Bread is the stuff of life, or so they say. Others might disagree, preferring internet karma, getting passionate about politics, or simply chocolate as their life fuel. However, come the zombie apocalypse (or Brexit, whichever arrives sooner), we may all have to bake our own bread over flint-sparked flames,... Read more
Cat’s got an elderly relative who’s convinced that B-Day (Brexit Day, EUletide, or whatever you want to call it) will bring not only that mythical £350m for the NHS but also a welcome return to pounds and ounces. In some deep recesses of the Island we have been known... Read more
If you’re on the Isle of Wight, and seeking somewhere to eat, there’s a high likelihood that you are going to look favourably on somewhere with a sea view. We have remarked before on the curious fact that there are actually surprisingly few such venues. If you doubt us,... Read more
For one night only Stripped, Ventnor’s achingly hip burger and pizza joint, was turning Japanese – we really think so. Over forty guests joined us for a superb evening of authentic Japanese-style Omakase dining from talented Steffen Erbe, chef at both Ventnor’s Cantina and its sister venue Stripped. Fifteen... Read more
After the excesses of Christmas, many of you will have emerged blinking into the New Year full of staunch resolutions to stop drinking alcohol, deny yourselves meat, run every day and generally have a miserable and sanctimonious January. We know that our willpower isn’t as reliable as yours so... Read more
We had a couple of lunch dates in Southsea this weekend but, what with Storm Hannah brewing up, we realised that we might either not get across the Solent or, if we did, we might get marooned over there. What to do? Make a weekend of it and stay... Read more
Let’s say you’re stuck with a traditional newsagent’s shop in Gurnard. It’s been trading for years but frankly, the writing is on the wall. Nobody buys fags any more, printed media is not really a growing market, and as for sweets and toiletries, darling, we all get them from... Read more
ARCHIVE ARTICLE: This article is old, and Ashley Randle is no longer the chef at The Hamborough. There’s a new hand at the helm at Ventnor’s Hambrough. Experienced chef Ashley Randle has worked alongside some prestigious culinary names, and now plans to bring a local food twist to his... Read more
Archive review: The Hungry Bear at St Helens has moved and is no longer open at this location. Where do you need to go to find an rhea’s egg on the Isle of Wight? A long time ago it was Fakenham Farm, in St Helen’s. The rheas are no... Read more
We’ve already enjoyed the fruits of the mixologist’s skill at The OTTO Club, Ryde’s newest (and only?) members club. Last week we popped in for the Burns Night supper crafted by head chef; Jack Blumenthal, who demonstrated his special culinary expertise. Having experienced a hardcore Burns Night supper elsewhere,... Read more
