Tea Fit for a Queen

•June 9, 2012 • Leave a Comment

It could be considered discourteous of a lady to turn down an invitation for afternoon tea. Especially on a Sunday. A day to which indulgence is overlooked and all is forgiven until 9am the following Monday morning. Unforgivable. I further think of it as an offence not to engage in afternoon tea as much as possible. Where offered, and offered well. It’s simply ours for the taking.

ImageAs my own personal salute to the Queen’s 50 years on the throne, I decided to raise a china teacup over afternoon tea at Kettner’s, Soho. A rather obvious choice when their offering has been earmarked as ‘tea fit for a queen’. If it’s good enough for Lizzie, then it was a valid choice for my four day weekend.

As a menu that only runs at the weekend, (Friday to Sunday from 1.30pm until 4.30pm) it certainly has captured London’s attention. Set in the beautifully maintained nineteenth century Georgian townhouses, the atmosphere in the recently refurbished pudding bar was vibrant. Families, couples and friends gossiped between the subtle clatter of antique 1930s crockery and friendly waiting staff babble. The way a Sunday afternoon should be.

ImageAs we slid into our seats, after gawping at the oversized rose tinted meringues and grand Victoria sponges on a truly magnificent cake spread table, we removed our wet jackets, and dispelled all prior grumbles at the never-delivering-when-required British weather and directed all attention to this timeless British tradition. Exquisitely put together sandwiches, fat-fuelled clotted cream piled high on jam spread scones and an assiette of desserts to leave you blinking in excitement of where to start, all crammed colourfully onto a three tiered wire cake stand. Effortlessly elegant and deviously mischievous.

Unable to partake in any alcohol, I begrudgingly declined the Gobilliard, Baron de Marck Champagne and array of delicious tea-based cocktails, and turned my focus to the tea selection. The disappointment quickly evaporated with the extensive list of fine fair trade leaves on offer, supplied by the London centric Rare Tea Company. After an extremely well educated introduction from our classically pinafored monochrome waitress, my guest and I opted for the Jasmine Silver Tip and Rare Fruit Blend.

Our bottomless glass teapots steamed with floral tones; the rare fruit blend specifically ripe with oranges and camomile. I was delighted to note these artisan loose leaf teas are direct from the farms rather than the brokers, and advised the Jasmine was great for stomach digestion, which was perfect considering the banquet of beauty laid out before us.

ImageAs soothing old school jazz filled the air, my companion and I made headway into the succulent cucumber, smoked salmon and cream cheese, ham and English mustard and egg and cress fingers, on an assortment of colourful crust-less breads. We followed with a perfect palette cleanser; an innovative rhubarb jelly with pomegranate foam and minty shreds.

Considering the cakes were all dainty mini versions of their usual full-figured selves, my guest and I marvelled at how filling our afternoon spread had become. We obviously persisted (as suggested earlier it would have been terribly rude not to) through the treats made freshly onsite that day.

The chocolate biscuit – as plain as that sounds – was a beautiful surprise, oozing in the centre and rich with many calories. We particularly enjoyed the charming miniature Chelsea buns and melt-in-your-mouth treacle sponge in between sips of our refreshing yet light never-ending tea.

We concluded with the old English trifle, stunningly presented in a delicate shot glass, before taking a well earned break ahead of even acknowledging the homemade scones. Standing proud on the top tier, elbow-to-elbow with devilish clotted cream and sweet sweet strawberry preserve. The ultimate dream team.

Trying to leave Kettner’s after such a luxury proved challenging, however, if Queen Elizabeth could brave the rain and winds for the jubilee pageant, we could take the hit after a divine afternoon definitely ‘fit for a queen’.

It would take more than the rain to remove the smiles on our faces and bliss in our bellies.

 

Kettner’s

29 Romilly St

Soho, London

www.kettners.com

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Leek and Stilton Soup Session

•March 1, 2012 • Leave a Comment

ImageAfter a busy morning of meetings, it came as quite the surprise when I finally made it to my desk to be greeted by an extraordinarily large leek. Quite a beauty. Award winning if I may.

I laughed, immediately guessing the connection to the Welsh symbolic vegetable, and the fact that other than today being a gloriously sunny ‘Spring-is-nearly-here’ day, it is also March the 1st, St David (the patron saint of Wales)’s Day.

After traipsing my giant leek around the shops after work, I made it home and decided something needed to be done about this fattened up treat and opted for a heartwarming home favourite, leek and stilton soup. Yes, cheese always seems to feature somewhere, slight infatuation.

I headed off to our supermarket with my ingredients list (to serve six):

  • 8 leeks (washed, trimmed and finely chopped in a food processor) – NB. I had 6 plus my giant
  • 2 sticks of celery (chopped)
  • 50g/2oz butter – I went for Sainsbury’s finest – naughty.
  • 1 tbsp light olive oil
  • 1 large baking potato (peeled and diced)
  • 3 pts vegetable stock
  • ¼ pt/150ml single cream – on offer tonight to 9p. Get in.
  • 8oz/225g stilton (crumbled)
  • Sea salt and ground black pepper

ImageWhen I got back I was lucky enough to have an eager kitchen assistant Kate, who helped me clear some space and get our tunes on. We laid out our ingredients in true ‘ready steady cook’ style, and began with the leeks. We chopped the root end off and sliced the top of the body before the leafing, and diced the leek into bits. After doing all 8 (7 in my case) we threw them into a bowl and hand processed them. Boy did we cry. Apparently leeks are onions. Really bad ones. I suggest you make this with your own Kate, so you can take it in turns to cry, eat crisps and dip and then swop and process. Also take your makeup off, for your eyeliner WILL run.

We then threw the deliciously naughty butter and olive oil into a deep pan, before slopping in the shredded leek. This simply sweated over the hob (with our makeshift cover) for 5 minutes before we added the stock and finely diced potatoes.

ImageWe have since left it simmering for 30 minutes while I type this and we munch on nachos and flavoured dips.. perks of a drawn-out process.

ImageReturning to the hob and the aroma filling downstairs is brilliant. Literally our whole house smells of leeks. Happy St David’s Day all. For our final touches we simply added the crumbled stilton, trying not to steal any, with the cream to the stewed slop. We split the mixture and processed it one final time before sneaking a spoonful. No word of lie it’s divine. Rich and creamy. But by no means healthy.

Thank you Trish for such an amazing leek.

Dydd Gŵyl Dewi Hapus.

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The Ship’s Bloggers Lunch

•January 28, 2012 • Leave a Comment

I never need a reason to pay the team down at Ship Wandsworth a visit. That in itself is enough. However, when a bloggers feast with complementing wines and an array of fantastic personalities was offered my way I couldn’t refuse.

On a sunny but crisp 14th of January, I arrived at the Ship to be greeted with what has become a signature treat, the London famous Ship’s scotch egg. Crisp on the outside, runny in the middle. Delicious. Barely had the segment passed my lips and the grinning Oisin Rogers (GM) was offering me a welcome glass of their house prosecco; the Donna Trevigiana. Not even 1pm and we were drinking, yet this light bodied, highly acidic pear and peach sparkling was the perfect palette cleanser before launching into our first course.

The newest section of the restaurant was filled with various bloggers, about 35 in total, all with an insatiable interest in the London food scene. The Ship has followed many of these blogs with excitement over the years and it’s been interesting to note the influence they have on other diners and even the restaurants themselves menus.

I was sat with Ed (@RocketandSquash), Mr Noodles (@eatlovenoodles), Gina (@Gi_Nav), Lee (@Lee_Hawkins) and my good friend Dave from the online restaurant reservation company Livebookings (@Davedoesldn). A great mix of people and therefore interesting opinions when trialling the taster plates that were flying out from the Ship’s pass. For starters, we shared;

Red Onion Soup, Cheese Crôute

Foie Gras and Chicken Liver Parfait, Rum Soaked Baby Figs, Toasted Brioche

Scallops with Fennel Purée, Crisped Fennel, Garlic Chives

Grilled Lamb Cutlet, Spiced Tomato and Yoghurt Dressing

Baked Black Sticks Blue Mushroom Torte, Truffle Rösti, Creamed Spinach

Washed down with a Jean Marc Brocard, 2007; the king of Chardonnay from the heart of Burgundy.

My starter of choice at the Ship has always been the signature creamy foie gras, however the old favourite has since been enhanced with new elements. Gone is the bright green crunch of crumbled pistachios and instead you are treated with intense flavour from the intoxicated figs. What a winner.

The lamb cutlet would be my other stand out starter, where the medium rare meat fell off the bone and the spiced tomato side salad with yoghurt dressing ticked a new flavour box to what the Ship is known for. Always upping their game, Head Chef Shaun Harrington persistently pushes new dishes and interesting taste/ presentation combinations.

By the time I’d finished my share of these five plates, I was starting to wish I’d worn forgiving trousers, with enough room to fill the pockets with extra portions to take home. My stomach was approaching contentment, yet we still had mains to come. It was time for some pacing. A Ship bloggers lunch is not for the faint hearted.

The next course introduced;

Guinea Fowl, Truffled Mash, Sprouting Broccoli, Wild Mushroom Jus

Chargrilled Beef Burger with Cheese, Pickled Cucumber and Fries

Parsnip, Tomato and Goat’s Cheese Gratin, Jerusalem Artichoke, Chestnut Mushroom, Spinach Fricassée

Seared Plaice, Parma Ham, Poached Leeks, Samphire, Champagne Sauce

Braised Pork and Cider Pie, Mustard Glazed Carrots

This time accompanied by Paso del Sol’s easy drinking Chilean Merlot.

The burger is an obvious favourite at the Ship, and worth the investment in time and resources at getting it spot on. The image speaks for itself and literally tastes just as good.

The plaice wrapped in parma ham was a treat and became a table favourite, with the group eagerly clearing those plates before sharing out the remains of the others.

At this point most would have handed in the towel and admitted defeat, yet the thought of something sweet was desirable, even if with eyes bigger than our bellies.

I had my heart set on the chocolate fondant, which was as you would expect; deliciously gooey in the middle with a surrounding rich sponge. The others were definitely taken by the refreshing passion fruit panacotta with coffee short bread and I noted a current restaurant favourite the traditional treacle tart with stem ginger ice cream even made an appearance. Presentation spot on, portioning always generous and the accompaniment a clever derivative from an expected standard.

Often content just to finish a meal with a dessert wine rather than pudding itself, the sweet nectar that Osh introduced us to didn’t disappoint; All Saints Rutherglen Muscat – hailing from down under.

But our feast didn’t stop here, to round off what had become a perfect afternoon filled with great conversation and even better gastronomic delights, a large cheeseboard was delivered to our table, completed with in-house chutney, grapes and crackers. Divine. Spoilt with the ten year old tawny port that gurgled to the top of our 100ml glasses, we sighed with satisfaction and pondered how any of us would be able to transport our gorged bodies homeward.

Thank you to Osh, Gail and the Ship team (as well as all the lovely bloggers) for a truly well thought out and well delivered event.

(A further thank you to Rosana McPhee (@Rosana_McPhee) for her stunning photography taken on the day).

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Spare a little time for ‘you’ this Christmas

•December 9, 2011 • Leave a Comment

If, like me, you have an ever-extending family that impacts directly on your Christmas spending budgets, I grant you permission to take five minutes out from the pressure of ‘getting it right’ with your gifts and put yourself in the festive picture. Starting with that all important Christmas party..

Most of us at this point in the year can’t justify a flamboyant expenditure on Karen Millen’s latest perfect party piece. The next option;  ASOS of course.

It didn’t take me long to find a chic LBD suitable for a night in front of my Board of Directors as well as fitting the racy 007 Casino Royale theme. High neck and an undeniable curve clincher, the backless element did the flirting, yet the fabric descending below the knee retained a lady’s elegance. And a bargain at just £30!

Set off in gold with a festive footwear staple that Dorothy would even consider swapping her glittery reds for, as Sam Sparro once sang, you really can’t go wrong with a bit of Black and Gold. This DP heel I’ve customised and snipped off the ankle strap to make a more personal dainty court. So far they’ve been a December favourite, that a few of my nearest and dearest may have shamelessly replicated.

Someone once said that first impressions can be never be overlooked, and that a girl who’s made an effort with her nails and hair- won’t go too far wrong. Obviously this overlooks bad manners and poor conversation, but it’s definitely a good place to start. This Christmas add a little sparkle to your nails with OPI’s gold ‘Glitzerland’. The first glitter nail polish that is thick enough to layer up without a base colour, and actually chip resistant. Nails and shoe match = festive win.

As for hair, I’ve fallen into the frenzy of lifting my long locks into a neat bun on the crown of my head using what I can only call a ‘donut sponge bun thingy’. It’s genius. I have really fine (as in skinny) hair, yet the sponge gives the fixed illusion of a thicker bouffant. Lightly backcomb the front sections of hair that frame your face, before pulling the bulk back into a high ponytail through the donut and tuck hair under the base, before pinning to secure. Spray with Schwarzkopf Professional Silhouette Colour Brilliance Hairspray. I haven’t braved a different spray since our initial introduction back in university (Cave Girls Netball Social a la 2005). Fantastic hold with no sign of product. Beautiful.

For the face, I suggest a quick makeup aisle dash to purchase a good eye brightener,  like Benefit’s Eye Bright that’ll mount your mischievous glint with a soft pink edge. Then follow with a swish on your upper lid with a dark charcoal liner, before securing Eyelure’s ‘107’ false eyelashes as close to your lashline as possible. Blend your lashes with the fakes using a couple of coats from your magical mascara wand. Voila! And a more natural look than you’d expect!

Continuing with the simplistic black and gold theme add a shimmer to your cheeks using Ten, again from the trusty Benefit counter. After creating shadow by bronzing beneath the bone take advantage of the additional fairy pink in the box and dust across the bone to highlight and define.

I give you two options for the lips. For the bolder among you, try a racy red from Maybelline’S 24 hour stay collection, 510 Red Passion, that once dry will not lift from your lips on ANY surface. I warn, you may still have it on in the morning.. but who’s complaining? For a softer lip try 615 Soft Taupe, that will flatter your glistening cheeks and leave your fluttering eyes to pull in the stares.. well if your dress hasn’t already..

Finish off with a tease of your preferred scent to the nape of your neck, simplistic jewellery and a small black clutch..

Looking good, not feeling guilty, mince pies and Malbec optional.

Happy Christmas x

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The Perfect Sunday – River Cafe, London.

•August 4, 2011 • 1 Comment

I couldn’t pick a better restaurant for a family Sunday lunch. However I wasn’t with my family, and there was no chance of expecting a typically British traditional roast. But still my opening statement remains.

My first experience of Rose Gray and Ruth Rogers’ River Cafe was perfect, without any exaggeration. It was July’s Italian Club and as a special treat we went to celebrate two members’ birthdays. (Italian club is a once a month meeting of chirpy London foodies, all with an interest in exploring the capital’s Italian food scene.)

This particular Sunday; July was smiling at us with 25 degrees and clear skies, and we all arrived cheerily in what felt like Mr
McGregor’s garden clashed into 2011 with a modern sixth form college block.

After initial greetings, giggles and a quick birthday debrief, we decided to begin with River Cafe’s signature cocktail, a Rossini
(prosecco with fresh strawberries). We all agreed that this was delicious and ever-so-easy-to-drink and conversation tailed to this being the perfect beverage to toast at a wedding. (And also get extremely sloshed on, without noticing, at said wedding.)

Menus had arrived, complete with easy on the eye waiters and waitresses who delivered our bread, Italian oils, vinegars and accompanying water. With prices at a restaurant high we hoped taking a waiter home in a goody bag was part of the deal, and quickly put our dibs in on our favoured choices.

Focusing back on the beautifully fonted menu (which at a later date I purchased for a work related project) we decided to get a range of antipasti and primi to share, but then choose our own main, all opting
differently so we could sample a larger range.

We began with Fritto Misto con Zucchini, Fiore e Melanzane (basically lightly battered vegetables) a great appetiser for what became a supremely tasty feast. This taster paired with Calamari Ai Ferri (chargrilled squid with fresh red chilli and rocket) reminded me of my year living in Spain, simply from the tapas-esque small plates, which were light on the stomach but a dream on the palate.

Following our antipasti, we launched straight into three primi (pasta) dishes which included Rotolo Ai Funghi (fresh pasta roll stuffed with summer girolles, spinach, buffalo ricotta, thyme and parmesan), Penne Con Pomodoro (penne with fresh tomatoes, traditional balsamic, basil, butter and pecorino) and Tagliatelle con Vitello (hand cut fresh pasta with slow-cooked
veal, pancetta, rosemary, lemon peel and thyme).

Having favoured the veal fresh pasta dish when selecting, it was the simplicity yet beautifully sweet flavoured penne that actually stole the primi round. The vegetarian and veal plates were superb, but the tomatoes in the penne were unlike any I’d ever tasted and the delightful waiter even went into great detail of how they produced such a high end product (chef secret I’m afraid). Much of the vegetables andherbs used are grown on site (or should I say campus) and the idyllic day we experienced really enhanced the beauty of such a carefully organised garden. Said waiter continued to flirt with our group and brought over complimentary Crostini Misti with Chicken Livers, tomato, tarasco and lardo di colonato. We felt ridiculously spoilt.

The mains were all priced around the £30+ mark, and options were snapped up before I had barely read the first line. Where I would never usually end up with a seafood dish for a main, I took a gamble as all the best meat dishes had gone to an Italian Club comrade. I chose the Triglia Arrosto (whole red mullet cooked with bay leaves, lemon and garlic with zucchini trifolati) and it didn’t disappoint. The fish was rich in colour as it was in taste. It slid off the bone and had a tender texture. As a big fan of lemon and garlic, the flavourings were delicious and I polished off the majority of the fish before even attacking the soft green zucchini trifolati. Even after so many previous plate shares, and taster bites from my friends’ mains, I still managed to clear the plate, impossible not to when taking the price and quality into consideration. This really was as special a treat as my Heston ‘Dinner’ visit earlier this year.

As plates were cleared we cast our eye over the instantly produced dessert menu. With much to choose from, I surprisingly craved
sweetness and took longer than usual deliberating my next course.

The £9 bowl of cherries was the talk of the table, especially when a bowl went past to a nearby couple on a date- and the lady in
question picked at no more than five, before leaving the barely touched extravagance ignored to the side.

I finally made a choice, based on if I were to splash out any further it had to be on my current favourite trend; salted caramel ice-cream (or Gelati Caramello if speaking with true Italians). Having never been a massive ice-cream fiend (not one of those crying into my Ben and Jerry’s types) so my new love for salted caramel ice-cream has astonished me somewhat, but
who’s complaining? Even for two scoops at £8 a bowl, I most certainly wasn’t. And if there’s to be next time, it most certainly will be the Ribes Nero (Blackcurrant) as having tried someone else’s I almost (ALMOST) had dessert envy.

By this point it was late afternoon and we were all ready for a Sunday afternoon nap in the sun. The only thing for it was coffee and the group rounded up such a pleasant experience with a variety of Italian strong coffees, yet I went for the more sleepy fresh peppermint tea. We were so full. And so happy with our day.

The River Cafe is clearly a high-end favourite as on leaving, the waitress’ voice carried that Olivia Newton-John no less was on the
phone and waiting to make a booking. We all giggled at our extravagance and waddled down the riverside path, basking in the heat and rubbing our swollen bellies. I wholeheartedly recommend you replicate this trip. It makes any occasion an OCCASION.

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An Education in Millinery

•July 4, 2011 • Leave a Comment

When I first met Katherine Elizabeth, the award winning London based milliner, I was surprised at how down to earth and humble she was about her craft. I knew she had worked with legendary designers John Galliano, Stephen Jones and House of Dior, and that her clientele comprised of the likes of Dita Von Teese, Henry Holland and Lily Allen. However it was only when I delved deeper into the precision of the couture millinery process that I realised quite how talented and patient Miss Katherine Elizabeth actually is.

With the royal enclosure at Ascot in mind, I was looking for a hat ‘all the more special’ to compliment a ruched shouldered, simple yet bold electric blue chiffon tiered dress. Colours for matching handbag and shoes were dependant on the outcome of Katherine’s creativity and the tones she felt would work best with my skin and hair for such a bright statement blue.

Our first meeting was a consultation back in March, when I presented Katherine with the intended dress for her to note the exact shade, detailing and fabrics. I was greeted with chocolates and champagne and felt immediately at ease in Katherine’s boutique studio, surrounded by delicate projects in progress, feathers and sample materials.

We discussed the colours we felt would best go with my light blonde locks against the blue of the dress and mulled over shocking neon shades to be in line with 2011’s spring/ summer’s main trend. Katherine sketched as we spoke, outlined potential shapes and educated me with fabrics and decorative detailing that would give the ultimate finish. I left the first consultation effectively decided on diamond shape blue hat, which would have a quill in another distinct colour and perhaps feather and beading detail. The additional colours were to be a surprise on my next visit.

My second appointment saw the hat at its halfway stage. Katherine had used the fabric sinamay, made from dried banana leaves, to create the intended diamond shape ruched up with stitches to give a ruffled uneven texture. In order to give the hat stringency she had placed a wet cloth on top of three layers of the sinamay and ironed over the top, letting the heat adhese the layers together and form a rigid structure.

At this stage Katherine explained that my hat was too high/ tall and the balance wasn’t quite right. She further explained the moulding needed; pinching the hat in various areas to show me her exact intentions. I was then shown delicate Chinese pheasant feathers in beautiful shades of yellow, gold and mustard that were to overlap a sunshine yellow quill, all blending perfectly with the blue and would be easy to match in exquisite jewellery for any high end event.

All that remained when I left my second consultation was the edging in the same sinamay and a backing base to attach it firmly to my head. We discussed Swarovski crystals in gold, to adorn the base of the hat, leading up to the start of the quill and then covering said part of the quill with the feathers. Katherine proudly showcased her extensive collection of ethically-sourced guinea fowl feathers, baby ostrich and a particularly fluffy speckled one that I fell in love with (and ended up being the focal feather). It really was the ultimate education in millinery.

My final visit to Katherine’s quirky yet cleverly organised studio in Farringdon was my favourite. I was excited to see the finished outcome and also discuss the final techniques Katherine had employed while creating it. On arrival, Katherine was just as excited as I was and my eyes scanned the room for my new prized possession. Not just any hat, but a bespoke vintage Katherine Elizabeth hat made to order and made to match my beautiful dress for Ascot.

The hat, as predicted, was stunning. The edging left a smooth finish on quite an intentionally uneven design, and the round navy base gave some order to the ruched diamond attachment above it. The feathers softened the line of the quill and a few crystals attached to the feathers twinkled under her studio lights. I was delighted and impressed by the finished product and couldn’t wait to try it on.

Katherine herself was proud of this particular creation, so much so I think she was sad to have to part with it. She positioned the elastic under my hair to hold it in place and we gasped in admiration at my reflection in her studio mirrors. Well, if the hat fits they say…or is that perhaps shoes? In this case the hat did fit, perfectly no less, and I would recommend Katherine to anyone who needs that extra special head piece for any occasion. The attention to detail was impeccable and she took into account every factor beginning, probably most importantly, with my own personal expectations. (Nb. She is releasing her men’s range in September, keep your eyes peeled to her website for further details)

For those who might want to explore their own millinery talents, Katherine has set up the award winning Mad Hatter Couture parties, where guests can have a step-by-step masterclass aided by herself, in a party-like atmosphere of their choice. Makeup bag staple brand Benefit are also in attendance, pampering said guests while they sip cocktails from dainty teacups and taste delectable sweet treats. I can’t think why anyone would not want to get involved; I know for a fact I’ve got my sister’s forthcoming hen do covered.

For more information visit www.katherineelizabethhats.com

Photography (c) the better shots (last three); Paul Winch-Furness, the rest; my trusty iPhone.

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Jews Row Balcony

•June 3, 2011 • Leave a Comment

Jews Row Balcony may not be a familiar topic to you but that’s not a problem- as I can’t stop talking about it. It’s a small affair that’s on the brink of going viral. On the brink I say as it’s only recently come out of the closet from the even lesser known Nathan’s supper club, which can be broken down further to dinner cooked by Nathan, a friend of mine, quite simply for our friends, monthly.

I shall start at the beginning and explain that Nathan Richardson is no ordinary chef. I can’t deny that he had some training as he dabbled with a pastry chef role for a few years before packing himself off to university, which is where he left his culinary flair as a hobby. This break from a paid kitchen role may have worked to his advantage as cooking is most certainly not a chore for him. I’ve known him to spend the majority of his wages on the latest innovative Heston-esque equipment, and to scour London’s butchers and markets for fresh, original produce; spoiling us diners with incredible quality at no cost. This is where it had to change.

Following a monthly get together between friends, Nathan’s five/ six course dinners were becoming infamous within our social circle. Friends were arguing over spots at the next one, and Jo Ellery (Nathan’s host and flat mate) often had penned a waiting list in order to keep it fair and to see that no one missed out next time. This is not how casual dinner parties usually play out. The excitement surrounding subsequent dinners were evidence alone that there’s a place for Nathan’s supper club within London’s dining community, and I for one had become addicted.

As we garbled with admiration to anyone who would listen, we sparked an interest from Oisin Rogers and Phil White, the guys holding the reins of London’s mentalist pub the Ship in Wandsworth; who then asked to be on the guest list for the next event. They weren’t disappointed and couldn’t believe that Nathan was not charging for such high-end dishes. Phil, a live-in Manager, started toying with moving the dinner from Nathan’s home in Battersea, to his balcony above the Ship which overlooks the Thames, with the intention to open it up to the public as an on-trend Supper Club, now known as #JewsRowBalcony.

After a preliminary run two weeks ago, #JewsRowBalcony debuted this week, hosted by Phil and Jo and with the additional John Knight who had his own popup at the event; ‘Jonny Rocket’s Tiki Bar’. Guests were greeted on arrival by the ever chirpy Rocket with his custom made white sangria, made from a combination of fresh lemon juice, Grand Marnier, peach liqueur, pressed apple juice and sauvignon blanc. It was delicious and a perfect start to the evening.

After inhaling the view (and my cocktail) with fellow friends and guests of the Ship, we were led from the bar, a rather interesting erection of bamboo and Phil’s surfboard, and sat at the long table running landscape across the balcony. Pimm’s had kindly supplied a mini gazebo, which provided the perfect construction for the beach hut inspired make-shift lighting. As I inspected the funky mismatched tiles that were to be place mats and coasters, Jo poured the first of many BYO wines brought by the various guests.

Nathan’s menu didn’t disappoint, beginning with an innovative amuse of white onion soup in an ornate espresso cup with mushroom sprinkles on top that was served with pork belly lollipops and whole grain mustard ice cream. I requested an additional box of the ice-cream to take home. It really is a ‘must try’. Ashley Palmer-Watts and his new ice cream machine would be proud.

Amuse of White Onion Soup with Mushroom Sprinkles, Pork Belly Lollipops and Whole Grain Mustard Ice cream

The next dish was a prestarter consisting of caramelised sweetbreads, black pudding purée, cep foam, mushroom and sweetbread croquettes and pea shoots. This was then followed by a starter of butter poached prawns, saffron egg yolk, parsley gel and prawn consommé. These beautifully presented dishes were cleared in minutes and guests really knew by this point that they had signed up for something special.

Caramelised Sweetbreads, Black Pudding Purée, Cep Foam, Mushroom and Sweetbread Croquettes and Pea Shoots

Butter Poached Prawns, Saffron Egg Yolk, Parsley Gel and Prawn Consommé

–

The main was always going to be my favourite as Nathan himself knows I have a weakness for any duck dish. This wasn’t any duck dish though. My mouth salivates remembering the juicy poached duck breast and foie gras, served on a brioche crostini with hazelnut fluid gel, confit shallots, duck crackling and cherry purée. The hazelnut fluid gel may have had a minor role on the plate but certainly added to the overall taste combination. Imagine duck with Ferrero Rocher, basically heaven.

Poached Duck Breast and Foie Gras, served on a Brioche Crostini with Hazelnut Fluid Gel, Confit Shallots, Duck Crackling and Cherry Purée

–

White Peach and Raspberry Bavarois, Almond Ice cream, Raspberry Macaroons, Glazed Marzipan and Vanilla Milk Jelly

Nathan concluded the feast with a white peach and raspberry bavarois served alongside almond ice cream, raspberry macaroons, glazed marzipan and vanilla milk jelly. Bonkers, but it worked. I would usually not be able to fit so many dishes in, but for Nathan’s supper clubs (now obviously #Jewrowbalcony) I know to get my elasticated waists out of the wardrobe with the intention to pile away the pounds.

The night concluded with more cocktails, giggles and chatter in Jonny Rocket’s Tiki Bar, and at 2am when we all had zoned out to take in the picturesque view of Wandsworth Bridge lit up by night, we knew it was time we actually took our bellies to bed.

A truly fabulous evening executed with great attention to detail. I’d put your name down for the next one.

£25 per head for food and welcome cocktail. Bring your own beer/ wine.

Follow @JewsRowBalcony on Twitter for further news of future events.

41 Jews Row, Wandsworth, London. SW18 1TB.

Posted in Delicious Dining
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40 Winks

•October 21, 2010 • Leave a Comment

Any visitor to Stepney Green might scuttle past 109 Mile End Road and pay not the slightest attention to a surprisingly curious abode, concealed behind an unremarkable town house exterior. However, it was my destination venue; and any doubts I may have had on spotting the location evaporated as my eyes homed in on a queue of nightwear-clad beauties filing one by one through the grand front door of 109.

When my turn came to step over the threshold, I was immediately greeted by David Carter, the host, designer and owner of the monthly ‘40 Winks’ event, which takes its name from its venue, this boutique 18th-century hotel.

David, a true gentleman, with his polite introductions and elegant dress, asked my friend and me to kindly remove our shoes as we entered the dark narrow hallway. We were then led up two flights of carefully constructed stairway by some ladies who appeared to be David’s own personal geishas. We slightly dragged our complimentary slippered feet as we gazed at the bespoke artwork littering the walls.

David’s eccentricity and ardour for fine quality was perceptible in every room into which we were able to subtly poke our prying nostrils during the ascension to his powder rooms. Antiques clashing with modern designer collectables were something of the norm in this house and exhibited a bold yet personal, effortless elegance.

A nervous anticipation of the evening’s forthcoming events had taken hold of me as I rather bashfully changed out of my 9-6 work clobber and into my satin pyjamas. Pretty twenty-somethings around me were also changing into their nightwear, somewhat more confidently and displaying a lot more flesh. I was later informed about a Benefit Cosmetics prize which would be awarded to the wearer of the most glamorous nighty at the end of the evening. This dispelled any confusion over why the audience would glam up to snuggle down for a bedtime story – for that was indeed the real reason we were actually here.

As we hastily joined the naughty nighties and chequered pyjamas in the reception room on the lower ground level, my friend and I were greeted by further encouraging smiles and handed welcoming Hendrick’s-based cocktails, interestingly served in delicate little china teacups. We were then heartily advised to pay a visit to the nibbles table before the events proceeded.

David’s entrance to the basement reception was met with familiar conversation from regular attendees and intrigued questions from first timers, including my accomplice and me. David explained that we would be led to his opium den, before quickly correcting himself to clarify the joke, and then guided us up to his living room.

As the guest list was at capacity, David’s ‘geishas’ split the group in half and we sat comfortably in the lounge on a deep, furry sinker of a sofa. The walls were adorned with trinkets from travels; spears staring dangerously down from great heights, alongside antiques of which your grandmother would be proud. There was a comfortable, settling ambience in the room, all of which I felt summed up David’s unusual yet soothing personality. Très chic, one might say.

Miss Rachel Rose Reid was our first storyteller, introduced as ‘the curator of tales’ and brought in at short notice as the intended had fallen ill. She read her Victorian fairytale beautifully, telling us in emotive words of a professor who came across an alarming turn of events while taking a short vacation to the coast.

The story was told in the dark with just a simple table lamp outlining Rachel’s main features. I had got myself ready to be truly spooked from the brief suggestion that her tales would “tease, tantalise and terrify”, yet I felt great warmth in the setting and the company.

Following a brief interval in which teacups were refilled and delectable treats shared around, we were taken up two flights to the music room, where an authentic Beatles drum captivated my attention on arrival. Within a minute Sef Townsend had reclaimed it fully; a short, white haired man, dressed head-to-toe in traditional Korean attire. We gathered around him like school children and he began his story time by teaching us a traditional Korean nursery rhyme. Absolutely bizarre but entirely captivating. This then led into his first ghoulish tale, a lot more haunting than the previous, thanks to the supreme detail in his every expression and movement.

Although Sef’s repertoire was made up of rural Korean folk tales, the explicit detail in his depiction left me open-mouthed and my skin frosty within the warm atmosphere. I shot a look, mid-story, to my friend whose facial expression and body language seemed to perfectly mirror mine. We were so engrossed in the tales that the time flew by and before we knew it we were whisked back down to the lounge for the nightwear competition, which was won by a feisty leopard print ensemble exhibited on a pretty Swede.

 This enchanted evening was put to rest with a London folk musician of Polish roots called Katy Carr, playing a vintage, Wurlitzer electronic piano, ukulele and banjolele. She explained the story behind each song performed, prior to a spontaneous flex of musical talent, the majority inspired by themes, stories and characters from 1940s Britain, France and Poland. A song she wrote about Mr Carter’s house provided a perfect finale, and then we grudgingly changed back into our corporates and slipped out into the autumnal evening, slightly bewildered yet charmed by our evening at 40 winks.

40 Winks, 109 Mile End Road, London E1 4UJ.

www.40winks.org

Posted in Bizarre yet captivating
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The Spa at CityPoint Club

•September 10, 2009 • Leave a Comment

On a day when summer is a vague recollection, water clogs up the air and the tube is unnervingly full of people entertaining themselves with every type of annoyance, we may seek a place where we can roam at peace with our thoughts and rid ourselves of the overly hasty pace of London life.

A spa would be the first port of call and for those caught up in the stressful city environment – The CityPoint Club, conveniently a 3 minute walk from Moorgate tube station, is a perfect choice to slip out of your business gear and into your complimentary robe and slippers.

A well kept secret in the heart of London’s financial district, The CityPoint Club prides itself on keeping numbers at a controlled low (25 per day) so that members always feel at ease and the spa never becomes uncomfortably busy. The Club was considerably closer to the tube station than I originally anticipated, resulting in my eager treks both sides of the station to find the club being entirely in vain. Through a deceptively small lobby, clients are transported down to an area that honestly surprises you on arrival. With a healthy eating cafe and restaurant to the left, your eyes are teased over to long glass windows displaying a breathtakingly lit 20m pool. Seconds later you snap back to reality at the central reception desk as two contagiously friendly receptionists are fervent to welcome you in.

After a pleasant greeting and polite introductions I was led over to the restaurant for a complimentary welcome drink, given Club slippers and asked to fill out a medical form. You are unconsciously relaxed by the subtle calming background music (like the warm down section of a yoga class) and instantly at ease in this environment; far away from questions, plans, dates and timekeeping. The second I was left alone my attention was recaptured by the royal blue lights reflecting off the impressively designed swimming pool (complete with 4 spacious lanes) and I had to creep closer for a high quality peek.

Before I was entrusted to roam the various departments and sample The CityPoint Club’s facilities I was given a guided tour and explained that this was the perfect haven for busy workers as well as visiting day guests at weekends, many of which include high-end hen parties and sports groups. I was surprised to learn that employees in high stress jobs use a relaxation room (a dark room with a wall of tropical fish and the subtle tranquillity of the sound of water with recliners) just to catch up on nights of sleep deprivation.

It was then time to strip down to my bikini, slip into my robe and slippers while ignorantly indulging myself in the spacious, well stocked changing rooms, complete with numerous towels, products, hair dryers and even GHDs. The club had not overlooked any supplies needed for an appearance conscious female, again to maintain that stress levels plunge to a minimum – removing the worry of packing all the necessary toiletries and lugging them through your daily routine.

I then followed my feet to the sauna, plungepool and steam room, complete with three relaxation recliners. As long as you’re brave enough to take on the beauty of a naked female body, it’s a haven to eradicate dirty pores, perspire the pounds off and just naturally feel much healthier in your body, mind and soul. The steam room was a personal favourite and I treated myself to two visits as the ecalyptus scent was, to put it simply, divine. The sauna’s scent of souldering wood invited me in but after 5 minutes my upper lip was twitching and the heat became unbearable.

After many inbetween event showers I turned my attention towards the plunge pool, but I’m sorry I just wasn’t woman enough. A fingertip touch informed me the water was Aberdeen Baltic, and a freshened, rejuvenated body informed my brain that this section of the room should be politely ignored.

I continued my afternoon by heading to the pool and Jacuzzi area, the superbly dimmed lighting making the guests feel at ease when stripping down maybe past their comfort zones. With just three people swimming and one man lounging next to me my thoughts drifted (and so did my full concentration) to an Adonis already occupying the jacuzzi, and with a quick confidence push I joined him and let the various jets work their magic all over my body. Heaven.

To end my afternoon I was booked in for a treatment, a 25 minute back, neck and shoulder massage. I slithered between the chocolaty brown silk sheets and let my therapist, Hebe, loose on the nodes that she informed me had built up within my muscles. Using Elemis de-stress massage oil complimented by the music from Anton Hughes’ Amazon Rainforest, my senses were spoilt and I was once again in a world of pure luxury and indulgence. When the treatment finished I was left to relax and then debriefed that I should return every two weeks to continue the breakdown of the lactic acid as it would be too painful during just one treatment. This would be a follow-up appointment that I wouldn’t mind booking. The final ding from the Japanese bell indicated my treatment was over and thus was my day at The CityPoint Club, and as I pampered myself back into my wardrobe, I set off for my dinner date that evening smiling from the inside out.

A retreat spa day (Back massage for 25 mins and unlimited use of The CityPoint Club’s facilities) costs just £80. Next time, when I’m feeling a little more adventurous, I might try the Exotic Escape Spa Day for £275. This includes a prescriptive facial for 55 mins, Tibet or Oloil Exotic Ritual 55 mins and a luxury manicure or pedicure for 55 mins.

The CityPoint Club

1 Ropemaker Street,

Moorgate

London

EC2Y 9AW

www.thecitypointclub.co.uk

Posted in A moment for me
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A Touch of Pinki!

•July 10, 2009 • Leave a Comment

“Where did you get that beautiful handbag from?” was initially how I began talking to designer and entrepreneur Jo Kettle, the founder of the bespoke pinki! handbag range. A chance meeting in a trendy hotspot in South London sparked an interest from the attention grabbing article inducing salutations between this pretty blonde and myself, both complete strangers.

The intricate detail on the handbag was apparent and I had the insatiable desire to stroke the beautiful springbok fur. This is the natural response from women Jo chortled at a later date. Stating it was normally followed by a mumbled “is this real fur?” -Which of course it is.

The bags are handcrafted in a South African workshop with the trustworthy International Fair Trade Association status. All of the skins are sourced from socially and environmentally responsible suppliers, where the animals are farmed for their meat and the skins get cast away.

Jo sent me a link to her range (www.pinkihandbags.com) and after devouring all that I could click; I was intrigued to know more. I met up with the infectiously chatty designer and delved into the woman behind pinki!.

I learnt that after years of working in banks, law firms and PR in our country’s capital, Jo felt trapped and her gifted creativity muffled by the uniformed life surrounding her. Having grown up spending holidays in Africa she already had a deep-rooted love of African culture. The seed was sewn when Jo spotted a bag made from the fur of springbok while journeying through South Africa, and she then searched for a workshop in the Eastern Cape to initiate a new idea.

Taking time off from her city job during 2008, Jo put her heart and soul into her new project, designing a range of tactile yet luxurious bags each to a high specification. Every bag has its own distinctive set of markings from the obviously individual springbok skins.

The range includes the classic ‘Kilifi’, (a large day bag or even a baby bag for yummy mummies) perfect for glamorising your regular routine.

The slightly smaller ‘Kimberley’ (a rectangular tote)

and furthermore the wonderfully well thought through ‘Kili Weekender’, a fabulous hold-all which oozes style and creativity, qualities clearly passed on from their designer.

Jo chooses her bag names using an African theme (e.g. Kili = Kilimanjaro) yet beginning with ‘K’ from the first letter of her surname. These bags definitely have an African soul. Pinki is the Swahili word for pink, Jo’s favourite colour.

All the bags are lined with bold slipper satin in an eye-catching range of bold block colours- my favourites have to include the hot pink or burnt orange. The pinki! range offers a degree of customisation; simply specify your preferred skin type (springbok, antelope or cowhide), the bag design and your choice of coloured lining to make your bag inimitable and niche.

Being a high-end designer I was surprised when Jo said she wasn’t interested in having her own boutique, her response a transparent explanation of her entire personality. Something she has come to realise is that she doesn’t want to be tied down in the UK; her spiritual home is in Africa (she spent many years working in Malawi, S. Africa and Uganda). Instead she prefers to concentrate putting her range in the country sector, jazzing up hunting, fishing and shooting outlets all over the country.

Her new season’s collection includes unisex cowhide belts and beautiful springbok cushions.

People just can’t help but notice a pinki! Handbag and Jo has known ladies to gain dates from conversations sprung simply through an interest in the bags.

Jo’s passion for skins has provoked an intention to expand her range and she is already in talks with private reserves in Africa. She hopes to receive discarded skins and horns for a possible accessories range that will compliment her exquisite handbags and belts.

The modest designer left me feeling inspired by her bravery in setting up a new business and also craving the stunning Kilifi day bag, definitely the latest addition to my Christmas wish list!

For your own little taste of Africa-

Contact Jo Kettle – jo@pinkihandbags.com

www.pinkihandbags.com

Posted in Fabulous Fashions
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