Showing posts with label food. Show all posts
Showing posts with label food. Show all posts

Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury

PRESS INVITE 

Nestled in Great Durnford, on the outskirts of Salisbury, you'll find The Great Bustard. A cosy pub and beautiful restaurant with 10 en suite rooms, a small farm shop, and a treatment room. The Great Bustard opened a year ago, following years of renovation work, and I was invited down this week to try their new autumn menu. 


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury


The day started with a short foraging walk in the surrounding area with head chef Jordan, who has a true nose-to-tail approach to cooking. The team uses seasonal produce from the estate, and surrounding areas, to craft their dishes, minimising the waste along the way. Despite being between key foraging seasons, Jordan pointed out fennel, wild mint, and watercress on our short walk, all things I would have totally walked past without spotting!


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury

Satisfied with our new-found foraging knowledge, we settled into the cosy pub area of The Great Bustard, where the team brought out an extensive range of bar snacks for us to try. The table was full of delicious food, and this was just the pre-lunch snack! The standout bar snacks for me were the KFP, the Kentucky Fried Partridge, the Shepherd's Pie Croquettes, and the Pizzas. I'd never had pistachio on a pizza before, and I'll admit I was a little skeptical, but it was truly delicious! 


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury

Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury

We were then taken through to the main restaurant area and shown to our table. The aesthetics in here are GORGEOUS, and was an ideal setting to enjoy a long lunch. The attention to detail is incredible, and the contemporary minimal design allows the food and the beautiful surroundings to truly shine. 

Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury

L-R Clockwise
Braised Beef Shin, Slow Cooked Egg, Beef Fat Soldiers 
Roasted Pumpkin Filled Pasta, Pumpkin Seed Romesco, Sage 
Red Mullet, Ajo Blanco, Grapes & Celery
Estate Game Terrine, Port and Onion Chutney, Treacle Loaf 

Head chef Jordan selected a number of the new autumn menu dishes for us to try, and chatted us through them just before we tried them. We tried these starters, and I'm truly still thinking about that beef shin... It was so tender, and the beef fat soldiers were just as decadent as they sound. 


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury












L-R Clockwise
Durnford Estate Lamb, BBQ'd Sweetcorn, Morteau Sausage, Girolles 
Cornish Brill, Braised Fennel, Broccoli, Caper Jam 
Creedy Carver Duck, Beetroot, Duck Ragout, Kale 
Lyons Hill Farm Steak Special served with Fries & Peppercorn Sauce 

Next up, Jordan brought out four mains, and yes, they were as incredible as they look! I loved all three of the meat options, but if I could only have one of them again, I think it'd have to be the lamb. BBQ'd sweetcorn with lamb? Again, not something I've had before, but it was SO good. The presentation of all of the dishes was incredible. This certainly isn't your typical village pub... 



L-R 
Caramelised Apple, Muscovado Sugar, Cinnamon Ice Cream 
Salted Caramel & Pecan Delice, Malted Milk Chocolate Cremeux, Pecan Ice Cream 

And, as if we hadn't already eaten enough incredible food, Jordan and Simon then brought out dessert as well as petit fours. At this point, you probably think I've been paid to say only good things, but there truly wasn't a bad dish on this menu. The attention to detail with the desserts was incredible, just look at them! 

Not pictured
Fig Sorbet, Gooseberry & Vanilla Gel, Fennel Granola 


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard


Wiltshire foodies, this is a spot you need to check out, whether it's for a pizza and a pint or their tasting menu. The staff are all super attentive, the setting is stunning, and the food is on a whole other level. Thank you to the team for such a wonderful day, I've never had so much good food in one sitting! 
Salisbury, UK

Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard, Salisbury

3.10.25 • , , ,

Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury

PRESS INVITE 

Nestled in Great Durnford, on the outskirts of Salisbury, you'll find The Great Bustard. A cosy pub and beautiful restaurant with 10 en suite rooms, a small farm shop, and a treatment room. The Great Bustard opened a year ago, following years of renovation work, and I was invited down this week to try their new autumn menu. 


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury


The day started with a short foraging walk in the surrounding area with head chef Jordan, who has a true nose-to-tail approach to cooking. The team uses seasonal produce from the estate, and surrounding areas, to craft their dishes, minimising the waste along the way. Despite being between key foraging seasons, Jordan pointed out fennel, wild mint, and watercress on our short walk, all things I would have totally walked past without spotting!


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury

Satisfied with our new-found foraging knowledge, we settled into the cosy pub area of The Great Bustard, where the team brought out an extensive range of bar snacks for us to try. The table was full of delicious food, and this was just the pre-lunch snack! The standout bar snacks for me were the KFP, the Kentucky Fried Partridge, the Shepherd's Pie Croquettes, and the Pizzas. I'd never had pistachio on a pizza before, and I'll admit I was a little skeptical, but it was truly delicious! 


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury

Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury

We were then taken through to the main restaurant area and shown to our table. The aesthetics in here are GORGEOUS, and was an ideal setting to enjoy a long lunch. The attention to detail is incredible, and the contemporary minimal design allows the food and the beautiful surroundings to truly shine. 

Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury

L-R Clockwise
Braised Beef Shin, Slow Cooked Egg, Beef Fat Soldiers 
Roasted Pumpkin Filled Pasta, Pumpkin Seed Romesco, Sage 
Red Mullet, Ajo Blanco, Grapes & Celery
Estate Game Terrine, Port and Onion Chutney, Treacle Loaf 

Head chef Jordan selected a number of the new autumn menu dishes for us to try, and chatted us through them just before we tried them. We tried these starters, and I'm truly still thinking about that beef shin... It was so tender, and the beef fat soldiers were just as decadent as they sound. 


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard Salisbury












L-R Clockwise
Durnford Estate Lamb, BBQ'd Sweetcorn, Morteau Sausage, Girolles 
Cornish Brill, Braised Fennel, Broccoli, Caper Jam 
Creedy Carver Duck, Beetroot, Duck Ragout, Kale 
Lyons Hill Farm Steak Special served with Fries & Peppercorn Sauce 

Next up, Jordan brought out four mains, and yes, they were as incredible as they look! I loved all three of the meat options, but if I could only have one of them again, I think it'd have to be the lamb. BBQ'd sweetcorn with lamb? Again, not something I've had before, but it was SO good. The presentation of all of the dishes was incredible. This certainly isn't your typical village pub... 



L-R 
Caramelised Apple, Muscovado Sugar, Cinnamon Ice Cream 
Salted Caramel & Pecan Delice, Malted Milk Chocolate Cremeux, Pecan Ice Cream 

And, as if we hadn't already eaten enough incredible food, Jordan and Simon then brought out dessert as well as petit fours. At this point, you probably think I've been paid to say only good things, but there truly wasn't a bad dish on this menu. The attention to detail with the desserts was incredible, just look at them! 

Not pictured
Fig Sorbet, Gooseberry & Vanilla Gel, Fennel Granola 


Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard


Wiltshire foodies, this is a spot you need to check out, whether it's for a pizza and a pint or their tasting menu. The staff are all super attentive, the setting is stunning, and the food is on a whole other level. Thank you to the team for such a wonderful day, I've never had so much good food in one sitting! 

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Autumn Menu Launch at The Great Bustard, Salisbury
Burgers at Hettie Bells, Salisbury Review
Burgers at Hettie Bells, Salisbury Review
Burgers at Hettie Bells, Salisbury Review
Burgers at Hettie Bells, Salisbury Review






Anyone who knows us personally will know that we are BIG fans of a dinner offer. I'm talking 2 for £x, buy one get one free, you name it, we'll give it a go. Hettie Bells' 2-4-1 burger offer has been on our 'we must try that' list for a good few months now, and this week we finally made it down there to try it out. 

Situated opposite the train station, Hettie Bells is both a pub and a cafe. They're open 7am-11pm every day, serving coffees and pastries in the cafe, and beers and burgers in the pub from 11am. 

The decor is dark, moody and cosy, perfect for this time of year. We found ourselves a little table for two not far from a tv showing the live departures board for the station. We weren't going anywhere, but if you are, that's pretty neat, huh? 

So, the main event, the reason we were there... Smash burgers! Every Tuesday, all of the burgers are 2 for 1, and the best bit? They don't even need to be two of the same type. This worked out really well for us as Elliot was keen to try the Chicken Whippy (buttermilk chicken, vanilla ice cream, hot honey and bacon) whilst I opted for the Ray Mac (double smash patty, deep fried mac 'n' cheese, pickles, burger sauce and lettuce). On the menu is also a double smash patty with beef brisket (Brisket McBeefFace) as well as a vegan option too (Monty Don)! 

After a slight wait on the food, our burgers arrived, and oh my... Wow. If the burgers themselves weren't big enough, just look at that mountain of fries... They were both piping hot and crispy! The burgers themselves were delicious and exactly what we were hoping for. The deep fried mac and cheese in mine was sooo good. Smash burgers in Salisbury? We love to see it. 

If you haven't already been to Hettie Bells to try their burgers, I highly recommend that you do. You won't be disappointed! 
Salisbury, UK

Burgers at Hettie Bells, Salisbury - Review

16.10.24 • , ,

Burgers at Hettie Bells, Salisbury Review
Burgers at Hettie Bells, Salisbury Review
Burgers at Hettie Bells, Salisbury Review
Burgers at Hettie Bells, Salisbury Review






Anyone who knows us personally will know that we are BIG fans of a dinner offer. I'm talking 2 for £x, buy one get one free, you name it, we'll give it a go. Hettie Bells' 2-4-1 burger offer has been on our 'we must try that' list for a good few months now, and this week we finally made it down there to try it out. 

Situated opposite the train station, Hettie Bells is both a pub and a cafe. They're open 7am-11pm every day, serving coffees and pastries in the cafe, and beers and burgers in the pub from 11am. 

The decor is dark, moody and cosy, perfect for this time of year. We found ourselves a little table for two not far from a tv showing the live departures board for the station. We weren't going anywhere, but if you are, that's pretty neat, huh? 

So, the main event, the reason we were there... Smash burgers! Every Tuesday, all of the burgers are 2 for 1, and the best bit? They don't even need to be two of the same type. This worked out really well for us as Elliot was keen to try the Chicken Whippy (buttermilk chicken, vanilla ice cream, hot honey and bacon) whilst I opted for the Ray Mac (double smash patty, deep fried mac 'n' cheese, pickles, burger sauce and lettuce). On the menu is also a double smash patty with beef brisket (Brisket McBeefFace) as well as a vegan option too (Monty Don)! 

After a slight wait on the food, our burgers arrived, and oh my... Wow. If the burgers themselves weren't big enough, just look at that mountain of fries... They were both piping hot and crispy! The burgers themselves were delicious and exactly what we were hoping for. The deep fried mac and cheese in mine was sooo good. Smash burgers in Salisbury? We love to see it. 

If you haven't already been to Hettie Bells to try their burgers, I highly recommend that you do. You won't be disappointed! 
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Burgers at Hettie Bells, Salisbury - Review

The Stalls Cafe Salisbury Review

The Stalls Cafe Salisbury Review
The Stalls Cafe Salisbury Review

A coffee and a cake at a new-to-me cafe? Sounds like a perfect Saturday morning plan. This morning Elliot and I headed to The Stalls Cafe and it was lovely. 

Located in a converted barn on a working farm in Sutton Mandeville, The Stalls Cafe has an eco-friendly approach and serves specialty coffee and locally sourced food. 

We both had a latte, Elliot had a bacon roll and I had a lemon and strawberry bun. There was a really good selection of cooked food and pastries on offer and I would absolutely go back to try one of their breakfasts. 

They're open Wednesday - Sunday, 9am - 3pm, and I'd definitely recommend taking a drive out to there if you're looking for something to do of a weekend morning... 

ps The Stalls Cafe also host a monthly car meet on a Sunday called 'Sunday Startup' if that's you're sort of thing!



Have you ever been to The Stalls Cafe?
Salisbury, UK

The Stalls Cafe, Salisbury - Review

15.6.24 • , ,

The Stalls Cafe Salisbury Review

The Stalls Cafe Salisbury Review
The Stalls Cafe Salisbury Review

A coffee and a cake at a new-to-me cafe? Sounds like a perfect Saturday morning plan. This morning Elliot and I headed to The Stalls Cafe and it was lovely. 

Located in a converted barn on a working farm in Sutton Mandeville, The Stalls Cafe has an eco-friendly approach and serves specialty coffee and locally sourced food. 

We both had a latte, Elliot had a bacon roll and I had a lemon and strawberry bun. There was a really good selection of cooked food and pastries on offer and I would absolutely go back to try one of their breakfasts. 

They're open Wednesday - Sunday, 9am - 3pm, and I'd definitely recommend taking a drive out to there if you're looking for something to do of a weekend morning... 

ps The Stalls Cafe also host a monthly car meet on a Sunday called 'Sunday Startup' if that's you're sort of thing!



Have you ever been to The Stalls Cafe?
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The Stalls Cafe, Salisbury - Review

Syds Slaps Southbourne Review

Syds Slaps Southbourne Review

Syds Slaps Southbourne Review
With the south coast finally seeing its first proper sunny weekend of the year, Elliot and I decided it was only right that we head to the coast for a beach walk and some brunch. Rather than head somewhere that we've been before for brunch, I had a quick Google Maps scroll and stumbled across Syd's Slaps in Southbourne. With the slogan 'Neighbourhood Caff & Night Time Gaff', you know it's going to be good...

Situated on the high street, Syd's Slaps has indoor seating as well as outdoor seating out the front and the back. We opted to sit in their courtyard garden round the back. 

Their brunch menu consists of set breakfasts (your typical cooked breakfast combos) as well as muffins/brioche rolls and sourdough toasts. 

Elliot and I both had a sausage muffin and it far exceeded our expectations. As well as the delicious sausage patty, the muffin also had a fried egg, a humongous hashbrown, and cheese. I had a 'Builders Tea' with my brunch, Elliot had a latte and both were great. The coffee was one of the better ones I've tried recently.

Our bill came to £20.90 which seemed very reasonable in these current economic times. The muffins were just £8 each and very well-sized too. 

If you're looking for a brunch in Southbourne, definitely check out Syd's Slaps, we'll definitely be making a return! 


Have you ever been to Syd's Slaps in Southbourne?
Southbourne, Bournemouth, UK

Brunch at Syd's Slaps, Southbourne - Review

2.6.24 • , ,

Syds Slaps Southbourne Review

Syds Slaps Southbourne Review

Syds Slaps Southbourne Review
With the south coast finally seeing its first proper sunny weekend of the year, Elliot and I decided it was only right that we head to the coast for a beach walk and some brunch. Rather than head somewhere that we've been before for brunch, I had a quick Google Maps scroll and stumbled across Syd's Slaps in Southbourne. With the slogan 'Neighbourhood Caff & Night Time Gaff', you know it's going to be good...

Situated on the high street, Syd's Slaps has indoor seating as well as outdoor seating out the front and the back. We opted to sit in their courtyard garden round the back. 

Their brunch menu consists of set breakfasts (your typical cooked breakfast combos) as well as muffins/brioche rolls and sourdough toasts. 

Elliot and I both had a sausage muffin and it far exceeded our expectations. As well as the delicious sausage patty, the muffin also had a fried egg, a humongous hashbrown, and cheese. I had a 'Builders Tea' with my brunch, Elliot had a latte and both were great. The coffee was one of the better ones I've tried recently.

Our bill came to £20.90 which seemed very reasonable in these current economic times. The muffins were just £8 each and very well-sized too. 

If you're looking for a brunch in Southbourne, definitely check out Syd's Slaps, we'll definitely be making a return! 


Have you ever been to Syd's Slaps in Southbourne?

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Brunch at Syd's Slaps, Southbourne - Review

Lina Stores, Bloomsberg Arcade, London Review
Lina Stores, Bloomsberg Arcade, London Review

Lina Stores, Bloomsberg Arcade, London Review

Lina Stores, Bloomsberg Arcade, London Review


A good few weeks ago now, Elliot and I had a very last-minute day out in London. We didn't have any major plans and were just keen to mooch around, eat some good food and then come back home again. Now, Lina Stores has been on my to-visit list for the longest time and this particular trip felt like the ideal time to try it. 

Now, the Bloomsberg Arcade restaurant (the one we visited) is the one that I've seen alllll over TikTok, so I knew if we were going to do it, we had to do it properly. That said, it's not in an area we usually go to, so if you're a day-tripper like me, it's not the most convenient. 


Lina Stores, Bloomsberg Arcade, London - Review

So, shall we start with the decor? I love. The restaurant is beautiful and I cannot get over that bar area, it's stunning! 


We just turned up on a Saturday lunchtime and there was absolutely no problem getting a table at all. So much so, in fact, I'm glad we actually didn't book a table. Just to note, there's a cancellation policy if you book a table online. It's £10 per person for no-shows and late cancellations charged to the card used when making the booking. 


Enough waffling... The food then. It was SO good. I had the 'Pappardelle con Ragù di Salsiccia di Agnello' which is pappardelle, lamb sausage ragù, cime di rapa, chilli and pecorino romano. It was delicious. I've genuinely never had a pasta dish with as much flavour as this one. Elliot had the chicken and mushroom ravioli and that was amazing too. The ravioli parcels were absolutely brimming with chicken breast and the sauce was incredible too. 


Not pictured, but I did also have a Limoncello Spritz which was great too. 


The only downfall of my visit to Lina Stores? The portion size. I know I tend to eat hearty portion sizes, especially when it comes to pasta, but I'm not sure this would have filled me up if I had had it for dinner. As a quick lunch, it was ideal. Are you meant to have more than one pasta dish? Is that the idea? Who knows... 


Finally, for anyone nosy like I am, we paid £47.25 total. We each had a pasta dish and a drink and there was a £5.25 service charge included in that too. 


Would I go again? Yes! Would I recommend a visit to Lina Stores if you haven't already been? Yes! 
London, UK

Lina Stores, Bloomsberg Arcade, London - Review

27.9.23 • , ,

Lina Stores, Bloomsberg Arcade, London Review
Lina Stores, Bloomsberg Arcade, London Review

Lina Stores, Bloomsberg Arcade, London Review

Lina Stores, Bloomsberg Arcade, London Review


A good few weeks ago now, Elliot and I had a very last-minute day out in London. We didn't have any major plans and were just keen to mooch around, eat some good food and then come back home again. Now, Lina Stores has been on my to-visit list for the longest time and this particular trip felt like the ideal time to try it. 

Now, the Bloomsberg Arcade restaurant (the one we visited) is the one that I've seen alllll over TikTok, so I knew if we were going to do it, we had to do it properly. That said, it's not in an area we usually go to, so if you're a day-tripper like me, it's not the most convenient. 


Lina Stores, Bloomsberg Arcade, London - Review

So, shall we start with the decor? I love. The restaurant is beautiful and I cannot get over that bar area, it's stunning! 


We just turned up on a Saturday lunchtime and there was absolutely no problem getting a table at all. So much so, in fact, I'm glad we actually didn't book a table. Just to note, there's a cancellation policy if you book a table online. It's £10 per person for no-shows and late cancellations charged to the card used when making the booking. 


Enough waffling... The food then. It was SO good. I had the 'Pappardelle con Ragù di Salsiccia di Agnello' which is pappardelle, lamb sausage ragù, cime di rapa, chilli and pecorino romano. It was delicious. I've genuinely never had a pasta dish with as much flavour as this one. Elliot had the chicken and mushroom ravioli and that was amazing too. The ravioli parcels were absolutely brimming with chicken breast and the sauce was incredible too. 


Not pictured, but I did also have a Limoncello Spritz which was great too. 


The only downfall of my visit to Lina Stores? The portion size. I know I tend to eat hearty portion sizes, especially when it comes to pasta, but I'm not sure this would have filled me up if I had had it for dinner. As a quick lunch, it was ideal. Are you meant to have more than one pasta dish? Is that the idea? Who knows... 


Finally, for anyone nosy like I am, we paid £47.25 total. We each had a pasta dish and a drink and there was a £5.25 service charge included in that too. 


Would I go again? Yes! Would I recommend a visit to Lina Stores if you haven't already been? Yes! 

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Lina Stores, Bloomsberg Arcade, London - Review
Little Perth Bournemouth Review
Little Perth Bournemouth Review
Little Perth Bournemouth Review
Little Perth Bournemouth Review

As part of our long weekend plans last week, Elliot and I headed to Southbourne for a swim in the sea and a coffee. Little Perth has been on my list to visit for the longest time and the timings all finally lined up! They actually have two locations, one in Westbourne and one in Southbourne, and we visited the latter. It's about half a mile away from Fisherman's Walk, so we parked up on the beachfront and meandered down there before our dip.

As you can see, the decor is truly beautiful and everything that I'd choose if I had a coffee shop of my own. Pink walls, rattan lights, Ercol-style chairs, pink mugs, and an array of dried and fresh flowers and plants. I know I've said it multiple times on my blog, but this truly was insta-worthy! 

If you've not heard of Little Perth they're a florist and a coffee shop in one. Top tip, the flowers were all 40% off when we were there (we were there an hour before closing on a Sunday) so perhaps that's the best time to go! They had bunches of peonies for £18 as well as other larger bouquets and they were all individually priced. 

In terms of the coffees, they were great. We both just had a latte and had no complaints at all. The cake selection was a little sparse when we got there (you can't have it both ways, hey!) so we opted for a Passionfruit Meringue Tart and the last White Chocolate and Raspberry Blondie. They were both delicious but the blondie definitely pipped the tart to the post! It was sweet but not too sweet and certainly cured my sugar craving. 

Whilst we were there we also had a quick look at the menu and it turns out they also serve a range of brunch dishes as well as beers! That said, they do shut at 4pm most days, so it's definitely not somewhere to head for an after-work drink... 

In case I hadn't already made it clear enough, I thoroughly enjoyed my trip to Little Perth and will absolutely be going again! 


Have you ever been to Little Perth in Bournemouth?
Southbourne, Bournemouth, UK

Little Perth, Bournemouth - Review

2.6.23 • , , ,

Little Perth Bournemouth Review
Little Perth Bournemouth Review
Little Perth Bournemouth Review
Little Perth Bournemouth Review

As part of our long weekend plans last week, Elliot and I headed to Southbourne for a swim in the sea and a coffee. Little Perth has been on my list to visit for the longest time and the timings all finally lined up! They actually have two locations, one in Westbourne and one in Southbourne, and we visited the latter. It's about half a mile away from Fisherman's Walk, so we parked up on the beachfront and meandered down there before our dip.

As you can see, the decor is truly beautiful and everything that I'd choose if I had a coffee shop of my own. Pink walls, rattan lights, Ercol-style chairs, pink mugs, and an array of dried and fresh flowers and plants. I know I've said it multiple times on my blog, but this truly was insta-worthy! 

If you've not heard of Little Perth they're a florist and a coffee shop in one. Top tip, the flowers were all 40% off when we were there (we were there an hour before closing on a Sunday) so perhaps that's the best time to go! They had bunches of peonies for £18 as well as other larger bouquets and they were all individually priced. 

In terms of the coffees, they were great. We both just had a latte and had no complaints at all. The cake selection was a little sparse when we got there (you can't have it both ways, hey!) so we opted for a Passionfruit Meringue Tart and the last White Chocolate and Raspberry Blondie. They were both delicious but the blondie definitely pipped the tart to the post! It was sweet but not too sweet and certainly cured my sugar craving. 

Whilst we were there we also had a quick look at the menu and it turns out they also serve a range of brunch dishes as well as beers! That said, they do shut at 4pm most days, so it's definitely not somewhere to head for an after-work drink... 

In case I hadn't already made it clear enough, I thoroughly enjoyed my trip to Little Perth and will absolutely be going again! 


Have you ever been to Little Perth in Bournemouth?
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Little Perth, Bournemouth - Review
Carvery at The Countryman Inn Review

Carvery at The Countryman Inn Review

Carvery at The Countryman Inn Review



After a busy weekend in Weymouth, a roast dinner with all the trimmings was very much required last week. We parked in West Lulworth, walked over the top to Durdle Door, and sat at the top of the cliff googling local carveries and pubs. The Countryman Inn came up a few times and based on a) the price (a lot of others were quite expensive and b) the photos, we were sold. We did manage to book a table just a couple of hours before but they were very very busy. So, I'd definitely recommend booking ahead if you're planning a visit.


Just a 10-minute drive from Durdle Door, The Countryman Inn is a large pub with nine en-suite bedrooms. The team were all really friendly and the menu is pretty extensive. But, being a Sunday, there really was only one thing we were interested in... Their carvery. 


A regular plate is £12.99 and a large is £14.99. Elliot and I both went for the regular and were absolutely stuffed afterwards. You can fit a huge mountain of food on the regular, I wouldn't upgrade to the large!


There were three meats on offer; beef, turkey, and pork, and because I'm a creature of habit, I naturally went for the beef. The meat was really tasty but, if I'm honest, it was the trimmings that were the star of the show. Besides Christmas Day, when the trimmings are exceptional, when has anyone ever said that?!


Normally, when you go to a carvery, you get a choice of carrots, peas or green beans and maybe a bit of stuffing if you're lucky. Well, not at The Countryman Inn. And for that reason, I think this could be the best carvery I've EVER been to. 


I'm talking... roast potatoes, roast parsnips, Yorkshire pudding, baby carrots, green beans, savoy cabbage, swede mash, cauliflower cheese, AND stuffing balls. Besides maybe some broccoli, I think they have truly covered all of the bases there


For me, the standouts were the Yorkshire, the parsnips, and the cauliflower cheese. In hindsight, if I'd known they were going to be that good, I'd have had less of the other bits and absolutely loaded my plate up with those! In my opinion, the roast potatoes weren't anything special, but everything else got my approval. 


So, if you're planning a wholesome Sunday day trip and don't know where to start then allow me to suggest a walk at Durdle Door and a carvery at The Countryman Inn - we had a fantastic day! 



Have you ever been to The Countryman Inn?

A Carvery at The Countryman Inn, Dorchester - Review

13.2.23 • , , ,

Carvery at The Countryman Inn Review

Carvery at The Countryman Inn Review

Carvery at The Countryman Inn Review



After a busy weekend in Weymouth, a roast dinner with all the trimmings was very much required last week. We parked in West Lulworth, walked over the top to Durdle Door, and sat at the top of the cliff googling local carveries and pubs. The Countryman Inn came up a few times and based on a) the price (a lot of others were quite expensive and b) the photos, we were sold. We did manage to book a table just a couple of hours before but they were very very busy. So, I'd definitely recommend booking ahead if you're planning a visit.


Just a 10-minute drive from Durdle Door, The Countryman Inn is a large pub with nine en-suite bedrooms. The team were all really friendly and the menu is pretty extensive. But, being a Sunday, there really was only one thing we were interested in... Their carvery. 


A regular plate is £12.99 and a large is £14.99. Elliot and I both went for the regular and were absolutely stuffed afterwards. You can fit a huge mountain of food on the regular, I wouldn't upgrade to the large!


There were three meats on offer; beef, turkey, and pork, and because I'm a creature of habit, I naturally went for the beef. The meat was really tasty but, if I'm honest, it was the trimmings that were the star of the show. Besides Christmas Day, when the trimmings are exceptional, when has anyone ever said that?!


Normally, when you go to a carvery, you get a choice of carrots, peas or green beans and maybe a bit of stuffing if you're lucky. Well, not at The Countryman Inn. And for that reason, I think this could be the best carvery I've EVER been to. 


I'm talking... roast potatoes, roast parsnips, Yorkshire pudding, baby carrots, green beans, savoy cabbage, swede mash, cauliflower cheese, AND stuffing balls. Besides maybe some broccoli, I think they have truly covered all of the bases there


For me, the standouts were the Yorkshire, the parsnips, and the cauliflower cheese. In hindsight, if I'd known they were going to be that good, I'd have had less of the other bits and absolutely loaded my plate up with those! In my opinion, the roast potatoes weren't anything special, but everything else got my approval. 


So, if you're planning a wholesome Sunday day trip and don't know where to start then allow me to suggest a walk at Durdle Door and a carvery at The Countryman Inn - we had a fantastic day! 



Have you ever been to The Countryman Inn?

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A Carvery at The Countryman Inn, Dorchester - Review

So, you're looking for somewhere a bit nicer to go for dinner in Salisbury... Now, don't get me wrong I don't have any Michelin star recommendations for you here, just places we tend to head to if we're looking to spend a bit more. They're all in the city center and also independent businesses, so great ones to add to your list to visit in 2023....


Where To Go In Salisbury For A Nicer Dinner... 


3 places to go in Salisbury for a nicer dinner

01. Cafe Diwali

This is actually a new contender for the list as I only visited recently myself. It's located on Crane Street, a couple of doors down from The Salisbury Orangery, and not far from the cathedral. They serve a wide range of Indian street food including curries and sizzlers. 

I know this post is about dinners but on their lunch menu are 'Thali Platters' which consist of a choice of one of three curries, rice, vegetable dal, pickle, naan, and pappad. These are between £12.95 and £14.95 and are a great way to have a taste of the menu without spending too much. For reference, when Elliot and I went to Cafe Diwali for dinner we had a curry each (which came with a naan), a rice to share, and a beer each and spent a total of £50. So, it's certainly on the pricier side but the food was truly delicious. 

It was very busy when we arrived so I'd definitely advise booking in advance. The staff are all really friendly and whilst it doesn't look like the most eye-catching place from the outside, trust me, the food is delicious. The Butter Chicken was a solid 11/10 and I've tried a fair few in my time. 


3 places to go in Salisbury for a nicer dinner

02. Nole

Perhaps a bit predictable for this post but their pizzas are just that good.  If you've been around a while you'll have seen me mention Nole previously, and for good reason. They have a restaurant in the Market Square in Salisbury, a kitchen at The Pembroke Arms in Wilton, one in Hindon, and one in Neveravon too. Elliot and I have been to the one in the city center as well as Wilton. 

Their pizzas are delicious and we've always had great service whenever we've visited. This pizza featured here was the meat special when we visited; a sourdough pizza topped with pepperoni, roquito peppers, and honey. Deeeeelish.

For reference, at the Wilton branch (The Pembroke Arms) a discretionary 12.5% service charge is added to the bill. So, when we visited 2 pints and 2 pizzas with the charge came to a total of £45. 

To the best of my knowledge, they don't take bookings but we've never had any troubles when we've turned up. Also, if you don't already follow them on Instagram, give them a follow, their posts crack me up. 



3 places to go in Salisbury for a nicer dinner

03. Tinga

If you're a fan of Mexican food then Tinga absolutely needs to be on your list of places to visit. Their menu is made up of lots of different small plates but they do also have a couple of traditional main meal sized options if that's more your thing. They recommend ordering 2-3 plates per person so we opted for 5 between us. 

The food was all brilliant and the grasshoppers need to have their shining moment. Yep, you can order 'Guacamole con Chapulines' which is avocado with red onions, coriander, and tomatoes topped with crunchy grasshoppers. I can't say they were the tastiest thing I've ever eaten, I can distinctly remember their 'earthy' taste. But, as something new to try, it's something you've got to do once. 

Reservations are strongly advised and they're often booked up weeks in advance (for weekend evenings etc). They also host bottomless brunches which consist of 4 courses, free-flowing Prosecco, Beers (and mocktails/soft drinks) for £50pp which could be a great way to get to try out a few dishes (and a few drinks)...


So, there we have it, 3 places to go in Salisbury for a nicer dinner... Aka the places we don't visit on a regular basis, rather they're where we head when we want something a bit more special. This is the first of my Salisbury Food Guides so if you have any burning Salisbury foodie questions or want to suggest which I do next, don't hesitate to message me on Instagram!


Where is your go-to place for a nice meal in Salisbury? 
Salisbury, UK

3 Places To Go In Salisbury For A Nicer Dinner...

8.1.23 • , , , , ,

So, you're looking for somewhere a bit nicer to go for dinner in Salisbury... Now, don't get me wrong I don't have any Michelin star recommendations for you here, just places we tend to head to if we're looking to spend a bit more. They're all in the city center and also independent businesses, so great ones to add to your list to visit in 2023....


Where To Go In Salisbury For A Nicer Dinner... 


3 places to go in Salisbury for a nicer dinner

01. Cafe Diwali

This is actually a new contender for the list as I only visited recently myself. It's located on Crane Street, a couple of doors down from The Salisbury Orangery, and not far from the cathedral. They serve a wide range of Indian street food including curries and sizzlers. 

I know this post is about dinners but on their lunch menu are 'Thali Platters' which consist of a choice of one of three curries, rice, vegetable dal, pickle, naan, and pappad. These are between £12.95 and £14.95 and are a great way to have a taste of the menu without spending too much. For reference, when Elliot and I went to Cafe Diwali for dinner we had a curry each (which came with a naan), a rice to share, and a beer each and spent a total of £50. So, it's certainly on the pricier side but the food was truly delicious. 

It was very busy when we arrived so I'd definitely advise booking in advance. The staff are all really friendly and whilst it doesn't look like the most eye-catching place from the outside, trust me, the food is delicious. The Butter Chicken was a solid 11/10 and I've tried a fair few in my time. 


3 places to go in Salisbury for a nicer dinner

02. Nole

Perhaps a bit predictable for this post but their pizzas are just that good.  If you've been around a while you'll have seen me mention Nole previously, and for good reason. They have a restaurant in the Market Square in Salisbury, a kitchen at The Pembroke Arms in Wilton, one in Hindon, and one in Neveravon too. Elliot and I have been to the one in the city center as well as Wilton. 

Their pizzas are delicious and we've always had great service whenever we've visited. This pizza featured here was the meat special when we visited; a sourdough pizza topped with pepperoni, roquito peppers, and honey. Deeeeelish.

For reference, at the Wilton branch (The Pembroke Arms) a discretionary 12.5% service charge is added to the bill. So, when we visited 2 pints and 2 pizzas with the charge came to a total of £45. 

To the best of my knowledge, they don't take bookings but we've never had any troubles when we've turned up. Also, if you don't already follow them on Instagram, give them a follow, their posts crack me up. 



3 places to go in Salisbury for a nicer dinner

03. Tinga

If you're a fan of Mexican food then Tinga absolutely needs to be on your list of places to visit. Their menu is made up of lots of different small plates but they do also have a couple of traditional main meal sized options if that's more your thing. They recommend ordering 2-3 plates per person so we opted for 5 between us. 

The food was all brilliant and the grasshoppers need to have their shining moment. Yep, you can order 'Guacamole con Chapulines' which is avocado with red onions, coriander, and tomatoes topped with crunchy grasshoppers. I can't say they were the tastiest thing I've ever eaten, I can distinctly remember their 'earthy' taste. But, as something new to try, it's something you've got to do once. 

Reservations are strongly advised and they're often booked up weeks in advance (for weekend evenings etc). They also host bottomless brunches which consist of 4 courses, free-flowing Prosecco, Beers (and mocktails/soft drinks) for £50pp which could be a great way to get to try out a few dishes (and a few drinks)...


So, there we have it, 3 places to go in Salisbury for a nicer dinner... Aka the places we don't visit on a regular basis, rather they're where we head when we want something a bit more special. This is the first of my Salisbury Food Guides so if you have any burning Salisbury foodie questions or want to suggest which I do next, don't hesitate to message me on Instagram!


Where is your go-to place for a nice meal in Salisbury? 
continue reading

3 Places To Go In Salisbury For A Nicer Dinner...

Rocket and Basil Berlin Review

Rocket and Basil Berlin Review

Rocket and Basil Berlin Review

Rocket and Basil Berlin Review





Another morning in Berlin and another fantastic brunch... The best way to explore a new city is by eating your way around it, right? Elliot and I didn't end up going for any dinners out (hello bratwurst at the Christmas markets) but we more than made up for it with our brunch selections. Today's beauty that I want to share with you is Rocket + Basil. 

Now, similar to Annelies, Rocket + Basil don't take any reservations but luckily we didn't have to wait outside too long for a table. The café is located not too far from Checkpoint Charlie (which was where our hotel was) so we took a little wander in the snow to have a stack each of their fantastic-looking pancakes. 

This was another Google Maps/Instagram find and oh my, it was brilliant. Have you ever seen so much syrup on a stack of pancakes?! It was literally a syrup flood on the plate. Now, I don't have the biggest sweet tooth ever but I thoroughly enjoyed these. 

The pancakes themselves were delicious and the pistachios added a nice crunch. The caramelised bananas were incredible and I would like to have those on every breakfast moving forwards please. I will admit that I couldn't quite finish the entire plate but I certainly managed over 80% of it which is no mean feat. 

The pancakes were €13 and the only negative thing I have to say about them is that there wasn't enough mascarpone... 

Our waitress was really friendly and the atmosphere in Rocket + Basil was really nice too. Other notable mentions on the menu include an omelette and a sausage bun. 

If you're in the mood for pancakes, definitely head here in Berlin for a stack!

Pancakes at Rocket + Basil, Berlin - Review

17.12.22 • , ,

Rocket and Basil Berlin Review

Rocket and Basil Berlin Review

Rocket and Basil Berlin Review

Rocket and Basil Berlin Review





Another morning in Berlin and another fantastic brunch... The best way to explore a new city is by eating your way around it, right? Elliot and I didn't end up going for any dinners out (hello bratwurst at the Christmas markets) but we more than made up for it with our brunch selections. Today's beauty that I want to share with you is Rocket + Basil. 

Now, similar to Annelies, Rocket + Basil don't take any reservations but luckily we didn't have to wait outside too long for a table. The café is located not too far from Checkpoint Charlie (which was where our hotel was) so we took a little wander in the snow to have a stack each of their fantastic-looking pancakes. 

This was another Google Maps/Instagram find and oh my, it was brilliant. Have you ever seen so much syrup on a stack of pancakes?! It was literally a syrup flood on the plate. Now, I don't have the biggest sweet tooth ever but I thoroughly enjoyed these. 

The pancakes themselves were delicious and the pistachios added a nice crunch. The caramelised bananas were incredible and I would like to have those on every breakfast moving forwards please. I will admit that I couldn't quite finish the entire plate but I certainly managed over 80% of it which is no mean feat. 

The pancakes were €13 and the only negative thing I have to say about them is that there wasn't enough mascarpone... 

Our waitress was really friendly and the atmosphere in Rocket + Basil was really nice too. Other notable mentions on the menu include an omelette and a sausage bun. 

If you're in the mood for pancakes, definitely head here in Berlin for a stack!
continue reading

Pancakes at Rocket + Basil, Berlin - Review

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