Veeno, Bristol

Hold the phone lunchtime lushes and aprés-office party people, I have a newfound fave that offers the best in that winning combination of meat, cheese and wine. It's not a coincidence that I've visited Bristol's branch of Veeno* three times in the space of a week (yes, really) so I think it's high time I shared the reasons for this dedication/obsession (delete as you see fit)....

Date and Time: Erm, shall we just say February 2017?!

Name of Establishment: Veeno

Location: 1 Glass Wharf, Temple Way

Reason for Visit: In no particular order...Meat, cheese and wine!

‘How do I love thee? Let me count the ways’…Or, here is my comprehensive list which details Veeno’s most attractive attributes. Enjoy…

- It’s suitably located for the worker bees inhabiting the offices that adorn Temple Quay and thus, Veeno is an ample go-to for a spot of luncheon, a client meeting (if that’s your bag) or after-work drinky-poos - the latter suitably enhanced by the hours of Aperitivo (or, ‘Aperiveeno’ if you will) which means that complimentary nibbles are brought to your table with any drink purchased between 17:00 and 20:00.

- Veeno serves Sicilian wines from the founders' family’s vineyard which dates back four generations. This, along with authentic Italian Spuntini – or, little snacks and appetisers to enhance your tipple – means that the quality of the ingredients is quite simply cracking. To that end, try the Gorgonzola with a touch of the truffle honey and the Salame di Cervo (super tasty air-dried venison) with a glass of the Giumara, Nero d’Avola. So.Good!

- A selection of the restaurant’s most-popular wines and products are available to purchase to take-away. You can also order via Deliveroo* (so I’m told…hurry up and service North Bristol for pity's sake!) or from Veeno’s online store; meaning that you can feed and water yourself from the comfort of your own home. Just don't mention the 'Skinny Prosecco' which is seemingly the most recent string to this venue’s bow and in my opinion, rather too gimmicky to establish itself alongside the finer wines on offer. It may well taste fantastic – containing less residual sugar will ultimately create a drier, perhaps crisper finish - but the cringeworthy name just has to go!

- The lunchtime deal whereby any standard Panini is accompanied by a complimentary glass of wine (or soft drink for the faint-hearted) is an absolute bargain. I mean, a humble fiver for a generously portioned ensemble of Nduja (spicy, spreadable sausage), mozzarella and sundried tomato paté sandwiched within a crisp Piadina, swilled down with the house rosé – a rich, fruity Syrah – is unquestionably a no brainer!

- The service is spot on. You know that fine balance between remaining attentive and becoming invasive? Veeno have it just right. This makes for a comfortable atmosphere; even if you happen to be sitting on your own…I was waiting for a friend, honestly!

- Veeno offer wine tasting sessions for not a lot of dollar. Wine flights start from £10 per person and the classic tasting (priced at just under £20) is made up of six wines which are paired with Spuntini; the sixth a dessert wine to accompany a portion of homemade Tiramisu! You can purchase gift cards too which arguably constitutes the perfect pressie…Hey, isn’t Mother’s Day coming up? (Sorry to ruin the surprise Mama Ros…) Furthermore, sign up to receive news and information as part of the ‘Veeno Club’ and you receive a complimentary tasting on your birthday – I don’t think I’ve ever filled in an online form so quickly!

- The menu is informative and the staff knowledgeable which means that you can be guided towards your perfect combination of meat and cheese, plus, the ideal wine or wines to pair with your spoils. Tasting notes for pretty much everything on the menu really aids the selection process without having to bother the staff with a million and one questions.

- I haven’t got as far as the wine cocktails yet but the Veenopolitan is at the top of my list for the next time I visit (which, let’s face it, will probably be within the next few days!) It mixes that aforementioned house rosé with vodka, peach juice and fresh strawberries – a combination which could fool you into thinking that it’s summer...well, maybe! I’m aware that this isn’t exactly a reason but a menu that includes original cocktails – along with a handful of my absolute faves (yes, Espresso Martini) – is surely a win. 

- Finally, presentation – they say that you taste with your eyes prior to taking the first mouthful and…well…just look at this...

Need I say more...?

References:

*http://www.theveenocompany.com/veeno-bristol-wine-bar

*https://deliveroo.co.uk

Filini - Radisson Blu Hotel, Broad Quay

Situated within the Radisson Blu Hotel which towers over central Bristol, Filini offers Italian fare from 12:00 noon each day. With specialty dishes based on Sardinian cuisine and classic cooking techniques fuelled with quality ingredients, I had high hopes for the Sunday brunch that I had booked for my dining companion and I via Groupon*; bagging a voucher which entitled us to three courses, plus a glass of vino each for under £20; bargain.

Date and Time: Sunday 17 May 2015, 12:00 noon
Name of Establishment: Filini*
Location: Radisson Blu Hotel, Broad Quay, Bristol
Reason for Visit: The lure of one of the many daily-deal websites and the budget blowouts that they allow for.

Ascending the stairs to the first floor where Filini is situated - after touring the bar area in search of other diners (which unsurprisingly, we didn't find) - we were pleased to be met with a smile by the restaurant's waiting staff. Whereas those in the bar had ignored us completely, we were greeted warmly and efficiently informed of the rules of our deal by the server assigned to our table-for-two. We were seated in a prime location for people-watching; the panoramic views of Bristol's centre proving the clear USP of this establishment whilst, crisp lines and a maroon colour-scheme seemed to lend to the space a sophisticated air. That said, familiar attributes synonymous with a hotel culture well and truly boxed Filini within the bland camp; take the 'easy listening' soundtrack for example, or the artificial foliage at every turn - hence, nothing too offensive but all a little predictable!

Antipasti wasn't nasty...

A staple Student Special?!

Our 'house' vino arrived and I have to say that I was pretty impressed with the rosé which was deliciously fruity and rich on the palate. I'm assuming that this was the Conto Vecchio Pinot Grigio Blush given that it's the only rosé that can be purchased by the glass; nevertheless, it appropriately complimented our starters which we assembled ourselves from a buffet of antipasti. If I'm honest, I wasn't expecting brunch to be a 'self-service' affair and yet, you could say that this was just another of those aforementioned hotel-habits that I really should have anticipated! You can't really go wrong with cold meats, olives, grilled vegetables and salad; all of which were fresh and plentiful. A lively ensemble of breads and oils constituted a tasty accompaniment to both first and second courses; the flat bread seasoned with salt and rosemary proving a particular favourite for me. On to the mains and let's first discuss the two primary issues with help-yourself hotel dining...Number one; food items left to rest upon hot plates are partial to dryness and number two; dishes made 'en masse' are typically of a lesser quality than those executed on an individual basis, (true story). As a result, I would describe the dishes comprising the main event as a little hit and miss - the haddock, served with an orange reduction and seasoned with fennel and black pepper was arguably the star of the show given its melt-in the mouth appeal and delicate balance of flavours. My dining companion preferred the chicken which had been roasted with lemon, thyme and artichoke and we both enjoyed the seasonal green vegetables (though these ran out rather quickly) and spring pea and ricotta risotto; the latter's creamy consistency just about making up for its questionable appearance! And on that note, that is where the positives end; although the chicken was tasty, it was extremely salty, a failing also true of the rosemary roasted potatoes that were in fact so salty, they were decidedly inedible! The 'Penne Pasta Bolognaise' proved disappointingly banal and the sausages were anaemic to the eye and although they just about passed in terms of taste, could have definitely benefited from a good deal longer in the oven.

Sponsored by Sodium?!

Desserts didn't fare especially well either - the Tiramisu, if you can describe it as such, was probably the worst attempt I've ever encountered due to the distinct lack of coffee (well, and booze if you're going to do it properly)  It was basically an over-frothed mass of synthetic cream and flabby sponge with a hint of something syrupy-sweet that if truth be told, remained unidentified. Luckily, the lemon mousse was quite the opposite with its fresh citrus zing and smooth disposition. The bite-sized brownies were a touch dry but the mini cheesecakes were simple yet appetising – I think I managed at least four! I washed pudding down with a cappuccino which, despite being well-made, almost certainly contained full-fat milk rather than the skimmed variation that Id asked for.

In conclusion, a real mixed bag in terms of the fare which was spot-on in places and seriously lacking in others. My dining companion and I overheard our neighbours rather openly discussing their (similar) sentiments which does seem a shame given the hotel's decision to showcase their restaurant using Groupon as a means to getting bums on seats. In other words, they are sharing these shortcomings with a multitude of people who have dined at a subsidised rate and as such, may be reluctant to return at full price, (which amazingly, comes in at over £20 a head). Incidentally, they may not also be so diplomatic in their response. I mean, I took awhile to peruse the dinner menu, considering the notion that when made to order, dishes could be executed to a better standard and attractively plated, particularly in light of the ingredients which have, without doubt, been thoughtfully sourced. I did wince at the £11 price tag for a Pizza Margherita however but for now, my judgement beyond the botch-up with brunch remains undetermined so, until then...

And now for the second opinion...
My dining companion gave Filini a rating of 6/10 and drew from her experience the following three words; 'salt, salt, salt!' I mean really...we were re-hydrating for the rest of the day!

References:
* http://www.groupon.co.uk/vouchers/bristol
*http://www.filinirestaurant.com/restaurantbristol

Pizza Express, Bristol Harbourside (The Express Lunch Menu)

As a household name and with approximately 400 restaurants located country-wide, the chances that you've experienced Pizza Express in at least one of its varying capacities is incredibly likely. Yet, you may not be aware of the brand-new Express Lunch menu which is currently being trialled from Monday to Friday in selected outlets. The intention is to deliver light, tasty and affordable fare within the confines of one's lunch-hour; a concept which I'm confident will appeal to the masses of nearby businesses given the multitude of office-types that dashed past the window, pre-packed sandwich in hand, whilst my lovely mum and I enjoyed a far more civilised affair. 

Date and Time: Thursday 8^th May 2014, 13:00 

Name of Establishment: Pizza Express* 

Location: Unit 1, Building 8, Harbourside, Bristol, 

Reason for Visit: An invitation to sample the 'Express Lunch' Menu 

Settling at our aforementioned table-for-two with a view, M and I noted the light, airy quality of the space. The rain, which had soaked us on route from the centre, became a distant memory in light of the friendly service and a rich, buzzy ambiance; the latter constituting the establishment's varied clientèle and the hustle and bustle emitted from its open-plan kitchen. That said, I have to mention the mix-up that occurred upon our arrival whereby it transpired that our reservation had been all but lost as the online system had crashed. I therefore had to explain the purpose of my visit – basically, that I had been invited, on a complimentary basis, to sample the Express Lunch menu in return for a comprehensive review – rather uncomfortable for those involved and not at all a case of...do you know who I am?! Awkwardness aside, our server (Kasia) was both amiable and efficient; guiding M and I towards her favourites from the menu and encouraging us to begin with drinks and olives, (not that we took a lot of convincing). You might say that, a bold Merlot (£4.35) for M and a crisp Pinot Grigio spritzer (£4.75) for yours truly wasn't particularly in keeping with the return-to-work role play we had undertaken – yet, in reality and seemingly unlike a lot of our fellow diners, we had the luxury of time given that we didn't actually have to return to a workplace – win!

On to the menu itself and options which are priced from as little as £3.45. The soups - Tomato & Basil and Roasted Butternut & Parsley - were not available during our visit and yet, coupled with the venue's signature dough (hand-rolled, slow-baked and served with garlic butter), would no doubt satisfy a smaller appetite, (though perhaps not entirely suit an afternoon with any form of one-on-one contact...hello garlic breath!) 'Romanita' pizzas and lunchtime salads have also been appropriately portioned to typify a hearty snack as opposed to a hefty nosh-up. Both M and I opted for one of the new Piadinas (£4.95); the self-proclaimed 'pick of the bunch' comprising the venue's famous dough which is baked with Gran Moravia cheese, sliced and filled with a multitude of fresh ingredients. I chose the Italian Meat Piadina which had been layered, rather liberally, with cured Finocchiona, Milano, Coppa, light mozzarella, sun-dried tomato, rocket, pesto and finally, drizzled with a good quality olive oil. The explosion of flavours which ensued proved perfectly balanced in terms of texture and taste – not to mention, absolutely delicious! M decided upon the Chicken Avocado Piadina which was as equally well-received. We also shared a portion of polenta chips (£2.35) which, sprinkled with parmesan and plated alongside a punchy honey and mustard dipping sauce, were the perfect accompaniment to our Piadinas – though personally, I'd advise against sharing if your appetite allows! 

At present, the a la carte menu is offered in addition to the Express Lunch menu which I thought may compromise the speed of delivery in terms of the dishes that we ordered but I'm pleased to say that this wasn't the case. That said, the open-plan kitchen meant that M and I could ogle at the chefs in action; the frantic duo managing the workload admirably. Though had the restaurant proved any busier, I think they may well have struggled. 

We concluded the afternoon's eating with a 'mini dessert' each to accompany our cappuccino; for me, the Double Chocolate Espresso Torta with its bitter-sweet ganache and crunchy biscuit base and for M, the home-made Chocolate Fudge Cake which, served chilled, wouldn't have necessarily been my bag but was nonetheless, exactly as billed and, I’d suggest, thoroughly enjoyed! Moreover, for an extra £2 when ordering a hot drink, these not-so bite-sized puds are fantastic value for money and an ideal way to round-up a lighter-lunch for those with a sweet tooth! 

All in all, I'd suggest that the Express Lunch menu has achieved exactly what it set out to do. Although larger appetites remain catered for as per the a la carte menu, the initial objectives have almost certainly been met via a ‘light, tasty and affordable’ assortment of dishes. Plus, although on this occasion, M and I had time on our side, we agreed that we could have easily tailored our visit to adhere to the confines of one’s working-day; altogether owing to our prompt server, the hard-work of those in the kitchen and most importantly, the appropriate simplicity of the lunchtime fare. If only I could move my office into the hubbub of the city centre from its secluded Bristol suburb in order to ditch my home-made sarnies in favour of the appetising alternatives contained within this nine-to-five-friendly menu! 

And now for the second opinion...

Mum gave the Express Lunch menu a rating of 9/10 and in three words, described the fare as, ‘perfect lunchtime cuisine’.

References:

*http://www.pizzaexpress.com/visit-a-restaurant/restaurant/bristol-harbourside/

ASDA's 'Extra Special' Vino Collection - Winter 2013

It has to be said that being invited to sample ASDA’s ‘Extra Special’ wine collection – expertly selected for the festive season - really kick-started those ‘warm and fuzzies’; y’know, the ones so commonly affiliated with this time of year and the selflessness of giving! Thus, rounding up my nearest and dearest, I did what any aspiring wine buff would do and conducted a strategic series of high-brow tastings whereby the four red and two white wines I had been given were proficiently analysed …Not really; my friends, family and I had a great deal of fun; sipping, slurping and swishing our way through all six bottles, mopping up the alcohol content with a grotesque amount of cheese but most importantly, identifying several favourites that would no doubt see us through to the New Year...

White wine Tasting Panel: The Girls
‘Extra Special’ Fiano 2012 (Italian wine, 13%)
Reminiscent of 'a woodland walk on a crisp day', this was described as rustic and flavoursome; channelling notes of passion fruit, lemon and ripe apple. It's fresh finish heightened its appeal; making for an easily-drinkable wine. Delicious. 4/5

‘Extra Special’ Pinot Grigio 2012 (Italian wine, 12.5%)
With an undeniably acidic quality and tart apple aroma, this was quite a contrast to the oh-so-smooth Fiano. Yet, we agreed that whereas the delicate nature of the Fiano would be lost somewhat alongside a hearty dinner, the Pinot would cut through it, slapping you in the face with its almost abrasive twang Not a favourite. 1/5

Red wine Tasting Panel: The Parentals
Extra Special’ Nero d’Avola 2011 (Sicilian wine, 13%)
A pleasant red with rich, fruity aromas and ripened cherry notes. Establishing a rather dry after-taste which suitably contrasted the initial cheekiness which could have been mistaken for a shallow disposition which simply wasn’t the case – lovely! 4/5

‘Extra Special’ Cotes Du Rhone 2012 (French wine, 13%)
Is ‘mellow’ another word for bland? Perhaps so given that this particular tipple wasn’t especially well-received; it’s palatable peppery undertones proving its only redeeming feature. A ‘typical French plonk’ mused Dad with Mum adding, rather diplomatically, that it simply did not live up to its ‘Extra Special’ label. A shame… 2/5

‘Extra Special’ Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon 2011 (13.5%)
I've got a real thing for Chilean reds and this certainly didn't disappoint with admirable depth to its berry hues and an almost chocolaty after-taste, (trust me on this one)...Curious. 4.5/5

‘Extra Special’ Old Vines Garnacha, Syrah 2011 (Spanish wine, 14%)
Inadvertently, we saved the best for last…unusually unanimous in our decision that this was by far, our favourite! Full-bodied with a decadently, fruity bouquet, this was a fantastically balanced wine which we considered a suitable accompaniment to all nature of cuisine yet palatable enough to drink on its own – the latter proving all too tempting for Dad who finished off the bottle! Wine with the wow-factor! 5/5

When you stop asking yourself whether I'm actually an alcoholic (I'm not, I was just very thirsty), you'll no doubt check out ASDA's 'Extra Special' wine range for yourself. Currently priced from just £5 a bottle, there are some absolute corkers which are perfect for the upcoming festivities. Furthermore, as 'Extra Special' denotes the partnership that ASDA have with Leith's School of Food and Wine, you know that you're in good hands – go on, get the party started...cheers!

References:
Website: www.asda.com
Tweet: @asda