out of the attention of the serving team, who wore black tie and jackets with a white apron underneath. The service was a sharp as their dress.
 
Choosing a pudding was tough, really tough. Selecting a favourite between; Lemon Meringue Pie, Pavlova with Raspberries, Sticky Toffee Pudding with caramelised walnuts, Black Forest Gateau with morello cherries, Golden Syrup Sponge Pudding with custard or Blancmange with a strawberry soup & summer berries, was never going to be easy.
 
Ultimately, my favourite from childhood won through, and I was soon in ecstasy eating my Golden Syrup Sponge Pudding with custard. My wife even nicked a valuable mouthful as she wondered if her final spin had finished at home.
 
We discovered that during the second world war, Rules stayed open from 1pm to 3pm and offered the compulsory rationed meals at five shillings but could offer copious rabbits, grouse and pheasants which were not rationed. The restaurant could never open on Sundays because it was on Church grounds and could not get a licence.

The restaurant employs 90 staff, and has had many distinguished customers, one of which was Graham Greene, who chose to spend all his birthdays in the quintessentially British surroundings of Rules. There was also a private first floor dining room (now the cocktail bar), where King Edward VII was said to have entertained his lover, Lillie Langtry.

Next year we may return to Rules, but most importantly I will save a fortune on a present, by buying the latest iron on the market – she will love it!

Rules
35 Maiden Lane, Covent Garden, London WC2E 7LB
www.rules.co.uk

40 B4 40: Quilon

No.37 | Quilon: London , SW1

Even though this was a business lunch a couple of weeks ago, it deserves a mention based on the fact that it is an awesome place to eat.

My dining buddy Alistair was in tow as we entertained two clients. (Their names will remain anonymous to protect the innocent.)

 Quilon is a Michelin Star Indian restaurant, specialising in South East Indian inspired food. Housed in a gracious mansion house a stone's throw from Buckingham Palace, it is both elegant and contemporary. Whilst we did not see any members of the Royal Family, we would not have been surprised to see the odd crown here or there.
 
The menu was familiar and unusual at the same time, and we were soon to discover that the familiar was not to be as expected.
 
Most of us enjoy a good curry, and quite rightly so, Quilon takes Indian dining to a completely different level.

Even the chutney's that accompanied the complimentary Mini-Popadums were totally unexpected new flavours. 
 
I am pleased to report that we each shared our courses, so we got plenty to taste and savour. Our 'mini-feast' included Pepper Shrimps in a Fiery Masala, Prawn Masala, Coconut Cream Chicken, Malabar Lamb Biryani, Quilon Halibut Fish Curry, Manglorean Chicken, Lemon Rice and Malabar Paratha.
 
Everything was excellent, but for me, the stand out dish had to be the Halibut Fish Curry, something I had wanted to try for ages.
 
For sweet we had a type of traditional Indian Pancake Chocolate Layer Cake and some fabulous Baked Yogurts in caramelised orange, mango and lychees flavours, plus of course a few bottles of wine along the way.
Indulging in the Indian experience we had gone for a bottle of Indian White Wine and Indian Red wine before reverting to more familiar wine countries.
 
We discovered that Quilon has implemented a Division Bell as requested by the House of Commons & the House of Lords. When a Division is imminent, Members are alerted by a division bell that rings throughout Parliamentary buildings & Quilon, summoning Members of Parliament to the Division Lobbies

When presenting our bill the waiter asked if all was OK. We of course said how we had loved it, and just in passing mentioned that the Indian Red Wine was fine, but the Indian White wine was not to our taste.
 
When the bill arrived, the white wine had not been charged, and no matter how much we protested that we had drunk it and expected to pay, they insisted if we hadn't enjoyed it then they would not charge us. Now, that is quite a special service.
 
You would expect the meal just described to be expensive, but the 3 Course Set Lunch was £24 including coffee, plus service, and this feels good value for such a quality dining experience. The drinks bill was a bit more!

Next door is Zander Bar, the longest bar in London. This of course had to be tried, as were a few more pubs on the way back to Waterloo.  We really should just stop after our meal!

Quilon
41 Buckingham Gate, London SW1 6AF
www.quilon.co.uk

Zander Bar
www.51-buckinghamgate.com
 

Wednesday 19 June 2013

40 B4 40-L'Autre Pied

No.36- L'Autre Pied (London W1)

Some days you just know it is going to be a good day, ....and this was one of those.
 
Today we were dining at L'Autre Pied in Marylebone London with our good friends Alistair & Natalie. Alistair is not one for the sun, mainly due to his pasty skin and bald head, so it was no surprise when following the recent good weather he arrived looking like a beetroot on fire.

L'Autre Pied has a Michelin Star, and is the sister restaurant of Pied à Terre, a restaurant we have had the pleasure to dine in before, and where Alistair says he had his best meal ever. Expectations were understandably high.
 
Each year we like to visit a nice restaurant to celebrate the girls forthcoming birthdays. (My wife's birthday celebrations tend to last for a month before and month after!) On this occasion she had seen a great deal on Groupon, offering the 7 Course Taster Menu at £75 for 2, which is around half price.

click image to enlarge
Before dining, we decided to have pre-lunch drinks at the Artesian Bar in The Langham Hotel which was apparently voted 'The World's Best Bar' by Drinks International. The lounge is a glamorous cocktail bar with a taste of exotic Orientalism and nostalgia. We discovered that the bar is named after the 360ft-deep artesian well under the hotel and specialises in exclusive rum creations, but as it was going to be a long day we stuck to some London brewed beer and gin & tonic.

Suitably watered, we made our way to L'Autre Pied.

The restaurant had a contemporary interior and was pretty hot when we arrived. A quick word with a member of the friendly front of house team and the door was opened and the problem over.

As we commenced our dining marathon, it soon became evident why this restaurant holds a Michelin Star. The service was sharp and the dishes created by Head Chef Andy McFadden were simply incredible creations of flavour, texture and art on a plate.

The first course arrived a nice time after we had settled and enjoyed our first drink. We then had the pleasure of the following menu:

7 Course Tasting Menu
  • Compressed Cucumber with Black Onion Seeds, Avocado Puree and Cucumber Granita
  • Salad of Radishes with Black Quinoa, Creme Fraiche, Fennel and Dill
  • Heritage Potatoes with Creamed Jersey Royals, Black Garlic, Onion Jam and Nasturtium.
  • Grilled Mackerel and Tartare with Hazelnuts, Apple Tapioca, Celery and Miso
  • Roast Suckling Pig with Glazed Aubergine, Ras el Hanout, Green Olives and Sambal
  • Apple Custard with Passion Fruit Sorbet and Pistachio
  • Strawberries with Coconut, Yoghurt and Lime
As you may have spotted, the menu contained two sweets. so, there was I, anticipating a nine course meal. The first pudding went to plan, as my 'no pudding for me' wife simply passed it to me.  Then, shock, horror, she ate the second one!
 
Thankfully, the bread had been plentiful and delicious. My favourites were the Onion Brioche and Walnut & Raisin, whilst others also enjoyed the Guinness Bread and Mini French Baguette.

Amongst our various conversations, the girls were taking a practical angle, and working out the volume and logistics of washing up the complete cutlery sets provided with each course. Alistair and I had no idea what they were talking about, and concentrated on creative ways of insulting each other, whilst savouring the few bottles of wine that accompanied our meal. It was nice that the Vouvray and Gamay de Touraine were pretty fair value for Central London.

The whole event was completed with coffee and Mini Carrot Cake Petit Fours.
 
The restaurant team had managed to leave a perfect time between courses for both our digestion, and time to chat and enjoy each others company. All to soon it was over, and around three hours later we were on our way in a very satisfied frame of mind.
 
The day was still young, so the natural course of action was to find a cocktail bar. Soon we were inside No.5 Cavendish Square trying some alcoholic concoctions.  Alistair was glowing and almost burst when he cracked a joke about a 'couple of pies'. This was pretty strange, as it was actually funny, not Alistair's normal track record with jokes.
 
Whilst having our cocktails we spotted an outside terrace on the floor above. On enquiring, we were told that this was a private Middle Eastern Shisha Lounge. Having never tried Shisha before, we all decided it was worth trying to see if they would let us in for a new experience.
 
Climbing the grand staircase there was no signage whatsoever, only a closed carved oak door. We knocked, explained we would like to come in, and the guy took us to a table on the terrace.

Around us were a number of groups, all appeared Arabic in origin, and experts in the art of the Shisha. The men were looking cool whilst simultaneously puffing and using their mobile phones, there was also a party of girls in a smoke filled corner, and a TV was playing an episode of Arab Idol. One floor up, and a complete change in atmosphere and continent!
 
The waiter helped us through the menu and we decided to share two Shisha's (Hookah), one flavoured Water Melon, the other a Cherry 'Fruit Head'. We did our best to work out how the Hubba Bubba Pipes worked. Apparently, the bottom vase contain water and the bowl is then covered with a perforated foil sheet on which hot coals are placed. This causes the tobacco in the bowl to heat up and create smoke. By sucking on the hose, the smoke is drawn down through the down stem, underwater and then smoked, .. or something like that.
 
It all looked so easy, but it took real long draws to pull the smoke through, only to create a coughing fit when it hit your throat.  We did our best to look as though we knew what we were doing, but we all failed. Indeed, Alistair ending up drawing so hard his head became a smoke filled receptacle with grey clouds appearing from just about every orifice.
 
Having had our fun, and our lunch now running into its seventh hour, it was time to make for Waterloo station and home. But... not before a quick final drink at The Cabin. How we all managed to share some Hot Chorizo Sausage Rolls and Pork Pie & Mustard I am not quite sure, but it did go well with our nightcap.
 

L'Autre Pied: 5-7 Blandford Street, London W1U 3DB
www.lautrepied.co.uk

Pied à Terre: 34 Charlotte Street, London W1T 2NH
www.pied-a-terre.co.uk

Langham Hotel - Artesian Bar
1c Portland Place, Regent Street, London W1B 1JA
www.langhamhotels.co.uk
www.artesian-bar.co.uk

No.5 Cavendish Square
5 Cavendish Square, Oxford Circus, London W1G 0PG
www.no5cavendishsq.com

If you are wondering what the 40 B4 40 Dining Challenge is all about, please click here and all will be explained.





 

Friday 14 June 2013

40 B4 40-Café Shore

click image to enlarge
No.35: Café Shore (Sandbanks)

As the sun broke through the bedroom window on Sunday morning my head was slightly fuzzy. Saturday had been a glorious sunny day and we had celebrated by spending a late afternoon and early evening sampling an impressive selection of the wine and beer menu at The Cave. My son, Matthew found a friend in the special blend of Stella Artois 4, his fiancée Kayleigh got a taste for Sancerre, and my wife just downed everything that was put in front of her.

Not sure if we chose to move on, or if we were thrown out, but we then found ourselves in The Raft, drinking more beer. As you may expect, we were by now peckish, so we indulged in some tasty starters and great pizza’s in the courtyard garden.

The future happy couple were up bright and breezy Sunday morning to attend a church service and specifically, to meet the vicar, in St Stephens Church in Kingston Lacy. This is to be the venue for their wedding next year. My wife was also up, but still in the mumbling stage as she had not yet had her second cup of tea. We debated about going along to meet the vicar, but logistics with our two dogs proved tricky, and their ability to sing hymns was a bit suspect. My wife also though that it might not be a good move for the vicar to meet me just yet. So, we decided to meet them a bit later at The Sandbanks Hotel, the venue for their forthcoming wedding reception. The hotel is in a fabulous position on Poole Harbour with excellent facilities and a very impressive seafront vista.

After a good look around and being impressed by their choice of wedding venue, we wandered along the sandy beach in the sunshine for lunch at Café Shore.

The restaurant was extremely stylish and it was evident that someone had exceptional taste and design skills, not to mention a deep pocket.

Our table overlooked Poole Harbour through the wall of windows. the view was spectacular both inside and out.

It took a while to order our drink and starters, but when they eventually arived it was immediately evident that the kitchen was cooking with skill and using some lovely ingredients. Between us we enjoyed Salmon Tartare with Plantain Crisps, Asparagus with Poached Egg & Hollandaise Sauce, and finally, Tempura Prawns with Sweet Chilli Sauce.

It was a shame that the front of house team did not match the kitchen efforts, when we had to wait too long for our plates to be cleared and for our main courses served.  When they did arrive, they were again very good. We enjoyed; Thyme & Garlic Roasted 28 Day Aged Beef, Horseradish Yorkshire Pudding, Roast Potatoes & Seasonal Vegetables, Beer Battered Fish & Chips with Garden Peas & Tartare Sauce, and a Sea Bass dish. (Which was a replacement for the Black Bream on the menu.)

Our sweets were Lime Cheesecake with White Chocolate Ice Cream, Lemon Curd Pot with Shortbread Biscuit, and Dark Chocolate & Salted Caramel Tart with Crème Fraiche. We all voted them well placed on the 'Yummy scale!'.

Throughout our meal it was bemusing to watch how just about every member of the waiting team avoided eye contact and could not somehow see out table had people on it!

As the bill arrived Matthew & Kayleigh insisted on paying, which was rather nice after a tasty meal and lots of fun conversation.

At 2 Courses for £20 and 3 Courses for £25, the lunch was good value, and had the service matched the environment & the food, it would have been excellent. We will give it another try on another day.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Café Shore
10-14 Banks Road, Sandbanks, Poole, Dorset, BH13 7QB
The Sandbanks Hotel
15 Banks Road, Sandbanks, Poole, Dorset, BH13 7PS
www.sandbankshotel.co.uk

If you are wondering what the 40 B4 40 Dining Challenge is all about, please click here and all will be explained.

Saturday 8 June 2013

40 B4 40-East (Ventura at Sea)

No. 34: East (Ventura at Sea)

Three generations were off on a three night P&O cruise and life could hardly feel better. A short drive to Southampton, and then straight through the port gates to the drop off area. A quick check in, and our cases were taken from the boot next to be seen in our cabins, as our car keys were handed over for valet parking. The welcome from everyone was friendly and smiling, and these seemed people who actually enjoyed their job and were genuinely happy to help. A simple 20 yard walk into the terminal, up the escalator, through security and we were onboard Ventura. This is how simple cruising from Southampton is.

First stop, of course, was The Beach House Restaurant, - and the holiday had started!
My Wife, my Mum, my Son Matthew, and his lovely fiancée, Kayleigh, were soon surveying the tempting delights on offer, as we watched the tiny outlines of people below boarding and preparing the ship for our voyage.

As Matt & Kayleigh were tucking into lunch, they were still trying to comprehend the size and grandeur of the ship. Mum has cruised before, so she was concentrating on her prawns.
click image to enlarge
Over the next 3 days we would explore a number of the various restaurants for breakfast, mid-morning snacks, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and even a midnight buffet. (But not all, as we ran out of time and stomach capacity!) Room service was also available, but we never got that peckish!
My wife even seemed to like me, with no imminent threat of her wanting to push me overboard, so things were going pretty well.

I could write about so much; the great live entertainment, the quaint beauty of Bruges, the pleasure of sitting around the pool drinking Pina Colada’s in the sunshine overlooking St Peters Port Guernsey, the efficient and friendly crew, the fabulous food that is available 24 hours a day, the swanky bars, the laughter and great moments, and the warm glow of spending relaxed quality time with people you love. However, I am going to stick to one special meal that stood out amongst all others.

Throughout the ship, the quality of dining and snacks were of a high order everywhere, and a highlight were the curries served in the self-service restaurants. They had a real authentic feel, which was likely to be a reflection of the Indian members of the kitchen team. My wife could not comprehend how I could eat a curry, then pickings of various other personal favourites, and then finally a treacle sponge. But I guess she is the one missing out on the celestial delight of culinary grazing.
The ship had two fine dining restaurants for a small supplement; The White Room with a menu by Marco Pierre White, and East with the dishes created by Atul Kochhar.
Atul was the first Indian chef to be awarded a coveted Michelin star in Britain. He made his name, and was awarded his first Michelin star, in 2001 at London's acclaimed Tamarind restaurant. In 2007 he founded Benares, where he earned his second Michelin star in his own flagship fine dining Indian restaurant in Mayfair, London.

The White Room menu did not really excite us, but the menu at East certainly did. So, on the formal black tie evening, we booked a table and were greeted by a charming waitress with a warm personality and great sense of service and fun.

Some dishes on the menu looked familiar, but we were to discover that each had a twist and flavours that delighted the taste buds and mind. Top chef’s that put their names to restaurants are often a disappointment, this was not one of those occasions.

East is an Asian Fusion restaurant that features various dishes with Chinese, Japanese and Thai influences, and all recipes are created by master chef Atul Kochhar. The deep red and dark wood interior give it a distinctive Oriental feel and an intimate atmosphere. Quite an experience to feel like you are in Mayfair, yet actually cruising in the middle of the English Channel.
click image to enlarge
Our meal started with an unexpected complimentary Prawn Spring Roll, as we enjoyed explosive Singapore Sling and Rose Petal Martini cocktails.
The price of all drinks onboard was very reasonable, with cocktails at around £5 and a bottle of decent wine from about £15.
As you may expect, we were more than happy, so we ordered a bottle of light and cheeky Beaujolais wine to go with our starter course of Chiang Mai Pork (Braised Ribs marinated in Candied Ginger, Garlic and Chilli) and Thai Fish Cakes. The ribs simply jumped from the bone as the fork approached, and the tender meat was infused with a myriad of exotic spices.
For our main courses we had chosen the 24 Hour Slow Cooked Lamb Rendang, and Atul’s Signature Plate (Khmer King Prawns, Thai Green Chicken Curry & Lamb Korma), - nothing was as expected, as an explosion of contrasting flavours just kept revealing themselves, - pure delight!
To complete our meal we had the guilty pleasure of Deep Fried Banana with Vanilla Ice Cream and Warm Chocolate Fondue, and Sweet Rice Pudding with Mango. The meal and experience was a triumph at every level.
Our adventure on the seven seas was over far to quickly, and you know you have had a great holiday when you are a little sad to leave the place and people you have been spending precious time with.
We were a little sad, but extremely happy to have shared great memories on a wonderful cruise.

About Ventura
Ventura was launched in 2007 and is one of the largest cruise ships in the P&O Cruises fleet. It features 14 passenger decks, carries up to 3574 Passengers and has 1220 Crew.

She has a large choice of facilities with 7 bars, 11 restaurants/diners, casino, 4 swimming pools, a sports court, spa and theatre. For entertainment the ship has a theatre with full production shows, a cinema, two lounges for cabaret, comedy and dancing and even Metropolis, an atmospheric bar with a panoramic video wall brought to life by a different city skyline each evening.

-------------------------------------------------------------------
P&O Ventura
East - Atul Kochhar Restaurant
www.pocruises.com/cruise-ships/ventura/ship-overview

Benares
12a Berkeley Square House, Berkeley Square, Mayfair, London, W1J 6BS
www.benaresrestaurant.com

-------------------------------------------------------------------
If you are wondering what the 40 B4 40 Dining Challenge is all about, please click here and all will be explained.

Friday 10 May 2013

40 B4 40-The Mill at Gordleton

click image to enlarge
 No 33: The Mill at Gordleton

It was a glorious sunny day and we were on our way to lunch at The Mill at Gordleton, near Lymington. My wife at the wheel, friends in the back, things were looking good.

To beat the setting of The Mill at Gordleton is difficult at any time of the year, and on a hot spring day it is almost impossible.

We were greeted and asked whether we would prefer the Main Restaurant or The Terrace next to the river. No brainer really, and I had the sunglasses to prove it.

Only Colin and I went for starters, to accompany our respective pints of Grolsh and Thatcher’s cider. He had gone for the tempting Smoked chicken & sweetcorn chowder, the girls abstained, and I had gone for possibly my favourite starter of all, Twice baked soufflé, this time it had a twist, by including Fjordlings of Salisbury smoked salmon and horseradish. Oh yes, delicious!

As you may have seen in previous ’40 B4 40’s’, we always photograph our meals. However on this occasion, mainly due to us both being starving, we had tucked straight in.

It was only when I got a sharp fork stuck in my side, accompanied by the sweet words; “You have forgotten the photo dear”, that I realised it was far too late. How my wife displays such a sweet demeanour whilst attacking me ferociously I have no idea.

As we awaited the main courses, and I tried not to show the pain coming from my left side, we admired not just the immaculate gardens, ambient terrace and babbling river, but also the garden sculptures. The Mill has a number of fantastic local and national artists currently exhibiting their pieces in their beautiful grounds.

They have now added 'The Mill Art Walk', which is a mini tour around the grounds with details on each pieces exhibited and the artists who have kindly contributed them.

Our main courses were soon in front of us, and consisted of Breast of chargrilled free range chicken, olives, sun-dried tomato, artichokes, Pecorino cheese and a balsamic vinaigrette for my wife, two of us had; ‘Scampi’ (breaded medallions of monkfish) with hand cut chips, minted pea and lime crème fraîche, and Colin the Carnivore had a light summer meal of Rich steak and kidney pie with rosary roasted mids and glazed carrots. All were very well cooked, and you could taste the freshness of the ingredients, although I would have preferred Tartare Sauce to the alternative fish accompaniment.

The team at The Mill are very proud of the fact that they make everything in-house themselves, including bread, soups, sauces, ice creams and puddings. They also source local and organic produce including vegetables, free range eggs, local cheeses, New Forest seasonal venison and pork.

Each main course had been devoured and enjoyed, and my perforated side was slowly recovering with the aid of another pint. However, a new dilemma was now facing me. The pudding menu!

Having been mentally narrowing it down to three since seeing the menu an hour or so ago, I made another sacrifice to make a shortlist of two, but still could not decide on just one.

I decided to launch a charm offence on my wife, trying to persuade her to have a pudding (Of my choice of course!). Things like, ‘Go on, treat yourself’, “You can share mine” (That was a lie), “and other pathetic tactics like; “If you loved me you would have one”, were each tried in forlorn effort. Her smile remained enchanting, however her eye’s were darkening on each suggestion, and it was clear that unless I gave up a violent attacked would be on its way imminently. I needed a Plan B.

As we ordered, Tricia inadvertantly went for my very close second choice, the Pavlova with Lymington strawberries and Chantilly cream, and I had settled on the Chocolate Brownie with Tonka Bean Ice Cream and Hot Chocolate Sauce. As they arrived I persuaded Tricia to let me photograph her sweet due to the shadows of the beating sun. Plan B was underway. I arranged her sweet and took a great picture whist she chatted. Somehow when her plate returned to its rightful place in front of her, a couple of spoonfuls were missing. I don’t think she bought my explanation that the ducks had swooped across the table helping themselves. I am sure she tried to kick me, but thankfully, she only has little legs.

We have never been disappointed eating at The Mill, and it you dine or visit on a sunny day, it is one of those special New Forest moments.

The Mill at Gordleton Hotel Restaurant
Silver Street, Hordle, near Lymington, SO41 6DJ

If you are wondering what the 40 B4 40 Dining Challenge is all about, please click here and all will be explained.


Wednesday 3 April 2013

40 B4 40-Bluebird

No. 32: Bluebird, Lymington 

As we could not decide where to go and eat with our friends Colin & Tricia, we decided that Tricia could make it a surprise. 

Not only did we not know where we were going, but we did not anticipate we were also going back in time. 

click image to enlarge
A short drive to get there, and then even more miles covered looking for a parking space, we were eventually strolling through the cobbled streets at the foot of Lymington High Street. Charming as ever, but the biting wind had Colin & I walking at a pace not normally associated with our normal stroll. 

Our destination was The Bluebird Restaurant. Having passed by this quaint looking building many times, this was our first visit to dine. 

from the outside the Bluebird displays signs for its various offerings, part café, part restaurant and a B&B. Stepping inside I had visions of the 1980's. The tables & chairs were all made of wood, and the walls adorned with a mish-mash of pictures featuring racing drivers, sea and country scenes. 

A friendly greeting from the waiting team, and we were soon at our table. The laminated menus were certainly reminiscent of a café and the selection not to exciting, however the breakfasts looked good. 

click image to enlarge
The 'Specials Board' provided much more inspiration, with a great selection of fresh fish, homemade dishes, and a homemade pudding menu that was going to create an issue for me when it came to choosing.

It didn't take long for our drinks order to arrive, followed by the rolls, which were OK, but not homemade. The butter was in little foil wraps, a small pet hate of mine.

The food was to prove a lot better than the decor. For our starters my wife and Colin had tasty Calamari with Sweet Chili Mayonnaise, and my Deep Fried Goats Cheese with Pineapple Chutney was spot on. Both dishes came with a salad of mixed leaves, peppers, cucumber and carrot on the side of the plate, which raised a nostalgic smile.

Our main courses arrived and the main ingredients looked as good as they proved to taste. The girls and I had Grilled Whole Dover Sole with Lemon & Parsley Butter, and Grilled Halibut Fillet with Creamed Leak & Saffron Sauce.  Colin, being a major carnivore & offal eater, went for Liver & Bacon.  Each meal was fresh and well cooked.

The fish courses where normally served with new potatoes and vegetables. However, we all fancied chips, and the front of house team were happy to change our order. When the chips were served they were hot, crispy. and everything you want in a chip.  The vegetables were served in individual bowls and instantly bought back memories of how dishes were served a couple of decades ago. I really felt I should have been wearing flares, a tank top and platform shoes. Fortunately Colin was, so he felt right at home.

Time travel aside, the food had been very good and it was now time for sweet.

As much as I was being nice to my wife, offering her all sorts of inducements and even offering to put the bins out, she resolutely insisted she did not want a sweet. Of course, my real point was she ordered one for us to 'share'. On my last pleading attempt, I could see from the steely glint in her eyes that I was a nano-second from getting a fork in the eye.  This development encouraged me to abort my 'dual delight' mission.

It would have been easy to order six or so puddings from the comprehensive list of homemade delights.   However, my wife tends to torture me for several weeks with low fat food if I order more than one, so as a result only two puddings were ordered, but I never got a look in on Tricia's Forest Fruit Pavlova. She has perfected the art of speed eating when dining with me.

I have forgo the Apple & Rhubarb Crumble and creme brulée, and settled for the Chocolate Marquise, which was delicious.  Tricia's pudding was also sweet and tasty, or so I was told.  

As Colin was the day's nominate driver our alcohol intake was less than usual, however that will be rectified next time.  Well, it will be if I can convince my wife to drive.  Looks like I will have to make a concerted effort at a period of good behaviour.  Wish me luck.


Bluebird
5 Quay St Town Centre, Lymington SO41 3AS
www.bluebirdrestaurant.co.uk

If you are wondering what the 40 B4 40 Dining Challenge is all about, please click here and all will be explained.


Tuesday 26 March 2013

40 B4 40-Hibiscus

No. 31: Hibiscus, Mayfair, London

It was our company’s 10th Anniversary, so we decided everyone deserved a special day out. To do things in style we booked the private dining room at Hibiscus, a 2 Michelin Star restaurant owned by Chef Patron, Claude Bosi in Mayfair, London. The restaurant features in the Top 100 World’s Best Restaurants and is 8th in the Good Food Guide, so things were looking good for a gastronomic treat.
 
click image to enlarge
Not everything went as planned! The evening before I was struck down with a mystery bug, however not wishing to miss our special day I made it to our first watering hole; The Burlington Arms, in Old Burlington Street. The team were in good spirits and I did my best to numb the bug with alcohol whilst trying to keep my germs to myself.
 
We were soon on our way across Mayfair to Hibiscus. The restaurant was stylish yet minimalist. The private dining room was downstairs and the ideal size for our party of 12. Not long after arriving the wine was flowing and the homemade bread with both salted and unsalted butter was joined by a rather tasty cheese puff canapé. Things were not looking good as I was struggling to eat either. Coughing was not however proving a problem!
 
Next came an ‘amuse bouche’ of a pomegranate and hibiscus foam, sounds weird, but delicious I heard. The starters of Celeriac Risotto, Slow cooked Hens Egg Yolk, Pomelo Fruit, or Smoked Label Anglais Chicken & Leek Terrine, Smoked Grape Seed Emulsion & Chicken Liver Parfait looked delicious and we soon devoured by the team.
 
Sadly, I was struggling just to breathe, and then the unthinkable happened, I had to give up and admit the only place for me in bed. I made swift apologies and headed for home.
 
click image to enlarge
Although I was now missing it, I wanted the team to have a great party, and they did when they tucked into the main courses of Confit of Rabbit Leg, Mustard Crust, Jerusalem Artichokes cooked in Hay, Artichoke & Mustard Puree, or Roast Cornish Cod, Pomelo, Wild Mushroom Orzo, Langoustine & Parmesan Sauce. This was followed by a sweet of Iced Blood Orange Givre, Orange Polenta Cake or Vanilla Pineapple Rice Pudding, Candied Walnut.
 
Finally, I heard some amazing petit fours were served with coffee.
 
Next on the agenda was a visit to Mews of Mayfair for cocktails. After a few concoctions, the team headed for the Cabin Bar at Waterloo Station which became a little more crowded as our lot enjoyed a couple of night caps!
 
In the following week, everyone in the company was infected with the bug and the office looked like the Marie Celeste at times. However, all had enjoyed a good to day out, so it was worth it.
 
Next time I will make it to the end!

Hibiscus
29 Maddox Street, London, W1S 2PA
www.hibiscusrestaurant.co.uk

Mews of Mayfair
10 Lancashire Court, New Bond Street, London, W1S 1EY
www.mewsofmayfair.com

If you are wondering what the 40 B4 40 Dining Challenge is all about, please click here and all will be explained.





 

Friday 8 February 2013

40 B4 40-The Filly Inn

No. 30: The Filly Inn, Setley, Hampshire

click image to enlarge
An excuse for a lunch is a good thing. But, we didn’t have one but decided to go anyway, along with our friends C&T, and C, our neighbour, who was happy to have an excuse to get away from finish her PHD Thesis.

We decide to go to The Filly Inn, on the Lymington to Brockenhurst Road.  We have visited the New Forest pub a couple of times before, but this is our first visit since the premises has had a refit.
 
The first thing we noticed was a new 'Garden room' which looked bright and airy and a large decked area with table, which seemed ideal for a sunny day, which this wasn't!
 
The old pub had lost none of it character, the wooden beams still abounded and the old fire was alive and crackling.  the refit looked successful, as the pub was still warm & inviting, with a crisp clean feel. 
 
Surprisingly busy for a midweek lunchtime, and after the boys first pints of cider, we were tucking into our selections from the menu, which it was pleasing to see included a good selection of local New Forest produce. (The restaurant is a member of New Forest Marque and Hampshire Fare)
 
Our starters consisted of Homemade Ham Hock Terrine with Crusty Bread, Country Pate with Red Onion Marmalade, and some particularly tasty Garlic King Prawns.
 
Our Main courses ranged from a very meaty Oxtail special, to Steak & Ale Pie, New Forest Sausages with Mash & Onion Gravy, a light Chicken Casserole, and a massive Beef Burger with Cheese, Bacon and Skin-on Chips.
 
The ciders had continued to go down well, and my wife again weirdly found a sweet 'not necessary!?'  However, the rest of us felt that it would have been rude not to have tried some.  So, we soon demolished portions of freshly made Lemon Tart, a Apple & Cinnamon Crumble, and Chocolate Brownie with Vanilla Ice Cream. 
 
Whilst chatting, someone mention how they had heard of Balsamic Vinegar being served with Strawberries and Ice Cream.  No chance of strawberries in early February, but we did have ice cream.  The waiter was pretty bemused when I asked for the vinegar, particularly when he heard what I intended to do with it.  With a wry smile a little pot was soon on our table, and then onto to the ice cream.  Everyone had a taste, and the consensus was it was not bad at all. Strange thing food!

-------------------------------------------------------------------
The Filly Inn
Lymington Road, Setley, Brockenhurst, SO42 7UF | Tel: 01590 623449
www.thefillyinn.co.uk

If you are wondering what the 40 B4 40 Dining Challenge is all about, please click here and all will be explained.
 

Wednesday 30 January 2013

40 B4 40- L'Escargot

No. 29: L'Escargot, Soho, London 

The previous weeks had been insanely busy, so a Friday night up town was just the remedy.

click image to enlarge
As we arrived at Waterloo, along with our good friend Viv, we (they) decide to walk. As we entered Charing Cross I had my usual childish giggle at 'Herman The German's Hot Sausage Shop'. Several yards later I was in need of a drink, so I feigned a temporary paralysis. My wife simply took a big swing, and kicked me in the un-paralysed leg.  

Fortunately, Viv is a lot kinder, so we were soon at the bar of a trendy club near Covent Garden.  As I mused over how the bar girls outfits did not make them catch their death of cold, we were then approached by a bouncy barman who asked if we wanted doubles as it was 'Happy Hour'.  This threw the girls into turmoil, as they had already decided to have singles, trying to pace themselves for the night. Confusion then spread across Mr Bouncy's face, as he realised he had offered his 'Happy Hour' 15 minutes early. Singles it was then.

The walk still had a small way to go, and as we came into Old Compton Street my thirst suddenly returned. I slipped into an old Victorian pub, and the girls had no option other than to follow. As we ordered another round of drinks I noticed the other customers were quite male dominated, and a number of them were obviously 'very close friends'. 

click image to enlarge
Time for dinner, so we turned the corner and were soon at L'Escargot in Greek Street, Soho. The greeting was warm as we entered the sixteenth century former townhouse. As we were taken into the dining room all of the staff gave us a smile, and we were feeling pretty good when we arrived at our table in the ground floor restaurant, with mirrored walls and work by artists such as Miro and Chagall.

As we were limited on time before going to our booked West End show, we decided to go for the 'Menu Du Jour'. Three tasty choices for each course, and at £19.50 fabulous value. It really is amazing the great places you can eat for such reasonable prices.

The waiter was soon putting luscious fresh butter on the crisp white table cloth, and offering us hot homemade olive, white or brown rolls. As you may imagine, I tried all of them over the course of the meal.

For our first starters we enjoyed Mussels à la Marinière and Velouté of Beef et Tomatoes, which was a very tasty spiced beef soup. The sauce and juices from the mussels was delicious, and more rolls were of course required for the mopping up, pleasingly our attentive waiter was soon on hand with his bread basket.  It seemed wrong not to experience the Spécialité de la Maison of Escargots cooked & served in their shells, with garlic butter & parsley, so we also all shared a serving of six snails.

Our main course choices were all the same, Pork Loin Steak, Vichy Carrots, Pomme Purée and mushroom jus. The pork was possibly the most tender I have ever had, the portion was pretty large, the mash smooth & creamy and the sauce simply rich and divine. Top dish!

The girls were looking pretty happy as we continued to slurp our bottle of Fleurie. Wine is something you can often get caught on in London restaurant, but these guys had a wine list that was varied and pretty gentle on the wallet.

For sweet I went for Pear Tart Bourdaloue with Cardinal Sauce, my wife & Viv had the Selection of French Cheese.  What a result, as I got to grab half of my wife's cheeses as well.

Time was now running out, so we had no time for coffee. As a really nice touch, a tray of petit fours was still presented with our bill.  Normally if there were only the two of us I would be in heaven, as my wife 'doesn't like' chocolate. (What a weirdo!).  Sadly, Viv is totally the opposite, so I had a challenge on my hands. Finding the balance between being polite, and maneuvering to get the favourite one's is tough. My concern was soon confirmed as Viv took the truffle to her lips.  My helpful comments on how; 'A moment on the lips, is a lifetime on the hips' did not phase her.  We simply stared in to each other eyes like wild west gunfighters as our game of petit four roulette played out. 

The restaurant describes itself as 'Fine dining with affordable glamour', and I have to say they have it spot on. 

As we left, very full and satisfied, the staff again gave us warm smiles, and we all confirmed this is a restaurant for us all to return to.

Next stop was our West End show, Les Miserables. Wow, wow, wow.  We had memories of how good it had been when we saw it around fifteen years ago, but this time it was even more spectacular. The singing, the story, the set, everything was superb. Your insides seem to jump and dance, and your emotions explode to the extent that on leaving you feel fantastic and exhausted!

If you have not seen Les Miserables in the West End, do go, and oh, if you take in a pre-theatre meal at L'Escargot it will make your evening perfect. 

 ------------------------------

About L’Escargot
The building dates from 1741 and was once the private residence of the Duke of Portland. L’Escargot was opened in 1927 by George Gaudin who created the first restaurant in the UK serving snails. The snails were farmed in the restaurants basement kitchen!  Following a complete refurbishment in the 1980's, L’Escargot was hailed as the first of London's 'Designer Restaurants', with head chef, Martin Lam making L'Escargot the place to eat. Today the restaurant is owned by Marco Pierre White.

On leaving, we spotted a Blue Plaque, showing that Peter Cook has lived in the flat opposite, a bet those floors having seen some great party's!

L'Escargot 
8 Greek Street, Soho, London W1D 4EF
www.lescargotrestaurant.co.uk

If you are wondering what the 40 B4 40 Dining Challenge is all about, please click here and all will be explained.


Sunday 16 December 2012

40 B4 40-The Hand & Flowers - again!

click to enlarge
No. 28: The Hand & Flowers, Marlow

After finding an excuse to book a return visit to the excellent Hand & Flowers, my business meeting was cancelled at the last minute.

Having booked the restaurant over a month before, I had no intention of letting the table slip, so it was my wife's lucky day!

This is our second visit to Hand and Flowers in Marlow, Buckinghamshire. The restaurant is the first and only pub dining rooms to be awarded the coveted Two Michelin Stars, they are also the current AA Restaurant of the Year 2011-12.

The restaurants head chef and owner is Tom Kerridge, a former winner and judge on BBC’s ‘Great British Menu', and of course, our headline act from Milford on Sea Food Week 2012.

On arrival we were greeted with a complimentary glass of champagne from Tom, nice touch!

The menu was extraordinary, and choosing tricky.  Fortunately, having eaten here before, we knew whatever we chose was going to be an experience.

Before we had even chosen what we were going to eat, we were served with a cone of Whitebait, home made bread and pots of salt and pepper to season the home-made butter. Everything was off to a great start.

For starters I went for the Blow-torched Scottish Scallop with Warm Roast Chicken Bouillon, Morels, Nasturtium and Apple. My wife went for, Salmon Tartare with Poppy Seed Crackers.

Naturally, each had to be shared, but thankfully my share was greater.  The crispy apple with the scallops & nutty mushrooms was masterful.

Our main courses of slow Cooked Duck Breast with Savoy Cabbage, Duck Fat Chips and Gravy, and the other house speciality of Hand & Flowers Fish & Chips, kept the juices flowing. As I savoured the duck fat chips and amazing fish in batter, I was almost overwhelmed by the accompanying Pea Puree, which was certainly one of the best sides I have ever eaten.  Meanwhile my wife was going though a mix of emotions.  The duck was succulent, with a crispy glazed skin and jus that had her in heaven.  Worries appeared as she became full, yet she battled on, and on, fighting her expanding food baby, until she had completed her meal.  Afterwards she sat almost in complete silence, with a silly grin, just saying 'that was the best, ...ever'.

My dining companion was now just a quiet Michelin Man as I ordered sweet.  A hard one, yet I resisted the Tonka Bean Panna Cotta.  I know it is delicious, but I was up for something new, so it was the Banana Soufflé with Gingerbread Custard and Yoghurt Ice Cream. Wow!

Over coffee and a Bailey's I enquired if they had a fork lift to get my wife to the car, but I had to settle for throwing her over my shoulder.

Tom says that he just 'cooks great food, simply'.  I think he is wrong, he 'cooks great food, in amazing combinations'. This is definitely a place to really experience great food, cooked by a master with true passion.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

RAC Club, Pall Mall, London - Great Gallery Restaurant

Sadly, a couple of weeks ago I made a 'wifeless' visit to the RAC Club, which meant that it did not qualify for our 40 B4 40 Challenge. Invited by a customer, who was also a member, and accompanied by Alistair, we had the pleasure of dining in the Great Gallery Restaurant.

The restaurant had reportedly had a recent £1m makeover, and it was spectacular. The food was also excellent, but taking pictures of the plates was not really the order of the day.

A later tour of the club's facilities was similarly impressive. We particularly enjoyed the Long Bar, but for probably longer than we should have!

Having started the day with coffee in The Ritz, followed by our leisurely RAC lunch, we then moved on for a tour of numerous London bars. Arriving home from lunch at around 11.30pm, it is suffice to say, we had enjoyed our day!

www.royalautomobileclub.co.uk

------------------------------------------------------------------------

The Hand and Flowers
126 West Street, Marlow, SL7 2BP
www.thehandandflowers.co.uk

If you are wondering what the 40 B4 40 Dining Challenge is all about, please click here and all will be explained.

 

Saturday 24 November 2012

40 B4 40-Gilberts Restaurant

No. 26: Grim’s Dyke Hotel-Gilberts Restaurant

The Grim's Dyke Hotel is a carefully restored country house renowned for its special musical events, and has been featured in many films over the years.
 
click image to enlarge
Just 12 miles from the centre of London and within easy reach of Heathrow, the magnificent former country residence of Sir William Gilbert (of Gilbert & Sullivan fame) is set in over 40 acres of beautiful gardens and woodlands.
 
The 2 AA rosette restaurant prides itself on serving their own seasonal produce, and the Head Chef Daren Mason has a style of modern British food having trained under Gary Rhodes.
 
Our meal had been in the diary for a few weeks, as my wife & I wanted to take my Mum for a Sunday treat. Like many, I never get to see my Mum anywhere near as much as I would like. Everytime I do, it is always enjoyble and fun.
 
The Grim's Dyke Hotel is without doubt an impressive building and the welcome was warm and formal. In fact, the Gilberts Restaurant dining room was a bit of a throw back. The furniture was traditional, and the numerous waiting staff were all attired in formal black and white.

The menu looked spot on, and we went for a collection of Welsh Rarebit and Chicken Liver Parfait starters. The Welsh Rarebit was a surprise as it consisted of a brioche base, oyster mushroom and a small amount of melted cheese. Not as expected, but tasty never the less. The Chicken Liver Parfait was good.
 
We all went for the same main course, Rib of Beef with Roast Potatoes & Yorkshire Pudding. The beef looked great, and my wife loved it. Sadly, my Mum and I had asked for ‘medium to well done’, and either the waitress had not told the kitchen, or the chef had decided he knew what we wanted better than us! He was wrong. We watch a similar occurrence on to other tables, which seemed unnecessary and totally avoidable. When I asked for some more gravy the waitress was a bit lost, until she said; “Do you mean jus?”. I didn’t, but I couldn’t be bother to explain that they were the same, other than you get more when it is called gravy!

The sweets looked interesting, and I thought it was my lucky day when my wife had more or less had no option to have a sweet, due to it being a three course set lunch. However, my luck backfired, as even I could eat the duo of sweets. The Lavender & Almond Pannacotta was just totally wrong, and the Apple & Ginger Pudding with Ice Cream was sadly boring. Even I get to a stage where you consider the calorie intake not worth it. I am pleased to say my Mum’s Pistachio Creme Brulee was fine.

By reputation, and the full dining room, this was obviously a good place to eat. We had caught it on a poor day, and either the head chef was not in, or they trying just that little bit too hard.

Sitting in the lounge having a coffee, Mum asked us if ‘we watch Downton Abbey, we didn’t. “No, nor do I” she replied. Priceless!

As always, we thoroughly enjoyed our time together. I am sure everyone sees their Mum as special, but I am lucky to have one who has always been there for me and I love her to bits. If only I had more time.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Grim’s Dyke Hotel | Gilberts Restaurant
Old Redding, Harrow, Middlesex, London

www.grimsdyke.com
www.grimsdyke-hotel-harrow.com

If you are wondering what the 40 B4 40 Dining Challenge is all about, please click here and all will be explained.
 
 

Tuesday 13 November 2012

40 B4 40-Matahari

No. 25: Matahari, Guildford

click image to enlarge
My wife had a ‘girlie weekend’ in Milford on Sea last week, and apparently the three girls thought it was great fun doing nails, playing with hair and watching films. They even managed to squeeze in fish & chips from Mr Pink’s on Friday, Saturday lunch at La Perle, and Sunday lunch at The Marine.

I and the dogs, had in the meantime been banished to our place in Guildford, under instructions to 'behave like a grown up', and to eat a list of lovingly pre-prepared food.
 
Naturally, all of my wife’s instructions were forgotten as soon as she left, as I ordered a curry that lasted two days, left all the lights on, kept the toilet seat up and didn't put anything in the dishwasher.  On returning from seeing the new James Bond film with Matthew, my son, I proceeded to spend the Saturday evening running around in my pants, and jumping on the settee as I chased the dogs pretending they were the baddies.
 
When the girls returned from Milford, our mate also cadged a lift for a flying visit. For the purpose of this story, and anonymity from village friends of his pregnant wife, he will be known as ‘X’.
 
When they arrived early Sunday evening we had a couple of civilised beers whilst deciding where to eat for the evening. Having ‘X’ as our guest, the Matahari, our favourite Guildford restaurant was quickly decided upon. The Matahari's 'Fusion-Cuisine' is both unique and distinctive, with an emphasis on Malaysian cookery, beautifully blended with Thai, Chinese, Japanese sushi, and other exotic arrays of delicacies with South-East Asian influence.
 
Before going to eat, the three of us had another swift beer in Pews Bar, one the last remaining original public houses of Guildford. The old building has great bulging 17c walls, a narrow undulating staircase for the brave wanting to visit the toilet, and a cobbled alleyway leading to one of the many hidden courtyards in the town.
 
We were soon across the road in Matahari. Set in one of Guildford’s oldest buildings the two floor restaurant is quirky, with low beams, wavy wooden floors, and great charm. Our friendly waiter greeted me by name, which made my wife rightly suspicious that I visited even more times than she knew.
 
It did not take long to make our choices, and we were soon tucking into the Platter of Mixed Starters, accompanied with the first of a few bottles of Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais. We had avoided the Japanese options, as cold fish and rice really isn’t what I consider a pleasure. The Onion Baby Ribs were simply outstanding, The Salt & Pepper Squid, and Chicken Satay mouthwatering, all enjoyed with Mini Vegetable 'Popiah' which added a bit of crunch and spice with the chilli dip.
 
As we gabbled on about seaside village life our banquet of main course arrived. Mongolian Chicken, tender chicken cooked in a very tasty & creamy slightly spicy black pepper peanut buttery sauce, Sizzling Vietnamese Sesame Pork, served sizzling hot, with a tantalizing Vietnamese sauce, topped with a dash of cream, Chef’s Special Claypot Coriander Beef Curry, tender beef slices marinated with spices & wrapped in lotus leave, served in a simmering claypot of creamy coconut & coriander flavoured curry, Fried Rice with Egg, and Spicy Vegetarian Rice Noodles, spicy rice noodles fried with beansprouts, Chinese leaves, pepper strips, mushrooms baby corns, eggs & onions, garnished with crispy shallots.
 
As we smiled and ate, ‘X’ overheard the next table talking about ‘vajazzle’s’.  Innocently he asked what they were, and quick as flash, my embarrassed wife changed the conversation. When ‘X’ asked the waiters they were niether able to understand or help him.
 
My wife had been in a playful mood all evening and was by now engaged in a text conversation on her mobile phone. Soon this became very surreal, as the mobile conversation became five way. We were communicating ridiculous one liners with an old friend, Dave, who was in The King’s Head having a friendly drink with Nikki, who had just returned from Milford with my wife. Dave had obviously enjoyed most of his day in the pub, having been left to fend for himself with his girlfriend in Turkey on business.
 
For sweet we ordered ‘Goreng Pisang’, deep-fried banana balls in batter, trickled with honey syrup, served with ice-cream. As she was not eating this, my wife was busy describing our pudding to Dave by text.   He in turn wanted some, and a rendezvous was agreed at The White House by the river Wey.   Sensibly, Nikki poured Dave in a taxi and went home.
 
At The White House, ‘X’ was still on a quest to find the meaning of his new word, which I have to say is not the best way to introduce yourself to the barman.  We were doing our best to ignore him.
 
Dave now with us, was devestated that the promised ‘Goreng Pisang’ was nowhere to be seen, it had been eaten by us instead.  In no time Dave was busy recalling his day's events, and 'X' was still slightly bemused and dazzled by the bright lights of the town.  The conversation turned to even more drivel as our table worked our way through a weird selection of mulled wine, Bailey’s and Guinness. 
 
In the cab home my wife for some inexplicable reason thought it was fun to pinch Dave’s bingo wings constantly, he of course screamed like a girl and shoot up his path when thankfully released from the dangerous& painful confines of the taxi.
 
Once back, the home bar was open, and a rather pleasant Janneau VSOP brandy was enjoyed with coffee before putting another fun night to bed.
 
Footnote: Breakfast next morning was enjoyed at Cote Bistro, Guildford. Amazingly, for a chain they offered a fabulous choice and the quality was unexpectedly high. So high in fact, it had to be one of the best Full English’s I can recall for quite a time. The daytime & evening menus are also full of a wide variety of French classics at pretty good prices. As they have many restaurants around the country, could be one worth trying out.
 
-------------------------------------------------------------------

www.matahariguildford.co.uk

www.cote-restaurants.co.uk/Cote_Guildford.html

If you are wondering what the 40 B4 40 Dining Challenge is all about, please click here and all will be explained.