So yesterday evening I went to neighbourhood for the first time, having been invited to the Christmas menu launch. I didn't really know what to expect because I've purposefully stayed away from this place as it gives off a certain vibe that doesn't appeal to me. I remember sitting outside Artisan which is right in front of Neighbourhood last summer, I was out for a few drinks with a friend and we were sat outside chatting and drinking for a couple of hours. During this time we saw people entering and leaving neighbourhood, a lot of wannabe WAG types and the general consensus seemed to be less is more in the way of clothing. Throw in the pervs in suits and the Mr Muscle 'look at me' types and you've got yourself a party. I got a Panacea vibe from it *shudders* That might appeal to some, but not me.
BUT having said that, I was pleasantly surprised yesterday which just goes to show that events like this give those that wouldn't normally give your business a look in an opportunity to give it a try. We were greeted with smiles and the staff were welcoming, we got a Christmas cocktail upon arrival. Not exactly sure what was in it but I think it might have been vodka and some sort of mulled cheery liquor. It was yummy but it would have been nice to know what it was, it wasn't on the menu yet.
They've lost a star because of two reasons. 1 - because some of the staff were too busy giving their friends preferential treatment so overlooked other guests 2 - we weren't offered any canapés despite being passed by about 5 times, eventually we just asked and were given a whole platter between 2, situation wholly redeemed :)
We got to try the neighbourhood smoked salmon which was fresh and full of flavour. The celeriac soup with chestnut cream and truffle oil was sooooo yummy, the crunchy texture of the crisp chestnut garnish complimented the savoury, creamy flavour/texture well and you could really taste the truffle oil. The tempura prawns were huge, juicy with a thin, crispy coating. They came with two dips, one was rather like mayo and the other more spicy. Needless to say I preferred spicy. The pulled chicken croquettes were over seasoned and too salty, my least favourite. The prawns were my favourite.
NOW - let me talk about the mulled wine! I had two glasses of the good stuff, given how hot it was outside yesterday it felt a bit weird but it was sublime. Smelt and tasted delicious, if nothing else I'll be back for this alone.
The dessert options were Christmas pudding which was A-OK and the chocolate pot (mousse) with passion fruit, which was pretty thick and rich. Both tasty and well executed.
You can book your Christmas dinner here for £32.50, 3 courses with a glass of mulled wine or Prosecco added in for an extra fiver. The lunch option is £24.50 plus fiver for drink. I say it's worth it given the quality. They offer 4 options for the main, we didn't get to try these but they are the usual turkey et al, sirloin of beef, woodland mushroom risotto and hake. A nice variety.
They offer 2 for 1 on all drinks from 5-7pm on weekdays which is pretty good, we bought two glasses of Prosecco for £8.50.
The crowd was mixed for this event but I wasn't wrong about the 'types' that frequent this establishment.. however, having been here once, I would give it another go.
Overall it was a fun event with good food and drinks. The live band playing Christmas classics was a nice touch, as were the garlands etc.
10.2.17 I ate here again a couple of weeks ago and the food was DIVINE! I would never go on a Friday or Saturday but mid week is perfect :) read more