Afternoon Tea is one of my favourite treats, especially when enjoyed with some of my favourite people. However, with lockdown and the knock on effect it’s had on the hospitality industry, this is one treat I haven’t been able to enjoy as much as I would like lately.
My lack of a sugar fix, however, was recently treated thanks to Ivy’s Bakes on the Castlereagh Road, Belfast.
This fantastic family-run bakery offers a wonderful takeaway afternoon tea, brimmed full of all the special offerings you could hope for. It can even cater for allergies and intolerances, with gluten free and vegan alternatives, for example, also being available.
One major component of afternoon tea are the sandwiches; fillings available from Ivy’s Bakes include; egg and mayo, coronation chicken, ham and cheese, and salad.
Next up is the foundation of a good afternoon tea, as well as fruit and plain scones, you can also chose from white chocolate and raspberry (which are stunning!) and savoury options for those who aren’t such a fan of all things sweet. Mini packs of butter and jam are also included to take the scones to the next level.
An afternoon tea would not be complete without tray bakes and cakes and here Ivy’s really comes into its element; from rich brownies, lemon squares and lolly-shaped cakes, to giant Viennese Whirls, German biscuits and peanut mallow slices, there is something for all tastes.
For those who like a little bit of sparkle to their afternoon tea, miniature bottles of prosecco or champagne can be added to your order.
Presentation is such a huge part of the afternoon tea experience. To help recreate the look at home, Ivy’s Bakes also provides a cardboard cake stand which you set up at home with the oodles of freshly made goodies.
Initially I wasn’t sure how the afternoon tea experience would translate when moved to home. However, with quality baking, superb variety and good value for money, Ivy’s Bakes takeaway afternoon tea is a surprisingly good alternative. You can enjoy it where you like, when you like and with who like. In these uncertain times, that added flexibility can really be an added bonus to an excellent concept.
One sure fire way to blow away the cobwebs is a visit to the North Coast, and that’s what my family and I did over the weekend.
WHERE WE STAYED
Our home for the weekend was the well appointed Ulster Cottages. Situated a few miles from Portrush, Portstewart, Coleraine and Bushmills, these modern, spacious cottages are the perfect base for exploring the North Coast. Our cottage slept 6 adults (and a tiny human) and was equipped with three bedrooms, two ensuites, and a kitchen with all the amenities you could need. The Ulster Cottages also has ample parking spaces making it ideal if you are travelling from further afield and want to take your car with you.
PENNY ARCADE
The Super Mario haul from the arcades.
Although Barry’s Amusements is shut until Easter, the four-year-old in our midst was delighted to visit the several Amusements dotted along the Main Street in Portrush which are still open outside of peak season. As a huge fan of Super Mario – particularly Princess Peach – she was vibrating with excitement as her dad managed to defeat the Claw Grabbing Machine to add a haul of new additions to her Super Mario collection.
SIGHTSEEING
Whilst it was quite blustery during our visit, the sun came out and we had the chance to walk along the East Strand. Along with the stunning Arcadia building (which is closed until Easter) and an unrivalled glimpse of Whiterocks beach, this area of the town is a wonderful spot for scenic photos and relaxing views.
As the sun continued to shine we decided to also check out Dunluce Castle. Dramatically perched on the edge of a cliff, these iconic ruins, which were built around 1500, are truly a wonder to behold. As well as exploring the rich history of the Castle, from its ownership to how it instigated the formation of Dunluce town, as well as eerie tales of banshees, this National Trust treasure, which boasts breathtaking views, is a must visit.
The view from Dunluce Castle.
FOOD AND DRINK
The North Coast is synonymous with good food and drink. Whether you want something simple like fish and chips or something more gastronomic, you are sure to find something to tickle your tastebuds. We enjoyed the chunkiest chips at Mr Chips Diner – which has views as impressive as the food – but the piece de resistance for me was dinner at The Bushmills Inn. The historic building, with whitewashed walls and warm mellow brick timbers, is warm and inviting whilst the staff are attentive and welcoming. The menu offers a diverse range of locally sourced dishes, from fresh seafood to steaks and – what I devoured – tender chicken with dauphinoise potatoes and roasted carrots. The desserts all sounded delectable but I had to sample the Bushmills Irish coffee, which really was one of the best I’ve ever tasted.
Whether for a cosy lunch or an evening meal, the Bushmills Inn – as I found out – is definitely the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion and make unforgettable memories with your nearest and dearest.
The North Coast is not only a place to visit during the summer months. Winter and early spring bring clear crisp days, and dramatic landscapes that are guaranteed to capture your heart. With something for all ages, from the Bushmills distillery tour to walks along the beach and arcades galore, a visit is sure to be anything but mundane.
Christmas is my favourite times of year. Although I love the spontaneous nights out, the unexpected catchups with friends and making new memories every year, I also love those traditions which make the festive season complete. Here’s my top 5 traditions that are top of my Christmas list.
1. Christmas production at the Lyric
I love a trip to the Lyric Theatre in Belfast anytime of the year, but for me it does not feel like Christmas without catching the theatre’s Christmas production. This year’s festive offering was Grimes and McKee’s Driving Home For Christmas. Directed by Frankie McCafferty, Driving Home For Christmas sees various travellers finding themselves at the Dander Inn, deep in the Sperrins, on Christmas Eve as the roads become impassable as the result of a ferocious snow storm. As it seems unlikely the weather will clear up, they find themselves facing up to the liklihood of spending Christmas together, with their increasingly strange hosts, Pat and Paddy.
Grime and McKee’s Driving Home For Christmas.
Driving Home For Christmas is a wonderful combination of comedy and drama with just the right amount of musical numbers. The performances from all the cast were superb, though with the multiple role as proprietors of the Dander Inn, Connor Grimes stole the show for me.
After last year’s staging of Bah!Humbug, the standard of expectation was very high. Although Driving Home For Christmas took a while to warm up, it was bursting with laughs, creative staging and twists that’s keep you on your toes throughout. So, if you fancy something a little bit different this Christmas period, be sure to snap up tickets to the Lyric Theatre; Driving Home For Christmas runs until 4 January 2020, the recommended viewing age is for 14 years old +
2. Wrapping presents whilst watching Elf
Elf is one of my favourite festive films. It is fun, colourful and spreads Christmas cheer every year. I have seen the film that many times now, I can almost recite it word for word. It has also got to the stage, much like Will Ferrell’s other comedic masterpiece Anchorman, that I find myself laughing before key moments as I know what’s coming. As I love it so much, every year I love combining a viewing of it with one of my other favourite things to do at Christmas: wrapping presents. By the end, my Christmas cheer levels are through the roof.
If you have not yet watched Elf, or just want to rewatch it, catch it on Christmas Eve on UTV at 5.15pm.
3. Watching It’s A Wonderful Life at QFT
The Queen’s Film Theatre is a wonderful place to visit. This time of year it is even magical, as without fail it adds a screening of my all time favourite festive film to its listing. It’s A Wonderful Life, featuring the superb James Stewart, tells the story of George Bailey, who after problem and problem befalls him, begins to question if taking his own life is his only solution. After his guardian angel Clarence is sent to earth, he aims to show George what the world would be like without him.
It’s A Wonderful Life, whilst not a cookie cutter happy film, never fails to send me away with a smile on my face; George Bailey is a good man who goes above and beyond for those he loves and it’s hard not to get invested in his fate. With themes of friends, family and loyalty, set against Christmas, it’s the perfect film for this time of year.
It’s A Wonderful Life runs at the QFT until Christmas eve 2019.
4. Having a chimney cake at the Belfast Christmas Market
Christmas is a time for sugar and one of the things I love most about the festive season is my annual trip to the Belfast Christmas Market for my annual Chimney Cake. Originally a Hungarian street snack, the chimney cake has a crispy exterior and a soft interior. Coated in cinnamon and sugar and filled with ice cream, fudge and chocolate brownies, it is pure decadence and one of the things I look forward to every Christmas.
At the Belfast Christmas Market for my annual Chimney Cake.
5. Family time
My all time favourite thing about Christmas is getting to spend time with the family. The big day itself is filled with calling at different houses, delivering presents and spending quality time with loved ones. As the family make up changes, Christmas day traditions continue to change and evolve but as long it’s filled with family, good food, a few drinks, love and laughter, my wish list is complete.
The beginning of Christmas traditions, big sister Gail (left) and me.
I hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and enjoy your festive traditions, whatever they may be.
One of favourite parts of Christmas is the opportunity to catch up with some of my favourite people whilst getting the chance to discover new places along the way. This week I visited two new hotspots and re-discovered an old favourite…
COFFEE AT BOLT
Bolt Cafe, situated off Boucher Road, is a new venture by Charles Hurst Group. The modern 80-seat cafe and restaurant boasts a New York feel, with high ceilings, exposed brick and steel beams. The cafe, which is being run by Hospitality Belfast, a joint venture between Mount Charles and Yellow Door, offers a creative and reasonably priced food menu with an emphasis on high quality produce. I only popped in for a latte, and was impressed with the extensive coffee menu on offer. The coffee, which is locally sourced, tasted amazing, and the staff were incredibly welcoming and cheerful; I left with a smile on my face and will definitely be back to sample the food.
Kimchi Chicken Ramen
RAMEN AT KAMAKURA
I have been wanting to try Kamakura, a sushi and ramen restaurant located on Donegall Pass, for ages. I finally had the opportunity when my sister, Gail, and I were planning a pre Christmas dinner and catch up. We visited on a Wednesday night, and the colourful, brightly lit space, had already attracted a number of diners who were tucking in to a selection of divine looking dishes.
As we were being seated our waitress offered to take our coats. Once settled, we looked over the menu, which is extensive, and there were several dishes that took my fancy. After much deliberation we opted to order a portion of Gyoza to share as a starter, whilst for mains I selected the Kimchi Chicken Ramen and Gail ordered the Katsu Chicken Curry with rice.
Katsu Curry
I haven’t had Gyoza before but I absolutely loved the deep fried dumplings whilst the flavoursome Gyoza sauce was perfect for dipping them in. The Kimchi Chicken Ramen, which was presented in a deep bowl, was incredibly impressive. The chicken was succulent, the chicken and pork broth was rich with flavour whilst the oodles of noodles and topping of bean sprouts added a delightful texture. With a hint of spice it was the perfect way to warm up on a winter’s night. The Katsu curry, likewise, was scrumptious. The breaded chicken was plentiful and the sauce was delicate, perfectly balancing spice and flavour.
With the option to sit in or take away, this is one place I will definitely be frequenting again; there are a number of dishes my taste buds would be keen to explore in future.
CHRISTMAS DINNER AT NEILL’S HILL
I first tried Neill’s Hill several years ago for lunch. I thoroughly enjoyed it at the time, however I haven’t been back since. When it came to planning a Christmas dinner with a group of friends, it was one of the venues that came up in discussion, and after a look at the menu we were all sold.
The atmosphere on arrival was electric with a number of parties getting well and truly stuck into the festivities. We were shown to our seats, and as we had pre-ordered our food, the only decision we had to make was what drinks we would like to order.
The service throughout the meal was superb, with staff being professional and attentive without being overbearing. The food was also of a high standard, being well presented whilst also creating an exquisite compilation of flavours.
Though we ordered from a set Christmas menu, the choices were varied with something to suit all palates. Starters included grilled goats cheese, prawn cocktail, mushroom pate and vegetable and barley broth, however I went for the Thai salad. Combining seared beef, noodles and chilli, this was an explosion of flavour, which got the meal off to a wonderful start.
Thai salad
For mains, there was traditional roast turkey with all the trimmings, roast fillet of hake, and lamb tagine, to name a few, however I couldn’t resist the roast breast of Gressingham duck, which was served with an apple and cranberry jus and potato gratin. I requested it to be cooked medium and it was served perfectly. It was tender and succulent, whilst the potato was flavoursome and the perfect accompaniment.
My favourite dish is always dessert, and for this we were spoilt for choice with options including, Christmas pudding, creme brulee, pecan pie and lemon posset. I subscribe to the notion that a good dessert requires chocolate as the key ingredient so I had to chose the steamed chocolate pudding with chocolate and hazelnut sauce and vanilla ice cream. The combination of hot and cold is always a winner, whilst the pudding was rich and gooey, and I devoured every last morsel from my plate.
Steamed Chocolate Pudding
After having enjoyed a wonderful evening of laughs – thanks to the crackers with cheesy jokes that adorned the tables – not to mention appetising food, I couldn’t help but wonder why it has been so long since I dined at Neill’s Hill. After this experience, however, one thing is for sure, it won’t be as long next time.
Anyone who reads the blog will know my sister Gail and I are afternoon tea-aholics. And so we figured the best way to instill this love for all things dainty and sweet into the next generation was to take my four-year-old niece Rachel to Princess Afternoon Tea which was held in The Treehouse, Belfast.
The sun was shining for our sugar-fuelled adventure and The Treehouse, the rooftop bar and restaurant above AM:PM on Upper Arthur Street, looked absolutely stunning. On arrival the grown ups were welcomed with a glass of ice cold prosecco whilst the little princesses were treated to their choice of orange or blackcurrant juice.
Before food was served, there were smiles galore as real life princesses Rapunzel, Ariel and Elsa mingled with families and posed for photos.
Rapunzel
Elsa
When it was time for tea to be served, the kids were served their choice of dish which varied from pasta to chicken goujons, whilst the grown ups enjoyed finger sandwiches, soup and cheese bites before a three tie stand brimming with sweet treats was presented to each table. With scones accompanied with jams and fresh cream, profiteroles, chocolate gateau and cake bites, this was the perfect way to indulge your sweet tooth.
Once the food was inhaled the little ladies were invited up to dance with their favourite princesses before having the opportunity to get their face painted. During this Gail and I soaked up the sun whilst enjoying a chilled glass of Jawbox gin with ginger and honeycomb – which probably explains why we also ended up with getting our faces painted.
The Princess Afternoon Tea at The Treehouse was a fabulous day; whilst the little princesses had a belter of a day – Rachel did not want to leave – there was delicious food and an extensive drinks menu to also keep the adults thoroughly entertained. With the announcement there’s a Hocus Pocus Family afternoon tea scheduled for October in sister restaurant the Cabaret Supper Club, I already have my Halloween plans sorted!
Gail McNair and Kellie Burch at the recent #BlackBushStoroes event. Picture courtesy of Brendan Gallagher.
What have tea and whiskey got in common? Quite a lot as I discovered at the latest #BlackBushStories series of event.
Black Bush Blended, which took place on a cold and wet Wednesday night, saw The Menagerie on University Street, Belfast, transformed into the perfect lair to mix flavoursome concoctions. Joining Lauren McMullan, Bushmills Irish Whiskey Brand Ambassador, in discussing the art of blending was Oscar Woolley, who along with Annie Rooney, co founded Northern Irish tea company, Suki Tea.
Lauren McMullan, Bushmills Irish Whiskey Brand Ambassador and Oscar Woolley, co founder of Northern Irish tea company, Suki Tea. Picture courtesy of Brendan Gallagher.
After the evening’s host, Belfast Telegraph food critic Joris Minne, quizzed Lauren and Oscar on the fascinating components involved in creating different varieties of whiskey and tea, guests, who were welcomed with a whiskey high ball, were then invited to sample three Bushmills whiskeys followed by complementing teas.
First up was the Bushmills original. The spicy and fruity tones of this whiskey was wonderfully matched by Oscar’s Matcha apple creation. Once tasted, then chased with another sip of the Bushmills Original, the apple tones of this liquor really came to the fore; I found this exploration of taste to be quite simply mind-blowing.
The second whiskey in the tasting panel was Red Bush. Often served with lemonade and called a ‘Red and White’, this was sweeter and boasted a more woody base with hints of vanilla. To accompany this, Oscar presented a Rooibos Crème Brûlée. This really did what it said on the tin and tasted like a Crème Brûlée, but – and this is the best bit – without the calories.
The final pairing kicked off with the ever popular – and the event’s namesake, Black Bush. With fruity and nutty undertones, this whiskey is velvety smooth and my favourite of the three. It was matched with the limited edition Black Bush Blend of tea which Oscar mixed specifically for the event. It was rich and smooth and I was delighted to learn we each got a tin to take home and savour whenever we like.
The Old Fashioned
We had been thoroughly spoilt by this point, but the evening was not over and we were treated to delicious Old Fashions served in Bushmills tumblers as the floor was opened to the audience to ask Lauren and Oscar questions. From the importance water plays in blending tea and whiskey, how vital the nose is when it comes to taste and whether Suki Tea will be able to emulate Bushmills and grow and create their product on Northern Irish soil, it became really apparent that whiskey and tea aren’t all that different.
The evening concluded with the very exciting opportunity to create our own tea after once we finished sipping tea inspired cocktails, served in specially branded Suki Tea mugs. Not only was taste of our concoctions important but the winning name would win a prize. My creation, which had a black tea and lemon base and boasted hints of raspberries, chocolate, ginger and sunflower leaves, was christened Bumble Tea. Unfortunately I didn’t win, but I did get to bag and seal my tea so I can try it at home.
Bumble Tea blend.
Bushmills Blended really highlighted the delicate nature of blending a product that will win over taste buds to become household names. Both Bushmills and Suki Tea are innovative companies excelling at producing quality products that stand the test of time. Created with passion and affection, it is clear to see why tea and whiskey complement each other so much and why this pairing is just begging to be the next big drink trend.
If you are interested in attending the next #BlackBushStories event or finding out more about the Bushmills and its inventive collaborators such as with Suki Tea, visit:www.blackbushstories.com
I grew up minutes from Kilkeel but until very recently I had never visited Kilkeel Golf Club. In fact, I couldn’t even have told you how to get there. This was rectified recently when my mum, sister, niece and I decided to check it out for lunch. Of course, as generally happens with us, our scheduled lunch in the Golf Club’s restaurant, Hunter’s Moon, coincided with a storm – Storm Hannah to be exact.
When we arrived we were almost blown sideways as the winds had gathered pace, however we made it inside in one piece. Hunter’s Moon is located upstairs and upon entering we immediately noticed the splendid views across the golf course. We opted for a window seat and although there was no one making the rounds outside, it was perfect for storm watching.
The interior of the restaurant is very modern with a neutral colour palette complemented wonderfully with dashes of duck egg blue. The ambience is very warm and inviting and we were immediately welcomed and presented with a menu which offered a variety of very tempting options. There were several dishes that appealed to me but I eventually chose the sticky soy and sesame beef with noodles, roasted red peppers and coriander. As well as being beautifully presented, the dish was bursting with flavour. My mum opted for the local chowder of the day with Guinness wheaten bread whilst my sister ordered the roasted turkey and chorizo wraps with cheddar, smoked chilli mayonnaise, with balsamic and honey dressed salad. Each of these dishes were flavoursome, and packed full with fresh produce. If you have any allergies, Hunter’s Moon is happy to cater to your specific needs which is an added bonus if you are struggling to find someplace to dine if you have specific dietary requirements.
With our plates practically licked clean, we had to reluctantly turn down dessert as we were fit to burst. As it was time to head back to the storm, we each promised we would return. The venue is charming, the food is delectable, the service was attentive and professional and, much to my relief, it was much easier to find than I anticipated. Hunter’s Moon really proved to be the perfect haven from the storm!
I first had Tipsy Tea when I visited Frankie, my friend – and sister from a different mister – in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. The concept of sweet treats paired with China teapots brimming with cocktails had me from the offset. I loved that experience so much that when I heard Tipsy Tea was coming to Belfast courtesy of Babel – the roof top bar of Bullitt Hotel – I was dusting off my tea cup in excitement. Of course, the only person to sample it with, was big sis and my afternoon tea accomplice, Gail, who had got me a voucher to try it a couple of months back for my birthday.
With the agreement to make a day of it, and to get our glad rags on, I couldn’t wait for a girl’s afternoon of pastries, cocktails and a long overdue gossip.
Big sis and afternoon tea accomplice, Gail.
When we arrived at Babel, we were warmly welcomed by a member of staff who showed us to our table and then discussed the menu with us. Babel take care of the food so the only decision you need to make is which cocktail you would like; the gin cocktail Tipsy Tea is £29.50 pp or if you need some bubbles in your life the champagne cocktail option is £44.50 pp. We both went for gin with Gail selecting The Pickford Twist (Monkey 47 mixed with a variety of fruit infused flavours for a sweet and complex concoction) whilst I went for the Borrough’s Rose (Beefeater 24 combined with rose, lemon and camomile flavours for a refreshing finish).
The Pickford Twist gin cocktail.
The Borrough’s Rose cocktail.
The service was swift and we were promptly served our individual pots of ‘tea’ alongside our shared double tier afternoon tea stand filled with all kinds of delights. With sandwiches with chicken, brie and beef fillings, paired with coffee and lemon mini eclairs and, my favourites, salted caramel and chocolate donuts, the food went down a treat. The only thing I did miss was a good, old fashioned, scone, but that’s just me.
Babel is somewhere I definitely recommend for a visit. Boasting an excellent outdoor space with stunning views of Belfast as well as a chic and inviting interior, and the fabulous living wall behind the bar which ensures cocktails are freshly garnished, it is ideal for any occasion. And, while there, do give Tipsy Tea a whirl, whether just out for a girly catch up or for a celebration, it really is the perfect way to catch up over a very special cup of tea.
For Christmas this year, my sister Gail and I decided to do something a bit different. Rather than get individual presents for each other, we decided to gift ourselves with an experience we could enjoy together. After much research we opted to book in for a Pasta Making class with Chef Jeffers at the Forestside Cookery School. After much eager anticipation, last night was the night to don our aprons and to cook up a storm.
I have lost count of the amount of times I have been in Forestside Shopping Centre and I could not figure out where the Cookery School was located. Turns out it was glaringly obvious as it is accessed by its own lift, located on the lower level beside the escalators. When the lift doors opened into the restaurant part of the Cookery School I was impressed with the ambient atmosphere that welcomed us. Quaint wooden tables adorned with textured plates and woven coasters were complemented with teal tumblers, jugs of lemonade and still water and candles.
Once all attendees arrived, we were personally welcomed by Chef Jeffers who showed us into the kitchen and directed us to our workstations for the duration of the class. Awaiting us were clipboards with our recipes (which you could jot down notes on throughout and take home with you at the end), which on this occasion was to make Italian sausage cannelloni with tomato ragu and mascarpone cream sauce.
As this was our first cooking class we were both a little nervous, but it could not have been easier. Chef Jeffers provided an informative demo of each stage of the recipe whilst his team of assistants (the fabulous Catherine and Chloe) provided us with pre measured ingredients and utensils for when we attempted it for ourselves.
Gail and I are both pasta addicts and were very excited to learn how to make our own. It was simple, and a great workout for the arms, and as we made it without a pasta rolling machine it’s definitely something I will be trying again at home. The sauces and filling for the pasta were equally as straight forward and the recipe for each, especially after the demos, were easy to follow.
Whilst during most of the classes provided by the Forestside Cookery School you are able to eat the result of your hard labour in the restaurant afterwards, this particular dish took a lot longer to prepare and so we were treated to wine and a charcuterie board with cold meats, crackers, goat’s cheese as well as bread sticks and olives whilst we packed our finished dishes into takeaway container to enjoy in the comfort of our own homes.
I have to say, whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a budding Masterchef, I couldn’t recommend Forestside Cookery School more. The class definitely allows you to improve your skills in the kitchen and as the process is broken down into easy to manage steps, it provides you with a dish you will have the ability to easily recreate again by yourself. Chef Jeffers and his team were all friendly, fun and approachable, constantly on hand to answer any questions, to check your progress and to help with any issues you might have (for us it was a touch screen hob for which we did not seem to have the magic touch!). The class also had the chance to meet new people and to chat between cooking as well as over the wine and nibbles. It’s a fun evening and regardless of whether you are there solo, with a bestie or with a group, it gives you the chance to learn a new skill, master a new dish and meet new people along the way. I definitely will be back for seconds.
Kellie and Gail with Chef Jeffers of the Forestside Cookery School.
LittleBurch 