THEGAYUK

Category: Lifestyle

  • RECIPE | Spiced Whole Roasted Cauliflower

    Serves 2
    Prep 10 mins
    Cook 40-60 mins (dependant on the size of your cauliflower)

    The marinade for the roasted cauliflower is buzzing with Indian twangs; turmeric, cumin, curry powder, and lime fuse together to create some serious zing, which is then mellowed down by the natural yoghurt. This is a lovely, unusual side-dish to serve as part of an Indian themed meal. It also looks rather pretty. I like to serve the leftover marinade alongside the dish.

    The marinade will keep in the fridge in an air-tight container for a few days which I then use as a dip for vegetable sticks, or you could also marinade some chicken breast pieces and skewer, placing under the grill until cooked through, for an Eastern style kebab. I like serving this side with my Lamb & Lentils, and a plain salad of vine tomatoes and cucumber.

    CAULIFLOWER: This vegetable remained rather underrated for some time, but with 100g of cauliflower equating to 80% of your vitamin C intake, some are crowning cauliflower as the new kale. (SOURCE: http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/cauliflower.html ) Its popularity is probably at its peak when it is smothered in a cheese sauce alongside a Sunday roast. Cauliflower is also a good source of B-complex vitamins which are required for essential bodily functions, such as energy production. Cauliflower contains sulforaphane, a compound which has had results in killing cancer stem cells. (SOURCE; http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2014/02/22/cauliflower-health-benefits.aspx)

    TURMERIC: There has been much press coverage around turmeric and it’s benefits of late. Turmeric can rapidly increase the antioxidant capacity in your body. Turmeric contains curcumin which has been linked to prevention and possible treatment of cancer.

    In fact, research shows that the turmeric and cauliflower combination may help and treat prostate cancer. (SOURCE; http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2014/02/22/cauliflower-health-benefits.aspx )

    LOW-FAT NATURAL YOGHURT: Yoghurt contains all nine essential amino acids, and is a good source of protein. Probiotics in yoghurt have a good influence on our immune system by promoting the activity of white blood cells. In the September 2012 edition of the, “European Journal of Cancer Prevention”, it was published that the volunteers who participated that consumed yoghurt regularly had up to a one-third less risk of developing upper digestive tract cancers. (SOURCE: http://healthyeating.sfgate.com/benefits-natural-yogurt-6915.html )

    Ingredients.
    1 cauliflower, outer leaves and root removed, washed
    400ml low-fat natural yoghurt
    1 tbsp olive oil
    1 lime, zested & juiced
    1 tbsp turmeric
    1 tbsp mild curry powder
    1 tsp cumin
    1 tsp pepper
    ½ tsp salt

    Method.
    Preheat your oven to 200c / 180c (fan) / Gas Mark 6

    1. Line a baking tray with a piece of foil, and rub the olive oil all over.
    2. Combine the yoghurt, all the spices, and lime zest/juice together.
    3. Brush or smear the cauliflower in the marinade and sit in the baking tray.
    4. Roast in the oven for 40-60 minutes depending on the size of your cauliflower. It should have turned golden and have a crispy outer crust. If time is an issue and your cauliflower isn’t quite as cooked as you’d like it, then place in the microwave for a couple of minutes to soften.

  • RECIPE | Pistachio & Pomegranate Chocolate Cake

    A flourless, intensely rich chocolate cake laced with pistachio and pomegranate jewels, perfect for showing someone a bit of home-baked lovin’ this Valentine’s.

    Ingredients.
    Prep – 20 mins
    Cook & Decorate – 1hr – 1hr 20mins

    225g butter
    365g plain chocolate
    250g caster sugar
    55g blitzed pistachio kernels (or bash in a bag if you don’t have a food processor)
    6 medium eggs
    30g cocoa powder
    1 tbsp milk (I used Koko)
    1 tbsp honey
    1 tsp vanilla extract

    Method.
    Decoration; pomegranate seeds (dry with kitchen towel before decorating) & more blitzed pistachio kernels. I also used pink candy pearls I found in the supermarket. You could also use desiccated coconut.

    Pre-heat your oven to 200c / 180c (fan) / Gas Mark 6

    1. Using a 9 inch circular spring-form tin, place on greaseproof paper and draw an outline of the cake tin. Cut the circle out.

    2. Spray the tin with a bit of cooking oil, place the greaseproof paper circle inside the tin and spray once more with cooking oil.

    3. In a small saucepan, melt on the lowest heat, only 250g worth of the chocolate with all of the butter.

    4. Once completely melted and combined, transfer to a large mixing bowl and beat in the sugar.

    5. Adding your eggs once at a time, continue to beat and combine.

    6. Tip in the cocoa powder and blitzed pistachios and stir a few times to combine.

    7. Pour the cake mix into the prepared spring-form tin and into the oven for 45-60 minutes (depends on your oven, mine took 1hr).

    8. Check your cake is cooked through via skewer test, ensuring it comes out clean and the top is firm to the touch.

    9. Remove and set cake aside in it’s tin to cool for 10 minutes.

    10. Place a plate on top of the cake tin and invert, flipping it upside down. Release the spring-form tin, and remove the greaseproof paper that’s now on the top side of the cake. Leave to cool further.

    11. Meanwhile you can begin the glossy glaze to top the cake with. Melt remaining 115g of chocolate with 3 tablespoons of butter. Stirring until smooth.

    12. Take off the heat and stir in the honey, vanilla extract and milk. Now set this aside to cool slightly.

    13. You want your cake to be completely cool before topping with your glaze. Pour it onto the centre of the cake and use a spatula to spread over the top and sides of the cake.

    14. Top with some more pistachio kernels (some blitzed, some whole if you like), and pomegranate seeds. Be as extravagant or as minimalistic as you feel with the decoration.

    15. Cover and leave in the fridge for the half an hour or until you’re ready, to allow the glaze to set and harden.

  • A Day Spent At The Golf Club

    A Day Spent At The Golf Club

    TheGayUK were fortunate enough to have been invited to the launch of the Mk7 Golf. It wasn’t exactly a new launch but more an update of an existing model. Ever since the Beetle, VW have had a tendency to bring in updates as and when to make a product better. Let’s put it this way, there were more than enough updates to cause a relaunch.

    © Stuart M Bird

    Changes visually were down to lights and bumpers. It’s the technology that lives under the skin that was the main focus. Good news for the Golf driver was prices were down around £650 on average per car.

    We met with Mike Orford, VW’s head of press and public relations. He gave us an over view of what Volkswagen were doing at the time. VW are going full steam to gain buyer confidence in the face of Dieselgate. So far 560,000 cars have gone through the recall, that’s just about 50%. To be honest, with the continuing sales of VW products, you would think Dieselgate was accent history. The reason being for continued European sales is that Volkswagen do make a good product.

    © Stuart M Bird

    Mike talked about new cars coming our way. Some made specifically for overseas markets. A shame really because a couple looked fine and dandy. What l did find puzzling was Volkswagens focus on being less German. If l got that right then l am perplexed. I own 2 Volkswagens myself because of the Germanic quality. This also runs true for Audi.

    Being the biggest car company in the world you can guess one thing. The Golf is the biggest seller. It’s the car every manufacture has tried to emulate. Some have bettered it in places but none have ever made a car as good overall. One of the key facts is its build quality and longevity. This was born true with my old Mk2 still in its prime parked in and amongst the shiny new examples.

    Did you know that there are now 113 different variants of Golf to be had? Basically that means there is now a Golf to suit everybody with prices starting from £17,625 for the 3 door 1 litre TSI to £33,935 for the 5 door, 7 speed R. These are prices without extras. It’s the extras that soon add up as the following reviews to be posted will show. For example the R model l tested was £455 cheaper than the GTE hybrid at £38,175. That GTE really is a car. I was more excited about that one than any other on the day.

    © Stuart M Bird

    In total l managed to test 4 models. The 2 already mentioned plus the Alltrack estate and a 1 litre SE Nav. It gave me a good example of what Golf now offered. Put it this way, when my Golf was new there were about 12 models available. The market has changed.

    So while l take it all in, try and put it into words, here are some pictures of the event with reviews to follow…

    © Stuart M Bird

     

    © Stuart M Bird

  • RECIPE | Italian Chicken Liver Pate

    Pate is renowned for being ridiculously fatty, but I try and keep that to an absolute minimum by using only 1 tbsp of butter. In fact, I used a dairy-free alternative the other day when making this and it was perfectly fine. Although the cholesterol content of chicken livers is high it does provide us with a good intake of vitamin A, B-12 and folic acid.

    CREDIT: Jordan Lohan

    The Italian spin on this French classic comes from anchovy, capers, sage and parmesan- and it really is tasty! Don’t be put off by the anchovies- I’m not a lover of them on there own but in dishes like this it really takes the flavour up a notch!

    Ingredients.
    250g chicken livers, defrosted if frozen
    1 tbsp unsalted butter
    1 shallot, finely sliced
    1 clove garlic
    2 anchovy fillets
    ½ tbsp capers, chopped finely
    3 sage leaves
    80ml white wine
    small grating of lemon zest
    30g parmesan, grated

    Method.
    1. Prepare your livers by getting rid of any fat, or greenish parts.

    1. Melt the butter and a glug of olive oil in a large frying pan, and begin to cook the shallot, garlic, sage, capers, and anchovy fillets until they are golden.

    2. Add in the chicken livers and continue to fry until well browned.

    3. Add in half of the white wine, whilst stirring the pan until the wine has been almost absorbed.

    4. Add in the final half of wine and repeat stirring.

    5. Take the pan off the heat and transfer to a small food processor. I like mine completely smooth, so blitz until my desired consistency is reached.

    6. Finally add in a small grating of lemon zest, along with the parmesan. Give a final pulse and stir with a spoon to ensure zest and parmesan are incorporated within the pate.

    7. You can now serve warm spread on crositini, or alternatively spoon into ramekins and cover in the fridge until you’re ready.

  • RECIPE | Homemade Honeycomb

    My first taste of home-made honeycomb came from my step-mum and it was so good and even better when she told me how simple it was to make yourself from scratch. The only bit of equipment you need is a sugar thermometer, I got mine off eBay for about three quid! Equipment and ingredients cost nothing with this golden bubbly crunchy dessert.

    CREDIT: Jordan Lohan

    Dip some in melted dark chocolate for variety, and pair with a freshly prepared fruit salad.

    Ingredients.
    250g caster sugar
    170g maple syrup
    1 tablespoon baking soda
    freshly ground sea salt (optional)

    Method.
    1. Grease and line a small shallow baking tray and line with greaseproof paper.
    2. In a large non-stick saucepan, mix together the sugar, maple syrup and 60ml of water.
    3. Over a medium heat stir, until the sugar has dissolved and then leave the pan be so it can reach a boil (this is when you want your sugar thermometer to check once it has reached nearly 300 degrees), this could take up to 7 minutes.
    4. Take the pan off the heat, and quickly add in the baking soda whisking enough to combine the two then pour the mix immediately into the prepared baking tin.
    5. No need to smooth over the top, you will destroy the air bubbles!
    6. If using sea salt, sprinkle so now on top.
    7. Leave the baking tin somewhere cool to set. When ready break into pieces and serve. Keep leftovers in an air-tight container.

  • RESTAURANT REVIEW | Riverfront Bar & Kitchen, London

    ★★★★ | Riverfront Bar & Kitchen, London

    Where’s the perfect place to eat breakfast and watch London wake up? It’s the Riverfront Bar and Kitchen tucked away under Waterloo Bridge at the National Film Theatre on the Southbank.

    Whether all you want is a freshly-brewed cup of coffee or a full on breakfast bachannalia, the Riverfront Bar and Kitchen is the place to go. With floor to ceiling windows that face the booksellers under Waterloo Bridge, and with gorgeous views facing north to Covent Garden and the City, you can enjoy hours of people watching while at the same time soaking up the very trendy and casual atmosphere.

    Opening up at the early hour of 9:00 a.m. every day, and 10:00 a.m. on bank holidays, The Riverfront Bar and Kitchen is the perfect place to start your day. I’ve been there for breakfast a couple times – the first time was a bit of a fiasco as everything that could go wrong did – so me and a friend decided to give it another try, and we were very glad we did.

    Greeted by the lovely Jackie – we didn’t waste any time ordering as we knew exactly what we wanted. My breakfast companion ordered a breakfast cocktail – the English Breakfast Martini – tea infused with Sipsmith Gin, Cointreau, lemon juice and tangy orange marmalade – and he really enjoyed it. And at £8.00 he said it was worth the money! As I do not tipple before 5pm, I had a glass of the refreshing tomato juice. But it was actually the food that counted the most.

    I ordered the American (and not because I am American but because it had exactly everything I wanted in a breakfast – pancakes, eggs, bacon, potatoes, sausage and the all important syrup) – and it was enormous! It was, as expected, delicious, but a bit uneven. All the slabs of bacon, but one, were cooked well done as I had requested, and the pancakes were different colors (one was a perfect brown while the other was on the light side – huh? exactly!) Sure I know these are minor quibbles but I like it when my pancakes are cooked evenly. A bargain at only £9.50 considering how much food was on the plate! My friend had Homemade Buttermilk Pancakes – a steal at £6.50 – and they were also enormous. Three very large, all the same color, with grilled banana on top, mixed berries and cream along the edges – and lots of maple syrup. He wasted no time in downing it – I really don’t think he chewed – he said it was that good! I am defninetly getting this next time. They were true American style pancakes – soft and brown and absolutely yummy. We also ordered – to share – the Chorizo Mash (£7.50). Smashed & fried potatoes, eggs, spinach & parmesan cheese, with of course chorizo, it arrived in a grill, very hot, and my friend ate most of it! I did enjoy the small portion I had – the chorizo was perfect and it’s just something different to eat then your everyday breakfast. But there’s more the Riverfront’s breakfast brunch menu, they also offer the Full English (£9.50), Vegetarian (£8.50), Eggs Benedict (£7.50), Scrambled Eggs and toast (£7.50) and Smashed Avocado with egg and tomato on toast (£6.50) are some of the other options which is a very good selection. They will also serve the typical Bloody Mary and Bucks Fizz drinks (£7.50 each) and even offer a kids breakfast (at a bargain £4.00).

    If you can’t make it for breakfast/brunch, the lunch and dinner menu is full on whatever you want you’ll get. There are also daily specials which the friendly staff will tell you about. And in warmer weather, the restaurant has loads of outside tables for you to dine (or drink) the day (and night) away people watching (as well as barge and boat watching). The venue can’t be better situated – it’s just minutes away from Waterloo, and a nice stroll over the Thames on both the Waterloo and Charing Cross Bridges. And of course the restaurant is in the National Film Theatre – and there’s always something going on – either a film festival, older films or new releases, you can combine a meal with a movie along with a stroll on the South Bank to make a day of it. It’s, for me, the best place to be in London, and once you visit – you’ll feel the same way too.

    Tel: 020 7928 0808

    www.benugo.com/restaurants/riverfront-bar-kitchen

    Email: riverfront@benugo.com
    Address: BFI Southbank,
    London, SE18XT

    OPENING HOURS
    Mon-Wed: 9am–11pm
    Thur-Sat: 9am-1am Sun: 9am–10:30pm
    Bank Holidays: 10am–10:30pm

  • CAR REVIEW | Golf GTE

    ★★★★★ | VW Golf GTE Advance 1.4 TSI 150 PS 6 speed DSG 5 door

    There’s A Kind Of Hush All Over Wolfsberg Tonight…

    Volkswagen has teased us with alternative fuelling since the 70s. Back them they fitted 860kg of batteries to a VW T2 panel van. They also played with a hybrid system consisting of 11 batteries in and around the cabin in a T2 taxi. Thankfully battery technology has evolved and we can now get far more from so little.

    In the early 90s alternative fuel and efficiency became less of the buzz work since the fuel crisis of the 70s and more emphasis was placed on environmental issues. Reluctant as we were to give up our four wheels, people wanted greener cars. The diesel car was sold as the greener alternative to petrol, this was when petrol engines were equipped catalytic converters and diesels still filled the air with heavy clouds of sotted pollutant.

    The Golf went through a phase of being battery powered. There was the CityStromer. It gave about 30 miles to a charge making it as good as a milk float. Remember the 30 miles though. It’s a magic number. However, in 1990 there was work on a diesel hybrid Mk2 Golf. VW was on to something. I remember it well. A white Mk2 with big bumpers and garish yellow, orange and red stripes. And then it all went quiet.

    Fast forward 27 years and the electric buzz is back at Volkswagen. There is a new hybrid Golf and the technology isn’t just staying on the Golf. We’ll have it on a lot of other VW’s.


    THEGAYUK was invited to attend the launch of the updated Golf Mk7 and it was the GTE I was most interested in trying. Having recently become a convert of the hybrid, l wanted to see how Volkswagen had executed the package. More importantly, I wanted to know how they transferred the power to the wheels.

    I am glad to say it is impressive. They use their DSG gearbox. This is an electronically controlled dual-clutch multiple-shaft manual gearbox that either changes like a conventional automatic or you can use manual inputs should you wish. Having tried this gearbox on many VW’s over the years I can say it works well unless the car has been modified. Then it becomes quite snatchy.

    There were no such issues. This thing was magic. What it does do is overshadow Toyota’s efforts and puts them in the dark ages where hybrid technology has evolved to. The main reason is the choice of drivetrain. In other words, this isn’t a CVT gearbox.

    I don’t know if it was the engineers having a laugh or not but the sound button on the centre console did make me chuckle. Press the sound button and it would emit an audible noise. Apparently, pedestrians are being hit or surprised by hybrid cars. I think having the choice of sound would be quite fun. I’d like a low flying aircraft.

    Enough of my rambling thoughts and back to the GTE. Unlike “conventional” hybrids, the Golf can be selected to drive in any of its three drive modes. Full electric, hybrid or full petrol. The electric is a plug-in type that can be around 80% charged in about 30 minutes. The engine used is the 1395cc petrol unit making 150ps at 5000-6000rpm. The electric motor makes 102ps at 2500rpm.

     

    In full battery mode, you’ll get that magic 30 miles on a charge. Fear not of running out of power because the petrol engine will jump in and help regenerate power. Likewise, should you floor it and need acceleration, again the petrol engine will jump into life. Unlike a CVT gearbox, the DSG will surge away in utter refinement. All this dashing around can achieve a 0-62mph time of 7.6 seconds. Put into perspective, the 2 litre 310ps Golf R will do the same in 5.1 seconds. This is no hybrid to sniff at. As a matter of fact when all systems are powered up it is pushing out 258Ibs ft of torque. That’s 22 less than the Golf R.

    On the move it was phenomenal. It was quiet. Admittedly the gravel tracks around the Woburn estate could be clearly heard. Once on the main road, it was amazzzzzing. I used some of the test in full battery mode to see what it would do. It behaved like a petrol car except there was a silent surge forward from the instant power the electronic motor gave out. I couldn’t stop smiling.

    In engine and battery power kicked in silently and effortlessly in hybrid mode. It was totally fuss-free. Competent, powerful, had the ability to assist in power delivery for overtaking and all safe in the knowledge that both power systems worked together for maximum efficiency,

    In petrol only mode you were given a Golf that would do what Golfs have done for the past 43 years and that is carry you in a well-made car. Longevity was a key feature mentioned at the launch. A 12 year body protection warranty is proof alone that the Golf will be sticking around.

    Warranty is however always a worry for batteries. VW offer an 8 year/99,360 mile one on them. Why it is 640 mile short of 100,000 miles I do not know.

    There is a down side. It’s the price. Basic price is £31,480. That Golf R and all its crazy power has a starting price of £31,510. Despite the GTE being quick and able to achieve amazing things, it doesn’t do it in the way of the almost same priced R. That said it also doesn’t give you the same head rush as the R and maybe now and again I prefer my car a little less hooligan.

    That in mind a quick look at the recently tested Toyota C-HR was £28,000. In my mind it seems to now be making the Golf R seem like the bargain buy that it shouldn’t be. It’s a quandary that I am in. I liked both Golfs. One that I can justify is the 1 litre TSi. Perhaps l should just have that and add a few stickers to the outside.

    Likes

    Choose the power supply manually
    Transmission of power to the wheels via the DSG gearbox
    Ride quality

    Dislikes

    The price
    Only available in a GT sporty package (at present)
    Questionable combined fuel figures

    The Lowdown
    Car – VW Golf GTE Advance 1.4 TSI 150 PS 6 speed DSG 5 door
    Price – £32,135 (as tested)
    MPG – 156.9 mpg (combined)
    Power – 258bhp
    0-62mph – 7.6 seconds
    Top Speed – 138 mph
    Co2 – 38 (g/km)

  • RECIPE | Coffee Jelly with Cream

    RECIPE | Coffee Jelly with Cream

    CREDIT: Pixabay

    Serves 8
    Prep 5 mins (3 hours minimum chilling)
    No Cook

    Coffee lovers and addicts will adore this meeting of dessert and post-dinner coffee. In an unusual twist on a kids party pudding normally served with ice cream comes a surprisingly good and sophisticated version that is perfectly paired with cream. This dessert is not overly sweet and has a distinctively clear taste of coffee. The recipe is easily halved if you would like to make less. Serve in tumblers for pretty presentation.

    COFFEE – 1 cup of coffee provides the following of your daily recommended intake; 11% B2, 6% B5, 3% of manganese and potassium, 2% of magnesium & B3. Although these are small amounts, most coffee drinkers are likely to have more than 1 cup a day.

    Coffee is also a great source of anti-oxidants. Other health concerns coffee is believed to help with are; protection from Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, lowering risk of Parkinson’s, protecting the liver, reduce the risk of depression, lowering risk of stroke, and certain cancers.
    SOURCE: ( http://authoritynutrition.com/top-13-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-coffee/ )

    Ingredients.

    8 tsp high-quality instant coffee
    2 sachets gelatine (12g each) – or use 8 gelatine leaves
    30g caster sugar
    1000ml cold water
    230ml hot water

    Double cream, to serve.

    Method.

    1. Pour the 230ml hot water into a bowl and sprinkle the gelatine onto the hot water. (it is important that gelatine is added to the water and not the other way around).

    2. Stir quickly until mixed thoroughly.

    3. In a large bowl combine the instant coffee with some of the cold water from the 1000ml you have measured out. Whisk until the coffee has dissolved entirely.

    4. Pour in the remaining cold water whilst stirring.

    5. Add the water with the gelatine mix in it to the coffee and stir thoroughly.

    *You could at this point add a shot of whisky for another flavour, if you like.

    6. Pour into a mould, casserole dish or whatever will accommodate the jelly mix in your fridge. You want to be able to transfer the jelly once set into tumblers so when you pour cream over the top there are various nooks and crannies for the cream to flow down and look pretty on.

    7. Chill for at least 3 hours in the fridge.

    8. Serve in tumblers with cream poured over the top.

  • CAR REVIEW | Vauxhall Cascada

    Vauxhall Cascada… Tonight we can be Glorious

    It’s been a long time coming. Not since the Mk2 Astra GTE of 1986 have I really paid any attention to Vauxhall. I liked the Astra GTE so much that I even drew a picture of one, sent it to Scalextrix and asked them if they would consider putting it in their next lineup. I got a letter and special badge for my efforts.

    Since then, many Vauxhalls have come and gone so it was about time I reacquainted myself with the Griffin and what better than to try the Cascada. You may be wondering what the hell this is? If truth be told so was I when l saw it in the catalogue. It’s a convertible Astra J series. What that means is underneath it is the last generation of Astra but seriously don’t let that put you off. It’s actually quite good and I’ll tell you why.

    I was given the 2 litre 170ps diesel Elite model. For a diesel, it is remarkable for being rattle free. In fact, it made no noise at all which might account for me stalling it on too many occasions to count. Hood up or down, I would say it was as quiet as a Mercedes. I can’t. I tested a Mercedes GLE recently and the Cascada is quieter. Vauxhall has thrown everything they can making the Cascada feel better than it actually is in refinement. Even riding on massive 20-inch rims has done nothing to harm the refinement of the car. It’s quite remarkable.

    Going back to the engine, it is a pleasurable unit to pilot around. According to the spec sheet, it really is the only engine option to go for. The 1.6-litre petrol engines will only better it in top speed and 0-60. That said a 0-60 time of 9.6 seconds isn’t exactly bad. It’s no sports car so these figures are quite on par with the sector.

    It is only when you realise that behind all the glitz, shine, open air motoring and 20-inch rims that this isn’t a sports car you appreciate it even more. It’s a serious cruiser. I only had it for a weekend so on a calm night in March I tootled along some nice roads near me and headed to the coast.

    Through the countryside with the roof down, Sara Cox on the radio, I noticed that the long legs of the gearbox and the reliable torque of the engine made it either essential to change gears or leave it in 4th and enjoy the power surges when needed. Refinement again was very evident here.

    The handling of the Cascada was also better than I thought it would be. Roof down it showed no body flex in fast cornering as is quite acceptable in a car with no roof. Strangely on first acquaintance, it felt like there was more flex with the roof up than down. It covered ground quicker than you’d think.

    I can’t say there were no problems. There were, but these were more annoyances to me. First up was the parking sensors. I’ve never come across a car so paranoid about parking. I was all of 70 cm away from the car in front that the siren alarmed. And it kept alarming. Even when stopped and the handbrake on it still alarmed. Get out, come back and no sooner was the ignition switched on that the alarm about the car in front was screaming. It is utter nonsense for a system to be this hyperactive. Thankfully there is a switch to shut the thing up. Alas, EVERY TIME you step back into the car, the system becomes operable again.

    It’s these private settings as I call them, that annoy me. If I set a system to not alarm I expect it to not alarm until I order it too. This was also evident for the auto lights that tended to be on all the time and the Eco stop-start system.

    What I did like was the roof’s operation. Let’s face it, you buy a soft-top for the open air experience. It was amazingly quick to erect, and could be done so at up to 30mph. You can also do it from the key remote. Step out of the house, lock the door and all while you activate the hoods disappearance. It was cool. In fact, the Cascada got the thumbs up from the yoof of the street. I was even complimented by a teenager and it does attract a lot of attention.

    I don’t mean this in a detrimental way but what makes the Cascada acceptable is that despite its million dollar looks, it’s a Vauxhall. It’s cheap enough not to attract the wrong attention so you can park it up with the roof down. It’s an affordable luxury.

    Roof down and even without the wind deflector it is quite draft free and this remains so up to high speeds. It is strangely a little too noisy for my liking with the roof up.

    The Cascada did have a magic trick up its sleeve. Roofs take up a lot of room. The boots are often useless or no more than a letter box. Push up the box in the boot and it reveals a big boot that also stretches into the cabin with the folding rear seat. It makes it quite a useable car.

    Now here is my real problem with the car. It’s the name. It might mean waterfall in Spanish but it is also the name of the 2013 Eurovision German entrant. Nothing wrong with that. Her song was “Glorious” however, the name of the car isn’t. If I had one, I and I have to say l would, I’d just have to remove the badge from the rear and replace it with Astra.

    Love

    Refined

    Design

    Price

    Loathe

    Paranoid parking sensors

    The name

    Noise with roof up

    The Lowdown

    Car – Vauxhall Cascada Elite 2.0 170ps Blueinjection

    Price – £32,810 (as tested)

    MPG – 57.6mpg (combined)

    Power – 0-62mph – 9.6 seconds

    Top Speed – 135 mph

    Co2 – 129 (g/km)

  • RESTAURANT REVIEW | Smith & Wollensky, London

    RESTAURANT REVIEW | Smith & Wollensky, London

    ★★★★ | Smith & Wollensky, London

    Smith & Wollensky is a New York institution and has found it’s way to London, and it’s thriving. It offers all sorts of steaks, and it comes with a price. Expect to pay no less than at least £75 per person – this is a place where definitely how the other half lives. Their steaks are perhaps the finest in the UK, in a restaurant that’s elegant and that defines the word fine dining. The minute you walk into the restaurant, which is just a few minutes walk from Charing Cross Station and right off the Strand, you will encounter a lovely classy restaurant with incredible art deco decor – it’s got a New York feel, with white tablecloths, very classy pictures, and spotless throughout, with a bar that’s very inviting. It’s a place to definitely impress, either your boss, your girlfriend, or perhaps your mom.

    Smith & Wollensky may be a once in a lifetime dining experience for some (or most) but it’s perfect for businessmen (company credit card) and those wishing to splurge on a nice meal. The cheapest steak on the menu is an affordable £39 (the Premium Irish Fillet Mignon) – but it’s a tiny 225g. The 400g Rib-Eye steak is a better option at only £42, but the better selections are, of course, the priciest. Another Premium choice – the Tomahawk (1kg and perfect to share) is £78, while the USDA Prime Day-Aged Steaks – and other selections – start low (Sirloin 395g) at £49 and go up to the 700g T-Bone at £78. On the night we went to the restaurant, it was a Monday night, and it was obviously a slow evening as there were only a handful of customers in a place that seats 340 people in both it’s upstairs and the cavernous space downstairs. Lucky for me they had my favorite steak – the chateaubriand, and it was cooked to perfection. It was recommended by the very friendly and very knowledgeable Sabina who said it was big enough for two, but I ate the whole thing, with the excellent Béarnaise sauce giving it a nice flavor. My dining companion had the Kansas City Cut Bone-In Sirloin (595g at £64) and it was delectable, delicious and extremely tasty, and again cooked to perfection. Both of us had never actually tried this type of meat before – now we are both huge huge fans. Smith & Wollensky steaks are charbroiled in one of their four grills, and they employ a full-time butcher where most of it goes through a careful dry ageing process for 28 days to ensure you get the tastiest, freshest meat in town.

    Smith & Wollensky offers up a handful of starters, but knowing that we were going to have a meat feast, we went for salads. I had the wonderful Iceberg Wedge, which is exactly what it says on the tin, and it was draped with lovely blue cheese dressing, tomatoes, and extremely delectable bacon lardons (strips). At only £12, it was worth every bite. My dining companion had the Wollensky Salad (£10). It came with romaine lettuce, tomatoes, potato croutons, bacon lardons (yummy again) mushrooms and topped with delicious dijon Vinaigrette. The salad was not sexy, but it was functional.

    The main courses don’t come with sides, so of course you would definitely want to order starch and vegetables to accompany your meat dish. You’ve got your choice of French or Cajun Fries or Whipped Potatoes. I had the Baked Potato – perfectly cooked, with butter, bacon bits, cheese, and sour cream, all on a bridge dish! But I would highly recommend the Hashed Brown Potatoes. If you’ve ever been to America you know that the hash browns there are shredded potato cooked on the grill, and the portion at Smith & Wollensky was gynormous and excellent. A must! Also on offer is Truffled Mac ’n’ Cheese and Onion Rings. In the vegetable department, order the Mixed `Vegetables – you name the vegetable – it’s in this dish. All the sides are smartly priced between £5 – £10 pounds each.

    Smith & Wollensky has a too big to mention wine list, but the waiters will recommend the best type of wine to accompany your meal. They also have an excellent drinks and cocktail menu. We had the Old Cuban (Havana Club 3, Lime Juice, Mint Leaves, Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut NV Champagne, Sugar Syrup) and the Stage Three Dacquiri (Havana Club 7, Koko Kanu, Lime Juice, Nutmeg & Vanilla Syrup, Chocolate Bitters). They were both very good but it was the Old Cuban that was more refreshing, lighter, and a bit more flavorable.

    The dessert menu really has to be mentioned. There is what they call the ‘Gigantic Chocolate Cake’ – and it is gigantic. It’s actually enough for four people. Moist chocolate layer cake brushed with Baileys Irish Cream, chocolate mousse and covered with dark chocolate ganache at only £18 – it’s practically the best deal on the menu and it’s the richest, guiltiest and best pleasure in town!

    There’s really a whole lot to mention about Smith & Wollensky besides the food. As mentioned, the decor is abasolutely divine, the downstairs area has the feel of being in another country (Paris, or perhaps the dining room of the Titanic), and there are three private dining areas for group or company bookings. Smith & Wollensky sits in the Adelphi building on the very quiet street that is John Adams Street, so there are no loud trucks, or lost tourists or selfie takers walking by. It’s secluded enough to be out of earshot of loud traffic, yet it’s just one minute away from major transportation – ideally centrally located. Adelphi translates to brother in Greek, and it was three Adams brothers (John, Robert, James and William) who orignally built the surrounding area in 1768. And close to 250 years, it’s still an elegant area where Smith & Wollensky comfortably resides.

    Smith & Wollensky is also running a promotion on their Tomahawk steak. Guests can tuck into the monstrous Tomahawk Steak – a juicy challenge for even the most committed of carnivores – served with French fries, creamed spinach, mushrooms and a bottle of Viñas del Vero, Cabernet/Merlot – perfect for two to share – at just £95! Also, keep your eye on Travelzoo and Living Social as Smith & Wollensky does put on offers that are excellent deals. A recent one included the Chateaubriand with cocktails each for two with four sides at a very cheap price of £45. But don’t let the high prices put you off – Smith & Wollensky can be an affordable place to eat, whether for dinner, lunch or even weekend brunch (which includes not just steaks but also french toast, pancakes, eggs and waffles). And Smith & Wollensky will also be serving an amazing three course Easter Sunday Menu for only £59.00 per person. Elegant food at elegant prices – well worth every penny!

    Tel: 020 7321 6007

    Home

    Email: enquiries@smithandwollensky.co.uk
    Twitter: @SandWollenskyUK
    Address:
    The Adelphi Building
    Covent Garden Riverside
    1-11 John Adam St
    London
    WC2N 6HT

    Opening hours:
    Monday-Thursday: 12pm – 10.30pm (last orders)
    Friday: 12pm-11pm (last orders)
    Saturday: Brunch: 11am-3.30pm (last orders); Dinner 5pm-11pm (last orders)
    Sunday: 12pm-4:30pm (last orders)

  • REVIEW | The Luggage Room at the Grosvenor Square Hotel

    Pre-WW2 Grosvenor Square (GS) was considered one of the four most uber-cool hangouts in the Old Smoke – receiving its name from the reigning Duke of Westminster (1700-32) Sir Richard Grosvenor, who kicked off the square’s construction around 1721.

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    In the 1920s GS was a playground for the ‘Bentley Massive’: Tim Birkin, Bernard Rubin, Woolf Barnato and Glen Kidston. The quartet hogged the south-eastern corner of said square, neighbouring each other in separate gaffs. Bon viveuring was high on the sports-car-lovers agenda – the Bentley boyz all-day soirees and shindigs became renowned – booze was guzzled like that of Mercer Series 5 Raceabout’s engine, with no finishing line in sight.

    We owe thanks to The Duchess of Bedford’s hearty appetite for the Low Tea Movement – tucking into a biscuit or two, served on a low table, to keep her ‘strength up’ before supper soon caught on.

    The Grosvenor Square Hotel, GS, is home to the decedent Luggage Room, a speakeasy-esque bar that feels like you’re imbibing aboard the Titanic but with the same interior and tailoring as the exterior of a Louis Vuitton trunk. We were very much at home.

    It was a roaring welcome to the roaring 20s style establishment – as soon as we parked our derrières we were offered: Punch a la Romaine: Champagne and Romaine sorbet, plantation 5yr fresh ginger extract. Fresh lemon juice, House made lemon sherbet, egg white built and served up, at £14. The zing and zest from the sherbet and lemon juice hits you first, beautifully softened by the egg white and champagne, all merged with a ginger undertone. An acceleration to fifth gear – scrumptious.

    Low Tea, means tea – so tea, is what we had. We shared a Lapsang Souchong: think log-fires, grandad’s pipe and that time you snogged a cigar smoker. A bit like ferret legging, not for everyone, but for those that do – a huge amount of pleasure. Now stocked in our office. As well as: China White Monkey: a light and delicate bouquet of freshly cut lemongrass infused with dainty floral flavours – pleasant.

    The alluring array of savoury and sweet delicacies was served in a prohibition era, American medical box – all adding to the 20s eroticism.

    Ours for the taking: Pickled New Forrest Mushrooms, Thyme, Crème Fraiche Tarts – a decent crunch to buttery pastry, the herb, creme and shrooms worked. H Foreman & Sons Smoked Eel, Horseradish, Crème Fraiche Vol Au Vent – as eels go, this slippery sucker had it goin’ on – lacking that metallic taste (that’s a good thing) the fishy flavour is complemented with a gentle punch from the horseradish – all fused by the crème.

    Devonshire Wild Boar Sausage Roll, Tiptree Grain Mustard – we have a #winner (emoji: smiley-face wavy-hands). Hummmm – yum scrum. Beats those of Maltby St Market. Quality sausage – who doesn’t like one of those? Lyburn Smoked Cheddar & Sage Scone, Spiced Pear Chutney. The cheese notes pulled through but a tad dry – the mild, but bursting with pear-power, chutney made up for it.

    Devilled Balmoral Venison, Free range Clarence Court Scotch Egg. On par with Mac & Wild’s – if you haven’t tried Mac & Wild’s wares yet; stop reading this and immediately book a table – you neanderthal. My deers, egg-cellent. “Luggage Room Signature” Tea-Cured Salmon by H Foreman & Sons, Caviar. Pure class on a white ceramic spoon – the fish eggs popped salty gorgeousness seconds after touching the tongue, lifting the salmon to another seafood taste level.

    To wash down the mini puds we were steered in the direction of Jack Rose (“You jump, I jump remember?”): Laid’s Applejack, House-made Grenadine, fresh lime juice, nutmeg shaken and served at £14. Cranberry in colour with ripe apple aromas – not even an iceberg could sink this beverage – an undercurrent of spice and hints of citrus kept all afloat.

    Next up: Luggage Room Limited Edition Plantation Rum Syllabub – neither a mousse, crème or parfait – room temperature, creamy and airy with a strong orange current, quite unique – superb. Tiptree Tawny Marmalade infused Carrot Cake – steam pudding moist but without the residue – laced with sweet-carroty-goodness – (emoji: thumbs up). Classic Victoria Sponge – the late Queen would’ve been chuffed: sponge, jam and cream – nothing went wrong. Neat.

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    As well as Tiptree Jarred Scone Trifle. This deconstruction malarkey – in France you can now buy steak tartare in a can, from a vending machine! Anyways, this spoon full of – a lot of sugar – did not help the medicine go down. Too sweet – not toot sweets, different film – an overload of sickly cream. And to finish us off: Salted Caramel Meringue. Think French macaroons – crisp, honeyed and sugary with a smidge of seasoning – oui oui oui.

    Bentleys, Vuitton cases and buoys are not required – you won’t wanna jump overboard. Appetites – not dissimilar to that of The Duchess of Bedford’s, a good palate and your manners (the service is exceptional), are.

    Low Tea £48

    The Luggage Room
    Grosvenor Square
    London
    W1K 6JP
    Book: http://luggageroom.co.uk/bookings/
    T: 0207 493 1232 E: info@luggageroom.co.uk

    Opening times: Low Tea. Wednesday – Saturday from 12.00, last sitting 15.00 – Low Tea. Sunday 12:00 – 17:00. The Bar. 17.00 till late