Review: Newham College students cook Valentine’s Day meal for Forest Gate couple

Lee-Ann Richards
Monday, February 18, 2013
10:49 AM

The Recorder played cupid on Thursday by sending Forest Gate couple Lee-Ann Richards and Franklin Adesuyan for a meal at Fusion Restaurant, run by the catering and hospitality students at Newham College.

Professional cookery student Sai Aung gives the final touch to one of the main courses for the Valentine's menu at the Newham College restaurant. Picture: Isabel Infantes

Lee-Ann reviews the experience.

“Love is in the air, which can only mean one thing - Valentine’s Day.

“Luckily this year, I didn’t have to go too far to find a fine dine experience right on my doorstep and most importantly within my budget.

Some of the main courses prepared by the professional cookery students for the Valentine's menu at the Newham College restaurant.Picture Isabel Infantes

“The answer was Newham College’s great value packed Valentine’s Day menu.

“By day it is just an ordinary college canteen, but by night every Thursday it transforms into Fusion Dining Room.

“The night started off with a medley of canapés. These included goat’s cheesecake with red onion jam, veloute of pea and coconut foam and avocado paprika shortbread.

“The starters of salmon fish cakes with rocket, capers and lime dressing didn’t disappoint and set the tone for the rest of the evening.

“For main, I was treated to grilled lamb cutlet and braised lamb, fondant potato, griddled fennel and lamb jus.

“But the highlight of the evening was the dessert which was apple and passion fruit tart served with a light chocolate truffle.

“The food on the whole was well presented, with subtle flavours that can please even the fussiest taste buds.

“The only criticism that could be found is that portions were small and there was no alcohol served.

“We were looked after on the night by Sally Shaw, who I was surprised to find out had only been doing the course for six weeks.

“She helped to create a cosy, relaxing atmosphere.

“The students and management staff have done well to provide this unique environment. Overall the food was simple, but was well presented and tasty. If you want something which is a budget meal, good food, then I would definitely recommend Fusion Dining Room.

“The restaurant is open every Thursday at the East Ham Campus on High Street South. One meal costs £8 per person or £16 for a table of two.”