Food and drink | reviews and recipes

Looking for the best food and drink in the South East? Whether you want brunch, a unique dinner or a cocktail in a quirky bar, we have you covered.

Sausage recipes with Swaledale Butchers

Sausage Lovers Box by Swaledale Butchers

Nothing gets you creative in the kitchen like a box full of sausages. They’re so versatile and the perfect centrepiece to a meal.

I was lucky to sample The Sausage Lovers Box from Swaledale, packed with pork and lamb sausages.

What’s in the Sausage Lovers Box?

In the Swaledale Sausage Lovers Box, you’ll get a pack of:

  • Texan-style Hot Links Sausages (600g)
  • The Cumberland Sausage (500g)
  • 495g Yorkshire Breakfast Chipolatas (495g)
  • Calabrian Sausages (480g)
  • Coarse Pork Sausages (480g)
  • Lamb Merguez Sausages (480g)
  • Toulouse Sausages (480g)
  • Tuscan-style Pork, Fennel & Red Wine Sausages (480g)
  • Yorkshire Breakfast Sausages (480g)
Garlic creamy pasta with Tuscan-style Pork, Fennel & Red Wine Sausages and spinach

What did we make?

We’ve made plenty! A personal favourite is the Herb and garlic creamy pasta with Tuscan-style Pork, Fennel & Red Wine Sausages and spinach!

Herb and garlic creamy pasta with sausages and spinach

This dish was super simple to make. Start by cooking your Tuscan-style Pork, Fennel & Red Wine Sausages from Swaledale.

Use a dish, place your herb and garlic soft cheese in the centre, and surround it with spinach. Use freshly cut tomatoes or tomato sauce to coat and bake in the oven for 10 minutes. Cook your fresh pasta to finish at the same time.

Mix the fresh pasta with the baked soft cheese, spinach and tomato. Either place your sausages whole or cut them up and combine them.

Cumberland Sausage by Swaledale Butchers

Sausage recipes

Looking for some sausage recipe inspiration? Other sausage-based recipes could include:

  • Sausage risotto
  • Toad in the hole
  • Premium fry up
  • Bangers and mash
  • Sausage casserole
  • Sausage stew

If you’re looking for a wide variety of premium sausages to add sparkle to your recipes, look no further than The Sausage Lover’s Box from Swaledale.

Looking for more food and drink inspiration?

I received a complimentary The Sausage Lovers Box from Swaledale but all thoughts are personal. 

Bottomless brunch at Ballie Ballerson in Shoreditch, London

If you’re looking for a girly brunch in London with a difference, you’ll love bottomless brunch at Ballie Ballerson.

Ballie Ballerson is an adult ball pit venue in Shoreditch and it’s certainly a unique thing to do in London.

As part of its two-hour bottomless brunch experience, you’ll have full access to both ball pits, as well as 90 minutes of unlimited sourdough pizza, pornstar martinis and prosecco.

We decided to head to Ballie Ballerson as part of a girly weekend away. Little did I know, it would be a pre-hen celebration, making the occasion even more special!

Brunch options at Ballie Ballerson

There are two tickets to choose from, the VIP Brunch or Standing Baller Brunch. These are priced from £25 and £35 respectively. Do note, brunch tickets are more expensive for the afternoon session.

There are extras you can include. If you’re celebrating, you can also pre-order a pick ‘n’ mix sweet cake for your session.

The VIP Brunch at Ballie Ballerson

Annoyingly, you’ll need to pay a little extra if you want to be seated throughout the bottomless brunch.

The VIP Brunch seated tickets ensure your own private booth in the VIP area. In my opinion, the seated tickets offer a far nicer experience.

Standing Baller Brunch at Ballie Ballerson

However, if you do choose the standing option, you may be able to bag a high-top table. These are available on a first come first serve basis, so you’ll have to be quick!

On the plus side, it’s far easier to dance if you opt for the standing option.

What’s the music like?

For our Saturday session, we had resident DJ, Izzy Trixx. You can expect a mix of Disco, House, Commercial, Hip Hop, RnB, Garage, Rock and Drum and Bass.

Honestly, the music just made the occasion with non-stop nostalgic hits.

What’s the food and drinks like?

The food and drink at Ballie Ballerson is amazing. Within the 90 minutes, you can expect freshly made sourdough pizza alongside unlimited prosecco and pornstar martinies.

The delicious pizza is made to dietary preference, so everyone is catered for.

We all found the service quick and friendly. There was no chasing down staff to get more food or top ups and we all felt like we got good value for money.

What is this adult ball pit experience like?

Ballie Ballerson is a fabulous brunch venue. For the young-at-heart, it’s amazing to just go wild amongst the alleged one million balls. It’s kind of like reliving all of your childhood soft play memories.

There are two glowing ball pits to explore as part of the experience and they’re a lot of fun. You can enjoy the glowing semi-translucent white ball pit with its ceiling mirror. The second, a candy-coloured affair with a wall embellished with Love Hearts quotes.

Overall, brunch at Ballie Ballerson was such a wonderful experience, and I cannot wait to return with my girls.

Would you check out brunch at Ballie Ballerson?

Stephanie xox

Looking for more places to eat in London?

Reducing food waste with the Too Good To Go app

Too Good To Go app review

What is the Too Good To Go app?

Too Good To Go lets you purchase food in your local area that would otherwise go to waste.

How does it work?

Firstly, you’ll have to download the Too Good To Go app. Then, you can browse local shops and restaurants and see what surplus food is available in your area.

If available, you can select your Magic Bag for pre-order. Do be quick though as Magic Bags are limited. You will then have a set time to collect your bag that day or the following.

Most shops tend to refresh their offering each day so don’t worry if you initially miss out. You can also favourite shops to ensure you get availability updates.

Which shops are included?

There’s quite a lot of variety, depending on where you are. You can save food being wasted from:

  • Restaurants
  • Coffee shops
  • Food shops
  • Independent and local shops

What do you get in your Too Good To Go Magic Bag?

It’s a complete mystery! Depending on where you order from, you’ll get a selection of random goods.

These are often pre-chosen for you. However, you can try your luck and request things depending on dietary requirements.

Please note, these items often have a shorter shelf life. So, they may be due to expire that day or within a few days.

Here are some recent examples of our Magic Bags:

Order from Greggs

We paid £2.95 for our Greggs Magic Bag and got:

  • Two sausage rolls
  • Steak bake
  • Egg and mayo sandwich
  • Ham and cheese baguette
  • Milk chocolate cookie
  • Two novelty buns

This bag had a retail value of £10.

Order from Costa Coffee

We paid £3 for our Costa Coffee Magic Bag and got:

  • Tropical Muffin
  • Free Range Egg, Mushroom & Spinach Breakfast Bap
  • Vegan Smoky Ham & Cheeze Toastie
  • Vegan Bac’n Breakfast Bap

This bag had a retail value of £10.

Order from Crompton’s Bakery

We paid £3 for our Crompton’s Bakery Magic Bag and got:

  • Sausage roll
  • Double chocolate muffin
  • BLT baguette
  • Steak bake

This bag had a retail value of £9.

Is Too Good To Go worth it?

It’s so worth it. Not only are you saving money when you buy a Magic Bag, you’re also reducing food waste and helping the planet.

One thing to note, if you’re a vegetarian or vegan, you may get a selection of meat products. However, you can try your luck and ask for alternatives. We did this with our Costa Coffee Magic Bag above.

Unfortunately, you cannot choose dietary preferences beforehand on the app. Ultimately, the contents of your Magic Bag is random. Saying this, hopefully it’s something that is implemented in the future.

Overall, it’s a fantastic app and great for those who are conscious of waste and/or on a budget.

Have you tried the Too Good To Go app?

Stephanie xox

Looking for more food and drink reviews?

Is Bar Elba the best rooftop bar in London? ?

Is Bar Elba the best rooftop bar in London - interior 1

Looking for a quirky rooftop bar in London? Say hello to Bar Elba, your new favourite tropical destination in central London.

This bright and colourful bar in Waterloo is perfect for breezy summer cocktails or wintertime drinks.

Open year round, this gorgeous rooftop bar offers panoramic views. Once inside, you will find affordable cocktails, ciders, beers and quick bites aplenty.

Bar Elba offers a lovely and chilled vibe for everyone, be it an evening with friends, a date with your other half or someone new, or even for a boozy afternoon with your mum!

Is Bar Elba the best rooftop bar in London - interior 2

Decked out with vibrant benches and tables, you could lose hours in this tropical themed bar. Most importantly, if you head down for happy hour, you can even take advantage of 2 for 1 cocktails!

However, as the sun sets, the fun starts. Get in the mood as great music, friendly laughter and excited chatter buzz in the air. Bar Elba is as perfect for daytime meet ups as it is for evening drinks.

In addition to cocktails You can also get involved with Bar Elba events, including brunch dates, movie nights and afternoon picnics!

Love the look of Bar Elba? Why not check out their oh so pink sister bar, Tonight Josephine which is round the corner.

Stephanie xox

Follow me on Twitter Instagram Facebook for more updates from The LDN Gal

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Step back in time at Cahoots Underground cocktail bar in London

Step back in time at Cahoots Underground cocktail bar in London menu and cocktails

Discover Cahoots Underground: a post-war cocktail bar in Soho, London

Nestled in the heart of Soho, you will find Cahoots Underground. A cocktail bar which offers a unique, fresh and fun experience in Central London.

On arrival, ask for the ‘Captain’ and you will be led down a tiled wall staircase into a post-war underground station.

Once inside, you will be greeted by period costumed hosts. With their characters nailed and wide smiles in tow. They will lead you to your table within the disused underground station. You may even be lucky enough to be seated within one of the train carriages!

The themed menus are presented as styled newspapers. Take your time and discover lots of sumptuous cocktail specials with an English twist.

Nibble on popcorn from wartime tins and listen to swing, jazz and Lindy Hop aplenty as you await your drinks. Be sure to take the time to soak up the experience in this moody lit playground.

So, what did I think of Cahoots Underground?

This 1940s-themed bar is certainly enchanting, albeit slightly pricy. Saying this, it is worth the ‘step back in time’ experience and sticks to its theme with finesse.

Cahoots Underground makes an excellent date night with your significant other, family or closest friends.

On select nights, there is even live entertainment at Cahoots Underground. Expect piano singalongs, live music and post-war enthusiast DJs.

It can get busy, so if you plan to head there on the weekend, do book ahead.

You can also discover their sister bars in London, Cahoots Ticket Hall and Cahoots Control room.

Have you been to Cahoots Underground before? What’s your favourite cocktail bar in central London?

Stephanie xox

Looking for more things to do in London?

A girls day out in London Bridge

The best things to do in London Bridge

London Bridge is an area bursting with history and landmarks. It’s the perfect destination to see London’s famed skyline with friends in tow.

On the southern bank of the River Thames, London Bridge offers an eclectic mix of cultural hotspots, celebrated attractions, global cuisine to suit every budget, markets and independent treasures aplenty.

Here’s the best things to see and do in London Bridge:

The best food and drink at Borough Market 

Feeling peckish? For cheap independent eats head to Borough Market, London’s oldest and most famous market.

Weave in and out the numerous stalls and sample whatever takes your fancy. Discover international street food alongside fresh produce galore. Pick up fruit and vegetables, sweet treats and pastries, homemade bread and artisanal cheese.

Once you are done meandering this foodie heaven, enjoy a drink or two in the area and soak up the atmosphere.

Cocktails with a panoramic view at Aqua Shard, London

Take to the sky in The Shard, the UK’s tallest building at 310 metres. If you are looking for breathtaking views with a more affordable price tag, head up to Aqua Shard on the 32nd floor in 15 seconds.

Try to get a seat before sunset for incredible cityscape views with a cocktail in hand. The restaurant and bar is more than a third of the way up the skyscraper and doesn’t require a reservation.

If you’d like to pay a visit to the 72nd floor, you can see up to 40 miles from The View from The Shard.

Step back in time with The London Bridge Experience and Tombs

Looking for a unique history lesson and some scares? Head to The London Bridge Experience and Tombs. This interactive and immersive guided tour is for the brave among us. You will discover over 2,000 years of (often gruesome) London and London Bridge history on route.

Once you head into the London Tombs, expect to confuse the senses with a live-action maze. These historic tombs and vaults have been voted the scariest attraction in London.

Play explorer on The Golden Hinde

Step on board The Golden Hinde, a full scale replica of Sir Francis Drake’s 16th century global exploration vessel. This celebrated ship is brought to life alongside costumed actors detailing its history.

The Golden Hinde entry – £5

Feel on trend at the Fashion and Textile Museum

The Fashion and Textile Museum is one for creative types. Just up from London Bridge station on Bermondsey Street, step inside to discover their latest fashion and textile exhibition.

The Zandra Rhodes exhibition is currently on till January 2020, detailing the fashion designers extensive portfolio. Expect high fashion, textiles, theatrical costumes and original artwork. Explore 50 years of work at the museum she founded.

The colourful museum only hosts one exhibition space at a time. Once done, be sure to swing by the shop when exiting for beautiful and unique gifts.

Fashion and Textile Museum entry – £9.90

Enjoy the beauty of Southwark Cathedral

A stone’s throw away from London Bridge station you will find Southwark Cathedral. The oldest cathedral in London, this stunning place of worship is a must visit.

Enjoy a guided tour or service inside the Gothic cathedral and take a moment to soak up it’s beautiful architecture from its gardens outside.

See where the elite used to party at the Winchester Palace Ruins

Admire the 12th century ruins of Winchester Palace. These tucked away Medieval ruins once housed one of the most grand and opulent buildings in Britain.

It was a place of comfort and celebration for the religious officials, royalty and the elite of London for over 500 years.

Unwind at Potters Field Park

Take a moment to pause with a coffee or lunch at Potters Field Park. This open green space allows for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city with some wonderful views of Tower Bridge.

See how London moves at the Tower Bridge and Engine Room Tour

Often mistaken for London Bridge, Tower Bridge is one of London’s most iconic and photographed landmarks. However, most people do not know that you can in fact go up the bridge, built between 1886 and 1894.

You will start with a short history lesson before making your way along the first of two partially covered glass walkways. The second walkway has a partially mirrored ceiling offering the perfect snap of the River Thames and oncoming traffic below. It also allows you incredible views of the Shard and Gherkin.

Once down, it’s a short walk to the engine rooms which continue to lift the bridge to this day. Learn about how these engines work and their maintenance.

Tower Bridge and Engine Room Tour entry – £9.80

Enjoy British naval history on board HMS Belfast

To experience a monumental part of Britain’s naval past, step aboard HMS Belfast. The World War 1 ship is one of London’s most unique historical attractions. Moored near London Bridge Pier, this wartime ship is sensational.

Once aboard, make your way up and down ladders as you explore the interior and exterior of each deck, discovering the museum ship’s vast history. Expect waxwork figures ‘in action’, access to the gun turrets and hear many stories of life on board at each level.

On deck, you can take a moment to appreciate the London skyline from the River Thames.

HMS Belfast entry – £16.20 online and £18 on the day

See how medicine has progressed at The Old Operating Theatre

Make your way up a spiral 52-step staircase and enjoy a glimpse of how far modern medicine has come. The Old Operating Theatre brings you back to the 19th century where medicinal technique was still in its infancy.

The procedures were often gruesome and herbal remedies took precedence. The highlight of the museum? The opportunity to stand inside Europe’s oldest operating theatre.

The Old Operating Theatre entry – £6.50

Hunt for quirky fashion and other finds at Vinegar Yard

For vintage and retro finds, head to Vinegar Yard. This bustling flea market is brimming with antique treasures, arts and crafts and global cuisine to suit all tastes and preferences.

Be entertained at The Scoop 

Next to City Hall, the Scoop offers free theatrical performances, sporting and movie screenings at select times in the year.

800 people can enjoy events including Christmas by the River and Summer by the River within this impressive outdoor amphitheatre.

London Bridge will keep you busy for the entire weekend. To make the most of your time in the area, enjoy a London Bridge hotel stay.

Have you explored the London Bridge area? What would be your go to attraction? 

Stephanie xox

Please follow me on Twitter Instagram Facebook for more updates from The LDN Gal

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

The spending money was gifted by Hotels.com, but all views are my own

Looking for the best matcha cheesecake in London?

Matcha cheescake - Looking for the best matcha cheesecake in London - The LDN Gal

Looking for the best matcha cheesecake in London?

If you are looking for the best matcha cheesecake in London, you’re in luck.

In three locations across the capital, you will find the Japanese cafe, Tombo. Discover these matcha havens in South Kensington, Fitzrovia and Soho.

Once inside, sample matcha treats within a traditional Japanese styled interior.

An instant draw for matcha lovers is the cheesecake. Above all, the vegan matcha cheesecake and marble cheesecake. Thankfully, the vegan version is also gluten free!

The marble cheesecake is presented in the New York style with a twist. This rich cheesecake offers a sesame base and aromatic matcha marble top.

On the other hand, the vegan matcha cheesecake is a combination of coconut cream, tofu and oat milk. Surprisingly, it’s texture stays true and although a little denser, it isn’t any less delicious.

Tombo Soho London - Looking for the best matcha cheesecake in London - The LDN Gal

Tombo – the home of matcha desserts and drinks in London

As well as a killer matcha cheesecake, Tombo also offers other matcha inspired desserts and ice creams.

Sample a matcha tart or matcha soft serve ice cream, all in the heart of London. You can also enjoy your matcha hot or chilled, with delicious lattes to boot!

In contrast to sweet treats, Tombo also offers savoury items. These include Poke bowls, sushi, noodles and donburi.

In conclusion, if you are looking for the best matcha cheesecake in London, look no further than Tombo! I will certainly be back to enjoy their savoury dishes soon.

Have you ever been to Tombo? What is your go-to cheesecake flavour?

Stephanie xox

Please follow me on Twitter Instagram Facebook for more updates from The LDN Gal

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

Brunch at Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room, London ?

Brunch at Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room, London - table

Brunch at Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room

It’s always exciting when a new brunch hotspot in London appears. A fortnight ago, I headed out for brunch at Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room during its launch weekend.

The new rooftop restaurant and bar is located in the heart of the West End. Situated atop the Assembly Hotel, it offers panoramic views across London and a stunning interior.

The interior is wonderful, with floor-to-ceiling windows, delicate wicker weaved furnishings and citrus dotted flora aplenty.

Their brunch menu is wholesome and delicious, with a selection of vegetarian and vegan items to boot. Fear not meat eaters, there truly is something for everyone!

Brunch at Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room, London - panoramic viewBrunch at Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room, London - brunch menuBrunch at Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room, London - baked green eggs, all mixed up

So, what did I think of Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room?

Opting for savoury over sweet, I ordered the ‘Baked green eggs, all mixed up’. This dish was bursting with flavour, embellished with fresh pesto, crunchy vegetables and baked eggs in an earthy terracotta dish.

As expected, there are options for a bottomless brunch, as well as a selection sumptuous sides, cocktails and fresh juices to suit all.

Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room offers its visitors breakfast, dinner, cocktails and of course, weekend brunch, open daily from 7am.

Have you been to Bourne & Hollingsworth Garden Room yet? Which item would try from their brunch menu?

Stephanie xox

Please follow me on Twitter Instagram Facebook for more updates from The LDN Gal

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

A night of American-inspired food at Dirty Bones Oxford ?

Dirty Bones Oxford review - cocktails | The LDN Gal

Dirty Bones Oxford review

If you are looking for some American-inspired food with a New York City twist, Dirty Bones Oxford is the place to be.

Walk inside and you are welcomed to a sleek interior, with moody low-lit lighting, plush seating and quiet corners aplenty. The perfect venue for an intimate evening with your other half or friends.

Grab a drink from the gorgeous cocktail bar and sit down to a menu embellished with traditional and exotic pairings – with many a twist to be discovered.

The menu offers quite the variety, with a fantastic selection of vegetarian choices and a vegan option to boot. As a fussy eater (and a vegetarian), I am always delighted when I have a few options to choose from!

To start, we sampled the mac and cheese balls and gyoza dumplings filled with mince and cheese. Who doesn’t love a starter oozing with cheese?

Dirty Bones Oxford review - interior | The LDN GalDirty Bones Oxford review - cocktail bar | The LDN GalDirty Bones Oxford review - interior dining area | The LDN Gal

So, what did I think of my dinner at Dirty Bones Oxford?

For my main, the vegan mac daddy burger, lovingly loaded with espresso-spiked BBQ sauce and vegan mac and cheese. I removed the ‘smoky mushroom short rib’ due to personal preference. Regardless, this main was a dream, held together in a soft bun and messy as they come.

My other half opted for the 12 hour braised beef short rib. These were anything but ‘short’, the monumental short rib is garnished with espresso-spiked BBQ sauce, crispy shallots and spring onions. They must have been pretty moreish, as the plate was left bone dry.

Alongside our mains, we sampled the cheesy truffle and crispy lamb topped fries. The cheesy fries garnished with aged cheddar, Parmesan cheese sauce and white truffle oil. The lamb fries, loaded with succulent crispy lamb, sweet miso, red chilli and jalapeño.

Dirty Bones Oxford review - starters | The LDN GalDirty Bones Oxford review - mains | The LDN GalDirty Bones Oxford review - desserts | The LDN Gal

To finish, we indulged with the peanut butter cookie cup and the stickiest toffee pudding. I have to admit, the pudding did not quite reach the bar compared to the rest of the meal. Of course, it was delicious, but seemed to just miss the sparkle that the starters, mains and sides had offered.

Overall, would I return to Dirty Bones Oxford? You bet! However, next time, I might have to skip lunch and breakfast that day…

You can book a Dirty Bones Oxford reservation for your next brunch, lunch or dinner date.

Have you been to Dirty Bones before? What would be your go to main?

 Stephanie xox

Please follow me on Twitter Instagram Facebook for more updates from The LDN Gal

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

This dining experience was exchanged for an honest review 

Cocktails at Tonight Josephine in Waterloo, London ?

Light wall at Tonight Josephine - The LDN Gal

A Tonight Josephine experience review

If you haven’t been to Tonight Josephine yet, you are in for a treat. Based in Waterloo, this pretty-in-pink hot spot is probably one of the most Instagram-worthy bars in London.

Adorned with a neon light feature wall on entrance and an interior embellished with iridescent streamer lined walls, mirrored ceilings, a floral ‘lady garden’ and mug shot decorated bathroom. This overtly girly bar serves quirky cocktails in an oh so cool environment.

Every corner of the bar proves to be a photo opportunity and most will probably spend just as much time sipping cocktails as they will taking the perfect picture – it is simply a millennial girls dream come true. 

Tonight Josephine is certainly a lot of fun with its bright, bold and brilliant interior. The bar itself is quite small but this offers a degree of intimacy and exclusivity to boot I guess.

Cocktails at Tonight Josephine - The LDN Gal Bathrooms at Tonight Josephine - The LDN Gal

So, what did I think of Tonight Josephine?

Obviously, the décor and atmosphere is fabulous – it is marketed to be just so. Though despite the glamour, its nineties and noughties soundtrack and scented interior (yes, I said scented), you cannot help but feel a little cheated when it comes to drinks – no matter how good they taste.

Unfortunately, my cocktail proved to be more ice than alcohol, free-poured swiftly before being garnished and passed across the bar. It certainly didn’t last long.

Despite this, a few hours at Tonight Josephine makes for a lovely evening and is certainly a fabulous place to stop by for drinks and snaps with the girls – just be sure to take advantage of the 2-4-1 happy hour! 

You can get a free cocktail when you sign up to the Tonight Josephine mailing list.

Have you been to Tonight Josephine yet? Which cocktail would be your go to?

Stephanie xox

Please follow me on Twitter Instagram Facebook for more updates from The LDN Gal

Follow my blog with Bloglovin