An Edible Voyage

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.

June 2020 I have a soft spot for Stoke Newington in London; it's leafy streets, village feel and traquillity are a stark contrast to the bustling city.  I also have fond memories of my time in Australia, and a love of restaurants which have ever changing menus showcasing the best of local, bang in season produce.  And then I came across Wander.  Reading about the restaurant, the story of the chef/ owner Alexis, and how the restaurant came to be really resonated with me and I instantly added it to the top of my list of places to try.  Unfortunately, this was just a couple of weeks before lock down so as soon as I saw they were doing a Wander At Home takeaway banquet, I was bursting to take one to my mum's garden for a socially distanced dinner.  The weekly changing menu sounded both creative and delicious, and I loved the idea of being able to choose paired wine to enjoy with it.   Our banquet kicked off with sourdough and vegemite butter. ...

June 2020 I have lived in and around Oxford for several years, and, on many occasions, friends have mentioned the Aldens fish market to me but I seem to always forget when I'm in the area.  Having coincidentally walked passed it last week, I vowed to make a weekend trip.  There is certainly no shortage of fish, the majority of which is from the British south coast.  Alongside plaice, sole, tuna and oysters, were some sea trout steaks which I don't believe I've ever tried before.  I cooked this huge, meaty steak stuffed with coriander butter and finished with lemon juice and parsley.  Find Aldens on Osney Mead, oxford.  They also sell locally brewed beer, wine, vegetables, seaweed, smoked fish and store cupboard ingredients, as well as fish and chips cooked to order.