The debate about the future of formalised experiences and fine dining is akin to Brexit; three commentators, four opinions. Many critics have stated repeatedly that several high-profile closures – including Claude Bosi’s Hibiscus in 2016 – combined with a general consensus that consumers prefer ‘casual dining’ is evidence enough thatContinue Reading
James Lawrence braves building noise in one of London’s busiest areas in order to down cocktails and eat oysters. The man’s devotion to his readers knows no bounds… If location really is everything, then Vivi is possibly London’s most divisive restaurant; situated at the Tottenham Court Road/Charing Cross Road intersectionContinue Reading
James Lawrence visits Kahani and experiences subtlety with power, and confidence with restraint. So far, I really like it. Admittedly, I have only just put my foot through the door but I have already received a warm welcome from the manager – and the smell is enticing. I’m sitting inContinue Reading
You would be forgiven for doubting your sat-nav on the approach to the Jack Russell Inn in Faccombe. Driving through the trees, the green canopy pierced here and there by shafts of sunlight, it feels as though you’re driving into the depths of a forest, and should be leaving breadcrumbsContinue Reading
I’m quite sure there is an unwritten law that states: when spending any amount of time in Canada you must, at some point, stay – if even for just one night – in a log cabin by a lake, preferably with a log burning stove and a plentiful supply ofContinue Reading
James Lawrence explores some of the best Chinese restaurants in London, and takes a look at the move towards regionalism. The last decade has seen our appreciation of Chinese cuisine move far beyond the staples of sweet and sour pork, spring rolls and special fried rice. Regionality has become allContinue Reading
There are many contestants for the title of Cardiff’s best Indian restaurant, but in my opinion the Purple Poppadom has few peers. There is something about its sophisticated, refined take on Indian cuisine that always lures me back whenever I’m visiting the Welsh capital. The cooking, the service, the wineContinue Reading
When family and friends discovered that I was due to travel to Belgium and Germany relying solely on public transport – predominantly rail – they could hardly contain their mirth. “You’ll be bored witless” (I’ve edited slightly), came one response. “Why would you use trains when the flight is lessContinue Reading
It’s tempting to dismiss restaurants such as Skylon. With 180-degree views of the Thames, the allure of simply cashing in on its pole position appears to be irresistible. Like the fraudsters who serve oceans of dross in Europe’s most heavily touristed cities, Skylon’s owners have little reason to try. TheContinue Reading