Welcome, fellow food lovers, to a delightful exploration of London’s vibrant restaurant scene and the captivating world of food. Join us as we navigate through a mix of culinary adventures, discover hidden gems, and uncover the latest trends in the food industry.
A Press Release Gone Wrong: Planet Hollywood’s Marco Pierre White Mishap
Have you ever encountered a press release so bad it makes you question the sanity of the sender? I have, and this one takes the cake (or should I say, the organic rib-eye steak?).
This press release, written in an attempt to promote a collaboration between Planet Hollywood and celebrity chef Marco Pierre White, is a masterpiece of unintentional comedy. The sheer audacity of claiming that a tree was felled just to share this information makes me chuckle with a touch of sadness.
The press release reads like a desperate attempt to generate buzz around a partnership that feels forced and lacks genuine excitement. Imagine a restaurant known for its Hollywood-themed atmosphere trying to elevate itself by incorporating a celebrity chef’s signature dishes.
The introduction of Marco Pierre White’s two signature dishes, a hefty organic rib-eye steak and a Mediterranean chicken skewer, fails to ignite any culinary passion. The description reads like a grocery list, lacking any evocative language to entice readers. Instead of creating an air of anticipation, the press release leaves us with a sense of disappointment.
The mention of a “double yolker” next to the steak makes me question the writer’s grasp of culinary terminology. The entire press release feels like a haphazard attempt to create a “buzzworthy” event that ultimately falls flat.
I’m left wondering, is this a genuine attempt to elevate Planet Hollywood’s culinary offerings or simply a publicity stunt gone wrong?
A New Lease on Life: Le Deuxième Brings Fresh Flavors to Covent Garden
Let’s move on to a restaurant that truly deserves a standing ovation. After years of delighting theatregoers and opera enthusiasts, Magno’s Brasserie in Covent Garden has undergone a stylish transformation, emerging as Le Deuxième.
Gone are the days of tired décor and uninspired menus. Le Deuxième embraces a more contemporary and comfortable atmosphere while maintaining the restaurant’s undeniable charm.
The most enticing aspect of this revamped establishment is the fantastic value set menu. Two courses with coffee will set you back just £9.95, while three courses cost a mere £13.95.
This incredibly reasonable pricing makes Le Deuxième the ideal spot for a quick lunch or an early evening dinner. It’s a welcome change from the often inflated prices in this vibrant area.
A venture into the à la carte menu reveals a symphony of flavors. Dishes like the tempura of fresh water shrimp with Thai dressing, the tian of crab, tomatoes and avocado, and the grilled Arctic char with a light curry sauce are sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Le Deuxième is a testament to the power of reinvention, proving that a classic can be updated without losing its essence.
West Street’s New Arrival: WESTSTREET Offers a Taste of Italy with a British Twist
A recent trial meal at WESTSTREET, a new addition to London’s West Street, left me with a mixed bag of emotions.
The restaurant, still under construction, felt like a chaotic symphony of unfinished building work and culinary delight. It’s a strange juxtaposition that only adds to the restaurant’s unique charm.
Despite the ongoing construction, the professionalism of both the front of house and the kitchen shines through. Under the watchful eye of chef Rowley Leigh, WESTSTREET delivers impeccable dishes like perfectly grilled partridge with pine kernels and spinach and a decadent pannacotta with passionfruit.
The restaurant embraces a distinct approach to cuisine, offering a fusion of English and Italian flavors. This unique blend is sure to attract the discerning palates of West Street’s sophisticated clientele.
WESTSTREET is poised to become a hot spot, drawing in chauffeurs, paparazzi, and food enthusiasts alike. This new arrival is sure to elevate West Street’s reputation as a haven for exquisite dining experiences.
A Taste of Greece in Hoxton: The Real Greek Expands its Horizons
The Real Greek, a beloved institution known for its authentic Greek cuisine, has made its way to Hoxton, bringing a touch of the Mediterranean to the heart of London.
The restaurant’s signature dishes, crafted by the talented Theodore Kyriakou, remain as exciting and authentic as ever.
A highlight of the restaurant is the affordable two-course set lunch menu, priced at just £14.50. This budget-friendly option makes enjoying Greek cuisine a reality for all.
The Real Greek’s expansion into 13/14 Hoxton Market is a welcome development, offering a dedicated space for the restaurant’s popular mezedes.
This expansion showcases the restaurant’s commitment to serving the best of Greek cuisine, including a growing selection of high-quality Greek wines.
The Real Greek’s presence in Hoxton marks a significant milestone for the restaurant, further solidifying its reputation as a leading purveyor of authentic Greek food.
Food for Thought: September’s Guide to Culinary Delights
September signals the arrival of a culinary feast, not just in the form of game birds but also in the form of restaurant guides.
The Zagat 2002 Guide, covering London and its surrounding areas, takes the lead, closely followed by Charles Campion’s Rough Guide to London. These guides are a must-have for any food aficionado seeking to explore the city’s culinary landscape.
The annual Richard and Peter Harden restaurant guide provides a comprehensive overview of London’s dining scene. Their Party Guide, published sporadically, offers an invaluable resource for event planners and social butterflies.
The arrival of these guides is a reminder that the culinary world is constantly evolving, offering new experiences and insights for every taste.
From Foot-and-Mouth Crisis to Festive Delights: A Snapshot of the Food Industry
Attending last week’s Speciality Food Fair felt like a poignant reflection of the resilience of the food industry.
Despite the recent challenges posed by the foot-and-mouth crisis, farmers and producers exhibited a spirit of determination, showcasing their commitment to quality.
The fair offered a glimpse into the innovative and diverse range of products available, from Rutland farmer Jan McCourt’s rare-breed meats to Yattendon Estates’ high-quality flour.
The presence of smoked salmon from less polluted waters around Ireland and a range of smoked produce from Glangwili Home Farm in Wales highlights the dedication of producers to ethical and sustainable practices.
Looking ahead to the festive season, The Carved Angel’s Christmas puddings are already in production, promising a delightful holiday treat.
The Speciality Food Fair showcased the strength and adaptability of the food industry, reminding us of the enduring power of food to bring people together.
