To say “I went to a chop shop” sure sounds naughty doesn’t it? Sorry to alarm you. It’s not that sort of chop shop, more of ‘Sam’s Chop Shop’, the delivery arm of Sam’s Chop House Restaurant in Manchester. I have previously visited Sam’s brother Albert (as in Albert’s Chophouse) when I was reviewing for Manchester Confidentials and I…
With the advent of a new season comes new seasonal menus introduced in restaurants across the country. One such eatery is Loch Fyne, who I have reviewed before. Loch Fyne is described as an upscale chain restaurant whose offerings include sustainably sourced British fish and seafood, plus meat dishes. There are various menus including brunch, lunch, à la carte and children’s…
Despite it being the middle of August, the weather seems to have taken a turn for the worse. It is grey, dark and the non-stop rain makes the day feel heavier. This sort of weather makes me crave spicy food and hearty curries, which is why I found myself right at home at Thai Boran, Derby one chilly Friday evening.…
As The White Hart Duffield gears up to celebrate a very special birthday, I visit to review the new summer menu. Does the new menu deliver in the flavour stakes? Have you ever watched the 1985 TV adaptation of Anne of Green Gables? Bonus points for reading Lucy Maud Montgomery most excellent series. If you haven’t watched it, you…
I am not good with change. I am always wary of those who profess their love for ‘mixing things up’ because they liken it to adventure of some sort. No, no… just no. I find comfort in the familiar, like an old book that you can dive into after a long day, or that slightly worn jumper that feels right,…
It is a brand new year with brand new resolutions and this year I have just the one aspirational goal. I am therefore obliged to embrace wholeheartedly the notion of not being at my desk all the time. It is one of the joys (not) of being a writer, where you spend every gold-dust minute plotting Book Three and increasing…
Carluccio’s is the latest name to enthral diners in Derby. Having been open just over a month, the restaurant is a gorgeous space serving up delicious treats and authentic Italian food with a contemporary twist. I dined at Carluccio’s Derby earlier this week (see original review here). What struck me is the diverse menu selection, including one that is vegan…
*For an indulgent lunchtime treat that won’t break the bank, you can get 25% off on High Tea at Robata Bar & Grill from Sunday to Thursday between 2pm and 4pm. Available between 10th November and 24th December. Be sure to book in advance, quoting Christmas High Tea Offer by calling 0121 273 1027.* What do you do when you…
Whenever anyone asks me about my favourite restaurant, I try not to look too horrified. How can I name just the one? It’s like asking a parent to choose their favourite child. One of the restaurants however, to make my top ten is Le Bistrot Pierre on Friargate, Derby. I have been there before (check out my original review). It’s…
Hi all, I hope you’re enjoying the positively scrumptious weather. OK you know what I’m like about good coffee, right? (Elixir, it’s ELIXIR I tell you!). I have the innate desire to shout out about good coffee, which is why I just had to hop on to tell y0u about a good coffee place in town. It’s no secret that I prefer independent coffee shops and quirky cafés which ooze…