Five Guys in Harlow Essex

Five Guys, Harlow link

When Five Guys, the American burger chain opened their first branch in London over a year ago there were queues round the block. Soon we saw Five Guys popping up around the UK and most excitedly one in Harlow, a town I visit often for a spot of retail therapy. This could certainly be dangerous.

If you read my burger battle between Five Guys and Shake Shack you will remember that Five Guys was the winner for me so how would this local branch compare?

Despite popping along for my visit weeks after it's opening the store was packed full of people hungrily waiting for their burgers, it certainly seemed to take a lot longer than the London branch had but that could just be due to my being so hungry.

Everything you recognise from Five Guys is at this local branch, the familiar red and white decor, the menu and of course the famous drinks machine offering all manner of soft drinks you could wish for (cherry 7 Up zero for me).

Despite the numbers there is plenty of seating in this large branch and finally I was handed my brown paper bag which was promptly ripped open ready to dive into. On this occasion the fries which were previously such a hit didn't quite hit the spot, delicious but dare I say too 'potatoe-y' and firm than I remembered.

I once again went for the double burger with bacon and cheese and it was delicious and high quality there is no denying that but it just felt too dry and heavy to enjoy, especially on top of the chips. Now I'm not one with a small appetite but I struggled to eat this. As I sat and enjoyed my burger overlooked by Ben we debated the burger venues available to us. I still rate Patty & Bun as my number one but Ben finds them 'too wet' and prefers Five Guys so I think it all comes down to the style of burger you prefer. Either way I'm glad to have this piece of Americana down the road and we all know this won't be my last visit.

Are you a Five Guys fan?

Frankie & Bennys Breakfast Menu, Harlow Essex

On a rare day off work my plans for a lie in were thwarted when I remembered the cleaner was due a visit so I jumped in the car and headed to the local shopping centre to tackle the days to do list. Strolling past a newly opened Frankie & Benny's I noticed they had a £5 breakfast menu and hearing my belly rumbling I decided to treat myself to some bacon and pancakes.

Unfortunately I wished I hadn't - it was not good. I appreciate for £5 what can you expect but... rubbery pancakes which I have no doubt were reheated and under cooked bacon nowhere near the crispiness you need when accompanying pancakes and then the maple syrup. I love maple syrup but this arrived drowning the plate. I actually didn't even eat it all it was that bad and I'm not one to not clear my plate.

All in all a disappointing experience - have you had more success from Frankie & Benny's breakfast menu?

Miller & Carter Steak Night, Epping Essex

Last night the BFF and I decided a night of steak of red wine was needed. Not wanting to travel too far from home we went to our local Miller & Carter restaurant. I chose the 8oz fillet medium rare and it was cooked to perfection. Served with their gorgeous signature onion loaf, fries, iceberg lettuce wedge and a glass of Malbac it went down a treat. I often pick steak when dining out as it never seems to taste quite the same when cooked at home. 

It would also seem Miller & Carter has the seal of approval from David Beckham's mum and sister who were dining along side us - no sign of Posh though!

You're having a Giraffe

When my brother suggested lunch at Giraffe for my birthday I jumped at the chance especially with these two for company (and he was paying!)

They do the best sweet potato fries which I had with a chicken quesadilla

After lunch it was straight to see mum for macaroons

and presents!!

The evening was spent in the company of friends on the sofa with a chicken kebab - pure class! 

Thank you for all your lovely messages yesterday, I couldn't have had a more wonderful day