The Steak Barn and Ice Skating at Old Down Country Park

Last weekend I was kindly invited down to Old Down Country Park, in Tockington, Bristol, for a session on their ice rink. 

Now, if, like me, you have a fear of falling over, then I’m not sure ice skating is the best idea. I KNEW I hated the thought of slipping so I have no idea why I thought ice skating would be any kind of fun for me. But we have to try these things for ourselves so we know for the future. Silly Sam! 

Sure enough, it took me around 20 minutes to even consider setting foot on the rink, even though I was kitted out in skates and watching my 16 year old daughter, skating effortlessly around the ice albeit laughing at her petrified mother. 

With only 10 minutes left of the session, that’s right, I had spent the entire time contemplating doing it that I wasted an entire session! So after 5 minutes of manoeuvring and dithering, I was finally on the ice. Resembling a scene from Bambi, I was wobbly legged and gripping on to the sides as I aimlessly tried to ‘skate’ around the edge. It’s safe to say that ice skating is definitely not for me!

Picture purely to certify that I got on to the ice! 

The rink itself was large and well covered, perfect for this wet December. With the addition of a Christmas tree and festive fairy lights that gave it some added warmth. Having come during the evening, once the park itself had closed, I noticed there were traditional style wooden stalls that sold a range of hot snacks, similar to those you’d find at a Christmas market. 

After our session, we then headed over to the on-site Steak Barn for our dinner. 

Having not been given a time slot for our visit, we did arrive around 30 minutes before the kitchen had opened but nevertheless, we were welcomed with the offer of drinks at our table and the waiting staff couldn’t have been more attentive. 

This rustic Steak Barn, with stone walks and timber beams was wonderfully cosy in such a horrid wet and windy Saturday night. With more fairy lights, Christmas decorations and a big log burner, we felt warmed and at home. The Barn also had a family nook, with activities to keep children entertained and big comfortable sofas for the parents. Dogs on leads were also welcomed, much to the delight of my daughter who got to smooch with a furry guest on the next table. 

Ordering our food, we enjoyed a plate of complimentary toast whilst we waited. Thick slabs of hot, smoky bread with a generous knob of smoked salted butter. 

I’m so easily pleased. Bread and butter is a sure fire way to keeping me happy!

For my main course, I ordered the rib eye steak (£19) which came with chunky chips and a sauce of my choice. I went for the Stilton butter of course! 

The steak was perfectly cooked to my liking- medium rare, with a more than generous knob of the Stilton butter. So much so, that my daughter took some for meal. She opted for one of the few vegetarian options, the caramelised onion and Brie pie (£9.95) but was sadly disappointed. With only the slightest hint of either elements, her pie was more pepper, tomato and spinach and struggled with a strange aftertaste. There was a very limited choice for both vegan and vegetarian customers which let the meal down slightly.

Overall, our visit to Old Down Country Park was a positive one. The staff were fantastic and a real credit to this place. A huge thank you and mention to the lovely girl that looked after us at the rink. She was patient, warm and very friendly. 

The rink will be open throughout December at the hours listed below, and through to the 23rd of January, although I would suggest checking the website for the listed days and times of these. Prices for the skating are £7.50 for adults and £5.50 for children. You can buy tickets online or at the Barn Cafe during opening hours. https://olddownestate.co.uk/events/ice-rink-real-ice/

The Cauldron - Sunday Roast

Now, I’m no stranger when it comes to St Werburgs in Bristol. Within a short stones throw away from my house, this quaint and quirky little corner of Bristol really looks out and supports one another other. But when it comes to eating here, that’s where I’m a stranger. 

I had heard nothing but great things about this husband a wife run little restaurant through the food scene and knew I had to come to Mina Road to see for myself just what the fuss was about. 

Arriving on a wet Sunday lunchtime, I was ready to relax, get cosy and eat a cracking roast dinner. With summer we’ll and truly out the window, it was time to start getting my winter body ready (Let’s face it, this body is a 365 kinda thing but we’ll humour it!).  

Entering this little eatery, it was clear I had missed the memo and everyone and his neighbour was visiting. Having booked our table, we were one of the fortunate ones to get seated. With so many covers, people were being turned away. We sat at a little table for two but with big, homely style dining tables, you could have the option of dining communally which is always nice. I could chat to anyone about food all day long, given half the chance! 

The Cauldron prides itself on using no gas, just big open fires, using their cauldrons. No surprise there given the name. But what is surprising is just how well the food is cooked in this way. 

We quickly poured over the simple roast menu, ordering a Wiper and True beer- neighbours of course- and debated over sides. We opted for a slice of each meat, so we could sample each on offer and I’m glad I did. 

Firstly, I could smell this cooking before I got to eat it. The large open kitchen meant that you constantly had this waft of deliciousness gracing your nostrils, and with every passing of a server, you secretly hoped the plates they were holding were yours. 

The pink meat was soft and juicy with the sweet smokiness creeping through. The first meat, garlic and rosemary marinated lamb with stuffing, the second was crackling griskin pork which cut like butter but sadly no cracking to be seen on my particular plate and the last, the apple wood smoke roasted sirloin of Angus beef. With beef dripping roast potatoes, cumin roast carrots, roasted beetroot, onion and tomato, smoked butter peas and beans and of course a whopper of a Yorkshire Pudding that sat like crown atop a pile of smokey riches. We had to go for a bowl of cauliflower cheese to share because every roast needs it’s creamy sidekick!

The gravy was in a world of its own. Taking a whopping 4 days to make, its flavour derived from beef, lamb and chicken bones and some trotters which adds its glossy shine, cooked in Bertha, a 60l cauldron. 



Wanting to sample just about everything that was on the menu we went for desserts. We wasn’t wrong!

              Wood fired peaches with spiced creme fraiche and a salted caramel sauce and crumble. The scorched skins had caramelised and added a smokey depth to the sweet, juicy peach flesh. The salt in the caramel sauce was a stunning savoury element which cut through the sweetness and lifted the dish. My absolute favourite kind of pudding. 

 Trio of truffles. Fruit and nut, smoked sea salt and milk chocolate. These were incredibly moorish and my poor husband had to shield his share away from this greedy woman. 

I’m very keen to return to The Cauldron to try their main menu. Not solely for the purpose of the food but for their ethos. Supporting local businesses is something that The Cauldron strive upon and is also something very close to my own values. Not only keeping their fuel sources as natural and bare as possible, it goes the same for their produce. With ingredients sourced extremely closely, they also ensure they stock local drinks too. You couldn’t get more supportive and eco friendly than that. 

Review; Salt and Malt, Chew Valley Lake

Lat week I had the most wonderful meal at Salt and Malt at their Chew Valley lake residence.

Now, even after living in Bristol for over 8 years and getting married just down the road from Chew Magna, I had still never had the pleasure of visiting this beautiful place. 

A vast stretch of reservoir nestled in the foot of both the Dundry and nearby Mendip hills, this little restaurant had the most amazing scenic views. 

We arrived a little earlier than planned so took a little walk around, taking in the sunset over the lake and feeding some ducks on the bank. The restaurant itself is right by the car park so it’s easy to find and there is a little playground outside, perfect for those with young children.

The restaurant itself was wonderfully spacious, light and well ventilated. With large pull open doors that can we opened in summer to give that lovely ‘outside, in’ feel. 

We were received with a warm welcome from the lovely Zowie who couldn’t of been more attentive. The staff were an absolute credit to this restaurant and made us feel incredibly special. Something I’ve found quite rare lately.

My husband and I were seated at our table, right by the glass doors so we could watch the sun setting which obviously was the best place to be sat. Enjoying a cold glass of house white, we salivated over the restaurants new tapas menu, wanting one of everything! 

The new ‘Tapas Tuesday’ menu featured plenty of seafood choices, as well as vegetarian options for the reasonable price of £3.50 per plate or 3 for £10. 

After agonising what we would go for, this is what we decided on;

This was my ultimate favourite. So much so that I ordered it twice! Curried brown butter shrimp on toast. This was heaven.

Seeing as we were at a fish and chip restaurant, I couldn’t help but order something deep fried. Halloumi with a side of chilli jam really hit the spot!

One of the nights show stoppers. Cured sea bass with orange. Incredibly light and flavoursome 

Crispy cod cheeks with a chorizo dip. The fish was beautifully firm and flaky, with a sweetness enhanced by the salty, smoky chorizo.

My husbands favourite. A punchy dish of squid with chilli and peanuts

An absolute beast of a crab claw, with a generous pot of garlic aioli for dunking. 

If that lot wasn’t enough, we shoved a pudding in too! Cinnamon Creme Brûlée with apple sorbet. Stuffed!!

It goes without surprise that Tapas Tuesday runs every Tuesday, with the full regular menu on offer too and you’ll also get 50% off your bottle of wine too. The restaurant has a no dog policy within the restaurant but are more than welcome, should you dine outside on the terrace. Salt and Malt is also fully accessible to disabled customers. 

Review; The Jetty at Bristol Harbour Hotel

Earlier this month I got invited to go and try the new A la Carte menu at The Jetty restaurant at Bristol Harbour Hotel on Corn Street.

If you are an avid reader of my blog, you may of seen that I visited The Jetty last year for Sunday lunch (post here) and loved it and twice to the hotels spa. Fast forward a year and I’m back to sample their new summer menu. 

As the name suggests, The Jetty mainly focus on fresh seafood dishes but obviously throw in non fish offerings too. But as a lover of fish, I was a happy girl.

Settling in to our high backed sofa booth, my daughter and I enjoyed an Aperol Spritz whilst we waited for our food. 

First course of the night was the monkfish cheeks with tomato kasundi. A generous portion of two cheeks, with beautifully crisp batter on the outside, which gave way to it’s brilliantly white and flaky interior and not forgetting the punchy, rich kasundi for dipping. This particular kasundi was much thinner and paler than I’ve tried elsewhere but still delivered a wonderful mustardy punch in flavour. 

Now usually I’d always gravitate towards the fish course for my main but once I saw grilled lamb rump on the menu, I couldn’t focus on anything else. 

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Melt in the mouth lamb accompanied with courgettes and basil and smoked almonds. The sauce was rich and full of flavour from the black garlic. Perfect for mopping up with my side of chunky chips. 

Feeling the effect from such rich dishes, I sat and debated about having a dessert but let’s face it, who am I kidding here? There’s always room for dessert! 

The Jetty ice cream sandwich was a beast. Two chocolate cookies encompassed a peanut butter ice cream which I could of eaten by the bucket load. Topped with a rich chocolate ganache, it finished me before I could finish it! Sadly, I couldn’t taste the coffee element that was promised in its description but it wasn’t needed. 

Even though we visited mid week, the restaurant was full to capacity with a private function which meant we had to wait 10 minutes to be seated and a further 40 minute wait between our first and second course. Although the waiting staff were highly attentive, I did feel this let our meal down slightly. 

The Jetty offer a wide variety of dishes including a specials board and early bird courses for a great price. For more info, do check out the site by clicking through the links x

** Disclaimer**

All elements of this visit was offered on a complimentary basis and all views are my own. The Jetty have not seen this review prior to publishing.

Wings Diner, Bristol

Last month I celebrated my birthday and what better way to celebrate than to go and eat some beautiful, yet dirty chicken!

Ladies, gents, those in between....I found chicken heaven...

Wings Diner, was and still are a pop up, now residing at Small Bar on Kings Street. Serving up delicious fried chicken with an Asian inspired twist. Not forgetting the veggies and vegans of course! But for me, it’s all about the chicken life. Think fried chickenburgers, wings and pieces, but not like those weak offerings from your local fast food takeaways. I’m talking thick, juicy pieces of bird that leave you so greasy and full that you’re calling for help. 

I went for the Thai style burger first. With a fat juicy chicken thigh on a bed of lettuce, topped with cheese and Srirachanaise (it’s a thing!) and I couldn’t of been more delighted that they used the softest, squishiest buns. I happen to be rather fussy when it comes to the right type of burger bun.

And because it was my birthday, I didn’t plan on mucking around. I came for food and lots of it! So next came the dirty fries. 

Twice the photo because this had double the flavour of anything I’ve ever eaten before. Crispy little fries, covered in fried chicken, cheese and Korean sauce. These were incredible. The Korean sauce was like an umami bomb, that salty, heavy taste that was suitable for eating as a solo dish but no, here I was scoffing them as a side to my already deep fried meal. I couldn’t even finish my food as not only did I have the burger and fries but I was desperate to try the blue rice and had that too. I was so not sorry, the garlic sang like a

Morning bird and of course being blue in colour just added to the spectacle. There was wings involved at some point but after a while I was seeing stars and close to removing my trousers. My husband opted for the 2 piece meal, which he promised me was some of the most juiciest of legs he’d come across and loved the crunch of the coating. 

Gasping for breath, we left full, happy and faces covered in food. We’ll certainly be back.

I seriously can’t recommend Wings enough. And if you do get the chance to go, order the spicy peanut sauce with everything. I could of bathed in the stuff!

The Cuban, Bristol

A couple of weeks ago I popped along to a blogger event, hosted by Socialight at The Cuban, just off Millenium Square. Socialight are an upcoming website and app that aim to connect Bristol restaurants to local bloggers to collaborate together. Such a useful platform to help build a good relationship with the food scene!

Ok let’s get back to the best bit- FOOD! And cocktails of course.

We started the night with a Mojito masterclass, one of my go to cocktails when I’m struggling with choice. Perched on our stools at one of two of the main bars in The Cuban, we watched in awe as the barman whipped up multiple cocktails in quick succession. Such a pro! 

Following on from the mojito, we got a taste for Havana and were served a few more rum cocktails such as the Tormenta Negra and the Hasta Mañana. Blimey, I was going to need feeding fast before I tipped off my stool!

Hurrying to our (huge!) awaiting table, we were promptly sat down and received a warm welcome and intro from manager Ellie. We were to choose a starter and main and any choice of drinks on the house. 

I noticed from the start that this menu was very meat heavy! Unless you’re happy with a simple salad, I’d say this place isn’t very vegan or veggie friendly. I’m not too clued up on my knowledge of Cuban cuisine so I’m unsure if this is just how they eat! It did however have gluten free options.

For my starter I went for the Boquerones. I absolutely love fish and the saltier the better so it was a no brainer for me. 

These silky little fishes were brined to perfection. With the added garlic to give it kick and parsley to lift the flavours. The seaweed buttered crouton was delicious and complemented the fish perfectly. Such a great little dish that was rich enough to satisfy without adding heaviness, leaving plenty of room to go heavy on the mains. Which I certainly did! 

Opting for the belly pork was a wise decision. Served in a smoke filled cloche to add a theatrical element (I’m not overly convinced it added anything to the flavour of the dish) I loved the tender slab of meat. It was filling and cooked to perfection, the top fat retained some crispiness, the layer fat was melt in the mouth without any clagginess and the side of chorizo added that salty, smokey element. I really enjoyed the addition of the silverskin onions and the little pot of sauce but felt the bed of cassava really let the dish down. Oversized wedges that I found hard to wash down and left an overly starchy aftertaste. Maybe if the cassava was served in some other way, fries perhaps, then it would of been better. 

After our meal, the server kindly brought over a selection of desserts for us to try such as white chocolate panna cotta. I’m not a massive fan of puddings but did try them all and favoured the poached pears. I was however, relieved to see that they hadn’t gone down the safe/boring route of adding brownies to their menu, which seem to be everywhere right now. 

Throughout our meal we enjoyed a live band, Noche and Cubanna. It was such a lovely touch and really gave the restaurant a great atmosphere. If I shut my eyes hard enough, I could almost pretend I was on holiday! Almost. The Cuban have live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night from 8pm

For more info on The Cuban, head over to thecubanbristol.co.uk where you can find what’s on or sign up to their newsletter to claim your voucher for a mojito for just £3

Sunday Lunch at The Florist, Bristol

This time last week I headed down to The The Florist, Park Streets newest face on the block. Occupying the former home of Goldbrick House, this restaurant is visually beautiful. Set over 3 floors, The florist not only offers fantastic cocktails and restaurant but also regular weekly DJ sets, cocktail masterclasses and floristry workshops. I’m returning to try these out myself so keep your eyes out for my next instalment.

With copper garden-like detailing such as mixer tap lamps and pipe work, flowers and greenery hanging from just about everywhere- Wisteria covered windows, laden floors and hanging flowers on the ceilings- this is a floral enthusiasts dream. Obviously silk flowers are not a patch on the real deal but let’s be honest, no one has the time or money for being that extra! 

I was fortunate enough to invited down to sample the cocktail menu and Sunday lunch. 

Upon entering, I was shown to the ‘create your own Bloody Mary’ station. Now, to say I was somewhat apprehensive is an understatement. My only encounter with this Marmite of tipples was a metallic tasting, watery thing that was passed off as a drink some years ago. The staff at The Florist needed to convince me pretty well to give these another chance at winning me over. And they succeeded pretty damn well! I opted for the spicy variety. With spiced tomato juice, plenty of vodka, added chilli and pepper and rosemary, this Bloody Mary was delicious! Verging on a spicy gazpacho, I was a new fan to this way of drinking. 

Once I had finished this cockle warmer and was joined by fellow friends, it was time to try the impressive cocktail menu. 17 pages to be exact! With an extensive list of gins, classics, modern takes and botanical focused cocktails, I was eager to try as many as I could. 

First was the Hibiscus Margarita (£7.95) with the black pepper highlighting the punchy notes of tequila and pink grapefruit 

Second cocktail was the Balloons of Jasmine (£7.25) Delicate in flavour that was not dissimilar of sweets, from the mix of brandy, peach juices and egg white foam

Heading up staircases adorned with flowers, the first floor was beautifully decorated with large flower murals on the walls. The large Victorian windows and high ceilings filled the room natural light. The Sunday lunch menu was impressive, with a good range to choose from and include both vegetarian and vegan and gluten free options. 

Being the ridiculous carnivore I am, I went for the Rotisserie roasted Ridings Reserve premium English beef (£13.95) with horseradish cream and the usual trimmings

The beef was cooked to perfection. With a deliciously delicate smoky flavour and melt in the mouth soft. The horseradish cream was possibly too subtle for my liking. The potatoes were fluffy in the middle and not overly crispy on the outside which is a shame as for me, that makes the best kind of roastie. Vegetables were tender and well seasoned and I think the generous Yorkshire pudding perched on top speaks for itself! 

For dessert, I went for the heaviest option there was- I have no idea why, I was already struggling after the food as it was- Lemon Polenta cake with Mulberry sorbet

The cake was heavy yet moist with the top almost soaked with zesty lemon juice. The lightness of the tangy mulberry sorbet gave it some lightness and the addition of the toasted coconut and black pepper gave it an extra bit of texture, which although was nice, it was not really needed. 

So what do you order when you’re fit to burst? That’s right, another cocktail. I’m not even sorry! 

The Geranium and Lychee Cooler was undoubtedly my favourite of all the cocktails I tried. I’m a massive lychee fan and this was summer gardens in a glass. It was unfussy, refreshing yet so effective. Perfect for ending a wonderful lunch. 

I’m not ashamed to say that I was bowled over by the interior design of The Florist and I’m all too aware that the appearance alone doesn’t equal success in the restaurant world. My lunch, although was offered in exchange for a review, was, in my opinion, great value for money. There was no long waiting times which given how busy they were, I was pleasantly surprised. Food was of great quality and I wouldn’t hesitate to return or recommend. 

Beehive Coffee House, Bristol

I’ve recently discovered The Beehive Coffee House in Downend, Bristol. Having seen a suggested post pop up on Facebook, I had been keeping an eye on this little shop for over a year before finally deciding to head over one cold morning. 

Now, I’m not a big fan of milkshake, or any milk based drinks really but I am a fan of a gimmick. No surprise there, really. I especially love over the top, faddy foods so I just HAD to go, even if I wasn’t going to order a milkshake- or freakshake in this case- myself.

Walking through the door, it was clear that this place was not only well known but loved! A 15 minute wait for a table was needed and to be honest, I didn’t really mind, nor did my family. There were sofas to lounge on, newspapers to read and colouring books to keep my 5 year old distracted. And we loved watching the fish in their little aquarium.

Scanning the menu, the names and description of each shake made deciding on just one and almost impossible task. With each freakshake containing wafers, sauce, donuts and crazy flavour combos, it was clear to see why The Beehive Coffee House was shorlisted for ‘Best Coffee Shop’ by the Bristol Good Food Awards.

We settled on the Freak of the Week. A maple syrup flavoured milkshake topped with a waffle, donut, candy bacon, pretzels and sauces in condiment bottles. My daughters eyes lit up once she saw this beast coming her way! 

Tilly baffled us with how much she managed to put away. She quite proudly patted her tummy after demolishing the freak of the week, leaving just a smattering of sweets, half a donut and a slurp of milkshake. Much to the disappointment of her dad, who was hoping he could finish up what she couldn’t! 

Of course there’s much more on offer other than milkshakes. With staple brunch options, light lunches, homemade cakes- inc gluten free and vegan options- and specialty coffees, they had something for every taste. And for the mega fussy, how about a unicorn hot chocolate?!

I opted for the delicious Croque Madame. Rich cheese and ham toasted sandwich topped with yet more cheese and a fried egg. The salad garnish was a welcome addition to lighten the dish. One of my favourite go to comfort foods on a cold day.

This is their latest vegan creation, complete with a vegan cupcake on the side. Amazing!! 

You can find directions, contact details and a gallery full of mouthwatering dishes over on their Facebook page here https://m.facebook.com/thebeehivebristol/

*Disclaimer*

This was not a review post. This was my own account of my visit and all opinions are my own.

Happy Bird Bristol

Last week I was kindly invited to attend the pre opening launch of Happy Bird, Clifton Down’s newest offering. This chicken restaurant prides itself on using only the finest and freshest of ingredients, whilst being incredibly healthy, it still feels a little naughty! The restaurant itself has that on trend urban/faux industrial feel but with the addition of clean stark walls and neon lighting. Very American diner circa ‘86

I started the evening with a much needed cocktail. Punchy, summer flavours from this rum punch was just what  I needed after a day at work. 

We took our seats to ready ourselves for the first round of dishes for tasting. Two beautiful crunchy salads, topped with grilled chicken and halloumi. These were definitely the more healthy option, full of kale, baby leaves and cherry tomatoes. And a portion of honey and chilli glazed chicken wings that were super sticky and tasty although in my personal preference, I do prefer my wings to be a little more cooked and crispy. 

Feeling a bit too healthy and ‘veggie’, I was craving a decent bit of chicken. Afterall, this is what I came for. Then I spotted the trays of food and I couldn’t be happier! 

With individual trays loaded with the best part of the entire menu, we chomped our way through chicken tenders, a portion of skin on dirty fries (light cheese sauce and fresh chillis), a small bowl of spicy rice, a super plump and crunchy drumstick, housemade dipping sauces and a buttermilk fried chicken thigh burger. Nice!! So let’s talk about this chicken. It’s clear from first bite that this isn’t your usual cheap, low quality chicken you’d find in your local fast food chains. The chickens used are free roaming, fed on corn and herbs and are grown for longer, resulting in the most superb meat, both moist and flavoursome. And Happy Bird have really mastered that herb/spice/crunch combo that we know and love. I’d say that the menu was a little out of my price range for what you get (around £10 for a chicken burger and fries) but if quality is what you’re after, then look no further. Burgers- both fried or grilled, could also be pimped up with added extras such as bacon, cheese or avocado etc...and with 10 homemade sauces to choose from, you can really create your own unique burger. Prices around £1-£1.50 for added extras.

We finished our meal with an off menu exclusive- the chicken salt-ed caramel milkshake. Yep, you read that right. Flavoured with ground, salted chicken skin, this was a milkshake like no other! Very rich and a little ‘meaty’ with vanilla notes. 

You can find Happy Bird on Whiteladies Road, right by the Clifton Down Shopping Center entrance, offering both dine in and take away options.