(but only if we tell you that it contains 48 kcal, 12.5g carbs, 0% fat, 0% iron......)

As we know from various books and films; nannies, especially magical ones, can manage to tame and enlighten even the most stubborn. Sadly, I have to join a growing chorus of people bemoaning our government’s (present and past) attempt to emulate the nannies of fiction. My latest gripe is regarding the Food Agency and the Department of Health who have jointly written to food industry leaders (who are they?) and other interested parties (even less idea who they are) setting out plans to assist in delivering the Healthy Food Code of Good Practice. For us restaurateurs this means specifically “nutritional information on food eaten out of the home”.

I am proud to have flown the flag of healthy and balanced diets long before it became a “social” issue. The intentions of these government departments are laudable as they usually are, but their sense of reality leaves a lot to be desired. Why?...

Food Archaeology: Chocolate

The Conquistador’s dubious legacy is thought of as gold and the eradication of the Inca and Aztec civilisation. Had they approached these expeditions.... Read more »

Recipe: Pots Au Chocolat

A welcome change from the plain version and wonderful base for many a pleasure, you will need Dark chocolate, caster sugar, semi skimmed milk, eggs.... Read more »

Kitchen equipment demystified

The peeler, Measuring jug, The tin opener, Scales and Colander and sieves. The growing interest in cooking at home has led to far more products being made.... READ MORE »

Ma Belle France
Savoie and the Nothern Alps 2500

Covered in pines is the origin of the Savoie name, this idyllic starting point belies a tempestuous history. The simple reason for this is access; it is the easiest place to cross into and out of what is now France. And though elephants are possible they are still discouraged. At one point the house of Savoie was the oldest ruling family in Europe and oddly stretched its tentacles as far as Sicily and Sardinia. I apologise at this point for using the French Savoie, to me Savoy is a cabbage. Needless to say that an area with such natural beauty and money will always yield a stunning selection of places to see.  Read more »

Annecy
Annecy is that rare combination of historic and natural beauty. Man has lived here, at the tip of the lake, since pre-history. The weather will determine the setting; it forces the lake to take on many guises. A sunny day brings out a blue that would not be out of place in the Caribbean. Bad weather and mists roll delightfully down the mountains, giving the lake a simmering pot like illusion. Either way a walk in the Parc Impérial, by the lake, will lift the spirits.  Read more »

Croix De Fer
Do not be put off by the fearsome name, the Iron Cross is one of the most wonderful car journeys you can imagine. Its title comes simply from the Iron Cross that is found at the summit of the pass of the same name. A summit that is regularly used by cyclists on the tour de France, a point I make only to question the sanity of some people. A quick look at a map will tell you to check your brakes and advise anyone suffering from vertigo to stay in bed.  Read more »

Evian les Bains
I am sure that the name is not unknown to you, Evian the bottled water, it is now world famous. And though the town has a much longer history, the town as a spa resort is only some 200 years old. In its time it has welcomed a long list of the high and mighty; from Proust to Edward V. It was at the end of the 1800’s that the health properties of the water were discovered. The town then expanded with hotels and of course the casino (making sure that you might actually leave the town lighter) The word spa has become a gentle word, one of relaxation and gentle enjoyment, not so long ago the French saw it differently.  Read more »