Artichoke, Amersham

When Raymond Blanc declares that he’s taken a bit of a ‘shine’ to a restaurant, you figure it’s worth investigating. Artichoke, occupying a Grade-II listed 16th century building, reopened last December after a devastating fire. Lois London finds a warm welcome.

Auguring a Feast

Douglas Blyde escapes hostile weather for exotic connations – the launch of ‘Malaysia Kitchen’, a campaign to celebrate London’s 41 eateries…

Brixton Big Foodie Day

Performance art and food bloggers, two things that make me reach for my gun. Luckily they will be in the same place this Saturday 15th January in Brixton. Should save me some ammo eh? . In all seriousness Brixton could do with a lift and if this turns out to be more than transitory trendiness it will be a ‘good thing’

Jak’s, London

Jak’s is open from early until late, a real constant presence in a very sweet street, a place where locals clearly go at all hours to meet friends, refuel and recharge. It reminds me of a New York side street deli; busy, warm but without the rather intimidating ‘hurry up’ of a NY eaterie. The staff work their socks off to keep it all moving and we could do with more places like Jak’s in London.