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● Laura Thornberry ● Lifestyle Blogger ● London Based ●

 AD | If your looking for some new restaurant recommendations in London, look no further!

With so many restaurants in the capital, it's hard to know which to choose. London is one of the most diverse and multicultural cities in the UK, and the hundreds of restaurants in the city reflect this. From your traditional English style meals, to international cuisine such as Indian, Chinese, Italian, Japanese and much much more, London literally has it all! Whether you visit North London, East, South or West, you'll be spoilt for choice with the extensive list of cheap eats, fine dining or casual restaurant settings.

If you're looking for a new restaurant to try, or a new style of cuisine, why not check out the Square Meal website. It features a whole range of UK restaurants, bars and restaurants - the perfect place to browse for inspiration! Whether you’re looking for a restaurant based on cuisine, price, atmosphere or how pretty its private dining room is, you’ll be able to find the best options here. 

uk restaurants

Dishoom
Dishoom offers an all day Indian dining menu which is perfect for those craving some delicious naan, daal or curries, whatever time of the day. Dishooms main concept is about transporting you to a different era as it is about introducing top-tasting Bombay street food to hungry London diners. The queues for this place are always long, so if you're after some delicious Indian food, this would be a great option!

Hakkasan
Hakkasan is a restaurant chain that offers modern Chinese cuisine, fine dining, world-class mixology, and dramatic design in 12 locations worldwide. London’s most famous Chinese restaurant remains a must-visit for all fans of Cantonese food. Boasting an expansive menu featuring everything from expertly prepared dim sum to Chinese classics revisited with luxury ingredients, Hakkasan is the perfect dining location for lovers of delicious Chinese dishes. 

uk retaurants

AYA
AYA is the perfect spot for lovers of Middle Eastern flavours. For me, Lebanese food is one of the freshest, most flavoursome and most delicious cuisines on the planet and AYA definitely ticks all of those. The menu offers authentic flavours of Lebanese cuisine, combining traditional dishes with a modern twist. With a wide choice of meats, vegetables, fresh salads, fish and seafood, there is definitely something for everyone.

Circolo Popolare
Circolo Popolare is a popular restaurant in Fitzrovia that offers Italian, pizza and Mediterranean cuisine. So if Italian food is your thing, Circolo Popolare would be a great choice for your next meal out. Step inside this Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and enjoy a selection of small plates of delicious starters, metre long pizzas, and even some delicious sweet treats to finish off your meal.

These are just a small selection of amazing international restaurants that are a must-visit whilst in London. For more recommendations, check out the Square Meal site where you can view up-to-date reviews of over 7,500 London and UK restaurants and bars, where you'll find menus, independent reviews and diner ratings.

Have you used the Square Meal website? What are your favourite restaurants in London?

18:48 No comments
GUEST POST | Cambridge is a food lover's delight, featuring everything from cosy cafés to elegant restaurants. But with so many choices out there it can be overwhelming when working within a tight budget - not to worry though; we've got your back - in this article we have collected 6 budget-friendly restaurants and cafés serving delectable fare without breaking the bank - perfect whether you want a hearty breakfast, quick lunch or satisfying dinner, we have something on this list to meet every craving.

When you are in these eating spots, you can eat delicious food for a decent price. Seriously, you don’t have to be rich or win the Irish Lottery at Lottoland to enjoy some of Cambridge’s best food; each delicious meal would cost you PS15 or less. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to savour the flavour of Cambridge without worrying about your wallet.

outdoor cafe

What should you consider when looking for affordable dining options?
It's important to keep in mind a few factors when choosing budget-friendly cafés and restaurants. Prioritize establishments that offer excellent value for money. The quality of the food is more influential than its price. Second, decide restaurants that have a wide variety of food, especially if you are dining in a large group. It is significant to cater to everyone's tastes. Seek out restaurants with an inviting ambiance and splendid service. An enjoyable atmosphere will enhance your dining experience. Attentive service will make you feel welcomed and valued. Find a variety of budget-friendly cafés and restaurants in Cambridge that embody these qualities.

Cambridge's best affordable restaurants and cafés

Café Blue
Café Blue is a cosy café located in Kendall Square, offering a variety of breakfast and lunch choices. The café is warm and inviting, with its wooden tables, chairs, and large windows that allow in natural light. The menu includes a wide range of sandwiches, soups, and salads, as well as coffee and baked goods. Prices are affordable, with the majority of items priced between PS5 and PS12. Café Blue is a great place to meet up with friends for a coffee or a quick meal.

Veggie Galaxy
Veggie Galaxy, a vegetarian restaurant located in Central Square, serves comfort food with a unique twist. Menu items include classic diner fare like milkshakes and fries with a vegan and vegetarian twist. Prices are affordable, with many dishes priced between PS5 and PS15. Retro booths, a jukebox, and retro decor give the diner a unique and fun dining experience. Veggie Galaxy should be on the list of places to visit for both vegetarians and those who are not.

outdoor café

Darwin's Ltd
Darwin's Ltd, a deli-café located in Harvard Square, offers a wide variety of sandwiches and salads. Menu items include classic deli fare and original creations like “Thanksgiving Sandwich” and “Sweet Potato and Black Bean Quesadilla.” Prices are affordable, with many items priced between PS6 and PS12. With wooden tables, chairs, and a fireplace, the café offers a relaxed and cosy atmosphere. Darwin's Ltd. is the ideal place to catch up with your friends or grab a quick meal.

Punjabi Dhaba
Punjabi Dhaba, an Indian restaurant in Inman Square, serves authentic Punjabi food. Menu items include a wide range of vegetarian and vegan dishes like butter chicken, chana masala, and naan. Prices are affordable, with the majority of dishes priced between PS7 and PS15. The restaurant is casual and cosy, with colourful walls. Indian music plays in the background. Punjabi Dhaba offers authentic Indian food.

The Dumpling House
The Dumpling House, a Chinese restaurant in Central Square, specializes in dumplings. The menu includes a wide variety of dumplings like pork and chive and vegetable dumplings as well as Chinese dishes such as scallion soups and pancakes. Prices are affordable, with the majority of dishes costing between PS5 and PS15. The restaurant is trendy and modern, with bright lights and colourful murals. The Dumpling House will satisfy your craving for dumplings on a budget.

Anna's Taquería
Anna's Taquería, a Mexican restaurant in Cambridge port, serves authentic Mexican food. Menu items include burritos and tacos, as well as quesadillas and chips, and salsa. Prices are affordable, with the majority of dishes costing between PS5 and PS12. The atmosphere is relaxed and casual, with colourful walls. Mexican music plays in the background. Anna's Taquería offers a delicious and quick Mexican meal.

vegan café

Cambridge offers vegan and vegetarian food
Cambridge is a city that welcomes vegetarians and vegans. Many restaurants and cafés offer vegetarian and vegan food. Here are the best places in Cambridge to enjoy vegetarian and vegan food.

Life Alive
Life Alive, a vegan and vegetarian café in Central Square, serves healthy and delicious foods. The menu includes a wide range of salads, bowls, and smoothies. Vegan desserts are also available. Prices are affordable, with the majority of dishes priced between PS8 and PS15. The café is cosy and inviting, with colourful wall murals and natural decor. Anyone looking for delicious and healthy vegetarian and vegan foods should visit Life Alive.

Veggie Crust
Veggie Crust, a vegetarian- and vegan-friendly pizza restaurant in North Cambridge, offers a wide variety of pizzas and salads. Prices are affordable, with the majority of pizzas priced between PS10 and PS15. The restaurant is casual and relaxed, with colourful decor and wooden chairs and tables. Veggie Crust is a great way to enjoy vegetarian and vegan pizzas without spending a fortune.

Clover Food Lab
Clover Food Lab, a vegan and vegetarian café in Cambridge, offers a wide variety of salads, sandwiches, and side dishes. Menu items include classics and original creations like “Impossible Meatballs” and “BBQ Seitan.” Prices are affordable, with the majority of dishes priced between PS5 and PS10. Bright lights and colourful decor create a trendy and modern ambiance in the café. Clover Food Lab offers vegetarian and vegan cuisine at a reasonable price.

Cambridge's diverse food scene has something to offer everyone, no matter what their budget is or their dietary restrictions. There are plenty of budget-friendly and delicious options to choose from in this foodie heaven, ranging from cosy cafés to trendy eateries. So, next time you want a delicious meal, explore the culinary delights in Cambridge.
06:10 No comments
AD – GIFTED | With Christmas Day fast approaching, are you looking for an alternative to the traditional turkey for your Christmas Dinner, but not sure what to have? Why not take a look at Swaledale Butchers, and see what tickles your fancy!

Let's face it, a whole turkey is probably the most traditional meat for Christmas dinners, but sometimes it's nice to switch it up and try something new. Whether you opt for chicken, beef, ham, lamb, or even fish, there is so much choice depending on your preferences, you will be spoilt for choice.

I was kindly gifted a selection of meats from Swaledale Butchers, who put together a delicious Christmas meat box for me to try out, and I can tell you now, I was not disappointed! These meat boxes are simply showcasing some of The Dales' most delicious seasonal cuts of native breed meat that they have to offer. This includes grass-fed, dry-aged on the bone >28 days beef, outdoor reared native breed pork, Yorkshire's tastiest pasture-fed lamb, free-range, herb-fed chicken, Harewood Estate's wild estate-reared venison and award-winning sausages and bacon.

christmas dinner

Topside of Beef
Beef often comes to mind when choosing alternative Christmas meats, and for good reason. It's such a versatile type of meat, that can be accompanied by so many other dishes, making it a popular choice during the festive season. Beef is enjoyed by a small percentage of the population on Christmas day. Yet, at Swaledale butchers, they specialise in native breed products, and have seen a 15% increase in our Christmas orders containing native and traditional beef roasting joints yearly. The topside of beef is such an underrated cut, and something that you should definitely consider if you're a lover of roast beef. Partnered with crispy roast potatoes and parsnips, Yorkshire puddings and gravy, what more could you ask for?

Free Range Ham Joints
Another popular choice for Christmas Dinner is joints of ham. A perfect choice for those hosting a large amount of guests, and to feed a crowd over the festive period. A joint of delicious dry-cured ham is the ultimate celebration piece for your festive food selection. Such versatile meat that can be served hot alongside your traditional roast potatoes, vegetable and gravy, or even as leftovers with a salad and roast vegetables, or simply eaten cold for sandwiches, you'll have endless amounts of options.

Pigs in Blankets
Finally, not so much an alternative, but what Christmas Dinner would be complete without the trusty pigs in blankets?! They are certainly a firm favourite in my home, and an essential to any Christmas plate. The Swaledale pigs in blankets are made even tastier with heritage breed pork from the Yorkshire Dales; simply-seasoned pork sausages wrapped with rashers of dry-cured, smoked streaky bacon, for the perfect flavour combination. When cooking mine, I love to pan fry them, and once fully cooked, I drizzle over a small amount of honey, garlic, and rosemary for the ultimate flavour combination!

What meat do you have for your Christmas dinner? Would you consider looking for an alternative to Turkey?
21:16 No comments
AD| Whiskey is a drink that divides people. Not in the literal sense - when friends gather together to enjoy a dram of a good whiskey, it encourages conviviality and a good feeling. No, what divides people is talking about whiskey, specifically the different kinds, the good and the bad, the technicalities of what even constitutes a whiskey. In fact, as we’ll come to see, even the spelling of the word can lead to differences of opinion.

Below, we’ll approach some of the different kinds of whiskey from the point of view of a beginner and show what the differences are, which whiskeys will work for whom, and where the different types come from. Learning something about these differences may help you when discussing whiskey with someone whose opinions may differ from yours. 

whiskey

Scotch Whisky
As you will have noticed, Scottish versions of the beverage carry the name “whisky”, without the “E” that is usually included in the word when it comes from another country. The word is from a Gaelic translation literally meaning “water of life”, and when transliterated by Scotch distillers, “whisky” was how it was spelt. It’s not just the spelling that differs, though. Typically, whisky is made from malted barley and aged in oak casks, ideally for no fewer than three years. Whether a single or blended malt, single or blended grain, or simply a blended whisky, the Scottish form of the drink has an earthy, smoky flavour seen by many as the ultimate version.

Irish Whiskey
Known for having a smoother finish than Scotch whiskies, the Irish form of whiskey is often made from a yeast-fermented grain mash or a blend of cereals. Like its Scottish counterpart, Irish whiskey is also aged in wooden barrels, though no specific wood is prioritised. The ageing process lasts at least three years, and Irish whiskey can best be differentiated from its neighbour across the sea by the absence of that tell-tale peaty, aromatic tone. Irish whiskey is produced all over the island of Ireland.

Bourbon Whiskey
The most famous form of whiskey produced in the United States, bourbon looks and tastes markedly different from its Celtic cousins - you’ll recognise it by its fiery red colouring and its sweeter taste. The production method is different too - Bourbon is made mostly from corn and fermented in charred oak casks, ageing for up to ten years. Many people believe that Jack Daniels is the most famous bourbon, but it isn’t - it’s actually a…

Tennessee Whiskey
Similar in many ways to bourbon, the big difference with Tennessee whiskey is that it is steeped in charcoal before it is allowed into the casks for fermentation. This allows it a smokier, almost treacly taste which will be familiar to many drinkers.

Rye Whiskey
The alternative to corn-derived whiskeys, this kind is produced using a mash of no less than 51% rye along with other grains before ageing in charred barrels for no less than two years. The different production method bestows upon it a taste that can variously be described as “fruity” or “piquant”.

There are, of course, other sources for whiskey, but these are the main ones exported worldwide. Which you prefer is a matter of personal taste, although Scotch is generally favoured by the connoisseur thanks to its more complex flavour profile.

Do you like to drink whiskey? What is your favourite type?
10:00 No comments
AD| Wondering where to eat in Dublin, Ireland? Whether you currently live in Dublin or are planning a trip there, look no further! The restaurant industry is constantly growing, where you're likely to fine new restaurants popping up almost every other week. Not only is Dublin a warm and welcoming city packed with beautiful views and scenery, it's restaurant and dining scene is pretty special too!

When it comes to dining out, Ireland is so diverse with what it has to offer food and drink wise. Packed with restaurants varying in cuisines from Indian to Italian to American, as well as many restaurants offering some traditional Irish dishes. From budget-friendly to Michelin restaurants, Ireland has some great foodie spots, making it incredibly affordable and a great place to go for all price ranges.

RESTAURANT TABLE

Whether you're on the lookout for an amazing restaurant for a family get-together, a birthday party, you're looking for a private group dining location for a special occasion or just want somewhere new to try, here are some great restaurants to visit!

Clanbrassil House
Clanbrassil House is a small, casual restaurant located on the ground floor of an old restored house in Dublin. The Clanbrassil House kitchen boasts an array of menu options, focussing on seasonal small plates, using some of the best produce from the country, cooked over a wood-fired grill. This restaurant shares some of the most simple yet locally sourced homemade Irish dishes you'll find in Dublin.

Keshk Cafe
For those who love flavours of the Middle East, Keshk Cafe is the perfect dining location for those wanting something healthy, fresh and charcoal grilled to perfection. This restaurant-style modern cafe serves up some of the most delicious Mediterranean/Middle Eastern cuisine, with the main influence from an array of Egyptian, Greek and Turkish dishes, there is always something for everyone.

Chapter One
If you're looking for the ultimate elegant fine dining experience, Chapter One is a restaurant to seriously consider. This luxury one-Michelin-star restaurant highlights some of the most delicious international style cuisine, focusing on a simple cooking style with a strong French influence. Combining this with some Irish authenticity through the use of locally grown organic and artisan produce, it's a match made in heaven.

Fade Street Social
Fade Street Social boasts two spacious dining rooms, a cocktail bar and rooftop terrace all in one building, making it a great location for a group dining situation. The menu is super diverse and exciting, bursting with flavours of contemporary Irish/European cuisine, offering a range of original, interesting small plates perfect for sharing.

Banyi Japanese Dining
If you're looking for something a little different, Banyi is one of the finest Japanese & Sushi premium dining restaurants in Dublin. A traditional Asian restaurant serving amazing sushi and whole range of Japanese dishes is a perfect dining location for those who want to try something new or share different dishes between small groups. Whether you opt for an afternoon or evening visit, Banyi has a menu to suit diners throughout the day.

Have you visited Dublin, Ireland before? What are your favourite restaurants and styles of cuisine?
10:00 No comments

AD - GIFTED | If your favourite thing about Easter is the chocolate, this post is perfect for you and you may want to keep reading!

Before we get onto the chocolate, it's important to look at the story behind Easter as it is the one of the most important festivals in the Christian calendar. This holiday is simply commemorating the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, and celebrated with meaningful traditions such as sunrise services and Easter lilies. As well as these, there are some other traditions that have been incorporated into this holiday, with things such as the Easter bunny and giving Easter eggs.


If you're looking for luxury Easter eggs or even Easter hampers for the whole family, Hotel Chocolat is definitely worth checking out for your next Easter egg delivery for your nearest and dearest. You simply wont be disappointed! The founders of Hotel Chocolat wanted to make the start of a revolution in British chocolate, and were on a mission to make chocolate exciting again, and that's exactly what they have done. With plenty of Vegan Easter eggs, luxury Easter eggs, personalised Easter eggs and even Easter hampers, there's so much choice, it'll be tough to decide to to get. With delicious Easter eggs and Easter themed treats suitable for the whole family, with amazing flavours and incredible designs at an affordable price, what more could you want?

FOR THE CHILDREN

Hotel Chocolat Easter Eggs

Hotel Chocolat offer a great variety of Easter eggs and sweet treats, perfect for the little ones in your family. The ideas and designs that are aimed towards a younger audience are simply sensational and add a sense of fun into the Easter celebrations. Whether you're looking for Easter eggs for your own children, younger brothers/sisters, or your nieces/and nephews, the products featured here would make amazing Easter gifts. 

Firstly, the Elizapeck Hollow with Tiddly Pot* is the perfect duo gift that any child would absolutely love. This boxed Easter egg features a hollow caramel-milk chocolate chick on top of a pot of mini milk chocolate drops. This adorable chocolate chick was "originally sketched, painted, then hand-carved to create this exclusive treat" - simply amazing! It's not your average Easter egg, it's just cuter and a lot more fun!

If you're on the look out for a couple of smaller gifts, Hotel Chocolate also offer products perfect for that. The Elizapeck Tiddly Pot - 40% Milk Chocolate* is the ultimate chocolate snack for on-the-go and definitely an essential for when there's a chocolate craving. Although small in size, our drops are big in flavour consisting of 40% milk chocolate. Another chocolate treat is the Egg on Toast Lick*. This is a super fun themed Easter treat that is bound to be a winner. A 40% milk chocolate Easter lolly, with a white-chocolate egg that will bring a smile to anyone's face, and is a great alternative to a traditional Easter egg. A child friendly snack that wont cause any mess and you won’t end up with sticky fingers!

FOR THE TEENAGERS

Hotel Chocolat Easter Eggs

As well as Easter eggs, Hotel Chocolat also offer a selection of Easter hampers designed to share and are suitable for the whole family, but they are also a great option to buy and share amongst your friends/family. One of my favourites from the site is the Easter Family Favourites Collection*, featuring a great selection of chocolate treats, perfect for any teenager in your family. The 40% Milk Chocolate Easter Egg* would be a firm favourite of mine. This Easter egg has a naturally-coloured decorative yolk, and features right amount of sugar and cream to make this a decadent treat but without detracting from the rich cocoa flavours. 

A slightly more special, yet fun item is the Chocolate Spread Easter Sandwich*. Made with 40% milk praline half-eggs sandwiched with 50% milk chocolate, it's not your average egg-sandwich! To finish off the perfect Easter treat for the teenagers are these adorable White Chocolate City Bunnies*. These 16 little bunnies are the perfect snack-sized chocolate that are deliciously creamy, with a sweet and velvety texture.

FOR THE ADULTS

Hotel Chocolat Easter Eggs

Hotel Chocolat also offer luxury Easter eggs and treats suitable for adults. The packaging looks more grown up and has that sophisticated feel to it. Starting with the 16 Milk Chocolate City Bunnies*, perfect for sharing if you're gifting this to parents or couples. The Salted Caramel Easter Egg* is one of the most gorgeous looking Easter eggs I have ever seen, and the combination of milk chocolate and salted caramel is a match made in heaven! Make your Easter egg gift stand out, not only with the incredible flavour combination, but with this sleek and contemporary design.

Finally, The Happy Easter H-Box*; an Easter gift box brimming with 15 chocolate tiddly eggs, perfect for those who aren't fussy and love to try new flavours. This is a truly special gift for your parents/grand-parents, with flavours ranging from sumptuous caramel to a tipsy fruit cake, from Champagne to strawberries & cream, this is an ideal luxury Easter egg treat for your special loved ones!

If you're looking to treat yourself, your family or someone special this Easter, Hotel Chocolat is the place to be! Offering a delicious range of Vegan Easter eggs, luxury Easter eggs, Easter hampers and even personalised Easter eggs, whatever you choose, it's definitely going to be a great chocolate surprise. Be quick and get your Easter egg delivery now!

What are your favourite Easter eggs? Have you checked out Hotel Chocolat?

10:00 No comments
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