The Jones Family Project
78 Great Eastern St, London EC2A 3JL, United Kingdom
We were escorted downstairs and immediately I liked the low lighting, warm colors, and modern furnishings (with a vintage twist). We started our meal with drinks and the Dates appetizer.
My new favorite drink is thanks to The Jones Family Project.....Lavender Mojito. Bright, slightly sweet, and not overpowered with lavender. The Dates were stuffed with Chorizo and accompanied by a tomato and bean sauce. I enjoyed the appetizer although the sauce was a hint too sweet and the portion size was very small. (3 dates).
Greg ordered a Burger topped with Oxtail and thoroughly enjoyed his meal (large portion size). I ordered the Pork chop with savoy cabbage and chorizo saute, and Kentish applesauce. Large portion size, tender pork chop, and delicious vegetables. The piece that surprised me the most was the applesauce. I hate applesauce normally but this was wonderfully delicate and smooth. We also ordered two sides. Pink salt Anya potatoes were tender and flavorful. Roasted brussel sprouts looked wonderful and Greg ate them all up. Sadly I couldn't try them as I'm allergic to Avocados.
We also visited The Jones Family Project several nights during the week for just drinks. The staff both upstairs and downstairs are wonderful, the food terrific, and the drinks and superb. I highly recommend a visit to this restaurant.
78 Great Eastern St, London EC2A 3JL, United Kingdom
We were escorted downstairs and immediately I liked the low lighting, warm colors, and modern furnishings (with a vintage twist). We started our meal with drinks and the Dates appetizer.
My new favorite drink is thanks to The Jones Family Project.....Lavender Mojito. Bright, slightly sweet, and not overpowered with lavender. The Dates were stuffed with Chorizo and accompanied by a tomato and bean sauce. I enjoyed the appetizer although the sauce was a hint too sweet and the portion size was very small. (3 dates).
Greg ordered a Burger topped with Oxtail and thoroughly enjoyed his meal (large portion size). I ordered the Pork chop with savoy cabbage and chorizo saute, and Kentish applesauce. Large portion size, tender pork chop, and delicious vegetables. The piece that surprised me the most was the applesauce. I hate applesauce normally but this was wonderfully delicate and smooth. We also ordered two sides. Pink salt Anya potatoes were tender and flavorful. Roasted brussel sprouts looked wonderful and Greg ate them all up. Sadly I couldn't try them as I'm allergic to Avocados.
We also visited The Jones Family Project several nights during the week for just drinks. The staff both upstairs and downstairs are wonderful, the food terrific, and the drinks and superb. I highly recommend a visit to this restaurant.
Banh Mi 11 (Now closed)
101 Great Eastern Street London EC2A 3JD
At first it was a bit disappointing. Banh Mi 11 was out of the dish Greg wanted and they were also out of the bread for Banh Mi's. With the help of the staff we ordered two Crackling Pork Belly dishes over rice, a mini beef pho, and a couple spring rolls. Here was the depth of flavor, spice, and salt I had been craving all day!!! The pork belly was luxurious with the a nice bit of crunch, the rice fluffy, and the vegetables perfect. The beef pho was jam packed with spice and warmth. The spring rolls were good but at room temperature it wasn't to my taste.
Later in the week I did go back for a Banh Mi. The meat and rice combination is much better. The baguette these use is a french baguette not the typical crusty bread you normally receive for a Banh MiI highly recommend a visit when in the mood for bold and bright flavors!
101 Great Eastern Street London EC2A 3JD
At first it was a bit disappointing. Banh Mi 11 was out of the dish Greg wanted and they were also out of the bread for Banh Mi's. With the help of the staff we ordered two Crackling Pork Belly dishes over rice, a mini beef pho, and a couple spring rolls. Here was the depth of flavor, spice, and salt I had been craving all day!!! The pork belly was luxurious with the a nice bit of crunch, the rice fluffy, and the vegetables perfect. The beef pho was jam packed with spice and warmth. The spring rolls were good but at room temperature it wasn't to my taste.
Later in the week I did go back for a Banh Mi. The meat and rice combination is much better. The baguette these use is a french baguette not the typical crusty bread you normally receive for a Banh MiI highly recommend a visit when in the mood for bold and bright flavors!
Ms Cupcake
408 Coldharbour LaneBrixton, London SW9 8LF UK
The shop is cute, the staff are friendly, and the offer a pretty good variety of vegan cupcakes (some gluten free as well). I chose a set of 4 cupcakes. The Ambassador (ferrero rocher flavoring), Strawberry Champagne (gluten free), Rhubarb and Custard, and Red Velvet. I wish I could say all were wonderful but there were a couple of flaws. To start with the good is to start with The Ambassador. This cupcake is moist, rich, and very flavorful. The Strawberry Champagne was also moist (especially for a gluten free cupcake) and the flavor was subtle but nice. The Rhubarb and Custard cupcake had a nice flavor however the frosting was too thick and dried out. The Red Velvet cupcake wasn't to my liking at all. A Red Velvet cupcake should be a balance of sweet, rich, and tang. Unfortunately, this cupcake was overly sweet. I would definitely go back especially for The Ambassador but I would give their other cupcakes a try too!!
408 Coldharbour LaneBrixton, London SW9 8LF UK
The shop is cute, the staff are friendly, and the offer a pretty good variety of vegan cupcakes (some gluten free as well). I chose a set of 4 cupcakes. The Ambassador (ferrero rocher flavoring), Strawberry Champagne (gluten free), Rhubarb and Custard, and Red Velvet. I wish I could say all were wonderful but there were a couple of flaws. To start with the good is to start with The Ambassador. This cupcake is moist, rich, and very flavorful. The Strawberry Champagne was also moist (especially for a gluten free cupcake) and the flavor was subtle but nice. The Rhubarb and Custard cupcake had a nice flavor however the frosting was too thick and dried out. The Red Velvet cupcake wasn't to my liking at all. A Red Velvet cupcake should be a balance of sweet, rich, and tang. Unfortunately, this cupcake was overly sweet. I would definitely go back especially for The Ambassador but I would give their other cupcakes a try too!!
Poppies Spitalfields
6-8 Hanbury St, London E1 6QR, United Kingdom
is a really cute fish and chips restaurant. It has an open air feeling thanks to the walk up counter to the left of the restaurant. The staff were friendly, fast, and obviously had a well constructed plan. We placed an order for Cod and chips, Haddock and chips, and an order of fish cakes. The fish was fresh, the coating crispy, and the chips were hot. Add some malt vinegar and salt and you have a very tasty casual meal!
6-8 Hanbury St, London E1 6QR, United Kingdom
is a really cute fish and chips restaurant. It has an open air feeling thanks to the walk up counter to the left of the restaurant. The staff were friendly, fast, and obviously had a well constructed plan. We placed an order for Cod and chips, Haddock and chips, and an order of fish cakes. The fish was fresh, the coating crispy, and the chips were hot. Add some malt vinegar and salt and you have a very tasty casual meal!
Rosa's Thai Cafe
12 Hanbury Street London E1 6QR
Rosa's is a small restaurant but a friendly atmosphere. We lucked out that a table was available right when we walked in. Immediately after us there was a wait for 3 other couples.
We ordered a couple Chang Beers (from Thailand) and an order each of Calamari and Spring Rolls. The calamari was crispy and had a good mix of salt and heat. The spring rolls were basic but good. I ordered the vegetable and tofu Pad Thai. The dish was lovely and perfectly balanced. Greg ordered fried rice and the Spicy Seafood Hot Plate. He devoured the seafood and claimed the fried rice to be almost as good as our friends mothers. All of the food had depth of flavors and perfect seasoning.
We ended the night with some Mekhong Whiskey. It turns out that it's not really a whiskey but made up of molasses and rice. Either way it was tasty and smooth. I recommend a visit to Rosa's Thai Cafe for wonderful food and service.
12 Hanbury Street London E1 6QR
Rosa's is a small restaurant but a friendly atmosphere. We lucked out that a table was available right when we walked in. Immediately after us there was a wait for 3 other couples.
We ordered a couple Chang Beers (from Thailand) and an order each of Calamari and Spring Rolls. The calamari was crispy and had a good mix of salt and heat. The spring rolls were basic but good. I ordered the vegetable and tofu Pad Thai. The dish was lovely and perfectly balanced. Greg ordered fried rice and the Spicy Seafood Hot Plate. He devoured the seafood and claimed the fried rice to be almost as good as our friends mothers. All of the food had depth of flavors and perfect seasoning.
We ended the night with some Mekhong Whiskey. It turns out that it's not really a whiskey but made up of molasses and rice. Either way it was tasty and smooth. I recommend a visit to Rosa's Thai Cafe for wonderful food and service.
Balthazar London Boulangerie
4-6 RUSSELL STREET LONDON WC2B 5HZ
Inside the Boulangerie is a warm, inviting, and delicious little cafe. Luckily, a seat at the window counter was open allowing me to dine in and people watch. I ordered a Tuna Provencal sandwich and a pot of tea. The staff were friendly, offered suggestions, and were efficient. The sandwich was crunchy, flavorful, and nicely balanced.
4-6 RUSSELL STREET LONDON WC2B 5HZ
Inside the Boulangerie is a warm, inviting, and delicious little cafe. Luckily, a seat at the window counter was open allowing me to dine in and people watch. I ordered a Tuna Provencal sandwich and a pot of tea. The staff were friendly, offered suggestions, and were efficient. The sandwich was crunchy, flavorful, and nicely balanced.
Bar Boulud
Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park66 KnightsbridgeLondon, SW1X 7LA
We were greeted and offered to have our coats hung. Even though we were a tad too early the host seated us right away. I was impressed from the start but what happened next was wonderful. This is was the first restaurant (even NYC, Miami, etc) that actually took the time to read the notes in Open Table and acknowledged that I have a dairy allergy.
Our waiter was extremely helpful, friendly, and knowledgeable. He would also admit if he didn't know of the particular ingredients in a dish he would double check for me. We started our dinner with The Charcuterie per deux. We had a salted ham, salami, head cheese, beef cheek, and a rabbit terrine. Accompanying the dish were mustards, toast, onions, pickles and a small salad (had a dairy dressing though). I went completely out of my comfort zones when trying these dishes. I'm glad I did try new things. The selections were all a beautiful mix of flavors, textures, and colors.
For an entree we chose the duck for two. We received a sliced duck breast, confit leg, cabbage saute, and a warm salad topped with duck and pine nuts. Greg did enjoy a side of au jus (contained dairy). The duck was luscious and seasoned properly. I was shocked that I enjoyed the heart and liver the most. Never did I imagine I would actually eat those cuts and definitely not enjoy them but I did. Even though I do eat meat regularly I still get the occasional bouts of guilt. Greg did make a good point that even thought we were eating meat we were eating more consciously at this meal. There was no waste vs. if we had just eaten a chicken breast.
We ended the night with dessert. A lovely rich chocolate cake for Greg and a coconut sorbet for myself. For amazing service, fabulous food, and a nice atmosphere I highly recommend a visit to Bar Boulud.
Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park66 KnightsbridgeLondon, SW1X 7LA
We were greeted and offered to have our coats hung. Even though we were a tad too early the host seated us right away. I was impressed from the start but what happened next was wonderful. This is was the first restaurant (even NYC, Miami, etc) that actually took the time to read the notes in Open Table and acknowledged that I have a dairy allergy.
Our waiter was extremely helpful, friendly, and knowledgeable. He would also admit if he didn't know of the particular ingredients in a dish he would double check for me. We started our dinner with The Charcuterie per deux. We had a salted ham, salami, head cheese, beef cheek, and a rabbit terrine. Accompanying the dish were mustards, toast, onions, pickles and a small salad (had a dairy dressing though). I went completely out of my comfort zones when trying these dishes. I'm glad I did try new things. The selections were all a beautiful mix of flavors, textures, and colors.
For an entree we chose the duck for two. We received a sliced duck breast, confit leg, cabbage saute, and a warm salad topped with duck and pine nuts. Greg did enjoy a side of au jus (contained dairy). The duck was luscious and seasoned properly. I was shocked that I enjoyed the heart and liver the most. Never did I imagine I would actually eat those cuts and definitely not enjoy them but I did. Even though I do eat meat regularly I still get the occasional bouts of guilt. Greg did make a good point that even thought we were eating meat we were eating more consciously at this meal. There was no waste vs. if we had just eaten a chicken breast.
We ended the night with dessert. A lovely rich chocolate cake for Greg and a coconut sorbet for myself. For amazing service, fabulous food, and a nice atmosphere I highly recommend a visit to Bar Boulud.
Wright Brothers Spitalfields
8/9 Lamb Street, Old Spitalfields Market, London E1 6EA
The host greeted us and offered to hang our coats. The next part was a tad weird but we pushed past it. The host told us that he had us seated in the "drinking" bar area (even though we made dinner reservations online) but that he would move us to the seafood counter as long as it wouldn't be more than 2 hours.
On to the amazing. The seafood and portion sizes are fabulous. We started with 6 French oysters and 6 U.K oysters. The French were slightly salty and medium size (my favs) and the U.K were very briny and also medium size (Greg's fav). The next dish we ordered was grilled Squid. The squid was rather large but nice and tender. They were season with lots of garlic, fresh herbs, and fresh lemon. Bright flavors and a hint of spice from the garlic. My entree was the Skrei Cod (perfectly cooked). This was accompanied by potatoes in a garlic and herb sauce (similar to a chimichurri). The sauce was delicious although the garlic was a bit too much. Greg's entree was the salt baked Sea bream. Watching the staff de-crust and fillet the fish was a show all on its own. Beautifully executed and done with ease. The flavors and accompaniments were also outstanding.
8/9 Lamb Street, Old Spitalfields Market, London E1 6EA
The host greeted us and offered to hang our coats. The next part was a tad weird but we pushed past it. The host told us that he had us seated in the "drinking" bar area (even though we made dinner reservations online) but that he would move us to the seafood counter as long as it wouldn't be more than 2 hours.
On to the amazing. The seafood and portion sizes are fabulous. We started with 6 French oysters and 6 U.K oysters. The French were slightly salty and medium size (my favs) and the U.K were very briny and also medium size (Greg's fav). The next dish we ordered was grilled Squid. The squid was rather large but nice and tender. They were season with lots of garlic, fresh herbs, and fresh lemon. Bright flavors and a hint of spice from the garlic. My entree was the Skrei Cod (perfectly cooked). This was accompanied by potatoes in a garlic and herb sauce (similar to a chimichurri). The sauce was delicious although the garlic was a bit too much. Greg's entree was the salt baked Sea bream. Watching the staff de-crust and fillet the fish was a show all on its own. Beautifully executed and done with ease. The flavors and accompaniments were also outstanding.
Honest Burger
Camden Market
When visiting Camden Market we stopped for lunch at Honest Burger. We ordered two Burgers (mine with the gluten free bun since its also dairy free). The burgers were tender, a tad salty, and covered with delicious red onion relish! Accompanying the burgers were fries with rosemary, thyme, and salt. At first I loved the French fries. They were hot, crispy, and full of flavor. To this day I still remember this burger and fries and can't wait to return!
Camden Market
When visiting Camden Market we stopped for lunch at Honest Burger. We ordered two Burgers (mine with the gluten free bun since its also dairy free). The burgers were tender, a tad salty, and covered with delicious red onion relish! Accompanying the burgers were fries with rosemary, thyme, and salt. At first I loved the French fries. They were hot, crispy, and full of flavor. To this day I still remember this burger and fries and can't wait to return!
The Hoxton Hotel
81 Great Eastern St, London EC2A 3HU, United Kingdom
+44 20 7550 1000
Check in was easy and friendly. There was some construction going on in the hotel but the staff gave us a quieter room thanks to us spending the week there. We were given room 331 (on the third floor). The room is a bit on the small side but definitely wallet friendly.
The room offered a full size bed, desk with chair, large reading chair, flat screen TV that swivels, tea kettle, glasses, wine opener, mini fridge, safe, and a radio. The bathroom was of good size and offered a toilet area, walk in shower, sink (large countertop), lovely bathroom amenities, and wonderful towels. The down side to this room is the storage space. There are no drawers and a very small area to hang clothes (without closet doors).
While staying at the hotel we used the laundry service twice. The laundry service is on the high side but the end result was wonderful. We also enjoyed drinks in the lobby (very busy all of the time so you are lucky when you actually find a seating area). The drinks were delicious especially the Porn Star Martini but again it’s on the higher side of pricing.
What makes this hotel a great place to stay is the area. You are surrounded by wonderful restaurants, bars, shops, galleries, and so much more. You have the feel of London without all of the tourists. As an added bonus you are just a short hop on the Tube from anywhere you want to go.
The room offered a full size bed, desk with chair, large reading chair, flat screen TV that swivels, tea kettle, glasses, wine opener, mini fridge, safe, and a radio. The bathroom was of good size and offered a toilet area, walk in shower, sink (large countertop), lovely bathroom amenities, and wonderful towels. The down side to this room is the storage space. There are no drawers and a very small area to hang clothes (without closet doors).
While staying at the hotel we used the laundry service twice. The laundry service is on the high side but the end result was wonderful. We also enjoyed drinks in the lobby (very busy all of the time so you are lucky when you actually find a seating area). The drinks were delicious especially the Porn Star Martini but again it’s on the higher side of pricing.
What makes this hotel a great place to stay is the area. You are surrounded by wonderful restaurants, bars, shops, galleries, and so much more. You have the feel of London without all of the tourists. As an added bonus you are just a short hop on the Tube from anywhere you want to go.
