Pinkman's Bakery - Park Street, Bristol

Starting a shiny new job within spitting distance of Bristol's Clifton Triangle has, without doubt, brought about a newfound appreciation of my lunch hour...not to mention the abundance of breakfast breaks and after-work snacks that I've been enjoying on account of the multitude of eateries so suddenly at my disposal. However, it seems that the jewel in the area's somewhat encrusted crown is the multi-foodie-functional 'dough-to' that is Pinkman's Bakery. Offering an array of appropriate edibles by day and wood-fired pizza and cocktail combos by night, this is an establishment that's big on quality bakes and smiley service; adhering to an ethos to ‘embrace the connections between the old and the new’ and thus, an attitude that keeps an eye on the past and an eye to the future. This means that ingredients are carefully sourced in order to craft products with passion and skill. An ambitious aim you might say...But wowee, does Pinkman’s deliver…!

Date and Time: March 2017 (to encapsulate visits past and the inevitable visits to come)

Name of Establishment: Pinkman’s Bakery*

Location: 85 Park Street, Bristol

Reason for Visit: To feed my illustrious addiction to carbs

You know that age-old adage of being as happy as a child in a sweet shop? Well, that was most certainly the sentiment that sprung to mind upon stepping into Pinkman’s for the very first time. Now, I want you to imagine a wide, wooden countertop adorned with row upon row of beautifully arranged bakes; tarts dusted with icing sugar, doughnuts oozing cream and cakes that glisten under spotlights that illuminate an army of showstoppers that would silence Paul Hollywood...well, probably! Add to this; plump buns, filled rolls, crusty flutes studded with hazelnuts and flaky pastries and you’d be close to the dazzling snapshot that I first indulged in on that day. As you stand in line, mid gaze and contemplating where on earth to start, the buttery scent of baking hits you which, coupled with the warm, breezy reception from the oh-so friendly workforce, really makes for a treat to the senses. I also love that the kitchen is open-plan so that you can sit, pretty much amidst the consistent hive of activity; particularly if, like me, you arrive for when the doors open at 7:30am as everything is freshly baked onsite for the day ahead.

Given the frequency of my visits, it would difficult to big-up everything that I’ve sampled to date. To that end, I will talk you through my top two choosings; the cinnamon pastry twist and Pinkman’s signature bake; the sour-dough-nut. The first are distributed like bon-bons from large glass bowls next to the till points but they certainly should not be considered an afterthought. Proving simple yet perfectly executed, the pastry is crisp and flavoursome but not overwhelmingly so which allows the spice of the cinnamon to warm the palate. The second is an absolute must and besides the fact that the overall composition is everything you’d want from a doughnut (and more), the flavours of the fillings - which change regularly - are deliciously on point. If you get the chance, bag yourself either the honeycomb or the mocha but quite frankly, pick a filling that you don’t mind licking from your hands and your face as this is not to be consumed in a ladylike manner...Oh yes, you’re going to get in a right old pickle...you might as well embrace it! There are, of course, healthier options available and the toasty granola that you can add to a self-assembled breakfast bowl is next to try on my list. I also have on good authority that the baked meatballs (available for lunch, dinner or as a pizza topping) are not to be missed; described by a pal as juicy and well-seasoned. Even the toast - priced at £2.50 for three doorstop-sized slices - is absolutely yum. Consequently, I think it’s fair to say that whatever you opt for, you’re on to a winner.

This flute is a beaut

Owing to my coffee habit, I have sampled both the flat white (on many an occasion I might add) and the espresso martini; the latter a snip at only £5. Coffee is sourced from the freehand roasters in Cornwall which makes for a smooth yet rich-tasting brew. If you’re a tea fiend like my beloved, you’ll be interested to know that it derives from Bristol’s Canton Tea Company; another enterprise with a whole lot of heart. What’s more, there are a range of juices and homemade drinks (such as lemonade and iced tea) on offer as well as an ample selection of alcoholic tipples to wash down your pizza - and at prices which won’t break the bank which is arguably rather unusual for this neck of the woods.

Overall, you really can’t beat the community feel that Pinkman’s Bakery has achieved. With ingredients sourced from some of Bristol’s best-loved businesses and the cheerful manner in which you’re greeted and looked after during your visit, you can’t help but harbour a soft spot for this hybrid of traditional baking and contemporary shine. I’m referring to the concept of classic bakes with a twist, influences, (both culinary and cultural) from around the world and the originality required to set Pinkman’s aside from its peers. I now have two favourite bakeries in Bristol….and one of them is Pinkman’s.

References:

*http://pinkmans.co.uk/

Pinkman’s Bakery is open for breakfast from 7:30am - Midday (Monday to Friday and  until 14:00 on weekends). The full menu (including pizza) is available daily from Midday.

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/

The Stable – Canons Road, Bristol

Monday 8th July 2013, 17:30

Following the success of their branches in Bridport and Weymouth – founders Nikki and Richard Cooper decided to bring pizza, pie and cider - the threesome underpinning The Stable's abundant appeal - to Bristol's bustling harbourside. It's fair to say that the days of Chicago Rock are long gone and with it perhaps even the questionable reputation that once went hand-in-hand with this particular after-dark 'strip'.Instead, snuggled between the quirky presence of No.1 Harbourside and the cultural buzz of The Watershed, The Stable is perfectly situated to bring this once chav-tastic hot spot bang up-to-date.

If you can't stand the heat...

Invited to visit on the evening before it opened its doors to the public, I entered this spacious, coolly-decorated space with intrigue – enjoying the upbeat service of 'The Stablehands', the expanse of bench style seating and thoughtful aesthetics, the latter in terms of lighting, style and sound. That said, the halogens overhead did elevate the temperature somewhat, though it's not every day that the great British summer time delivers us such balmy weather, (plus, sitting in front of the theatre-style kitchen really didn't help!)

The Well-Stocked Bar

The drinks menu is jam-packed with local ciders – over 60 to be exact - featuring the likes of Lyme Bay, Burrow Hill, Bridge Farm, Orchard Pig and Perry’s. If you can't decide on one, The Stable offers a 'tasting board' of five 1/3 pints for £7.50. To mop up the alcohol consumption, why not indulge in a pizza? Sampling as many slices as I could get my hands on (for research purposes of course), I noted - through piping hot mouthfuls – the stone-baked crispiness of the base which we later discovered constituted organic sough dough. What's more, generously topped, the range features a number of innovative creations; some paying homage to The Stable's new-found residency. Here, the Bristol Blaster combines locally-sourced pork, Naga chillies, garlic, red onion, basil leaves, mushroom, tomato and mozzarella – ark at ee! If you 'prefer a pie' there are several to choose from – the vegetarian option, generously filled with spiced sweet potato, butternut squash, spinach, goat's cheese and plum chutney, catapulting at once to the top of my 'to-dine' list along with the pizza pudding which is decadently slathered with hazelnut, chocolate and mascarpone...say no more right?! Main courses are priced between £8 and £14 which I feel is reasonable in light of the quality and care which comprises each dish. The breakfast/brunch menu also shows promise with an all-you-can-eat toast bar – just grill-iant (see what I did there!?)

Nomnomnomnom

Overall, I feel that The Stable will be an asset to the Harbourside – its ethos seems to fit with the city's sense of community as well as the awareness us Bristolians have in regards to the importance of the 'independent' (of homemade, honest and locally-sourced fare). Individual tastes and dietary requirements have been suitably accommodated and a passion for customer satisfaction is reassuringly apparent. I guess I'm saying that The Stable has the opportunity to shine where other establishments have faded into the background (especially within this largely hit and miss segment of the city-centre) – yet, with their three-point appeal and the substance which supports it, I'm almost certain that the brains behind this operation will triumph! 

References:
Email: http://stablepizza.com/

Tweet: @_TheStable

Breakfast/Brunch served between 8:00am and 11:00am

Main menu served between 12:00 noon and 9:30pm
Open ‘til 11:00pm daily

Severn Shed - The Grove, Bristol

I've spent rather a lot of time in Severn Shed of late; once for dinner, a couple of times to snack from the Tapas-style 'small plates' menu but predominantly, to make the most of the (quite frankly awesome) two-for-one cocktail deal which runs from 4:00pm till close every single day. And, what better to balance out this money-saving common sense than with a little silliness...yes, I'm referring to the drunken frivolities brought about by too many passion fruit daiquiris – a phenomenon lovingly identified amongst my nearest and dearest with the #blamedaiquiri hashtag, (yes, we really are that cool!) Consequently, besides documenting what one can expect to find in terms of this venue’s overall ambiance, as well as the edibles it has to offer, this post will primarily factor as an ode to my new-found favourite tipple…

Date and Time: Miscellaneous - there have been SO.MANY.VISITS!

Name of Establishment: Severn Shed*

Location: The Grove, Bristol

Reason for Visit: See above

Given its ties to the popular chain restaurant, Coal Bar and Grill, it is surely to be commended that Severn Shed has managed to retain its sense of independence; feeling notably different to other outlets set-up within this seven-part franchise. Bristol's alternative Coal for instance, which is aptly placed amidst the family-friendly hubbub that encompasses the eateries flanking the top floor of Cabot Circus, seeming really rather removed from the sophisticated décor and cool minimalism apparent within the enviable harbour-side location of its sibling. Yes, having once existed in its own right as a dining establishment, Severn Shed seems to be marketed at a slightly more adult audience - the smart marble-topped bar and impressively-arranged florals effectively channelling an orchestrated sense of finesse. Furthermore, the intrigue of a former boathouse rumoured to have once belonged to the legendary engineer, Isambard Kingdom Brunel, is always going to make for an engaging backdrop and, from the leather-effect booths that comprise the bar area to the alfresco action available from the river-side terrace, it is, in fact, only the emblem on the menu that links this venue to its parent company. Service is amply attentive and although I haven’t yet forgiven the boys behind the bar for my ‘birthday shot’ of 62% proof rum, it’s fair to say that an appropriate balance of friendly banter and welcomed standoffishness has been demonstrated during each and every visit.

The à la carte menu constitutes a mish-mash of (mostly) Mediterranean favourites which are accountable to Executive Chef, Antonio Dias; who originates from Coimbra, Portugal. Here, fresh fish, meat and seasonal produce is sourced, where possible, from local suppliers and from Chicken Schnitzel to Chimichanga, (hmm, not sure that Mexico is on the Med?!) and my personal favourite, the House Pizza – topped with Parma ham, goats cheese, artichoke, sun-dried tomato, rocket and fresh pesto – there really is something to suit every palate. For me, starting with a portion of the stone-baked garlic pizza bread (with melted cheese and caramelised red onion) is always a highlight, though you may wish to share this with a friend or two as it warrants a large appetite to finish the whole thing, especially of you are going to indulge yourself with that aforementioned House Pizza! Speaking of sharing, the small plates (available at £10.95 for three) are perfect if you’re after a range of tasty morsels to accompany a drink or two; my top picks include the paprika wedges which are served with a lemon and thyme crème fraîche and the warm chorizo with its oily, garlic bite.

When it comes to dessert, I've never been overly impressed with the dishes I've ordered whereby it seems that presentation exceeds substance; a cleverly woven arrangement of spun sugar attractively crowning each dish and yet proving teeth-breakingly inedible; at times, much like the mediocre pud which sits beneath it. That said, I have yet to sample the Bailey’s Crème Brûlée which I have on good authority, is really rather delicious! Personally though, I’ve always opted to save the money earmarked for dessert for another round of cocktails, (yes, yes…I have a problem!) Thus, without further ado, let me share with you the content of this coveted cocktail menu (which, you may wish to be note, is differently arranged at the Cabot Circus branch of Coal) – firstly, it’s important to be aware that the BOGOF offer denotes that both cocktails have to be the same and yet, the presence of the passion fruit daiquiri significantly minimises any aversion to this caveat. I mean, described as ‘moreish’ and ‘dangerously drinkable’ by my cocktail-drinking companions, whilst combining white rum with passion fruit purée, sugar, lime and a touch of coconut liqueur (which is the unofficial 'extra' ingredient that really seals the deal in terms of its deliciousness), it really is an addictive tipple. Plus, taking you to a sunshiney spot within the realms of your imagination, (come on, we all know that summer's been cancelled this year), this is a beach-bar beverage and then some...yet at £3.75 a pop, it’s significantly cheaper than a flight to the Costa del Sol! Just in case this isn't your bag (seriously?!) I should probably mention that there are a total of six cocktails to choose from this specific line-up and also, a number which amount to only £4.75 within the ‘Happy Hour’ remit including the likes of the classic Cosmopolitan and a rather zesty Apple Martini – yum!

Daiquiri Action

In conclusion, Severn Shed is an ample choice for both edibles and/or a well-timed drink or two. I’d suggest that it indubitably outshines its Cabot Circus based equivalent; arguably serving a more varied clientèle and even boasting a DJ that helps facilitate a party atmosphere post 9:00pm. For, although Coal is predominantly a restaurant, Severn Shed is attended as a bar in its own right and certainly for me, its fare is not its USP - although it is altogether satisfactory, I’ll re-visit time and time again in response to the lurid pull of that decidedly divine passion fruit daiquiri…

And now for that all-important second opinion...

In three words, friend 'PAWS' summed up the appeal of Severn Shed as 'alfresco cocktail quaffing' and gave the venue a rating of 8/10 – would we be quite so keen without its 'signature' tipple? The jury's out...

References:

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

ZERODEGREES Microbrewery - Colston Street, Bristol

I couldn’t believe that it had been three whole Months since the last meet-up of the collective inhabitants from my former workplace; three months in which I was supposed to be locating an appropriate outlet for our next foodie foray. You may recall my anxiety at having to cater for a large party of varying tastes and juxtaposed preferences and as such, I again leant towards ‘the safe bet’; booking a table at ZERODEGREES Microbrewery; a venue which not only offers a contemporary line-up of hand-crafted beers but also an extensive menu of pizzas, pastas and grills that I’d envisaged were bound to hit the spot...

Date and Time: Wednesday 13^th June 2012, 19:30

Name of Establishment: ZERODEGREES Microbrewery*

Location: 53 Colston Street, Bristol

Reason for visit: Co-worker chow-down

As the flagship branch of a four-part franchise, Bristol's version of ZEROZEGREES is described as a pairing of 'substance and style', effectively shaping the functionality of its large and lofty space to create an edgy, almost futuristic feel. Here, pipelines gleam overhead and sizeable steel vats facilitate an intriguing focal point whilst encompassing the USP of the venue itself. Channelling a sense of factory finesse, this is an establishment that embodies its surroundings and in fact, I'd noted how the mechanics of the brewery had been incorporated within the historic presence of Bristol’s Christmas Steps whilst climbing towards the neon blue wording above the main entrance from the back-streets below. It also lends to the area, a example of sustainability; its wooden-cladding and mish-mash of building materials providing a notable contrast to the drab concrete that is commonplace within its proximity. Plus, perhaps reflecting its somewhat detached existence, as well as the cool ambiance of its interior, service is really rather aloof. Yes, although our table awaited us, we were not rushed to take our seats, (despite how busy the restaurant had become) – in fact, we ended up asking when it was appropriate to do so, thinking that we’d perhaps been forgotten altogether. This seemed to set a precedent for the remainder of the evening whereby the blurred line between laid-back and just plain slack meant having to campaign for attention and thus, enduring an excruciating wait between courses. Furthermore, we found that high ceilings and a well-attended space equalled a distinct imbalance in terms of the acoustics – in short, there were moments when we couldn't hear ourselves think!

When it came to the menu, the premise of modern European favourites transcended to four main sections; pizza, pasta, mussels and grills. I opted for the Sweet and Spicy Italian Sausage pizza (£9.25) which I'm afraid to say appeared rather lacking upon first look; the roasted mixed peppers proving the prominent feature and the meat content, distinctively sparse. Having been cooked in a traditional stone-hearth oven, I was expecting a little more from the base which was decidedly average to say the least – comprising the likes of an unsuitably soggy centre and edges that bordered on charred! Others were rather more impressed with the dishes they had chosen, the mussels in particular (at £14.50 a kilo), were reportedly fresh, generously portioned and intricately flavoured; in this case with lemongrass, ginger, coconut milk, coriander and green curry paste – yum! Now, when it comes to dessert, I'm a person who likes to consider one's options prior to the onset of the visit at hand – subsequently, I was relatively miffed at the distinct lack of an online dessert menu; especially as, for me, this can function as the ‘make-or-break’ course – not to mention determine whether I indulge in a starter. As a result, I held out for what constituted a rather mediocre chocolate fudge cake which, although was rather prettily plated - sporting a latticed, spun-sugar style crown - was disappointingly dry; the microwaved middle layer of frosting not quite saving its unpleasantly heavy composition. Other dishes were perhaps rather better received, an eton mess type ensemble proving the star of the show with its well-executed balance of sweet versus tart.

As a microbrewery, it seemed almost customary to accompany our dinnertime decadences with one of the venue’s indigenous beers and with so many to choose from, (from black lager to wheat ale and fruit beers), it is easy to complement each and every dish with a suitable brew. And, what better to cut through a (supposedly) meaty pizza than the crisp zest of the house Pilsner with its fruity lime notes and 100% Czech Saaz content. Not only that, ZERODEGREES' Pilsner is without doubt a personal favourite be it reminiscent of the great British Summertime and the festivals that grace our fair city when the sun opts to make an entrance. Yes, although I’ll never completely abandon my 'Pinot' habit, there’s potential to make a beer-drinker of me yet!

In conclusion, a reasonably-priced and enjoyable evening within an addictively buzzy atmosphere – although the cuisine didn’t wow me, I would certainly return for drinks; perhaps even frequent the outside space, weather permitting! As a brewery, it’s unsurprising that the quality of the beverages take centre stage and yet, the fresh, innovative content of the menu seemed to promise rather more than it fared in the flesh - if we return to the initial description of ‘substance and style’, I'd suggest that just as the latter has been achieved and then some, there are leaps and bounds required for the substance element to function on a comparable level...something, I'm sure, that isn't beyond the capabilities of the brains behind what is an otherwise appealing venue.

And now for the second opinion…

One of my dining companions gave ZERODEGREES a rating of 7/10 and in three words, suggested that it, ‘could’ve been better!’

References:

http://www.zerodegrees.co.uk/location-bristol.html

An account of Canapés, Cupcakes and Cocktails' time in Sorrento...

Touching down in Bristol following a seven-day stint in the Neapolitan Riviera with a distinctively pinkish tint to my skin tone and a new-found ‘pizza paunch’ I had originally planned to provide a brief snapshot of this particular foodie foray via a series of photographs; facilitating my reformed appreciation of Italian fare. I mean, albeit one of the most instantly recognisable genres of cuisine on the planet, there are certain factors - such as the presence of home-grown ingredients and the authenticity of dining beneath the Mediterranean sunshine - that really enhance the dishes that arguably don't quite cut it back in good old Blighty. Consequently, the images earmarked for inclusion are as follows and yet, shunning the confines of a caption or two in favour of a full report of my findings seemed rather more fitting...not to mention, an opportunity for me to prolong the memories of what was altogether, a fantastic week...

Date and Time: Monday 28^th May - Monday 4^th June 2012

Destination: Sorrento

Location: Neapolitan Riviera/Amalfi Coast, Italy

Reason for Visit: In the words of the mighty Cliff - “We're all going on a...Summer Holiday” - well, I am!

Sorrento’s focal point, Piazza Tasso, is positively humming with hustle and bustle; snacking is commonplace and a vibrant café culture exists of the heart of its battle between chaotic consumption and chill. Thus, in light of its wonderfully cosmopolitan air, I'll begin with my means to the internationally acceptable sport of people-watching which, for me, seemed more appropriate from behind the rim of a coffee cup. Though many venues have wavered to meet the requirements of the ever-present tourist trade, cappuccinos and lattes are strictly for breakfast time and instead, espresso-based beverages take centre stage - my favourite, the Espressino, which layers an unmistakably Italian blend with steamed milk and cocoa, both kept me on my toes and satisfied my self-confessed coffee snobbery at each and every turn! Furthermore, the apparent demand for a rich-roasted hit meant that coffee features in a number of entities; spanning a variety of desserts (Tiramisu anyone?!) and confectioneries whereby espresso-flavoured candies supposedly keep one’s caffeine levels topped up ‘till lunch! It is also customary to receive a small selection of bite-sized treats with one’s coffee which was unsurprisingly well received on my part; come on, everyone loves complimentary edibles…non?!

Espressino

Complimentary Nibbles

Another ingredient which is utilised across a range of consumables is fresh lemon which is locally produced and used as the basis for a number of products - on the most part, the business of Limoncello; a strong liquor and perfect palate cleanser/digestif given its bitter-sweet bite. Best served ice-cold, or slurped through biscotti, its strength is not to be sniffed at and, whilst we're on the subject, my companion and I found ourselves toasting to the concept of European measures upon several occasions, be it something that accentuated our evenings’ entertainment somewhat. Solaro, the local wine of Sorrento was also rather palatable, though the Aglianico del Taburno proved a smoother red by comparison and Bagnoli (di Sopra), a 'Rosato' from the Veneto region, was, without doubt, my favourite tipple to compliment dinner. Plus, by the end of the trip, I’d also become rather accustomed to Italian lager with a crisp Peroni or Nastro Azzurro proving my first port of call following a sweaty descent into Sorrento town from the mountainous location of the hotel.

The Grand Hotel Due Golfi* really did pull out all the stops when it came to the standard of their cuisine; exceeding my expectations of the usual tried and tested meals for the masses and shunning a buffet style affair for 'a la carte’ table service. Hence, worrying about the restrictions of my self-imposed half-board status became somewhat redundant with the first meal that I sat down to and subsequently,  throughout the course of the week, delighted in the fact that almost all bases were covered; namely, dishes that I wouldn't have necessarily chosen elsewhere and yet, thoroughly enjoyed. I developed a taste for Escalope for instance and keenly sampled oodles of seafood as well as a selection of regionally influenced pasta dishes (macaroni, ravioli and lasagne to name but a few) - these mapped Italian cuisine for me and, despite a couple of oddities here and there (breaded cod on a bed of ready-salted crisps anyone?!) I found myself eagerly anticipating the surprise factor of each and every dinnertime adventure! That said, there was something missing from the three-courses plated each evening; something fundamental to the Country's culinary culture and, as a result, my primary reason for opting to eat-out upon several occasions....yep, you guessed it PIZZA!!!

Cannelloni - Sorrento Style!

First a little history (courtesy of the lovely Thomson's tour guide who accompanied us on the journey from the airport) - pizza actually originated from Napoli and, in June 1889, to honor the Queen consort of Italy (Margherita of Savoy), the Neapolitan chef Raffaele Esposito created the ‘Pizza Margherita’; a pizza garnished with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves, to represent the colours of the Italian flag. Yes, it’s fair to say that, history aside, I ate some of the best pizza I had ever tasted during what I'd coined as my eating expedition – my absolute favourite from within a rustic trattoria called ‘Mimi’ in the nearby village of Sant'Agata Sui, (which incidentally is also home to Don Alfonso 1890; a Michelin-starred restaurant with a fantastic reputation for unpretentious yet faultless fare). Here, pizzas are baked in a traditional wood-fired oven, meaning that their bases are of the perfect consistency; thin, crisply edged and not too doughy which, in addition to the fresh, flavoursome ingredients used to top them, equaled mouthfuls of absolute joy – no wonder it was so well-attended with a rowdy queue of locals that snaked all the way from the take-away counter to the front door of the establishment! My companion and I also sampled the Italian-take on fresh bruschetta - pizza’s crunchier cousin – which, slathered with local olive oil and topped with sun-ripened tomatoes, fared as a perfect lunchtime snackette.

Bruschetta's Betta'!

Parma Ham, Fresh Rocket and Parmesan

Now, when it comes to eateries abroad, I’m not one to brandish the word ‘favourite’ around, tending to avoid repeat-visits to a single establishment in favour of a more thorough drinking/dining experience overall. Instead, I’ll document a few that, for me, constituted my top-picks of the region starting with a fantastic outlet for another Italian tradition…Gelato! Yes, this is another of Italy’s USPs and, in fact, I can't believe that I have documented my trip thus far without mentioning it! And, with over 80 flavours from peanut to pineapple and KitKat to coconut, Bougainvillea* was an obvious choice.

Café Latino* is a peaceful haven tucked behind a busy high street – think, leafy greens contrasted with vibrant red blooms as well as a series of orange trees that criss-cross overhead, effectively filtering the dappled sunshine. A chilled-out soundtrack and central water feature complete a noticeable aura of calm and an extensive cocktail list, reasonably-priced cuisine and even a gluten-free menu secures its suitability for any occasion.

Another cobbled side-street led me to meet the acquaintance of William Guglielmo, the renowned chef and proud owner of the Old Taverna Sorrentina* and its adjoined cookery school. William enthusiastically took me through photographs of his farm; explaining the traditions associated with its olive and lemon production and the origins of his family’s business, (which, for the record, dates all the way back to 1860.) Although disappointingly I didn’t have time to participate in the advertised four-course cookery session, I developed quite a soft spot for this particular establishment; not only for the sensational gelato and home-made limoncello granita (which is served with a generous dousing of vodka…hic) but also due to the passion behind its substance and the charismatic persona at the forefront if its appeal.

Elsewhere, Bar Orlando in Sant'Agata Sui, curiously branded with the legend of the smoking cat, was a hidden gem with excellent service and unbeatable value for money and, at the other end of the spectrum, Bar Embassy within the designer streets of Capri, although pricey, was an ample platform for a spot of people watching – the eateries of Capri, boasting their famous clientèle in a collage of crinkled photographs!

Parrot-dise for 16 Euro for two dishes of Gelato in Capri

The legend of the Smoking Cat - Bar Orlando

Consequently, rarely does a city combine phenomenal beauty with the buzz of a busy city and neither does a week within it come so reasonably priced. At 6-7 Euro for a cocktail, 2-3 Euro for coffee and around the 8 Euro mark for a main course, I was rather pleasantly surprised at how lightly I was hit in the pocket, (finding myself in the rare position of having enough moolah left over to hit the likes of Duty Free prior to my return flight!) Obviously, to venture to the likes of Capri (the playground of the rich and famous) or to the trendy seaside of Positano, will set you back considerably more and yet, to balance these areas for a well-rounded trip really does seem to serve the ideal holiday destination, (yes yes I'm Judith Chalmers minus the mahogany tan!) Finally, I may have returned with a little excess baggage (mainly around my midrift you'll understand) but everything put in front of me, no really...everything, was fresh, wholesome and delivered with gusto, the latter perhaps the reason why even the aforementioned oddities were, at least on my part, embraced as part of a culture to be proud of; and for blimmin' good reason!  

References:

*http://www.grandhotelduegolfi.com/

* http://www.bougainvillea.it/

* http://www.cafelatinosorrento.it/

* http://www.oldtavernasorrentina.it/

Renato's – King Street, Bristol

Friday night....the end of a busy working-week and the cause of a celebratory tipple or two with like-minded chums. Yet, on this occasion, after our chosen happy hour had all but dried up, the girls and I found ourselves within the realms of that commonplace conundrum; feeling tipsy, desperately hungry and with little money left in our pockets whereby one usually questions whether to continue the carnage or simply call it a night. However, with Renato's situated upon the charismatic cobbles of King Street - just a stones-throw away from where we sat - it was an easy decision to follow-up the festivities thus far with a couple of pizzas from their affordable range...

Date and Time: Friday 23rd March 2012, 21:00

Name of Establishment: Renato's

Location: 19 King Street, Bristol*

Reason for Visit: Three famished females embarking upon 'après-drinking dinner-time'!

Steeped in history and given its proximity to Bristol Old Vic theatre, Renato's is a treasure trove of theatrical memorabilia with stage-show related posters that capitalise the wall-space and a hall of fame which sports the autographed head-shots of its rather more famous clientèle, (including the likes of Barbara Windsor, Alan Rickman and Sir Ian McKellen). Furthermore, the combination of a friendly, family-oriented ambiance and the nooks and crannies of a wonderfully old-school watering hole makes for a notably atmospheric spot - its enigmatic quirkiness further enhanced by rich-coloured décor as well as mahogany table-tops, sporadic candle-light and a little chintz here and there! Lastly, due to the venue's indubitable popularity, seat-less souls comfortably perch amongst larger parties; an occurrence which is surely testament to the relaxed disposition of the space overall...

Onto main event whereby pizzas are ordered at the bar, created from scratch, and collected from the counter within the right-hand pocket of the establishment. The problem here is the excruciating nature of the waiting game whereby, after honouring the initially allocated time-frame (of no less than twenty-five minutes on the evening of our visit), one finds themselves sent back to their seat, ticket in hand, for another stint of torturous tummy-rumbling. Although this is unsurprisingly frustrating, it does seem to evidence the use of an authentic pizza oven and the obvious care taken in regards to the preparation of each and every dish – not to mention constituting a considerable degree of freshly-baked appeal! We could have of course, ventured towards the rather more formal restaurant area (or, the 'Taverna dell' Artista' to be precise) which may have proven a little less sluggish given the presence of table service and yet, I had become somewhat accustomed to the notion of tucking ourselves into a cosy corner amidst the excitable buzz of the Friday-night crowd...The girls and I opted for two pizzas between us, (from the sixteen available), plus a portion of garlic bread (£2.50) which fared very well given its light, doughy consistency and appropriately balanced pungency. Of the pizzas, the Inferno (£7.95) was a winner for me with its combination of rich tomato sauce and melting mozzarella which had been liberally spread onto a crisp (and really rather sizeable) base. To finish, thinly sliced and subtly seasoned salami and a touch of palate-warming chilli which, unfortunately (for me), did not quite have the kick that warranted the connotations of the fiery rubric upon the menu. Our other selection was the Artistica (£8.25) which basically comprised the classic ham and pineapple pairing – and this, a well-executed version that had been generously topped with good quality ingredients; thereby facilitating the notion that good things really do come to those who wait!

Dessert presented the option of a scoop or two of ‘Gelati' which the girls and I chose not to indulge in given that we had enough vino within our possession to drown a hippopotamus! Yes, although this is not an establishment sporting a fancy wine list, a line-up of familiar favourites seems to reflect its unpretentious edge; plus at just over three-pounds for a decidedly drinkable Chardonnay, I certainly wasn’t complaining!

In short, it may well be difficult to bag oneself a seat and it's true that waiting for your pizza to be ready for collection can be compared to waiting for rainfall in a desert, (incidentally, the 'ladies' also leave little to be desired given their unthinkably poky handling which, as a result, manufactures a cross-legged queuing system up to four people deep) but, the cheerful charm of Renato's is simply undeniable and despite these pitfalls, the quality of the fare, enormous portion sizes and value for money overrules anything that may be considered a negative. Lastly, given its 'late-license' which stretches to the opening hours of the kitchen, Renato's is an attractive alternative to the kebab van on the centre and, to be fair, if it's good enough for the multitude of celebrities that have frequented this venue over the years, then it's most certainly good enough for me!

And now for the second opinion…

The Best Foodie Friend (BFF) gave Renato’s a rating of 8/10 and in three words, described this venue as a 'cosy pizza cave'!

References:

*Renato's can be found on 19 King Street, Bristol BS1 4EF - Telephone: 0117 929 8291

Bella Italia – Baldwin Street, Bristol

Every once in a while, I am invited to join my mum and her gaggle of girl friends for an evening of good food and conversation. On this particular occasion, that they had chosen Baldwin Street's version of Bella Italia as the base for their natter n' nosh-up; an establishment at the source of many happy memories given that, over the years, it has facilitated a number of special family get-togethers, (which I’m sure it will become necessary for me to allude to in due course). As such, I was more than happy to join them for an evening of tasty Italian fare and maybe even on my part, a nostalgic glimpse of good times past ...

Date and Time: Tuesday 24^th January 2012, 20:00

Name of Establishment: Bella Italia*

Location: 8-10 Baldwin Street, Bristol

Reason for Visit: 'Tarts' Night Out, (their words, not mine...!)

Although this popular Italian chain occupies a number of spaces in and around our fair City (with outlets in both Cabot Circus and 'The Venue' at Cribbs Causeway), its Baldwin Street branch seems to encompass a little more in the way of authenticity - perhaps due to its street-side charm or its intimately arranged and invitingly candlelit surroundings which, on a smaller scale to its rather more commercially situated counterparts, is comparably 'busy' in terms of its décor and yet a little less 'in your face', (if that makes sense?!) Thus, the attributes of a traditional 'trattoria' (which 'Bella' often tries too hard to adhere to) are ever-present and yet achieved, on the large part, with a degree of subtle sophistication. That is, minus the sizeable map of Italy detailed, in all its patriotic glory, on one of the richly-coloured walls...I'm sure the aim was to eradicate any ambiguity that may have existed beforehand in regards to the identity of the space, (if, for instance, you have just been hatched!) but it really isn't necessary and, if we're going to be really picky, it even proves a little patronising! That said, with an upbeat soundtrack overhead and a good helping of friendly, efficient service, our party of five soon settled in to enjoy the evening at hand...

We were lucky enough to have acquired a print-out, courtesy of 'Voucher Codes'*, that entitled us to main courses on a buy-one-get-one-free basis; an offer which our server encouraged us to take full advantage of; persuading us to order a sixth dish to share between us, (or to take home, depending on how full-up we all fared). Whilst we were waiting for our main courses to make an entrance, (as starters had been shunned in favour of making room the extra pizza we had opted for), I sipped at a crisp-noted Pinot Grigio. Offered at the mid-point of the typical chain restaurant drink pricing structure, my 'vini bianchi' was decidedly average – in fact, with Peroni on tap alongside all the usual suspects, there is nothing particularly notable about the line-up of predominantly Italian themed beverages on offer here and yet, nothing especially offensive either!

Moving onto the cuisine and the range of pizza 'n pasta favourites that graced our table – for me, the Carne Mista (£9.25); a pizza comprising a feast of Italian meats – spicy pepperoni, salami, chunky ham and smoked pancetta. This was both rich and satisfying and yet, us pizza devotees did agree that the bases, although advertised as 'thin and crisp', were ever so slightly soggy – a shame as it was otherwise noted that the toppings were of a good quality, fresh-tasting and amply portioned. One member of the group opted for the Melanzane alla Parmigiana (£8.95); a flavoursome arrangement of aubergine which had been layered with béchamel, slow-roasted tomato, basil and thyme sauce as well as cooling mozzarella. Despite the initial niggle that its topping appeared a little burnt, this wholesome, oven-baked fare was described as 'incredibility tasty' by its recipient. Furthermore, pairing the substantial content of this dish with a generously plated baby gem salad brought about a delicious contrast; the splash of lemon oil that featured here proving somewhat palate-cleansing given its citrus zing. Evident by the menu itself, Bella Italia clearly strives to offer a bona fide dining experience whereby its influences are determined in regards to specific Italian regions and its main attractions are paired with a suitable vino from the aforementioned line-up. Despite the broad range of dishes on offer, the menu has obviously been thoughtfully arranged and if, unlike me, you tantalise your taste buds with something a little more off the beaten track, (as opposed to jumping straight to the pizza options, salivating at the mere thought of the imminent carb-fest), you wont be disappointed - the Conchiglioni di Mare (£9..85), for example certainly appealed; giant egg pasta shells filled with cod, prawns, mascarpone and lemon zest in a creamy saffron sauce with baby spinach – yum!

Melanzane alla Parmigiana

Onto dessert and although I've been duly informed that 'Bella' serve up a blimmin' good Tiramisu, I soothed my notorious sweet tooth with the Cookie Dough Lava Cake (£5.25); an extremely gluttonous pud constituting...yep you guessed it...warm cookie dough which, packed with melting chocolate chips and topped with a good-quality vanilla 'gelati' and a drizzle of caramel sauce was rather sickly but for me, a winning combination that would definitely warrant a return visit.

A whole lotta yum...!

In conclusion, a lovely evening all round – I guess that the sentimental connections I have to this establishment, whereby it would often function as the starting point for the theatre outings I took as a child with very special members of my family, will always hold it dear to me. Yet, there is definitely something a little less mainstream about this branch of Bella Italia; be it the old-school building which it has occupied for so many years (previously Bella Pasta if you can remember back that far), its vantage point for people-watching given its atmospheric road-side location or perhaps its cosily arranged interior. Whatever the case may be, there is no doubt that there is something setting it above its counterparts and with the reliability factor in its favour given its reputation for classic Italian cuisine, not to mention the numerous money-saving opportunities to take advantage of, this venue seems to tick all the boxes when it comes to an enjoyable, yet reasonable night out.

And now for the second opinion...

My lovely mum gave Bella Italia a rating of 8/10 and in three words summed up her experience as; 'always reliable fare'.

References:

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

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