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Restaurant review: Sue Ellen

24 06 2018

Restaurant Sue Ellen was opened in November 2017 and it replaced Bystro, which was also owned by the same chef’s familiar from Demo and Muru. Bystro served Russian food, but Sue Ellen has quite different cuisine. It comes from Southern coast of America like Savannah, South Carolina and Charleston. Sue Ellen is good example of new “pop-up” trend in restaurant scene. Instead of fine tuning decoration and menu, close old concept and open new one.

Sue Ellen is located in former colonial merchant’s house by the sea, opposite to Old Market Hall. Hotel Haven is behind or around the restaurant and many guests of course use the opportunity to dine without need to walk far.

The name of the restaurant presumably raises eye brows of those who remember old TV series called Dallas. If you go to wash your hands, you can even see pictures of main characters.

There is one special dish restaurant offers. You can order whole Piglet 3-4 days beforehand. Of course there are shellfishes, oysters and some other meat dishes available, but piglet is quite extraordinary.

Decided to order 4 course menu, which cost 55€, as waitress told that it was also available as vegan. Also ordered wines suggested for the dishes.

Vegan starter was GREEN TOMATOES Fresh salad and Louisiana remoulade and standard CAROLINA CRABCAKE & OKRA SALAD Romesco paste, lemon curd.

Tomatoes were the best part of vegan dinner. Because of those, expectations were quite high for next dishes.

Crabcake was tasty, one could really find the taste of juicy crabs. Paste made the dish even more delicious.

Wine served for both starters was Pinot Noir from Robert Mondavi. Fruity and almost full-bodied wine paired perfectly with starters.

Second dish on the menu was SPICY MANGO Baby gem, fried shallot, pimento.

Vegan dish did not include biscuits on the top of the food. Mango was not so sweet because it travels quite long time from country of origin before fruits end up to Finland. As being used for enjoying often spicy food, dish was slight disappointment.

Wine served was German Riesling from Böcking. Dry, crispy and fresh wine comes from Mosel area and for mango, it matched perfectly.

Next and last salty dishes were Asparagus based vegan dish and SLIGHTLY SMOKED BRISKET Brisket ”Au Jus”, roasted cauliflower purée and broccoli

Second vegan main course was combination of different vegetables and roots. The idea came from dish called FROM THE SEA, which includes asparagus and sweet potato chips. However, typically restaurants provide tofu or some other protein product like Härkis or Nyhtökaura replacing meat of fish. In this case restaurant did not have those.

Brisket was excellent, tender (au jus means juicy) and fumigating was made with skill. Was just hoping for the third slice as was still hungry. Tiny side dish was also perfect match when it comes to taste: but again, double the amount and this dish would have been bull’s eye.

Both wines come from Charles Smith Wines. Boom Boom Syrah for meat and Eve Chardonnay for vegan dish. Waitress actually chose white wine as it paired better with asparagus and other veggies.

Dessert / Sweet of the Day on the menu was Chocolate cake, which was delicious with all add-on’s. Sorbet was included in both dishes and as it is prepared at restaurant, it was also very tasty.

Desset wine from Bigaro, Piemonte, Italy is produced with two different grapes, one white (Muscat) and a black (Brachetto). Amount of alcohol is only 5%, which makes this perfect summer wine.

Sue Ellen wanted to provide vegan dishes for 4 course menu, but that seemed to be quite difficult. Standard menu was delicious and worth to order, although portions are not that big. As many restaurants provide also vegan version of their menu, grade is compared to those.

Service was casual but professional, the contents of dishes were explained well and the pace of serving food was well planned. Waitress also changed the champagne aperitif as she saw that there were not enough bubbles.

Same owners have also new interesting experimental restaurant Ultima in the same building. Part of the ingredients are grown in the restaurant and 90% come anyway from Finland.

REVIEW: FOOD Vegan 2,5/5 Standard 4-/5 – SERVICE 4,5/5 – OVERALL GRADE 4-/5

https://sue-ellen.fi/en/

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Tags: Hotel Haven, Sue Ellen
Categories : Bar, Finland, Helsinki, Hotel, Restaurant, Restaurant review, Travel, Wine

Restaurant review: Loiste at 10th floor

21 01 2017

Restaurant Loiste is located in the heart of Helsinki at the 10th Floor of Hotel Vaakuna and Sokos department store. There is a nice view from terraces and part of the restaurant windows. If you are seated on the right side of the restaurant, when you come in, you can not enjoy of the view, unfortunately. Therefore ask for window table and you can take a look at Kamppi and Forum shopping centres. Loiste is casual type of restaurant, but tries to put effort on the menu and food.

If you just want to enjoy aperitif or you are not hungry enough, you can visit the bar, which is located at the same premises, at 10th floor.

This time no starters as had decided to eat dessert too. However, as portions were not that big, could have eaten Blini, the season dish, for starter.

For main courses ordered Fish of the day and Chickpea steak, baked shiitake and kale, bell pepper tzatziki, which was the vegan dish.

Fish of the day was Arctic char, which is cold-water fish in the family of salmonidaes. Quite common in Finland. Side dishes were beetroot, potatoes and mushroom sauce. Simple, tasty but fish pieces could have been bigger.

For vegan porton, not your typical Chickpea steak. A combination of chickpeas, shredded carrots, and zucchini put together in tasty steak shape. Served with a delicious red pepper tzatziki sauce and a side dish of seasoned wild mushrooms. Overall a delicious dish worth a second try.

For desserts ordered English cranberry-chocolate pudding and Basil-Coconat sorbet.

Pudding was more like a cake, but delicious. Again few bites bigger and experience would have been perfect.

The vegan dessert was a creamy, structure like ice-cream. Basil and coconat are not a common combination, but it totally works!

This time had for red wine Trapiche Astica Merlot-Malbec from Argentina. This basic wine had intense red color with ruby hues. Fruits and vanilla aromas, great complexity of the red and black fruits in the palate with sweet tannins. Malbec softened Merlot taste nicely.

Bigger portions for the price paid is a wish, when it comes to non vegan dishes.

Service was polite but we were wondering why we did not get window table although requested. Few tables were empty all the time by the window. Otherwise restaurant was quite busy.

REVIEW: FOOD 3,5/5 – VEGAN FOOD 4/5 – SERVICE 4-/5 – OVERALL GRADE 4-/5

https://www.raflaamo.fi/en/helsinki/restaurant-loiste

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Tags: Loiste, Restaurant Loiste, Vaakuna, vegan
Categories : Bar, Food, Food and Wine, Helsinki, Hotel, Restaurant, Restaurant review, Travel, Wine

Restaurant review: Brasserie Kämp

3 07 2016

Brasserie Kämp

Hotel Kämp is a historical hotel in Helsinki. The hotel was originally built in 1887 by Carl Kämp. The building was demolished and the facade was rebuilt in 1965.

Dining at Hotel Kämp gives a possibility on a culinary journey from East to West. Asian food is offered at restaurant YUME. Brasserie Kämp offers a wide range of European brasserie style food.

A la carte list is short which makes ordering easy, if you find suitable dish. One option is to order gourmet “fast food” like Kämp burger or club sandwich which are luxorious. Especially french fries are maybe the best in the city.

Wanted to challenge kitchen and decided to order for starters Salad a la Kämp Mixed salad, cucumber, plum tomatoes with marinated artichokes and button mushrooms

Crispy, fresh vegetables made for a very delicious salad. The parmesan dressing was substituded by a vinagrette, and marinated artichoke with button mushrooms were the choice to make the perfect all vegan option. The other options are shrimps or chicken.

and Arctic Ocean Shrimps Hand peeled shrimps, fennel and apple salad, cold cucumber juice.

Shrimps were fresh and just hand peeled, of course. Cucumber juice was delicous and made the dish sort of soup like of starter.

Shrimps at Kämp

For main courses ordered Roasted salmon Creamed seasonal mushrooms seasoned with chervil and tarragon, potato puree.

Salmon was roasted well, meaning that it was not over cooked which can happen easily. Mixture of mushrooms and potato puree paired extremely well with the fish.

Salmon at Kämp

and from All day Dining list Black rice and cauliflower Black rice from Piemonte, roasted cauliflower, hazelnut vinaigrette.

From the “All Day Dinning” part of the menu, this is the perfect vegan option. The original dish is served with goat cheese. The dish is creamy, but the hazelnut vinagrette and roasted cauliflower keep it fresh and crispy.

Recommend to dine at the terrace of Kämp Brasserie, which is perfect location to observe passers-by on Esplanadi promenade or pedestrian street. Most of the dishes can be ordered as starters or main courses which helps in keeping the menu short.

Service was unique with French touch. There is a difference between Kämp Brasserie and recently opened trendy bistro type of restaurants when it comes to service. But it is refreshing that there still are some traditions honored.

REVIEW: FOOD 4+/5 – SERVICE 4,5/5 – OVERALL GRADE 4+/5

http://brasseriekamp.fi/en/

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Tags: brasserie Kämp, Esplanadi, Hotel Kämp, Kämp, Yume
Categories : Bar, Food, Food and Wine, Helsinki, Hotel, Restaurant, Travel, Wine

Restaurant review: Yume – New Year’s Eve dinner

9 01 2016

Restaurant Yume is part of Kämp Group, which also operates legendary luxury hotel Kämp. Yume serves asian flavours and dishes in a modern decor and is located in the same building as hotel Kämp. Inspired by the Jack Yoss Experience pop up restaurant which was at Yume in July 2012, restaurant’s menu changed and offers today a wide variety of modern asian food.

Note that restaurant is closed in January 2016 due to renovation.

New Year’s Eve did not differ so much from regular evening except when it comes to menu, that was planned for special day. Food is always well prepared and delicious at Yume, but special menu was not that special because menus have always been enjoyable. Maybe surprise small bite between dishes would have been spectacular.

Started with aperitives, but got first two dishes 2 minutes after drinks. Those two dishes, Spiced salmon in soy sauce and Sushi pieces were first part of the dinner being both starters. But it was quite odd that restaurant served these portions while taking first sips. OK, waitress noticed that eating did not start before had enjoyed the drinks and after that it was more comfortable to eat next dishes without rush.

3rd dish was the best of all portions. Pork ribs were so delicious that could have eaten them for rest of the menu. Extremely well spiced these juicy ribs were so far the best have ever tasted.

And 4th dish was Beef meat served with rice. A little bit too greasy, but with chili slices and “soup” again show case of Yume kitchen professionalism.

Yume can Asian-Scandinavian type desserts! Not too complicated for local taste. Means that sometimes different type of vegetables and herbs used in desserts make them almost snack or main course, not dessert. Dessert was Pudding with sorbet.

Interesting detail is the location of extra cutlery. They are hidden in a small box under the table, but only on one side.

For wine chose The Velvet Devil from Charles Smith Wines, USA. 100% Merlot pairs well with spicy, almost even hot dishes.

Yume is one of the best “gourmet” asian cusine restaurants in Helsinki. As it is in the center of the city, next door to Hotel Kämp, it’s location is also perfect. Modern rhythm music is not too loud and most of the tables are not thick on the ground, which makes discussion possible. Service was professional as expected and would have given 4,5, if starters would have not appear so quickly.

REVIEW: FOOD 4,5/5 – SERVICE 4+/5 – OVERALL GRADE 4,5/5

http://ravintolayume.fi/en/

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Tags: asian food, asian restaurant, Charles Smith Wines, Hotel Kämp, Kämp, Restaurant Yume, Tasting menu, The Velvet Devil, Yume
Categories : Food, Food and Wine, Helsinki, Hotel, Restaurant, Restaurant review, Travel, Wine

Restaurant review: Brasserie Kämp – Kämp burger

26 04 2015

Hotel Kämp is a historical hotel in Helsinki. The hotel was originally built in 1887 by Carl Kämp. The building was demolished and the facade was rebuilt in 1965. The headquarters of the bank KOP were situated in the building for almost three decades, until 1995. A major restoration project, started in 1996, culminated in the reopening of Hotel Kämp in 1999.

Restaurant Brasserie Kämp offers a wide range of European food brasserie style. After building heated terrace four years ago you can dine “outside” all year around like in many brasseries in Paris. That is the place for enjoying Kämp burger.

Kämp burger consists of Black Angus beef patty, chipotle and bacon dressing, pickled red onion, cheddar, little gem lettuce between roll and pommes frites.

You can can choose the degree of maturity of the meat. Medium means that you get patty which is red inside. And patty is thick, thicker than you usually have seen and juicy. It is one reason for the price, 24€, but of course the milieu adds some value add. Fries are crispy as they should be and served with elegance.

With red wine, usually pinot noir, Kämp burger is perfect hunger killer for lunch!

Brasserie Kämp is perfect location to observe passers-by on Esplanadi promenade and eat that famous Kämp burger. You can also watch swanky cars parked front of Hotel Kämp or driving to the hotel garage.

REVIEW: FOOD 4,5/5 – SERVICE 4,5/5 – OVERALL GRADE 4,5/5

Ravintola Brasserie Kämp.

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Tags: brasserie Kämp, burger, Espa, Esplanadi, Finland, Hotel Kämp, Kämp burger, pinot noir
Categories : Food, Food and Wine, Helsinki, Hotel, Restaurant, Restaurant review, Travel, Wine

Hotel review: Barcelona Princess

6 02 2015

The hotel Barcelona Princess boasts 363 fully-equipped rooms, a sun terrace with pool on the 23rd floor with a nice view of the city and small pool with gym on the 3rd floor.

Located on the ’Avenida Diagonal’ just in front of the shopping center Fórum, this 4-star hotel is located less than 20 minutes from the centre of Barcelona with decent public transport alternatives available.

Interesting detail is Desigual Loft on the 23rd floor with decor, which takes care of every detail, patchwork rugs, lamps, wicker armchairs and low tables puff type created by artisans of different peoples of the Mediterranean.

ROOM

Spent few nights in the double room on the 19th floor with sea view. Room was well equipped, bath robe and slippers waiting to be used. Free mini bar with soft drinks and bottle of beer per day and free WI-FI.

Bath room was behind the glass wall, but it can be hided with automated screen, if you are shy. However, toilet and shower are behind doors, some relief?

PUBLIC SPACES

Breakfast was generous compared to many other hotels in Barcelona. Something for everyone. Tried also room service once. Service was quick and actually room service price list is affordable.

On the first floor there is small bar and lobby but hotel is not actually place for dinners. Prepare to reserve table from “real” restaurants in the city or by the sea.

Two pools and new and well designed rooms are best part of the hotel.

Location from Plaza Catalunya is quite far, but walking by the sea to Port Olympico does not take too much time. Then it is up to you, if you want to continue to Maremagnum and then to Ramblas by foot. I actually walked that route, but with one pit stop in Tapa Tapa tapas bar or restaurant.

Hotel Barcelona Princess is for business travellers and for those, who do not want to pay higher prices in the city for lower standard.

REVIEW: ROOM 4/5 – PUBLIC SPACES 4/5 – OVERALL GRADE 4-/5

Hotel Barcelona Princess – Official Website | Barcelona Hotel.

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Tags: Barcelona, Barcelona Princess, hotel Barcelona Princess, Spain
Categories : Bar, Food and Wine, Hotel, Hotel review, Restaurant, Travel

Restaurant review: Ovo – Gourmet restaurant at hotel Lopesan Villa del Conde

16 01 2015

Restaurant Ovo

The distinguished Club Restaurant Ovo is situated in the central building of hotel Lopesan Villa del Conde next to the central square. In its envolving interior of simple elegance, the Ovo permits to taste pleasantly a virtuos creative cuisine.

Visited Ovo twice, New Year’s Eve Gala dinner and few days later. Review is combination of these two visits, which differed quite a lot from each other.

NEW YEAR’S EVE (SYLVESTER) DINNER

New Year’s Celebration is spectacular not only because of better climate compared to Finland but also way of celebrating and enjoying party. Dinner was also perfect as well as service. What was extremely unique, hotel gave a food allergy card in check-in, which was useful whole stay. And it proved to be working already during New Years’ Eve dinner although menu was fixed.

Dinner started with Appetizer consisting of three delicacies. Names of goodies can be seen on Menu above.

Then came the soup where you could see how well restaurant took into account the food allergy card. Tomato soup instead of cream.

Lobster with side dishes was great! Cooking was perfect because lobster meat was soft, not chewy.

Meat, beef tenderloin, was prepared with talent and it was one of the best red meats eaten ever.

For dessert combination of sweet goodies but not too sweet. Perfect ending for the dinner. Ups, forgot glass of Lanson, which actuallu ended the dinner.

RE-VISIT and STANDARD A LA CARTE LIST

Second visit was few days after New Year’s Eve. Expectations were high as we were amazed by the service and food served last time. We did not need food allergy card because main waiter remembered changes what needed to be made, excellent!

Dinner started with greetings from the kitchen, soup and vitello tonnato Ovo way. Best part of the dinner, unfortunately.

Starters, giant shrimps and Ceasar salad, were ok but not that impressive as we expected. Ceasar salad missed taste of anchovy and garlic.

Main course, sea bass, was prepared too early. It was not anymore enough warm and crisp.

But service, it was again professional and polite.

Restaurant Ovo can be gourmet restaurant if it wants. Service is outstanding and it really takes into account customer. But gourmet restaurant needs to serve stable quality when it comes to food. This was not the fact at second visit. However, Ovo maybe is the best restaurant in Costa Meloneras.

REVIEW: FOOD 4/5 – SERVICE 5-/5 -OVERALL GRADE 4+/5

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Tags: Costa Meloneras, food allergy, Lopesan Villa del Conde, Ovo, restaurant Ovo, Spain
Categories : Champagne, Food, Food and Wine, Hotel, Restaurant, Restaurant review, Travel, Wine

Restaurant review: Havis – Christmas Eve buffet 2014 + MERRY CHRISTMAS!

25 12 2014

Helsinki closes on Christmas Eve afternoon. Only few restaurants are open and most of them are hotel restaurants like Havis, which serves hotel Haven guests.

Winter came suddenly although one week ago all weather forecasts knew that there would be “black” Christmas. Snow makes Christmas atmosphere more real (if you happen to like snow)

Havis Christmas Eve buffet menu includes traditional Finnish Christmas dishes, even Christmas ham is available. Turkey has taken some place from ham, but not much. Herrings, roes and salted salmon or salted whitefish are must on Finnish Christmas table.

Buffet was not as generous as at restaurant Pirate (see previous post). However, each dish was prepared carefully and they were tasty.

Even Christmas ham tasted better than usually. Ham was partly smoked which made the taste delicious. Roe and salted salmon with side dishes were as they should be.

Food is prepared at open kitchen which is located in dining room Kitchen (of course).

Main courses were served to the tables. You could choose from Smoked salmon or Braised lamb shoulder. We ordered salmon which was one of the best salmon dishes ever eaten. Cooking time for fish was perfect and side dishes, carrot puree, small roasted potatoes and Hollandaise sauce paired brilliantly with fish.

And dessert Bundt cake with ice-cream was scrumptious. Cake was spiced with Christmas and it matched brilliantly with apple ice-cream.

Restaurant Havis is one of our favourite restaurants. We usually prefer to dine at dining room Havis, because it mirrors best the origins of Havis as you can see in the picture on the wall.

Restaurant was almost full all the time and most diners were hotel guests.

And of course we always ask for window table, which allows us to observe bustle at Market Square and near Old Market Hall. But on Christmas Eve no one rushes anymore anywhere. It is time for relaxing and enjoying good food and company.

You should visit hotel Haven bar at the 2nd floor. It is worth of seeing not only because of wide selection of drinks. It is decorated as member of Small Luxury hotels of the World should be.

Food was excellent due to main course and dessert. Because Havis is open also on Christmas time it earns high grade.

We had Veuve Clicquot and Vodka Martinis for aperitif. Best way to start Christmas dinner as you had already had some mulled wine earlier.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

REVIEW: FOOD 4,5/5 – SERVICE 4+/5 – OVERALL GRADE 5-/5

CHRISTMAS EVE MENU | Menu.

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Tags: Christmas, Christmas Eve, Finland, Finnish Christmas, Havis, Hotel Haven, Restaurant Havis
Categories : Food, Food and Wine, Helsinki, Hotel, Restaurant, Restaurant review, Travel, Wine

Restaurant review: Yume – second visit 2014

7 11 2014

Bramble

Restaurant Yume is part of Kämp Group, which also operates luxury hotel Kämp. Yume serves Asian flavours in a modern decor, and is located in the same building as hotel Kämp. Inspired by the Jack Yoss Experience pop up restaurant which was at Yume in July 2012, restaurant’s menu changed and offers today a wide variety of modern Asian food.

Our first visit was in February when we enjoyed tasting menu. This time decided to try dishes on the a la carte list. Unfortunately whitefish was not there anymore; it was the best dish last time from the menu.

Restaurant Yume

Before ordering food had to relax with aperitives. Chose Bramble Gin, bramble (blackberry) and lemon and Yume Roayl. With the amount of ice, Bramble drink almost dissappeared, but it was excellent apritif to start with. Royal included some herb, can not remember anymore which one. You could not notice bouquet of herb but the taste yes.

For starters we ordered Thai pork ribs Pork ribs, herb salad and thai-chili sauce and Whitefish Kinilaw Whitefish, lime and chili.

Portion of ribs was huge and propably idea was to share it. But after tasting, I think no-one wants to share it. One of the best pork ribs dishes ever eaten. Last time one tiny setback was that food was not so spicy as we would like it to be, especially Asian. Now everything was in harmony including herbs, chili and sweetnes; perfect combination. And no grease at all around bones.

Whitefish was marinated with lime and it was partially raw matured. You must like lots of citrus taste and of course chili, if you order this. Lavaret or whitefish is one of the best Finnish fishes to prepare like this.

For main courses we had Cod and Crispy Noodles Fried cod, noodles and spicy ginger sauce and Salmon Teriyaki Roasted salmon and sweet teriayki sauce.

Cod is excellent fish, a little bit under valued. If there had been less deep frying, this portion would have been really delicious. Dish was fine tuned due to our request and sauce was luscious.

Unfortunately salmon was a little bit over roasted but side dishes, thai salad and sauce, matched brilliantly with the fish.

For wine we chose Weingut Weegmüller, Riesling Trocken 2012, Pfalz, Germany. Nice basic riesling, not so typical size, 1 liter.

As starters and main courses were quite heavy, we settled for espresso and tea. Tea pot was matching with Yume style.

Interesting detail is the location of extra cutlery. They were hidden in a small box under the table, but only on one side.

Yume is one of the best “gourmet” Asian cuisine restaurants in Helsinki. As it is in the center of the city, next door to Hotel Kämp, it’s location is also perfect. Would have liked to give 4 1/2 for food, but main courses are most important part of dinner. Clear improvement was more use of spices, herbs and chili.

Modern rhythm music is not too loud and most of the tables are not thick on the ground, which makes discussion possible. Service was again professional as expected.

Next time, which will definately come, we shall try Hot Stone dishes. Scent in the restaurant is attractive due to several sizzling stones on the tables. It is not disruptive at all, which may be the case in some restaurants with the same idea.

REVIEW: FOOD 4+/5 – SERVICE 4+/5 – OVERALL GRADE 4+/5

http://ravintolayume.fi/en/

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Tags: asian restaurant, fine dining, Finland, Hotel Kämp, Restaurant Yume, Yume
Categories : Food, Food and Wine, Helsinki, Hotel, Restaurant, Restaurant review, Travel, Wine

Hotel review: AC Hotel Malaga Palacio

24 09 2014

Hotel AC Palacio in Malaga is part of Marriot hotel chain. The location between the Málaga Cathedral and the Paseo del Parque, and its spectacular views of the port, make this hotel one of the must stay hotels. Hotel has 214 rooms and was renovated 2007.

ROOM

We chose to stay at AC Superior Room with sea view and balcony. No doubt the view is spectacular.

Room was basically fine and decorated with wooden interior.

Had some trouble with bathroom, as we had to wait for light bulb change quite a long time, although lady in the reception promised, it would be done during the same afternoon. We even removed “Do not disturb” sign, as she said that no one would come, if it would hang on the door. So we called next day again as no one has visited our room. Then the pipe under the sink began to leak and it had to be replaced. Quite a lot disturbance for 4 nights stay….

PUBLIC SPACES

The fifteenth-floor Ático Bar & Restaurant on the terrace of the Hotel AC Málaga Palacio, is for use in both summer and winter times thanks to its panoramic glass space. A entity where you can enjoy a dinner or have a drink. From its terrace you can enjoy stunning views of the city, especially the port and the Paseo del Parque. Reservation is required and it can also be rented for private events. In this case, the catering service and bar located on the first floor will be available for our customers.

Consequently, the restaurant and its terrace may be closed certain days. During our stay there were bachelor party and wedding party. Pool area is anyway available all the time and in the summer evenings it is quite noisy.

Outdoor pool at 15th floor is perfect place to relax after walking around the city. Atico restaurant & bar services can be utilized at the pool area, no need to starve.

Below you can also see La Piscina Lounge at 8th floor, which is part of Hotel Molina Lario. Last time we stayed in that hotel, see review by using search.

Breakfast is at the 2nd floor. It is not so versatile as in many similar hotels, actually only tomatoes for vegetables.

Lobby area is to the right from reception. Same furnitures as in all AC hotels, for instance Barcelona chairs.

One hint concerning elevators; there are three main elevators which are often reserved during rush hours. There is one elevator, which is partly hidden. That is usually free, but it does not go to the 15th floor, where Atico Bar & Restaurant as well as pool are located. Take that anyway and use stairs from 13th to 15th floor. We used that elavator also during breakfast times.

AC Malaga Palacio lobby - reijosfood.com

If you like to keep-fit, you can of course jog along the beach promenade.

However, hotel has small gym, which is equipped with cardiovascular equipment and weights.

Gym at AC Malaga Palacio - reijosfood.com

Mobile check-in and check-out is extremely customer friendly service. With Marriot apps you can check-in 24 hours earlier, choose check-in time and you get notification, when you can pick up the room key. As we arrived early at 11.00, we were able to get room with the help of this brilliant system.

Without two maintenance operations in our room, grade for room would have been 4. 15th floor Atico Bar & restaurant and pool area are definately worth to see and visit although you would not stay at the hotel.

REVIEW: ROOM 4-/5 – PUBLIC SPACES 4+/5 – OVERALL GRADE 4+/5

Strait of Gibraltar Hotels | AC Hotel Algeciras

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Tags: AC Hotel Malaga Palacio, AC Superior Room, Atico Bar & Restaurant, Hotel AC Málaga Palacio, Malaga, Marriot, Restaurant Atico, Spain
Categories : Bar, Hotel, Hotel review, Restaurant, Travel

Hotel review: Swissotel Tallinn, Estonia

7 09 2014

Five-star hotel Swissotel Tallinn is the highest building in the city, boasting impressive views of the old town and the Baltic Sea. 238 rooms and the facilities of this hotel should leave nothing to be desired and it did not indeed.

Check-in and check-out are quick, one of the most comfortables we have experienced.

ROOMS

We always ask for room in upper floors and our 2nd visit was rewarded with room from 29th floor with quite nice view to Tallinn harbour. Hotel also brought to our surprise a bottle of Laurent-Perrier champagne. What would be a better way to feel welcome.

We stayed at Swiss Executive room, which would had provided access to the Swiss Executive Lounge, which offers a range of special features like complimentary beverages, snacks & newspapers, as well as complimentary meeting space. Unfortunately did not have time to enjoy the facility at all.

Room is spacious and elegantly decorated. And bathroom well equipped with shower and bathtub.

PUBLIC SPACES

Public spaces are actually so exclusive that you could spend all the time at the hotel.

On the 11th floor there is heated indoor pool with Finnish sauna and a state-of-the-art fitness club. Purovel Spa and Sport is the perfect retreat after a long day out, offering a wide selection of treatments, from hydrotherapy to hot stone massages.

Unisex sauna was least attractive because it was quite simple; steam sauna’s suit better to spa’s. Maybe it has been there ealier as it was mentioned on hotel website. But would would be better to bathe in heated pool?

Tallinn’s “highest” culinary landmark is at the top of Swissôtel Tallinn, with views far out over the Baltic Sea and the medieval old town. Restoran Horisont and bar offer fine dining and drinks at 30th floor. Restaurant is ranked in 1st place on list of Tallinn best restaurants. Unfortunately we were not able to eat at the restaurant this time either because it was under renovation. Maybe 3rd time we are lucky.

Cafe Swiss is at the 8th floor serving breakfast buffet (can recommend, lacked only sweet pastries), lunch and dinner. Service at breakfast was polite and professional. You could order extra goodies from waitresses which kitchen would prepare right away.

Lobby includes reception, bar and coffee shop. Same waiters operated both places, service again thoughtful. Easy also just to drop, by if you want to take a peek.

Swissotel Tallinn is excellent place to spend long weekend. For 5 star hotel it is also quite affordable. Service is excellent and athmosphere relaxed.

Department store Stockmann is only 150 meters away from the hotel and walk to old town takes about 15 minutes.

REVIEW: ROOM 5-/5 – PUBLIC SPACES 5-/5 – OVERALL GRADE 5/5

Tallinn Hotel – Luxury Hotel Tallinn – Swissotel Tallinn

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Tags: Cafe Swiss, Champagne, Estonia, Purovel Spa & Sport, Restaurant Horisont, Swissotel Tallinn, Tallinn
Categories : Cafe, Champagne, Hotel, Hotel review, Restaurant, Travel

Hotel review: Regatta – boutique hotel in Hanko, Finland

23 08 2014

Regatta Hotel is a modern boutique hotel located in Hanko in the Finnish architect Lars Sonck planned Art Nouveau building from 1898. There have always been hotel business in the famous cultural building and in 2012 the hotel opened again after a complete renovation.

Hotel Regatta has 49 different rooms, including 2 single rooms, 45 double rooms and 2 suites (Regatta Suite and Lars Sonck Suite). Each room has its own air conditioning, safe, LCD- TV film- and information-system, internal phone, kettle and hairdryer. The rooms are on the first to fourth floor and accessible by elevator or by one of the two staircases.

This was our 2nd visit to Regatta, so everything was already familiar to us.

ROOM

We had Superior Plus room on the 4th floor with a nice view to the sea. Room itself was modern and cozy. In the summer small fridge would be useful, as there was no mini bar either. Bathroom was small, too small for this type of room. But same room level last time and the bathroom was superb. Take a look at yellow bath tube, which we expected to see also this time.

PUBLIC SPACES

In the summer terraces are best part of the public spaces. Patio terrrace especially with cozy chairs tempts you for glass of champagne. Terrace by the street is also relaxing, but unfortunately had one of the worst rose wines ever.

Hotel does not have own dinner restaurant, as there are several nice restaurants nearby. In the winter time that might be deficiency, but in the summer you want to eat at some of the restaurants by the sea.

Hotel Regatta is the the best hotel or accomodation place in Hanko. Before it was renovated there was a big gap in that business. Only thing what I miss is the swimming pool, which was in front of the original hotel Regatta several years ago. The sea is 50 meters away but hotel swimming pool would complete luxury.

With fridge and same bathroom as last time, room would have been 5+. As there is only breakfast room and terraces, public spaces is close to 4.

But as the building is nicely built and athmosphere is luxorius with BMW test drive opportunity not forgetting local standards, overall grade is close to 5.

Must stay, if visiting Hanko.

REVIEW: ROOM 4+/5 – PUBLIC SPACES 4-/5 – OVERALL GRADE 5-/5

Hotel Regatta | Ajatonta nautintoa – ympäri vuoden

Comments : 3 Comments »
Tags: boutique hotel, Champagne, Finland, Hanko, Hotel Regatta
Categories : Art, Champagne, Hotel, Hotel review, Travel

Hotel Manta of Helsinki – built around the statue of Havis Amanda

16 08 2014

Hotel Manta of Helsinki is a hotel room built around the statue of Manta in Market Square. The space designed by Tatshu Nishi serves as a hotel room by night, and as an open exhibition space during the day. The work not only creates a new surrealist setting for the monument, it offers a new perspective on the statue. Manta can now be met at eye level; also privately during the nights, if you were able to book the room.

The project is produced by the Helsinki Art Museum and it is part of the Helsinki Festival programme. In cooperation with Museum of Finnish Architecture and Design Museum. The work is supported by The Cenetary Foundation of the Finnish Society of Crafts and Design.

As visiting times during Helsinki Festival are between 11.30 – 17.30, cleaning up must be made in hurry. The cost for visit is 3€.

Hotel Manta of Helsinki was opened on the 15th of August and waiting for the first customer must have been exciting.

Hotel room was sold out in a minute, which is not surprising. Being part of art work must be fascinating. And price for night is not expensive, 130€. But of course without breakfast, which you can enjoy after checking out for instance at Market Square cafes.

Because of daily visiting hours, check-in can not be before 18.00 and check-out has to be made before 11.00.

Windows without curtains ensure that statue of Manta is visible all the time.

The statue is in the middle of the hotel room and actually splits twin bed. It sort of stands between the pillows.

Let’s see what is the condition of statue of Manta after Helsinki Festival celebrations will end. They will take two months.

Behind the link is also web camera pictures from past days.

Hotel Manta of Helsinki.

Comments : 3 Comments »
Tags: Finland, Havis Amanda, Helsinki, Helsinki Festival, Hotel Manta of Helsinki, Market Square, Statue of Manta
Categories : Art, Helsinki, Hotel, Travel

Restaurant review: Pöllöwaari (Jyväskylä)

22 07 2014

Boutique hotel Yöpuu in Jyväskylä, Finland is located in historic building which was built 1928. In the same building operates fine dining restaurant Pöllöwaari, where we dined during our stay at the hotel.

Restaurant has two dining hall’s and private cabinets. You could also eat at the small terrace outside.

Restaurant concept includes Winebar, where we tasted some wines a year ago. Great experience (https://reijosfood.com/2013/08/08/wine-tasting-without-advance-booking/). Nice “after taste” from that visit was the reason, why we decided to stay in this privately owned hotel instead of chain ones (hotel review coming later).

You could enjoy one of the three tasting menus like “Tour of the land” or “Voyage of the senses” depending on how many portions you would like to eat.

We ordered from a la carte list first starters and main courses. The dinner started with delicious greetings from the kitchen. As you can see from the cover plate, restaurant uses Iittala “Taika” set of dishes.

For starters we ordered Whitefish & black currant with cucumber and sour cream and Lobster & cherry tomato with pumpkin seed and chervil.

Take a look at those portions, like art?! Whitefish had been colored with blueberry and taste of berries was perfect with black currant. There was also whitefish roe on the plate which is one of the best Finnish roes.

Warm lobster made another starter extravagant and it it really tasted like it. There was also lobster inside warm croquet. One of the best starters ever eaten.

Main courses were Pike-perch & potato with celery, pea and lemon and Flounder & scallop with orange, sea sorrel and sparkling wine.

Pöllöwaari had not been able to get fresh pike-perch and it served whitefish instead. Lemon was actually hollandaise sauce which was excellent. Whitefish was a little bit overcooked but fish skin was eatable as it was enough crispy.

Sea sorrel is rare side dish and new for us. Portion included quite a lot cauliflower which was not mentioned in the name of dish. Should have because the amount of it was 10 times more than sea sorrel. Disussed about that with head waitress, but maybe she did not understand our message. Scallop was fried as it should be, not overcooked.

For desserts we ordered Cranberry & blond chocolate with rye and rosemary and Lemon & meringue with limoncello and curd.

Cranberry mousse seems to smile waiting for someone to eat it. Half sweet, 1/4 salty and 1/4 bitter; excellent combination. Lemon dessert was scrumptious, not much more to say.

Restaurant uses lot’s of herbs. At the terrace there are boxes chef’s visit regularly. A proofpoint of fresh herbs chef’s grow by themselves.

Restaurant Pöllöwaari is fine dining restaurant worth to try. Most of the portion names follow the trend; two main food ingredients named. Usually no more explantions but Pöllöwaari tried to give some more information by mentioning 2-3 other ingredients. This is difficult because you can not not name all but they should be well chosen. The discussion about sea morrel and cauliflower was one example.

Service was precious, maybe a little bit rigid. When dishes were brought to the table, contents were explained precisely.

From wine list, which included excellent cellar wines, we chose Domaines Schlumberger Riesling Grand Cru Kessler 2008. Golden yellow aromatic wine which paired well with fish dishes. Unfortunately not available Alko’s regarding to waitress.

REVIEW: FOOD 4,5/5 – SERVICE 4-/5 – OVERALL GRADE 4,5/5

http://www.hotelliyopuu.fi/en/3/2/Restaurant

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Tags: fine dining restaurant, Finland, Hotel Yöpuu, Jyväskylä, Pöllöwaari, Restaurant Pöllöwaari
Categories : Food, Food and Wine, Hotel, Restaurant, Restaurant review, Travel

Hotel review: Molina Lario – Malaga, Spain

10 05 2014

Hotel Molina Lario is a 4 star superior hotel positioned in the centre of Malaga right opposite the Cathedral and just a short distance from the port, the Picasso Museum and the city’s pedestrian district. The recently built hotel is formed by two refurbished 19th century buildings retaining their original façade and a third completely new building.

RESTAURANTS

El Café de Bolsa Restaurant & Bar serves lunch and dinner, which you can enjoy either in the outdoor garden-terrace (between hotel buildings, no view to outside) or inside the restaurant. Only half bottle of Cava available was the worst can remember for ages. There is also small terrace which opens onto the pedestrian street, best place to observe by-passers and other restaurant terraces, but quite bald.

Restaurant operates also as a breakfast room and is quite crowded during the busiest time in the morning. However, breakfast was excellent. You could order from the list glass of cava, toast or crepes, which we tried.

We had lunch (separate post) just to check the level of the kitchen and it was not at the level of hotel.

Piscina Lounge is the bar on the eighth floor, boasting views of Málaga, and having become the meeting point in the city centre, where you can enjoy an after-work drink, (tapas) or midnight cocktails. The rooftop bar has added a new space and direct out door access to a terrace on the eight floor. These areas become more lively are more widely open in the summer time, of course. In the winter time 6th floor lounge/night club is only open during weekends.

But… there were only 5 sun beds at the terrace by the pool. They were big, but only 5. So, do not to expect too much, if you like sunbathing. However, late in the afternoon, you might have to wriggle between sunbathers in order to see the sea.

ROOMS

103 rooms are located in the refurnished 19th century hotel building or in new construction depending on the classification. We accommodated in DELUXE room which located in the old building at 2nd floor. As we arrived early, way before normal check-in time, we did not want to make complaint about the smell of cigar in the room. We also noticed that there was not so much storage for belongings. Otherwise all in place; bath robes, slippers, etc….

Whisky bottle in the room was unique detail; actually would have preferred cold Cava. Who can drink whisky every day, maybe for breakfast with few pistach peanuts? We preferred generous breakfast at Cafe de Bolsa.

CONCLUSION

Hotel Molina Lario is stylish hotel and suitable for a few nights stay. Probably one of the best hotels in Malaga for business travellers. Because there are no drawers for clothes and only six coat hangers in the cabinet, you have to store them in suitcase, if you stay longer.

Because of location hotel is perfect choice for exploring old town/pedestrian district, museums and modernized harbour area. And it takes only 20 minutes to drive to Benalmadena Puerto Marina by taxi.

You could also just visit La Piscina Lounge bar in the afternoon or evening and have a drink, listen music and enjoy the harbour view. Elevators are close to reception, just go there!

http://www.hotelmolinalario.com/en

Comments : Leave a Comment »
Tags: cava, El Cafe de Bolsa, Hotel, hotel buildings, Hotel review, La Piscina Lounge, Malaga, Molina Lario
Categories : Hotel, Hotel review, Travel

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Hotel review: Swissotel Tallinn, Estonia

Hotel review: Regatta – boutique hotel in Hanko, Finland

Hotel Manta of Helsinki – built around the statue of Havis Amanda

Restaurant review: Pöllöwaari (Jyväskylä)

Hotel review: Molina Lario – Malaga, Spain

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