So, it’s a New Year . . . let’s see who is ‘At Our Table’ for 2020 . . .
It’s lovely Julie of Mon Amie . . . As the photo shows, Julie is one of two, the other being the equally lovely Lou, the pair reside at The Barn in High Street, Kibworth, just up the road from the Lighthouse.
They have helped me revamp our florals at both restaurants using their amazing, look like real Faux Flowers that look amazingly lifelike and add colour and warmth to the restaurants.
Julie’s enigmatic charm, zest for life and certain style is irresistible and pours out of all that she takes on. The fresh as well as the faux flowers, the wreath making and various artistic classes that they host at The Barn, as well as the gorgeous gifts and bits and pieces they sell are such a valuable addition to Kibworth High Street. It’s kind of like an oasis of loveliness in the chaos . . . it leaves you warm and fuzzy inside.
When did you first dine at Boboli or The Lighthouse?
Gosh, I can't even remember it was that long ago - literally years ago! We definitely dined at The Lighthouse shortly after it opened under that branding - how long ago was that?
What prompted you to visit us/how did you hear of us?
It was probably a dinner date with girlfriends... truthfully again I really can't remember - showing my age now!
What’s your favourite dish at Boboli?
It used to be Lasagne - and I know that's a favourite for so many people at Boboli - but I've recently given up eating meat altogether, so I usually go for a fish dish now. The fish of the day is always delicious!
At The Lighthouse?
Ok, so the Fish and Chips is just brilliant - always a winner. And I love all the starter nibble dishes - especially salmon pâté and whitebait. But my all-time favourite thing in The Lighthouse is actually the side dish of baked fennel. It's honestly delicious and I have it without fail every time I eat at The Lighthouse. Try as I might though, I haven't yet managed to recreate it quite as well at home - but that's the joy of eating out and always an excuse to go back to The Lighthouse.
What is it you love about our restaurants?
The ease of dining. You can be with friends or family - in for a fancy dinner date or a casual Friday night supper. I love that you can grab a simple coffee at Boboli at 10am. We've often met with prospective brides for a coffee to talk wedding flowers. The service is always excellent - speedy when it needs to be, discreet and efficient. I love that I always feel welcome.
Do you enjoy cooking at home?
Yes - I love cooking at home - cooking at weekends is my favourite when I have more time to consider what I'm doing.
What’s your own speciality?
I can actually make a mean lasagne - even though I don't eat it myself these days! And I have a fab fish curry recipe that always goes down well. I also love making summer salads for BBQs with friends. In the summer I was making a a lentil and goats cheese salad with marinated onions as well as a nectarine and tomato salad with feta and mint.
What are your views on food trends?
I absolutely love a fad and a trend - especially when it's food-related! Indeed, I'm known for adopting whatever is happening now. So, I've been vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, no dairy, no sugar, intermittent fasting (I'm doing that now!), raw food, Kombucha - you name it, I've probably tried it! And I'm a bit of a geek so I always become an expert in whatever I'm doing... advocating it to anybody that will listen! I think it's great that we can all try new things for the good of our health to see what suits us - I generally start full-on with a food trend and then see what sticks long-term.
Do you have any of your own special dietary needs?
No special dietary needs - just the 'fad du jour' - currently pescatarian, intermittent fasting, no sugar, no milk (dairy kind - just all the non-dairy alternatives you can think of!)
Do you believe it’s still possible to enjoy eating out even if you have special dietary requirements?
Of course - you just have to find restaurants that cater for your needs. Most good restaurants now will have vegetarian and often vegan options which is great. Luckily being fad-based, I'm not too rigid and my principles can easily slip if there's a desert that takes my fancy!
What style of food/country of origin is your favourite?
Probably Italian - I love Mediterranean food of all kinds - with loads of olive oil and herbs. I also love Thai and Eastern dishes and will always choose a Thai Curry if there's one on the menu.
Do you enjoy wine?
I have to say, I'm not much of a wine drinker. But my husband is a massive fan of Bordeaux reds - so I often have a glass of that if there's one open - and if I'm not on child taxi-service duties!
Which is your favourite?
My all-time favourite red wine is Pomerol. I tried it first with my French sister-in-law when I was in my 20s and I couldn't believe red wine could taste that good - it followed several years as a student when my budget would only stretch to whatever was £2.99 in Threshers!
Is Gin a tipple you enjoy?
Yes! I love a gin and tonic - especially in the summer
If so, do you have a favourite flavour or brand?
I don't really have a favourite. I love trying new gins and also tonic flavours. I did a Gin Making experience day in London last year which was brilliant, and I have to say the gin I created (whilst rather tipsy and not paying much attention!) was actually rather good!
If tempted, which is your cocktail of choice?
Porn Star Martini - I love passion fruit! Or a good old-fashioned Pina Colada!
What would you particularly recommend about Boboli and The Lighthouse when mentioning the restaurants to your friends?
All of the great reasons that I love the restaurants that I've mentioned above. I'd say you can always get great food when you need it - with excellent service and ambience.
Thank you to Julie for taking the time to answer our questions.
As I mentioned they are a duo, so Lou, you may think you have slipped the net this time, but how could I possibly “Do” one of you and not the other! Watch this space!
A Bientot!
Sarah x
