Welcome to this new section of the blog where I will list my favourite item/eatery/gadget/book/thing to do/product or anything other nugget that tickled my fancy through the month. I realise that it’s not ideal that I am already a few days late in posting my first monthly column, but sometimes things just don’t go to plan…….
I would love to hear any of your best finds or items that are indispensable in your home. Please share your comments or thoughts below. And I hope you enjoy this new addition.
November Bites
Cookbook of the month –Breaking Breads
It is no secret that my first stop when either in New York City or Tel Aviv is at one of Uri Scheft’s eateries. Babka from Breads Bakeryor Lechamim Bakery is unrivaled anywhere, and now I can at least make a feeble attempt to make them at home. And if you want to improve your challah game, or just learn more about how to bake bread in a clear and approachable manner this book has it all.
My new canteen –Clipstone Restaurant
Some may joke that this is my new canteen, and to be fair I cannot argue. I am definitely not the first to wax lyrical about the total fabulousness of this relative newcomer to the Fizrovia gang and sister to Portland Restaurant (another haunt of mine). From the warm welcome at the door, to the calm interior, to the killer aged Negroni, an ever changing selection of deletable plates that you can share (even though I would rather scoff them all myself), to the best Paris Brest I have ever tasted. Go. Just go. But make sure there is still a seat for me.
Winter hand saver –Farmers Hand Cream
I honestly think my hands maybe would have flaked away completely in the past few weeks with the drop in temperature. Let’s be clear, I am not short of a product or two, but beautifully cared for hands are not to be found at the end of my arms. This cream is my guardian angel. Originally formulated for Welsh farmers (just about the polar opposite of my life), and with the best packaging and logo around this is a must have and a saviour for my un-gloved hands constantly in the sink. Nancy will be at the Monocle Christmas Market this weekend with all her wares including her creams, beautifully woven blankets, socks, chocolate and my favourite apron.
Chocoaholic’s dream –Pump St Bakery Library of Bars
The perfect gift for the chocolate lover. 10 bars of the excellent Pump Street Bakery bean to bar chocolate in a beautifully designed box. Who could ask for more than that? And if you can, add some of their bread to your order too. Some of the best I have ever eaten.
Genius whisk –Probus whisk
I have owned countless whisks in every shape, size and style over the years, but none even comes close to this one that I stumbled upon in the Ballymaloe Shop. I have never seen one anywhere else, so when I returned last summer I bought six more. Just in case.