Margot x Boatyard Distillery

Pictured with the Boatyard Gin and London Essence tonic.

On Monday night, my sister Gail and I headed to Belfast City Centre for a long overdue sisters’ night. What better way to catch up than over good food and drinks as Margot – a beautiful basement bar located beside City Hall – hosted a special evening with Boatyard Distillery.

My dinner (and gin) date, Gail.

When we arrived, we were shown to our table and presented with a tall and refreshing glass of Boatyard Gin with London Essence tonic and a wedge of pink grapefruit. It certainly hit the spot as we looked over the evening’s menu.

For the event, the Margot chefs created an exciting array of dishes. The food was matched with a selection of inventive Boatyard Distillery cocktails – all served with a Margot twist.

Before each course, we heard from Ciaran of the Boatyard Distillery, who gave a little bit of background on the Distillery, such as how it got its name, as well as the history of each of the signature serves used to make the cocktails. Ciaran was engaging whilst his charismatic style managed to retain the attention of a room full of tipsy people as he told the Boatyard story – very impressive.

The food menu offered a meat dish or vegetarian alternative. For starters I opted for the smoked salmon and Kilkeel crab whilst Gail chose the beetroot carpaccio. The dishes were beautifully presented and full of flavour. They were followed by the Babylon cocktail which had a base of the Boatyard sloe gin and an accompaniment of apricot brandy to create a warm, bold and tantalising mixture presented with a floating flower; I think this visually stunning concoction was my cocktail of the night.

The Babylon cocktail with the smoked salmon and Kilkeel crab.

Next up was a palate cleanser: locally made raspberry sorbet. This was a treat for the senses and provided a wonderful interlude to the meal.

The raspberry sorbet.

The next cocktail was the Boatyard Old Tom. This highball combined Boatyard Old Tom with fino apple sherry, cinnamon honey and peach soda – it was like autumn in a chilled glass

For mains there was no competition for me, I opted for the meat dish when I saw braised short rib on the menu. Served with creamy orange and herb polenta, this creation was delicious. The meat was tender and soft yet powerful as the flavours enhanced each other.

The Boatyard Old Tom and
the braised short rib.

I was excited for our next cocktail: the frothy Blueberry Hill. To create this masterpiece, Boatyard vodka, cointreau, citric acid, milk caramel, blueberries and an egg white were mixed to create a sweet yet sharp taste.

This was accompanied by dessert: a chocolate mousse laced with chantilly cream and served with smashed honeycomb and toasted hazelnuts. As someone with a sweet tooth, this ticked all the boxes for me and finished the meal off on a real high.

Blueberry Hill and the chocolate mousse with chantilly cream and honeycomb.

All that was left was a final cheers with an exquisite cocktail: the Martinez. This creation, which combines Boatyard Old Tom, vermouth and campari, may have been miniature but it packed a punch.

The small but mighty Martinez.

As we headed into the cold night air, there was a warm glow in my tummy and a smile on my face. Margot and Boatyard Distillery certainly proved to have all the right ingredients to serve up a memorable evening.

Posted: 30/9/2021

Whiskey in the Jar

I am in no way a whiskey connoisseur, but I appreciate some of Ireland’s best known amber offerings: I would never refuse a wee Black Bush, or a Jameson. With water, ice, or neat, there’s something about a whiskey that is warming, comforting, and even medicinal (hot toddy anyone?!).

When I saw the new kid on the block, Hinch Distillery, was offering whiskey tours, I have to admit I was intrigued. As whiskey is something appreciated within my family, this seemed the perfect day out, especially after a period when get togethers have been seriously limited due to Covid-19.

A few weeks ago (it’s taken me a while to sit down and write this because, well, life…) we masked up and hopped on a Newcastle-bound bus at the Europa bus station. Hinch Distillery has ample car parking but it seemed a waste for someone to drive and not get to try the tasting at the end of the tour. As there’s a bus stop within walking distance of the Distillery’s entrance, this was a great alternative.

Hinch Distillery, the brain child of Dr Terry Cross OBE, is located in the beautiful grounds of Killaney Estate, between Temple and Ballynahinch. Officially opened in March 2021, the custom built 30,000sq ft premises are impressive. The stone facade is complemented with stunning glasswork, intricate lighting and a rich navy and copper colour scheme.

There were five adults and a child in our party and everyone was made to feel part of the experience, right from the warm welcome we received on arrival. Initially when booking I wasn’t sure if under 18’s could take part, but I was impressed that you can book a child’s ticket. Priced at a discounted rate of £10, younger visitors can participate in all aspects of the tour, and when it comes to the tasting at the end, they can enjoy the soft drink of their choice.

We were a few minutes early for our tour so once we checked in we were invited to look around the visitor centre as we waited for the rest of the tour group to arrive. The offering on display included bottles of the award-winning Hinch Irish Whiskey as well as the equally celebrated Ninth Wave Irish Gin, which is also produced on the premises. Also for sale were a selection of high quality clothing, accessories, glasses, decanters and gift sets.

Our tour guide for the day was Claire. From the offset, it was apparent that Claire is a natural born storyteller and so the tale of Hinch Distillery has been entrusted to very capable hands. Not only is she knowledgeable about the products, the processes and the history of the company, she is hilarious to boot. There are several interactive parts of the tour and she made sure that everyone, especially the child in our group, felt included. From explaining the raw ingredients used to the mashing and distilling process, Claire was engaging and made the experience thoroughly entertaining throughout.

Hinch Irish Whiskey is made using water from the Mourne Mountains. As a Mourne woman, I have to say I was excited at the end of the tour to get to try some of the batches for myself in the beautiful surroundings of the Hinch Brasserie. This space marries dark wood with Hinch’s signature navy colour palette to wonderful effect. When seated, Claire presented us with our flights containing four samples of Hinch’s flagship whiskeys (this was part of the Premium Whiskey Tour. The Classic Whiskey Tour finishes with a sample of two of the flagship whiskeys). We started off with the Small Batch. At this point Claire pointed out something I had never been told in any of the tastings I have done in the past – when you smell the whiskey prior to tasting, you’ll notice one of your nostrils is more powerful than the other. For me, it was my right nostril. A fact I was amazed to uncover!

The Small Batch was instantly warming and a good introduction to the brand. Next was the 5 Year Old Double Wood, which was smooth and refined, then the Ten Year Sherry Finish, an instant classic and a firm favourite of the group, and then, to finish the line up, the discernable Peated Single Malt whiskey.

To complete our Distillery experience we decided to have a drink in the outside courtyard before getting the bus back to Belfast. There’s an extensive drinks offering available, from whiskey, gin, wine (including a selection from Dr Terry Cross’s vineyard, Château de La Ligne), to beers and ciders. I tried the Hinch Bordeaux Sour, which introduces Bordeaux Château de La Ligne to completely reimagine the classic whiskey sour. Whilst a cocktail in the stunning courtyard was a tranquil way to end our visit, I have to say it was slightly marred: one of the staff’s derisive response to our query whether we could order crisps as a small snack for the child in our group, was that we weren’t in a bar. Obviously a small thing, but after receiving such warmth and professionalism from the rest of the staff, it was slightly jarring and the attitude felt a bit unnecessary when she simply could have said that they don’t sell crisps.

As a whole, Hinch Distillery is absolutely worth a visit. If the whiskey tour doesn’t take your fancy, the Distillery also offers a fabulous sounding gin tour (you make your own gin to take home), and an excellent food menu. The premises can also be hired for private functions (can you imagine how amazing wedding photos would be here?). It was a fantastic overall experience, and Claire in particular is a remarkable asset to the Distillery. I would definitely be keen to visit again but in the meantime, I’ll happily make do with a glass of the Hinch Irish Whiskey Ten Year Sherry Finish. Cheers!

For more information or to book a tour, visit: https://www.hinchdistillery.com/

Posted 18/9/2021

Away with the Fairies

Nestled in the heart of the Mourne Mountains are picture perfect fairytale cottages. Fairy River, situated at the base of Slieve Muck mountain, features two underground cottages, one of which was my home recently during a girls’ getaway.

We travelled from Belfast and made a pitstop in Newcastle for lunch before finishing our journey. Total travelling time was a mere hour and a half. When we arrived our first impression came from the wonderful viewing farm located beside the car park. There were wonderful pigs whose houses were inspired by the fairytale about the three little pigs. There were also goats, bunnies and horses.

We stayed in cottage 2. Although both cottages are located beside each other, they are very private from each other. Each cottage has its own private garden with seating and a BBQ. The cottage itself was stunning. The brick work and design integrates into the landscape. The charming exterior is something reminiscent of the homes in Tolkien’s The Hobbit. As you make your way up the path you are greeted by a small fairy house at the front door which perfectly sets the tone for a stay.

Inside the cottage was a kitchen /dining area, living area with a gorgeous log burning fire, and two ensuite bedrooms which sleep up to 5 people. We quickly settled in and then the two 6 year olds in our group quickly discovered the Fairy River play park which boasts swings, slides and a zipline. Whilst the younger visitors can enjoy the facilities the older ones can appreciate the unrivalled views which include the stunning Mourne Mountains and sweep all the way down to the sea.

To dine you can bring your own food and use the fully equipped kitchen, avail of the on site BBQ or order a food delivery or click and collect takeaway (details of all can be found on the Fairy River website).

After a relaxed first day, we woke up ready to try something a little more adventurous: walking alpacas. Cranfield Alapacas is located 10 minutes away by car. Run by Peter and Pamela, I can’t recommend this superb centre enough. During our visit one of the alpacas took a turn and the local vet had to be called. Although this was bound to have been distressing, Peter and Pamela remained professional and attentive throughout. We had the pleasure of walking two of the alpacas: Sisqo and Pablo. The younger members of the group were able to take the lead on walking the alpacas and were positively beaming with pride by the time we returned the alpacas to their field. The day was topped off with the opportunity to feed the alpacas before mini versions of Sisqo and Pablo were purchased from the gift shop.

After the excitement we went back to the cottage to relax. There’s a smart tv you can use to log into Netflix and a blue tooth speaker for streaming music. There’s also the tranquil river that runs by the cottages making the garden a very tranquil spot to enjoy a glass of wine at the end of the day.

The Fairy River cottages, though a mere 12 minutes from where I grew up, are a new experience to me. But one I would love to repeat. This hidden gem has it all. Nature trails through the Mournes which can be accessed from the cottage for the outdoor lovers. Or an intimate and inviting interior for those just wanting to completely switch off and relax. The attention to detail is remarkable, with fairies hidden throughout the grounds making exploring fun for all ages. So, if you fancy a break from the hustle and bustle, then this is the ultimate spot for a fairytale getaway.

For more information visit: https://fairyriver.co.uk/

Posted 30/8/2021

The University of Wonder and Imagination

I recently went back to school when I registered to attend The University of Wonder and Imagination. Created and directed by Paul Bosco McEneaney, this fun and interactive hour-long theatre experience uses the magic of technology to deliver an ambitious theatre experience for all ages.

Staged by Cahoots NI as part of the Belfast International Arts Festival, this unique production puts the audience in the director’s chair as the choices you make during the live event, hosted via Zoom, will shape your individual experience.

Orientation comes from the mysterious Professor Bamberg (Sean Kearns) who explains the steps of your educational quest. As the audience solves puzzles they are introduced to a range of engaging lecturers in specially themed rooms; as you follow each quest, you could find yourself anywhere across space and time.

Our jam packed semester at The University of Wonder and Imagination saw us take lectures from the intriguing Professor Sharma (Lata Sharma), magical Professor Danny Carmo (Caolan McBride), the creative Professor Lola Hurst (Philippa O’Hara) and the imaginative Professor Wilbert Hoffman (Hugh W. Brown). The result was a mind boggling experience of wonder and illusion.

The University of Wonder and Imagination is unlike anything I have experienced before. Completely immersive, the experience is unconditionally engaging, educational and exciting. The purpose-built set and superb staging combined with the inventive incorporation of technology is revolutionary, showcasing that there is wealth of ingenious opportunities to be explored in the new era of theatre we have found ourselves in.

The University of Wonder and Imagination, which is suitable for ages 7+, runs until 1 November. To book your place and earn your diploma from The University of Wonder and Imagination, visit: cahootsni.com http://cahootsni.com or belfastinternationalartsfestival.com

Normal People: A Retrospective

Angst: I am addicted to it. Since I watched My So Called Life as a barely teenager, I was hooked. To this day I still have an emotional reaction when I think of Angela Chase and (the ultimate 90s crush) Jordan Catalano. My addiction was further fuelled by Dawson’s Creek, swiftly followed by Freaks and Geeks. I have always known I get too emotionally invested in fictional characters, and in all these drama series I felt the tension and turmoil on a very real level, whether it was ‘will they, won’t they’ or ‘should they, shouldn’t they’; it mattered to me if Angela and Jordan got together, if Joey dumped Dawson for Pacey or if Lindsay Weir would ever kiss Daniel Desario.

As a teenager the intensity with which you feel is unsurpassable, and I figured my addition to angst would die a death as I got older. Fast forward 20 years, and, if BBC’s Normal People has taught me anything, it’s that my addiction with angst is as strong as ever.

For anyone who hasn’t seen it, Normal People, based on the novel by Sally Rooney, is about the complex relationship between Marianne and Connell – played beautifully by Daisy Edgar-Jones and Paul Mescal. Established when they are teenagers at secondary school in Sligo, their story continues to unfold as they both move to Dublin to study at Trinity. It starts out like many ‘teen’ dramas. Connell is sporty and popular, Marianne is intimidatingly intelligent and an outcast. But that is where the stereotyping ends. Connell is smart and Marianne is vulnerable. And they both are achingly insecure. However, as they begin to find themselves, often through each other, that is where the magic of the drama happens. Across 12 episodes you see these characters grow and evolve. However, life, as it often does, gets in the way. They suffer dramas and traumas. Life is not a fairytale. And the storytelling is all the better for realising that.

This show, although verging on soft porn territory at parts, is a tragic love story that absolutely destroyed me. The characters of Marianne and Connell are, as the name suggests, normal people. They are relatable, likeable but also broken. There is no perfection, just characters who are multi-layered, nuanced and honest. Although, perhaps not always honest with each other. Which creates a wonderful set up for angst; the viewer knows what the characters want, but they are often too afraid to communicate it to each other.

Once again I found myself fiercely invested in fictional characters. I think that is why I love angst so much. It reignites that level of passionate I thought would become relegated to my teenage years. But it also acts as a mirror of self-discovery. It is very easy to be voyeuristic about the experience, but it is also hard to not see yourself in some of the characters’ traits. Rather than urging Marianne and Connell to be more honest about their feelings, it often makes you ponder how honest you are being with yourself – which, in my opinion, can never be a bad thing.

So, whether for Marianne’s wardrobe, the thirst trap of Connell’s chain (check out the instagram if you haven’t already – @connellschain), the haunting soundtrack (relive it at BBC Sounds: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/brand/p08b2qwp), or the authentic storytelling, Normal People is worth a watch. And, if you are a bit of a sucker for an angsty drama, be prepared to become obsessed with this emotional rollercoaster of a story.

Posted: 17/5/2020

Review: New Speak

L-R back row: Rebecca Mairs (Lyric Theatre), Lata Sharma, Dominic Montague, Jude Quinn (Amadan Ensemble) and Jimmy Fay (Lyric Theatre). L-R front row: Zara Janahi (Ajendance), Emily Foran, Clare Montgomery (Ajendance), Annika Graham (Ajendance), Gemma Mae Halligan (Amadan Ensemble) and Bronagh McFeely (Lyric Theatre).

I have been impressed and inspired by how swiftly the Northern Irish art scene has evolved and adapted to the new norm during the Coronavirus pandemic. (I would like to say I have also been creative during this time, however, this is my first post in over two months!) From workshops from ArtsEkta (https://www.facebook.com/artsekta1) and Beyond Skin (www.beyondskin.net/online-workshops); and online exhibitions from galleries such as ArtisAnn (https://www.artisann.org/exhibition—belfast-is-my-city.html); to musicians playing live such as the Ulster Orchestra‘s Facebook series #UOletsplayathome (https://www.facebook.com/ulsterorchestra); and authors using online as a medium to reach their audiences, such as award-winning children’s author Oliver Jeffers‘ Stay at Home Storytime every weekday on instagram (https://www.instagram.com/oliverjeffers/), the cultural offering is rich, diverse and engaging.

Another Northern Irish institution which continues to impress is the Lyric Theatre. On Friday they debuted their new online series of performances, New Speak: Re-Imagined. This initiative showcases five exciting and very different artists, working on their own forms, and reacting to the current political, economic and social climate of today. Each of the four weekly instalments debut on a Friday at 7pm on the Lyric’s YouTube channel or at https://lyrictheatre.co.uk/event/new-speak/ and are available to view for a week until the next weekly instalment is unveiled. Episode 1 premiered on Friday 24th April and it was everything I could have hoped for and more. Running just over 20 minutes, the production saw new works from Amadan Ensemble, Dominic Montague, Zara Janahi of Ajendance, Lata Sharma, and Katie Richardson.

Gemma Mae Halligan and Jude Quinn, Amadan Ensemble.

The Great British Lockdown, the opening sketch starring Gemma Mae Halligan and Jude Quinn of Amadan Ensemble, sees children’s entertainer Graham and civil servant Rebecca navigate their way through the pandemic whilst cohabiting. From ensuring they remain the required two meters apart (with the aid of a rope tied around their waists) to keeping their child in his room and feeding him with a bucket pulley system through his window, the result is a hilarious look at our new normal, providing much needed comic relief during these unprecedented times.

Patrick McBrearty (performing Dominic Montague’s Real Talk.

Real Talk, written by Dominic Montague and performed by Patrick McBrearty, is a though-provoking look at the current climate, touching on rationing and naming and shaming anyone acting suspicious in order to gain extra citizen points. The tone and content, although hiding behind a veil of humour, provides a dark commentary reminiscent of an episode of Black Mirror.

Lata Sharma performing Sausage Sodas and Onion Bahjees.

Whilst Real Talk provides a wide scope, Sausage Sodas and Onion Bahjees, written and performed by Lata Sharma, shines a light on the cultural differences which make up Northern Ireland. This is wonderfully highlighted by the ease at which Sharma switches between her Northern Irish accent to the Indian inflection when imitating her mother as she recounted the trials and tribulations of an Indian teenager being raised in Northern Ireland. Whilst seemingly light-hearted, the undercurrent is all the more powerful as the result of the intriguing and captivating delivery.

Zara Janahi (Ajendance).

The dance and musical aspects of this first instalment are truly captivating. The Perception of the World Through My Eyes, performed by Zara Janahi and choreographed by Annika Drennan-Rocke, Clare Montgomery and Zara Janahi, is incredibly relatable. Focusing on the relationship between Mother Nature and humans, the line, “Your actions will determine your fate, not mine – I am Mother Nature” denotes a dystopian future if we don’t change the world. Janahi’s emotive piece perfectly treads the line between vulnerability and dominance with an energy that it is hard to look away from.

Katie Richardson.

The concluding musical number, My Mind is a Weapon, written and beautifully sung by Katie Richardson, featuring an interpretative dance by Ryan O’Neil and Vasiliki Stasinki, is a breath-taking conclusion to the episode. ‘My Mind is a Weapon’ is a rousing anthem, which is riveting and haunting, and left me feeling surprisingly empowered, despite having found ourselves in a situation where the only course of action, is inaction.

New Speak is a skillful and invigorating project that continues to shine a light into our cultural lives even though stages across the world remain in darkness. As well as helping us to re-evaluate our world with fresh eyes, the different perspectives and fresh voices help inspire, comfort and challenge throughout; as a result is does exactly what art should do and makes us re-examine the here and now and look at it with a more open mindset.

You can still catch episode one of New Speak: Re-Imagined here:

Episode two will be screened from 7pm on Friday 1st May. For full listings, visit:

https://lyrictheatre.co.uk/event/new-speak/

Venice in Pictures

• 

  Lauren, Gemma, Kellie and LA.

When a whimsical lunch break with my work colleagues, Gemma, LA and Lauren, escalated from discussing a possible weekend in Edinburgh to finding an amazing weekend break in Venice, our flights were booked before you could say City of Water.

We jetted off the weekend before Valentine’s Day, which happy coincidence was the start of the famous Venice festival. Our flight was Belfast International Airport was slightly delayed, but, since we were all super excited, the time flew in and we had touched down before we knew it.

There are a few ways to travel to your hotel, however we opted for the Alilaguna public boat which took us directly from the airport to the nearest water stop, located a mere 5 minutes walk from our hotel. It was dark when we arrived and so we didnt see much of Venice but the transport was very easy to navigate and at €27 for a return trip, was very reasonable.

Our hotel for the weekend was the Palazzo San Lorenzo. This elegant 4-star boutique hotel, which boasts 26 stunning bedrooms, enjoys a prime location overlooking the Rio dell’Osmarin. All the key tourist spots are within walking distance, whilst the area immediately surrounding the hotel is brimming with snack spots and inviting restaurants.

Venice is not a large city, and the many bridges scattered throughout make it possible to walk to most destinations. However, with alleyways and walkways galore, Google Maps will quickly become your best friend.

My experience in Venice elicited several gasps due to the breathtaking views, from St Mark’s Basilica (if you visit it’s worth paying €5 to go to the roof were you can see the famous Roman horse sculptures, ancient mosiacs and stunning views); the illustrious Rialto bridge and the aptly named Grand Canal; and the colourful houses of Burano island. When exploring this extraordinary capital city, it was hard not to feel like you had wandered into a painting. It is impossible not to constantly snap photos, although they really do not do the views justice. Regardless, a picture – and video – speaks a thousand words, and so I wanted to share a snapshot of my first Italian adventure.

Christmas Traditions

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.

Posted 23/12/2019

Eat, drink and be merry: new discoveries this Christmas

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.

Posted 15/12/2019