Savouring Liverpool: A Gastronomic Journey Through Its City Centre

Liverpool, a city of vibrant culture and rich history, is not only renowned for its music scene and football clubs but also for its diverse culinary landscape. Nestled within its bustling city centre are eateries that cater to every palate, from traditional British fare to international cuisines. 

Join me as we explore the best places to dine in Liverpool city centre, where each bite tells a story of culinary excellence and local flair.

The Art School Restaurant:

Located in the heart of Liverpool, The Art School Restaurant embodies elegance and sophistication. Helmed by renowned chef Paul Askew, this Michelin-listed establishment offers a contemporary take on British cuisine. Guests can indulge in meticulously crafted dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, all served in a stunning setting that seamlessly blends modernity with tradition. From sumptuous tasting menus to à la carte delights, The Art School promises an unforgettable dining experience. 

https://theartschoolrestaurant.co.uk/

Maray:

For those craving innovative small plates and vibrant flavours, Maray is the place to be. Situated on Bold Street, this hip eatery is celebrated for its inventive Middle Eastern-inspired dishes and relaxed ambiance. Whether you're sampling their famous halloumi fries or indulging in their flavorful mezze selection, each bite at Maray is a celebration of culinary creativity. Pair your meal with one of their signature cocktails for the ultimate dining experience.

https://maray.co.uk

Mowgli Street Food:

A culinary gem tucked away in Liverpool's bustling city centre, Mowgli Street Food takes diners on a journey through the vibrant streets of India. Inspired by the traditional 'dabba-walas' of Mumbai, this beloved eatery serves up a tantalizing array of Indian street food classics with a contemporary twist. From fragrant curries to crispy bhel puri, every dish at Mowgli is bursting with bold flavors and exotic spices. With its communal dining concept and lively atmosphere, Mowgli offers a dining experience that is as immersive as it is delicious.

https://www.mowglistreetfood.com

Wreckfish Bistro:

Housed in a beautifully restored Victorian building, Wreckfish Bistro exudes charm and character at every turn. Led by acclaimed chef Gary Usher, this award-winning restaurant showcases the best of British cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients and expertly executed dishes. From hearty mains to delicate desserts, each creation at Wreckfish reflects a commitment to quality and craftsmanship. With its welcoming ambiance and exceptional service, dining at Wreckfish Bistro is a true delight for the senses.

https://www.wreckfish.co

The London Carriage Works:

Situated within the elegant confines of the Hope Street Hotel, The London Carriage Works is a destination for refined dining in Liverpool city centre. Boasting a menu that celebrates the best of British produce, this esteemed restaurant offers a culinary experience that is both sophisticated and inviting. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely brunch or a decadent dinner, The London Carriage Works promises impeccable service and exquisite flavours that linger long after the meal is over.

https://www.hopestreethotel.co.uk/dining/thelondoncarriageworks

Liverpool's city centre is a treasure trove of culinary delights, where every street corner offers a new gastronomic adventure waiting to be savoured. Whether you're craving traditional British fare or international flavours, the eateries mentioned above are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. So, why not embark on a culinary journey through Liverpool's city centre and discover the vibrant tapestry of flavours that this iconic city has to offer? After all, good food is not just a meal – it's an experience to be shared and cherished.

(Image courtesy of Alan Wright from Pixabay)

The Art of Pairing Wines with Different Cuisines

When it comes to elevating a meal, there's nothing quite like the perfect wine pairing. From rich reds to crisp whites, the world of wine offers a myriad of options to complement and enhance the flavours of your favourite dishes. 

But mastering the art of pairing wines with different cuisines can seem like a daunting task. Fear not, for with a few simple guidelines, you can become a wine-pairing connoisseur in no time.

Understanding the Basics

Before we delve into specific pairings, it's essential to understand some basic principles of wine pairing. The goal is to create a harmonious balance between the flavours of the food and the characteristics of the wine. Here are a few key factors to consider:

1. Acidity: Wines with higher acidity can cut through rich or fatty foods, cleansing the palate with each sip. Think of crisp whites like Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling wines like Champagne.

2. Tannins: Found primarily in red wines, tannins can add structure and complexity to a dish. They pair well with fatty meats and hearty dishes, such as steak or roasted lamb.

3. Sweetness: Sweet wines can balance spicy or salty flavours in food, creating a delightful contrast. Consider pairing spicy Asian cuisine with a slightly sweet Riesling or Gewürztraminer.

4. Body: The body of a wine refers to its weight and texture, ranging from light to full-bodied. Lighter wines pair well with delicate dishes, while fuller-bodied wines complement richer, more robust flavours.

Pairing by Cuisine

Now that we've covered the basics, let's explore some classic wine pairings for different cuisines:

1. Italian Cuisine: Italian dishes are known for their bold flavours and rich sauces. Pair hearty pasta dishes like lasagna or spaghetti bolognese with a medium-bodied red wine such as Chianti or Sangiovese. For seafood risotto or light pasta dishes with cream-based sauces, opt for a crisp Pinot Grigio or Vermentino.

2. French Cuisine: French cuisine is all about elegance and finesse. For classic dishes like coq au vin or beef bourguignon, reach for a bottle of Burgundy or Bordeaux. For lighter fare like quiche or seafood, consider a refreshing Chablis or Sancerre.

3. Indian Cuisine: Indian cuisine is a tapestry of vibrant spices and bold flavours. Pair spicy curries with off-dry whites like Riesling or Gewürztraminer to balance the heat. For dishes with creamy sauces or tandoori meats, opt for a fruit-forward red wine such as Shiraz or Grenache.

4. Japanese Cuisine: Japanese cuisine is known for its delicate flavours and fresh ingredients. Pair sushi and sashimi with a crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light, fruity rosé. For richer dishes like teriyaki or tempura, consider a light-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais.

5. Mexican Cuisine: Mexican cuisine is a fiesta of bold spices and hearty flavours. Pair spicy dishes like tacos or enchiladas with a refreshing white wine like Albariño or Verdejo. For dishes with smoky flavours like barbacoa or mole, reach for a medium-bodied red wine such as Merlot or Malbec.

Experiment and Enjoy

Ultimately, the art of pairing wines with different cuisines is about experimentation and personal preference. Don't be afraid to try new combinations and trust your palate. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely meal at home or dining out at your favourite restaurant, let the flavours guide you on a culinary journey around the world. Cheers to the perfect pairing!

Savouring Love on a Budget: A Guide to Affordable Valentine's Day Dining

Valentine's Day, the day of love, is just around the corner. 

While many associate this romantic occasion with lavish dinners and extravagant gestures, it's entirely possible to celebrate without breaking the bank. 

This year, why not focus on the essence of togetherness and affection, rather than the price tag? In this guide, we'll explore creative ways to enjoy a delightful Valentine's Day eating and drinking experience on a budget.

Home-Cooked Delights:

There's nothing more intimate than preparing a meal together. Opting for a cozy night in allows you to control costs and create a unique dining experience. Select a simple yet delicious recipe that you both enjoy, and embark on a culinary adventure together. Not only does this save you money, it also adds a personal touch to your celebration.

Budget-Friendly Ingredients:

When planning your home-cooked meal, choose budget-friendly ingredients without compromising on flavour. Consider shopping for seasonal produce, which isn't only cost-effective but also fresher and more flavourful, too. Look for sales and discounts at your local shops and supermarkets to make the most of your budget.

DIY Decor and Ambiance:

Transform your home into a romantic haven without splurging on expensive decorations. Create a cozy ambiance with soft lighting, candles, (LED candles are safer) and maybe even a homemade playlist of your favorite love songs? Handwritten notes or small, thoughtful gestures can go a long way in making the evening special.

Wine on a Budget:

A romantic dinner isn't complete without a good bottle of wine. Instead of opting for high-end labels, explore more affordable options that still offer excellent quality. Many supermarkets carry hidden gems at reasonable prices. Check out Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrison's, Aldi, Lidl and Booths for some modestly priced but excellent wine. Own brand Propseco can be low in price but high in taste.

 Alternatively, consider a homemade cocktail or mocktail to add a personal touch to your beverage selection. 

Explore Budget-Friendly Dining Options:

If the idea of cooking at home isn't appealing, explore budget-friendly dining options in your area. Many restaurants offer special Valentine's Day menus or discounts on this occasion. Look for local deals, set menus, or prix-fixe options that won't burn a hole in your pocket. Wetherspoon and Hungry Horse are two good examples.

Daytime Adventures:

Consider celebrating Valentine's Day during the daytime to take advantage of lunch specials and matinee prices. A brunch date or picnic in the park can be just as romantic as a dinner date, and it often comes with a more budget-friendly price tag.

Gifts from the Heart:

Shift the focus from expensive gifts to thoughtful gestures. Create a handmade card, write a heartfelt letter, or put together a scrapbook of your favorite memories together. These gestures are not only more meaningful but are also budget-friendly.

This Valentine's Day, embrace the joy of love without the burden of overspending. Whether you choose to cook together, dine out on a budget, or opt for daytime adventures, remember that it's the thought and effort that truly make the day special. 

By being creative and mindful of your budget, you can create lasting memories without sacrificing the romance. Cheers to a love-filled and budget-friendly Valentine's Day!

(Image courtesy of Pexels from Pixabay)

Exploring Culinary Delights: The Art of Tasting Menus

What, exactly, is a tasting menu? Embarking on a culinary journey is often a real feast for the senses, and one exceptional way to indulge in this experience is through a tasting menu. 

Tasting menus have become a hallmark of fine dining, offering a carefully curated selection of dishes that showcase the chef's creativity, skill, and the restaurant's culinary philosophy.

In this blog post, we will delve into the world of tasting menus, exploring what they are, their history, and why they have become a cherished dining experience for food enthusiasts around the globe.

What is a Tasting Menu?

A tasting menu, also sometimes referred to as a degustation menu, is a curated selection of smaller, artfully crafted dishes served in succession. Unlike traditional à la carte dining, where diners choose individual dishes from a menu, a tasting menu offers a fixed sequence of courses chosen by the chef. Each course is typically a small portion, allowing diners to savor a variety of flavors, textures, and techniques in a single meal.

The Structure of a Tasting Menu:

Tasting menus typically consist of multiple courses, ranging from four to upwards of twenty or more, depending on the restaurant and the occasion. The courses progress in a deliberate order, guiding diners through a culinary narrative. The structure often includes:

Amuse-bouche (Amuse-gueule): A small, bite-sized appetiser that sets the tone for the meal, awakening the palate with a burst of flavour.

Appetisers: Light and delicate dishes that pave the way for more complex flavors to come.

Seafood Course: A showcase of the chef's skill with seafood, featuring dishes like ceviche, sashimi, or other ocean-inspired creations.

Meat Courses: Progressing from lighter meats to heavier ones, this section may include poultry, game, or beef dishes.

Palette Cleanser: A sorbet or other refreshing element to cleanse the palate before moving on to the next set of flavours.

Cheese Course: An array of cheeses, often curated to complement each other, served with accompaniments such as nuts, fruits, and honey.

Desserts: A sweet conclusion to the meal, showcasing the pastry chef's talents and creativity.

History of Tasting Menus:

The concept of tasting menus has its roots in French cuisine, where the term "degustation" means tasting. French chefs have long been known for their dedication to culinary excellence, and the tasting menu emerged as a way for them to showcase a wide range of flavours and techniques in a single sitting. Over time, this culinary tradition has spread globally, with chefs from various cultures putting their own unique spin on the concept.

Why Tasting Menus?

Tasting menus offer a myriad of benefits to both chefs and diners. For chefs, it provides an opportunity to express their creativity, experiment with new ingredients, and showcase their culinary prowess. It also allows them to guide diners through a carefully crafted narrative, telling a story with each course.

Diners, on the other hand, benefit from the wonderful opportunity to explore a diverse range of flavours in a single meal. Tasting menus provide a unique dining experience, often featuring ingredients and techniques that might not be part of a regular à la carte menu. It's a chance for food enthusiasts to surrender their taste buds to the chef's expertise and experience a symphony of flavours.

In the world of gastronomy, tasting menus stand as a testament to the artistry and innovation that chefs bring to the table. As diners increasingly seek immersive and memorable dining experiences, tasting menus continue to thrive, offering a culinary adventure that transcends the boundaries of traditional dining. So, the next time you find yourself at a fine dining establishment, consider surrendering your menu choices to the chef and embarking on a journey through the tantalising world of a tasting menu.

(Image courtesy of Rick Bella from Pixabay)

Savour Scandi flavours with Food by National Geographic Traveller (UK)

This autumn, Food by National Geographic Traveller (UK) will be exploring Scandinavia, celebrating some of the best culinary experiences Norway, Sweden and Denmark have to offer.

From Copenhagen’s vegan offerings to seafood in the Norwegian fjords, they sample the best of a region where simple ingredients have always gone a long way, plus where both traditional recipes and modern menus draw on nature’s bounty, be it forest-foraged mushrooms and berries, local fish, wild game or a rainbow of delicious seasonal vegetables.

Glen Mutel, who is the editor of Food, said: “It may be a bit of a cliché, but Scandinavians have a reputation for their quality of life. Our cover story adds fresh fuel to this notion, providing a dazzling culinary snapshot of a region that’s surely on every food-lover’s must-visit list.”

Also in this issue, they follow the chowder trail in Nova Scotia; enjoy a family meal in Buenos Aires; and explore the historic chocolate shops of Turin. All this, plus the highlights of Berlin, São Paulo and the French region of Savoy.

In addition, readers can expect the usual mix of thought-provoking features and easy-to-follow recipes from world-renowned contributors.

Don’t miss:

• Deconstruct: Moussaka — the lowdown on the layered Greek classic

• My Life in Food: Broadcaster Nick Grimshaw on the joys of a chippy and his new food podcast

• Try it Now: How king oyster mushrooms have become the meat substitute of the moment

• Five Ways With: Get the best out of Jerusalem artichokes

• Recipe Journal: Four soups from around the world

• Make Perfect: Tips for mastering wiener schnitzel

• The Pioneer: Ecuadorian chef Rodrigo Pacheco on the importance of using native ingredients

26-PAGE DIGITAL EZINE SAMPLE https://magazine.natgeotraveller.co.uk/food-sept23/

Issue 21

On sale now

Price: £5.10

Website: nationalgeographic.com/travel

Find them on Facebook: facebook.com/NatGeoTravelUK

Twitter: twitter.com/NatGeoTravelUK

Super Club revolution? That's Social Republic!

There’s a buzz brewing on the supper club scene, and it’s set to revolutionise group dining!

Social Republic (http://www.socialrepublic.net) is for anyone who loves getting people together and entertaining over food, and for people who want to share the pleasures of dining.

It’s a fact that supper clubs have been around for a long time but traditionally they can be rigid with membership and expensive to join, plus they tend to diffuse the buzz created when new faces get to know each other over food because it’s the same private members who turn up every time.

That’s where Social Republic is different. When founder David Chapple recognised a lack of choice preventing people enjoying the true benefits of group dining, he took action. He says: “I wanted to create a global network of supper clubs where people enjoy choice and hosts have a greater pool of interested people to bring together for events. In other words, something very far removed from the rigidity of some introductions agencies.”

So much more than a What’s on Guide
Unlike some other dining events websites, Social Republic isn’t just a ‘what’s on’ guide to dining events or a general directory of supper clubs. It’s a whole networking platform for bringing hosts and guests together, face to face, with a focus on great food.

Social Republic members also have access to pop-up and underground restaurants and the home dining scene and restaurateurs and caterers wishing to boost their income or fill tables on quiet nights are fully supported in organising events and promoting them to members.

Something for Everyone
Whether looking to forge new friendships, seeking a love interest, networking for business or simply wishing to fulfil a desire for sharing the joys of good food whilst indulging in new company, members can find a perfect event on Social Republic. And the beauty is, if they want to make it their own, they can become a host and organise their own events.

David Chapple says: “We fully support our hosts. They can promote their events on our website and social media, share tips and receive support on our Facebook page and use our sales material. They can also take advance payments through our website.”

Charity Support for Global Angels
Social Republic is free to join for members and hosts and when a member pays for their meal in advance on the site, they also buy a meal for someone else in the world who needs it because Social Republic has teamed up with Global Angels (http://www.globalangels.org/), who put members’ donations in their entirety towards feeding people, and sometimes schooling them too.

Registration is free and takes just a few minutes. Visit http://www.socialrepublic.net/register.

More discount dining from Discountvouchers.co.uk

Online retail voucher codes specialist DiscountVouchers.co.uk is helping diners enjoy more eating out for their budget over the autumn through new restaurant deals. UK consumers can save money at more than 800 retailers through DiscountVouchers.co.uk and this week the site is home to savings at top restaurants Burger King, Pizza Hut and Prezzo.

Treating a partner to an Italian meal out this autumn need not cost the earth thanks to new deals redeemable at top diner Prezzo. DiscountVouchers.co.uk has published new Prezzo vouchers which UK consumers can use to get themselves 2 courses and a drink for £11.95 or 3 courses and a drink for £13.95.

All the UK's most popular restaurants feature at all times on the DiscountVouchers.co.uk website, and one of the country's favourite burger joints is on show now in the shape of Burger King. Logging onto DiscountVouchers.co.uk right now allows consumers to get new Burger King vouchers which can be exchanged for 2 for 1 on selected burgers and the Double Cheeseburger King Deal just £3.49.

Another of the country's most popular family restaurants to feature in the new autumn dining deals on DiscountVouchers.co.uk is Pizza Hut. Diners can look forward to taking the kids out to enjoy pizza and pasta on a budget thanks to new Pizza Hut vouchers offering 'eat for just £5 at Pizza Hut' plus also Kids Eat free and free unlimited salad.

Doug Scott, managing director at DiscountVouchers.co.uk, comments, “Because we review and update our deals all the time we can always offer people the latest money-saving offers for top restaurants. With these new deals for Prezzo, Burger King and Pizza Hut, UK diners can look forward to eating out on a budget this autumn."

DiscountVouchers.co.uk offers consumers money saving deals at major high street brands and specialist retailers, including stores like Tesco, Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury’s, Travelodge, First Choice, lastminute.com and Boden.

For details visit www.discountvouchers.co.uk

Mint Hotel Creates The 45-Minute Lunch Hour for a Tenner!

Mint Hotel, the award-winning city-centre hotel brand, is celebrating summer in novel style by launching a 45-minute express lunch, available from just £10 per person, across the group’s City Café restaurants.

For that amazing price guests get to enjoy two-courses from the restaurant’s Market Menu coupled with a drink, including any house wine, spirit and mixer, beer or soft drink – all of which the group pledges to serve within 45 minutes.

The £10 ‘Fresh this Summer’ offer is available in City Café restaurants at Mint Hotel Glasgow, Mint Hotel Birmingham, Mint Hotel Bristol, Mint Hotel Leeds and Mint Hotel Manchester. In London, the offer is priced at £10.95 at Mint Hotel Westminster and £12.50 at the new Mint Hotel Tower of London. At Mint Hotel Amsterdam, which opened its doors in June, the express lunch offer is priced at just €15.00.

Guests choosing the ‘Fresh this Summer’ offer will also be handed a City Café loyalty card, entitling them to receive a complimentary two-course lunch (exclusive of drinks), after five return visits to the restaurants – a great excuse to keep coming back. What’s more, the loyalty card can be used through across all City Café restaurants in the Mint Hotel group, and lasts until 30 March 2012.

The fantastic lunch offers are available between 12–1 pm weekdays, and 12.30–3pm on Saturdays, with the promotion lasting until 3 September 2011.

City Café offers diners a modern European cuisine experience with the Market Menu focusing on locally sourced, seasonal produce, all created under the careful guidance of group executive chef Scott Macdonald. Summer dishes in the offer include breast of chicken with roast pumpkin, curly kale and caper jus, or fillet of mackerel, steamed bok choi, spring onion, red watercress, grapefruit and ginger reduction. As City Café’s Market Menus change weekly, regular diners can expect new dishes based on the freshest seasonal, regional ingredients throughout the summer.

The offer guarantees that guests will be wined and dined within a 45-minute time window – ideal for busy city workers, locals and visitors wishing to sample the delicious cuisine of City Café. Mint’s 45-minute pledge does not apply to diners who wish to add a third course to their meal, available for an additional £3.

Mint Hotels is dedicated to creating fresh, contemporary hotels thoughtfully designed to blend with each property’s cityscape. The group has eight properties - seven in the UK and its first international location in Amsterdam. People are put at the heart of each Mint hotel, with the customer truly coming first and Mint’s staff empowered to deliver memorable service.

Please visit www.minthotel.com/freshsummer for further information.


(EDITOR: Right! The That's Food and Drink team know where WE are going to be dining when we next visit the big city!)

Eat out for less this month with DiscountVouchers.co.uk

DiscountVouchers.co.uk, the online provider home to money-saving deals for over 800 ltop restaurants and retailers, has introduced new deals to help UK diners enjoy eating out on a budget in June. The website is giving people money-saving deals at the Gourmet Burger Kitchen, Prezzo and Cafe Rouge.

DiscountVouchers.co.uk often gives deals to UK consumers to help them save at top restaurants, at the moment of the top names is famed Italian diner Prezzo. The latest choice of DiscountVouchers.co.uk offers available online includes a Prezzo voucher for getting 2 main meals for just £12 - ideal for enjoying some value for money pasta and pizza.

Gourmet standard beefburgers can be had without having to spend a fortune this month! That's thanks to the new choice of offers. One of the most popular places to eat out on the UK high street, the Gourmet Burger Kitchen is offering savings due to a new Gourmet Burger Kitchen voucher which allows diners to eat any burger for £5.95.

But it's not just burgers and pasta. Fantastic French dining can be yours on a budget too in the ever-popular Cafe Rouge. Deals available via DiscountVouchers.co.uk includes Café Rouge vouchers where you'll be able to munch through 2 main meals for the price of 1. And that sounds like a great deal!

Claire Hayes, spokeswoman for DiscountVouchers.co.uk, says: “Our mission is to help you save money at as many retailers and restaurants as possible. We're pleased to be able to help people save!"

And as well as the ability to much lunch at a discount, they also offer consumers money saving deals with top high street brands and specialist retailers, and holiday firms and hotels.

For details on how you can start cutting down on your spending without imapcting your lifestyle, visit www.discountvouchers.co.uk

Online retails codes site serves up newly-sourced deals to help people save money when eating out

Enjoy Italian and Spanish food throughout the rest of May and all of June and save money! How? Because DiscountVouchers.co.uk has announced some new deals that will help people save money at restaurant chains including Wildwood, Ask and La Tasca.

Since its launch Ask has become one of the country's top Italian eateries with branches throughout the land serving pizza and pasta to families and couples. The latest DiscountVouchers.co.uk deals introduced this week include new Ask Restaurant deals like 2 for the price of 1 on main courses to help people save money. Which is always a good thing!

Another popular diner to be saved at via DiscountVouchers.co.uk is Wildwood Restaurant. The restaurant is aimed at both couples and families and right now diners can log on to the DiscountVouchers.co.uk website and get hold of a free freshly-made Italian food starter with every main course.

Tapas and paella can also be enjoyed on a budget in May and June thanks to the new DiscountVouchers.co.uk dining out deals. A new choice of La Tasca vouchers is available on the money-saving website to help people enjoy 3 tapas for just £7 on Mondays or dinner for 2 for only £12 (subject to terms and conditions) at the popular Spanish restaurant.

Claire Hayes, spokeswoman for DiscountVouchers.co.uk, points out: “We're delighted to bring some new great value dining out deals to our site users right now. Leading name Mediterranean-themed restaurants like Ask, Wildwood and La Tasca are ideal places to go to enjoy a private, romantic meal or a group night out.”

DiscountVouchers.co.uk offers consumers money saving deals at major high street brands and specialist retailers, includingTesco, Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury’s, Travelodge, First Choice, lastminute.com and Boden.

For more information visit www.discountvouchers.co.uk