Because I'm sick to death of Nando's...

Am I allowed to say that? Is it some kind of food blasphemy? Anyway...

I love Nando's as much as the next girl. Its cheap, cheerful and actually has flavour. It kept me happy while I was at University and missing my mum's chicken, red beans and rice. There was a point in my life when I ended up in a Nando's once every two weeks. HOWEVER, as soon as new Nando's restaurants began springing up literally everywhere it began to lose its appeal to me. It became too normal; seeing one on every corner made it seem more like McDonald's than a treat. Also, I guess it didn't help that I ordered the same thing every time (Half chicken, coleslaw and chips).

So I decided to do something about it, and I've now decided to only visit less well known chains or independent restaurants. There are too many exciting thing to eat in London to keep repeating meals at the same place. 

Here are some of my latest discoveries/old favourites.

All Star Lanes

Today David introduced Mitra and I to All Star Lanes in Brick Lane which happens to be half restaurant half bowling alley. I was a bit sceptical at first and assumed that the menu would consist of items such as burger, hot dogs and onion rings. But it wasn't and you can check it out HERE. Some of the items on the menu that really tempted me were the: 'Seattle Fishcakes', 'Basket of Fried Buttermilk Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries' and the 'Rum and Raisin Alcoholic Milkshake'. YUMMY.

After deep thought I decided to get the 'Basket of Fried Buttermilk Chicken with Sweet Potato Fries' and a 'Mocha Milkshake since I'm a sucker for coffee. And let me tell you...it was bloody amazing.

We were speechless eating this. It was like heaven in my mouth...no exaggeration. It came up to £14.50 all together. It may be a little expensive but they give you loads and you probably won't even finish it. Plus your taste buds will most definitely be thanking you for treating them.

Next up is...your local Turkish Restaurant.

I have a not so secret obsession with Turkish food. At every chance I can get I try to visit my one of my favourite places in the world: CRYSTAL in Wood Green. As soon as you enter the staff are welcoming, you're seated, given a menu (where you can choose from Lahmacun, authentic kebabs, Turkish salads and so much more). If your table spends more than £10 then you are also treated to free Turkish bread with dips and Turkish tea and Baklava after you're through with your main meal. To say I love it is an understatement! The flavours are amazing and the prices are amazing to match. I never ever spend more than £10 in there and someone always has to roll me out because I've eaten so much. If you've never been to a Turkish restaurant before than just pick a local one, make sure its busy, ask them what's good to eat and tuck in! 

Bodean's

To be honest...all I can really say is that if you love your meat, you need to live here. Expect a plate packed full of 3 types of ribs, pulled pork, BBQ chicken, fries, coleslaw and a lot more. It's authentically smoky and delicious and basically I'm salivating just writing about it *wipes keyboard clean* LOL

Image taken from tomaskhanell.wordpress.com

MEAT. YUM.

I hope you've had as much fun reading as I have had writing this :)

Feel free to comment below with recommendations of some of your faves!