Quiet evening in … and a chance to publish another post in my Good Stuff series – essentially just quick lists of things I’ve come across lately and have really enjoyed but for whatever reason they didn’t make it into their own blog posts on here, my tikichris-to-go Tumblr blog or one of my client blogs.
A Nation of Shopkeepers: I had a tough time finding decent places to eat while up in Leeds. You can do well for a satisfying and cheap lunch – and it must be noted the city has some fantastic bars and pubs – but having a proper supper has proven difficult time and time again for me when I’m up there. Thankfully, I was introduced to A Nation of Shopkeepers during my last visit. Good food (kinda pub grub meets American comfort), great beer, affordable prices and a cool vibe. Apparently, it’s a highly regarded venue for live music as well.
Ferran Adrià: I attended an In Conversation event on “the art of cooking” at Whitechapel Gallery featuring photographer Hannah Collins and Ferran Adrià of ElBulli restaurant fame. The convo marked the launch of Collins’ publication The Fragile Feast: Routes to Routes to Ferran Adrià. Honestly, from what I could tell, the book and Collins’ photos really don’t do it for me. However, getting to listen to Adrià expound on all sorts of foodie related topics was brilliant. The dude seems to have a healthy perspective about his career, cooking and life in general. I’d love to try some of his food some time (there may still be a chance in the near future despite elBulli being closed).
The Artist: Saw it, loved it and wouldn’t be against watching it again. Really enjoyable and refreshing. Jean Dujardin + Bérénice Bejo, on screen magic.
Leong’s Legend: The Chinese New Year celebrations in Chinatown were a blast! The parade was vibrant and most impressive was the cacophonous entry of the dragon into Leong’s Legend (one of my favourite restos in Chinatown) to receive its offering while I was having a dumpling-licious lunch. Fun.
Forbidden Planet: Oh man … had a total geek out last weekend at this “cult entertainment megastore” and ended up leaving with considerably less quid in my pocket than when I’d entered. Brought home the Dungeons & Dragons complete series four disc box set. Remember that show? I loved it as a kid. And believe it or not it holds up pretty well all these years later and is still pretty entertaining (and better than most crap on TV nowadays anyway). Also grabbed a DVD of My Neighbor Totoro while there. It’s been too long since I last watched – and my girlfriend’s never seen it – egads! Must remedy this ASAP.
And oh yeah, it’s a snowy night here in my corner of London. Cosy and perfect for listening to Tommy Flanagan.
