As I’ve been a fully fledged food PR for the past couple of years, I’ve decided to document what I’ve learnt and the things that spark my interest. People often ask if I love my job, even other PR professionals. The allure of food always ignites peoples’ curiosity. And I do love what I do. I love eating food even more however.

I thought I would kick off my food blog with a nod to the illustrious Michelin Guide, which today announced its 2012 listings. A big shout out to The Black Swan in Helmsley for its new star, but what interests me more are the Bib Gourmands, awarded to ‘good value’ restaurants. da Polpo in Covent Garden, one of my favs, got a nod this year, but it’s a restaurant closer to home, that I think deserves recognition.

Mangal 1 in Dalston, not only offers the most delicious, mouth watering (ocakbasi) grilled meats, but it’s also BYOB. What more could a group of girls living in London ask for?! Well, it ticks all of my friends’ boxes anyway.
It’s been open for over 20 years and has a string of celebrity fans (we bumped into Jamie Oliver dining with his family in there a couple of months ago), as well as a list of accolades.

My favourite is the LAMB YOGURTLU BEYTI. I could eat it every night, juicy lamb chunks smothered in yogurt, or simple lamb ribs? YES please!

Get yourself down to Arcola Street, E8!