Venison Carpaccio
Humble Grape Islington

Humble Grape Islington

11-13 Theberton Street, London I-N1 0QY, United Kingdom

Wine • British • European • Vegetarian


"For my main course, I had the Rump Steak, which was cooked rare as per the butcher's recommendation on the menu. This was truly the best steak I can recall. It had an incredible smokiness, as if it had been grilled over coal. I suspect they use a grill capable of reaching very high temperatures, providing a steak that's far superior to anything cooked at home. It was served with hearty chunky chips, a few sautéed green beans, some unsweetened arugula, and watercress, accompanied by a delicious herb butter. I didn't taste my companion's hake fillet dish, but it looked wonderful. It featured crispy skin and a lemon-butter emulsion with fresh mint, along with pan-roasted cucumber. For dessert, I ordered the dark chocolate fondant, which was beautifully executed with a gooey center. It was topped with a crispy mix of nuts and crushed pralines, adding a delightful crunch. My companion had the crème brûlée with fresh berries. The rich custard was sprinkled with some celestial flakes beneath the caramel top, which was caramelized to a rather dark shade. Personally, I prefer the complexity of a dark caramel that possesses a slightly bitter edge. We enjoyed a bottle of rosé Grenache, which was excellent and fruity. I also ordered a glass of the house red to accompany my steak. We took advantage of some discounts at the beginning, but at full price, our meal including service would have totaled £97—and it was worth every penny. Don’t forget to check out the stylish restrooms, complete with artistic cork designs that align with the overall theme."

Skye

Skye

The Flodigarry Hotel, IV51 9HZ, Highland, United Kingdom

Tea • Food • Beer • 4-star


"Touring around The Isle of Skye and While visiting Skye, we saw a sign for the 'Skye Soup Kitchen ' within the Flodigarry Hotel. Two further signs on route advertised soup served 10am until 4pm. We pulled up outside at 3.10pm and, through the window could see 2 tables of customers with full bowls of soup. Once inside we stood at the 'please wait to be seated ' sign for 5 mins before a member of staff looked up from folding napkins and came to speak to us. By this time 2 other sets of customers were queueing behind us. We said we were here for soup and were advised that the kitchen might be closed. The staff member went to check with the chef, first of all confirming that it was a table of 3, a table of 2 and a table of 4. He came back saying the kitchen was closed as they hadn 't served anyone in the last half hour. Not sure how the two tables of people eating at the window managed to have full bowls of soup 10 mins before! We were however offered the option of a scone in the bar. My husband said this was disappointing considering the 3 signs en route. The staff member said they were considering changing them. As we left, this staff member and another who had appeared made a face at one another. I said to the 2nd staff member that I had seen them this was unprofessional. Her initial reply was he has pain pointing to her stomach and then the 1st member of staff before then denying anything had happened. We asked to speak to the manager. After waiting 10 mins she had not appeared. Perhaps she is still considering coming to speak to us as well as considering changing the times on the roadside advertising. So if you are considering The Flodigarry Hotel, my advice is avoid it so you are not disappointed!"