‘A lot of great inventions have come out of British sheds,’ chuckles Mr Singh cheerfully as he leads me literally up the garden path. Here, in a quiet back garden in an anonymous street in London’s West Ham is the shed where, back in 2008/9, Mr Singh first cooked up his weapons grade chilli sauce in any real quantity.
Charbrew specialist teas and tisanes, full flavoured infusions.
Charbrew teas contain some interesting ingredients including, among other things, lemongrass, coconut rasps, fruits, cardamom, beetroot and carrot, as well as whole leaves and flowers, in bringing together their range. These little bags of promise deliver some very bold vibrant flavours, that lingered on the palate after drinking.
The finest ham -free at Iberica, London
All this week they’re showcasing Jabugo Ham Sierra Mayor at Iberica by giving away free samples with every meal. Iberica has just been awarded a bib by the Michelin guide, one of the few things that fossilised institution actually got right.
The Fox and Anchor serves what may be the best Full English Breakfast in London
In search of a proper Full English breakfast to fuel his day, Nick Harman finds perfection on a plate in the classic surroundings of one of the few unsullied pubs in London. Just hold the beans, please.
Almond cake with a honey-orange blossom syrup
This is a rich almond cake from the Convent of Vidigueira, in Alentejo. to which I have introduced two things that make the cake stand out and taste even nicer: some sheets of filo pastry on top which add extra texture and a honey-orange blossom syrup which give extra scent and moistness.
Clos Maggiore – a restaurant in London’s Covent Garden
You’re not going to have a mind-bending gastronomic experience here, the food is not the star you are. Or rather you and your date. And there’s nothing wrong with that, too many restaurants ask you to bow down to their altar of food and say ‘I do’ to chef’s ego. Clos Maggiore is more concerned in marrying good food and a memorable experience for couples who want a special occasion
Jean-Georges Vongerichten returns to London with Spice Market, Leicester Square
Internationally renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, holder of three Michelin stars at his restaurant Jean Georges, Central Park West, Manhattan, is set to open his latest venture in London. Spice Market will open at the new W London – Leicester Square hotel, Wardour Street, in February.
Sauterelle restaurant in London has Valentine’s Day menu
Smart service, smashing view, well-priced food and somewhere a bit different to go on the big night, Sauterelle actually gets my unbiased vote. On an evening where rip offs lurk around every corner and shabby service and bad food are shovelled out to a cornered and quiescent clientele, Sauterelle does the business and ‘laydeez’ get roses, chocolates and goody bags too. You gotta love that.
Help Haiti. Eat chocolate
Salve your social conscience by savouring some Thorntons Chocolate. Every bar of their new Limited Edition Chocolate Block made from Haiti cocoa beans bought means 91p heading towards Haiti and the Save the Children educational programme there.
We round-up the best in Valentines Day eating, presents and weekend breaks.
If like us you’re already dreading the big V-Day, you’ll be pleased to hear that we’ve taken the donkeywork out of planning your one chance to shine romantically.