I shed a little tear

Review: Restaurant

I went to: Ginger Bistro, Hope Street Belfast

On the: 3rd of November

For: My birthday, sorry I mean dinner

I gorged on: Rare sirloin salad with wasabi and Loin of lamb served with chorizo, vegetables and potato gratin. Both sprinkled with magic, yes actual magic.

And it was: Maybe, just maybe the most beautiful food I have eaten in years. The sirloin was sliced waferish thin and as rare as it gets. I shed one little tear after the first bite. Not because it was just so beautiful, and it was, but because I added too much wasabi and ginger to the meat. LMM had squid to start which of course I helped her finish. I am a gentleman you know. And again it was perfect, almost melted in your mouth. With a first course like that we knew the main courses would be just fantastic. I braced myself, I didn't want to set myself up for a disappointment. My lamb was perfect, just cooked a moment over that "jelly" stage. The flavour of the meat was exceptional with out being too meaty, if you know what I mean. The chorizo, peas, and carrots and jus were filling but felt light. Makes no sense eh. But in a world were Matt Damon is famous and rich anything is possible. LMM's pork was moist and tasty, but fuck me she ate it all, saving only one, small, piece for me. What's that all about? But from what I was told it was, "It'sgreatImeangreatwhycan'tyoucooklikethat?" Indeed.

The service was: The service was for the most part really good, not Manuel, but really good. The waiter that took out order was genuine, warm, and most importantly, full of good advice. He disappeared as the place filled up. Which was fine. The atmosphere was relaxed and convivial. Other waiters were shaking hands and hugging regular or recognised customers. Simon, the head chef and owner, toured the tables greeting and seating people and adding to welcoming atmosphere. My head chef very occasionally tours the table as well, but with a cleaver in his hand.

It cost me: Nothing it was my birthday, but it cost LMM about £80. It was worth every penny.

I'll be going back: Just as soon as I get myself set up as a drug dealer and can afford to go everyday. Ginger isn't just for the special occasions, sell the kids and go everyday.

And so it gets: 6 out of 5. When a restaurant gels in every aspect, the way Ginger does, that truly is going above and beyond.

Other words: It was that good. I know it was my birthday and I was in a good mood but Ginger is that good. The staff are warm and sincere from the moment you arrive. The food is exceptional. The restaurant itself is light and airy and the decor is just fine and lends itself to a relaxing night. The menu leans towards fish primarily but as we had been to the Mourne Seafood Bar the previous day we opted for the meat choices. Simon was vegetarian chef of the year a few years ago so you are always guaranteed more than a stuffed pepper. Due to other commitments we didn't stay for sweets but the list looked beautiful and I'm sure that they were. Why wouldn't they, everything else was. If you go, and you should, be warned all other food will look like beans on toast after this.

This is my new favourite place, not just my favourite restaurant, but my new most favourite place......

make like a nike advert and just do it....

Don't forget Stripped Waiter......waiter strips