A high end restaurant has perfectly nailed the art of cooking a succulent and flavourful turkey
Turkey at Browns put the writer in the mood for Christmas(Image: Michael D. Carroll)
For 25 years, I’ve been the designated Christmas dinner chef for my family, constantly refining and perfecting my turkey-cooking techniques in a relentless quest for the juiciest, most flavorful bird.
But my culinary prowess was put to the test when I experienced an extraordinary holiday feast at Brown’s in Birmingham, UK’s St Martin’s Square.
From overnight marinating to cooking the bird upside down and allowing ample resting time, I’ve employed every trick in the book – along with a few secret weapons – to ensure my Christmas turkeys are always a hit. However, this city center restaurant, tucked away in the shadow of the iconic Bull Ring, gave me a run for my money.
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A festive spread complete with all the fixings and a turkey so tender it practically melted, reports the Express.
The salmon was full of flavour(Image: Michael D. Carroll)
My Christmas dinner came fully loaded with all the traditional accompaniments: cranberry stuffing, crispy pigs in blankets, garlic and thyme roast potatoes, mulled wine red cabbage, and shredded sprouts.
Topped off with generous slices of turkey, the moment of truth came as I let my fork sink in.
To my amazement, the meat fell apart at the slightest touch, leaving me utterly satisfied.
The cheerful atmosphere, enhanced by tasteful decor, a stunning view of the impressive Christmas tree outside, and holiday tunes played on a grand piano by daring guests, only added to my enjoyment.
A $45 three-course extravaganza with a boozy finish and first-rate service.
I started my $45 three-course meal with a flavorful and satisfying oak-smoked salmon appetizer, followed by the show-stopping turkey main course. I was tempted by the braised blade of beef, but I’m glad I stuck with tradition.
For dessert, I indulged in a moist and boozy Christmas pudding with vanilla bean custard and brandy butter.
Head waitress Justina, a 20-year hospitality veteran who has worked at world-class establishments like The Ivy, provided exceptional service.
She shared that Brown’s secret is simple: they treat their staff like family and support their passions outside the restaurant doors. For Justina, that means dedicating herself to archery.
Bullseye service and a festive meal that embodies the Christmas spirit.
I let Justina know she had hit the bullseye with her service and asked her to pass on my compliments to the chef. With its careful execution of dishes and caring attitude towards staff, a Christmas meal at Brown’s truly captures the essence of the season.
After 25 years of striving for turkey perfection, I’m not quite ready to hang up my apron and let the professionals at Brown’s take over.
But I’m tempted. Their tender, succulent meat and spot-on festive atmosphere have won me over, proving that sometimes the best Christmas dinners are the ones you don’t have to cook yourself.
Dining and Cooking