Making it Worthwhile

At this time of year, it's pretty difficult to find much local produce in terms of fruit and veg. Although the snowdrops are out and the daffs on their way, it'll still be a while before the rhubarb is ready and we can look forward to our summer crops. Frustrating though it is, this is when our preparations for the store cupboard come in handy.

I reached for the (now vintage) homemade sloe gin and almost killed my entire staff at Meldon when we had a wee tasting. Wow it was good - but very strong! But it's that sort of thing that keeps us going - as an ingredient in a pudding, I mean, not by drugging my employees! That, and positive encouragement from customers.

Tom and I ate at Comfort in Newcastle last night as it was our wedding anniversary. Coals to Newcastle, I know, but we thought we'd road test our new chef, John.

Now I always get really nervous when I eat in my restaurants because I'm incredibly nervous about overhearing comments from other diners. Suffice to say there was a table of four next to us who, I am relieved to report, thoroughly enjoyed their food and it transpired that the wife of one of the men at the table had her own business in Cambridge, supporting local food and produce.

It was so good to get feedback about a shared passion and to feel supported, even at a time of year when you aren't able to deal all your aces! I guess that my point is that we just have to keep supporting local, extensively produced food and the benefits will be reaped in the end.

And John did a great job - my Lindisfarne Mussels were stunning and prove that their flavour is as good as any mussel anywhere, and the venison that Tom had was delicious. I still feel rather full this morning...oh well, off to make bread for today and by the time that's baked I'll be hungry again. It's a tough life...

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