Showing posts with label Cafe. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Cafe. Show all posts

Monday, 30 September 2024

The Hidden Hygiene Risks of Leaving Cutlery Out in the Open in Restaurants, Pubs, and Cafés

In the hospitality industry, maintaining impeccable hygiene is a top priority. However, one often overlooked aspect of food safety and hygiene is the proper handling and storage of cutlery. 

Leaving cutlery out in the open in restaurants, pubs, cafés, and other eating establishments may seem convenient and time saving to the premises but it poses significant risks to both hygiene and customer safety. 

Below, we explore the hidden dangers of this common practice and why it should be avoided.

Incidentally this blogpost was engendered when we were dining out in a chain restaurant (which we will not be naming) when we saw a child wandering free who was picking his nose and then fingering the cutlery in an open cutlery tray that was waiting for diners to collect their cutlery from. Nice! 

1. Exposure to Airborne Contaminants

Cutlery left out in the open, especially in high-traffic areas, is vulnerable to airborne particles such as dust, dirt, and bacteria. In busy restaurants or pubs, with people constantly walking in and out, opening doors, and moving around, the air can carry germs from various sources. Airborne pathogens from coughs, sneezes, and even kitchen vapours can settle on exposed cutlery, contaminating it before it reaches the customer. And even contact contamination such as mentioned above. 

2. Cross-Contamination

Cross-contamination occurs when bacteria or other harmful microorganisms are transferred from one surface to another. Leaving cutlery on open trays, countertops, or self-serve stations makes it easy for contamination to occur. Customers and staff might unintentionally touch the handles or the business end of forks, knives, and spoons while selecting their utensils. If someone has not washed their hands properly or has come into contact with contaminated surfaces, bacteria can be transferred onto the cutlery.

3. Increased Risk of Pest Infestation

Pests such as flies, rodents, and cockroaches are attracted to food establishments. Cutlery left out in the open is an easy target for these pests, which are notorious for spreading harmful bacteria. Flies, for example, can land on cutlery after having been in contact with rotting food or waste, leading to the rapid spread of germs. Similarly, rodents might brush past exposed utensils, leaving behind fur, faeces, or saliva – all of which can carry diseases.

4. Customer Perception and Trust

In an era where customers are increasingly concerned about hygiene and food safety, visible cutlery left in open areas can raise red flags. Diners may question the establishment’s overall cleanliness and food safety practices if they see cutlery left out in the open, especially if it appears dusty or is placed in unclean environments. Maintaining a professional and clean presentation is essential in building trust with customers, and exposed cutlery can negatively impact that perception.

5. Environmental Contaminants

Beyond indoor risks, environmental factors also play a role in hygiene. If cutlery is left near windows, doors, or outdoor seating areas, it is more likely to be exposed to pollutants from outside. Pollens, exhaust fumes, and other outdoor contaminants can settle on cutlery, increasing the risk of contaminating customers' food once they use the utensils.

6. Temperature Control

Cutlery left out in the open is also susceptible to temperature fluctuations, which can affect hygiene. For instance, if utensils are stored near heating sources or in sunny areas, they can become too warm, which might create an environment conducive to bacterial growth. Conversely, cold environments can cause moisture build-up, further increasing the risk of contamination.

7. Best Practices for Cutlery Storage

To ensure customer safety and maintain hygiene standards, it is essential for restaurants, pubs, and cafés to implement proper cutlery storage practices. Here are a few recommendations:

Store cutlery in covered containers or drawers: This prevents exposure to airborne contaminants, pests, and environmental pollutants.

Limit customer contact with utensils: Staff should handle the cutlery as much as possible, using gloves when setting tables or wrapping utensils in napkins.

Keep cutlery in the kitchen until needed: When cutlery is stored in the kitchen or behind the service counter, it is less likely to be contaminated by customers or environmental factors.

Regularly sanitise storage areas: Even when stored properly, cutlery containers and drawers should be cleaned and disinfected frequently.

Monitor for pests: Ensure that pest control measures are in place and regularly inspect cutlery storage areas for signs of infestation.

Conclusion

While it may be tempting to leave cutlery out for the sake of convenience, the potential risks to hygiene far outweigh the benefits. Food safety should always come first in any dining establishment, and proper cutlery storage is a critical component of that. 

By keeping utensils in covered, controlled environments and minimising their exposure to contaminants, restaurants, pubs, and cafés can ensure the health and safety of their customers, while also maintaining their reputation for cleanliness and professionalism. Also, making one's customers obtain their own cutlery, napkins, etc, smacks of industrial catering and really isn't something an eatery should do if it wants to attract and retain diners.

Tuesday, 24 September 2024

Discover the Gratitude Café: A Hidden Gem in Wellington, Telford

Nestled in the heart of Wellington, Telford, the Gratitude Café, in Duke Stret, offers a unique blend of warmth, community spirit, and delicious food that has quickly made it a beloved spot for locals and visitors alike. 

Whether you’re in the mood for a cosy cup of coffee, a hearty lunch, or just a friendly chat, this café delivers an experience that is far more than just a place to eat—it’s a place to connect, relax, and feel truly welcome.

A Café with a Heart

What sets the Gratitude Café apart from other eateries in the area is its deep commitment to creating a space where everyone feels at home. As soon as you walk through the door, you’re greeted by a welcoming atmosphere that radiates kindness and inclusivity. The décor is charmingly eclectic, with mismatched furniture, soft lighting, and thoughtful touches that reflect the café's ethos of gratitude and mindfulness.

The Gratitude Café takes pride in promoting a sense of community, encouraging patrons to slow down and take a moment to appreciate life’s little joys. Whether it’s a warm conversation with the staff, a book from the community library shelf, or simply enjoying the serene atmosphere, the café is designed to help you unwind from the daily hustle and bustle.

Food for the Soul

The menu at the Gratitude Café is a delightful mix of wholesome, freshly prepared dishes that cater to a wide range of dietary preferences. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking for something hearty and delicious, the café has something to offer. Their focus on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients means that every dish is as fresh as it is flavourful.

From light bites like avocado toast and homemade soups to more substantial offerings like smashed burgers, veggie burgers and hearty sandwiches, there’s a dish to suit every taste. For those with a sweet tooth, the café’s selection of homemade cakes and pastries is simply irresistible. Pair your meal with one of their expertly brewed coffees, a pot of loose-leaf tea, or a refreshing smoothie, and you’ve got the perfect meal for any time of day.

Sustainability and Local Support

At its core, the Gratitude Café is about giving back to the local community. Their focus on sustainability is evident in everything they do, from the use of eco-friendly packaging to their partnerships with local suppliers. They believe in supporting small, independent businesses in the area, ensuring that every cup of coffee or slice of cake you enjoy has a positive impact on the local economy.

The café also regularly hosts community events, such as book clubs, mindfulness sessions, and workshops, fostering a sense of connection among Wellington’s residents. These events reflect the café’s mission to be more than just a business—they want to be a space where people come together, share ideas, and inspire one another.

A Personal Touch

One of the things that truly makes the Gratitude Café special is its staff. Friendly, attentive, and always ready with a smile, they go out of their way to make every visitor feel valued. Whether you’re a regular or a first-time visitor, you’re likely to find yourself having a conversation with the staff that goes beyond the usual pleasantries, making you feel like part of the Gratitude Café family.

Perfect for All Occasions

Whether you’re popping in for a quick coffee on your way to work, meeting friends for a leisurely lunch, or looking for a quiet spot to read or work, the Gratitude Café is the perfect destination. Its relaxed vibe makes it ideal for both solo visitors and groups, with plenty of seating options to accommodate everyone.

They also host musical events, too.

Conclusion

The Gratitude Café is more than just a place to grab a bite to eat—it's a place that embodies the values of kindness, community, and mindfulness. With its focus on fresh, locally sourced food, eco-friendly practices, and creating a welcoming atmosphere for all, it’s no wonder this charming spot has become a favourite in Wellington, Telford. If you’re looking for somewhere to relax, recharge, and enjoy a meal that nourishes both body and soul, the Gratitude Café is the perfect place to do so.

Next time you’re in Wellington, be sure to stop by the Gratitude Café. You’ll leave feeling not just satisfied, but uplifted and connected to the community around you.

Wednesday, 7 August 2024

Range of great kids' meal deals at The Range

The Range is offering free kids’ meals at its instore cafes for the rest of the summer, allowing parents and grandparents an easier, more affordable option to keep keep the kids entertained, whilst also and helping keep family finances a bit more comfortable, which is always a good thing!

Available in most of The Range's stores all over the UK and the Republic of Ireland, customers can enjoy this offer, launched on the 20th July 2024, just by buying at least one full, adult main meal. 

Kids’ dishes, awelcome change from school dinners, include hot and cold meal options like a kids’ Pick ‘n’ Mix sandwich selection or cooked to order breakfast, fish and chips, chicken goujons and more besides. 

All kids meals will include a drink, and piece of fruit to encourage healthy munching.

Meanwhile, the adult mains in the offer also include a cooked to order breakfast, plus options burgers, pizza, pies, pastas and a variety of tasty curries. 

Here's what's available:- 

Qualifying Meals for Kids:

Children can choose from a variety of meals, including:

Kids Breakfast (Served until 11 am): Pick 4 Items | From 195Kcal

Fish & Chips: Served with Peas or Beans | From 367Kcal

Chicken Goujons & Chips: Served with Peas or Beans | From 373Kcal

Vegan Chicken Goujons & Chips: Served with Peas or Beans | From 416Kcal

Sausage & Chips: Served with Peas or Beans | From 340Kcal

Vegetarian Sausage & Chips: Served with Peas or Beans | From 325Kcal

Qualifying Meals for Adults:

To redeem a free child's meal, adults can choose from the following main meals:

Large Breakfast

Fish, Chips & Peas

Burger, Chips & Salad

Southern Fried Chicken, Chips, and Coleslaw

Chicken Tikka Masala

Sweet Potato Curry

Lasagne and Garlic Bread

Vegetarian Lasagne & Garlic Bread

Mac and Cheese

Steak Pie with Chips and Peas

Pizza (Cheese, Pepperoni, Veg, Meat Feast)

T&C apply, please check for availability.

Just look out for Café Eighty Nine within The Range branches. Whilst you are there, check out their 18 departments including DIY, Kitchen & Dining, Furniture, Arts & Crafts and Textiles. (Incidentally my wife and I are often to be found in the kitchenware, pets, garden centre section and the arts and crafts departments of our branch of The Range!)

https://www.therange.co.uk

Saturday, 27 January 2024

Looking for a traditional Sunday roast? Morrisons is the answer

Morrisons is adding a variety of classic British roasts to its café menus so customers can enjoy the much-loved dish every Sunday, but without breaking the bank. 

A new and improved Roast Chicken Dinner and Roast Beef Dinner is available, and both come with traditional trimmings of golden roast potatoes, larger Yorkshire puddings, seasonal vegetables, peas, cauliflower cheese, mashed potato, stuffing and a pouring of delicious rich gravy for a mere £7.50.

Diners can also choose a vegetarian or vegan roast dinner option,  meaning there's a warming tasty treat for everyone to enjoy. The Pumpkin, Mushroom & Cranberry Roast is served with roast potatoes, seasonal vegetables, peas, stuffing and gravy, with the vegetarian option including cauliflower cheese and Yorkshires too.

Morrisons has even introduced a smaller roast so that children don’t feel left out. For just £3.50, they can enjoy the Kids Roast Chicken Dinner which comes with roasties, mash, seasonal veg and gravy. 

What’s more, families can take advantage of the Kids Eat Free offer when purchasing an adult meal that costs over £4.50. This means a family of four can all enjoy the roast of their choosing for just £15.

Any roast can be topped off with a delicious dessert for just £3. Sweet treat options include a Bramley Apple Crumble or Sticky Toffee Pudding topped with custard or a Chocolate Fudge Cake served with cream. 

Chris Strong, Morrisons Café Buying Manager, said: “The classic Sunday Roast is a staple of British culture. And it's one we know our customers love, and we are delighted to now offer the hearty dishes from our cafés exclusively on Sundays. 

From the new vegan and vegetarian options to the kids’ dinner, there is something available for everyone so families can enjoy a perfect mealtime together at an affordable price, and save on a mountain of washing up in the kitchen afterwards!”

The Sunday Roast menu is available in all Morrisons cafés now. For more information on Morrisons cafés, visit: https://my.morrisons.com/morrisons-cafe

(I have an idea that I know where we may well end up on Sunday!)

Tuesday, 12 December 2023

Owens Coffee Unveils Perfect Waves Café

Devon-based coffee roaster, Owens Coffee, is proud to announce the opening of Perfect Waves Café, a stylish new coffee shop within The Roastery at Ivybridge. This expansion marks a significant enhancement to the original takeaway, now providing a warm, inviting indoor space for up to 25 customers.

Perfect Waves Café is located just off the A38, adjacent to Endsleigh Garden Centre, offering an easily accessible pit stop for those passing by to indulge in a cup of sustainably sourced coffee, freshly roasted on-site, beautifully brewed tea and delicious local produce. Find Perfect Waves Café at The Roastery (Ivybridge, PL21 9JL), open from Monday to Saturday from 9am - 4pm. Four-legged friends are welcome inside the new café and in the existing outdoor seating area.

Lorraine Bridden, Managing Director of Owens Coffee, says: “We’ve opened Perfect Waves Café to give our passionate team the opportunity to showcase everything we do, from our organic and Fairtrade coffee to our expertly brewed teas and locally sourced produce. 

“Our customers will have a choice of coffees, including a house blend or a single origin of the day, plus our organic Decaf. We’ve installed our Rancilio RS1 coffee machine for our professionally trained baristas. The machine is an extremely high-tech piece of kit, which is programmable so that we’re able to make consistent, precision-made coffees. Our teas, Devonshire Tea and Perfect Waves infusions are also a feature of the drinks menu.

“Customers visiting our new space can look forward to an all-round experience with top-quality produce brought to you by our friendly team of baristas.”

The new café is proud to serve Owens’ freshly roasted coffee beans, all of which are 100% certified organic and Fairtrade, having been expertly roasted on-site. Choose from a variety of brewing methods, served black or with Trewithen’s Barista Milk or plant-based alternatives. 

The inspiration for the name, Perfect Waves infusions will also star on the menu, alongside hot chocolates and soft drinks, from local suppliers Luscombe Drinks, Gusto Fairtrade & Organic Drinks, Tarka Springs, Four Elms Apple Juice and Courtney’s Apple Juice.

The menu has been developed around showcasing locally sourced produce, where possible, featuring a selection of sandwiches, paninis, light bites, fresh cakes and pastries with organic and vegan options (subject to availability). Sourced from local producers and suppliers including Cakewhole, Tamar Fresh, Foxcombe Bakehouse Bars, Burts Crisps, Mr Filbert's snacks, Plough to Plate and Flapjackery.

The Roastery - a purpose-built, state-of-the-art facility designed to have a low environmental impact - has been home to Owens Coffee since 2018. This is where they clean-roast, package and distribute their organic and Fairtrade coffee across the UK, both to consumers and businesses. It also houses a shop, contemporary training facility and events space where visitors are welcomed, with tours and tastings for wholesale customers, and professional barista training. A range of coffee experiences and masterclasses can be enjoyed by coffee enthusiasts, including their Latte Art Essentials Workshop.

Owens’ range of freshly roasted coffee beans can be purchased from the shop alongside Perfect Waves infusions and a full range of brewing equipment; tried, tested and recommended by the team.

For more information about the new café and upcoming coffee experiences at The Roastery, please visit the website at owenscoffee.com, follow @owenscoffee_ on Instagram and Owens Coffee on Facebook and @PerfectWavesCafe on Instagram and Facebook.

Monday, 16 October 2023

Co-op's The Apiary secures nationwide listing for Manchester's Northern Quarter-based dessert café, Black Milk

Manchester's Northern Quarter-based café, Black Milk, has secured a listing for its products in Co-op stores all over the UK after working with the convenience retailer’s accelerated support scheme for suppliers, known as the Apiary.

Located at 88 Oldham Street, Manchester, Black Milk will see products including its award winning Hazelnut Cream; Pistachio Cream and, White Chocolate sweet spreads stocked in approaching 300 Co-op stores nation-wide, including stores in the North West located in Manchester; Oldham, Ashton, Stockport, Bolton and Rochdale.

Co-op’s Apiary programme searches for new purpose-led small businesses with a unique point of difference. Successful applicants receive valuable tailored support, mentoring and advice on all aspects of the product journey towards gaining a listing in store.

Oliver Taylor who founded Black Milk said: “We're obviously really pleased to work closely with Co-op, especially as a fellow ethical Manchester-based business. This listing sees our spreads stocked in more communities than we have ever been in before, including here in Manchester and across the North West, and it has the potential to significantly raise awareness of our products.

“Since March 2015, our secret sauces and spreads have been developed in our café at the heart of the Northern Quarter, Manchester. These spreads have always been the most popular part of our menu. One day, whilst serving our luxury hazelnut milkshakes a customer asked for an extra shake jar filled with only our hazelnut cream – and we knew then that we had the perfect product to sell. Made with the finest of nuts, these spreads are truly memorable indulgences, we suggest serving them on top of bread, crumpets or croissants, baked into treats or even just eaten off the spoon.”

Kelly Orme, who is the Co-op Community Buying Manager for Local, World Foods & the Apiary, said: “We are really delighted to work with Black Milk, as the dessert café has developed an impressive reputation and following from its Northern Quarter base, and through our Apiary programme we have been able to spend time with owners Andy and Oliver and work closely with them to bring their sweet nut spreads into our stores. 

"We are thrilled to reach this key milestone where the product is now on our shelves - we believe these spreads offer a real point of difference to interest, enthuse and excite Co-op Members and customers in our communities.”

For more information about Black Milk and, to find your local store selling its sweet spreads, visit: blackmilkcereal.com

Saturday, 14 October 2023

Hungry? Shopping? Morrisons has a new café menu!

Hungry shoppers look no further, Morrisons has unveiled its new tasty café menu which includes two very tempting additions; Loaded Crosscut Fries and Mini Fish Fillet Burger, both available in all Morrisons cafés.

For a mere £3.00, the Loaded Crosscut Fries are smothered with a cheesy sauce and BBQ drizzle. Customers can top the dish off with a selection of grated cheese, bacon, or BBQ pulled pork for an extra £1 - £1.50. 

The Mini Fish Fillet Burger is lovingly crafted from fresh, battered fish and served in a bread roll both straight from Morrisons Market Street counters alongside chips and mushy peas, all for just £6.00.

To celebrate the launch, Morrisons is also giving shoppers more reasons to shop by securing some extra More Card points when visiting a Morrisons café. Until 5th November, More Card holders can: 

Earn 400 points when purchasing the new Loaded Crosscut Fries

Earn 600 points when purchasing the Cottage Pie on a Thursday

Earn 600 points when purchasing the new Mini Fish Fillet Burger on a Friday

Earn 600 points when purchasing Half a Roast Chicken and Chips on a Saturday

The new menu still includes popular favourites such as the all day breakfast, fish & chips and bangers & mash, and available all day, every day, families can continue to take advantage of the Kids Eat Free offer when purchasing an adult meal over £4.50.

For more information on Morrisons Cafés, visit: https://my.morrisons.com/morrisons-cafe/

Thursday, 20 July 2023

Morrisons launches great new pick 'n mix kids meal deal in cafés for school summer holidays

Ever-mindful of the fact that families up and down the country are struggling to cope with the current economic crisis, Morrisons is doing more to help feed families during the summer holidays with the introduction of a new pick ‘n’ mix style meal option for kids in Morrisons Cafés, just in time for the summer holidays. Customers can now pick up a sandwich, snack and drink to feed their little ones for just £3.49.

The new kid’s meal deal can also be claimed free of charge thanks to Morrisons continued exclusive Kids Eat Free offer. Customers will be able to get one free kids meal from the kids menu with any adult meal that's over £4.49. The offer is available all day, every day, seven days a week for any child aged under 16 in its cafés nationwide. 

Sandwiches filled with classic kids’ favourites, ham or cheese, can be paired with a wide range of snack and drink choices likes Hula Hoops, Babybels, jelly, bags of fruit, flavoured milk, Robinsons Fruit Shoot, Cawston Press Juice or water.

Chris Strong, Morrisons Café Buying Manager said: “We understand that for many parents and carers keeping the kids fed during the summer holidays can be very much of a challenge, especially with the absence of free school meals. Our new pick ‘n’ mix meal deal, alongside our existing Kids Eat Free offer, are just a few ways we at Morrisons are helping everyone have access to nutritious food without breaking the bank.”

An adult meal deal has also been introduced for £4.79 offering customers a sandwich or toastie alongside a drink and a cake. Toastie options include ham and cheese, whilst egg & cress, prawn, tuna mayonnaise and salmon and cucumber sandwiches are available.  

Both hot and cold drinks are included and cake options include chocolate fudge, lemon drizzle, brownie or a Victoria Sponge.

To find your local Morrisons café, visit: https://my.morrisons.com/storefinder

Thursday, 6 July 2023

Kids Eat Free scheme returns to Tesco cafés for school summer holidays

Tesco has announced it will be re-launching its Kids Eat Free scheme to its 310 cafés across the UK over the school summer holidays.

The scheme will run in cafés between the following dates:

England & Wales: Start 24th July – Finish 1st Sept

Scotland: Start 3rd July – Finish 11th August

Northern Ireland: Start 3rd July – Finish 1st Sept

Tesco's cafes will be offering one free Kids Hot Meal Deal, Kids Breakfast or Kids Pick ‘n’ Mix deal with each item bought by an adult from as little as 60p when showing their Tesco Clubcard at the till.

Jason Tarry, Tesco UK CEO, said: “We know the extra costs of keeping children fed and entertained during the long summer holidays can stretch household budgets, so we’re bringing back Kids Eat Free to give our families a helping hand.”

Popular menu items include beans or avocado on toast, fish fingers, baked chicken goujons or a sandwich. Hot main meals include a vegetable side dish, and the sandwich pick n mix includes a piece of fresh fruit and two snacks, so there’s something healthy and satisfying to feed hungry children from breakfast 'til dinner.

Kids Eat Free is just one of the many ways that Tesco is helping families spend less. Tesco has recently announced price cuts on essential products including spaghetti, cooking oil and yoghurt.

Families can also save thanks to Aldi Price Match, which matches the price of hundreds of products to Aldi, including both Tesco own brand products and big brands, and thanks to Clubcard Prices, more than 20 million Clubcard households have access to thousands of exclusive deals on everything from everyday staples like fruit and veg to treats like prosecco or ice cream.

Friday, 30 June 2023

Asda launches new half price café meals for adults and extends kids eat for £1 offer to support hard-pressed families

From today, Friday 30th June, all Asda café adult main meals will be half price, beginning at £3.12 from 3pm onwards.

So a family of four can eat in Asda cafés from just £8.50.

To help customers tackle the cost-of-living crisis, Asda has announced that its hugely popular ‘Kids Eat for £1’ café meal deal will be extended until the end of the year and also Asda will launch half price adult main meals in its café’s from 3pm onwards.

Asda recently refreshed its Kids for £1 menu adding a more nutritionally balanced offering, including new vegan and healthy meal options. The extension will come as a welcomed boost to the many cash strapped families as the long summer school holidays approach. 

Last summer, over 80,000 meals a week were served across the summer holidays – peaking to over three times the normal levels on an average week.

Asda’s latest Income Tracker shows a decrease in disposable income has been particularly stark for many low-earning families, with 40% of UK households falling into negative income territory in May – meaning their take home pay doesn't cover spending on bills and essentials. The average shortfall for these households was a shocking £42.50 per week in May.

To help relieve some of the financial pressures for families, Asda are introducing half price adult main mains from 3pm until close from Friday 30th June - with the Kids £1 meals remaining in place until the end of the year.

A family of four can eat out as little as £8.50 with the adult menu including some popular favourites like Steak and Ale Pie, served with mash and peas (£3.25), Fish and Chips (£3.25) Chicken Tikka Masala (£3.25), Mac & Cheese (£3.12), Lasagne with Garlic Bread and Salad (£3.25), Scampi, Chips and Peas (£3.25) and Sweet Potato and Spinach curry (VE) (£3.12).

Asda cafés which have an express diner format will also offer a whole 16” pizza for just £4 from 3pm onwards from this Friday until the 4th September.

The supermarket launched the offer for kids under 16 to enjoy a hot meal in any of their 205 cafés in June 2022 and has now served a staggering 1,700,000 million meals to kids from its cafés all over the country. 

As an alternative to a hot meal, Asda cafés also offer a £1 kids cold pick and mix selection that includes a sandwich, drink and some fruit. The refreshed menu now includes new treats like a jelly pot with whole fruit pieces or a jelly squeeze pouch as an alternative to a pack of crisps.

Kris Comerford, Asda’s Chief Commercial Officer said; “We know when families are preparing for the school holidays it can often mean an additional strain on household budgets. Our kids £1 café meal deals continue to provide a lifeline to families as we’ve served over 1,700,000 million meals since its  launch. Now with the introduction of half price adult main mains in cafés from 3pm onwards, it means we can extend our support to the whole family in the coming weeks and across the summer holidays.”

During the summer holidays Asda will be working with leading and trusted educational resource experts Twinkl, to provide café activity packs that are jam packed with holiday fun, educational resources to help you keep children entertained over the summer break. These resources will be available in all Asda Cafés or from the stores Community Champion, whilst stocks last.

www.asda.com.

Thursday, 22 June 2023

Armed Forces Day special deal from Morrisons

Morrisons has announced it's offering servicemen and women and veterans 50% off in cafés nationwide for Armed Forces Day. 

On Saturday June 24th, anyone who comes into a Morrisons café dressed in their armed forces uniform or with a valid form of ID or a medal/badge can receive 50% off all hot meals, hot drinks and cakes. 

Available for one day only, this heroic deal is to thank the thousands of military personnel who have gone above and beyond for their country. 

Military personnel can enjoy hot menu favourites including a Roast Beef or Half Roast Chicken Dinner for just £3.74, Fish and Chips for £3.49 or Bangers and Mash for just £2.49.  

To make the deal even sweeter, those in the forces and veterans can choose from a selection of cakes such as Victoria Sponge or Chocolate Fudge cake for just £1.44.

Chris Strong, Morrisons Café Buying Manager, says: “We’re honoured to be offering those currently serving in the armed forces and veterans 50% off all hot meals, hot drinks and cakes in our cafés as a thank you for all that they have done and continue to do for us all.”

Customers who scan their Morrisons More card at the till will also receive 600 points when spending £6 or more in a Morrisons café.

Morrisons Armed Forces Day deal will be available in all Morrisons cafés on Saturday June 24th and can't be used with any other offer or promotion. 

Monday, 2 May 2011

Cafe Luc, Marylebone, London

Recently my wife and I were in London on business and as we were in Marylebone we decided to try Cafe Luc which is in Marylebone High Street.

We were both immediately impressed with the 'look' of the place, both outside and inside.

It is modern, although discretely designed and there is plenty of room for diners. The seating is comfortable and well-chosen, as is the décor.

We decided to opt for the set menu which is available weekdays from noon until 3pm and also from 6pm until 10pm from Monday to Sunday.

The choice was extremely inviting, consisting of starters, a main cause and a desert.

For the starters the options are: Tomato gazpacho with basil oil,
Fine smoked salmon with English crumpet, horseradish cream and
Terrine of duck confit with foie gras, toasted sourdough.

The main courses are: Pea risotto with aged parmesan, wild rocket
Pan fried Cornish Mackerel with Piperade and Steak & frites, pepper or béarnaise sauce.

And for deserts the choices are as follows: Nutella crème brûlée, Lemon tarte with raspberries and Chantilly plus Tiramisu.

We both decided to have the Fine smoked salmon on an English crumpet with horseradish cream.

An excellent choice, the salmon was melt in the mouth and the horseradish cream tasted as if it had come from Heaven that morning!

We both ordered steak. We both asked for 'very well done' and it was cooked to perfection. The béarnaise sauce was absolutely delicious, as was the pepper sauce, which was my option.

The Pomme frits were a revelation. Fast food restaurants do not sell French Fries. Cafe Luc, on the other hand, does. They were by far and away the nicest chips (of any type!) we had tasted in ages.

For desert my wife chose the Lemon tarte with raspberries and Chantilly whilst I went for the Tiramisu.

The Lemon tart was truly delicious and well-complemented by the raspberries and the Chantilly.

And the Tiramasu? The best I have ever tasted!

Please bear in mind that this is in the heart of London and that the cost per meal was only £15.50. A very modest price.

My wife had a sweet white wine whilst I chose a mineral water. Both modestly priced, too.

The service is excellent and attentive, yet without being over eager.

It is open from 7am until 11.30 with different menus reflecting the time of day.

50 Marylebone High Street
London
W1U 5HN
Tel 020 7258 9878.
http://cafeluc.com

It's probably best to check to see if reservations are necessary.

We noticed a very mixed clientèle, business people, office workers, shoppers and tourists and local people meeting up for lunch.

Will we be going back there? You can count on it.