Running around again to begin the year 2014! Packed my bags and flew down to dear London. Why you ask, is London dear to me. No, not for the (few if not all) snooty British, but for my college mates who took the challenges to work in the UK. My trips there will not be complete without seeing them. And to that, I thank Ninang Jai, Gatz, Tita Shye and Daddy Vhit, for always being ready to meet me amidst their busy schedules and/or hungover state. Yeah, I meant you, Gatz...
So this time, Gosia, Ania and I, hit 2 birds with one stone. I was able
to encourage them to try Jamie Oliver's 15 restaurant. I heard a lot
about the good deeds that this ever popular chef has been doing. Helping
get kids off the street. Turning them into competent cooks and giving
them jobs to keep 'em off the street! Now that's one I would support.
So armed with that knowledge, the three girls went to meet their food
destiny. Hailed the famous London cab and road thru the light traffic to
get to 15 in less than 10 mins. Yes we could have just walked. But come
on! With my high heels on? No can do!!!
As I stepped out of the
cab, I breathed in the feel of this establishment, as I am not going to
pass up this chance, no, not a single second. Then, I was greeted by the
nostalgic hustle and bustle of restaurants dinner peak. Suddenly, I
missed my hey day working at Mondo, Fat Willys, HRC, etc.!
The dimmed lights gives off the mysterious feel and the brick walls,
loud music and undertone lights of the bar tells me I missed night life. It is reminiscent of Fat Willy's. But I wondered, where do they serve the food?
We were lead by a nicely dressed and cheerful host, down to a stair case
that opens up to a wider underground level, though not so different
ambient. The music is softer and the lights just a bit brighter. An open
kitchen lets you peek in to the magical world (well to me it is) of
food preparation.
Our server was cheerful (a bit too cheerful for my taste) and knowledgeable of the dishes and gave us a good deal. She made us order different dishes in small portions to share between the three of us.
And the winner of the night is..... (drum roll please...)
Pulled pork cannelloni!
I'd say I was just slightly disappointed as I expected way too much from
a Jamie Oliver resto. Of course, the food was good. But it just lacks
of something to be great. Or maybe, I just raised Jamie up the bar too
high. Now I understand what my colleagues were saying. He is overrated.
But I still stand by my decision to come and dine at 15. As I will always support good deeds for children and their future.
On a side note: I made my own version of this dish at home:
But I still stand by my decision to come and dine at 15. As I will always support good deeds for children and their future.
On a side note: I made my own version of this dish at home:
I dunno yet when I will go back, as Gosia (my London trip buddy) just gave birth to a bouncing baby boy named Antoni.
For now, see you soon, London!
