Railway Inn, Sandford

Based in Sandford, Somerset, you’ll find the cider house and kitchen, The Railway Inn. Based on the Thatchers cider estate of Myrtle Farm, you can guarantee that the dishes contain the beautiful fruits grown on that very land, free range meat and eggs, sustainable and organically farmed fish and seasonal ingredients supplied by local producers. Making this kitchen not only reducing its carbon footprint but ensuring good quality, tradition cooking at its best.

The food was so good that I’m going to let the photos do the taking.

Here’s what I ate;

Quail scotch eggs with beetroot ketchup

Thatchers Cider and honey glazed gammon and eggs with triple cooked chips and a pineapple salsa

Thatchers Cider Mac and cheese 

Sticky toffee apple pudding with a cider toffee sauce,  honeycomb and Bramley apple ice cream 

You can find the Railway Inn here,

The Railway Inn
Sandford,
Somerset
BS25 5RA

Booking is advised for Sunday’s when it can get very busy. 

Felsons Cocktail Lounge and Stick Hall- Review

If I was to tell you there was a dedicated snooker and pool hall on Corn Street, would you know what I was talking about? No, neither did I!

Nestled above Walkabout on Corn St, you’ll find Felsons. A stick hall and cocktail bar. Spread out over 2 floors and 5 rooms- 2 of which can be hired privately, Felsons have a range of quality tables, dining areas, leather sofa’d booths, a well stocked cocktail bar and a great kitchen serving up all the best drinking matched food you could need. 

I arrived with my husband on a quiet Wednesday night but surprisingly Felsons was in full swing. With a few empty tables just waiting to be played on, I was surprised how laidback and un macho this place felt. No judging looks at this complete novice, this place was for just about anyone of any ability. 

The main floor was laid out with good quality but standard tables in a slightly industrial decor with art and graffiti adorning the walls. 

Next to the bar and lounge however was the premium tables and were of much higher class. 

Eddies Room, named after Eddie Felson himself, is one of two private lounges available. With a premium table, leather sofas, a 43’’ TV and bar/food tab for you and your party of up to 15.

And again, the Hustler Lounge providing a private space, ideal for parties. Giving you seclusion from the rest of the hall and has the bonus of having your own hostess. 

Whilst we were here, we got to sample a few of the amazing cocktails on offer. We chose a quiet spot, not too far from the bar, in a leather seated lounge area. I love that it had the atmosphere of a cocktail lounge without feeling overwhelmed by an over masculine or ‘sports’vibe. I could totally see this as the ‘wags’ area, great for chats over drinks whilst the men do the pool stuff. 

 Opting for something new, I couldn’t quite grasp my choice! 

The Corona-Rita! A classic Margarita with a whole bottle of Corona running through it! 

Having whetted our appetite with drinks, we then sampled some of the dishes on offer. 

With classics such as Loaded nachos, Crispy Chicken wings, Parmi chicken skewers, Sweetcorn Fritters with maple bacon, Beer battered onion rings, an array of wraps like the  Halloumi and avocado pictured here, loaded fries, an array of burgers, it’s clear that this deep fried lovers menu is perfect for pairing with your favourite tipple. It was great to see a good variation for vegetarians too. 

You can also find a range of great midweek deals and offers like this one we spotted. 

Be sure to check out the Felsons site before you visit to see any up to date offers. 

*DISCLAIMER*

I was invited to sample the menu and tour Felsons as a guest and all opinions are my own. 

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. 

Spring Menu Tasting at The Stable Bristol

Never one to turn down the offer of free food, I got the chance to try out the Spring menu  at The Stable on Bristols harbourside. Specialising in pizzas, pies and ciders, I'm surprised I hadn't actually visited this place sooner!

 

For starters we tucked in to an amazing sharing board, full of Devonshire cured meats and West Country cheeses. The pickled cucumber was especially beautiful! 

Then it was next on to salads and pizzas. My favourites being The Big Jerk; Spicy jerk chicken with full punchy flavours and Billy the Kid; with goats cheese, spinach and roasted hazelnuts. All pizzas were wonderfully thin and crispy and generous in size. The salads were packed full of flavour, the butternut squash and feta cheese was a firm favourite in our table.

 

Next came cider tasting. With over 80 varieties on offer, I was surprised at how much knowledge the in house cider masters knew! We got to sample a selection of various types and although I'm no cider expert, I learnt a few things and found new favourites. 

 

As the evening ended, it was only right that it ended sweetly. The dessert pizza! All hail this simple yet heavenly slice of delight that has now got me ridiculously hooked. The thought of it made me shake my head. With the idea that pizza should only ever be savoury. WRONG! I'm now totally converted. Rich hazelnut chocolate sauce, mascarpone and toasted hazelnuts on a wood fired dough base is the way to win my heart. 

 

Have you tried The Stable yet? Check here to see your nearest location.

**Disclaimer; Although the meal was complimentary, all opinions are my own**

Spring Menu at Square Kitchen Clifton

Last month I spent the evening at The Berkeley Square Hotel, Clifton with some local bloggers.

Once we had all arrived, we got to order a cocktail from their extensive menu whilst we had a little look around the cosy, members only Square Club. I loved the decor which mixed a slight Morrocan feel with that classic urban look. (Think stripped wooden floors and glass bricks with an intimate nook full of rich colours and plush fabrics) I opted for a refreshing Champagne gin mojito. 

We were taken back upstairs to be seated for dinner in The Square Kitchen. The restaurant itself was light and spacious with plenty of diners even midweek but yet felt quiet and intimate enough if you were to dine as a couple. 

Here's what I ordered;

Ham hock terrine appetiser

 

Starters; Wild garlic soup with slow cooked egg, prosciutto dust

 

Mains; Slow roast pork belly with crispy squid, globe artichoke, white polenta, capers & gremolata

 

Dessert; chocolate bomb filled with banana mousse and peanut butter parfait

Starters range from £6.50-£9 and mains £12-£18.50 which I thought was very reasonable for a boutique hotel in Clifton.

The whole hotel is steeped in modern art and unique furniture. After 8 years of living in Bristol, I'm shocked I didn't know of its existence and I've already recommended to my friends and family. 

I had such a lovely time, not just eating but catching up with some familiar and new bloggers. Thank you to The Berkeley Square Hotel and Heather Cowper for inviting me.

The Cornish Burger Co at Steam Bristol

Last night I popped down to Steam in Clifton to sample their new burger pop up. Who doesn't love a big juicy burger on a boring Wednesday night?!

Although having heard of Steam, I hadn't yet visited so I was really delighted to get the invite. Walking in to the former Clifton Down railway ticket hall, I was instantly smitten with the gothic revival architecture. With big beautiful windows, pointed doors and 2 huge fireplaces at each end of the room, it had an industrial feel but with candles, leather armchairs and warm glowing lights, it still kept the coziness and charm. 

The Cornish Burger Co are Steams current residents and they did not disappoint. Having been making burgers and paella for 20 years in Cornwall, only the finest Cornish ingredients are used. 

 

I opted for The Janner. A 6oz Cornish beef burger with cheese, streaky bacon and onion marmalade, served with the usual salad/pickle garnish and a side of fries. Now, as a self confessed bacon addict, this had to be up there with the best I'd ever had. Thick, smoky and super crispy, it was like a bacon, pork scratching mash up. 

 

As you can see, portion wise, I was not left hungry. The burger itself was super juicy and well seasoned. The bun was soft and the combo of the salty bacon and the sweetness of the marmalade was pure wedded bliss.

After finishing the food, I got to have a little tour of next door, Shebeen. A quiet little bar, almost bordering on mancave, with armchairs and a little nook, is set to become the perfect Irish whiskey bar. I'll be covering more on Shebeen in the future. 

Food is available Mon-Thurs 5pm - 9pm 

Fri - Sat 12 noon - 9pm and Sun 12 noon - 8pm