The Cuban, Bristol

Given that it's a relatively new addition to Bristol's gastronomical line-up, I was eager to sample The Cuban's culinary offerings – a menu which, encapsulating the spirit of Havana, promises 'delicious recipes' that constitute an extensive line-up of tapas and authentic Cuban dishes.

Date and Time: Tuesday 22nd July 2014, 19:30
Name of Establishment: The Cuban*
Location: Building 11, Harbourside, Bristol
Reason for Visit: An eight-part get-together...friends, colleagues and couples!

Moving inside after a giant cloud of Cuban cigar smoke engulfed our alfresco drinking experience, my friends and I took our table amidst the well-populated dining area of The Cuban - first impressions proving altogether positive given the upbeat ambiance which, comprising happy chatter and a Latin soundtrack, appropriately mirrored the smiley service that ensued. We had arrived five minutes before the Happy Hour had ended so managed to bag ourselves a couple of cheeky half-price cocktails from a selected menu. As their more elaborate concoctions were reserved for full-price consumption, we settled for trusty Caipirinhas which, served long, were not quite in keeping with the 'traditional' format but had nevertheless been accurately executed, (in that, the alcohol content remained reassuringly potent!) The rum menu is clearly the star of the show however, showcasing well-over 100 rums from around the world (comparable, you might say, only to The Rummer’s* collection) and costing between £3.50 and £13.50 a short.

Although we sat next to a pretty sizeable party of mid-week merry-makers, I would suggest that a 50-minute wait for one's dinner is somewhat tortuous to say the least! This waiting game extended to those ordering their drinks at the bar and also to those who ordered their drinks from the table – though curiously, we were granted a complimentary Mojiito as, we were informed, the bar staff had made 'one-too-many' (yet this was prior to the arrival of the three which we initially ordered...not that we were complaining!) it's fair to say that we were unanimously ravenous in the face of the main event; my Chorizo and Beef Burger (£11.95) practically inhaled and particularly well-received. Its accompaniments were attentively plated and tasty; the ‘Cuban slaw’ surprisingly spicy and the Peri Peri fries plentiful and crisp. That said, the emmental that I opted to add to my burger (for £1.50) was all-but non-existent and the salt content of the dish as a whole must have been considerably high in light of the raging thirst that woke me repeatedly throughout the night! The Chocolate and Chorizo Chilli Beef (£11.95) was also considered an ample choice as it was rich-tasting and creatively presented within a crispy tortilla shell. Blackbean rice, plus portions of sour cream and guacamole, completed the ensemble and constituted a dish both wholesome and delicious. On the whole, we were pleased with the quality of the cuisine – that is, until the Seafood Paella Creole made an entrance… Shared between two, this was decidedly bland; both in terms of its appearance and taste. You might even say that the fishy bits (namely; clams, shelled mussels, king prawns, baby octopus and calamari) were still swimming given the watery disposition of the rice - the key factor which actually made this an inedible defeat. It goes without saying that the paella was returned to the kitchen and I’m pleased to report that the waiting staff were altogether apologetic and immediately removed the dish from our bill – along with the aforementioned Mojiitos which we eventually received. That said, as a venue offering an ‘all-you-can-eat’ paella night (which is Thursday if you're game), it is a little worrying; though, with the plethora of deals that run during the week (plus their partnership with Jongleurs which comes into effect on the weekend), there are plenty of alternative nights on which to visit. In my view, Wednesday is your best bet as it’s their 2 for 1 ‘Fiesta Night’ whereby main meals and cocktails are buy-one-get-one-free. The Happy Hour which typically runs from 16:00 until 19:00, is extended until close on a Wednesday too so there really isn’t a reason not to partake in a few après-office drinky poos now, is there?! Salsa Sundays are also a good shout if you fancy throwing some shapes with those in the know – this takes place from 17:00 until late and welcomes dancers of all abilities!

In conclusion, I’m not sure I’d return in a hurry, at least not for dinner…Though the vast rum collection and cocktail menu do make for a pretty sound watering hole, I think that those at the helm of The Cuban have been blind-sided by their daily-deal incentives and should, instead, focus on their menu; ensuring quality throughout. For, a few tweaks here and there would no doubt drive this hit and miss culture towards a reliable dining experience.

And now for the second (collective) opinion…

The Group awarded The Cuban a disappointing 4/10 and in three words, described the experience as simply, 'not good enough'...

References:

*http://www.thecubanbristol.co.uk/

*http://therummer.net/

The Bath Priory Hotel: The Great Cocktail Feast, Thursday 11 October 2013

As part of the month-long, ‘Great Bath Feast’, The Bath Priory hotel offered an exclusive evening of decadent drinky-poos and top-notch nibbles in their luxurious surroundings. The red carpet was being dusted off upon our arrival and this certainly seemed to underpin the ethos for the evening whereby guests were warmly welcomed and treated, from the outset, to a first-rate level of service complete with complimentary hand massages (courtesy of the 'Garden Spa' team) and informative wine tasting sessions. First though, a lesson in cocktails and two concoctions created in-house by resident mixologist, Adam. The first, an Irish Flower which combined whiskey with fresh raspberries, cranberry juice and Chambord; the latter proving the dominant ingredient in an altogether enjoyable ensemble. The second was the Jalapeno Chase, which was fondly referred to as an alcoholic Lemsip; the vodka and fresh jalapenos suitably punctuating the medicinal trio of apple, honey and lemon! We were also treated to a fruity punch of lychee, passion fruit and vodka which proved simple, refreshing yet dangerously drinkable. It’s fair to say that a passion to wow guests with an innovative line-up of cocktails was overwhelmingly apparent; a finding which will no doubt secure a return visit from yours truly given my love of experimental cocktails and twists on the classics.

Next, we sampled two white wine and two red wines with the hotel’s head sommelier, Alex. The official tasting notes were as follows, along with my own rather amateur conclusions:

White 1: Etna Bianco Sicily Planeta, Italy – 'an extraordinary wine which appears almost clear, with slight lime green reflections. The initial nose is laden with the rich, warm mineral scents of mica, granite and flint against a cool backdrop of green apple, acacia honey, kumquats , fennel, raw almonds and wild flowers...with notes suggesting wet river rocks [and] stone-fruit pits, there is a fresh purity here that is beyond compare'.

Verdict:This was certainly a unique tipple; though despite its impressive origins and apparent clarity, I wasn't overly keen on its flavour which was simply too subtle for my liking!

White 2: Chenin Blanc Kleine Zalza, South Africa – 'Strong citrus notes, plus lychee and guava aromas on the nose with ripe pineapple and peach flavours that follow through on the palate. These are complemented with a long, clean, crisp after-taste'.

Verdict: A classy white with a fresh, fruity finish – exactly the kind of wine I'd choose for a Friday-night with the girls.

Red 1: Douro, Quinta do Crasto, Portugal – 'Deep ruby in colour with ripened fruit aromas. Hence, very fruity on the palate with good structure and light tannins; making it a very pleasant wine'.

Verdict: My drinking companion and I referred to this as the 'cheap red'; i.e. the kind of wine you'd pick up from the supermarket to enjoy alongside a home-made plate of pasta. Yes, although ample for washing down a canapé or two, this was really rather brash on the palate; especially in light of the second red on the table. (NB. If this is, in fact, a particularly expensive wine – I'm sorry!)

Red 2: Pinot Noir, Reserva especial, Tabali, Limari Valley Chile – 'a delicious, mouthwatering yet delicate Pinot Noir with smoky plum and redcurrant, plus hints of strawberry on the nose. The palate has more smoky fresh red fruit with a clean, almost scented finish'.

Verdict: This was by far my favourite of all four wines; it was light and fruity - oh so fruity - with a touch of summertime sparkle to its overall demeanour. More please!

Meanwhile, guests were sporadically invited to descend upon a selection of canapés, designed by Michelin Starred Executive Head Chef, Sam Moody and his Team; sumptuous morsels of top-end fare which seemed to adequately demonstrate the calibre of the hotel’s restaurant. These included pulled pork pies which had been spiked with a little apricot and caraway chutney and topped with herb breadcrumbs and teeny-tiny spiced lamb burgers, neatly layered with red onion slaw and coriander mayonnaise. The parmesan and rosemary risotto balls were my personal favourite however, served with a truffle mayo which was melt-in-the-mouth delicious. A small selection of bite-sized desserts completed the bill; the warm Madeleines somewhat reminiscent of my Parisian adventures earlier in the year.

Thus, a two-tiered triumph given the success of the evening itself and how well the hotel had showcased their strengths; enticing attendees to return to further experience their excellent service and culinary expertise; factors of the evening which really set The Bath Priory aside as a first-rate hotel and restaurant.

The Bath Priory Hotel

Weston Road, Bath BA1 2XT

Tel: 01225331922 / Email: mail@thebathpriory.co.uk

http://www.thebathpriory.co.uk/

Tails Cocktails – Bristol Launch Party at Byzantium

'Authentic cocktails, anytime, anywhere' – it sounds like something that dreams are made of! Yet, this is the tag-line underpinning Tails: a company which has tapped into the illustrious market of on-the-go refreshment; though with a decidedly sophisticated edge. Yes, rather like you might enjoy a flask of tea on a frosty fishing trip, Tails allows you to 'shake your own' cocktail wherever you are – each of the four available concoctions served from its own recyclable shaker, (because supermarket-ready G&Ts and canned cocktails seem soooo dated nowadays don't you think?) Subsequently, upon being invited to discover 'Tails' at its official Bristol launch party, I couldn't help but question what would set this particular product aside from its aforementioned counterparts and also, whether the cocktails themselves would live up to the appeal of their packaging.

Date and Time: Thursday 29^th November 2012, 18:00-21:00

Name of Establishment: Byzantium

Location: 2 Portwall Lane, Bristol

Reason for Visit: An introduction to Tails Cocktails – Official Bristol Launch Party

Advertised as: Premium; whereby cocktails are pungently (at 14-16% by volume) blended from good quality spirits and liqueurs from around the globe, natural; given that each cocktail is free from artificial colours and flavours and bespoke; due to the innovative design of the packaging, Tails is a refreshing take on the culture of the take-away tipple – here, offering an assortment of classic cocktails that can be enjoyed 'on-the-go', within the comfort of one's home or out on the town; minus the typical queuing that seems to go hand-in-hand with hardcore cocktail creation! As the brainchild of father and son team Peter and Nick Wall, Tails has been launched in a number of top-end outlets including the likes of Selfridge’s, John Lewis and Harvey Nichols; the 500ml shaker priced from £12.50 and the 150ml 'mini' shaker at £4.50. For us Bristolians, it's also worth being aware that Tails will be stocked in a handful of the city's watering holes; namely Racks Bar and Kitchen, Luna, Byzantium and the Colston Hall.

Without further ado, let me tell you a little about Tails' range which, in true Sex and the City fashion, was sampled (rather shamelessly) in its entirety amongst our female foursome...for the sake of the review of course!

Elderflower Collins

They said: An invigorating cocktail of apple and lemon juice, made with elderflower liqueur and London Dry Gin

We thought..That this was a lovely addition to the line-up; channelling the essence of alfresco Summer-time drinking with its crisp, refreshing notes – the gin element adding the necessary punch and complementing the zing of the apple and the tart of lemon juice to perfection.

To sum up...EW gave the Elderflower Collins a rating of 8/10 and in three words described it as an, 'English Country Garden'.

Espresso Martini

They said: An indulgent cocktail of rich coffee, vanilla and chocolate, made with coffee liqueur and Premium French vodka

We thought...That this was a deliciously decadent concoction with bitter-sweet appeal and a rich, creamy finish; a suitable digestif or wicked pick-me-up given its unmistakable caffeine content - the latter evidenced with the positive correlation between the number of espresso martinis consumed and the extent of one's sleepless night! That said, this was a firm favourite and without doubt, my cocktail of choice from the collection overall.

To sum up...BR gave the Espresso Martini a rating of 9/10 and in three words commented that it had a 'smooth, balanced flavour'.

Mai Tai

They said: An exotic cocktail of pineapple, almond and lime made with a blend of light and dark Caribbean rums.

We thought...that this was lethally drinkable! A sweet yet fresh-tasting cocktail reminiscent of sunny days and holidays abroad! The ying-yang rum content was arguably somewhat undetectable but facilitated an enjoyable drinking experience nevertheless.

To sum up...LC gave the Mai Tai a rating of 7/10 and in three words described it as 'refreshing', 'zingy' but 'tame'.

Cosmopolitan

They said: A sophisticated cocktail of citrus and berry fruits, made with Italian Triple Sec and premium French vodka

We thought...That this was an ample Cosmo and yet unanimously our least favourite given that it sported a decidedly weak disposition; proving somewhat pale in colour and lacking the kick that the other four concoctions had in abundance.

To sum up...SE gave the Cosmopolitan a rating of 6/10 and in three words described it as, 'a little disappointing'.

To note that each beverage was finished with an appropriate garnish which obviously, you'd have to provide yourself...

A 'Mock Tai' was also available (though I'm told that this is not on the market at present) which, made with passionfruit and a touch of sparkle, was really rather well-received; the designated driver of our party enjoying that the non-alcoholic option was served with as much gusto as its boozier equivalents.

As for the venue, Byzantuim never fails to deliver in terms of its intriguing ambiance, eye-catching Moroccan-themed décor and colourful yet comfortable seating – I should also mention the canapés (which did become rather essential given the number of cocktails consumed on a 'school night' and in rather quick succession! which were beautifully presented, tasty and varied – the shredded duck and horseradish tartlet proving particularly popular amongst our party.

In conclusion, there are a number of plus points to this progressive concept of 'shake and serve' – we considered it a welcome change to be promptly served at the bar rather than to wait it out whilst one's beverage is painstakingly concocted from scratch. However, you may well argue that the theatre of mixology will become redundant; falling behind in the ever-present tussle between art and convenience. On a similar front, there are a number of cocktails which simply could not be created in this way – the ever-popular Mojito for instance which, despite its undeniable 'best-seller' status, would lose its appeal if you were to take away the altogether essential effects of fresh lime and crushed mint. Nevertheless, there are many avenues which could be explored instead – perhaps deviating from the classics and exploring alternative themes and eras; reflecting perhaps the originality of the packaging with a contemporary content. Predominantly though, the brief has been met as Tails' cocktails have been well-executed, thoughtfully blended and really do fare rather well as *the* upmarket takeaway-tipple (plus, albeit more expensive, far classier than gin in a tin!) And so, suitable for quality quaffing on-the-go, as an after-dinner treat or as a quirky Christmas gift (well, 'tis the season after all), there really is no reason not to experience Tails for yourself!

References:

*http://www.tailscocktails.com/

*http://www.byzantium.co.uk/default.aspx

Aqua Italia, Welsh Back – Bristol

For a twelve-part army of formally united University Administrators, a night-out on the town typically requires a base with a little substance and flair – this is, of course, in addition to a broad menu so to satisfy the diverse range of culinary preferences amongst us as well as an overhead soundtrack at a reasonable pitch in order to facilitate the inevitable round-robin of scandalous office gossip! On this occasion, we had booked to dine at the Welsh Back branch of Aqua Italia – it's intention to bring 'the best of Italian cuisine...to Bristol and Bath' proving rather appealing as, in my view, if all else fails, you really can't go wrong with a darn good pizza!

Date and Time: Monday 27^th February 2012, 19:30

Name of Establishment: Aqua Italia*

Location: Welsh Back, Bristol

Reason for Visit: An out-of-office rendezvous with colleagues, past and present

The logistics of the often taboo scenario that is the office-night-out never fails to cause me a degree of anxiety for, as organisational equals, my fellow diners look to me (the self-appointed social secretary and resident ‘foodie’ of the group), to deliver an evening of top-notch tucker and easy conversation. Hence, I toy between venues sporting the ‘safe-bet’ badge and those offering the wow-factor; though seemingly at a greater cost and with a complicated menu that simply doesn’t appeal to that aforementioned obstacle of varying palate. To that end, Aqua Italia seemed like an ample choice and although the evening would ultimately focus upon the company of colleagues past and present, the crisp, sophisticated décor of this river-side establishment was unanimously appreciated. In fact, even before putting a foot inside, the enchanting blue fairy lights that have been strung through the branches of the trees that juxtapose the waters-edge, twinkle blue against the night's sky and, coupled with the ever-present swans that glide silently past, this casts an air of serenity; intended, I'm sure, to be reflected in the ambiance created within. And, with high ceilings, angular arrangements of marble-topped furniture (dressed with pristine, white linen and minimalistic-looking vases of foliage)...not to mention the grand presence of the bar adorned with a rather sizeable vase of decorative lemons, this is, on the large part, achieved. Though not to imply that this is a space devoid of any character – quite the contrary – this was simply an airy, comfortable eatery which suitably accommodated our party amidst the rather respectable buzz of a perfectly proportioned clientèle...and on a Monday evening no less...!

 

On to the cuisine and as we had pre-ordered our preferences from the menu almost a Month prior to the evening in question, we were not anticipating the elongated wait between courses that occurred. Nevertheless, it did give us time to familiarise ourselves with the dishes we had ordered (via the spreadsheet I had especially prepared...that's right, they don't call me the social secretary for nothing) and, just as a critical case of stomach-rumbling syndrome started to take hold, the starters made their timely entrance. Proving generally well-received with attention to detail to warrant a visual feast prior to one's first mouthful and portion sizes that leaned towards too much rather than not-enough, dishes such as the Sardines su Pane Tostado and Antipasto di Verdure (both £6.95) ate very well. The latter, in particular, with its medley of grilled aubergine, balsamic shallots, courgette, roasted red pepper and torn buffalo mozzarella proving both wholesome and tasty. Plus, although not to the taste of its recipient, the dish was finished with a wonderfully flavoursome garlic coleslaw; an aspect of the ensemble that I just had to rescue and reuse as a punchy garnish to my eagerly awaited pizza...

As a two-course kind of girl and, unsurprisingly, opting for pudding as opposed to a starter, I was seriously wilting by the time that main courses were served. An eventuality that made the limp-looking pizza that had been set before me all the more disappointing. This was the Toscano del Pollo Formaggi (£9.95) which the menu described as a; 'classic Tuscan pizza topped with chicken, red pepper, three cheeses and picked herbs’. In reality however, I received a thin, almost soggy pizza base liberally spread with a tasty tomato sauce but only tentatively scattered with chunks of chicken and finished with a few glistening slithers of caramelised onion – not a red pepper in sight...(as captured below.) Hypothetically speaking and quite literally too, this was a flop. That said, other diners commended the dishes they had received; most of which, although appearing a little minimalistic upon first look, proving rich and filling – the side orders requested to bulk them up becoming somewhat redundant as the evening progressed and appetites began to dissipate. Specifically, the Pollo Farcito (£13.25); an Italian crumbed chicken breast stuffed with mozzarella and pesto was described as delicious – plus, meeting an approving round of oohs and ahhs, this created a serious bout of food envy...particularly on my part! Praise too for the Aqua Burger (£10.95); a decidedly hand-made patty of good quality beef, though ever so slightly unbalanced in terms of its bap to burger ratio, the Risotto alla Zucca (£10.95); with the earthy sweetness of butternut squash comprising a delightfully sunny plate and the Anatra Balsamico con Lamponi (£13.25); the pan-fried duck breast proving perfectly executed and well matched to the crisp bite of its balsamic vinegar and cherry glaze. Our party were rather unimaginative when it came to drinks to accompany our dinner (be it a school night and all) but had we been game, we could have opted for a cocktail from Aqua Italia's extensive line-up...in this instance, I would have chosen the Riverside Bellini (£7.25); a light, fizzy combination of Chambord, raspberry purée and Prosecco. What's more, on a buy-one-get-one-free basis from noon until 7:30pm, this would be a welcome aperitif in the event of a return-visit...

A little lack lustre...and where are the peppers?!

And now for dessert and I'm pleased to report that this time, it was well worth the wait – the Torta Inglese Caramellata (£5.75) or, sticky toffee pudding for us Brits, undoubtedly proved the pick of the puddings with its rich, burnt-sugar stickiness, moist consistency and warm, gooey finish - oh yes, this was pudding porn in all its glory and finally, I was in heaven! A finishing dollop of good-quality vanilla-pod ice cream provided the perfect contrast to the hot toffee drizzle with its cool, creamy appeal – just divine and, in my view, compensating entirely for the course that had preceded it. Others chose the Cheesecake cotto Sicilliano (£3.95); home-made by Emelia Schiavetta (the owner's other half), Raspberry Crème Brulee (£5.95) and the Baked Figs (£5.95); all of which were described as delightfully decadent and as a result, thoroughly enjoyed.

Beautiful Baked Figs

Torta Inglese Caramellata - yum!

All in all, a satisfactory experience – positives included the relaxed, comfortable atmosphere, a commendable level of customer service, (proving friendly and efficient yet unobtrusive) and the wide menu which ultimately accommodates even the fussiest of diners. Negatives constituted the rather pricey nature of the fare which, I’m afraid to say, was not always justified given its tendency to be a little hit and miss in regards to its quality. Also, portion sizes varied enormously; with starters of a larger-than-life composition and main courses rather sparsely plated in places. Lastly, addressing the overall timings that in turn orchestrate the gap between courses may be advisable as having diners keel over with hunger due to waiting forty-five minutes at a time is surely not a favourable outcome! Consequently, I will be keeping an eye out for money-saving offers as when Aqua Italia is good, it is very good, but when it is bad (and you've paid full whack for the privilege), it's rather insulting – the girls and I had a fantastic evening and it's fair to say that the initial criteria in terms of a chitchat ad catch-up was well and truly met. Hence, on this occasion, a dining experience of this kind was just the ticket, however, given the option and in light of the multitude of Italian restaurants gracing our fair city, this certainly wouldn't be my first choice for that aforementioned (and now, quite frankly coveted), darn good pizza!

And now for the second opinion...

The lovely 'PB' gave Aqua Italia 9/10 and in three words, described her experience as ‘fab food’ and ‘fun’…I don’t quite mirror this praise but each to their own!

References:

*http://aqua-restaurant.com/

The Social Bar and Café – Cheltenham Road, Bristol

Another tempting Groupon* deal marked another mid-week dinner-date with the Best Foodie Friend (BFF) – this time in the comfortable grunge of The Social; a café-come-bar situated on Cheltenham Road; smack-bang in the heart of Bristol's eclectic Stokes Croft district which, proving somewhat reminiscent of The Loungers chain, proved equally as appealing in terms of its hearty portions of good-quality comfort food...!

Date and Time: Wednesday 18^th January 2012, 20:15

Name of Establishment: The Social Bar and Café*

Location: 130 Cheltenham Road, Stokes Croft – Bristol

Reason for Visit: Two course meal for two with a glass of wine each for a mere thirteen quid!

It's fair to say that the BFF and I were ever-so-slightly fraught having negotiated the multiple terms and conditions of this particular Groupon offer. Although unspecified at the time of booking, the two-courses for two deal, (plus a house vino each) was only redeemable on certain days of the week and only after 8:00pm Monday to Wednesday. This, in addition to the fact that one was not allowed to pre-book a table nor able to choose certain dishes from the main menu, (namely the 8oz steak which unfortunately, the BFF had already earmarked for consumption), almost cost this venue our visit – the rules and restrictions proving rather off-putting to say the least. That said, with a near-to-full occupancy upon our arrival;, The Social encompassed an excitable buzz and, coupled with its warm, candlelit cosiness, eradicated any preconceptions based on our experiences thus far. What's more, with a scattering of local artwork*, mish-mash of squishy sofas, a sporadic arrangement of solid wooden furniture and the raw brick work of the well-stocked bar, (facilitating the focal point of this thoughtfully arranged space), you couldn't help but fall in love with its quirky charm – sticky table-tops and all...The ambiance would have been all the more appealing had it not been for the consistent guffawing expelled from an obnoxious character sat nearby whose boozy banter demanded periodic bursts of shouted conversation with the BFF and meant that all trace of any background music became somewhat redundant given its deafening pitch...a shame, but hardly the fault of the establishment itself!

Although it hasn't happened for a while, when it came to choosing from the main menu, the BFF and I were entirely in-sync; both opting to indulge in the 'Perry and Treacle Ham Hock'. Furthermore, we were both equally as impressed with its careful presentation as, despite generously portioned and unquestionably substantial in terms of its content, this was an altogether attractive plate. In fact, with so much going on, it was difficult to know where to start... Weighing up the possibilities, I began by spearing the perfectly-poached duck egg so that its rich yoke drizzled down through the shredded meat to establish a spectrum of flavours; specifically, the smoky notes of burnt sugar which, punctuated with the crisp bite of fermented fruit, just danced on the palate. That said, the root vegetable 'chips' were fairly disappointing as although they looked the part and had been finished with a honey-glaze (which, to be fair, did create a wonderfully sweet after-taste when it came to the carrots), this was not quite enough to mask the inedible bitterness of the parsnips. A well-measured dollop of peas pudding, with its coarse, almost rustic, appeal, provided a refreshing angle in regards to the varying tastes and textures of this dish. Fluffy new potatoes completed the ensemble; their sound execution proving a welcome alternative to the veggies which, I'm afraid to say constituted the only low point; faring a lot better on the the menu than they did in the flesh! However, with an ample dousing of tasty gravy, this was a satisfying mash-up of rich, flavoursome ingredients that really lent themselves to the aforementioned concept of good, honest comfort food!

With just two desserts on the menu, one was forced to choose between the chocolaty option or the non-chocolaty option – hands up who can guess which I decided to indulge in! Yes, as lovely as the Winter Berry Crumble sounded, for me, it had to be the 'Chocolately Chocolate Cake', (yes, this is really what it's called!) Served alongside a dainty jug of double cream, this pud would have been more accurately described as a brownie given its fudgy texture and the oven-baked-crunch of its topping. In fact, had it actually been a cake, I may have been able to finish it – instead, given its decidedly decadent presence, I simply had to admit defeat – a rarity by my own admission (especially given my notorious sweet tooth) but then again, I'd sooner this outcome than be left wanting more...! 

To sum up, The Social is clearly a regular haunt for many and rightly so given its ability to cater for the diversity of its Gloucester Road clientèle and beyond. Commendably facilitating good quality, locally-sourced and free-range/organic produce, the cuisine is as fresh and wholesome as the attention-to-detail is ever-present – both of which, conjugated with the upbeat attitude of those running the show, ensures a notably positive experience. Plus, offering a different deal each day, visitors to this friendly, inviting space are spoiled for choice in terms of how to save the pennies – and so, to give you some idea, you could partake in the following - Pie and a Pint Monday, Cocktail Tuesdays (whereby such tasty concoctions as an Espresso Martini and the curiously named 'Tom's Lemon Cheesecake are just £4 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm), Wine-Loving Wednesdays (where all varieties; glasses and bottles are offered with 25% off) and of course, the weekly Sunday roast, (which even includes a vegan option). Consequently, the BFF and I could have opted to stay put for a second round of reasonably-priced 'Pinots' but alas, another outburst of raucous laughter, courtesy of our inebriated friend, caused a sudden change of heart...However, a re-visit is most certainly in the offing and if for nothing else, in order to get my hands on that rather ample cocktail list – incidentally, is anyone free this coming Tuesday...?!

And now for the second opinion...

Te BFF gave The Social a rating of 8/10 and in three words, quipped, 'less laughter please'!

References:

*http://www.groupon.co.uk/deals/bristol

*http://thesocialbarcafe.weebly.com/

*http://www.spzero76.com/

Bordeaux Quay – V Shed, Canons Way, Bristol

With so many strings to its bow given its status as a restaurant, brasserie, deli and wine bar, as well the home of the Bristol School of Food and Wine, it was unanimously envisioned that Bordeaux Quay would amount to nothing less than a masterpiece in terms of its culinary expertise. Subsequently, with a coveted Groupon* for a three course meal for two at the restaurant within our possession, it was fair to say that the Best Foodie Friend (BFF) and I were really rather excited about this particular dinner-date - with our table booked and the evening in question rapidly approaching, we simply couldn't wait to discover whether this prestigious venue exceeded our high expectations...

Date and Time: Thursday 12^th January 2012, 19:00

Name of Establishment: Bordeaux Quay: The Restaurant*

Location: V-Shed, Canons Way - Bristol

Reason for Visit: Pre-Christmas Groupon purchase which the BFF and I couldn't wait to take advantage of!

Ushered up a grand wooden staircase to the second floor by our smartly attired host, the BFF and I were, in the first instance, invited to indulge in pre-dinner drinks amidst the plushly decorated lounge. Opting to kick-start the proceedings with a French 75 (£9.50) proved to be an exquisite experience; the cocktail itself comprising a decadent combination of Hendricks Gin, fresh lemon juice and sugar with a crisp measure of Perrier-jouët grand brut champagne to constitute a little fizz. However, its piste de resistance was to follow whereby, upon serving, a procedure took place which was as impressive as it was, no doubt, integral to the finished article's important balance of sweetness and tart. As, with a wave of his hands and a spritz or two from a small spray-bottle into the atmosphere above the glass, the bar-tender dispensed a fine mist of citrus oil which lent to the concoction the smell of old-school sherbet lemons and facilitated the fresh, palate-cleansing quality of what I consider the perfect aperitif. The BFF chose an Italian White; a 2009 Verdicchio Classico (Villa Bianchi, Umani Ronchi) which, at £4.50 for 175ml was vibrantly fruity with a distinct nuttiness - lovely.

Next, and with our slightly sipped drinks in tow, The BFF and I were shown to an intimately-placed table-for-two in the venue's elegant restaurant which, we were pleased to find overlooked the twinkling lights of the harbour below. This is a sophisticated space with high ceilings and a spacious ambiance as well as minimalistic décor which is punctuated with contemporary wall art and the odd touch of opulent flair. Tables had been dressed with crisp white linen and each line-up of polished silverware gleamed under the glow omitted from the chunky light fittings overhead which, coupled with sporadic candlelight contributed to an inviting and laid-back vibe. Top-end restaurants can so often lean towards being stuffy resulting in all manner of the 'we are not worthy' practice of whispered conversation but luckily this could not have been further from the case - our server, for instance, proving chatty and sweet as well as courteous and efficient; a rarity which reinforced, somewhat, our first impressions of this venue. To that end, we were firstly invited to choose from a rather well-stocked bread basket which, including the likes of malted sour dough and ciabatta, had been freshly baked on the premises that very morning. Encouraged to take more than just one piece eradicated any sense of adhering to an etiquette (whereby the question of; 'will I look like a glutton if I pile my dainty side-plate with carbs?!' did not have to enter one's mind) and being asked to pick from no less than four types of table water (we chose filtered tap), heightened our awareness of being within the domain of what we recognised as 'fine dining' at its finest!

Complimentary canapés came next which consisted of two pairs of bite-sized morsels; the first, a halved, deep-fried brussel sprout which, sandwiching a thin layer of anchovy paste, constituted an unusual union of two distinctively flavoursome foodstuffs. The second, a puffed gruyère cheese round with a creamy filling also packed quite a punch – in fact, so much so that, it's got to be said, I could have consumed a number more quite happily: yum! This amply whetted our appetites in readiness for the timely arrival of our starters; Root vegetable and roast pepper terrine with romanesco cauliflower for the BFF and Duck liver, mostarda di vaghera and pork terrine for me. Both dishes were beautifully presented, textbook in terms of the presence of colour and contrasting both in texture and taste. With so much going on, my terrine was unbelievably tasty; chunky and satisfying with crisp ciabatta toasts, an aromatic basil purée as well as a generous measure of orange and cranberry chutney to accompany the main event. 

Duck Liver, Mostarda di Vaghera and Pork Terrine

Root Vegetable and Roast Pepper Terrine

Next, and following an appropriate wait between courses, our mains made their grand appearance. I had opted for the Rainbow chard, pine nut and goats cheese rotolo which, brushed with a saffron and sage butter, established a rich array of flavours across a varied spectrum; with low earthy notes giving way to a delicately fragrant after-taste – wow. The BFF had chosen to treat herself to the dish of chargrilled beef fillet, braised shin and oxtail; an experience which rendered her speechless for several minutes! When she regained her poise, she commented that this was, without a doubt, one of the best meals she'd ever had – the meat proving expertly cooked and the grilled polenta and roast garlic purée proving the perfect accompaniments.

Rainbow Chard, Pine Nut and Goats Cheese Rotolo

Finally dessert and the chocolate fondant for me and the duo of strudel for the BFF. Now, it's increasingly commonplace for me to scour a venue's menu in advance of a visit to check for dishes (usually puddings) that particularly appeal, (come on, we all do this, right?!) The downside is the danger of building anticipation; crushable with that first tentative mouthful. Although sometimes, the concept of a pre-planned pud surpasses one's expectations and this was, without a doubt, one of those occasions. A perfectly executed dessert if ever I saw one – moist sponge encasing a warm liquid chocolate centre served alongside an ample scoop of white chocolate ice cream and finished with a dusting of crumbled praline, (whoa, reliving the experience is almost as satisfying!) The ice cream was a marvel in itself; its defined sweetness accented with notes of vanilla just danced on the palate. The BFF was equally as impressed with her strudel – she described the ricotta and raisin fusion as 'decadently creamy' and reported that coupling pear with macademia nut brought about a tasty, full-bodied flavour. A frosty ball of apple sorbet completed her dish; it's refreshing zing proving an interesting angle to the originality of its overall arrangement.

Duo of Strudel

Chocolate Fondant

Consequently, a fantastic night at a top-end restaurant; the faultless fare, polished yet comfortable surroundings and personable service made for an unforgettable experience. A glimpse at the price tags allocated to the dishes we had ordered warranted that sharp intake of breath; prices which, of course, were not applicable on this particular evening due to our beloved Groupon print-out. For a special occasion however - one that demands the wow-factor - this is clearly the place to book a table! Given that the restaurant's menu is altered Monthly in order to facilitate fresh, seasonal produce and to promote the provenance of the ingredients sourced, there is enough in terms of diversity to keep Bordeaux Quay's loyal following on-board. This, in addition to the fact that there are other aspects of this establishment to explore, (which, if the attention to quality is universal, will be well worth a visit), has certainly made me eager to return – the only problem is, with such a fantastic foodie foray to mark the beginning of 2012; the benchmark for fine dining has been well and truly set, I challenge Bordeaux Quay's counterparts to even come close...!

And now for the second opinion...

The BFF gave Bordeaux Quay a rating of 10/10 and in three words, described her evening as, 'rich', 'refined' and 'sublime' – praise indeed and deservingly so.

References:

*http://www.groupon.co.uk/deals/bristol

*http://www.bordeaux-quay.co.uk/restaurant

Mackenzies Café/Bar – Canons Road, Bristol

Prior knowledge of the somewhat liberal Happy Hour offered at roomy, river-side café-come-bar, Mackenzies, made it the obvious choice for an early-evening drinks and download session with good friend, 'D'. Though this review will also draw on previous experience of the venue's cheap and cheerful fare, the fundamental aspect of this particular visit - to indulge in a number of reasonably-priced beverages - will ultimately take centre stage...

Date and Time: Saturday 7^th January 2012, 17:45

Name of Establishment: Mackenzies Café and Bar*

Location: Canons Road, Bristol

Reason for Visit: A Banter 'n Booze Bonanza!

Starting as we meant to go on, friend 'D' and I got the drinks in...Given that 'D' is predominantly of the pie 'n pint persuasion and in light of the fact that it was well within the remit of the aforementioned Happy (three) Hour(s), (which run from 5:00pm until 8:00pm Monday to Friday, all day Wednesday, and from 3:00pm on a Sunday; if you're after the specifics) it became inevitable that I indulge in a double-dose of Mojito action! Although admittedly this is, on the large part, my cocktail of choice, the BOGOF offer denotes that both concoctions must be the same variety and so, one is somewhat denied the luxury of 'mixing it up'! That said, the friendly, laid-back staff were more-than-happy to stagger my drink order so to eradicate the possibility of a crushed ice melt-down which could have so easily watered down what I found to be its rather generous alcohol content! Furthermore, although I doubt that the resident ‘mixologists’ will be winning any awards for their efforts, it's fair to say that cocktails are both accurately blended and respectably presented which, given their humble price tag, is commendable even outside of the ‘Happy Hour’ deal. Meanwhile, 'D' began on his pint of Amstel which, amidst the modern surroundings; featuring comfortable leather-effect furniture, a spacious ambiance and neutral décor, seemed to go down rather well. As the evening progressed however, it was noted how chilly the space had become, not to mention the distinct lack of clientèle. If truth be told, the night was young and I'm well aware that 'D' and I were visiting well before the onslaught of the late-night socialites and yet, given its harbourside location, (which incidentally, was a rather covetable destination during my teeny-bopper era given its reliable vibrancy) it was for me, uncharacteristically tame!

The next negative conveniently leads me to discuss the venue's cuisine – a low point due to the abrupt manner in which it ceased to be available (signalled promptly at 6:00pm with a flourish of menu collation) and not its content…surely offering Bristol’s hungry masses the option of affordable edibles well into their Saturday-night festivities would warrant a number more bums on seats and thus, the buzz that I found myself craving...no, expecting. The tapas-style mini plates at three for £10 and five for £15 are, by far, the highlight of the menu – three proving enough to share with a gal pal (during a previous visit) and including the likes of Lemongrass King Prawn Skewers (served with peanut sauce and mango salsa), Spicy Chicken Quesadillas and Calamari. Besides this, it would probably be easier to document what Mackenzies do not offer in light of their bulging menu which spans a number of culinary classics; from healthy salads, grills and burgers to stone-baked pizzas, Mexican Fajitas and the age-old tradition of sausage and mash. You can also opt for brunch (whereby the breakfast rolls, made with baked foccacia particularly caught my eye), Sunday lunch or even bring the kids who have a menu dedicated to their needs, (a thoughtfully arranged menu led by its nutritional content rather then the quick-fix of chicken nuggets and chips!) The dessert list was, in my view, seriously lacking any pizazz but overall, can we assume that this venue has fallen victim to the commonly found beast whereby attempting to achieve too much with the content of one’s menu can prove overwhelming for those choosing from it? If this is the case, it arguably spreads very thinly the care and attention applied to each dish and therefore, could potentially allow for an imbalance in terms of the quality versus quantity debate – yes, that old chestnut!

In conclusion, despite constituting the third 'Mackenzies' in the South-West, (the others, situated in Swindon and Cirencester, seeming just as well executed in terms of their fresh minimalistic appeal as per the images on the venue's website) it has not yet found its niche – instead, it proves a chameleon of an establishment which flits between the realms of affordable eatery, café and bar. There are promotions-a-plenty which attract families to its fare by day and a pre-club fan base to its well-stocked bar (and makeshift dance floor) by night. I think that visiting as an individual, outside of these anticipated bands of clientèle is perhaps where the waters become muddied – an ambiguity which could be addressed with a little consideration of the venue's intended ethos. In light of this, revising the opening hours of the kitchen may be the first step to ensure that the average Joe isn't left hanging in the event of yearning for a little snacketteTai, Cosmopolitan and Pina Colada to name but a few) as well as the pleasant surroundings which embody that relaxed, almost continental vibe, you could definitely do a lot worse!

And now for the male opinion...

Friend 'D' gave Mackenzies Café and Bar a rating of 7/10 and in three words, expressed his criteria for a return-visit – 'later tapas please'!

References:

*http://www.mackenzies.co.uk/

Za Za Bazaar – Harbourside, Canons Road

It’s fair to say that the opening of the South West’s largest restaurant in our humble city has split the camp somewhat amongst us Bristolians – on one hand there has been a degree of apprehension (with premature comparisons to the likes of Flavourz and Cosmo being arrogated) and on the other, there are those who have eagerly anticipated a decent replacement for the Baja nightclub that formally occupied the space in all its teeny bopper glory! Being of the latter mindset and considering the impressive statistics doing the rounds online and in the press, I was really rather excited to be invited to attend a pre-launch taster session alongside representatives from a number of local businesses and the City's ever-present student population in advance of its official opening to the general public on the 1^st December 2011...

Date and Time: Tuesday 30^th November 2011, 19:00

Name of Establishment: Za Za Bazaar

Location: Harbourside, Canons Road - Bristol

Reason for Visit: Special pre-opening night taster for local businesses of which The Boy and I attended on behalf of the all important business of food blogging!

Stepping around the last of the workmen and into the sublime foyer of Za Za Bazaar, it became instantly clear that although the aesthetics of the space had been glitteringly perfected, the practicalities had not yet followed suit. However, despite learning of last-minute difficulties with the door locking system and hearing, throughout the course of the evening, various alarms cut through the globally-inspired soundtrack overhead, (not to mention witnessing the comings and goings of a number of hi-vis clad bodies from the lofty heights of our intimately placed table-for-two), this only momentarily punctuated the overall buzz of the venue's successful night-market concept (and the sense of culinary adventure that it brought about) with a collective awareness of first-night jitters.

Arriving a little shy of our seven-till-nine time slot, The Boy and I were initially shown through to the downstairs bar, delighting in its spacious, ambient feel. Tastefully decorated with equal measures of opulence and quirk as well as channelling elements of far-off lands, pastel-coloured paper lanterns, hang in clusters and a mosaic of cut-out z-shapes reinforce the venue's branding whilst drawing one's attention upwards! Not for long though as the bronze shine of the bar gleams from its central focal point. Here, the polished performance of the resident mixologists more than made up for any of the technical hiccups that we perceived thus far as, both friendly and knowledgeable, The Boy and I were expertly directed towards beverages suited to our particular preferences; he, a Singha Thai beer (£3.95) at 5% with a decidedly crisp bite and I, a Twisted French Martini (£5.95), a sweet and tart aggregation of Stoli vodka, raspberry, vanilla and fresh pineapple. Whilst we're on the subject of cocktails, there is a phenomenal line-up including those tried-and tested classics as well as a range inspired by four of the seven continents; America, Europe, Antarctica and Asia – of the latter, the Masala Mojito especially appealed with its mix of Mount Gay rum and bitters with fresh mint – lovely, (especially given the Happy Hour deal which runs from 5-7pm, Monday to Friday!) Besides this and perhaps expected of a venue incensed by world-wide stimulus, there is an extensive range of beers, wines and spirits on offer including varieties seldom available elsewhere. Furthermore, whilst sipping at my pungently prepared concoction, I studied the menu of bar food – with small plates and sharers as well as a lunch menu, sandwiches and the fantastic and filling range for those with a more hearty appetite, there is certainly something to suit each and every want which is, in fact, undoubtedly the over-arching ethos of this establishment.

Later, making our way upstairs to the restaurant and lining up to be seated warranted our first glimpse of the seven shiny stations (namely, Indian, European, Tex Mex, Far East, Salads, Desserts and, of course, the Bar) – all of which sported neon signs, promoting that street-food, help-yourself vibe and most importantly, attracting diners to sample its wares. The Boy and I reasoned that it would be wise to visit the furthest culinary cube from where we sat in the first instance and so, began our foodie foray at the Indian cuisine, finding an authentically spiced and delicately fragrant collection of dishes including Butter Chicken, Goan Fish Curry and Lamb Rogan Josh. Plus, with an amazing scope of starters and sides - including Dosa, freshly baked flat-breads and Tandoori Aloo,we were spoiled for choice and could have easily maxed-out our appetites at this station alone. However, a little self-discipline allowed us to move on to the European selection whereby The Boy commented that the Piri Piri chicken was the highlight of the evening for him without question. Here, I opted to bypass the Great British classics as although I appreciated the novelty of fish, chips and mushy peas, I considered it too heavy an option for a endeavour of this kind. Furthermore, the pizza, although flavoursome, proved a little limp in texture – the meat feast in particular lost its topping as soon as it was lifted from the plate! Onto the Tex Mex pod and the burger bar which proved an unquestionable hit with its seeded wholemeal buns, vast range of fresh fillings and succulent home-made beef patties which, incidentally, are cooked specifically to your taste. The burritos and fajitas are also made to order and given that the one-off dining price is so reasonable (see details below), I would visit for this section alone. To compliment this particular fare, we found tacos and nachos (of both regular and tomato/paprika varieties) which can be topped with a range of beans and chillis. The Chilli Con Carne was a winner for me, embodying the perfect balance of rich meat and tomato alongside the warmth of sweet chilli and an exotic aroma constituted by a combination of spices. My full stomach prevented too thorough an inspection of the Far East pod but The Boy commented that the noodles which were prepared at his request, were a tad on the soggy side. I must admit that the salad and sushi were also rather neglected on this occasion but unable to resist, The Boy just had to check out the quality of the hummus which he concluded was a little thin but well seasoned and encompassing that distinctively home-made coarseness. At this point, my dessert stomach came into play and arming myself with a plate, filled it with a variety of macaroons (some more accurately executed than others), the girliest cupcake I could find (from a huge selection presented over three tiers) and a range of bite-sized desserts; Tiramisu, Panna Cotta and Crème Brûlée to name but a few. Pleased with my selection, less the Crème Brûlée which disappointingly lacked its characteristically crunchy topping, I noted that I could have also chosen to partake in the delights of a chocolate fountain, healthily opted for fresh fruit or even helped myself to a 'Mr Whippy' ice cream cornet which, topped with hundreds and thousands, was nothing less than the real deal! An array of Indian desserts completed the bill; the Rasmali (Saffron scented milk balls flavoured with pistachio) particularly appealed but alas, I simply couldn't eat another thing!

Cupcake Heaven!

Macaroon Madness!

In conclusion, Za Za Bazaar is clearly an ambitious venture and yet, in the grand tradition of the all-you-can-eat buffet, it knocks spots off the aforementioned alternatives. International chef Nitin Bhatnagar and his talented workforce clearly strive to ensure that the notorious quality versus quantity debate remains dormant given the calibre of the chefs that have been appointed and the fierce attention to detail that exists at every turn – the success of these efforts derive a distinct lack of the hit and miss culture which can typically be associated with the quality of the ingredients used in an establishment of this kind. Sure, there will always remain dishes that are not quite to one's taste but for that reason only and not because they have been poorly cooked or would be better placed on an Iceland Party Platter! In my opinion though, there are a handful of concerns which I hope will addressed in due course – firstly, I feel that the size of the venue could prove as much of a hindrance as it is its unique-selling-point. It's all very well to allow for a capacity of over 700 diners and yet, with a full-house, the traffic generated at each station would surely prove chaotic and unpleasant - nothing that a little crowd control couldn’t fix however! In addition to this, the simple logistics of travelling from the furthest pod back to your seat with an un-warmed plate of food will inevitably result in a less-than-perfect dining experience (especially in terms of certain dishes, Fajitas for instance, which should be sizzling upon serving). Most colossally though, the lack of information for nut allergy sufferers (of which The Boy qualifies) is most certainly an issue - although the labels (albeit more often than not incorrectly positioned) signify vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options, they exclude this rather more life-threatening condition! As a result, The Boy had to ask at each canteen which dishes would be safe for him to indulge in without being caused any significant damage – luckily, the accommodating staff were more-than-happy to oblige but, I feel, adding this information to the description of each dish (and ensuring that they are in the right place) would be preferable for complete peace of mind. I will definitely return to this venue, the service is faultless and the quality, and diversity, of the fare is indubitably top-notch. As my review reflects, there is infinite choice and far too much to appreciate during a single visit – thus, I am already planning my second....and third visit....in order to gain the utmost from the Za Za Bazaar experience!

And now for the male opinion...

The Boy gave Za Za Bazaar a rating of 8/10 and in three words, described it as, 'best buffet experience'.

References:

*http://zazabazaar.com/index.html

Lunch buffet - £6.99 Monday-Friday and £9.99 Saturday and Sunday

Evening buffet - £12.99 Monday to Thursday and £15.99 Friday to Sunday