An Edible Voyage

October 2021 Wherever I am, I'm all for living off whatever is locally produced or foraged, and if there's a sign for something homemade, I'm sold.  That's why I was a little apprehensive when my friend told me she had booked a tapas restaurant for our first night in the Scilly Isles.  As it turned out, it was a wonderful thing - the fresh from the sea fish I craved with a Spanish twist, and the added bonus of Mediterranean inspired mosaic tables along the beachfront.  What could be better than devouring a large slab of freshly caught flaky hake cooked with white wine, saffron, olives and almonds, whilst the sun warmed my face and boats bobbed on the sparkling turquoise sea mere metres from me? Other fish offerings include chermoula mackerel, and fried cod balls, and there are plenty of tapas classics, as well as twists on classics, to satisfy both carnivores and alternative diets.  Anchovy stuffed tortilla was another highlight for me.  Initially unsure whether...

August 2021 Northern Cyprus lured me with it's sunshine and Mediterranean vibes, but ruggedness and lack of tourists compared to the south of the island. During my stay at Gillham Village in Ilgaz, I went for an explore.  Flanked by awe inspiring mountains, this sleepy village does well at keeping it's awesome views a secret.  Marrows grow from the smallest of cracks along the street, dogs laze in the sunshine, and men lounge in plastic chairs watching TV on the terrace of the Post Office.  For the best view in the village, take a seat on the top floor of the open sided Ilgaz cafe and sip Turkish coffee whilst looking out over the jaw-droppingly enormous mountains and down the valley to the sea. Find Ilgaz cafe in the middle of the village - you can't miss it!  They also did what seemed to be a popular and hearty breakfast. 

July 2021 Lost and Found Cafe is verging on perfection.  A short stroll along the beautiful north coast of Northern Ireland, a few minutes away from the hubbub of Portstewart Strand, nestles this friendly brew bar and eatery.   Enjoy expertly crafted espresso based coffee and innovative brunch at the stools in front of the enormous window overlooking the sea.  Salty feta, nutty tahini and the sweetness of honey, an inspired and utterly delicious toastie that I will definitely be recreating at home.    Don't leave without choosing one of their exciting homemade sweet treats (and maybe one to take home too!).  Bigger than your head cookie sandwiches are enough for several sittings, and cakes change with the seasons. Find Lost and Found Cafe on Berne Road, just east of Portstewart Strand.