Woman Vs Food at Cotton's Rhum Shack, Box Park (London)

I am no ‘Skinny Minny’ and I love Caribbean food, but this time in my very own version of ‘woman vs food’…food most definitely won. Do you have a healthy appetite, like good music, fancy a party vibe and some tasty food?…I defy you not to LOVE Cotton’s Rhum Shack. This place had me planning a return visit before I had even left my seat…

Quality:

Cotton’s Rhum Shack recently took up residency at Box Park, Shoreditch bringing not only 250 types of rum, but great vibes, jerk chicken and the tastiest fish curry I have ever had. My first cocktail was chosen by the Manager (he chose well): lychee, coconut and rum #dead. But this was just a hint of what was instore. A crab starter with a crispy outer casing and spicy sauce was then delivered to my table – to the sound of soul and reggae! Was this really Shoreditch? I ate my way through (like a trooper) and felt pretty chuffed with myself… until my main arrived. Fish curry, fried dumplings in plum sauce, callaloo (a spinach like vegetable), chicken wings with lamb, bread fruit chips, dip and more cocktails. Yes, there were two of us, no we could not eat it all. Everything had the most amazing flavour and if it wasn’t for the fact that I was slightly worst for wear, due to a very long work day, I would have stayed and asked for recipes from the chef (for my future husband of course, see: Can’t Cook Won’t Cook). The cocktails and all the delcious food were just too much for me.

*Cotton’s Rhum Shack beware, as I will not remain defeated. I will return with empty stomach in tow – this I promise.

Accessibility:

Situated at the top of a steep flight of (often very busy) stairs, Cotton’s at Box Park is not what I would call ‘easy access’. However, for those with mobility problems there is a disabled access lift. Once on the top floor, there are a range of eateries. Beware! The crowds can be overwhelming, however once you fight your way through the din, Cotton’s has a large space which includes both a restaurant and a bar area. On a sunny day, this place is a Caribbean experience in so many ways (apart from the fact that you are actually in East London!). The music, large-screen TV, DJ’s and outdoor/indoor seating give the place a holiday/resort feel and make it a great one to visit on a night out with pals, or for after-work drinks.

…The prices aren’t bad either, at around £35 for two people (without alcohol) you will have a fun night out without breaking the bank.