Dinner dilemma? Dine in for a tenner!

M&S food is a bit of a treat, really.  We've been having a laugh their 'food porn' TV ads for a couple of years now but, let's face it, they have the goods to back it up. When I was a student I was once given M&S vouchers for Christmas so that when the post-Christmas-impoverished-student blues kicked in come January, I could cheer myself up with something more desirable than beans on toast.  And though my university days are tragically behind me, M&S food is still something a bit special, something to swoon over.

But it doesn't often come particularly cheap which is why, in my mind, their (now much copied) 'dine in for £10' offer is GENIUS.  A yummy main, side dish, irresistible dessert and a bottle of wine for a tenner?  Amazing.

The expert choices made for our 'dine in for £10'

My partner went off to make the choices and came back with beef and smoked bacon meatballs (with a lentil ragu, cherry tomatoes, roasted red onions and cheddar cheese), accompanied by rosemary potatoes and a bottle of Merlot.

The meatballs were rich and warming, and the crispy potatoes were the perfect, tasty hit of carbs we all appreciate in the winter.  There was a bit of a drama when I went to start cooking and noticed that the two dishes required oven temperatures that differed by 50 degrees(!!!) but don't worry guys, I made it work!  The glass of red on the side was just right for the cold January night, and gorgeously smooth.

While it is difficult to match up on presentation compared to a meal out - the taste more than made up for that

 

I was pretty pleased with the decadent dessert that was chosen; salted caramel billionaire's dessert, with a base of chocolate crumb, salted caramel sauce, treacle mousse and a layer of Belgian chocolate ganache.  Desserts really are my weak point and M&S offer an impressively tempting selection.  At 390 cals this may have to be a once-in-a-while treat for some of us, particularly this time of year, but I cannot recommend it highly enough - rich, sweet and indulgent, it was the perfect way to round off the meal.

My one and only criticism of this offer is that, depending on what you choose, you may find that you want to add an extra side dish, which obviously bumps up the cost a little.  In this case, some salad or a few veg would've been great, and might have made us feel a little more virtuous!  But M&S have some great examples of extra side dishes so you won't have to look far.

There is such an impressive choice on offer that there really is something for everyone, and in these tough times eating out isn't really an option for all of us, so this provides a fantastic substitute that you can enjoy in comfort at home.  So go on, head to M&S and treat your partner (and yourself) this weekend - it's only a tenner and I guarantee it will get you some brownie points!

The desserts were rich and indulgent

For more information on M&S food, or to order in your dinner delight, click here.

Guest blogger  -AB

Give the gift of ‘appiness’ this Christmas with CoPilot Live

This Christmas, the ideal gift for those who love their iPhone, iPad or Android device is the award-winning CoPilot Live sat nav app.

A truly useful app which is always to hand, it is perfect for drivers and those who need pointing in the right direction. Being an app, it is a great last-minute purchase and is the perfect accompaniment for any smart devices being given this Christmas.

With CoPilot Live, your loved one can:

• Avoid traffic jams on the way to visit relatives over the festive period, using 12 months free ActiveTrafficTM
• Save on their precious data allowance, as the app downloads the maps onto the device to avoid data charges. No need to worry if there is no network signal, as the app works offline
• Fine-tune routes to avoid or go via certain locations through dragging and dropping on screen
• Never miss a turning again with ClearTurnTM to guide them through complex junctions
• Stay safe on unfamiliar routes as distracting data is hidden from view
• Find their way around on foot or bicycle as easily as by car

So of course, it was only natural to test this app out.

The first positive to note is that once the app has downloaded you get a large choice of 'maps' to download. The wider the geographical region, the larger the download size, so bearing this in mind (and the fact that I have driven abroad once in my lifetime) I selected the GB & I.

It is entirely user-friendly, from the options not to sign in with a specific ID to how specific you want to be with your address. If you only know a postcode, just put that in, and skip the 'street' and 'house number'.

This I like.

There are also options to store your 'favourite' places as home or work, to search for various points of interest, browse map, and also a clever little option called 'PhotoNav'. This is a cracking addition. Basically, such is the capability of the iPhone, when a picture is taken, provided there is some level of internet coverage, it is geotagged. CoPilot can then read this geotagging information and tell you exactly where the picture was taken, and more importantly how to get there. Clever!

On to the journey, which if you're bothered was from High Street Kensington, London, to Welwyn Garden City in Hertfordshire. I chose to use the 3D map, which while isn't street view, it is certainly clear enough.

As with many sat nav programs, the voice  is rather robotic, but this is obviously less to do with the product and more to do with taste. While it may be robotic, the pronunciation of various roads and streets was spot-on.

A major plus for this product was the advance notice it gives you of directions. A lot of other SatNav programs on Apple devices have a habit of telling you which exit to take on a roundabout when you have already arrived - not good enough when you have Mr angry lorry driver up your backside! I put this down to the satellite co-ordinates received by the app being spot on,. so top marks.

There are plenty of other features you might like to switch to for your journey, such as switching to the speed you're going at or the time remaining, although you will have to choose only two parameters, which is a shame.

Safe and sound at my destination, it was a case of job done, and job done very well. Clear and well-timed directions, warnings for speed cameras (hey, we all do it, don't judge me) and I was a happy traveller!  

Pricing & Availability:

The CoPilot Live apps are available from £24.99 for the UK & Ireland version and from £34.99 for the European version. It is available on all iPhone and Android devices.

What technology reviewers have said:

MSN, Adam Hartley – “CoPilot GPS… beats Google Maps on your phone hands down.”

The Guardian, Stuart Dredge – “CoPilot Live is one of the more established navigation apps.”

More information is available at www.copilotlive.com, on Facebook and Twitter.

Your chance to win the CoPilot app

We’ve teamed up with CoPilot Live to give away two iPhone CoPilot Live Premium UK & Ireland apps. CoPilot Live is the best-selling app that turns your iPhone, iPad or Android into a full voice-guided sat nav.

Features include:

✔ Turn-by-turn voice directions to addresses, hotels and points of interest throughout Europe 

✔ Maps stored on your phone, not downloaded via 3G

✔Powerful route calculation and automatic re-calculation if you miss a turn

✔ Lane indicator arrows and ClearTurn™ display for clear directions at complex junctions ✔ Driver-friendly 3D and 2D driving views with speed-variable zoom and street names

✔ 12 months free Active Traffic service

✔ Navigate to a full UK post code or address book contact ✔ Speed camera warnings included as standard ✔ Speed limit warnings, and much more!

The CoPilot Live apps are available via iTunes and Google Play from £24.99 for the UK & Ireland version and from £34.99 for the European version.

To be in with your chance of winning the app just follow me @reviews_live as well as @copilotlive on Twitter and re-tweet: RT to win a CoPilot Live Premium UK&Ireland App from @reviews_live + @copilotlive http://tinyurl.com/czqq4yc 

Scrumptious food - Made in Mayfair

Mayfair.  Now, I can hardly claim to frequent the area.  It is by no means my stomping ground, and I can't pretend that I would ever be at home in The Ritz.  In fact, if I'm honest, I don't think they'd let me in.  But if you feel the same about this rather upmarket area of our dear capital city, but find yourself lost and in need of a beer and some bloody good pub grub, then fear not!  Take a left down Dover Street and step inside The Clarence.

The Clarence, Dover Street, London

On entering the pub, I was instantly hit by the warm atmosphere, the aroma of mulled wine in the air, and the bustle of people enjoying a few post-work beverages in the run-up to the festive season.  It seemed to be the perfect place for a cosy winter drink, and while you can dine in the bar area, I highly recommend taking the steps upstairs to the restaurant where you can choose from the same menu, but enjoy the benefits and comfort of quieter surroundings alongside impeccable table service.

After catching the sweet and spicy fragrance of the mulled wine in the bar area I'd already decided what my drink for the evening would be; sweetly flavoured and perfectly warm it was a fantastic start to the evening.  My partner took the excellent advice of our server for the evening, Anna, and tried a couple of ales throughout the meal, and all were thoroughly enjoyed.  There is a great selection and, if you are an ale drinker, you should definitely take advantage of the knowledge and expertise of the staff as they will be more than happy to find the right one for you.

We chose a pint of the Nicholson's home ale, and a festive mulled wine

For my starter I went for the smoked Scottish salmon, and what an absolutely great start to the meal.  The salmon was delicately flavoured, and was complemented perfectly by the yummy, salty cornichons (which might not be your bag but have a go, don't be pathetic).  I didn't finish all of the soda bread this was served with this as I found it a little heavy for a starter, but if you have a bigger appetite than me, get stuck in.  My partner went for the crispy squid with garlic mayonnaise; a generous portion and steaming hot with perfectly crispy batter.

The Scottish smoked salmon starter

Crispy squid starter

 My partner didn't hold back on the main and went for the ribeye steak, served with chips and a peppercorn sauce, plus two enormous king prawns to 'surf' it.  This was a proper man-feast and was beautifully cooked, and definitely enjoyed, but it's not a particularly cheap choice, and there are plenty of other delicious options on the menu if you find this one a little pricey. 

The fish basket main course was positively loaded!

I went for the basket of fish, which included cod goujons, scampi, king prawns and calamari, served with chips and tartare sauce.  The fish was really delicious, and beautifully presented in a basket with a stack of crispy chips on the side.  The portion was very generous, but I personally would have preferred a smaller amount, but served with some salad on the side - this came with no garnish at all which, for me, was the only thing I missed.  There is, however, a good selection of sides on the menu, including the house salad or vegetables, but whether you add these in or not, you won't be going hungry!

Dessert was out of the question, much as it pains me to say it, as we were way too full, so I chose to have a pot of tea whilst my partner went for an Amaretto latte (I nicked a bit when he was looking the other way and it was delicious, take it from me). 

Anna gave fantastic service, and was extremely attentive and helpful, and very keen to give assistance and advice.  She is a real credit to the company.

If you are ever in the area I thoroughly recommend a trip to The Clarence.  You will receive a warm welcome and friendly service, as well as some really good quality British pub food.  Then you can round off your evening with a stroll to see the Christmas lights, or perhaps down to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park.  Or you can pop next door to Mahiki and pull a celebrity.

This wasn't your usual surf 'n' turf as you can see!

Guest blogger - AB

Click here to make a booking or for more information on The Clarence, Mayfair.

Sweet treats for a more traditional Christmas

It's that time of the year that causes so many of us undue stress, intense deliberations, and sleepless nights.

Ok, well perhaps the sleepless nights might be a bit of an extreme description, but buying friends and family CHRISTMAS PRESENTS is often less fun and more stressful.

With there being so many gadgets and gizmos out there, it's easy to forget about the more 'traditional' gifts that used to be the norm at this time of year.

So here, I am going to take a look at a selection of gifts, for both sexes, that could be a wise choice for loved ones at Christmas.

Can you prove yourself to be a 'Smart Ass'

Smart Ass - University Games

This is a board game, with a difference. It encourages competitiveness while keeping that element of fun.
The basic description is that all players, barring the reader (which changes at each dice roll) has to answer either a 'Who am I?' 'What am I?' or Where am I?' question. There are 10 clues, and the beauty is that any player can shout out their 'guess' at any point. Beware though, if you guess incorrectly though, you have to sit out.

Get your question correct, and you roll the dice to move around a fairly small game-board, with the ultimate aim to reach the end, which is the 'donkey's ass'!

The more players the better, so I would say at least three. The beauty of it is even if you get the question right, land on a bad square on the board, and you could be going back three spaces. But it remains key to get the questions correct, and importantly, first!

The lovely volunteers had a fun time trying to reach the Ass!

Also, the games don't take too long to complete, which means you can go again, and read through more of the substantial question cards again.

A couple of criticisms - it is perhaps not so visually appealing, but that is far from the most important thing. Also, there should be card holders, as they have a tendency to slide off each other, and are easy to be knocked around, etc.

All in all though, this should certainly be considered as a Christmas gift, and one that can be played straight after you've finished your turkey!

Smart Ass travel would make a fun stocking filler (RRP £9.99), stockist include Argos, Toys R Us, Amazon and Tesco.
 

Give the gift of good furtune this Christmas with
Jura Superstition

 

Jura Superstition - Jura Whisky

Jura distillery has Christmas all wrapped up this year with its award-winning Superstition whisky, which comes with a generous measure of good fortune for all lucky recipients.

Superstition, with its mysterious spirit, unique style and character, has a subtle taste of spice, honey, pine, peat and a whisper of smoke - ideal flavours to complement the festive season.

The community of Jura, known as Diurachs, regard the island as a place of myth, legend and intrigue and for thousands of years good fortune and mystery has enhanced island life.

In recognition of these mythical qualities, the Egyptian symbol of good fortune and immortality, the Ankh cross, is displayed on the front of every bottle of Superstition. Islanders believe everyone can enjoy some good fortune by holding the Ankh cross firmly in the centre of your palm while pouring the malt.

Jura distillery manager, Willie Cochrane, said: “Superstition encapsulates the island’s mystical properties and the superstitious nature of the islanders. One particular Diurach is believed to have lived to see over a hundred Christmases on the island, so I for one like to believe Jura Superstition does bring good fortune.”

“Superstition’s lightly peated taste with hints of smoke and spice is perfect to warm up even the coldest winter’s night.  Its honey and spice flavours also perfectly complement a range of Christmas dishes, working especially well with cheeses. Or for those having an alternative to turkey, it works well with meats with added tang such as gammon steak, salted pork or game.”

Jura Superstition is available to purchase online at www.isleofjura.com/shop for £36.

Barratt Sweets - Tangerine Confectionary 



Go old school with this delightful sherbert-filled mug

 

Tired of giving socks and umbrellas as stocking fillers? Fear not - Barratt is here to rescue Christmas, with some of its best-loved sweets in festive gift format. Christmas is the perfect time to rekindle childhood memories, which is why Barratt has introduced three nostalgic gifts for you to impress your retro-sweet loving friends and family.

For the Sherbet Fountain enthusiasts, a limited edition Sherbet Fountain mug (RRP £4.99) containing four tubes of Sherbet Fountain, is enough to make fans cheer with Christmas joy!  For the liquorice purists out there, the Catherine Wheels tin (RRP £3.99), is a great pencil case sized gift, filled to the brim with Catherine Wheel treats.

Barratt’s time capsule (RRP £4.99) contains all your childhood favourite sweets, sealed into a sweetie cylinder capsule that can be used as a money box once empty – the perfect gift for big and small kids alike! The capsule contains the bestselling Barratt sweets - Black Jacks, Fruit Salads, Sherbet Fountains, Dip Dabs, Flumps, Refreshers and Nougat. 

Barratt’s Christmas gifts are available from B&M, BHS, Matalan, Selfridges and a selection of independent specialist stores. To keep up to date with all the news from Barratt sweets, visit www.facebook.com/barrattsweets

The Shape Of Shit To Come (book)

 

A great present for the man who loves his gadgets and can’t wait for the next big thing... Once, we were promised hover boards, jet packs, robot servants and flying cars but so far this has been a sci-fi future that has never turned up. But what if it really is on its way now?

The Shape of Shit To Come comes from the rather bitter minds of Steve Lowe and Alan McArthur, authors of the mega-selling, Is It Just Me Or Is Everything Shit?

They take readers on a funny and unsurprisingly sarcastic tour of a near future that is taking shape before our very own (jaded) eyes. This is a future apparently full of sex robots, hotels floating in space and children making their own pets with gene-splicing kits.

You Can Stick It (book)

 

Perfect for rebellious brothers and bored boyfriends, You Can Stick It is the activity book for adults. Forget spray cans, Banksy and toilet cubicle graffiti, stickering is the true form of artistic expression.

This book is the ideal antidote to the age of calorie-counting, Health and Safety and parental control. Mysterious designer PK Munroe, the originator of the current stickering craze, has created hundreds of hilarious, subversive and just plain silly stickers to help you hit back at the bossy, finger-wagging experts who think they are in charge.



Juvenile, irresponsible, and completely pointless, You Can Stick It is the sticky, stress-busting self-help book for our times.

Christmas time, mistletoe and..... ALE!

As a follow-up to the fantastic afternoon sampling Nicholson's ale festival specialities, I was cordially invited to sample the company's Christmas ales one evening at the De Hems Dutch Cafe Bar in Soho London.

Accompanying me on this festive delight was long-time school friend Daniel.

Nicholson’s Pubs celebrates the festive season by producing a selection of seven exclusive Christmas Ales in collaboration with some of the UK’s key top brewers.

The speakers line up to present their Christmas ales

The company’s experienced Cask Masters have specially crafted their own ales, brewed in collaboration with Moorhouse, Oxfordshire, Andwells, Broughton, Sambrooks, Vale and Brentwood breweries and available across over 80 pubs nationwide throughout December 2012. 

So our evening involved tasting the seven specialities on offer, and here they are, with a brief description, our thoughts and ratings!

Ding Dong - but did it make the bells ring?

Ding Dong

ABV: 4.5%
Taste: A warm chestnut beer with a rich marmalade aroma
Brewery: Andwell

This was our first Christmas ale of the evening, and was some start. It had a sweet, dessert flavour, and as oppose to some other ales that promises a flavour it can't really provide, the sweet aftertaste of marmelade was delightful.

Scores

Daniel - 7

John - 8

Meads Must

ABV: 4.7%
Taste: A superb dark ruby red ale with a hint of honey and quince.
Brewery: Oxfordshire

Although higher in ABV content than the first, this ale lacked any kind of bite, and had a rather weak aftertaste. We both deduced that unfortunately it's smell, which was rich and sweet, was better than its taste.

Scores

Daniel -6

John - 5

The representatives from those involved with The Only Way Is Santa  put on an enthusiastic presentation

Five Gold Rings

ABV: 4.8%
Taste: A dark mahogany coloured brew with an aroma of roasted malt, the taste of fruit and subtle spice flavours are followed by a long , warm and slightly bitter finish.
Brewery: Vale

A lovely, warm and spicy ale, a real winter special. This had a good, all-round solid taste which could be felt in between drinks. Although early in the evening, we knew this was going to be up there with the best.

Scores

Daniel -7

John -8

 
London Winter Ale

ABV: 4.6%
Taste: A deep red ale which takes its spicy aroma from a blend of English hops.  With a rich sweet and tangy taste this beer is an ideal accompaniment to steak, venison, game and Christmas Pudding.
Brewery: Sambrookes

Both of us had heard of the Sambrookes brewery, so were pleasantly surprised to hear that it had only been brewing from Battersea since 2008. And with this concoction, they are on to a winner. It had a real chocolatey taste, and we felt was one of the more powerful on the palate of the evening.

Scores

Daniel -8

John -7

Elves Bells

ABV: 4%
Taste: A deep chestnut brown coloured ale, brewed with Maris Otter malted barley and crystal malt to give hints of sweet malt, biscuit and caramel tones.  Balanced by the use of cascade hops to give floral and spice notes on the nose, there is a pleasant full bitterness in the aftertaste.
Brewery: Moorhouse

This was the 'most drinkable' ale of the evening - that is to say it was the one most suited to staying on all night. This may be to do with the alcohol content, but it was also to do with its succinct, dessert taaste, where each of the ingredients were discernable. Also, the fact that is was devoid of sugar added to its popularity!

Scores

Daniel -8

John -8

The Only Way Is Santa

ABV: 5.2%
Taste: A rich ruby beer with a smooth malt character, Willamette hops give this beer spicy, blackcurrant aromas and flavours. Plums and cinnamon have been added to compliment the beers character with a delectably rich flavour and a gentle spice. 
Brewery: Brentwood

The highest ABV of the evening, and also, the joint-highest overall score from our ratings! While Joey Essex and Chloe Simms from TOWIE may not choose this tipple on their night out in the Sugar Hut, Essex should be very proud of this particular concoction (could these characters also be labelled 'concoctions' though??). We were told this ale gives you 'one of your five-a-day' and if five glasses of this sorted that out, then we'll raise our glass to that!

Scores

Daniel -9

John -8

Santa's Oatmeal Stout SOS

ABV: 4.8%
Taste: Bursting with oatmeal and chocolate aromas, this dark brown ale uses a blend of five malts and oats, delivering a mouthful of smooth roasted flavours and a lingering rich taste.
Brewery: Broughton

Certainly one of the liveliest ales on the palate of the evening, and with a lingering taste in the mouth and throat, this finished joint-top in the ratings with The Only Way Is Santa. Again, the flavours mingled exceptionally well, and the aftertaste left us wanting more. It felt as strong as the previous ale, and felt, as we did here, it would be the perfect pint to round off an evening with (and probably start off with too!).

Scores

Daniel -9

John -8

The presentations all came across as genuine and knowledgable

After the presentations from representatives from the various breweries were finished, expertly hosted by British Craft Guild of Beer Writers member and author Melissa Cole, those present were invited to help themselves to the casks of Christmas ales. There was no desire to take advantage of the volume of alcohol on offer - it was the kind of night to enjoy the varied tastes of all the respective ales, chat to others present, and then be on our sober way home.

Well, most of that is true!

For more information on Nicholson's Christmas Ales, visit the website at www.nicholsonspubs.co.uk

Nicholson’s offers an historic and distinctive collection of pubs across the UK, with warm and inviting hospitality through its authentic British pub atmosphere.  Delivering quality hearty British classics served with a modern twist, take a break from Christmas shopping and enjoy lunch or dinner at many of the hidden upstairs dining rooms.  Alternatively the festive menus provide a great solution for office get-togethers or groups of friends and family.

Guest ales are expertly matched with dishes from the food menu, or alternatively, experience Nicholson’s equalled passion for fine wine with its impressive cellars containing classics and vintages from the old and new world.  

 

 

 

Could you conquer The Monster?

TGI Friday's, Covent Garden, soon filled up

Covent Garden, London is probably one of the busiest places to be in Autumn/Winter as the area gets ready to celebrate the festive season in its own, flamboyant style.

So a trip to review TGI Friday's left me feeling apprehensive, and the battle-plan was drawn on how to navigate through the tourist-majority crowds and then on how best to attract attention in what would blatantly be a full restaurant.

I was wrong on one count.

Yes, there were plenty of people milling about, making their way to see the Christmas carols being belted out by the market entrance, but once inside the American-themed eatery, there was the pleasant realisation that service should be decent judging by a fair amount of empty seats.

We had booked our table for 7pm on a Wednesday night, and after introducing ourselves to the front desk, we were shown to our seats, given a drinks and food menu with a cheerful smile.

One negative, which was fairly evident, was the size of the table and the close proximity not only to other diners, but also that it was right on the walkway. Also, there were a couple of sticky patches on the table, and a prawn on the floor underneath the table opposite caught my eye. But with the nature of the trade of TGI's it is near-impossible to keep on top of everything all the time, so an issue wasn't made of this.

Obviously the idea of the business is to get as many people in as possible, keeping the service prompt so as to keep a revolving door of custom. But this led to there already appearing to be an atmosphere of rush and bustle - waiters and waitresses were near-jogging around. But we will call this the American-themed enthusiastic atmosphere!


Paradise Punch

Strawberry Surprise

We ordered a cocktail each after being introduced to our friendly waitress for the evening, Bella. I plumped for the Paradise Punch, which was Southern Comfort, Luxardo Amaretto, BOLS Grenadine and SKYY vodka with pineapple, orange and lime juices. My partner was on the non-alcoholic cocktails for the evening, and went for the Strawberry Surprise, which was frozen strawberry, apple and pineapple juices topped with soda. (For cocktail menu, click here).

The only complaint I would say is that, the fruit juices perhaps overshadow some of the alcohol tones, but as some have told me recently, that's the trick of cocktails that keeps you ordering more. The Strawberry Surprise wasn't so much of a surprise as it went down well, although the strawberry flavour was a little too weak, which when the ice melts, tends to get lost completely.

All the while, the place was filling up, the noise-levels were rising, and the walkway next to our table was becoming more trafficy.

The Monster Burger - prior to being attacked

Finished - like a boss

We decided on mains only, and I knew even before getting there, what I was going to choose.

The Monster burger. A 12oz burger heaped with crispy bacon, sliced Colby cheese, Cajun-battered onion rings, and Friday's mayo on a toasted seeded bun with fresh cos lettuce, red onion and beef tomato. All served with crispy fries. (Click food menu, click here).

The menu asked the question 'can you handle it?' and the answer, proved by me, was yes (although it was a struggle)!

I felt like Adam Richman from the hit American TV programme Man v Food. I began to plan how to tackle the mound on my plate. The best idea would be to tackle the burger as priority, eating the chips sparingly even if it meant there would be quite a few left at the end. One plan went out the window immediately - there was no time for messing around with a knife and fork, this had to be done in real cave-man style.

The French Canadian Twisted Burger

So, despite not being able to get my mouth around the full height of the burger, I battled through, enjoying every minute of the succulent and gristle-free meat, perfectly complemented by a cool and refreshing sauce.

And in about 20 minutes, I had completed my task. Albeit some time after my partner, who went for the lighter French Canadian 'twisted burger'.

This was a grilled chicken breast basted with sweet Canadian maple syrup and topped with crispy bacon and creamy melted French brie, on a classic toasted bun with cos lettuce, beef tomato and red onion, served with a creamy garlic mayo.

Purple Rain, back, and Hawaiian Island
Surfer, front

The maple syrup was succinct and just-about sweet, however it was noted that the bun being sweet too, perhaps overloaded that particular taste. The chicken was well cooked and flavoursome on its own, without being overpowering.

During my intense war with The Monster, I ordered in another cocktail, Purple Rain.

This is Bacardi Superior rum, BOLS Blue Curacao, SKYY vodka and Chambord with a drizzle of BOLS Grenadine, it looked good, and tasted amazing - my same criticism that it was hard to distinguish the individual alcohols. However, the mix was refreshing and wickedly-coloured.

My partner went for the Hawaiian Island surfer, Peaches, pina colada, pineapple juice and orange sherbet, with vanilla flavor ice cream. This was a really flavoursome concoction, which maintained it's taste till the very end.

It was decided, after sweating my way through my mound of meat, that we would have hot drinks as our 'dessert,' I want for a cappuccino and my partner, as traditional as she is, went for a tea. They arrived well presented with enough sugar and milk.

The service throughout from Bella was excellent, she was always prepared to come over when I caught her eye, she also, and I think this is vital in the restaurant industry, gave her opinions and recommendations on the food and cocktail menu.

On summing up this restaurant, I would say it is somewhere you should go if you are really hungry. Although I can't make judgement on the salad and lighter options, it is a very main-meat orientated venue, and without trying a sizeable burger, steak or fajita you really would be missing out.

But don't rule out popping in for a cocktail - the variety is excellent, alcoholic and non-alcoholic. And perhaps during the week might be a good idea to beat the queues!

Scores on the doors (out of 10)

Setting - 7
Service - 8
Quality of food - 8
Cleanliness - 7

Total score  - 30/40

To make a booking for TGI Friday's, Covent Garden, click here

Enjoy some top-quality meat at TGI Friday's

 

Stuck for a Christmas present? Check these out!

Picture courtesy of photostock

With only weeks to go till the big day, town centres are becoming congested as the mad rush to stock up your Christmas gift collection goes into overdrive.

For those who prefer to browse the web to choose their festive delights, the stresses of knowing what to get who and why may well lead to the need to reach for a stiff drink.

As well as being an enjoyable time to spend with family and friends, Christmas brings trials and tribulations that make Easter egg selection look like a walk in the park. The trusty 'socks for dad' is perhaps not so trusty anymore with the range of technology available in many outlets.

But there are always innovative, and perhaps simple ideas that could be just what is needed to raise a smile around the turkey dinner.

In this piece I will review six items, ranging from alcohol delights to delightful touches that I feel should be considered as excellent options for Christmas presents for friends and family. Included at the end of each review will be a link to the product website, where you can snap up the relevant festive delight.

Please visit the 'Reviews' tab, accessible at the top of this page where you will find individual pieces on the six, as well as a best of the rest section. You can also view picture galleries of all the products. Hope this helps you with your Christmas selections!

The designs will go down well with the wearer

Frugi – scrumptious organic clothes

I probably should leave till the last so you continue reading on the Christmas present that will want you clicking on the link and ordering away, but let's grab the attention immediately.

Clothing from Frugi – which is Latin for 'fruits of the earthy' are simply adorable! Originally set up in 2004 by Lucy and Kurt Jewson, a couple who wanted to develop sustainable clothing that would fit a cloth-nappy wearing baby, the brand has developed majestically, both is design and substance.

The clothing is ethically manufactured cotton, which will not only please the parent for piece of mind and washing ease, but also the baby/toddler who will feel comfortable and content.

The designs of Frugi clothing are simply adorable (posed by model)

From jumpers and cardigans to trousers and dungarees, for both boys and girls, as well as comfortable nursing wear for mothers, the Cornwall couple have extended their range in order to be a top choice in the baby-range.

The designs are not only cute and pleasing to the eye for the parent, but also, and importantly, to the child wearing the clothing, which can only aid to the struggles of bringing up a child.

Frugi has been nationally recognised, and with modern designs as well as a mission statement that brings home all that should be good with the production of clothing, this company's clothing range would be an excellent choice when considering what to buy for a baby/toddler.

Visit the website at www.welovefrugi.com for more information, as well as to order your presents online.



Yes...the new next top model (me)

Expedition Healthy Back Bag

So, receiving a bag for Christmas might not seem all that exciting, but wait! How about a bag that won't make extra work for your back or shoulder and is still big enough to store your all-important items.

This is a unique teardrop shape which contours to the natural curve of the spine to make a heavy load feel light.

Weight is distributed asymmetrically throughout the length of the bag, rather than pulling from one point keeping the stress off you back and the bag in place.

Versatile, stylish and practical the bags can be worn cross-body or on the shoulder. The multi-pocketed interior and exterior of the bag make for easy organisation and the double zip is always against the body for extra security. The wearer can access the contents of the bag without having to take it off.

The Expedition Bag is made of strong, water resistant cotton twill. It is robust and long lasting and comes in a neutral selection of colours paired with retro-rugged styling and leather trim for a everyday use or outdoor activities. It's macho-looking and the large sized bag is big enough to take a laptop or documents. These bags are also great for students and young dudes

Men also like the Healthy Back Bag's leather styles and the Classic Leather HBB is available in black, espresso or chestnut colours. £112. They make great gifts for him.

For her we have the new 'BoHo' Healthy Back Bag that's glamorous and chic with retro overtones. It is made of durable, synthetic leather material that is both soft and water resistant.

There are a variety of healthy back bags to choose from

The bags feature curved outer pockets and a fun colourful shoulder strap and pocket detailing styled on a vintage 1960s guitar strap! Funky yet functional, this new addition to the Healthy Back Bag range comes in Teal, Grey, Purple or Black and retails for £56

OR, try the new Vintage Canvas Healthy Back Bag. Made of durable cotton canvas, the fabric is distressed to give a weathered, waxed vintage look. It is water resistant and robust making it perfect for active, outdoor lifestyles. Bags are available in Brown, Blue and Olive and retail for £65.

Available from selected independents or on line at www.healthybackbag.co.uk

Very different to your usual 'socks'

Heat Holders - the ultimate thermal socks

The old adage that socks are just the usual, last-minute present that will be less gratefully accepted and more accepted go out the window with this product - Heat Holders.

Heat Holders are diverse, fashionable socks that keep feet more than seven times warmer than normal cotton socks. Long term exposure to cold conditions can not only have detrimental effects to your feet, but to your overall health.

With a tog rating of 2.34, Heat Holders provide a practical and economical alternative to layering socks.

The unique patent pending extra long looped thermal pile which is unique to Heat Holders has been newly developed. This innovative knitting technology locks in warm air, holding this closer to the skin, keeping feet warmer for longer. The soft brushed inner adds comfort and softness where feet need it the most.

Their gentle grip prevents rubbing or discomfort that may be experienced from a sock with a lower tog rating. Furthermore the advanced insulating yarn created for Heat Holders provides high performance insulation and superior moisture wicking abilities.

As the RRP for a pair of Heat Holdersstarts at just £7.99, they are perfect as a bargain buy that can be used time and time again.

The intense heat on offer from Heat Holders socks lead to huge demand for similar products to keep extremities warm in the cold weather. Heat Holders response was warming and breathable thermal hats and gloves, which priced at £10, launched onto the market last year. This year, Heat Holders will be releasing a thermal underwear range, priced from £14 as well as a leggings and tights range, priced at a reasonable £8 each, plus much more to come.

Check www.heatholders.com for more information and to put your order in!

Why not try a Scotch Whisky and Cola

The gift of Grant's

Show someone your appreciation this Christmas with a quality gift from Grant’s, the award-winning family owned blended Scotch whisky.

When you’re struggling to find the perfect stocking filler, offer the discerning whisky lover or someone who just enjoys the occasional dram, the chance to discover a different angle on their favourite tipple with the Grant’s Whisky Discovery Collection gift pack.

With a whisky for everyone to savour and enjoy, the gift pack is priced from £7.00 and is available at selected outlets.

The Grant’s Discovery Collection caters to all tastes - whether it’s appreciating The Family Reserve for a complex, clean and fruity flavour, the Ale Cask Finish for a creamy, malty and honeyed taste or experiencing the Sherry Cask Finish that imparts distinctive sherry, wood notes. Grant’s has it covered.

Give the gift of Grant’s and discover a different angle yourself by mixing the ultimate Christmas Cocktail – Grant’s Redfire. By mixing together Grant’s Family Reserve Whisky, cherry brandy, a splash of tonic and for an unsuspecting surprise garnish with a single sage leaf, you are guaranteed to be left feeling truly indulged and in the spirit.

As they say, good things come in small packages and they don’t come much better than the Grant’s pre-mixed serve – ideal for any occasion. So the next time you fancy trying something new, why not pick up this little treat and take the stress out of creating the perfect serve, allowing you more time to enjoy a richer, deeper experience.

The pre-mixed serve of Scotch Whisky & Cola is perfect for that final present to fill the stocking to the brim.

The new Grant’s Whisky Discovery Collection gift pack is priced from £7.00 and is available at selected outlets. Grant’s Scotch Whisky & Cola is available in a 250ml can and has an ABV of 6.6%, from £2.00 at selected Tesco and Asda stores nationwide.

For more information on Grant’s Whisky visit www.grantswhisky.com/uk

My lovely gift!

Who's got a sweet tooth then?

Now this offering is simply delightful.

Choose your jar size, choose your sweets, and then personalise your gift and the lucky recipient will receive a superb jar of sweets with a very special Christmas label (as shown by my gift, right)!

Posh Pick & Mix have a wide range of sweets on offer including Fizzy Cola Bottles, Shrimps, Oreo Cookie Flavoured Popcorn, Jelly Beans, Pear Drops, Candy Watches, Liquorice All Sorts, Chewy Snakes, Fizzy Strawberry Bites and Fizzers.

And it's as simple as that. All you do is visit the website, www.poshpickandmix.com, select your jar size, select your sweets, and select your message, which will be printed on the front of the jar.

You will also receive a cute little sweet scoop to fish out your scrumptious delights!

Not only that, but the sweet jar is delivered immaculately packaged which guarantees a smile from the person who peels off the packaging.

All jars are dispatched within 48 hours, so you best get involved now!

Are you man (or woman) enough?

Add a bit of a kick to Christmas with a unique connoisseur chilli sauce specially chosen by Hot-Headz!, stockists of the largest selection of all things chilli in the UK www.hot-headz.com.

It’s original, has fantastic novelty value and is something that will be used! In fact we believe a bottle of chilli sauce is the perfect stocking filler for any male of the species, guaranteed to bring Yuletide cheer and warmth! A Perfect gift for the office Christmas party too!

We all know there is a love hate relationship between men and chillies.

They can’t resist the temptation and yet when they indulge they end up asking themselves ‘why on earth did I do that’ whilst swilling down gallons of water to kill the heat  - and then they go and do it again! It’s all down to the endorphins that chillies make us produce by creating a sense of euphoria, along with a pinch of male bravado no doubt!

And with a bottle of superb provenance chilli sauce from Hot-Headz! typically costing from £3.99 to £6.99, it won’t make a dent in the old wallet. So why not buy a bottle or even a few. 

Here are our top five ‘connoisseurs’ recommendations to choose from, gradually moving up the heat scale from ‘beginners mild’ to ‘it’ll blow your head off’ (In addition to the heat, the range of flavours, colours and textures are genuinely quite remarkable and varied, just like with wines, so why not try a few and do a tasting):

1. Tapatio Hot Sauce - This year marks the 40th Anniversary of this Mexican inspired sauce that's found on every table top in bars and restaurants across the USA. A robust cayenne pepper sauce with great flavour and a sweet citrusy tang that's good for all round use. A perfect‘easy on the heat’ sauce for the chilli novice! Hot-Headz heat rating: 3/10. £3.99

2. Brother Bru-Bru's Mild African Pepper Sauce - a mouth watering blend of chilli peppers, garlic and Brother Bru Bru’s rare African spices. Brother Bru Bru is in fact no other than session musician Bruce Langhorne who used to play with Bob Dylan. It's a fact that Dylan wrote Mr.Tambourine Man about Bruce. Yes that's him on the label! Splash it on or in everything! Hot-Headz heat rating: 5/10. £3.99

3. Pyromania! Wanna play with Fire? Made with habanero peppers and chipotle "Chee-Poht-Lay" (smoked jalapeno) peppersfor a wonderful rich and smoky hot sauce that's great on everything from eggs and vegetables to fish, meat, rice, pasta and tofu. Getting warmer. Hot-Headz heat rating: 7/10. £3.99

4. Hot-Headz own‘Who Dares Burns! Crushed Naga Hot Sauce’ - Now we're getting serious! A whopping 65% chilli pepper content gives this all natural sauce a killer heat with fresh, fresh flavour! The Naga Bhut Jolokia is the Guinness Book of World Records holder of the Hottest Chilli in the World. We've skilfully blended these deadly hot chilli peppers with select ingredients to make the tastiest Naga sauce on the market. In skiing parlance, this is definitely black run. Hot-Headz heat rating: 9/10. £3.99

5. Mad Dog 357 - Claiming to be the ‘World's Hottest Sauce’ this is about as hot as you can go without being classed as a food additive. This‘not for the faint of heart’ sauce has a blend of 160,000 scoville super hot cayenne peppers, fiery hot red habanero peppers and finally a whopping 2,000,000 scoville pepper extract. Totally off-piste! A tongue scorching 357,000 Scoville unit sauce. Hot-Headz heat rating: 11/10. £7.49 (Collectors Edition with bullet key chain containing tiny tasting spoon! 600,000 Scoville units - £9.95)

To purchase: Go to www.hot-headz.com to order on-line or call: 01453 731052. P&P (UK Mainland): £2.00 - £6.75 depending on no of items ordered. Free delivery on orders over £100. Some products in the selection may need to be altered due to availability.