The Square, Mayfair

Last Friday really knocked me for six.

The CG got some very unexpected news, and we had to make a really tough decision to cancel a significant trip this year as a result. Luckily, the CG was still his usual resolutely upbeat self in the face of adversity, so I told him how proud I was of him, and headed to dinner at The Square with the usual suspects. (Don't judge me. It was booked a long time in advance.)

We opted for the tasting menu. 9 courses and 8 wines later, I was certainly glad we had.

Expectations are always going to be high when you have not one, but three amuse bouche. 

The langoustine and parmesan gnocchi was probably my favourite course.

The foie gras was a little too sweet for me with the honeycomb crumble and pasty accompaniments. Who knew I was such a foie gras traditionalist?

I'm so lucky I have an understanding husband.

Quality time in Amsterdam

After the birthday surprise crew left Amsterdam, the CG and I got down to the serious business of soaking up more sunshine and dedicating serious time to eating. We worked out that we hadn't spent a day together, alone, without commitments, since December on our honeymoon. Sad, huh?

We scooted past the minimum two hour wait at the Rijksmuseum - patience isn't my forte - and headed to the Conservatorium Hotel for lunch to give our already burnt necks a break from the sun. It's beautiful atrium and super fresh food was the perfect place for lunch.

Best way to spend an afternoon together? Napping in the park. Pure bliss.

After we shook off our sleepy heads, we popped into the Heineken experience for a lesson on how to drink beer, and why foam heads are important.

Before dinner at Zeppo's, proving you really can integrate croquettes into almost any meal.

And somehow, amongst all of that, we also managed a hot chocolate or two.

It was exactly the mini break I needed with my best friend.

Surprise in Amsterdam

Last weekend the CG and I headed over to Amsterdam to surprise C for his birthday - a brilliant plan cooked up by his lovely missus. 

Let's just say the surprise wasn't without drama (read: C throwing a tantrum not realising his hardworking girlfriend wasn't forcing him to go have drinks with randoms), but once we got over the initial hiccup, our touristy weekend in Amsterdam was a blast.

Yes folks, that was the look of dawning realisation.

We had glorious sunshine.

Marathon runners in training.

Many, many laughs.

Lots and lots of food.

Very little class.

Lots of relaxing.

And a brilliant canal cruise. Complete with jaeger and clog dancing action.

Notable quotes:

"I smuggled bacon, and I'm not proud of it."

"I asked to see her ID. Surely it's the bouncers responsibility to check ages?"

Er, yeah. That's the kind of company we keep.