The Athenaeum Hotel, London

We love London and we love Mayfair. Our favourite haunt for all past visits was of course Dukes Hotel. However, this time we are on a limited budget so had t o look elsewhere.

Being the same distance from Green Park station as Dukes and at only £220 a night we decided to give The Athenaeum a try.

I must say we were feeling a little worried, being such a fan of Dukes. However, we need not have been. Whilst the hotel has a different vibe to Dukes due to being a much bigger, high rise property, the value for money was great.

Included in the price was Wifi, breakfast, which included a continental buffet as well as your choice from a hot menu and tea/coffee - on the second day we were even offered a take away hot chocolate after finishing! Also included where the items in the mini bar (except spirits) which where replenished each day. This was great as there were plenty of drinks and nibbles and fruit for us to take with us each day as we went sightseeing. The nespresso machine was also a great inclusion.

Whilst the elevators felt a little cramped with more than 4 people in them, the rooms where very large with views across St James Park. 

The bathroom was fine, a little dated with a very small sink, but it was adaquate and was more than made up for by the huge size and good standard of the room. Furnished in a contemporary style with a comfortable king size bed, high tea style chairs looking out the floor to ceiling windows, pay TV, iPod dock, work station and plenty of storage we would happily stay here again.

Just across the road from the hotel was one of the the Barclays Bicycle Hire hubs. Here we paid just £2 to pedal power around the city for 24 hours. All you have to do is make sure you return the bike to a hub every 30 minutes. This worked out well as we could jump on the bikes at the hotel, ride down to hyde park, return the bokes and take out a row boat, grab another bike and get back to teh hotel for lunch, pick up another bike and zip down to Buckingham palace, return the bikes, do some sightseeing and continue all day. Even if you keep the bike a little longer, it's only a few pound, so much nicer and much cheaper than a taxi plus you get a unique view of the city, some fresh air and some exercise.

Walking distance to Buckingham Palace, Green Park Station, St James and Hyde Park, this hotel provides a value for money stay in Mayfair, especially if you are looking at staying for a few nights so want some extra space.

Puschka, Liverpool, UK

Situated on Rodney Street in Liverpool's Georgian Quarter, Puschka Opened in 2001. They have received rave reviews in the Guardian, been voted best restaurant in Liverpool and  pride themselves on creating dishes using fresh, and, were possible, local, ingredients.  This is evident level of care and attention in every dish.

On arrival you will know which table is yours, as names are cutely written on the hot pink place mats - such a nice touch and so pretty.

The menu is considered and fresh, the feel cozy, just like you are at a friends place, a friend who is extremely hospitable an excellent cook and isn't rushing you out of the door as soon as you take your last bite.

Their early bird menu £19.90 for 3 courses is great value and the dishes are homely and full of flavour. We opted for the al a carte menu on our last visit, enjoying  an entree of confit duck shepherds pie a main of venison with red wine, juniper, dauphinoise potato gratin and finishing up with the burnt English vanilla custard with lavender shortbread. 

The staff were extremely friendly, but not so much that they are intrusive. All extremely knowledgable in relation to the fantastic menu,literally able to tell us where each item was sourced from and how the restaurant is working on reducing food miles - the distance your meal travels from provider to plate. 

Each dish was well thought, fresh, tasty and just the right size that you can comfortably accommodate 3 courses. It is a haven away from the hustle, bustle and one size fits all restaurants in the city. You will leave feeling satisfied, relaxed and eager to return to this cozy bolt hole.

Highly recommended for catching up with friends.


Well done Puschka , we only wish there were more restaurants like you!


http://www.puschka.co.uk/

Jamies Italian, Liverpool City Centre, UK

The restaurant is located in a great spot in the popular LiverpoolOne development.  Sitting opposite John Lewis rather than up near the many other eateries surrounding the alfresco area up on the top level, Jaime's  is a fairly large restaurant spanning two floors.

As we dined in the less busy lunch period we were seated downstairs with the upper floor closed.  As expected, the restaurant had a nice, casual atmosphere and  friendly staff.  Only one small issue - the tables were packed in a little  too tight.

To start we opt for the Italian nachos (crispy fried 4 cheese ravioli with 'angry' arrabiata sauce).  Unfortunately, this dish was disappointing. It was a very small portion, quite bland and the alleged ‘angry' arrabiata sauce tasted suspiciously like warmed tinned tomatoes and nothing else – come on Jamie.

For our main we chose the grilled chicken (free range, boned, marinated and char grilled with warm tomato, olive, chilli and caper sauce) was a vast improvement.  Big ticks for going with free range.  The chicken was cooked to perfection and was lovely and moist.  The sauce complemented the meal and was tasty and flavoursome, without being over powering.  The 'posh chips' with truffle oil and parmesan were unfortunately less tasty and crispy that we would have liked, and again were a small portion.

As we were en-route to a meeting, it was soft drink and mineral water all round.  However, Jamie's has a decent wine list and the purchase options of by the bottle or the glass.

With great rustic themed décor (loving the old toilets will the pull flush, but beware of the hand dryers that almost blew me out of the restroom), a casual atmosphere, good, swift service and reasonable prices,  Jamie's has done well.  With a few minor improvements to portion size and either sauces or description of sauces, this place will be a roaring sauces (although, given the name on the door it will probably be a success regardless) 

Just St James, London, UK

With its location in an affluent area close to Buckingham Palace and just down from the Ritz hotel, you would think it would live up to its website statement  'Just St James Restaurant and Bar is one of the top restaurants in London'.  However, this was definitely not our experience. 

It is a very large restaurant spread over 2 levels, and to have such a large restaurant with only 2 tables seated at 7pm at night – we should have known better.....

We started with the Cornish Lobster and Watercress Ravioli with Sage Butter Sauce. The presentation was ok but we could tell before eating it that the pasta was slightly undercooked.   On tasting the dish it was obvious that it was not freshly made when ordered.

For the main we opted for the fillet of Aberdeen Angus Beef, Wilted Leaf Spinach, Nutbourne Vine Tomatoes, Armagnac Jus and also a side of buttered Jersey Royals.

Within a few seconds of the food arriving (I had managed to put one piece of potato in my mouth) the server asked if everything was ok – with a mouth full of potato I nodded as thus far it was – BIG MISTAKE (and possibly a very sneaky move – read on)

The meat was tough, chewy, grizzy and had a large lump in it?????? It was that bad that this was one of the very rare occasions that the food was such poor quality we could actually not bring ourselves to pay for one of the meals.  After discussing whether to make a complaint and offer our opinion in relation to what was served up, we mutually decided that it was unacceptable and we would make a complaint and request removal from the bill.

When the floor manager/host had finish his lengthy discussion about his upcoming sabbatical to a winery with his friend at the table next (whom we assumed from the questions asked ‘why isn’t it busy’, ‘do you have a function coming in later’, may have been an investor in the establishment) he sidled past and asked if we had finished. 

It was at this point we motioned to the offending plate and advised we were unhappy with the meat.  Straight away he swooped in with – the server checked if everything was ok after delivery and you said yes............hmmmm well that half a potato was ok.  We explained the issue was with the steak and not wanting to have one of us sit with an empty plate while the other finished their mediocre piece of meat (sans lump and grizzle but still not up to par) we had simply left the meal.  (We have a rule – if you send something back, don’t order anything else).

Most decent restaurants would have been embarrassed and offered sincere apologies.  However, this host floated away to ‘check the quality with the chef’ – after all, as long as the chef is happy who cares what the customers think – that’s the best way  to run a business isn’t it????????????

Having checked with his chef – who, due to the chit chat and lengthy schmoozing with the table next to us we learned was his father, we were advised they were happy with the quality of the meat – oh, well that’s great but they didn’t have to try and eat it.

We were clearly unhappy with the whole evening and to remedy this, the tact chosen was for the waiter to argue with us and the host to argue with us – always a good customer service strategy.   

Had we eaten half the meal and then complained we could have understood the argument, but only two bites were taken from the meat (one of those ending up in a napkin)

We found the staff rude and condescending and it seems there is clearly a lack of understanding in relation selecting and cooking meat.

Based on our experience, we were left wondering how the place is still open.  Clearly they rely on corporate functions – but even if we were on the corporate credit card or a work Christmas party, we still would have complained about the meat!!!

After it appeared the investor/friend, had begun to take note (and that we could no longer be bothered with his rude attitude further ruining our night and given up the argument) the host took the service charge off and shunted us towards the door.

Will we go back???? never

Dukes Hotel, London

Dukes is one of those hotels that feels like a home away from home.   Whilst being near to all that London has for offer you can return to the serenity and calm of your room whenever needed.  

The hotel is located St James Place, in in a leafy affluent area close to the famous Ritz Hotel and within walking distance to Buckingham Palace as well as being handy for Petticoat Lane Markets, High end shops and Picadilly Circus (but out of the way enough if you know what I mean).

The hotel is on the main tube line meaning you don't have to be out all day, you can pop in and out whilst still staying on the tourist track.  Its a quick 1 stop to Hyde Park and the second stop takes you to the famous Harrods Department Store in Knightsbridge.  Within walking distance for any traveller Buckingham Palace (an easy and breezy 8 min stroll). In fact, if you want to, you could do all the attractions on foot - if you up for a day of strolling.  If not, the nearest tube station is Green Park or you could jump on one of the sightseeing buses from the top of the street just near the Ritz.

After undergoing redecoration, the hotel is covered in relaxing muted tones and always has fresh flowers in common areas and rooms - these are changed regularly  we did see a very busy florist tending to the arrangements twice during one of our stays.

All rooms we have stayed in were elegant, cosy, clean, provided good quality linens, slippers, robes, toiletries and were a reasonable size.  On one stay we had the pleasure of staying in a suite - my goodness it was like a full sized apartment and we did not want to leave.

The hotel can lay claim to something we now see as a rarity - a high quality room service menu that was delivered fresh and tasty.  We ordered dinner twice during our stay enjoying the venison and beef fillet.

At first we had thought the price for break fast was a little steep.  However, we needed an early start so decided to order.  On receiving breakfast in our room at our specified time, we found it well worth the price (please see image - this is ONE breakfast).  There was a fantastic range of choices to be included and all we had t o do was fill out our card specifying our selection and required delivery time.

The hotel has a elegant drawing room and conservatory overlooking a lovely courtyard which is perfect for afternoon tea and the sophisticated bar prides itself on making the best Martini in town.

A health club is located within the hotel providing a wide range of services.  However, on each trip we neglected to use it due to being preoccupied with sight seeing, shopping and eating.

As far as hotels in London go, we would rank this with the best of them due to location and   comfort level and is most certainly our regular and reliable place to stay when in the capital.  However, the hotel may be a  little expensive for those travelling on a budget or wanting an extended stay in London with rates starting from £220 per night including breakfast.

Hipping Hall, Kirkby Lonsdale, Lake District UK

Hipping Hall is a 17th century house close to Kikby Lonsdale.  It is tastefully renovated and decorated on the inside with quirky rooms and an intimate feel.

Having checked out the website and read numerous positive review on trip advisor, we felt the need to see for ourselves, so we set to the beautiful Lakes District.

It was like the stresses of the working week melted away as we pulled into the driveway and saw this lovely hotel and its small but lovely grounds.

Rates include dinner, bed and breakfast as well as tea/coffee and home made biscuits on arrival - what a lovely start to what would be a relaxing weekend.

There are 9 room options including 3 cottages. For our stay we chose room 3.  Whilst one of the smaller rooms in the hotel we were happy with our choice as it was cosy, had fabulous views over the garden and had a great bathroom. 

All rooms are decorated in muted tones with Vi-spring beds, meaning a comfy nights sleep.  

The hotel provides good quality toiletries, bath robes and bottled water in room as well as free newspaper of your choice.

Please note - there is no mini bar, tea/coffee making facilities or fridge in the room, but the idea of the hotel is as a retreat where all of your needs can be taken care of.  You wouldn't want to be going out to eat as the food here is fantastic !

Meals were served in the impressive dining hall with a large wood fire place.  There is a decent range of options available on the al a carte menu - we would have loved to try them all but decided on the scallop entree and the lamb loin main.

Breakfast is included - a decent sized menu is provided and you can order whatever you like and have it cooked fresh - a welcome change from standing in those canteen like queues waiting for some stale baked beans that have has some egg and half a sausage dropped in them.

The smoothies were amazing, the full English was delicious and the quality of the produce for all meals was beautiful.

The hotel is great for relaxation and romantic getaways. With attentive staff, intimate feeling, relaxed atmosphere and great food.  AND, it is so nice to see owners who have kept such a lovely property in original condition and with many original fixtures BUT have been brave enough to make the necessary changes to allow modern amenities and clean, fresh contemporary feel to the rooms.  

Too often hotels in older style buildings feels that EVERYTHING including the carpet, crockery and linens should be from the same age - might attract the retirees, but in this now heavily competitive market it will not attract the experienced traveller.

Although the grounds were a liitle smaller than expected, we were very impressed during our visit and would definitely return.  Hipping Hall deserves all accolades received on trip advisor.

Chaophraya Thai and Palm Sugar Lounge, Liverpool

This relatively new (opened in 2009) Thai restaurant is a welcome edition to the Liverpool food scene. The food is fresh and fabulous, reasonably priced and staff are pleasant and attentive without being intrusive.

Favourite dishes include: Pad Prik Sod (duck or chicken), Panang Curry, Gung Chup Pang Tod (tempura prawns) and the vegetarian spring rolls. We encourage you to work your way through the menu as its all good =)

The restaurant is tastefully decorated and has a great atmosphere. This, combined with the internal link in to the Palm Sugar Lounge makes it a great place for a night out.

There is also the option to secure a private dining room for groups - this has views into the Palm Sugar Lounge next door, where, if you wish to carry on the exclusivity, you can book private booths for your group.

Bring some extra cash if you will be making it a long night as Palm Sugar, as lovely as it is, does come with slightly hight drinks prices than other pubs and clubs in the area, however, the area and venue in my opinion warrants the extra charge.

What to wear:The restaurant is not pretentious at all and we have attended in shorts/t-shirt as well as dressed to the nines. However, most people to get glammed up and you will certainly want to dress to impress if planning to sweep into Palm Sugar afterwards

Prices: Entrees sit around the £7-9 mark, Main meals are £9-12 with individual rice portions at around £3

Other information: Bookings are essential to avoid disappointment, even on mid- week nights

Pablos, Lark Lane, Liverpool

As much as we like the fact that Lark Lane has its own eclectic/studnet vibe, Pablos is a welcome edition for those who want to enjoy a more modern restarant with a great bar.

The venue is trendy and comfortable and one very important feature (at least to woman) - Toilets are clean and faboulouslly decorated

The menus is reviewed often, there are set menus, mid-week specials, Sunday dinners, cheaper rate prior to seven and the food caters for all tastes. Wait staff are friendly and helpful making dinners a casual and enjoyable event.

Pablos bar has a wide variety of drinks and is one of few bars that stocks Bollinger Champagne - big ticks for that, as well as an extensive wine, beer and spirits menu.

If you wish to have a nice night away from the crowds of town then Pablos in Aigburth will not disappoint. A taxi to the restaurant from Liverpool CBD will set you back £8-£12 each way.

keep posted, as there will definitely be further reviews as we intend to return to this place again soon.

Restaurant Gordan Ramsey

Well, one of the most controversial chefs - do you love him/do you hate him...........I wasnt a fan and did go to the restauant purley due to wanting to try a Michelin starred restaurant in London and also to poke holes in the cocky chef.

However - It was worth every penny, the food was fantastic, staff were amazing and we would definitely go there again.

The only thing we did not love was trying to secure a reservation.........due to the demand for the restaurant and the need to keep the experience an intimate affair (meaning not too many tables) getting a table secured can require quite a few calls so please have a few dates and be flexible in order to secure a spot. You will also be required to secure the reservation with a credit card.

The restaurant has a variety of menus; a set lunch (3 courses £45pp), al a carte (3 courses £90pp), menu prestige (Degustation, £120pp), seasonal items and an extensive wine list.

The service was impecable, not pretencious at all. Although the staff were maybe a little too attentive (I dont need my drink topped up after each sip) they were pleasant, friendly and very knowledgeable. Nothing was too much trouble, we felt completely pampered and looked after and thouroughly enjoyed what can only be descrived as an experience. This is not just going out for dinner.

You phone up 28 days prior to your required date at 9am sharp if you want to secure a booking. This reserves you a tabel for the night - yes, the whole night. - a welcome change as many other restaurants seem to have the 'in at 6 out by 8 rule' that I hate so much. You are not given the 'you have it from 6-8' or ushered out with repeated coffee suggestions and the bill. Even when we had stopped ordering and had finished all food and drinks we were allowed to stay as long as we liked - no placing of the bill on the table or questioning if we were done. As soon as we motioned we were ready to leave the bill was prepared, our coats appeared and so did a taxi right at the front door.

Please be aware that a 12.5 % gratuity is added to each bill - however do not worry about this as after the service you receive ( the high level of waiter to patron ratio, the knowledgeable and friendly service) you wont be complaining too much.

Also note that there are dress requirements for the restaurant which is listed on the website. Our tip is to dress up but be comfy as you will want to eat til your heart is content and ladies - those suctions suits and tight dresses can be a little restrictive with such tempting treats on the menu.

At the end of the meal I was lucky enough to be serenaded by the Maitre d' Jean-Claude with his own version of happy birthday, complete with a lovely sorbet and birthday candle.

A visit is recommended, please see this as an experience and and all night event and do not book anything after dinner as you may want to take your time with the many tasty menu options or linger and relax after your meal.