An Edible Voyage

It was quite some time since I was in India but I felt I wanted to share some particular highlights.  It's the ultimate food paradise - a continuous heady mix of food sizzling street-side, the juiciest mangoes and papayas, tiny super sweet bananas, and of course copious little glasses of creamy, spicy chai with a samosa straight from the fryer as our obligatory daily breakfast.  It never ceased to amaze me how the Chaiwala could pour from such a height in a perfect arc without splashing it all over the floor. I remember the evening I arrived in Mumbai, my first night in India, lured to Chowpatty beach by the promise of a feast of food stalls and home of the vada pav, a battered potato ball served in bun with chutney.  In the end though, we were taken by the the masala dosas - paper thin rice and lentil pancakes overflowing from the plate, served with spiced potatoes and chutneys.   A fantastic place for people watching, Chowpatty boasts the most beautiful sunset...

April 2021 I can't remember how on earth I originally came across this place, but I'm so glad that I did.  A real hidden gem, unassumingly tucked away in a residential street behind Stoke Newington High Street.  With it's conservative shop front it would be easy to miss, but whatever you do, don't miss it!  The compact inside has a buzzy neighbourhood vibe, and outside is a lovely, sheltered courtyard. Has Bean coffee is expertly crafted, whether as a pour over or espresso based beverage, and they've taken milk alternatives up a notch with their own home made almond milk. The food is always exceptional - one of those places where you know that whatever you choose will be well executed.  Unusual combinations of bang in season produce means the menu is never dull, whilst keeping things simple enough to really showcase the flavours of quality produce. The French toast is my go to option - thick slices of chewy, tangy Little Bread Pedlar sourdough, usually served with s...

My real reason for a trip to Porto was as the gateway for exploring the Duoro Valley - land of not only port, but some excellent wines.  Steep-sided vineyards rise up from the river banks, and standing atop one, vines stretch as far as the eye can see. For a taste of luxury, head to the stunning grounds of Quinta da Pacheca.  The old farmhouse is now a boutique hotel, and the restaurant offers culinary experiences paired with their own wines.  Alternatively, look in at the cellar door for an informal tasting and to learn a bit more about their offerings. For a more laid back vibe, visit Quinta do Tedo, an 18th century estate, where terraced vineyards sit high above the confluence of the Duoro and Tedo rivers.  Personalise your tasting experience and be sure to take a few bottles home with you - your own little piece of the Duoro.

If there's one thing it seems you have to do in Porto, it's sample port, and if you head across the iconic Luis I bridge to the southern banks of the Duoro river, this is definitely achievable.  Port houses line the river bank, with a line of flags down the street advertising the names of each, so you'll be thinking "Ah! I know that one!" or "Ooooh, I haven't heard of that one!".  Take your pick and nab yourself a table in one of the lively open air areas, sipping on a port cocktail, wine or just a good, simple port as you watch the comings and goings of Avenida de Diogo Leite with a backdrop of the sparkling river. Find the port houses on the southern banks of the Duoro river, just west of the Luis I bridge.