Lunch At Yard & Coop Liverpool | Just Add Ginger

A few weeks ago, I was struck down with hand foot and mouth disease. After a really shitty week of isolation, hardly any sleep, skin that I wanted to tear off my body, and generally feeling sorry for myself, to say I had cabin fever was an absolute understatement! So in order to get some semblance of normalcy back, and to say thank you to Ryan for being an absolute hero for putting up with me and looking after me, I decided to take us to Yard & Coop as a bit of a lunchtime treat one Saturday. 

Yard & Coop has been top of the list of places I've wanted to try out since before Christmas. I was actually invited down to an event there in December but due to a combination of work and a family birthday I was unable to attend. But their menu stuck with me, and as a big fan of anything battered and chicken-y, I just knew I had to head down there at some point and see if the food tasted as good as it sounded.

Heading down the stairs to the main restaurant space, I was really impressed with how aesthetically pleasing everything was. Set in what looked like an old warehouse, the industrial-style fixtures and original building features made for an intimate and cosy atmosphere, which was added to by the inclusion of a designated "Coop" booth seating area towards the back of the restaurant. 

After spending most of the previous evening perusing the menu, there was no doubt about what I wanted to order. But with such a wide variety of dishes from which you could choose, Ryan asked for some guidance from one of the front of house team. With all dishes under £20, light bites, large plates and salads to sample, I think for a first-time visit it is definitely worth getting some input as to what some of the staff's recommendations are. If you're as indecisive as me, you could be sat there for a long time otherwise.

Fortunately, with choices narrowed down, we ordered quickly and waited for our food to arrive. At the time we went to Yard & Coop, it was relatively quite, and service was really prompt - something I was incredibly grateful for (don't cross a hangry heavily pregnant woman)! 

Deciding to try something a bit different, I opted for the "Not chicken nuggets" (aka crumb coated halloumi) with chips, a side of Mamma Mia sauce, and slaw. The only thing that was a little frustrating when it came to ordering was the selection of sauces. In between mega spicy ones, ones containing ingredients I can't have, and BBQ based options, choices were a tad limited. But this is no fault of Yard & Coop, and entirely circumstantial. (If I wasn't up the duff I would have nailed that blue cheese sauce!) Ryan went for the boneless thigh, chips and both Bourbon BBQ and Blue Cheese sauce coupled with a cheeky Gamma Ray. 

I think it's testament to how good a plate of food is if you get totally engrossed in eating and ignore everything else around you. And for the first few minutes this was definitely us. We must have looked like a right anti-social pair, but the food was just so delicious neither of us could help it. My haloumi came out hot, creamy and melt-in-the-mouth and really hit the spot, whilst Ryan boldly commented that the chicken was some of the best he has ever had. Of course with such a statement I had to have a nibble and it was really delicious - the perfect blend of succulent meat and crunchy crumb - definitely something I need to order for myself next time! 

I was really impressed with the portion size. It was perfect for lunchtime, and comfortably filling. Yeah, sure, I couldn't quite finish everything, but I'd rather that than to be left wanting. And I think for anyone else, the plate size would be perfect. Forever on the lookout for a new and affordable place to stop by when we're in town, where you always get bang for your buck, Yard & Coop definitely made it to one of the top spots. 

Even though our bellies were full, we just couldn't leave without having at least some kind of dessert. It was my duty as a food lover and blogger and a sacrifice that just had to be made! Deciding to be sensible and share, we opted for an Oreo milkshake. Incredibly smooth, without those annoying bits that clog up your straw, and undeniably more-ish, this was the perfect way to round off our meal. So involved in polishing off our shake we didn't even realise there had been a mix-up and we'd actually been given a Nutella one instead. It didn't bother us at all (we hadn't even noticed the difference in flavour) but it was lovely that the staff were so apologetic and willing to make us a new one. 

So, would I head back to Yard & Coop? Oh yes! I think the concept is just brilliant - the blend of chicken dishes and a super-cool setting make for a really refreshing change to our usual L1 haunts, and it's great knowing there'll always be something on the menu that I want to eat. And with a range of affordable dishes (I think the most expensive is £15.00) there is something to suit all budgets, whether for lunch, light bites or dinner. 

For more details about Yard & Coop, head over to their website. Headed there already? Let me know what your favourite dish was in the comments.

Not Just A City, It's Family | Just Add Ginger

I moved up to Liverpool eight years ago this year, and I've never looked back. Growing up in a small town just outside of London, as soon as I'd finished university I knew I wanted to plant my roots somewhere fresh, new, and completely different. I may not be born and bred in this city, but to all intents and purposes, I am an honorary Liverpudlian. This city captured my heart, and I am definitely one of its own. 

But just what is it about this city that has this hold on me? Aside from being a place that is steeped in history, culture, and art, Liverpool isn't just a city. It's family. It's a place that welcomes you at the door with open arms, ushers you in, and wraps a big arm around you. It takes you in, and immediately takes you under its wing. It doesn't matter where you are, what you do, or where you come from, you will always be greeted with a big smile and a hug. (And yes, just thinking about it now makes me very emotional!) 

Over the years I have lived here, not only has the skyline changed, with the construction of new buildings and re-development of areas, but there has been an ever-growing buzz in the air. Maybe the city being named 2008's Capital of Culture sparked this, but since then, there has been so much love put in to the city, and it has been given the opportunity to show exactly what she's made of. With exciting events constantly going on (food & drink festivals, the Christmas markets, art exhibitions and more) and the city seeming ever-increasingly busy, Liverpool has become a hub of excitement. And it's just what she deserves.

If I had to choose one song that truly epitomises Liverpool, it would be Here Comes The Sun by The Beatles. No matter what kind of day you've had, or what you're going through, there will always be something to go or someone to see to instantly put that smile back on your face. And what more could you ask for from the place that you call home?

Want to find out more about Liverpool, and take a peek at just how much this city has grown, head to Travelodge's Evolving Cities website. Oh, and if yo're planning on visiting the city let me know. 

With so much to do, see and explore, I'll guarantee you'll be coming back for more!

Bees, Flowers & Whiling Away The Hours | Just Add Ginger

It seems so long since I put fingers to keys and updated you all on how life in my Just Add Ginger-y world has been going. And I'm sorry. If you caught this vlog from my YouTube channel that I uploaded a few weeks ago, hopefully you'll know why. But now I am back, better, and ready to return to my blogger-self! 

My parents are up visiting for a couple of days, and, because we are a family who are always itching for a good outing, today was spent looking at wild blooms at the National Wildflower Centre, sipping hot chocolates, and catch-ups with friends over food. 

The wild flowers at the centre were beautiful, so, iPhone in hand I quickly snapped a few shots of the blooms. There's something so therapeutic about being out amongst nature, standing, and just watching the world go by. It's a little pocket of time that is completely yours, and no matter what you are going through, it really helps you realise just how big and beautiful our world truly is. 

After a wander around the wild flowers and a quick stop at the cafe for a hot chocolate, we headed to the Childwall Abbey Hotel for a bite to eat, and a catch up with a friend of my parents. I was trying to be good, so ordered a frittata, which, was delicious, but I've just scoffed ten chocolates, so any healthy points I scored for that lunch just got flushed down the loo. (Totally worth it though!)

What have you been up to today? 

Ginger Vlogs: Pyjamas, The Park, And Homemade Chicken Soup

Life in the Ginger-Bear household is really busy, exciting and hectic at the moment. Work happens during the week, and then at the weekends we are 99.5% of the time off on an adventure...visiting family, running errands, or travelling across the country for different reasons. Having a lazy weekend is really rare for us.

Which is why - a few Sundays ago - I made the impromptu decision to pick up my phone and vlog our day. Sometimes it's really good to capture memories of what it's like to just experience a lazy Autumn afternoon. Dedicating a weekend a month where you do exactly what you want to do, with no pre-made arrangements can be so rewarding and lets you really appreciate the time you spend together. 

Boyfriend did so well making his vlogging début and filming his chicken soup recipe that I think he deserves a bit of a shout-out. If you enjoyed watching that part of the video, please leave me a comment so I can pass it on to him. He is such a good cook that I really hope he wants to film more recipes in the future (with a camerawoman who doesn't fall asleep half-way through the cooking process though!)

What are your favourite things to do on lazy Sundays? 

North West Bloggers Event: 1st June 2014

Back at the start of June, the second North West Bloggers Meet Up took place. The lovely Hannah (Words by Hannah Rosalie) spent a long time organising the event, and on a very sunny Sunday afternoon, Sarah (Saloca in Wonderland) & I headed down in to town ready to attend the event, starting off, of course, with an obligatory coffee and cake stop!

The event took place in one of the Revolution's in Liverpool. I'm not sure of the exact name of the bar but if you know Liverpool, it's the one closest to the Cavern Club...I think it's recently been refurbished, and I couldn't get over how chic it looked inside. It was the perfect venue for the meet up. Everyone seemed to congregate downstairs in the main bar prior to the event itself which gave us time to have a  life catch up and indulge in a cheeky cocktail or two. (They had my favourite cocktail on the menu...WIN!) It was so lovely to see so many bloggers again, and this time not have to tentatively use the "Are you (insert name here) on Twitter?)

After a couple of minutes hanging out downstairs we headed on up to the meet up. Unlike the first North West Bloggers Meet Up I went to, I wasn't half as nervous because I already felt like I knew some of the girls who were there. Whether we had met before, or talked on Twitter, the atmosphere was just so rich and lovely I didn't feel awkward being my stupid-self around anybody. And THAT for me is always a good sign.

Snacks and treats were set out for us to munch on throughout the day, and a barman appeared upstairs so we didn't have to constantly head downstairs to the bar. There were doughnuts and sweet-filled champagne flutes galore and Carrieanne (Beauties Unlocked) had made some cute cupcakes for the occassion. We were a very spoilt bunch indeed

Hannah had done such a fab job organising the event and having lots of lovely stalls for us to peruse. The Krispy Kreme Selfies went down a storm. I don't think I've ever laughed so much about food before! Teardrop Designs had a stall, showcasing some of their lovely jewellery, alongside Urban Calm, Rebekah Treheme who was giving airbrush foundation demos and made my face look flawless, and a company called Green Bubbles, who I had never heard of before, but do the most gorgeous handmade soaps and body products. (they had me at the Lego soap!) Hannah had also arranged a raffle again, with prizes galore. Tickets were purchased as we entered the event space, and announced throughout the event.

  What I enjoyed most about the event was chatting away for what seemed like hours (and what actually was hours) to everybody. In my "normal life" it's so hard to help people understand about blogging, what it is, and why I love it so much, but at the event, I felt like all of my questions, fears, hopes and experiences could be free and everyone there could relate to me. Hannah and I were laughing about it on the day. At the start of the year we barely knew each other, and now there we were in June, firm friends. That's how powerful blogging can be at bringing people together. 

After the actual event itself had finished, some of us may have stayed behind to partake in some *whispers* shots. After a couple of games of shot roulette, grimaces, and a final Happy Hour cocktail order, those of us who were left headed to Nandos for some post-event eats and more blogger-talk. It really was a fabulous day, and I can't wait for the next one!

Thank you so much to Hannah for organising the event and putting such a wonderful day together for us (I don't know how you do it,) to all the sponsors, to Revolution for playing host (and including a Basil Grande in your cocktail menu - you official are awesome,) and to all the lovely blogging babes who came to the event. It was fantastic to see you all, have a chat, and unabashedly shout out Mean Girls quotes with you.

You go Glenn CoCo! 

Anniversary Gift Ideas (For Him)

On 1st May, Boyfriend & I will have been together for one whole year. 

I can hardly believe it. Where has this year gone? 

Because it's our first anniversary of "togetherness," I knew I wanted to get him something special. And of course, me being me, I couldn't wait to give him his gift... 

...So he's already got it. 

I think a first anniversary gift should be something memorable, or that can be turned in to a memory. When it came to deciding what to get Boyfriend, I knew exactly what to do (don't worry it's one of the ideas above!) But I thought that for those of you out there who may need a bit more help, that I'd put together a list of my top 5 gift ideas for your guy on your special day. 

1. A Jar Of Love: This is what I made for Boyfriend. The concept is simple. A jar of love is a symbol of all the things that make up your love and affection for the person that you are with. I bought a simple mason jar from a local shop, and filled it with notes of what I love about Boyfriend, inside jokes we have, memories we share....So that when he is having a shitty day, or there are times when we are away from each other, he can pull out a "love note" and read it. It's a really inexpensive, but really personal way of expressing your love, and means that he always knows he is in your heart.

2. Going Away: Planning a trip so that you and your other half can spend quality together time is a perfect way for you to celebrate your relationship. Especially if you don't see each other that much. It doesn't have to be an expensive trip. It could be a day out at a museum, a picnic, a weekend away....Tailor it to your budget. Boyfriend and I are actually doing this as our big anniversary celebration and having a staycation in Liverpool the weekend after our actual anniversary date. Time together is precious. And with a weekend away or day out, a heap of new couple-y memories can be made. 

3. Dressing Gown: Some of you might think this is a bit of an old man gift, but I believe in the power of a really cosy, good quality dressing gown. They come in all different shapes and sizes and a good one can last you years. And every time your man goes to wear it he will think of you (especially of you give it a quick spritz of your perfume beforehand.) 

4. Watch: Like the dressing gown, I think watches can be a great gift. Especially because they are an accessory that can be worn with anything. Getting a beautiful statement timepiece is wonderful. But it's even more personal if you get it engraved with a message. It could be a special date. It could be a quote. Heck it could even be a stupid made up word or phrase you share. Whatever it is, make it personal to your relationship. That way every time he put it on, he think of you and the time you share together...! 

5. Tickets: Does he love a particular band? Want to see a certain show? What better way than to make it an experience you can share together. It may not be going to see someone you've ever heard of, but by sharing something that he enjoys, you are understanding more of his world. I bought Boyfriend Brit Floyd tickets in the summer, knowing not much about Pink Floyd music and now I love them. Every time I hear a Pink Floyd song I'm taken back to being at that gig and seeing how much Boyfriend was loving being there. Those memories are priceless! 

What would you recommend as a first anniversary gift? 

#NWBLPOOL: North West Bloggers Event

Photo Credit: Saloca in Wonderland

On 2nd March, North West Bloggers held their very first event at the Hard Days Night Hotel in Liverpool. The networking event was organised by Hannah (Words By Hannah Rosalie.) Lending an additional hosting hand was Frances (Frances Cassandra.) 

 To say that I was excited to attend would be a complete and utter understatement. This was going to be my first ever blogger-related event that I had attended, and every time I thought about it, I did a little internal jig of happiness. 

What I love so much about blogging is that I get to share my passion with an absolutely lovely community. 

We may not have ever met each other in person, but we are all out there, supporting each other. To get the chance to meet some of my fellow blogger friends in the flesh was going to be wonderful. 

The setting for the event took place in Hari's Bar - a cosy, intimate bar within the Hard Days Night Hotel - and in the adjacent function room. The location could not have been more perfect. For a first time event, the space wasn't overwhelmingly big. There was no way you felt like a dingus going up to people and striking up a conversation. A plethora of yummy treats greeted us as soon as we walked through the door....PopChips, Krispy Kreme doughnuts, Jelly Beans galore, and a stand of sensationally creamy-looking cupcakes made by Carrie-Anne (Beauties Unlocked.)

Of course, Sarah and I wasted no time and headed straight on down to the function room to investigate all the stalls. We were immediately drawn in my the Teardrop Designs table and their gorgeous array of jewellery. Being the total magpie that I am, a bracelet and necklace from their gorgeous selection made their way in to my handbag.

There were a number of stalls to explore, including ones with representatives from St Moriz, Fashion Zoo & Skinetica. I had a quick peruse over their goodies on display but then, like a moth to a flame, I was drawn over to the Lush stall (what do you mean you could have guessed?) 

Lush Spa Liverpool is - without fail - one of my all-time favourite places to go to every time I am in town. The staff are friendly, the products are divine, and, well, I think you know how I feel about the spa treatments. The stall was bright and inviting, and I spent so long talking to the staff that the time slipped away. What made it all the more exciting was that Jen Hunter  was there, giving make up demonstrations! Well, I had to jump right on to that bandwagon didn't I and sample one of the lip stains? Starting out knowing nothing about the Lush cosmetic range, after my chat with Jen, I am definitely going to be giving it a go!

L-R: Bathroom Selfies w. Sarah. ASOS Floral Playsuit. Goody Bag & Prizes

Throughout the day, a raffle table sat in the corner. At any point you could go over and buy raffle tickets in the hope of nabbing one of the fabulous prizes on offer. Of course, Sarah and I headed eagerly over and picked up our tickets. I couldn't actually believe my eyes gazing at the goodies that you could win (Thank you so much North West Bloggers.) Winners were announced through Twitter over the course of the event. Me, being me, had completely glossed over the fact that I could pick up Wi-Fi, so assuming I couldn't access the internet (no data left,) popped my tickets in to my bag and promptly forgot about them. So you can imagine my utter delight when Sarah gently nudged me and declared, "you've won something." 

I WON A HAIRDRYER!!!! OH. EM. GEE! 

My Raffle Prize, Teardrop Purchases & Goody Bag Contents

As the event began to draw to a close, we were each given a very generous goody bag absolutely fit to burst with amazing treats for us all. I was completely overwhelmed by it all and felt incredibly blessed. How lucky we were! The North West Bloggers team must've worked tirelessly to put these bags together. They were filled with products from Lush, St Moriz, Nair, Benefit, Q, Original Attire, Crown Brushes....the list goes on! 

The whole day was just wonderful and it was so lovely to meet so many marvellous bloggers from the North West. I can't thank Hannah, Frances, North West Bloggers, and all involved in putting this event together for us, setting up, and making the day so amazing. There are already talks of a second event taking place in a few months, and I cannot actually wait! 

I feel even more a part of the wonderful blogging community that's out there than ever. You can be sure that I'll be attending any other North West Bloggers events in the future. 

Beauty by Ginger: Lush Spa Liverpool - Sound Bath

This Valentine's Day was the first one that me and Boyfriend spent together. With this in mind, I wanted to plan something really special for us to do together. I am an absolute LUSH and LUSH Spa fanatic, and with Boyfriend having now become a part of this love, I had no trouble deciding what I wanted to treat us to. 

At first, I wasn't sure which treatment to go for. With so many to choose from and two The Comforter? and one Tailor Made treatment already under my belt, I was flummoxed. but, after a long conversation with one of the lovely LUSH employees, and under her recommendation, I decided to book us both in for a Sound Bath.

It was a treatment that I was a little bit hesitant about. Only for the reason that the only thing I knew about it was that it involved candles being placed in your ears. I mean, c'mon, I've never had any beauty treatment that involves flames before. You can understand my nerves.

But once Boyfriend and I had arrived at the LUSH Spa in Liverpool. My fears quickly disappeared.  

After a little wait on the shop floor (the previous treatments were running late.. Everyone was really apologetic, but we were in no hurry,) a cup of tea, and a gander at all the products (Boyfriend was made to look at -and sniff - all the things,) we were taken up to the spa by our massage therapists. 

I never grow tired of the way that going up to the spa feels like you're going round to somebody's house for a cup of tea and a slice of home-made cake. We were made to feel so comfortable and at ease by our therapists. After filling in the consultation forms and offered a glass of water, I was able to express my nerves about the whole ear candle situation, and have all my nerves quashed as they reassured me and attentively answered all my questions.

Then it was time to begin. 

Placed before us on the wooden kitchen table was a box. And as we lifted the lid surrounded by a sea of  swirling mists, inside lay two vials with "Drink Me" and two chocolate mushrooms. What a most magical way to begin any treatment. I felt a sudden sense of giddiness. Almost like the feeling you get before you tear down the biggest drop of the roller-coaster. I just had this feeling that Sound Bath was going to be a massage like no other. 

Once in the double treatment room, we were invited to take a seat. As we took in the relaxing atmosphere of coloured lights and tea candles, incense was lit, and we were shown how the tuning forks were to be used. (Having never seen a tuning fork in my life, I was very glad that what I saw before me was not a piece of cutlery!)

There is simply no way to describe the sensation of having a tuning fork placed on your skin. The immediate sense of relaxation that came over me was completely unexpected. Our massage therapists also explained the rest of the treatment and what might happen. I'm being decided cryptic with some details of the treatment. With Sound Bath, more so than the other treatments, I think what you get out of it is deeply personal, and I wouldn't want to spoil the effect for anybody. 

But trust me, you'll fall completely into a state of relaxation such as you may have never experienced before.

Boyfriend and I tucked ourselves in to our massage beds, and with a quick ting-a-ling of the bell to say that we were ready. It was time. 

Akin to the other treatments I have had at LUSH, the soundtrack to Sound Bath was just beautiful. And the treatment is choreographed in perfect time to the music. Every movement and part of the massage just flows. 

A dance on your skin. 

The treatment began with focus on my face and jaw. I've never had a facial massage before, and I don't think I'd ever realised just how amazing it could feel...Until then. 

I cannot imagine just how much tension I must carry in my face everyday, but I certainly felt any stress I had vanish almost instantly. I was so relaxed I literally thought I was going to melt in to the massage table. The massage combined with the use of the tuning forks is hypnotic and completely inexplicable. My body just gave a huge sigh of relief and I was floating. Lost in the moment and surrounded by utter relaxation. 

I don't know where I went, but I was nearly asleep on the massage table. 

When it was time for the ear candles, we were gently asked to turn on to a side of our choosing. By this point, I was completely un-phased by the candle that was about to be placed in my ear that I turned on to my side unmoved from my relaxed state of mind. 

This is the part of the treatment that I remember the most. Even though my eyes were closed, I could still see a glowing flicker of orangey-yellow warmth. It really felt like I was in front of an open log fire in a log cabin in the middle of an isolated field. It was not uncomfortable in the slightest, and felt very surreal. Boyfriend and I must have been in sync because we chose the same side to turn to for the first ear candle. 

After the ear candles came a seriously intense head massage. And by no means was thin intense in a bad way. Oh no. Having never had a head massage (but loving those mini ones you get at the hairdressers sometimes,) I didn't really know what to expect. Yet I found myself subconsciously moving in time to the movements of the massage. My head went where it needed to be placed and yet my mind stayed in its hypnotised state. 

The use of the soundtrack with the massage could not be more perfect to help bring you back floating down from your cloud and on to the ground. It gently nudges you out of a sleepy state and allows you to wake up slowly. 

Boyfriend and I stood in silence for a few minutes after the massage. I don't think either of us really realised that the treatment was over. It all seemed so surreal. 

One of our therapists greeted us after the massage and led us to the seating area. We were treated to a pot of calming, aromatic tea, and sat in our mesmerised state. I can't really explain how I felt after the massage other than to me, the world seemed more alive. I was more in tune to what was going on around me, and everything had this fresh rosy glow. I felt calm. I felt at ease. And it was wonderful.  

Sometimes it is difficult to clear our minds of the stresses of everyday life, problems we have, worries we feel. But Sound Bath gave us that time to just be. We could unwind in a place where nothing could seep in to our heads. And it was just what we needed. 

Have you tried Sound Bath yet? What did you think?

Ginger's Jollies: Yukti

I have been wanting to write up this food review ever since I first stepped foot inside Yukti, but decided to wait until I had been back at least once. I am a first impressions kinda girl, and I go on my first instincts a lot. But when it comes to food, I don't take it lightly. I need to be seriously impressed before I decide if a food experience is worth writing about.

So. With three trips so far this year under my belt, I am ready to get started. 

For the longest time since I moved up to Liverpool, the space where Yukti resides has been empty. It was merely a shell of a building, and it always made me feel really sad to drive past it and see it looking so melancholic. I always looked at it and thought, "that'd be a great site for a restaurant." 

And then, Yukti opened last year, and you can imagine how intrigued I was. Especially because my favourite Indian restaurant in the area had closed down months previously. 

But it wasn't until just before my birthday at the start of the year that me, Boyfriend and MG finally went to investigate. 

It was the décor that instantly drew me in. As soon as you enter the main dining space, you are transported out of Liverpool and in to a world of mystery, spices, and luxe. The lights are toned down, creating an immediate sense of comfort and intimacy. Flickering tealights are placed on each table, and ornate fixtures and pictures decorate the walls. The floor space is big, but not overwhelming. Tables are spaced a good distance apart from each other (so there is no risk of unsuspectingly tripping over somebody's chair leg.) And there is a separate section dedicated to booths for those who are looking for a more private dining experience. 

But what made me smile the most, is the one glass panel attached to the wall that separates the main floor from the booths. The one constant reminder of where you are and that combines beautiful Indian cuisine and exotic décor with part of Liverpool's history: a glass painting of John Lennon. It's done subtly and in keeping with the calm tone of the restaurant, and helps combine two cultures together in a seamless way. 

So. To the food. 

The first time we went to Yukti, it was on a whim and we had no idea what to expect. I was thinking along the lines of amazing-quality Indian comfort food, lovingly dished on to a plate and ready to warm me up on a cold Winter's night. So you can imagine my surprise (and utter delight) when all the food came out dressed on the plates like this: 

I mean. How gorgeous does it look? I am literally starting to dribble looking at the photos right now. To have something so beautiful placed in front of you just makes you smile inside. Especially when the portions are a great size too. The dishes were appetisingly dressed, but definitely not minuscule. 

In the three times I've been to Yukti in the past 2 months, I've had quite a variety of dishes. So instead of focusing on a few, I'll do an overall description of my food experience. 

YUM.

I'm telling you that out of al the dishes I have sampled (and I've insisted on trying mouthfuls of everyone else's food at the table,) everything has been 100% delicious!

The breads have been thick and warm....the starters innovative.....and the main courses absolutely burst with flavour. All the portions are a good size, but not overwhelming. There is not one thing that I look back on and think, "oh no, I couldn't order that again." 

Boyfriend (who is just as much of a Foodie as me) even said that he thought it:

 "wasn't just one of the best Indian cuisine restaurants in Liverpool, but one of the best restaurants in Liverpool full stop."

Yukti is honestly one of the best Indian cuisine restaurants I have ever been to. The food is entirely affordable, the atmosphere is wonderful, and the staff are genuinely so helpful and so friendly that you feel more like you've gone to a restaurant that's been there for years rather than one that is relatively recently opened. When we went back the second and third time, as soon as we walked through the door we were greeted with smiles and conversation. Considering how many people must eat there each wee, the fact that the staff remember you makes you feel even more welcome and valued as customers. 

And did I mention this happens after the main course?

Magic hand towels! 
(Not marshmallows as Boyfriend & I thought they were at first!)

If you live in the Liverpool area and haven't been to Yukti yet, I highly recommend that you give it a visit. Dining at Yukti isn't just about a meal, it's about an experience.

Have you been to Yukti yet? What did you think?

For more information, go to: 

http://www.yukti.co.uk 

Ginger's Jollies: Hanover Street Social

I am really lucky. I am in a position in the job I have where I get great holidays. I have had nearly 5 weeks off over the Summer, and it has been lovely having the time off to just recuperate, get on top of my college work (I'm studying for Playwork Level 3,) and have some time for rest and relaxation after a crazy last term (if you haven't guessed yet, I work in the Education/Childcare sector.) 

Whilst I've been having lots of time off, Boyfriend has been at work. So I wanted to take him out for a surprise night out/meal, just as a bit of light relief away from all the stress. I'd never been to the Hanover Street Social before, and nearly always go past it when I'm in town, so it seemed like the perfect place to take him. 

Our bubbly treat

The inside of the restaurant was really beautiful. There were candles on every table, and the lighting really set a romantic and relaxed atmosphere. The décor was really understated and cool, and the moment you stepped inside, you just felt relaxed and comfortable. Our waiter was really friendly and smiley too, and let us take our time in looking over the menu, which just added to the general feeling of calm and relaxation of the restaurant.

I had tried to decide what I wanted to eat before we went out, but of course, as is custom with me, when we arrived at the restaurant and saw the menu, I changed my mind. It all looked too delicious for words. So as an aperitif while we looked over the menu, I ordered us a glass of prosecco each. It's kind of become a dinner tradition to have one at the start of the meal, and this one didn't disappoint! 

For my starter, I ordered beef spring rolls with hoi sin sauce. I'd never heard of having beef and hoi sin as a combination before, so wanted to see how the flavours worked together. 

My Beef Spring Rolls

The portion size was amazing. There I was thinking that I'd get a few dainty spring rolls sitting on my plate, and BOOM, I was hit with a plate of beefy goodness. (My mouth is watering just looking at the picture I took.) There wasn't any fault I could make about the spring rolls...they were jam-packed with beef, the pastry was crispy and melt-in-the-mouth, and the hoi sin dipping sauce was the perfect accompaniment. I really appreciated the presentation on the plate (well, board) too. It was really rustic-looking and down to earth and let the food do all the talking. 

Boyfriend's black pudding starter. Sorry the photo is a bit blurry....I was a bit excited to start eating. ha

Boyfriend had the Grilled Stornoway black pudding on potato hash with poached egg and grain mustard sauce to start. 

Oh my goodness! 

I'm not over-exaggerating when I say it was to die for! The dish was so visually appealing, the egg was cooked to perfection, the potato was crispy and gorgeous, and the black pudding.....Soft and rich and succulent, scrummy and sensationally beautiful. I've only recently discovered black pudding, and I honestly don't know where I've been. This starter was the black pudding of champions. And it took all my willpower not to go in for another bite. 

Then, just when I thought it couldn't get any better, it was time for the main course...

My slow roasted belly pork. How beautiful does this look?

As a main course, I had chosen the slow roasted belly pork with Stornoway black pudding, apple and ginger puree, cabbage, bacon and sage jus. 

When it comes to food, presentation means a lot to me. If a dish looks beautiful, it sets the whole premise of the food itself. And my main was absolutely stunning. I had also completely forgotten that the pork came with black pudding as well, so I got a nice surprise when I slid my knife into the meat and found it gently resting on top of the belly pork! 

It really was a testament t how well the belly was cooked when I cut through it with just my fork (I can't use a knife and fork at the same time.) The flavour was absolutely gorgeous, and I don't really think I could have been more engrossed in eating a plate of food. The black pudding in particular was an absolutely sensational addition to the main. 

I am definitely a black pudding fanatic after this visit! 

Boyfriend's "blue" steak.

Blurry photo alert! Think I was too anxious to get chomping.

As his main, Boyfriend had the steak, and ordered it "blue" with the sauce bearnaise. I'm not a huge fan of ultra-rare steak, but I did have a bite (I just had to,) and it was a really beautifully cooked steak. I think Boyfriend really appreciated the fact that the chips came in their own separate container. 

Eating our mains was the longest stretch of silence out of the whole evening. In my eyes, that's a clear sign that the food was impeccable. When you;re too busy enjoying your meal to say that much, it's always a good indication that you're on the right track to gastronomical paradise. 

After all that delicious food, we were far too full to order dessert. So we had an after dinner drink instead. With his steak, Boyfriend had had a glass of the House Red Wine, and it was gorgeous and smelt just like Christmas. So I ordered the same drink to have after dinner. Boyfriend ordered a brandy. 

It was the perfect way to sign off a lovely Foodie evening. 

If you haven't been to the Hanover Street Social, get down there quick. The food is amazing, the atmosphere is lovely, and you get what you pay for and so much more. Not at any point did we feel rushed, and the staff were so friendly and helpful, which really helped make the evening. It was the perfect place to go to spoil the person who means so much to me!

For more information about the Hanover Street Social, go to: 

http://www.hanoverstreetsocial.co.uk/ 

Ginger's Jollies: The Monro, Liverpool

On Saturday, I am going on holiday to France with my parents for two weeks (God BLESS the Summer Holidays!) Although I'm super excited to be going away, it also means that I will not be seeing Boyfriend for two weeks. (BOO!) With the prospect of my approaching departure from Liverpool, Boyfriend suggested that we go to The Monro as a special treat! 

The Monro is a place I drive past all the time heading back home from town, but somewhere that I have never tried, although, I have always heard some amazing things about it. And with me being the Ultimate Foodie that I am, I knew I just had to give it a try. 

They do say great things come in small packages, and The Monro is no exception. The exterior is lovely and sleek, and what greets you as a beautifully understated exterior hits you with one hell of a gigantic punch of sophistication on the inside. 

We arrived with about ten minutes to spare before our reservation, so, naturally, decided to get ourselves acquainted with the bar. Whilst we were waiting for our drinks, I got the chance to have a look around the restaurant and was amazed at how pretty everything looked. The restaurant isn't exceptionally big compared to some of the others in the city centre, but what they have done with the space works really well. The décor really made you feel at home, and reminded me of the homely, comforting feeling I get when I go in to the country pubs where I grew up....Everything in there made me feel really warm and relaxed.

When it was time, were taken over to our table, and had a chance to peruse the menu. I had looked at the selection earlier in the day, but, as usual with me, was drawn in by everything when I looked at the menu again. Everything sounded just too delicious that it came to a point where I had to make a decision then hide my menu from view. I chose the Fylde Coast Quail & Chorizo Ballontine. Boyfriend had the Cumbrian Sourced Rabbit Terrine. 

Quail & Chorizo Ballontine

OH. MY. GOODNESS. 

I had bever had quail before up until this moment, so had no idea what to expect, but whatever I had pictured in my mind, I was surpassed. I mean, just look at the presentation of my starter. Stunning. That was enough for my mouth to instantly start watering. But then I tucked in to one of the portions of quail and my heart skipped a beat. The meat was so succulent and juicy, and complemented the chorizo to perfection, and the accompaniments added a fresh note to the dish. Boyfriend wanted to try some, and it was one of those moments where I was half tempted to stuff every morsel into my mouth and say:

 "Ginger doesn't share food!" 

But I didn't, because with Foodies such as we, amazing food needs to be experienced together (and I wanted to try some of the terrine!) 

The terrine was probably the best experience of rabbit I have had. The meat was tender and went perfectly with the cranberry marmalade, adding a subtle accompanying sweetness to the bacon.

Both Boyfriend and I took a risk and ordered dishes that neither of us had tried before, and our adventurousness paid off.

Both starters were a good portion size too, and definitely whetted my appetite for the rest of the meal. Absolutely beautiful start to the night! 

British Fillet Steak

Goosenargh Duck Breast


After we had finished our starters, and our plates had been collected, we did not have to wait long at all for our main course to arrive. The service was absolutely brilliant. Sometimes in restaurants  you can be waiting for ages in between courses, especially if you go during busy periods, but not tonight. Oh no. I'd say we only were plate-less for about 2 minutes. It was absolutely incredible! I decided to go for the Goosenargh Duck Breast, and Boyfriend went for the British Fillet Steak. We also decided to order a bottle of wine to go with our mains, and our lovely waitress was really prompt in bringing it over and pouring some for us. 

If I had been happy with the starters, by the main course I was floating on a cloud in Foodie Heaven! The dishes were beautiful. I had to sit in awe for a few seconds at how pretty the arrangement on my plate was. But then I caught a whiff of the duck and had to dive in.

Now, I'm a girl who gets excited about the simplest of things, so when I discovered that my duck was already in bite-sized chunks that did not need to be cut, you can imagine my delight. I did not need my knife at all. The duck was tender as anything, and my fork glided through the breast with no difficulty. The plum-chilli sauce packed a bit of a punch (there was definitely chilli in it) but the plum immediately appeared to soften the blow. And the parma ham crisp! I'm a lover of crispy things at the best of times (particularly bacon) and this just tipped me over the edge!

The stuffed tomato

Of course I had to sample the steak as well! 
Now, the waitress had chuckled at me as I gaped at Boyfriend when he asked for his steak to be blue, but when it arrived, my reservations disappeared. It wasn't actually still moo-ing, and there was no visible signs of blood on the plate. His steak was cooked beautifully, and his knife glided through the meat like it was butter. But what we couldn't get over was the tomato. 
It was delicious!

With every bite there was a new flavour to be found. All the ingredients had infused together inside the tomato and it had the most beautiful succulent favour you could imagine! We must have spent at least five minutes discussing what we could taste, and Boyfriend even asked for the menu back so that we could see if it gave us any clues. I've never had anything like it, and I only wish I knew how it was cooked so that I can try and recreate it myself!

White Chocolate Marscapone Cheesecake

Cheeseboard

Now, by this point I had had two very yummy courses, and, you might think that I was full, but when those deliciously naughty words "Would you like to see the dessert menu?" were uttered to me, I just could not resist! 

Boyfriend and I decided to order a pudding each and then share the two between us, because we had both been drawn to different things on the menu. I went for the cheesecake, and he for the cheeseboard. 
The selection of cheese that came with the cheeseboard were lovely. There was a smoked cheddar, a Wensleydale, and a cheese with what we think was onion in (there's no dessert menu online for me to double check.) The cheese was served with crackers, celery, butter and apple. It was like a wooden platter of cheesey deliciousness. The wedges were perfect to share between the both of us, and again. the food was displayed beautifully on the board! Just looking at it was enough to make my mouth water. 
After the cheese it was on to the cheesecake. And this is going to probably sound like the biggest statement of the century, but that cheesecake was within no doubt the creamiest, most yummy-scrummy-in-my-tummy cheesecake I have ever had! I don't know whether it was the marscapone, or the chocolate, or the layer of fruit on top, or everything all together, but it was stunning! And not too heavy either. It melted in my mouth and made me feel giddy.

We were the last people to leave the restaurant area, but there were still a lot of people seated in the bar, and the atmosphere was buzzing. You could tell everyone there was having a really good time, and there was a relaxed, jovial atmosphere as we left the restaurant. 
So. Final Thoughts.....If you're a Foodie looking for a place to eat in Liverpool, then I'd definitely recommend The Monro. It's a beautiful restaurant with beautiful, atmospheric decor. The food is absolutely stunningly presented, and tastes phenomenal, and the staff are really friendly. I left feeling really sated, happy, and already planning my next visit!