Topic ID 1158
As the thread has been closed.......here's my own review. Last time I went there it was the Reindeer (or hooden horse) so stepping through the door was a bit of a shock. What an absolutely clean simple and warm interior. We had drinks at the bar, and there was no rush to get us seated, so it was certainly relaxing. The menu was very well balanced and simple. Wish we hadn't ordered the extra veg as I didn't have room for the pudding. Afterwards we relaxed by the fire and had a chat with Justin. Now if you are in any doubt about the food retuarant or chef, then go and look in the kitchen, as I couldn't believe how smal it was as well as immaculate. Even more amazing is the fact that Justin cooks it on his own. I get in a sweat cooking christmas dinner for 10 let alone what he manages. ....and the bill.......considering what we had and the quality, I'd say it's worth every penny. Granted I couldn't afford to do it every week, but it was certainly worth the money. A big than you to Justin and staff for such a fab night.
Reply ID 13847
Totally agree. Took Mrs Matt there last Saturday for our xmas dinner (have to fit it around babysitter availability!) and we had a lovely meal. The place was warm and cosy and the food was excellent. Liked the open fire as well as it was a chilly night.[:)][:)]
Reply ID 13860
At last we made it for dinner! I just wanted to thank you for a fantastic meal and evening. We loved all the tasting treats as well. I only wish we could have sat around longer, but a husband on nightshift limits time, it was so relaxing and inviting we could have stayed all night. Have a wonderful Christams and A successful New Year.
Reply ID 13881
quote:Thank you michell. glad you enjoyed it and will pop in to see you in new year. Have a great xmas too.
Originally posted by michell
At last we made it for dinner! I just wanted to thank you for a fantastic meal and evening. We loved all the tasting treats as well. I only wish we could have sat around longer, but a husband on nightshift limits time, it was so relaxing and inviting we could have stayed all night. Have a wonderful Christams and A successful New Year.
Reply ID 13886
'Thank you michell. glad you enjoyed it and will pop in to see you in new year. Have a great xmas too.' Good to see you watching over your flock [:)]
Reply ID 13964
Fantastic evening. Got a little worse for wear so the exact details (& I forgot my posh-grub journal) are hazy but here goes: Started off with pan fried, still pink foie gras (drool) served with mi-cuit foie gras with - glory be!, I've not seen them since Villandry! - *green* figs (woohoo!)(far better than those nasty, yukky, bitter, tough, black figs[V][:(]) and a very interesting jelly made with some of the recommended sweet wine which was glorious and very good indeed. P had the mushrooms & beautiful bursting kidneys on brioche. Superb savoury quality that didn't dent the main course. Main course - both fell for the juniper rubbed venison with roast celeriac. Beautifully pink & tender venison, perfect celeriac, a wonderful marriage of flavours. The red cabbage was quite german with the hot vinegar. The Aglianico Sinthesi wine was a new one on us and it turns out that it's been in the Hillside cellar for a month or so and we were the first to try it. It was superb. Very unpretentious, with an old-world complexity, good acid/tannin balance. Went perfectly with the venison (or even any red meat). Pudding - cheese board (no surprise there) and very good combination. The tarte tatin had chunky sweet, perfectly cooked (no mush in sight) apple and a lovely crisp base. Exemplary service as usual and I think we may be getting used to that particular table - please engrave it as ours...[;)]. No, seriously, bagsy that table from now on.[8D] Justin, we're really sorry if we kept you or your staff up late but we were really enjoying ourselves. Still in awe of your tiny kitchen. You deserve your star all the more because of it. Really enjoyed our chat & hope to be back soon.
Reply ID 13966
Was in again Friday with some pals. Fantastic again 10/10. A black pudding fest for me!!!!
Reply ID 13972
I was lucky to be taken to this superb restaurant for a lovely informal Sunday lunch for my recent 40th Birthday and I had Zander.. a fish I know my dad used to catch.. It was superb.. I like the warmth, the attention to detail and the food is outstanding.. Its a real treat for me and lovely and relaxed.. Love the Hillside...[:D]
Reply ID 14024
I wish I had not just read this topic, I am extremely hungry now! Looking forward to my next visit which is going to be....alas next year now! Maybe a January winter blues treat [:)] and F&F don't you go pinching the tables......please share!
Reply ID 14036
Pay a visit to you Justin soon,sound's very nice. Any children allowed? 14 @ 12 year olds I say. {Lunchtime} is that ok ? Half Term u see lookinng 4 somewhere 2 go.
Reply ID 14462
Dell, this has been asked before, so I will answer for Justin. I believe he said as long as they were well behaved, as I am sure they will be. Give it a go, you will not regret it.
Reply ID 21339
Yet another great meal on Saturday night. One of the steaks was a bit tough, BUT it was changed without any fuss what so ever to one from another batch and pretty quickly too. Shame it was so hot but the food and service was excellant.
Reply ID 22608
Went there at the weekend and it was an excellent meal. Mmmm...
Reply ID 22672
Went last night and can recommend a visit if you enjoy fish/seafood. Options included lobster, oysters, crayfish, brill and some south african (?) fish that my wife had but I cannot remember the name of. For desert, I highly recommend the pannacotta with poached strawberries. With the fish, ask for the Sancerre which is not on the wine list and is just superb.
Reply ID 22705
quote:Good stuff Paul, if i had seen yoou id have said hello, sory, was very busy.
Originally posted by 2929paul
Went last night and can recommend a visit if you enjoy fish/seafood. Options included lobster, oysters, crayfish, brill and some south african (?) fish that my wife had but I cannot remember the name of. For desert, I highly recommend the pannacotta with poached strawberries. With the fish, ask for the Sancerre which is not on the wine list and is just superb.
Reply ID 22739
quote:Kingclip is the fish, very nice, id describe it as a cross between, cod and halibut
Originally posted by 2929paul
Went last night and can recommend a visit if you enjoy fish/seafood. Options included lobster, oysters, crayfish, brill and some south african (?) fish that my wife had but I cannot remember the name of. For desert, I highly recommend the pannacotta with poached strawberries. With the fish, ask for the Sancerre which is not on the wine list and is just superb.
Reply ID 22777
Justin could you tell me if you ever take bookings to use the whole restaurant please and how many people could be seated. It would be for a Saturday or a Sunday night. Thanks
Reply ID 22816
please contact me at the restaurant 554556
Reply ID 22865
I am going to give it another go Justin and then perhaps we can kiss and make up after our previous tiff!!! If you will allow me of course. The vast majority of the website are raving over your gaff so perhaps I should eat a large slice of humble pie and give the place another try.
Reply ID 22903
quote:No, if you had a bad experience then thats all fine, occasionally this happens, not often mind you. You and anybody are always welcome to the hillside, but can you tell me when you are booking and under what name as i would love to come out and say hi. There is no tiff, and i dont kiss!!![:D]
Originally posted by Wrapper
I am going to give it another go Justin and then perhaps we can kiss and make up after our previous tiff!!! If you will allow me of course. The vast majority of the website are raving over your gaff so perhaps I should eat a large slice of humble pie and give the place another try.
Reply ID 26564
Thanks for a lovely evening last night. We all had a good time and the food and service was excellent. Thank you sooo much for cooking my steak 'well done' as I asked, it was beautifully cooked without question. The food is always a real treat to look forward to!
Reply ID 28534
Hi, I noticed your menu is out of date on your website. http://www.thehillside.co.uk/menus.htm
Reply ID 28550
quote:it is only a sample menu, but i will put a recent one up
Originally posted by Sargasso
Hi, I noticed your menu is out of date on your website. http://www.thehillside.co.uk/menus.htm
Reply ID 31952
Justin - what are your New Year opening hours? Have looked on the website but to no avail Ta [:)]
Reply ID 31978
quote:open xmas day for lunch, still a table or 2 left! closed 26,27,28,open 29, 30, 31, special 7 course dinner 0n new years eve, closed 1st open as normal from 2nd.
Originally posted by dytter
Justin - what are your New Year opening hours? Have looked on the website but to no avail Ta [:)]
Reply ID 32277
I rang up about Christmas on Sunday. Was offered an e-mailed menu - still waiting.
Reply ID 32278
perhaps they did not take your correct address. I would ring up again. I am taking 20 tonight and really looking forward to it. Justin and his staff could not have been more helpful. I am salivating as I type!!!!!!!!!!!!![:p]
Reply ID 33189
Still Waiting.
quote:
Originally posted by Paul
I rang up about Christmas on Sunday. Was offered an e-mailed menu - still waiting.
Reply ID 33191
did you call them back and ask again?
Reply ID 33203
I dont know why you need a menu anyway. Just turn up and order like you would for every other restaurant
Reply ID 33370
Yep. Told it was being dealt with.
quote:
Originally posted by Victor Meldrew
did you call them back and ask again?
Reply ID 34572
WooHoo, making my first visit to the Hillside on Friday for Mrs TheFair1973's birthday. Really looking forward to Justin's Culinary delights
Reply ID 34603
Me and my husband went a few months ago and it was superlative. Excellent food and wine, and that was my husband's verdict too, who is a chef!
Reply ID 34615
New Year's Eve was pretty special too!! [:p] Though I was beaten by the meat course which was a shame.... Nice company and a great atmosphere too.
Reply ID 34942
Thinking about taking my beloved there for Valentines Day (we've been talking about going for ages) - is it the usual menu?
Reply ID 34953
quote:sorry, fully booked
Originally posted by Newbie
Thinking about taking my beloved there for Valentines Day (we've been talking about going for ages) - is it the usual menu?
Reply ID 36401
Congratulations, Justin, and Jurga.....on the full entry in the Michelin Guide.
Reply ID 36421
Pity the writer of the article in The Mercury which mentioned the Michelin entry couldn't get the location of The Hillside right. They've given it as being in Port Vale.......you would have thought that the name "HILLside" might have been a clue.........but then again it is The Mercury
Reply ID 36760
Went to the Hillside last night with a friend. The service was excellent - attentive and timely without being overly fussy. The house aperitif (white wine with raspberry liquer) was a nice touch and also delicious, and the food was cooked to perfection. The atmosphere is warm with soft lighting and the noise level was about right. I will definitley be returning!
Reply ID 36811
It's the best restaurant in Hertford by a country mile. Me and the wife love it whenever we go. Great service and great food. The only down side, which isn't that bad is that they usually only ever have one veggie main meal available as seeing as the wife is a veggie sometimes makes it difficult for her. I get to choose from all the lovely food and she only get's the choice of one thing. If they changed that we'd be in there every week rather than once/twice a month. Keep up the good work though.
Reply ID 36839
quote:I agree. Me and my husband (who's a chef) love good restaurants, and The Hillside is lovely. But I'm veggie so if the one veggie meal that's on the menu doesn't appeal we don't go, and go to the Thai restaurant on St Andrew Street or Pizza Express. We'd love to go the The Hillside more often, but I'm not prepared to spend a not inconsiderable amount on a meal if it's something I really don't want. I think chefs get too caught up in the idea of producing a veggie meal that's really different to the stuff they usually cook. It's wierd, because some of the tastiest dishes from loads of countries (eg, Italian, Thai, Indian) are vegetarian, but it's not a big song and dance, they just get on with making meals that taste fab but just happen not to have meat in. I understand that most chefs in decent restaurants consider vegetarians to be the lowest of the low, but I think it's a really short sighted attitude. If chefs are imaginative they could come up with delicious veggie dishes that often cost much less to prepare than meaty ones, and would appeal to veggies and meat eaters too.
Originally posted by Bubbaoshea
It's the best restaurant in Hertford by a country mile. Me and the wife love it whenever we go. Great service and great food. The only down side, which isn't that bad is that they usually only ever have one veggie main meal available as seeing as the wife is a veggie sometimes makes it difficult for her. I get to choose from all the lovely food and she only get's the choice of one thing. If they changed that we'd be in there every week rather than once/twice a month. Keep up the good work though.
Reply ID 36871
If they could put 2/3 veggie options on the menu then me and the wife would be their all the time. I agree with what you are saying Jo, you can always offer a few different veggie options without too much trouble.
Reply ID 38351
quote:Having read the vegetarians comments 6 weeks or so ago, i tried 2 vegetarian main courses on the menu. What a waste of time! and money. I would only prepare maybe 6 portions of something at a time, but still, ended up ditching it, as not enough interest. It would be suicidal financially to put 3 vegetarian main courses on the menu just to throw in the bin, the fact is i dont mind cooking for vegetarians, and dont mind eating veg myself, but there just arent enough of you. So what i have decided is to have 1 dish, from 8 main courses that we have at any one time on the menu, and rotate it frequently.
Originally posted by Bubbaoshea
If they could put 2/3 veggie options on the menu then me and the wife would be their all the time. I agree with what you are saying Jo, you can always offer a few different veggie options without too much trouble.
Reply ID 38902
Justin, I'm sorry it didn't work out. May I just congratulate you though on making the effort to respond to the suggestions of the members on here - that sort of reaction is to be applauded! I'm only sorry that nothing more positive came of it this time, but thanks for making the effort. I'm hoping to come along to the Hillside again in a few weeks' time.
Reply ID 39130
Has anyone been recently? I am due to go soon for the first time with some friends from Enfield that I have told all about the good reviews it's had.[:p]
Reply ID 39135
quote:I went a couple of months ago. The quality was as high as previous visits.
Originally posted by BettyB
Has anyone been recently? I am due to go soon for the first time with some friends from Enfield that I have told all about the good reviews it's had.[:p]
Reply ID 39757
Made my first visit on Saturday night. Booking was for 9pm, we arrived at about 8.30 so we could have a drink first. First impressions very good, we were seated in the bar with menus to peruse. Lovely decor etc, similar feel to Jean-Cristophe Novelli's place in Harpendon. Other parties had their orders taken in the bar and were then seated but we were kind of left. We were finally seated at about 9.30 and, eye contact finally made, orders taken at 9.50, by which time we were getting a bit twitchy. But I am pleased to say that is the only thing I can find fault with. The food was fab, and the service, after the initial delay, was spot on. Nice atmosphere. Value for money,Yes. £170 for 2 bottles of wine, 2 bottles of water, 4 starters & main courses, 1 dessert, 1 liquer & 1 tea. I would definately go back.
Reply ID 39900
quote:thanks for coming, sorry if you experienced a delay. I only got back from two weeks leave, and found the bookings were not as staggered as normal and there was a huge amount of bookings at 9 pm. hope to see you soon.
Originally posted by BettyB
Made my first visit on Saturday night. Booking was for 9pm, we arrived at about 8.30 so we could have a drink first. First impressions very good, we were seated in the bar with menus to peruse. Lovely decor etc, similar feel to Jean-Cristophe Novelli's place in Harpendon. Other parties had their orders taken in the bar and were then seated but we were kind of left. We were finally seated at about 9.30 and, eye contact finally made, orders taken at 9.50, by which time we were getting a bit twitchy. But I am pleased to say that is the only thing I can find fault with. The food was fab, and the service, after the initial delay, was spot on. Nice atmosphere. Value for money,Yes. £170 for 2 bottles of wine, 2 bottles of water, 4 starters & main courses, 1 dessert, 1 liquer & 1 tea. I would definately go back.
Reply ID 40064
I wondered where you'd been. I've been calling for a week or so now to book a tbale but never had an answer. Anyway I wanted to eat with you on Wednesday but when I got through on Monday I was been told that you're closed on Wednesday, so maybe another time. Looking forward to the next time though and still wondering where to eat on Wednesday now that the Hillside is unavailable *weep*
Reply ID 40076
quote:Hi, i had been away, but we were still open, so someone should have answered. We are closed on wednesday evening for the opening of the college arms in hertford heath, back to normal on thursday
Originally posted by SallyB
I wondered where you'd been. I've been calling for a week or so now to book a tbale but never had an answer. Anyway I wanted to eat with you on Wednesday but when I got through on Monday I was been told that you're closed on Wednesday, so maybe another time. Looking forward to the next time though and still wondering where to eat on Wednesday now that the Hillside is unavailable *weep*
Reply ID 40085
My friend's come down from Leeds and we planned to eat with you after our fab previous visit, but he doesn't mind - he says he'll have to come down again ;-)
Reply ID 40086
quote:try the tilbury in datchworth - its not bad.
Originally posted by SallyB
My friend's come down from Leeds and we planned to eat with you after our fab previous visit, but he doesn't mind - he says he'll have to come down again ;-)
Reply ID 40108
We went to the Queen's Head in Churchgate Street - lovely.
Reply ID 40126
Justin, I received your professional-looking Spring/Summer leaflet/brochure in the post today. Very nice! See you soon. (Tried to come down tonight but you're, not surprisingly, fully booked).
Reply ID 41693
Great meal as usual last night, shame about some of the other customers - loud, uncouth and annoying other customers. Musical birthday card that kept being set off, party poppers, imitation (thankfully) spitting urgh. They'd be more suited to the curry house after they'd had a belly full of beer. Not really the sort of behaviour you'd expect from a group of 60 year olds. Difficult situation for the waitresses to handle.
Reply ID 41720
quote:yes, apologies for that, we dont like that kind of behaviour either, i believe they were told to keep the noise down once or twice.
Originally posted by CityBird
Great meal as usual last night, shame about some of the other customers - loud, uncouth and annoying other customers. Musical birthday card that kept being set off, party poppers, imitation (thankfully) spitting urgh. They'd be more suited to the curry house after they'd had a belly full of beer. Not really the sort of behaviour you'd expect from a group of 60 year olds. Difficult situation for the waitresses to handle.
Reply ID 44238
I had yet another scrumptious meal in the Hillside a couple of weeks ago. Pigeon starters as recommended on the 'Pigeons' thread [:)] and an equally yummy main course, but we were too full for desserts, sadly. The service was excellent and the wine I had was one of the best ever (although it was £50 a bottle!). The meal came to £126 for two of us, including the wine and 10% for the service. Will be back again soon, hopefully! How's that for a slice of fried gold? [:D]
Reply ID 45569
Had a fantastic meal here a few weeks ago ... I can't recommend this restaurant enough. I had the Sallops to start ... followed by the best loin of lamb I've ever had .... with the sorbet for dessert .... great atmos, great service, great food... what more can I say.
Reply ID 45820
azzza, I'm a regular there and keep going back. It's brilliant! Did you try the aperitif - the sparkling white wine with raspberry liqueur - it's delicious! I don't know if it's the regular aperitif these days, but it was once, and I have it every time now. The service is great in there. Always friendly and always have time to chat if you want to.
Reply ID 45875
All this talk of the Hillside has made me hungry. Think I'm gonna have to book at table from Friday night now.
Reply ID 46321
Went to the Hillside's Game night on Monday night and thought it was a marvellous idea. I'm not too au fait with the wider varieties of game and was really surprised at the differences in the game meats. Started with a variety of game-based canapés which were delicious and nearly ruined the appetite if self-control went out the window! Goose consomme, a generous slab of terrine with pickles, roast partridge with wet polenta followed by vacherin with chestnut honey and quince jelly. Four types of wine to boot. The game keeper from the estate that Justin gets his game from was there and you got to chat with him and ask him all sorts of questions, so was a non-stuffy wine dude who was really informal and informative. Sadly no Trivial Pursuits or Scrabble despite Mrs P's misunderstanding of a 'game' night. ...and it cost £40 per head inclusive! When's the next one, Justin!?
Reply ID 46337
Thanks for posting a review Mr P. I saw a flyer for the 'game night' and thought it looked good but your description sounds fabulous. £40 each including thoughtfully-matched wine is amazing value.
Reply ID 46342
After having the frankly superb venison at the Hillside a couple of Saturdays ago, I fancied attending the game night myself, but alas no babysitter available. Is this something you'll be running again?
Reply ID 47415
I've heard that Justin (the chef and once a frequent contributor to this forum) and his wife are leaving The Hillside, does anyone know any more? Have they left already? I just wondered, and if my info is wrong, I apologise.
Reply ID 47424
Nothing to do with the Reindeer on the roof 10 days ago Rachel?
Reply ID 47430
quote:No we are still here, as far as im aware !! We are planning a couple of events in jan, feb. Burns night on 28th january-5 course traditional burns dinner, champagne arrival £40 per head. game evening on 18th feb tbc. please call for enquiries.
Originally posted by Rachel
I've heard that Justin (the chef and once a frequent contributor to this forum) and his wife are leaving The Hillside, does anyone know any more? Have they left already? I just wondered, and if my info is wrong, I apologise.
Reply ID 47431
quote:Phew, good job I got my apology in in advance! [:)] Both events sound great.
Originally posted by justin No we are still here, as far as im aware !! We are planning a couple of events in jan, feb. Burns night on 28th january-5 course traditional burns dinner, champagne arrival £40 per head. game evening on 18th feb tbc. please call for enquiries.
Reply ID 48965
Was on the 9:30 sitting last night , wife had Venison , i had duck , 2 words ..... absolutely fantastic ! And all a 2 minute walk from home ... perfect .
Reply ID 52530
I see there is now a professionally printed menu in the window rather than the word processed sheet. Looking at it do I detect a menu likely to change less and a lowering of ambition from the past? Also looks as if there are more tables at the front rather than settees
Reply ID 53445
Believe that this has been bought by someone new. No longer part of Spice Inns. Menu is pretty standard and much cheaper than previously. However, food is not at all bad if you are just after something fairly plain. It is nothing like the previous Hillside cooking. No sittings now and tables now in the bar area (tables for two removed from the restaurant seating area).
Reply ID 53485
And judging by the notice in the window - closed until further!
Reply ID 53518
I spoke to the manager of the College Arms a couple of weeks ago and he said that the Spice Inn's were selling the Hillside. Probably all gone through now so if it's closed it could be for a refit.
Reply ID 55150
Is the Hillside open again yet does anyone know? I drove past on Thursday night and it looked closed.
Reply ID 55481
Does anyone know what happened or where Justin is. Is he cooking anywhere local now ? [?]
Reply ID 55484
Its a bit bizarre that the Hillside web site is still up and running - yet the Spice Inns site is not
Reply ID 55485
quote:Justin is not local. He went further afield.
Originally posted by jjr
Does anyone know what happened or where Justin is. Is he cooking anywhere local now ? [?]
Reply ID 55486
quote:Was it not Majorca?
Originally posted by Ewoowarquote:Justin is not local. He went further afield.
Originally posted by jjr
Does anyone know what happened or where Justin is. Is he cooking anywhere local now ? [?]
Reply ID 55488
quote:Not really - it's probably a case of pay to register the domain for (say)2 years and pay to host it for a similar amount of time. Then, if you leave the business or sell it on, why bother to take the web site down?
Originally posted by Leo Densian
Its a bit bizarre that the Hillside web site is still up and running - yet the Spice Inns site is not
Reply ID 55494
quote:Yes, Justin and Jurga are catering in a Exclusive Villa in Majorca. Well thats what they were doing in the summer, not sure if they are now though.
Originally posted by James007quote:Was it not Majorca?
Originally posted by Ewoowarquote:Justin is not local. He went further afield.
Originally posted by jjr
Does anyone know what happened or where Justin is. Is he cooking anywhere local now ? [?]
Reply ID 56504
not only has the Spice Inns web site gone down, but also that of the College Arms. That seemed to have transferred ownership to the Heath and Green Pub Company, along with the Cricketers Arms, but both have disappeared no too it seems. I find it strange that a restaurant that was as popular as the Hillside could have gone to pot so quickly after Justin left. He must have had days off and holidays when the food was equally as good when cooked by his other chefs? Shame for it to have gone and stayed closed for so long
Reply ID 56515
quote:Especially knowing just how long it has been a pub on that site............
Originally posted by thefair1973
not only has the Spice Inns web site gone down, but also that of the College Arms. That seemed to have transferred ownership to the Heath and Green Pub Company, along with the Cricketers Arms, but both have disappeared no too it seems. I find it strange that a restaurant that was as popular as the Hillside could have gone to pot so quickly after Justin left. He must have had days off and holidays when the food was equally as good when cooked by his other chefs? Shame for it to have gone and stayed closed for so long
Reply ID 56530
quote:Let's all chip in and buy it. We could have gourmet sausage and mash, cheese sandwiches, oh and don't forget the quality carling black label !!
Especially knowing just how long it has been a pub on that site............
Reply ID 56532
quote:Not true. Several people commented over quite a bit of time that when Justin wasnt in the kitchen the food quality at the hillside was no good. You also have to wonder given credit crunch whether it would have remained so popular anyway.
Originally posted by thefair1973
not only has the Spice Inns web site gone down, but also that of the College Arms. That seemed to have transferred ownership to the Heath and Green Pub Company, along with the Cricketers Arms, but both have disappeared no too it seems. I find it strange that a restaurant that was as popular as the Hillside could have gone to pot so quickly after Justin left. He must have had days off and holidays when the food was equally as good when cooked by his other chefs? Shame for it to have gone and stayed closed for so long
Reply ID 56534
quote:Good idea, but there's already a gourmet sausage and mash pub in tewin, how much sausages do hertfordshire people want to eat... :)
Let's all chip in and buy it. We could have gourmet sausage and mash, cheese sandwiches, oh and don't forget the quality carling black label !!
Reply ID 56535
the credit crunch is a myth. It should only really take effect when people lose their jobs and have no income to spend. At present, there's no reason for people to spend less.
Reply ID 56542
lol, those being moved to 4 day weeks, and those who work in construction and estate agency and banking will strongly disagree with you there! Never mind the 1,000's that have already lost their jobs anyway. but thats your opinion, so fair enough!
Reply ID 57567
quote:I heard last night Justin is now working over in Hunsdon......
Originally posted by jjr
Does anyone know what happened or where Justin is. Is he cooking anywhere local now ? [?]
Reply ID 57578
quote:I thought he went abroad?
Originally posted by Mouffloncakequote:I heard last night Justin is now working over in Hunsdon......
Originally posted by jjr
Does anyone know what happened or where Justin is. Is he cooking anywhere local now ? [?]
Reply ID 57581
quote:That was only for a few months - the Summer season I beleive.
Originally posted by Marilynquote:I thought he went abroad?
Originally posted by Mouffloncakequote:I heard last night Justin is now working over in Hunsdon......
Originally posted by jjr
Does anyone know what happened or where Justin is. Is he cooking anywhere local now ? [?]
Reply ID 57584
Oh right that explains it! Bet he is sorry to see The Hillside closed after all his hard work making it a success when he was there.
Reply ID 57621
If he had any sense, he'd buy the place. People would flock back to it and he'd get it on the cheap due to the fall in property prices.
Reply ID 57623
As I understand it The Hillside needed a fair bit of renovation work done to it. (Re-)opening as an independant is a tricky proposition in a declining market. Chains tend to do better as there's some level of backup for lean periods.
Reply ID 57624
but to my knowledge, the only lean period at the Hillside has been since Justin left?
Reply ID 57659
Mmm. <ponders> Well.. Erm... We know Justin & Jurga personally and I know others on this forum do too, yet I can't and won't comment on trade levels The Hillside experienced on this forum or anywhere else. Primarily out of respect for J&J, and also because all that wine will have probably enabled me to grab firmly onto the wrong end of the stick and spout even more drivellish drivel on the subject than normal!![:D][:D]
Reply ID 57905
Does anyone know if the fixtures and fittings are still in place? My missus commented the other day that the leather sofas were the most comfortable she's ever sat on. Just wondered if they were still in there...
Reply ID 57908
All furniture is still inside. They even still have places set at the tables! Very odd - My wife and I always wanted to buy the french dresser they had in there, would love to know who to contact as we'd buy it.
Reply ID 58128
quote:going off topic...but.... if you work in estate agency or banking then you've had such good times over the past 5 years that you should have the cash well stocked up and be able to ride these times out. No sympathy there I'm afraid. ote]
Originally posted by codek2
lol, those being moved to 4 day weeks, and those who work in construction and estate agency and banking will strongly disagree with you there! Never mind the 1,000's that have already lost their jobs anyway. but thats your opinion, so fair enough!
Reply ID 58137
quote:Not everybody who works in banking gets bonuses like the Traders do/did. I am talking from experience [:D]
Originally posted by gregbquote:going off topic...but.... if you work in estate agency or banking then you've had such good times over the past 5 years that you should have the cash well stocked up and be able to ride these times out. No sympathy there I'm afraid. ote]
Originally posted by codek2
lol, those being moved to 4 day weeks, and those who work in construction and estate agency and banking will strongly disagree with you there! Never mind the 1,000's that have already lost their jobs anyway. but thats your opinion, so fair enough!
Reply ID 59610
Shame this place closed. Great restaurant. Nothing else as good for miles around!
Reply ID 59623
We too are missing the Hillside, expecially sitting on the leather sofa by the fire in the winter months! Maybe we could all chip in, so that Justin and Jurga can re-open... They are now back in the country and Justin is helping out at the Fox and Hounds in Hunsdon. http://www.foxandhounds-hunsdon.co.uk
Reply ID 59624
Having eaten at the hillside numerous times before it closed i can at last say i have found somewhere just as good. Deco, although not as intimate as the the hillside, is just as good for food. Their new January menu is great value and the chef always pops in to see how things where, when there not too busy ! I am pleased to say that Deco is a great addition to Hertford.
Reply ID 59633
You can open the Hillside for as little as £44,345! http://www.punchpubs.co.uk/Punch/Punch+Pubs/Apply+and+find+a+pub/Display+by+county/ The College Arms is a little more expensive though...
Reply ID 67405
Sorry Admin in advance... We have now moved to Bury st edmunds and "pea porridge" will be opening 8th October. If any one finds themselves in Suffolk please drop by. http://www.peaporridge.co.uk
Reply ID 67406
quote:Good Luck Justin and Jurga, wishing you all the best with your new venture! Can't wait to celebrate another new years eve with you guys! Mr and Mrs Fired [:D]
Originally posted by justin
Sorry Admin in advance... We have now moved to Bury st edmunds and "pea porridge" will be opening 8th October. If any one finds themselves in Suffolk please drop by. http://www.peaporridge.co.uk
Reply ID 74288
I understand that Hillside is due to re-open..... as a vets! Well that is a quantum shift of purpose. This is only according to the decorator that was working there, but would make sense of the design changes to the interior where the old dining room has been separated into two rooms...
Reply ID 74289
What a shame![:(]
Reply ID 74295
and here too...http://www.hertford.net/yoursay/topic.php?id=5181 *J*[img]http://www.hertford.net/yoursay/topic.php?id=5181
Reply ID 78313
Of those of you that enjoyed visiting and the culinary delights of the Hillside, you'll be pleased to know that Justin & Jurga's new restaurant 'Pea Porridge' in Bury St Edmunds has just been voted Best Newcomer in the whole of the UK by the Hardens Restaurant Guide which is a fantastic achievement! We have been over there a few times and have had some fantastic courses including the risotto that was a favourite of ours at the Hillside Well done to Justin & Jurga
Reply ID 81544
The awards keep pouring in for Justin and Jurga at their new establishment 'Pea Porridge' where they were awarded 'Best new restaurant in UK' by craft guild of chefs last night!! A fantastic achievement Justin and Jurga! Well done
Reply ID 81561
agreed, since spoken with Justin as he as you would expect over the moon
Reply ID 82200
We went last night. Once again, after eating Justin's cooking I can die happy.