Ah, mid-day. The bell chimes twelve and on-cue pangs of hunger rule you to drop what you’re doing and begin your daily feeding ritual. Today’s excursion led us to our friends (and neighbours) at ‘Kayla Brasserie’. No sooner did the thought occur, were we seated and evaluating menus and so begins the telling of our experience…
We sat up in the balcony overlooking a bustling restaurant. The décor was unique; bright, bold orange walls, glitzy chandeliers and glossy black furniture outfitted the two floors and basement. Our waiter arrived chirpy and keen to assist as he noted our order. We pondered our choices as we gazed at the incredible coving and statement paneled walls, taking in its architectural grandeur. Moments later a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc arrived – ah, the perfect mid-work elixir. Kayla boasts a sizeable wine list, with a variety of grapes and varietals, with a company of spirits and soft drinks too. But enough wine-talk and onto the food.
Our two-course endeavour began with ‘Grilled Goats Cheese’, ‘Mussels’, ‘Fish Cakes’ and ‘Breaded Brie’. Where to begin? …The goats cheese? The cheese itself was crumbly, warmed and pungent in flavour. Served with a side of caramelised balsamic onions, which made for a delightful sweet versus savoury contrast.
Among the sea-based family of foods, I’d say mussels have to be the best. Pebble sized portions of meat that slide down with ease, but in truth the star of this dish was the sauce; a creamy, garlic, onion and wine-packed sauce that left us defenceless to resist. The Fish Cakes were the perfect lunch snack and let’s not forget the Breaded Brie, which was everything we’d hope it would be. Molten cheese coated in crunchy breadcrumbs – oh so much cheesy joy! Served with a pot of cranberry sauce, we savoured each mouthful happier than kids in a candy store.
Before we had time to question the available space in our stomachs, mains arrived. I had opted for a comfort food favourite, ‘Tagliatelle Bolognese’. The mince was tender, heavily absorbed by garlicky sauce. Mmm garlic. The pasta was cooked as per Italian standards, ‘al dente’ and the sauce was moreish.
Among my colleague’s mains was the ‘Mediterranean Pizza’; Baked fresh in their very own clay oven, this pizza was crispy all the right places. Topped with tomato, buffalo mozzarella, goats cheese, peppers, onions, cherry tomatoes and a balsamic drizzle – so much goodness on one pizza. My co-diner Ciaran (or ‘Ciaran two burgers’ as we call him, for his un-tamable appetite) opted for the ‘Lamb Shank’ – definitely one for meat lovers. Served in a red wine and mushroom sauce and a side of mash, it was quite the dish.
As our meal came to a close, we sat and enjoyed the comfort of a full-stomach. We give Kayla a big thumbs up for a pleasant lunch and beautiful surroundings.
By Charlotte Williams
Contact Kayla Brasserie on:
t. 01202 554300
e. contact@kayla-brasserie.com
a. Kayla Brasserie, 42 Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 8AD
w. www.kayla-brasserie.com
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