Tag Archives: burger

Boom Burger, Portobello

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The burger craze seems to be unstoppable and now West London is muscling in on the action. With the Caribbean population hosting the Notting Hill  carnival every August, it seems fitting to find Boom Burger in Portobello. The place instantly exudes the laid back Caribbean vibe, with reggae music blasting from the speakers and a Jamaican reminiscent red, green and yellow sign. Inside, the place is little more than a takeaway cafe although the food very much proves its value to London’s most famous market street.

As I learnt on my trip to St Lucia and Grenada, rum punch is more popular than water as a refreshing thirst quencher. We were treated to Boom Burger’s version as an aperitif as soon as we sat down. Alongside the punch a deep maroon Sorrel (a Caribbean fruit) drink was less recognisable, I winced at the first sip but soon began to enjoy the acquired sour taste.

Greasy and delightful starters arrived in coloured plastic baskets… Jerk chicken wings coated in a thick aromatic spicy and salty marinade and soft and fragrant fish cakes. Both were delicious, though we particularly enjoyed the tender flavoursome wings – they would make the perfect snack to munch on while wandering round the stalls of the market.

As recommended we tried a Boom burger and a Jerk boom, a chicken variety with an exceptionally sweet mango and pawpaw sauce. Both were delicious and the meat was of noticeably fine quality. The beef was coarsely ground and assembled into a messy patty with sloppy melted cheese and bacon. The chicken was great too – a successful alternative to the classic beef burger, the contrast of the salty chicken and peppery rocket, fruity fried plantain and extra sweet sauce was a marvel.

It can be stressful trying to find a filling and flavoursome snack in a busy marketplace… Portobello sellers and buyers will be grateful for this top notch Caribbean burger shack.

More information here: boomburger.co.uk

An Evening East: Burgers and Booze

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Once a place of dangerous streets and damaged shop fronts, Hackney is now full of hot haunts. Conveniently, multiple bus routes run through the borough and overground and underground stations are dotted around. Last Friday evening I jumped off the tube at Bethnal Green ready to explore this exciting neighbourhood.

Satan’s Whiskers: Dark and sultry this little vintage bar is not hidden or secret but still manages to create a sense of allure and intrigue inside. With humorous taxidermy decorating the den and flickering candles on the tables, the prohibition vibe is very present. Started up by three master mixologists, SW doesn’t aim to produce the most adventurous or unique cocktails, instead preferring to mix practically perfect versions of classics and favourites. Clover Club was a pastel pink with a thick foamy top, wonderfully balanced with a zesty kick.

The Advisory: Named in TimeOut as one of London’s top burger outlets, I had high hopes for this venue. Interestingly named after the Asian Women’s Advisory Centre that was previously on the site, this restaurant prides itself on offering inexpensive burgers and beer of high quality. Witty remarks cover the walls, we sat below the direct order “Ketchup must be applied to the fries”. Our order took a while to arrive, but the results were pleasing… sweet soft brioche buns holding a cheese coated patty, crisp lettuce, tomato and crispy bacon. The meat was a little overcooked for my liking but the flavour was still good. Perhaps they could be a bit more experimental with their recipes and flavours.

Sager & Wilde: This is my new favourite wine bar, and the kind of place you wish was your local. I can imagine whiling away Friday evenings here, sipping exceptional (and reasonably priced) wine and enjoying the atmosphere of the dimly lit bar. Alongside the innovative wine list, there is a list of tempting cheesy treats and meaty snacks. It is a winning combination.

Here’s to Hackney, home of many weird and wonderful venues. I hope to return to try some more soon.

Perfect Paris

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On my recent trip to Paris, for a change, I flew in to France’s capital rather than taking the Eurostar. After so many visits I find it amazing that there are still so many things I want to explore and experience in Paris. A brilliant burger bar, a new design hotel and a personalised perfume service were all part of my itinerary but I also discovered a few wonders whilst wandering…

TO SLEEP

Le Citizen Hotel – a tiny boutique design hotel located by the canal. Young, hip and affordable.

Hotel de Nell – a quietly elegant and very luxurious 5 star design hotel in the 9th arrondissement.

TO EAT

Beef Club – visiting late on a Friday night, this popular local hangout was full to the brim and we were sad to learn of the lack of burgers. Nonetheless we enjoyed a delicious steak before sloping downstairs for a well mixed cocktail in the Ballroom Bar, another of the illustrious ECC venues.

Patisserie Christian Colonniat – here you will find perfect pain au chocolats with flaky buttery pastry that melts in your mouth. Best of all… It is hidden away from the hordes of tourists.

Big Fernand – Perhaps the best burger in Paris, this shabby restaurant is identified from the long queues down the street. We tried Le Bartholome, an irresistible combination of raclette cheese, crispy bacon, caramelised onions and chives accompanying a genius juicy beef patty. I’ve heard Big Fernand are soon to be opening in London, I cannot wait.

Ferdi – a very traditional and cosy restaurant serving classic French dishes and a particularly good and simple cheeseburger using the finest thick ground meat. Served with wonderfully thin fries.

Le Bal Cafe – particularly popular for weekend brunch, this cafe and art gallery attracts a cool crowd of creative creatures.

TO DRINK

Ten Belles – just a few feet from Le Citizen Hotel, this charming little coffee shop squeezes customers in for delicious coffee and homemade cakes.

Lockwood – good in the day for a strong coffee or at night for an even stronger cocktail. Lockwood is a new ‘vintage’ venue that already has a great vibe.

Candelaria – My favourite new cocktail bar and dance establishment. Escape through the tacos kitchen to find a happy dancing den where trendy girls and boys drink clever concoctions. I loved the Dino sour with pear liqueur, lemon, egg white and floral-infused honey.

TO SHOP

Nose – this perfume emporium offers a full analysis and personalised service to find you the perfect scent. I bought Le Fin du Monde by Etat Libre D’Orange.

Coincidence – a little concept store with lots of character. Here you will find Scandi inspired clothing and quirky accessories.

A.P.C. – the typically French brand, APC offers chic but relaxed garments for modern thinkers. Classic colours, modern design.

TO SEE

Rodin Museum – indoor and outdoor gallery filled with Rodin’s robust and sensual sculptures. Sadly the famous and romantic Kiss was on loan when we visited, though the other works are just as magnificent.

Cartier at Le Grand Palais – showcasing the finest jewels from Cartier, this is a glittering exhibition including jewellery worn by stars such as Grace Kelly.

TO DO

Wikipearls at Wikibar – the experimental and innovative frozen balls of flavour are interesting but certainly not enjoyable. We tried Lobster and Coconut Milk, Beetroot and Foie Gras, Coriander and Pumpkin, and Roquefort and Walnut. Weird but not wonderful.

Le Comptoir Generale – this ghetto museum-cafe-bar is hidden away behind the main canal street. Filled with memorabilia and strange artefacts, it is a fascinating place to explore.

Thanks to the Paris Tourist Board, more information here.

parisinfo.com