A Taste of Winchester Ends with Spectacular Community Feast and Canapé Winner

A Taste of Winchester concluded with a six-course Community Long Lazy Lunch and crowned the winner of its inaugural Canapé Competition, celebrating Hampshire's finest food and drink.

Winchester's thriving food and drink scene has once again taken centre stage as A Taste of Winchester came to a memorable close with a spectacular Community Long Lazy Lunch in the heart of the city.

Held in The Square under glorious summer sunshine, the finale brought together 250 diners for an unforgettable six-course feast served at one long communal table stretching the length of the square. It marked the perfect ending to two weeks of celebrations showcasing the incredible restaurants, chefs, producers and hospitality businesses that make Winchester such a fantastic destination for food lovers.

Organised by Winchester BID, food and drink PR Miranda Rocksmith and a volunteer steering committee of local hospitality businesses, with sponsorship from Dutton Gregory, the festival highlighted not only exceptional food but also the collaborative spirit of the city's hospitality community.

For the grand finale, chefs from Bar Lento, Rick Stein Winchester and St James Tavern joined forces in a remarkable display of teamwork. Working as one kitchen in challenging summer heat, they created six beautifully crafted courses featuring ingredients sourced from Hampshire alongside flavours inspired by Southern Spain. Judging by the empty plates and smiling faces, every dish was a resounding success.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, guests enjoyed live performances from Winchester Acapella and Winchester Uke Jam, creating a relaxed afternoon that celebrated great food, music and community in equal measure.

The festival also introduced its first-ever Canapé Competition, encouraging local chefs to create an original canapé showcasing Isle of Wight tomatoes. Visitors sampled the creations throughout the fortnight before casting their votes.

Taking the inaugural title was St James Tavern, whose Isle of Wight tomato arancini with home-smoked duck and Isle of Wight tomato caviar proved the clear public favourite.

Second place went to Winchester Hotel & Spa for its elegant combination of marinated Isle of Wight tomatoes, whipped Rosary goats' cheese, basil oil, micro coriander and rye cracker, while MIXA (formerly YiasYias) claimed third with its Isle of Wight heritage tomato and soy-cured tuna served on a crisp nori cracker.

Dr Paul Spencer, Executive Director of Winchester BID, described the finale as everything organisers had hoped for, praising the collaboration between the participating restaurants and noting that guests were already asking when the next festival would take place before the event had even finished.

Sarah Strangeway of Bar Lento echoed those sentiments, saying the event perfectly demonstrated what Winchester's hospitality businesses can achieve when they work together.

Meanwhile, St James Tavern's James Bennett thanked everyone who voted in the competition, saying the award was a wonderful celebration of local produce and the creativity of Winchester's chefs.

If this year's event is anything to go by, A Taste of Winchester has firmly established itself as one of Hampshire's most delicious annual celebrations, leaving diners eagerly awaiting next year's menu.

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American Flavours Win Over British Taste Buds as Bourbon and BBQs Grow in Popularity

The FIFA World Cup may be taking place in the United States, but it appears the tournament is influencing more than just football fans. 

New research from Buffalo Trace Distillery suggests that British consumers are increasingly embracing American food, drink and culture, with bourbon and authentic American barbecue becoming particularly popular this summer.

According to the survey, 38% of Britons say they have become more interested in American culture since the World Cup began, while a further 26% already considered themselves fans before the tournament kicked off.

That growing enthusiasm is making its way onto the barbecue menu. While the traditional British barbecue remains a firm favourite for 38% of people, almost a quarter (23%) say they would now choose an American-style barbecue instead. Think slow-cooked brisket, smoky ribs, pulled pork and bold flavours replacing the familiar burgers and sausages.

The research also highlights changing drinking habits. Around one in six people (16%) say they are choosing American bourbon instead of more traditional European spirits, while nearly a third (30%) now view bourbon as an ideal drink for summer entertaining.

Buffalo Trace believes the trend reflects a growing appreciation for authentic American whiskey in the UK. Produced on the banks of the Kentucky River, Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon is known for its smooth vanilla and caramel notes and is aged longer than many mainstream bourbons to develop its distinctive flavour.

Whether served neat as the sun sets, mixed with ginger ale for a refreshing summer drink or used in classic cocktails such as a Manhattan, bourbon is increasingly becoming part of Britain's outdoor dining culture.

Lorenzo Farronato, European Marketing Director at Buffalo Trace, said it was encouraging to see more people discovering bourbon as part of relaxed summer occasions.

He explained to That's Food and Drink that the distillery has always focused on producing high-quality American whiskey, adding that many people who try bourbon quickly develop an appreciation for its unique character and versatility.

The popularity of American whiskey is also reflected by the opening of Buffalo Trace Distillery London in Covent Garden, where visitors can take guided tastings and learn more about the history and craftsmanship behind Kentucky bourbon.

With the United States preparing to celebrate its 250th anniversary, American food and drink appear to be enjoying a moment in the spotlight. Whether it's slow-smoked barbecue, classic cocktails or a simple bourbon and ginger, British consumers seem increasingly happy to add a taste of Kentucky to their summer celebrations.

Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon is available from major UK supermarkets with a recommended retail price of around £29.50. Obviously, we should all remember to drink responsibly.

The Great Strawberry Taste Test: Why Cheaper Can Sometimes Be Better

We've all heard the saying, "You get what you pay for." Most of the time, there's some truth in it. 

Spend a little more and you often expect better quality, better flavour and a better overall experience.

But every now and then, reality has other ideas.

This week I bought two punnets of strawberries from two very different supermarkets. 

One came from a well-known premium supermarket with a reputation for quality. The other came from one of the UK's popular cheap but cheerful discount supermarkets.

If I'd been asked to guess which would be the better buy before tasting them, I would have confidently chosen the expensive ones.

And I would have been completely wrong.

The premium strawberries looked attractive enough, but biting into them was a real disappointment. They were firm to the point of being hard, lacked the juicy sweetness that makes strawberries such a summer favourite, and had an unexpectedly and jarring bitter flavour. They weren't unpleasant enough to throw away, but they certainly weren't all that enjoyable.

Then came the discount supermarket strawberries, which I bought the next day on a whim. (The purpose of the trip was to buy some unsalted rice cakes for our parrot.)

Costing around half the price, these strawberries couldn't have been more different. They were beautifully ripe, wonderfully soft without being mushy, packed with juice and bursting with natural sweetness. Every strawberry tasted like summer should taste.

It was a reminder price isn't always the best indicator of quality.

There are plenty of reasons why this can happen. Strawberries are highly seasonal and incredibly delicate. They don't continue to sweeten after being picked, so timing is everything. Fruit harvested slightly too early may survive transport and last longer on the shelf, but it may never develop the rich sweetness that customers expect.

Meanwhile, another retailer may receive fruit picked closer to peak ripeness, even if it has a slightly shorter shelf life. The result? Better flavour at a lower price.

Storage also plays an important part. Strawberries kept too cold can lose some of their aroma, while poor handling during transport can affect texture and taste.

The lesson for shoppers is simple: don't judge strawberries solely by their price or the name above the supermarket door.

Instead, look carefully at the fruit itself. Bright, fresh green leaves are a good sign. The berries should be evenly coloured with no white shoulders, and there should be little or no juice collecting in the bottom of the punnet, which can indicate damaged or overripe fruit. Most importantly, buy them when you plan to enjoy them within a day or two for the very best flavour.

Sometimes you'll find exceptional strawberries in a premium food hall. Sometimes you'll discover a bargain that tastes even better in a discount store.

This week's shopping trips reminded me that good food isn't always about spending more. Sometimes it's simply about finding the retailer that has sourced the very best produce that week.

So next time someone tells you, "You get what you pay for," just smile... and offer them one of your delicious bargain strawberries. If you have any left, that is!

Easy White Chocolate Rocky Road Recipe Using Aldi or Lidl White Chocolate

Make this delicious no-bake White Chocolate Rocky Road using Aldi or Lidl own-brand white chocolate, caramelised biscuits and mixed nuts. A simple, affordable dessert that's perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.

An indulgent no-bake treat that proves supermarket own brands can be every bit as delicious in your dessert making.

Sometimes the simplest recipes are the most satisfying, and this White Chocolate Rocky Road is a perfect example. 

Made with Aldi or Lidl own-brand white chocolate, layers of crunchy chopped mixed nuts and crushed caramelised biscuits, it's rich, creamy, wonderfully crunchy and incredibly easy to make. 

You can use other smooth white chocolates if you don't have a Lidl or Aldi near to your home.

One of the biggest surprises when I made this recipe was just how well the supermarket own-brand white chocolate performed. It melted beautifully using a simple double boiler, creating a silky smooth mixture that set perfectly in the fridge without any fuss.

The caramelised biscuits add a deep, buttery flavour that balances the sweetness of the white chocolate, while the mixed nuts provide plenty of texture and bite. Every mouthful offers something slightly different.

Best of all, there's no baking involved.

Ingredients

500g Aldi or Lidl own-brand white chocolate

250g caramelised biscuits (Biscoff-style), roughly crushed

150g chopped mixed nuts (almonds, hazelnuts, pecans, walnuts or a mixture)

200ml double cream

50g butter

1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Pinch of sea salt (optional)

For the topping

Extra crushed caramelised biscuits

A handful of chopped mixed nuts

Equipment

Medium saucepan

Heatproof bowl (for a double boiler) or a double boiler

Wooden spoon or silicone spatula

20cm square or round baking tin

Baking parchment

Method

1. Prepare your tin

Line your baking tin with baking parchment, leaving enough overhang to lift the finished rocky road out easily.

2. Melt the chocolate

Bring a saucepan of water to a gentle simmer.

Place the white chocolate, butter and double cream into a heatproof bowl sitting above the water, making sure the bottom of the bowl doesn't touch the water.

Stir gently until everything has melted into a smooth, glossy mixture.

Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract if using.

3. Build the layers

Spread a thin layer of the white chocolate mixture into the base of the tin.

Scatter over:

a layer of crushed caramelised biscuits

a layer of chopped mixed nuts

Cover with more white chocolate.

Repeat the layers until you've used all the ingredients, finishing with a smooth layer of white chocolate on top.

Sprinkle generously with extra crushed biscuits and chopped nuts.

4. Chill

Place in the refrigerator for at least 3-4 hours, preferably overnight, until completely firm.

5. Slice

Lift from the tin using the baking parchment and cut into generous squares with a sharp knife.

Tips for Success

Keep the water gently simmering rather than boiling when melting the chocolate.

Stir continuously to prevent the white chocolate overheating.

Use good-quality own-brand white chocolate from Aldi or Lidl for excellent results without the premium price.

Chill overnight for the cleanest slices.

Warm your knife in hot water and wipe dry before each cut for bakery-quality portions.

Variations

Once you've mastered the basic recipe, it's easy to experiment.

Try adding:

mini marshmallows

dried cranberries

raisins

chopped glacé cherries

toffee pieces

honeycomb chunks

orange zest

a sprinkle of cinnamon

Or add Christmas spices and pieces of candied ginger to make an absolutely show stopping Christmas sweet treat. 

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

It can also be frozen for up to three months. Simply thaw in the fridge before serving.

This recipe proves you don't need expensive ingredients to create an impressive dessert. Aldi and Lidl's own-brand white chocolate melts beautifully, while the combination of caramelised biscuits and mixed nuts creates layers of flavour and texture that make every bite irresistible.

It's perfect with a mug of tea or coffee, makes a wonderful homemade gift, and is guaranteed to disappear quickly whenever family or friends come to visit.

The Best Discoveries Are Sometimes Accidents: How We Created a Surprisingly Delicious Guinness and Coke Zero Cocktail

Some of the world's favourite foods and drinks were discovered completely by accident. 

From chocolate chip cookies to potato crisps, happy mistakes have often turned into much-loved classics.

Well, we've had our own little accidental discovery.

It happened during what should have been a perfectly ordinary evening. 

We had poured a pint of Guinness into a glass and, while reaching for another drink, someone accidentally poured Coke Zero into it as well.

For a split second there was that feeling of horror. Had we just ruined a perfectly good pint of Guinness?

Rather than pouring it away, curiosity got the better of us.

We took a cautious sip.

What followed was one of those genuinely surprising moments when your expectations are completely overturned. Instead of an unpleasant mixture, the result was incredibly smooth, light and refreshing.

The Coke Zero lifted the richness of the Guinness without overwhelming its distinctive roasted malt character. The familiar coffee and chocolate notes of the stout were still there, but the cola added a gentle sweetness and lively fizz that made the drink feel lighter and remarkably easy to enjoy.

It reminded us that some of the best flavour combinations come from experimenting rather than following a recipe.

Guinness has long been used in cooking, desserts and even cocktails, so perhaps it shouldn't be such a surprise that it pairs well with cola. Coke Zero, with its clean taste and lack of sugar, doesn't make the drink feel overly sweet, allowing the stout's character to remain centre stage.

After a little experimentation, we found a blend of around three parts Guinness to one part Coke Zero worked particularly well, although there's certainly room to adjust the proportions to suit your own taste.

It's not trying to replace a traditional pint of Guinness. Sometimes you simply want that classic creamy stout exactly as it is. But on a warm summer's evening, or when you're looking for something a little different, this accidental creation offers a surprisingly refreshing alternative.

Of course, every great invention starts with someone willing to try something unexpected. Whether this little discovery ever becomes a recognised cocktail is anyone's guess, but it certainly earned a place on our list of drinks we'll happily make again.

So next time you find yourself with a pint of Guinness and a bottle of Coke Zero nearby, don't dismiss the idea too quickly. What began as an accident in our kitchen has turned into one of the most unexpectedly enjoyable drinks we've tasted in a long time.

Sometimes the happiest accidents really do happen in a glass.

Have you ever stumbled across an amazing food or drink combination completely by accident? We'd love to hear about your own unexpected culinary discoveries in the comments below!

Why Every Food Business Should Require Recognised Food Safety Qualifications for Employees, Staff

Discover why recognised food safety and hygiene qualifications are essential for every food business, protecting customers, staff and business reputations.

Whether you're grabbing a sandwich from a café, enjoying a meal in your favourite restaurant or picking up a cake from a local bakery, or grabbing fish and chips after a hard day's work, you expect one thing above everything else, that the food you're buying is safe to eat.

Behind every successful food business should be a team that understands food safety, hygiene and their legal responsibilities. That's why recognised food safety qualifications shouldn't be viewed as an optional extra. They should be a basic requirement for everyone involved in preparing, handling or serving food.

Food poisoning affects millions of people every year. While many cases are mild, some can lead to serious illness, lengthy hospital stays and, tragically, even death. The vast majority of these incidents are entirely preventable through good food hygiene practices.

Proper training teaches staff far more than simply washing their hands. Recognised food safety courses cover essential topics including preventing cross-contamination, safe food storage temperatures, cooking and reheating procedures, allergen awareness, cleaning and sanitising equipment, pest prevention and maintaining accurate food safety records.

These are practical skills that help protect customers every single day.

Food allergies make training even more important. A simple mistake, such as using the wrong utensil or failing to understand ingredient information, could expose someone to an allergen with potentially life-threatening consequences. 

Well-trained staff are far more likely to ask the right questions, understand allergen controls and follow established procedures.

For business owners, investing in staff training is also good business sense. Environmental Health Officers expect food handlers to have appropriate knowledge of food hygiene. 

During inspections, evidence of staff training demonstrates that a business takes its responsibilities seriously and is committed to maintaining high standards.

Training also boosts confidence among employees. Staff who understand why procedures exist are more likely to follow them consistently rather than seeing them as unnecessary rules. This creates a stronger food safety culture where everyone feels responsible for protecting customers.

Customers notice professionalism too. Clean premises, knowledgeable staff and confidence when answering questions about ingredients or allergens all help build trust. In an increasingly competitive hospitality industry, reputation is everything.

It's worth remembering that recognised food safety qualifications are available at different levels, allowing businesses to match training to each employee's responsibilities. Kitchen assistants, chefs, supervisors and managers can all undertake courses appropriate to their roles, ensuring everyone has the knowledge they need.

Food businesses work incredibly hard to earn their customers' trust. That trust can take years to build but only moments to lose.

Investing in recognised food safety and hygiene qualifications is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect customers, support staff and safeguard a business's reputation. Safe food isn't just good practice, it's the foundation upon which every successful food business should be built.

The following resources will, we feel, be of benefit to you:-

https://sofht.co.uk

https://essentialfoodhygiene.co.uk

https://www.virtual-college.co.uk

https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/food-standards-agency

https://careskillsacademy.co.uk

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Bunta Beer: The Inspirational Story Behind the UK's First Non-Alcoholic Indian Craft Beer

Discover how former Adidas executive Gunikka Ahuja left a six-figure career to create Bunta Beer, the UK's first non-alcoholic Indian craft beer designed to perfectly complement Indian cuisine.

Sometimes the biggest business success stories begin with a simple conversation.

For Gunikka Ahuja, it started when she mentioned to her brother she was thinking of walking away from a six-figure career with Adidas to launch a beer company. His response was short, but unforgettable:

"Our food deserves better."

Those four words became the inspiration behind Bunta Beer, now recognised as the UK's first non-alcoholic Indian craft beer created specifically to complement Indian cuisine.

Growing up in New Delhi, food was always at the heart of family life for Gunikka. Sunday biryanis, celebrations and gatherings around the table created lasting memories where food represented culture, tradition and connection. Beer was often present too, but it never seemed to enjoy the same thoughtful relationship with the meal itself.

After moving to Los Angeles to study textile technology and later building a successful innovation career with Adidas, regular visits to her brother in London introduced her to Britain's much-loved tradition of enjoying a curry with a pint.

Yet something didn't feel right.

While Indian cuisine in the UK had evolved dramatically, the beers traditionally served alongside it had not. 

Many were heavy, overly bitter and excessively fizzy, often overpowering rather than enhancing the complex flavours on the plate.

Rather than accepting that as simply "the way things are", Gunikka saw an opportunity.

Leaving behind a career worth more than $100,000 a year was undoubtedly a leap of faith, but it allowed her to pursue a vision built around flavour, innovation and cultural pride. After more than 50 recipe iterations, she developed Bunta's flagship Citrus Lager, a light, refreshing, alcohol-free beer featuring delicate orange peel and coriander seed, ingredients that naturally echo many of the flavours found in Indian cooking.

The results speak for themselves.

Since launching in 2025, Bunta Beer has expanded into more than 40 restaurants across the UK, introduced draught beer, built a thriving direct-to-consumer business and earned a prestigious Gold award at the 2026 London Beer Competition. At just 60 calories per can, it is also vegan and gluten-free (containing less than 20ppm gluten). https://londonbeercompetition.com/en/competition-global-results/2026/

For lovers of Indian food, it's an exciting reminder that great food deserves equally thoughtful drinks.

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Gunikka's journey offers an equally powerful lesson: sometimes the best opportunities come not from following a well-trodden career path, but from spotting something everyone else has overlooked. 

When passion, culture and innovation come together, remarkable things can happen, and occasionally, they arrive in a beautifully crafted pint.

To learn about Bunta Beer please visit them at https://www.buntabeer.com

If you want to discuss stocking Bunta Beer info@buntabeer.co.uk 

Fudge Kitchen Opens in Chester This August – Fresh Handmade Fudge Near Chester Station

Fudge Kitchen is opening a brand-new shop in Chester this August, bringing live fudge-making, artisan treats and sustainable craftsmanship to Watergate Street, just a short walk from Chester railway station.

If there's one thing that can tempt us away from our usual wander around the historic streets of Chester, it's the unmistakable aroma of freshly made fudge.

That's why we're delighted to hear that Fudge Kitchen is opening a brand-new shop at 6-8 Watergate Street this August, its first new store in nearly a decade. Even better, it's only a pleasant stroll from Chester railway station, making it an irresistible first stop (or last stop!) for anyone arriving by train.

My wife and I are already making plans. The next time we're visiting Chester, there will definitely be a detour for a generous helping of delicious handcrafted fudge before we explore the city. Some treats are simply too good to resist!

For over 40 years, Fudge Kitchen has built a loyal following by doing things the traditional way. The proper way.

Rather than simply selling confectionery, each shop offers a theatrical experience, with skilled fudge makers preparing fresh batches throughout the day. Visitors can watch the craftsmanship, enjoy samples and discover just how much care goes into every creamy slice.

The new Chester shop joins the company's much-loved locations in Bath, Canterbury, Cambridge, Edinburgh, Windsor and York, bringing another fantastic foodie attraction to one of Britain's most beautiful historic cities.

There's another reason to celebrate too. The Chester store will be the first Fudge Kitchen location powered entirely by renewable electricity, using electric cooking equipment as part of the employee-owned company's ongoing commitment to sustainability. 

Since becoming employee-owned in 2022, the business has continued to champion responsible sourcing, zero-waste fudge making and environmentally conscious packaging.

Retail Director Ian McCluskey told That's Food and Drink that Chester's rich history, thriving visitor economy and independent shopping scene make it the perfect home for the latest Fudge Kitchen adventure, and it's easy to see why.

Chester is already packed with wonderful cafés, restaurants, independent shops and attractions, and this colourful new addition looks set to become another must-visit destination.

Whether you're visiting for a day out, shopping, sightseeing or simply looking for something delicious to take home, Fudge Kitchen promises an experience that's every bit as enjoyable as the fudge itself.

As for us? We suspect our next Chester trip will begin with "We'll just pop in for a sample..." and end with a rather heavier bag than we planned!

If you're planning a visit to Chester later this year, be sure to leave room for something wonderfully sweet.

You can keep up to date with the Chester opening and explore Fudge Kitchen's range by visiting Fudge Kitchen's website https://www.fudgekitchen.co.uk

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World Chocolate Day 2026: The Sweet Story Behind Everyone's Favourite Treat

Celebrate World Chocolate Day with That's Food and Drink. Discover the history of chocolate, delicious ways to enjoy it, and ideas for marking this sweet annual celebration.

World Chocolate Day, celebrated every year on 7 July, is the perfect excuse to indulge in one of life's greatest pleasures. 

Whether you prefer silky milk chocolate, rich dark varieties or creamy white chocolate, today is all about appreciating the confectionery that has delighted taste buds for centuries.

Chocolate's story begins with the cacao tree, native to Central and South America. Ancient civilisations including the Maya and Aztecs prized cacao beans so highly that they were even used as currency. The chocolate they drank was very different from the sweet bars we enjoy today, often flavoured with spices and served as a bitter drink.

It wasn't until chocolate arrived in Europe during the 16th century that sugar was added, transforming it into the luxurious treat that gradually became popular across the continent. Thanks to innovations during the Industrial Revolution, chocolate became more affordable, paving the way for many of the iconic brands we know and love today.

The UK has a particularly strong affection for chocolate. From classic chocolate bars and boxed chocolates to artisan creations made by independent chocolatiers, there's something to satisfy every palate. Supermarkets, specialist retailers and local producers continue to introduce exciting new flavours, combining chocolate with everything from sea salt and chilli to honeycomb, pistachios and even craft beer.

World Chocolate Day is also an opportunity to explore chocolate in the kitchen. Rich chocolate brownies, indulgent cakes, silky mousses, homemade truffles and luxurious hot chocolates are all fantastic ways to mark the occasion. Even a simple bowl of fresh strawberries dipped in melted chocolate can feel wonderfully indulgent.

If you're feeling adventurous, why not try pairing chocolate with unexpected foods? Dark chocolate complements strong cheeses surprisingly well, while quality chocolate pairs beautifully with coffee, red wine, port and certain stouts. The growing popularity of bean-to-bar producers also means chocolate lovers can discover how different cacao-growing regions influence flavour, much like fine wines.

As always, moderation is key. While chocolate can certainly be part of a balanced diet, it's worth remembering that many products contain significant amounts of sugar and fat. Choosing high-quality chocolate and savouring smaller portions often makes the experience even more enjoyable.

So whether you're treating yourself to your favourite chocolate bar, baking with the family, supporting a local chocolatier or discovering an exciting new flavour combination, World Chocolate Day offers the perfect excuse to celebrate this much-loved delicacy.

After all, few foods have the power to bring so many smiles with just a single bite.

Happy World Chocolate Day from everyone at That's Food and Drink!

Can You Really Fry an Egg on the Pavement? The Science Behind the Summer Myth

Discover whether Fry an Egg on the Sidewalk Day is fact or fiction. 

We explore the science behind cooking an egg on hot pavement and why it's harder than you think.

Every summer, as temperatures soar and weather presenters warn us about extreme heat, someone will inevitably ask the same question:

"It's so hot you could fry an egg on the pavement!"

In fact, there's even a day dedicated to putting that claim to the test, Fry an Egg on the Sidewalk Day, celebrated each year on 4 July. But is it actually possible, or is it simply one of those summer myths that refuses to disappear?

The Science Behind the Sizzle

The short answer is: usually not.

An egg needs to reach around 70°C before the proteins begin to set properly. While a dark tarmac road or pavement can become significantly hotter than the surrounding air, it still rarely reaches a temperature capable of fully cooking an egg.

On an exceptionally hot day, black asphalt exposed to direct sunshine can climb to around 65–80°C. That sounds promising, but there's a catch.

The pavement is constantly losing heat to the surrounding air and ground beneath it. Unlike a frying pan, it isn't receiving a continuous supply of energy from a hob. As soon as you crack the egg onto the surface, the cooler egg rapidly absorbs the stored heat, causing the surface temperature to drop.

The result?

A rather disappointing puddle of slowly warming egg white rather than a delicious fried breakfast.

But People Have Done It...

You'll often see viral videos showing eggs apparently frying on pavements during heatwaves in places such as Arizona or Death Valley.

Look closely, however, and many of these demonstrations use metal trays, baking sheets or cast-iron pans that have been preheated by the sun. These absorb and retain much more heat than concrete or tarmac, making cooking far more likely.

So while an egg may cook outdoors without electricity or gas, it's often the hot pan doing the work, not the pavement itself.

Should You Try It?

If you're curious, there's no harm in experimenting, provided you do so safely and clean up afterwards.

Choose a disposable tray or an old frying pan rather than cracking an egg directly onto public pavements. Nobody wants to step in a half-cooked breakfast on the way to the shops!

And remember that if it's hot enough for outdoor cooking experiments, it's also hot enough to pose genuine health risks.

Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, keep pets off scorching pavements, and avoid leaving children or animals in parked vehicles, even for a few minutes.

Verdict

So, can you fry an egg on a pavement?

Technically... sometimes. Reliably... not really.

It's one of those wonderfully enduring summer sayings that's based on a grain of truth but exaggerated over the years.

Still, Fry an Egg on the Sidewalk Day is a fun excuse to celebrate sunshine, enjoy a barbecue, or simply cook your eggs the traditional way, in a frying pan in the kitchen!

After all, breakfast tastes much better when it isn't seasoned with bits of tarmac.

International Pineapple Day: Delicious Ways to Celebrate This Tropical Favourite

Celebrate International Pineapple Day with tasty recipe ideas, fascinating pineapple facts and creative ways to enjoy one of the world's most popular tropical fruits.

If there was ever a fruit guaranteed to bring a little sunshine to your day, it's the pineapple. Sweet, juicy and instantly recognisable, this tropical favourite deserves its own celebration, and International Pineapple Day is the perfect excuse to enjoy it in all its delicious forms.

Whether you're slicing it into a fruit salad, grilling it on the barbecue, blending it into a smoothie or enjoying it on top of a homemade pizza (yes, we know that's still a subject of fierce debate!), pineapples are one of the most versatile fruits you can keep in the kitchen.

I used to love pineapple and cheese on a stick, back in the day! And there was a delicatessen that sold cottage cheese with pineapple which I was quite partial to. 

Originally native to South America, pineapples were once considered such a luxury that wealthy families would hire them simply to display at lavish dinner parties. Today they're readily available in supermarkets throughout the UK, making it easy to bring a taste of the tropics to your table.

More than just delicious

Pineapples don't just taste fantastic – they're packed with goodness too. They're an excellent source of vitamin C, helping to support the immune system, while also providing manganese, fibre and antioxidants.

One of their most interesting natural components is bromelain, an enzyme that helps break down protein. This makes fresh pineapple a popular ingredient in marinades, as it can help tenderise meat while adding a subtle sweetness.

Fantastic ways to enjoy pineapple

International Pineapple Day is the perfect opportunity to experiment with this colourful fruit. Why not try:

Fresh pineapple chunks straight from the fridge on a hot summer's day.

Pineapple and coconut smoothies for a tropical breakfast.

Grilled pineapple served alongside chicken, pork or halloumi.

Pineapple salsa with chilli, coriander and lime to accompany fish.

Homemade upside-down pineapple cake.

Pineapple added to fruit kebabs for the barbecue.

Frozen pineapple pieces blended into a refreshing sorbet.

If you're entertaining friends or family, hollowing out half a pineapple also makes a spectacular natural serving bowl for fruit salads or tropical desserts.

Don't waste the leftovers

Even the tough outer skin and leafy crown don't have to go to waste. Pineapple peel can be simmered to make a fragrant syrup or infused into drinks, while the leafy top can even be rooted in water before planting to grow an attractive houseplant. Although growing a new pineapple takes patience, it's a fun project for children and gardening enthusiasts alike.

A little tropical sunshine

With Britain enjoying warm summer weather, International Pineapple Day arrives at just the right time. Whether you're hosting a barbecue, preparing a picnic or simply looking for a refreshing snack, pineapple brings colour, flavour and a taste of the tropics to every occasion.

So why not pick one up on your next shopping trip and celebrate one of nature's most cheerful fruits? Your taste buds will certainly thank you.

Happy International Pineapple Day from everyone at That's Food and Drink!

Too Hot to Shop? Let That's Food and Drink Bring the Drinks to You!

When the temperature climbs high enough to make the pavement shimmer and even your ice cubes start looking nervous, the last thing most of us want to do is stagger around a supermarket wrestling with a trolley full of drinks.

Let's be honest. In this sort of weather, putting on proper clothes feels like an achievement. Carrying a dozen bottles of fizzy pop, a case of lager and a few bottles of wine home? That's practically an Olympic event.

Thankfully, there is a much cooler solution.

The Amazon-powered That's Food and Drink online shop is packed with refreshing drinks that can be delivered straight to your front door. That means you can stay in the shade while someone else does the heavy lifting.

Whether you're looking to stock up on crisp lagers, craft beers, ciders, chilled wines, premium spirits, fruit juices, sparkling water, fizzy favourites or refreshing mixers, there's a huge selection waiting to be discovered.

No more standing in supermarket queues wondering why the person in front has chosen today to write a cheque. On an account they forgot they closed years ago.

No more discovering that the shelves where your favourite beer should be now resemble an abandoned archaeological dig.

And certainly no more trying to carry six bags home while simultaneously melting into a small puddle.

Instead, you can browse at your own pace from the comfort of your sofa. Better still, you can do it while enjoying the very last cold drink in your fridge before your fresh supplies arrive.

Planning a barbecue? Hosting friends? Watching the cricket, Wimbledon or simply trying to survive another tropical afternoon in Britain? Ordering online means you can keep your fridge well stocked without ever leaving the house.

Don't forget the snacks, either. Crisps, nuts, chocolate, biscuits and countless cupboard essentials are all available alongside drinks, making it easy to top up your supplies without organising one enormous supermarket delivery.

Best of all, every purchase made through the That's Food and Drink online shop helps support the work we do in bringing you daily food and drink news, recipes, reviews and features—all at no extra cost to you.

So if the thought of venturing outside fills you with dread, stay cool, stay hydrated and let your drinks come to you instead.

After all, whoever invented home delivery deserves a nice, cold drink... preferably one that somebody else has carried to the door.

Cheers to that!

Visit the That's Food and Drink Amazon Shop today and discover thousands of refreshing drinks and foodie favourites, all ready to be delivered directly to your doorstep. The address is here:-

https://amzn.to/4uVWgko

By the way, the shop also stocks a wide range of fans and air con units, too!

Go Bananas! Beat the Heatwave Ice Cream Shortage with Nature's Perfect Frozen Treat.

As Britain continues to swelter through one of the hottest spells of recent years, supermarket and convenience shop freezers have been emptied of ice creams, iced lollies and frozen desserts almost as quickly as they're being restocked. 

Families searching for a cool treat have often been left disappointed.

Fortunately, there's a delicious, healthy and surprisingly creamy alternative that's probably already sitting in your fruit bowl, the humble banana.

Freeze Today, Enjoy Later

Even if your bananas are beginning to develop brown spots, don't throw them away. Instead, peel them, place them in a freezer bag or airtight container, and pop them into the freezer.

After a few hours they'll be transformed into one of the simplest frozen treats imaginable.

Frozen bananas develop a wonderfully creamy texture that many people compare to ice cream, despite containing no added sugar, cream or artificial ingredients.

Even Better Blended

For an extra-special dessert, slice the frozen bananas into chunks before freezing.

Once frozen, blend them in a food processor or powerful blender until smooth. The result is what's often called "nice cream" a rich, silky dessert made entirely from fruit.

You can also customise it with your favourite flavours:

Cocoa powder for a chocolate version.

Peanut butter for a protein-packed treat.

Strawberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.

Vanilla extract and a drizzle of honey.

Cinnamon for something a little different.

The possibilities are almost endless.

A Budget-Friendly Choice

With the cost of living still putting pressure on household budgets, frozen bananas are also remarkably economical.

Instead of paying several pounds for premium ice cream, you're making use of fruit that might otherwise end up in the compost bin.

It's a great way to reduce food waste while creating something everyone can enjoy.

Naturally Refreshing

Bananas are rich in potassium, vitamin B6 and fibre, making them a more nutritious alternative to many frozen desserts that are packed with sugar and additives. So they'll help you to naturally rehydrate yourself.

While they still contain natural sugars, they're a wholesome option for cooling down during hot weather.

A Handy Freezer Staple

Even when the current heatwave eventually fades, keeping a supply of frozen bananas on hand is a brilliant idea.

They're perfect for smoothies, milkshakes, baking, homemade ice cream, or simply eaten straight from the freezer as a refreshing snack.

So, if the supermarket freezer shelves are looking a little bare, don't despair. Grab a bunch of bananas instead.

Sometimes the simplest ideas really are the best, and in this scorching weather, nature may already have provided the perfect ice cream.

Have you tried frozen bananas before? We'd love to hear your favourite flavour combinations and creative toppings in the comments below!

The inspiration for this post was when my wife answered my desire for ice cream with a frozen banana from our freezer!

Seven Bro7hers Throw Away IPA Review – The Beer Brewed with Kellogg's Corn Flakes

Discover Seven Bro7hers Throw Away IPA, the innovative craft beer brewed using surplus Kellogg's Corn Flakes to reduce food waste while delivering plenty of flavour.

When most people think of Kellogg's Corn Flakes, they probably picture breakfast rather than beer. 

But one of Britain's most innovative breweries has proved that surplus breakfast cereal can become the perfect ingredient for a very delicious pint.

Seven Bro7hers Brewery's Throw Away IPA is a fantastic example of how sustainability and great brewing can work hand in hand, transforming food that would otherwise go to waste into a refreshing, hop-forward craft beer.

Brewing Beer with Breakfast Cereal

The Salford-based brewery partnered with Kellogg's to create Throw Away IPA using surplus Corn Flakes from Kellogg's manufacturing process. These cereals are perfectly edible but may be slightly too large, too small or imperfect in appearance to make it into the familiar cereal boxes found on supermarket shelves.

Rather than allowing these perfectly good ingredients to become waste, they are incorporated into the brewing process, replacing part of the traditional grain bill during mashing. The result is an IPA with a subtle residual sweetness that complements the beer's generous hop character.

A Modern IPA

Throw Away IPA isn't simply a novelty beer.

The brewery has created a genuinely and highly enjoyable India Pale Ale that showcases modern hop varieties including Chinook, Amarillo, Loral and Talus Cryo. 

Together they produce bright citrus flavours, floral aromas and gentle pine notes that craft beer lovers expect from a contemporary IPA.

At around 5% ABV, it offers a balanced drinking experience, with the sweetness from the Corn Flakes sitting comfortably alongside the refreshing bitterness of the hops.

Fighting Food Waste

One of the most appealing aspects of Throw Away IPA is the story behind it.

Food waste remains a significant challenge throughout the food industry, and innovative partnerships like this demonstrate that perfectly usable ingredients can often enjoy a second life rather than ending up as waste or lower-value products.

The collaboration proved so successful that Seven Bro7hers and Kellogg's later expanded the concept to create additional beers using surplus Coco Pops and Rice Krispies, highlighting just how creative sustainable brewing can become.

Not Quite Vegan

One interesting point worth noting is that Throw Away IPA isn't suitable for vegans. Although the brewery produces many vegan-friendly beers, this particular brew uses Kellogg's Corn Flakes, which contain Vitamin D derived from lanolin.

Our Verdict

Here at That's Food and Drink, we're always pleased to see breweries experimenting with new ingredients, particularly when those innovations help reduce food waste.

Throw Away IPA proves that sustainability doesn't have to come at the expense of flavour. It's a well-crafted modern IPA with an engaging backstory that makes every pint even more satisfying.

Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast, interested in sustainable food production, or simply curious about unusual brewing ingredients, this is one beer that's well worth seeking out. 

And it's a very moreish IPA, in our opinion, light and very delicious. 

Sometimes, breakfast really can be the most important ingredient of the day.

https://www.sevenbro7hers.com

Cardiff Community Summer Supper Returns for an Evening of Food, Friendship and Fun at Railway Gardens

A much-loved community celebration is returning to Cardiff this summer, bringing neighbours together to enjoy delicious food, live entertainment and plenty of family-friendly fun.

Railway Gardens in Splott will host its annual Community Summer Supper (Swper yr Haf i'r Gymuned) on Friday 10 July, welcoming local residents and visitors alike for a free evening celebrating community spirit from 5.30pm until 8pm.

Organised by Cardiff social enterprise Green Squirrel, the event has become one of the highlights of the local summer calendar. Following the success of last year's gathering, which attracted more than double the expected number of attendees, organisers are preparing for another vibrant evening filled with conversation, laughter and shared meals.

At the heart of the event is a community picnic where guests are invited, if they are able, to bring along a cold vegetarian or vegan dish to share. The plant-based feast offers a wonderful opportunity to sample a variety of homemade dishes while meeting new people and catching up with neighbours in the relaxed surroundings of Railway Gardens.

This year's Summer Supper will also introduce a brand-new Community Talent Show, giving local residents the chance to showcase everything from music and dance to comedy, poetry and other hidden talents. The aim is simple: to create an inclusive space where people can celebrate one another's creativity and enjoy an evening of shared entertainment.

Alongside the food and performances, visitors can enjoy games and activities suitable for all ages, explore the gardens, visit the community photobooth and soak up the welcoming atmosphere that has become synonymous with the annual event.

Hannah Garcia, Director of Green Squirrel, told That's Food and Drink that everyone deserves opportunities to eat together, get to know their neighbours and build stronger communities. 

She praised the organisation's dedicated volunteers, whose efforts help create a welcoming environment where lasting friendships can flourish.

Railway Gardens itself has become a remarkable example of community transformation. Opened in 2022 after almost eight years of campaigning, fundraising and planning, the site has grown into a thriving hub featuring food-growing spaces, a community kitchen, creative workshops, business units, volunteer opportunities and the popular Seal and Bear café.

Whether you're a Cardiff local or simply looking for an enjoyable summer evening with great food and friendly company, the Community Summer Supper promises a warm Welsh welcome.

Events like this demonstrate that food has an incredible ability to bring people together, creating stronger communities one shared meal at a time.

Event Details:

Date: 10/07/2026

Time: 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Location: Railway Gardens, End of Adelines Street, Splott, Cardiff, CF24 2BH

Admission: Free and open to all

https://greensquirrel.co.uk

https://greensquirrel.co.uk/railwaygardens

Don't Form a Conga Line in the Pub – Stand at the Bar Like a Brit!

Wondering how to queue properly in a British pub? Discover why standing along the bar, not forming a single-file line, is the traditional and most efficient way to order a drink.

If you've ever walked into a busy British pub and found yourself wondering why there's a queue, you're not alone. Increasingly, people seem to be forming long, supermarket-style lines stretching away from the bar.

But here's the thing – that's not how pubs are meant to work.

For generations, ordering a drink or a bar meal in a British pub has followed a simple, unwritten rule: stand along the bar and wait your turn.

Unlike a coffee shop or supermarket, pubs traditionally don't have a single-file queue. Instead, customers spread themselves along the bar, allowing bar staff to see everyone waiting. Experienced bartenders have an uncanny ability to remember who arrived first and serve people in the correct order.

It's a system built on trust, common sense and good manners.

Of course, that means customers have a role to play too. If someone who arrived after you is served first, it's usually because the bartender made an honest mistake. Likewise, if you're offered service before someone who has clearly been waiting longer, the polite thing to do is simply say, "I think they were here before me."

Most people appreciate the gesture, and it's all part of traditional British pub etiquette.

The rise of the single-file "conga line" can actually make life more difficult. 

Long queues block walkways, make it harder for people to reach different parts of the bar and slow down service, especially in busy pubs where several members of staff are serving different sections simultaneously and negotiating a long line of customers whilst carrying trays of hot food. 

Standing along the bar allows bartenders to serve multiple customers quickly and efficiently, keeping drinks flowing and food orders taken, and reducing waiting times for everyone.

So next time you visit your favourite local, remember these simple tips:

Stand at the bar rather than forming a single-file queue.

Make yourself visible without blocking other customers.

Know what you'd like before you're served.

Have your payment ready.

Step away from the bar once you've collected your drinks.

If someone was waiting before you, let them be served first.

British pubs are about more than just enjoying a pint. They're part of our heritage, with traditions that have evolved over hundreds of years. The informal bar queue is one of those traditions that works remarkably well when everyone understands the unwritten rules.

So let's keep the conga lines for weddings and Christmas parties, and leave pub ordering exactly where it belongs: spread along the bar.

That's Food and Drink Expands Online Retail Presence with New Amazon Storefront

That's Food and Drink is expanding its online retail presence with a new Amazon storefront, alongside sister blogs That's Christmas 365, That's Health and That's Business.

Exciting changes are underway at That's Food and Drink as we continue to expand our online retail presence and make it even easier for readers to discover products, ingredients, kitchen essentials and food and drink inspiration all in one place.

Over the years, That's Food and Drink has grown from a simple food blog into a trusted source of recipes, product news, restaurant features, drink recommendations, cooking tips and industry updates. As our audience continues to grow, we are taking positive steps to improve the way readers can find and purchase products that feature across our articles.

One of the biggest developments is the expansion of our Amazon storefront, which will showcase a carefully selected range of food, drink, cookware, kitchen gadgets, recipe books, entertaining essentials and seasonal favourites. The aim is to create a convenient shopping experience that complements the content our readers already enjoy.

Whether you're looking for specialist ingredients, coffee-making equipment, baking tools, cocktail accessories, barbecue essentials or gift ideas for food lovers, our enhanced retail offering will bring together products that we believe represent excellent value and quality.

The development also reflects the growth of our wider family of blogs.

Our sister publication, That's Christmas 365, continues to provide festive inspiration throughout the year, covering Christmas food, gift guides, decorations, traditions and seasonal events. The expanded retail platform will allow readers to discover Christmas products and gift ideas whenever they start planning for the festive season.

Meanwhile, That's Health offers practical information on wellbeing, nutrition, healthy living and healthcare developments. Carefully selected health and wellness products will help support readers who are looking to make positive lifestyle choices.

For business owners and professionals, That's Business delivers news, insights and advice covering entrepreneurship, technology, leadership and workplace trends. The retail expansion will also highlight useful books, office products and business resources relevant to our professional audience.

By bringing these brands together under a stronger retail presence, we hope to create a seamless experience that allows readers to move easily between trusted content and carefully chosen products.

This is just the beginning. We will continue to develop new features, expand product ranges and explore additional ways to support our readers across all our platforms.

Thank you for being part of the journey. We look forward to sharing the next chapter with you.