It was our anniversary, and as we love a good Afternoon Tea, we decided we fancied trying somewhere we've not tried before, and The Dearden was on our list, as is has great reviews and the photos make it look wonderful. It's in Haslingden in Rossendale. Booking was a nicely handled affair, with my booking being handled by a reservations site, and confirmed for me via EMail.

When we arrived, we noticed The Dearden really stands out on the little cobbled street on which it sits. It's a bright and cheerful building, with beautifully maintained flowers and plants on the fences and by the windows. The only initial problem was that we couldn't find parking, as it was street parking with time limits, however we found something nearby that was free, which was a relief. I'd say to just check the local parking options before you set off, so you know where to head.


When you step through the front door, the "new customer" bell gives a mighty "thwack" of a ring as you open the door. I don't know why but that made me smile straight away. You're greeted in a corridor by a member of staff with a cleverly wall-mounted tablet, allowing them to keep tabs of reservations and the such. We are taken into the room on the right, and seated in a corner by the window.

I would not say the seating is cramped, but as the building itself used to be an old Counting House, they only have so much room they can work with, so have a fair few tables in the room (I didn't see the other room, so can't comment), but it's more cosy than cramped, and as it's very pleasantly decorated with vintage and period decor, with lovely high ceilings and the oldies playing gently in the background, you feel comfortable right away.




We are handed the menus, which were made of wood with ironwork hinges! Unique! The menus within this interesting binder are comprehensive and tempting, mentioning special themed evenings and Afternoon Teas, the general menu, the Afternoon Tea menu, and a very impressive selection of teas available.

On this instance, as we had pre-booked Afternoon Tea, the staff were aware of our pre-order, and simply asked us which drinks we'd prefer with our Afternoon Tea. My partner opted for the Assam, and I went for the Rose Congu. These arrived first, allowing us time to relax and chat over some very lovely quality tea. The table was decorated in period fashion as you would imagine, complete with vintage lace tablecover, fresh flowers, and a bobbin as a table number. Another unique element.


Our Afternoon Tea cake stand was brought out, and with it our waitress wished us a happy anniversary, which had also been written in chocolate on the rim of the top plate, a very sweet touch indeed. We were told the sandwiches we had, and what each of the cakes and delights were, then left to enjoy. And enjoy we did! Sandwiches were tasty, but might have benefited from a chutney or mayonnaise or something to add a touch of moisture (but they were still very nice!), the scones were warm and nothing short of perfect; we were given a fruit and a plain scone each. The treats on the top tier included two of each; white chocolate dipped strawberries, a chocolate tart, raspberry cream macarons, and a little pot of rhubarb and custard. Superbly English!


We really enjoyed it. We've had some hit and miss Afternoon Teas, but this is up there with the better ones! If they just had a look at potentially enhancing the sandwiches a little, I would put this as one of my top 3 without question!

The young staff were friendly, professional, and bright eyed with smiles all round. A really nice thing to see, and made you feel both welcome and happy.

I loved some of the little details too, such as a re-purposed chair on the patio area at the front which was now a water drinking station for dogs! Lovely! A stand as you enter the tearooms lets you know that they currently only accept cash only, however they are literally next door to a shop with a free cash machine, so that's no problem.





We really enjoyed our visit, Dearden. Not just as customers, but as an anniversary treat. You really made us feel special, thank you.

Rest assured, we will be back! :)


The Dearden Tea Rooms
12 Deardengate,
Haslingden
BB4 5QJ
(01706) 557 300
http://deardentearooms.co.uk

The Dearden Tea Rooms

by on 20:18
It was our anniversary, and as we love a good Afternoon Tea, we decided we fancied trying somewhere we've not tried before, and The D...
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I must confess, I love a themed restaurant, and I've wanted to try Albert's Schloss since I very first heard about it planning to open in the former Brannigan's unit in the Albert Hall on St Peter Street in Manchester City Centre. Presumably that's also how it got the name of  Albert's Schloss, from the Albert Hall (and so Prince Albert) and 'schloss' being the German word for a castle or country manor.

We get plenty of places in the UK bigging up Indian, Chinese, Thai, Italian and Japanese food in recent years, including plenty of theming, but we never seem to get many places extolling the comforts of good German food. Admittedly in the UK, people associate German cuisine with beer, and as Albert's Schloss bills itself as a friendly bohemian bierhaus, it can certainly pull the people in, and then spring on them the delicious food they are also offering in such a fabulous venue.


I mention the venue, because I absolutely adore it. The theming is a bit of a modern restaurant, but with lots of faux foliage, a nod here and there to the idea of old alpine ski lodges, and some elements of old school German bierhauses, such as a section of long shared tables and bench seating in front of  a small cabaret stage. (I'm told good things about the cabaret, I must come back sometime to see it!). But I love the entire feel of the place. It makes you want to wander around and explore, as there's lots of things to look at and that catch the eye as you try to read your menu. The theming even extends to the toilets, which is always a sign of dedication.






When we arrive, we are asked if we have booked, which we haven't, but luckily are still shown immediately to a table, and introduced to our waitress who tells us about the specials, and hands us our 'Luncheon Service' menus. The first thing I must admit I noticed is that the drinks were very expensive in my opinion, especially the fact that I only wanted a soft drink as I don't drink; a can of Ting can retail in Tesco at 33p,  but here it's  seen as some sort of high end special drink, commanding a price of £4, as is a bottle of Coca-Cola. However, that's just my personal take on the prices. I'm sure others may find them perfectly reasonable.

The menu itself though is superb, showing off a bakery section using their own artisan baked goods, small plates, traditional Alpine classics with a modern twist, a wurst section, and a sides section that shouldn't be dismissed, as it boasts some greats!

To start, we ordered the Schloss bread tin; seeded rye, sourdough, alpine special, something called "schloaf", and whipped butter. We also ordered the roast cauliflower and aged cheddar soup.

The bread arrived in good time, but the soup didn't, leaving us to believe that the waitress may have not heard us properly, and simply assumed we were going to be sharing the bread tin between us. We didn't mind this, as it turned out the bread itself was absolutely sublime. Each piece of bread with its own distinct flavour, not overly dry, and not dull. We really enjoyed it.

But then when we finished it, the soup arrived... maybe a delay in the order system, but that's forgivable, as the soup was excellent; comforting, rich, and seriously thick, topped with sourdough croutons.



For our mains we chose the chicken schnitzel with the recommended side of "sformato", described as baked truffled potatoes with nuggets of melting Alpine cheese (who wouldn't  go for that?!), and the "sausagefest" from the wurst menu, described as all three of the haus sausages (bratwurst, currywurst, and kaiserwurst), served with german potato salad, kraut, haus salad,  and a sweet and spicy mustard.

Whilst we waited for our food, I popped to the loo, and to have a look at some  more of the theming, which is where I saw bits like a fantastic little ski lodge scene, and in the basement discovered a free photo booth allowing you to take photos of your visit, and even pin them to the wall with those of other visitors. I liked this fun touch, and couldn't help but join in!



The food arrived. At first I thought the sausage fest looked a little expensive, but then I saw that each sausage lay right the way across a large oval plate... big beasty sausages! Each of them was superb in flavour, again with their own distinct tastes. The sauerkraut and potato salad were an excellent accompaniment, with their sharp tangy and creamy flavours balancing out well with the spicy meat flavours.


The schnitzel I must admit was a little underwhelming on its own. It was a little pale on one side, and didn't have any particular flavour, although the chicken itself was lovely and juicy. Perhaps some seasoning in the breadcrumb might liven it up a little? However, when accompanied with the mayonnaise and the delicious fresh salsa verde, it worked very well. It also worked well with the sfomarto. The sfomarto. I could give this dish a paragraph all to itself. In fact I could visit JUST for this unassuming little side. It was a luscious and creamy mashed potato, with glorious globs of melty cheese throughout, and topped with crispy golden cheese and fresh chives. As a side, this is one of the best I've ever had!



At this point we were predictably extremely full. The food had been wonderful, and on a par with some of the genuine places we've visited in Berlin, but that sfomarto sent it to another world! After having a drink and a breather, we decided to at least ask about the delicious looking bakery table that was near us, laden with loaves and delicious sweet bakes. I was a little put off by the fact that it's just out there in the public, right next to a 2 person table, but luckily the people who had been sat there throughout our meal didn't look like they had the flu, so we weren't too peturbed (but seriously, maybe some covers?).



Our waitress told us the day's bakes, and so we opted for a cinnamon knot, which came with dipping  chocolate, and a chocolate orange meringue kronut (the cronut being a hybrid of croissant and donut). We also had previously read online that Albert's do a superb hot chocolate, so opted for a couple of those too.

The cinnamon roll was good, and worked really well with the unctous chocolate dipping sauce. The orange meringue kronut was very tasty. The meringue was more the type that's piped then blow-torched rather than baked in the oven, but it was still very good, with a sauce inside that lifted the whole thing.



The hot chocolates were the perfect partner to these sweet delights. A lovely rich and velvety hot chocolate, piled high with whipped cream and a chocolate dusting, and big ol' marshmallow on the side. They were superb. They often serve them with a shot of salted caramel schnapps, which I can imagine really adds something, but sadly they had none left that day,  but I would agree with our waitress that the hot chocolates really stood well on their own even without the shot.


Albert's isn't a cheap dinner for two, but it's a good one. If you have a special occasion or a birthday treat, I would definitely recommend it. The food is excellent, the venue is magnificent and fun, and the service is professional and friendly. I'm only going from the food angle though, as there's likely to be an entire different angle should you want to go and try out the beers and cocktails, and watch some live cabaret!

But well done, Albert's, we'll definitely be back!  Das ist gut, ja!


 Albert's Schloss
27 Peter Street
Manchester
M2 5QR
(0161) 833 4040
www.albertsschloss.co.uk

Albert's Schloss

by on 12:12
I must confess, I love a themed restaurant, and I've wanted to try Albert's Schloss since I very first heard about it planning t...
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I've been occasionally popping into the West Coast Rock Café on trips to Blackpool for years, to the degree that I could've sworn I'd already reviewed it, but on checking my archived posts, I apparantly haven't, which is something I will remedy right now!

Everybody who knows Blackpool knows of West Coast Rock, and anyone who is a visitor and who doesn't, should make the effort to find out, because it's well worth hunting out its blink-and-you'll-miss-it tiny front entrance, which comprises of nothing but a door with a staircase leading upwards, and some bright yellow signage. It's near the tower.


It bills itself as a family restaurant and music venue, but it is what in the USA would be known as a Dive Bar. That's not an insult in any way, it's their term for a place that is rough around the edges, casual, with a focus on good casual food and drinks, and usually live music. West Coast Rock Cafe is big on all of these, and their style inside is dark red walls and ceilings, painted wall art and illustrations, even illustrations on the tables, and old furniture. It works. It works really well for what they're doing.





The service is casual and friendly, staff treat everyone like regulars and smiles are always in view. The menu is burgers, steaks, sandwiches, classic American favourites, and some Mexican options. All the burgers are named with tongue in cheek and a sense of humour, ie a plain hamburger is called "The Boring Burger", and the rest of the menu shares the same fun and casual style, as well as the same style illustrations from around the restaurant too.



This time round we ordered a Double Decker Club Sandwich from the West Coast Favourites section, and a Hill Street Blues Burger. Waiting for your food here is perfectly pleasant too, because as well as the excellent music videos playing and music generally, the restaurant is on the first floor with wrap-around windows, making it great for people-watching over the pedestrianised streets.




The food arrived pleasantly presented. The burger was juicy, with oozy blue cheese topping caramelised onions and mushrooms, which really kicked the flavour up a few notches. The club sandwich was surprisingly filling, and with the addition of cucumber in the mix, it really gave the sandwich a bit of bite and pop. The fries on both meals were lovely and crisp and hot. One thing we noticed was that the burger came with a sauce, and we couldn't quite place what it was, was it a chilli mayo or a paprika mayo? We asked the server who told us that it was the chef's so-called 'dirty sauce', made with ingredients such as mayo, Cajun spices, and lime juice. Thing is, it's a really nice sauce, and not even mentioned on the menu, when it deserves to be, because it was something created not bought. 

The food was excellent as always, and once again even though we didn't get a starter, we had no room for dessert. I swear one day I'll be able to manage a dessert at West Coast Rock Cafe... in fact some day I might go JUST for dessert... maybe to try The Fudgezilla, but I don't know if I could bring myself to go to Blackpool and to West Coast, and NOT have their delicious food!

Give it a try, it's fun, it's casual, and it's good quality. It won't break the bank either.

 West Coast Rock Café
5-7 Abingdon Street
Blackpool
FY1 1DG
01253 751283
http://www.westcoastrock.co.uk

West Coast Rock Café

by on 10:39
I've been occasionally popping into the West Coast Rock Café on trips to Blackpool for years, to the degree that I could've swor...
at No comments:


Whilst in Wigan for an appointment, I decided to look online for places to get some breakfast or brunch whilst I was in the area. I don't know the area well, but it seems there's some good choices. The one that stood out for me, and was closest and open, was Caffè Rosso on Wigan Lane.


From the outside, Rosso is unassuming, but the first thing I notice is that at this point of the morning it can't have been open long, but there were already people dining in the outside seating, and two tables occupied inside. The inside of Rosso is modern with retro and vintage touches, but as well as being clean and pleasantly decorated and furnished, it feels welcoming. The details around the room such as newspapers and magazines for customers to read are nice, but its small details like free wifi, and books on things like trips around the British Isles that make you realise that not only are you welcome, but if you want to stay a while and relax, you're welcome to.



When I mentioned to one of the owners that I liked the feel of the place and the décor, he thanked me and said that it was a carbon copy of their living room at home, but without the television. I think I can believe that, because it's very welcoming and comfortable.

Upon reading the breakfast menu (a specific "good morning!" menu, which I like the idea of), and the main "welcome" menu on the table, the two words I would use to describe Rosso are "provenance" and "passion". The details given in the guide exude pride at listing where their foods and ingredients are sourced, their views on ethics and quality, and emphasising the home-made elements, and the awards they have earned. I like this. If you have something of quality and you know it, then by all means, shout it from the rooftops!



 As it was morning, I opted for some granary toast with marmalade and a pot of tea. I liked that I was able to ask for decaf tea, skimmed milk, and sweetener, without it being an issue that it can often be at small establishments like this.

Sounds healthy doesn't it? Only thing is, I had my eye on a particularly nice looking slab of Belgian chocolate tiffin in a cake cabinet on the main counter next to an equally delicious looking key lime pie. Well it'd be rude not to, wouldn't it? I ordered with one of the owners at the counter. He was friendly, welcoming, and professional.


The tea was perfect as to be expected, but the tiffin was really excellent! Rich and chocolatey, it was the perfect little treat, and knowing it was home-made was another nice touch. I'd be tempted to come back just for this little beast, but in seeing that they also do Afternoon Teas, I'm sure I could be persuaded to return a few times... just for research purposes of course!

As it stands, I wasn't expecting to find anything amazing early on a Monday morning in Wigan, but I found a real gem. I must explore Wigan more!

You've got something good on your hands, Rosso, and you deserve your awards and praise! I only came for a brew and some breakfast, but I left feeling great! I will definitely be back


Caffè Rosso
17 Wigan Lane
Wigan
WN1 1XR
(01942) 581 609
www.cafferosso.co.uk

Caffè Rosso

by on 19:50
Whilst in Wigan for an appointment, I decided to look online for places to get some breakfast or brunch whilst I was in the area. I do...
at No comments:
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I'm late to the party with this one, I know. Lucianos at The Millstone is a very popular Italian restaurant in Anderton, between Horwich and Adlington, towards Chorley, and has been so successful that it has also opened a sister venue at Middlebrook Retail Park. Before now I had been to neither. There's a lot of Italian restaurants around Bolton and it was hard not to think "oh, another Italian restaurant".





But this is where Lucianos is different. The first thing you notice when you walk in the door is that the staff are talking to each other in Italian... that's a good sign in a true Italian restaurant! It's decorated in a bright and modern contemporary style, showing modern Italian dining rather than the old fashioned 'Ristorante' style we often have over here with candle-filled Chianti bottles, faux grape vines and nick nacks all over the place. A couple of trendy Vespas are found on the way in, with a dining area to the left, and a modern bar area to the right, making it clear this is a modern venue, not another cheesy Italian themed restaurant.



Despite not having a reservation, we are welcomed warmly, and shown to a pleasant table where we are given our menus by a charismatic manager / maitre'd, who seems very much at home in that role, and has fine tuned his patter; he asks if we'd like any wine by the bottle, but we were only having soft drinks, so he took the glasses away with the quip, "less mess for me!", I also like that when we were browsing the dessert menu later on, he chimed in, "Remember, signori, I will never let you struggle... all desserts come with a third spoon for me". I like this. You don't get the bon viveur style head waiter so much these days, and it's nice when you find it, and it seems genuine and warm hearted.

For our starter we order Budino Nero, which is black pudding served with sweet peppers, chorizo and red wine reduction, served with crostini bread, and the Terrina a modo nostro, a duck and chicken liver pate, finished with aged brandy and port. Served with cranberry compot and crostini.

As we wait for our starters, we look around some more at the decor and the layout. I never visited this place when it was a pub, but its hard to imagine, as it's been so pleasantly decorated in white wood panelling, black photo frames of modern day Italy, and plum coloured accents in the linen, and dark plum leather effect booth seating. Very stylish.


Before too long our starters arrive, and are beautifully presented. The lighting in this venue really shows off the food well. The pate was delicious and fresh with a little salad, and the black pudding starter was simply beautiful. It was meaty but with a red wine reduction which was deliciously sweet, and worked well in contrast with the meaty flavours and richness of the chorizo. I was so impressed with it that I asked one of the wait staff if they could find out what the sauce was for me. Marvellous!



We were so impressed with the starters that we were salivating at the idea of our mains! Main courses took a little longer to arrive, but the venue was starting to get busy, so it's not surprising, plus frankly I'm happy to wait longer for good quality food cooked fresh to order.

We ordered the tagliatelle carbonara speciale, and my partner decided to try something new, and opted to try the Ravioli All'Argosta, which is egg ravioli filled with lobster in a lobster and tomato bisque.

The carbonara was presented as well as it can be, and I took the offer of fresh parmesan topping. The flavours were excellent, and it was wonderfully creamy and filling! The lobster ravioli looked... well... there's probably not many ways you can make it look good on a plate given the nature of it as a dish... but it was there on the plate... and was very tasty with a distinct flavour without being overbearing. The quality of the fresh pasta was superb too!



So our starters and main courses were both excellent, two thumbs up! We were enjoying relaxing in the atmosphere of the place too, so the wait didn't feel too bad. We were very full, but decided we simply had to try some of the desserts... you know, to properly finish off!

I ordered one of the home-made caramel cheesecakes, and my partner ordered the canolo (tube-shaped shells of fried pastry dough, filled with a sweet, creamy filling usually containing ricotta... a bit like a brandy snap). The cheesecake was tasty but a lot softer than I was expecting, probably as I've become more used to American style baked cheesecakes. The slice was a bit on the thin side, but the flavour was good, and wonderfully creamy. The canolo was also a little bit of a small portion. Admittedly it was listed as "canolo" (one) rather than "canoli" (multiple), but this one little canolo looked a bit lonely on a huge plate with a dusting of icing sugar over it. I think as a portion perhaps three of them would be a better portion and look better, but again the flavours and textures were excellent and couldn't be faulted. Delicious!



By now it was getting very busy, and we had trouble getting the attention of any of the staff to be able to ask for our bill, so I had to go to the main counter and ask the manager, but he was very friendly and gracious and brought the bill over straight away.

All in all, we were very very pleasantly pleased with Lucianos on what was a simple spur of the moment visit. The quality of the ingredients, the style of the setting and decor, and the professionalism of the staff really made this an enjoyable visit, and we will most definitely be returning! Buonisimo!


Lucianos at The Millstone
Bolton Road
Anderton
PR6 9JH
(01257) 480 205
http://www.lucianosatthemillstone.com/
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