Takeaway's to save drunken Londoners

A drink after work turns into a few and then a few more "because its Christmas". For many, the Christmas season is all about indulgence in food and drink but for some, it turns into a serious issue. The festive period sees such a significant rise in drunken kitchen incidents that the London Fire Brigade have launched an ad campaign that specifically targets those who might consider cooking while under the influence. The campaign, which is occupying pages in newspapers as well as billboards around the capital, features a photograph of a burger with the caption "Last night a burger saved my life". Their research shows that a quarter of accidental house fires in the capital are caused by 18 to 35 year olds when attempting to cook at home when drunk. Its hoped that, by encouraging merry makers to opt for a takeaway rather than conjuring up a drunken snack, it will cut the number of fires in the capital. 

It goes without saying that I am in agreement with any campaign that is primarily aimed at saving lives. However, the link with takeaways bothers the health-obsessed part of my brain. Why a takeaway? Why not a sandwich or a bowl of cereal? The Christmas season is generally pretty decadent for the majority of people but surely our society doesn't need any encouragement to turn to their local takeaways?

Still, I would urge you to deny your chip pan cravings after a few too many glasses of vino. Just think of the resulting mess if nothing else!

Snapshot: Miso

Returning from London after a fun weekend, we decided to grab a snack from Yo! Sushi (The Boy's current obsession) while passing through London Paddington. Among other delights, we picked up a miso soup. Got to love the packaging!

Review: The Mission, Oxford

I'm no expert but I've liked most things labelled "Mexican" that have been wafted under my eager nose. I'm not sure if it's the spices or the richness but it's always a winner with me. Since I was small, my Mum has made the best guacamole ever (much better than the pre-made stuff, I shall have to dig out the recipe!). Now I'm at uni, one of my 'signature dishes' is nachos which are easy, tasty and a great sharing food (another recipe post sometime!). So when my housemate suggested we try out The Mission in central Oxford, I thought it was worth the bus ride in.

I've passed by their warm doorway several times since they opened but there's always been a sizeable queue, often out the door. Obviously, this is a great sign but not conducive to me stopping in. We arrived at about 7.30pm and although there was something of a queue, we joined the throng. A chicken burrito with lots in it costs less than £5, which can't be argued with considering how full it leaves you. Definite value for money! Plus, it's delicious and tastes nice and fresh. They do several different wrap options with different fillings, which are mainly meat based but they do a vegetarian option too. Seating can be a bit of a problem as it's only a small establishment and you just have to sit where you can but this adds to the casual social feel.

All in all, a great place to eat. Worth popping in even if it's busy, especially if you're in need of a quick takeaway fix. Good value, lots of options to keep everyone happy and very tasty.

Walking home that evening, it was suggested that burrito soup could be a tasty addition to my recipe book so that's something that I might need to experiment with in the future!

Borough Market

I've headed off to the Big Smoke for a month long course about architecture. I'm looking to expand my horizons and challenge myself while discovering the confidence I once had. London is a fantastically busy place and I tend to relish it for that fact; I can be anonymous and carried along with the crowd.
I have been prompted, however, to pause in some places and take in the sites, sounds and smells. Borough Market in SE1 is one of those places. A vibrant, bustling energy fills it up to the rafters from Thursday to Saturday each week while some traders hold permenant positions among the fray during the week too. It's only a two minute walk from our studios so it's perfect for a break. I'll keep you posted during my journey of discovery and, in the meantime, why not do some exploring yourselves?

Magic Roll!

Bristol is home to the fantastic Magic Roll Takeaways. I discovered them whilst trying to find something a little different for my lunch while working near the Clifton Triangle. They're open all round the clock but the really amazing stuff is rolled out at lunch time when they will fill a wrap with whatever fillings and sauces your heart desires. They win with me because they put jalapeno chilli's in their sandwiches; they're really on to a winner. Think of it like a better, fresher and more local Subway. As well as lunch, they cater for breakfast too so pop in and try their porridge on your way to your morning meeting (though don't forget to grab a serviette too!). Lunchtimes get pretty busy so make sure you set aside some time for your order - trust me, it's worth it. You can also phone ahead if you're in a rush. Give them a try!