But to mark the end of an incredible year together, Jack, Pippa, Mel and I decided that a final goodbye dinner was exactly what we needed. And where better than Bodos Schloss. The Kensington restaurant transports you into the world of the Austrian Alpines with its themed decor, traditional menu and staff kitted out in Ledehosen and Dirndl. A perfect choice to get us in the mood for Christmas.
I opted for a satin Oxblood skort (on trend, festive and elongates the legs... yes please!) and a black sheer blouse, both of which can be found below, while Mel chose a black strap back Cami, similar below.
Skort: http://www.topshop.com/mulberry-luxe-satin-wrap-skort
Blouse: http://www.riverisland.com/Black-long-sleeve-wrap-shirt
Dress: http://www.asos.com/Glamorous/Glamorous-Cami-Dress
We jumped in a cab with Christmas music to sing along too, and headed off for the evening.
We toasted the year with a perfectly chilled and very reasonably priced Pinot Grigio and recalled our favourite memories from the last 12 months while browsing the menu. And what a year it has been. I'm dreading doing my goodbye 2013 post, there are far too many memories to choose from.
In perfect timing the waiter arrived to take our order, I chose the poached hens egg to start, and then mussels (surprise surprise), Jack opted for the steak, Pippa the seabass, and Mel ordered chicken.
The starter was simple and well presented, with runny yolk, hollandaise and dauphinoise potatoes, and left me feeling content and eager for the main course to arrive... and we were not to be disappointed.
We all received generous portions, presented traditionally and with care. The mussels were especially flavoursome and served in the most delicous sauce I have ever tasted, a bold statement for a seafood lover. I soaked up every last mouthful with the sourdough bread accompany the dish. The others were equally satisfied with their mains and I cannot compliment the food enough. Bodos is centrally known as a cocktail and late night party venue, but the food is entirely recommendable.
We were all feeling pretty full, but when an apple strudel complete with sparkler arrived (We were celebrating after all), we were all very happy to tuck in.
We ordered ourselves a cocktail from the vast choice on the menu, Jacks arrived in a St Bernard glass (the aptly named St Bernard cocktail) while I selected a champagne and belvedere Corbet's Couloir. And we headed off to party into the night.
A blurred but very true shot of Jack and I
Someone was having a good time!
At around 10pm the bar quickly fills up with partygoers and the tables are swiftly cleared away. It's much more of a party venue on the weekend, and I look forward to returning soon to experience it.
It was the perfect festive venue, but if you're looking to be transported out of Kensington and into the Alps anytime of the year, its an absolute must. Drinks are well priced for this type of venue, and a good time is absolutely guaranteed.
