NOVELLI - AC MARRIOT

CHRISTMAS IN OCTOBER MAY seem odd for some though when you are in this game xmas venue’s plan months in advance and events take place as early as August.

On 25th October Novelli’s launch took place and what a day it was, we arrived approx. 12 noon, the place was decorated in festive Christmas fashion complete with Tree, tables were named after each of Santa’s Reindeers, and they were dressed with novelty Santa hats and Christmas crackers, all these touches really transported the guests to December.

Pre-Dinner we were spoiled with Cocktails and the most delicious wine, Conde Villar, Vino Verde which I have since order a box off, it was honestly that good unlike anything I’ve tasted before.

We were served 3 exquisite courses of food using locally sourced products and suppliers, I couldn’t fault the menu if I tried. To start we had Local beetroot and Jawbox gin cured salmon, Smoked salmon pate, Neill’s flour wheaten bread, Abernethy butter. Portion size was perfect, the wheaten was cooked in induvial loaf tins it was super cute, the Salmon was perfection, I particularly loved the Pate, oh and the butter I could have eaten it with a spoon.

The Main event I’ll describe as tradition with a little twist - Galloway turkey ballotine, Pork and herb stuffed roulade, crispy ham croquette, Ballymakenny potatoes, Armagh honey roasted root vegetables. Everything was divine though I must say I don’t usually eat roast potatoes, these were like something from a cookery programme, crispy on the outside and super smooth and soft inside, oh and I must mention the ham croquette, was not expecting this, such a nice change to regular ham and bravo for the Moorish stuffing – wow. And to complete the meal desert we were served Clementine and gingerbread trifle, Clementine sponge, gingerbread foam, this was so far removed from a traditional trifle and perfect in my opinion, I didn’t leave a scrap. I dabble in the kitchen myself and intend to try and recreate though I know mine won’t come close to this.

Jean Christophe was in attendance, what a pleasure meeting him, he was so friendly taking time to get to know each quest, spending time at each table.

Thanks to Jean Christophe, his team in the kitchen and all the staff at AC Marriott for the invite and such a lovely afternoon. Their Christmas menu will be running from the last week in November and throughout December and I cannot recommend enough. The price is £29.95 for 3 courses.

They also offer private dining for £39.95 to include a 3 course meal and a glass of bubbly on arrival or £45 option to include a 3 course meal, a glass of bubbly on arrival and a glass of wine with your meal.

If something more casual tickles your fancy they are offering Christmas Socials for groups which includes tapas and prosecco for only £20 per person.