Let's Start With This One...

Fish and chips are a truly iconic staple food for us Brits! Whether we have them by the sea or in paper on our laps in our homes, you can’t beat the comfort that a good old fashioned fish tea brings! Therefore, when the blog was kindly invited to try the fantastic Sutton & Sons in London, I simply had to say yes! 

Yesterday, the blog was kindly gifted the opportunity to try the new summer menu at Creams Cafe in Stevenage! With venues based around the UK, we were excited to see what our local one had to deliver! Let’s just say that our family is now a big fan of Creams! Find out why and what we loved so much at Creams right here!

London is the place that always amazes me when it comes to finding somewhere to eat! Whilst there are many well-known establishments, it is the hidden gems that are always the winners in my eyes! Something that Mint Leaf London definitely is! Find out all about our experience and the absolutely incredibly delicious food they have to offer at the amazing restaurant here!

With the weather turning colder, the rebirth of the roast dinner is in full force! Especially at Fearns, based on Leeds, who have created the ultimate Sunday Service menu that makes the classic dish go up a whole new level! Over three courses, we were treated to the ultimate experience that we won’t forget for a long time! Check out our review here!

The blog went football mad on Sunday! Not only were we invited to experience the wonderful National Football Museum, but the evening brought with it the amazing opportunity to enjoy the wonderful Hard Rock Cafe in Manchester to celebrate the launch of their brand new Messi menu! Find out what we thought about it and all of what we tucked deliciously into here!

Last night, the blog’s dreams come true, as we were kindly invited to sample the amazing dishes at Gordon Ramsay’s Lucky Cat restaurant in Manchester! And it is safe to say that we were so incredible amazed that I think we are still in awe of what we had and experience for life now! Find out what we ate, drank and enjoyed here!

Last night, the blog as kindly invited to try the special beef brisket platter that has been warmly welcomed onto the Smith’s Bar and Grill in London! With beautifully cooked beef, fresh vegetables and succulent starters, all leaving your tastebuds refreshed, it was a night to remember! Find out our thoughts on the meal here!

After a fantastic taster session, the blog was kindly asked back to review the full menu at the freshly opened Quattro Lounge in Hertford! Gifted endless amounts of food and drink, it was another fantastic experience at what used to be fast becoming the best dining spot in Hertford for us! Find out we thought about their incredibly tasty full menu selection here!

As the child of an Italian, the love for their food runs in my blood! So, when the blog was offered the chance to review the fantastic Al Dente in Monument, it was an easy yes. From beautiful flavours to friendly staff, Al Dente is now our secret slice of Italian heaven, becoming a stand out spot amongst all others. Find out why here

Last night, we headed to the fantastic restaurant, The Mayfair Chippy, based in the heart of London, to review their menu. And it was safe to say that it was absolutely incredible! With queues forming along the road to get in, our experience proved just why that was, as plans are already being made to go back. Find out our thoughts here…

Good Afternoon Lovelies, 

The food industry will be coming to life this Sunday, celebrating the best mothers and mother figures in our lives! However, if there is one place to go, which caters for the whole family, it’s Victoria House in London! The place where everything is going down at the weekend. Well, every weekend in fact! 

If you head down there this weekend, you can treat the family to a fantastic dining experience at the brilliant Le Petit Chef. At just 6cm tall, the holographic character of Le Petit Chef will come to life to give you and the family, especially mum, a dinner like no other this Mother’s Day. First created in 2015 in Marseilles, the 3D creation, shows you how the food you pick is being made, with an equally brilliant story being told alongside it. 

With four fantastic menus to choose from including the Le Grand Chef, Le Petit Chef Classic, a Kids and a Vegetarian one, the meal is accompanied by themed songs and music, props and perfect presentation. It’s a treat for the little and big members of the family, which is sure to bring a smile to your mum’s face. 

However, if you are looking for something a little bit more adult focused than you will definitely need to go inside The London Cabaret Club, which is actually the home of Le Petit Chef. Set in the heart of the West End, the London Cabaret Club is filled to the brim with live acts, entertainment and music, whilst serving only the best food and drinks on offer. 

Stars from theatre shows across the country come along to perform, as you enjoy dishes that will definitely help mum to put her feet up and relax. In fact, she will be so relaxed that you may end up finding her on the dance floor by the end of the night. You and your mum can also travel the world with menus celebrating Mexico, America and beyond, with their themed dishes and drinks. I have to say the Gatsby event sounds epic! 

So, whether you are looking for a meal for you, your mum and the little ones or a more daring adventure for just the two of you, The London Cabaret Club and Le Petit Chef are two fantastic options this Mother’s Day! Honestly, your mum will not want to leave by the end of the meal. I know mine wouldn’t! 

Joey X

Good Afternoon Lovelies, 

It’s a busy old afternoon on the blog today! It could honestly make you want to escape to a little cabin, amongst the hills, in a far away country. One where you can snuggle up all cosy inside or head out onto the snow to ski, snowboard or embrace some fresh air! However, it may not be entirely possible right now! So, it’s time to do the next best thing! 

Put on the ski wear. Don the snow boots. Head to your local Côte Brasserie and be rewarded because from now until the 29th February, as you and eight friends will be given a free round of drinks if you turn up in your slope appropriate outfits. 

To mark the re-launch of their much-loved Alpine menu, the restaurant chain, is allowing everyone in their skiwear to embrace the après-ski lifestyle, celebrating everything about the slopes without having to pay to get to them. All the diners have to do is order off the à la crate menu and say ‘après anything’ to receive the offer. They can then enjoy either the new Spiced Apple Spritz or non-alcoholic Spiced Apple Highball from the new Alpine menu. You can even choose to change it to a 175ml red, white or rose house wine, Meteor beer or any soft drink. 

And if that isn’t enough, diners can also enjoy one of the Alpine dishes, with traditional French cuisine like Diots, which features smoked Toulouse sausage and cherry tomatoes sautéed in white wine with thyme, butter and caramelised onion or Tartiflette – a gratin of sliced potatoes, caramelised onion and smoked bacon lardons topped with melted Reblochon & Comté cheese being available to enjoy. You could also order the Tartiflette Luxe, to share, before ending the meal the Pear & Frangipane Tart or the Alpine Chocolat Chaud as desert! 

This weekend is the perfect time to mark the end of the bleakest month of the year with a free drink, good laughs and lots of yummy foods! The slopes, I mean your local Côte Brasserie restaurant, are waiting for you to slide right in! Now, where did those goggles go?

Joey X

Good Morning Lovelies, 

Just before Christmas, I was invited to the Gibbon Bridge Hotel & Restaurant to sample some of their dishes. Unfortunately, I couldn’t make it but the team extended the invitation to January, offering me the incredible opportunity to come and stay at the hotel. With such a fantastic invitation being given to me, we were quick to agree and come along! 

With wedding season on the horizon, the secluded venue was created in 1982 by a lovely-sounding lady called Janet and her mother Maggie. Converting their working family farm and part of a barn into a beautiful establishment, the pair have built a hotel that resembles the stuff of dreams. Especially when it comes to weddings!

Working hard, the team make it their mission every day to ensure that the hotel is run correctly. One that thrives off helping local charities, by hosting grand parties and galas to raise money for them.

After checking in at 3pm, we were taken up to our room, which had two floors within it. As soon as you walked in a gorgeous double bed that overlooked the wonderful hills outside the hotel came into view. Followed by a porcelain-based bathroom, with toiletries and towels included. The second floor in the room provided a comfortable living area with a huge TV, comfy sofa and a desk that doubled up as a dressing table for the weekend. Truly everything had been catered for. Honestly, I couldn’t have asked for any more in the room. 

Having put our items away and a snoop around we met up with Pauline, who took us on a tour of the hotel. From the incredible check-in area, which had a cosy fire burning alongside giant armchairs that made you want to grab some marshmallows and make a bunch of s’mores. Or grab a whisky and sip the cold away in, you knew that the hotel was special. Every single staff member demonstrated this, as the talented team knew everything about the hotel that you could have asked for. 

Continuing with the tour, Pauline took us to the bridal suite, once known for being the hotel's spa. Catering for the whole bridal party, the suite has four bedrooms inside it, making it a self-contained unit. Perfect for when the bride and her bridesmaids want to get ready. The hotel has several options available for wedding parties, allowing up to 190 guests to stay at the venue in one of 33 suites, before enjoying either an indoor or outdoor bandstand wedding. After seeing the outdoor area and the wonderful greenery, I would have to say that it would be an outdoor bandstand option for me.

However, it isn’t just weddings we discovered they cater for. Heading into the cavalier lounge, we witnessed the most perfect place to host a large party. Plus, with the addition of an on-site bakery and ice cream parlour, the nine acres of land, which includes woodlands, ponds and vegetable gardens, meant that every single person could enjoy the hotel in a special way. 

By this point, I didn’t know how the hotel could get any better! Honestly, I was in awe. I had never been offered a hotel stay before. As a first experience, the Gibbon Bridge team and grounds were setting the bar high for anywhere else I go in the future. The only complaint I had was the fact that the animals who once lived on the farm, including four pigs, two dogs and two cats, were no longer there. Yet, it is probably for the best, as I’m sure they would not have stopped getting endless cuddles. 

The final stop on our tour was the bar area to meet a very special staff member. Having started working at the hotel in 1982, Philip, the local barman, is the longest-serving employee. He is also one of the most incredible people I have ever met. With endless amounts of knowledge, stories and facts, Philip revealed that he wouldn’t want to work anywhere else. Staying loyal to Janet, he has helped the establishment throughout it all, stating with passion how tradition is at the beating heart of it all. Something that you can easily tell because it is so beautiful to witness. 

After heading back to our room to take in all that we had learnt, you couldn’t help but feel relaxed. Once we had got washed and changed, we took our amazed selves down to the dining room for dinner. We really weren’t sure what to expect but knew that if it was anything like what we had seen already, it was going to be amazing. 

Due to the length of this post already lovelies, I’m going to be sharing the rest of my review with you all tomorrow! However, if you are already interested in booking a stay at the hotel or even just popping in for a meal or visit, they have a great Winter Warmer deal throughout January and February! For just £149, you and that special someone in your life can enjoy a double or twin room with breakfast included and complimentary tea or coffee, served with handcrafted golden flapjack, upon arrival.

From what we have seen so far, it isn’t just something to warm your winter! The Gibbon Bridge Hotel & Restaurant could warm up the whole of your 2024! Come back tomorrow to find out what happened when we went to dinner and checked out! 

Joey X

Over the weekend, we delved into the full force of Christmas here on the blog! Splitting my time between London and Blackpool, I felt like I couldn’t embrace Christmas more. So much so I am going to be decorating my tree in two weeks time! I am currently planning the whole process. 

However, this weekend, I was able to enjoy it to the max with my whole family. Especially when I was given an amazing breakfast experience at the Hard Rock Cafe in London’s Piccadilly Circus. 

Kindly, after reaching out to see what was happening in the capital over the weekend, I was given an amazing chance to enjoy a complimentary breakfast, along with my family, as well as breakfast cocktails and two breakfasts and milkshakes for the kids. Plus, an unlimited amount of soft drinks for the whole family. Honestly, when I was given this opportunity I couldn’t believe it. 

Upon arriving at the rockets restaurant in London, we were amazed by the beautiful building. Yet, it was what was in the building that really mattered. The music was blaring. The rockstars outfits were shining. The lyrics were being sung by all inside. There wasn’t anything boring about this venue to say the least. 

Seated downstairs, with the upstairs having been turned into a shop, the whole room was kitted out in memorabilia. In a comfy sofa-like booth, everyone got excited about what they were going to choose. Starting with our orders for drinks, we decided on a classic cup of tea (£4.40), from the legends that are Twinings of London, who have their first ever shop very close to the cafe and a super sweet but delicious strawberry basil lemonade (£7.60). A drink that was so fresh, even down to the added strawberries in it, it felt like summer had returned. 

For the two children, they both had the diner-style milkshakes (£7.45 each), chocolate flavoured, which were nearly bigger than them. When they came out to our table, you could see the ice cream melting into a thick, delicious, shake, with the whipped cream on top swirling into it to make it perfect. Both couldn’t stop drinking them, as they waited for their breakfast. 

Quick to take our order, the staff, who sang as they worked, were happy to provide both adults with the full English breakfasts (£14 each) and the two kids with a Lil’Rocker sized stack of fresh pancakes (£9.75 each including a drink!). Within the full English breakfast was fresh roasted vine-ripened tomatoes, mushrooms, grilled smoked bacon, crispy hash browns that were the best we had tasted ever, baked beans, a thick Cumberland sausage and a perfectly poached egg, which was picked from a choice of fried, scrambled and poached. Plus, some beautifully toasted sourdough, which was not too crispy but also not too soft. Perfect toast consistency. 

In regards to the pancakes, the kids were faced with a fine stack of goodness. Topped with fresh berries and banana, the pancakes were drizzled with homemade hot fudge chocolate sauce, which was soon smeared on their faces. Even after the full English breakfasts, all the table had to try some. It was safe to say that by the end of it, everyone was happy and satisfied. Honestly, we were so full we didn’t need anything for hours after and were super cosy and warm, leaving us ready to rock out and roam around London afterwards. 

Having never been to the Hard Rock Cafe before, I would happily return again with the whole family. Everyone left with a warm, happy smile and tummy afterwards, with plenty of memories to behold. It was a great way to start the first day of the trip and the kids will remember it forever. Overall, the meal came to £74.40, which may seem pricey for a breakfast, but for a family of four, it was worth it in the memories we made and the delicious food we had. 

In the lead up to Christmas, you couldn’t have asked for anything better and when we return to London again in the future, we would definitely go back. We honestly could not be more thankful to the amazing Hard Rock team for the warming welcome and the food and drinks they provided. Having these special family moments make our capital so welcoming and I will be recommending the restaurant to everyone I know. 

The Hard Rock Cafe also does special steak burgers, main meals, sandwiches, kid friendly menus and special desserts and drinks, until very late at night, with menus being able to be viewed on their website lovelies. Perfect for if you want to grab a bite on the go or for a special occasion at night. It literally is rocking all over the world with the people who walk through the doors and I will be one of them when I go back! 

Joey X

On Wednesday night, the team behind Marco Pierre White’s new restaurant in Leicester Square, Mr White’s, invited me and my family down to enjoy the official launch of it. And boy was it a night! 

Turning up at 6:30pm, we were greeted kindly by the team, who lead us upstairs to where the event was being held. This allowed other diners to enjoy their meals downstairs, whilst the party happened upstairs. Greeted with a beautiful band, singing all types of songs including Disney ones, the night kicked off with the offer of free wine and beer. Something my brother was very happy with. 

With famous faces taking to the launch, my mum and brother got the chance to meet the likes of Vanessa Feltz and Terry Stone, who were absolutely lovely, as they took to the dance floor. All before the famous pizza was served. 

Fresh from the restaurant’s pizza ovens, the oozy gooey pizza, was plenty for my family to enjoy. Although, we would have loved to have seen and tried one of the steaks on the menu. Something that we will definitely be going back for in the future. 

As the night continued and the pizza went down, strawberry mojitos were presented to us, before the offer of tequila shots. Sweet and perfect as a cleanser after the pizza. The night continued with great music, more drinks and even more dancing, before we headed into London’s flowing nightlife to catch the train home. 

Looking at the menu, there is something for everyone at the restaurant. Even though it may seem fancy from the outside, Mr White’s welcomes everyone in to try a famous Marco recipe and there is no doubt that you will enjoy what you pick. 

Spending the night with great music, people and food is always a winner in our house. This event definitely delivered that for all of us. That steak is already calling my family back asap! If not that, then definitely the pizza. All of which, is affordable for a famous chef’s restaurant. 

To find our more about the restaurant and the food on offer, head to the Mr White’s website. You can book your place to enjoy the food there too on the site. 

Have you been to Mr White’s? If so, let me know what you thought! 

Joey X

Good Morning Lovelies, 

A few weeks ago, I was kindly invited to experience the new look, TCB (The Chinese Buffet) experience in Blackpool. Whilst I live in London, I was quick to accept the opportunity, as my brother lives in the area and was all to willing to help me with this. 

Together, we were gifted a meal for two, with soft drinks, that featured their all you can eat buffet. However, it came with a bit of a difference. Unlike when you go up to the counters, the food would be delivered to your table. By BellaBot. 

The BellaBot, what is that I hear you ask, is a cat/robot hybrid that politely and quickly holds the trays of food, so you don’t have to, bringing them straight to your table. 

How? Well, by picking the food you would like to try for each course through the restaurants dedicated app, the dishes are then made in the kitchen and brought out. 

Each dish being perfectly portioned, with lots of options for meat, vegetarian and vegan diners according to my brother. In fact, he was happy to give me a quick verbal review for you all…

The images apparently don’t do it enough justice. My brother couldn’t encourage you to go and visit it enough. After seeing the images, my mum is now plotting a trip for the family when we go up there next to try it herself. I think she wants to meet the BellaBot too. 

If you are in the Blackpool area and want a safe, filling and fun experience, with plenty of food and drink to enjoy too, then this seems perfect for you. Currently, the restaurants are mostly based in the north of the UK, but hopefully they will be all over soon. In fact, I can already see them being all around in no time. 

To find out more or to book a meal, head to the TCB Dining website. From everything I have seen and heard, you won’t be disappointed. 

Joey X