Taste Of London Winter.

Curiosity got the better of me and so I decided to make the journey to ‘Taste of London Winter’. I have attended its summer big sister, ‘Taste of London’ for many years and wanted to find out how it faired.

Tobacco Dock is an attractive, characterful indoor / outdoor labyrinth of a venue with a cosy feel, a vaulted basement and chambers leading off from both sides. I was spoiled for choice where to start exploring so I followed my nose and headed to Benares where I sampled the Bhatti Murgh: Chicken Tikka Salad which was deliciously warming.Following the savoury theme I ventured to The Truscott Arms who pride themselves on “using the best locally sourced ingredients and seasonal produce.” I was particularly interested in paying them a visit as the word on the vine was that they cater admirably for those with a gluten intolerance or have coeliac disease, something which is close to my heart as my little boy has this autoimmune disease. The Ham Hock and Guinea Fowl Terrine with Red Onion Chutney won my vote and we were spoiled with a really tasty, hearty portion. The flavours were fantastic.

Up next was Gaucho, I wanted to see if their “food philosophy and raw passion for cooking using the finest quality ingredients available” epitomising Gaucho. It is true and was evident in the welcoming staff as they prepared my Grilled Boneless Honey Glazed Short Ribs, which was a melt in the mouth explosion of flavours.

It was great to see independent companies there again, such as Heck who do “Damn Good Sausages!” – a firm family favourite of ours due to their gluten-free product ranges. The Garlic Farm also grabbed my attention as the staff enthused us with sweet and savoury recipe ideas. My mind was already going into auto drive as to how I could push the boundaries with this.

Taste of London Winter tantalised my taste buds leaving me wanting more. The venue suited the climate for this time of year and this winter foodie wonderland is perfect if you want to try a variety of cuisines and beverages from the four corners of the world, made by some of the best, all under one roof (and some great up and coming chefs too). What is there not to like?

There is something for everyone, from luxurious chocolate stocking fillers to indulgent cocktail pastilles by Smith & Sinclair. I love their tag line, “We all grow old, we don’t have to grow up…” How true that is.

There was live music on the menu too and a cool cosmopolitan atmosphere to go with it. The vibrant giant oversized floor cushions were plentiful, rarely unoccupied and perfect for watching the world go by. From cocktails and spirits to cinnamon infused mulled wine or Champagne, we were certainly spoiled for choice in the run up to the Christmas festivities. Cheers!

But the highlight of the day for me was The Meringue Girls who lit up the room with a showcase of stunning mini meringue masterpieces. They truly were works of art and the explosion of colour that exuded from them was captivating. It has given me real inspiration to experiment, push new boundaries and make food fun.

And so as I headed back to the train station sated. Taste of London Winter is an ideal opportunity to indulge with good friends and family. Make sure you bring an appetite as you will be spoiled for choice in this melting pot of deliciousness.