In this installment of Eileen Writes, chef Eileen Wright visits Liverpool, home of the Beatles…

As I stepped inside the bus disguised as a yellow submarine I could hear a song playing overhead:

The long and winding road
That leads to your door
Will never disappear
I’ve seen that road before
It always leads me here
Lead me to your door.

Chef Eileen Wright

The Magical Mystery Tour in Liverpool, England voyaged up and down the cobblestone streets to very familiar spots: Strawberry Fields, Penny Lane, Sefton Park, The Cavern Club, John Lennon’s childhood home, Paul McCartney’s childhood home.  I must admit, I was never a big fan (most likely because that was all I heard from my brothers and I was sick of The Beatles) but I found the tour quite interesting, especially when I would see a site that inspired the Beatles to write the songs.  I actually had my hopes up; word spread that every now and then Paul McCartney could be sighted at one of the stops; I guess he had something better to do today L.

There is quite a history to Liverpool aside from The Beatles. Liverpool was so well placed on the Mersey it became a major trade city with the West Indies followed by Holland, Germany,Norway, Hamburg and Baltic in the 1800’s.   From trade came a need to build ships, produce rope, manufacturing, pottery and watch making.  The dockside is an amazing site which still holds the same character that it did so many years ago.

Well of course with all the walking around one’s hunger intensifies.  I had prepared for such a moment and researched the top restaurants in Liverpool.  I came upon an Italian restaurant which was titled, “one of the top ten authentic Italian restaurants in the UK”.  Antonio Carlucci, writer and TV talent in England wrote, “Il Forno is a slice of Italy situated in the heart of Liverpool city centre”. Say no more, I’m there.  First course: Focaccia Pomodoro and Trio di Bruschetta (tomato, mozzarella and prosciutto, artichoke and parmesan cheese). Second course: Mixed greens with Balsamic Vinaigrette. Lastly: Homemade Ravioli (stuffed with sun dried tomatoes and goat cheese topped with a butter, sage sauce).  I knew I couldn’t indulge in a real authentic meal without a glass of Italian wine – “Ursonia” Montepulciano d’ Abruzzo  please

Sometimes I wonder how restaurants get such great accolades! The whole meal was a major disappointment.  Every course was bland and monotone, no texture or complexity.  I didn’t even attempt to have a dessert even though I loved the amazing presentations the passed by my table as I ate; all good though, I enjoy experimenting!!!