Summer is over, so it seems. I’m really trying not to be ungrateful as we did have some very lovely days in June and July (I think), but as we tumbled into August (and we really did, as I write this, there are only a couple of weeks left before the little rugrats go back to school and my M25 journey is hellish once again) the weather really did start to go downhill. I can remember a couple of days this month when we had some really torrential rain. Certainly not what I’d expect to see in the “height of summer”. I really do feel sorry for brides and grooms (mostly brides as I don’t think grooms care so much) that got caught up in it.
So as summer is over, it’s time to start thinking about Christmas. In the marketing world, this is something we start thinking about MUCH, MUCH earlier than you lucky souls that don’t have to really do anything until after Halloween. At Tesco, we have a team dedicated to Christmas all year round – someone’s job title is actually “Head of Christmas”. Oh, you think I’m joking? July is the month in which a barrage of invites go out for events dubbed “Christmas in July” and Carluccio’s was no exception when I received my red and gold lettered invite on my doorstep. It had been two years since I’d attended so I was looking forward to seeing what Carluccio’s would have available to delight their customers this Christmas.
One might wonder why a restaurant such as Carluccio’s would have such an event. They’re “just” a restaurant. Not true. Yes, they are a restaurant. A chain – yes. Although a far cry from most chains you might think of. They aren’t dotted all over the land like other “Italian” restaurants. Their fare is far more exquisite than most. I love Italian food. It is my favourite – and I’m particularly fond of Antonio Carluccio. Carluccio’s also have a delicatessen element of their business. Chocolate, pasta, and other delights perfect for gifting. Much of which, I was very fortunate to sample when I visited.
Edit 6th November 2017
Summer really is well and truly over now – given that last weekend the clocks went back (fall back, spring forward – always have to remind myself. A little bit like Never Eat Shredded Wheat – North, South, East West – which is ludicrous, as Shredded Wheat is delish). Anyway. I digress. I’ve been a bit slow to pull my finger out since starting this blog post 3 months ago. Not only is summer over, but Halloween and Bonfire night is too – which means the Christmas fanfare can begin, I believe the rollout of Christmas TV ads started last night during X Factor.
These pics from Carluccio’s Christmas in July event is more relevant now – and the best thing is that the products are now online and in their restaurants to sample and buy.
Tomato Gazpacho – palate refresher
My fave dish of the day – Garlic Crusted Lamb Cutlets (and my New Balance…)
Delicious Prawns in Shell
Baci Di Dama – these chocolate filled hazelnut biscuits were so moreish. Just looking at them now I can remember how good they tasted…
The pièce de résistance was definitely the Limoncello Chocolate Cups. Of course my favourite item would be something that contains alcohol! Many friends and family will be receiving this gift from me this Christmas!
Limoncello e Bicchierini
Foodie Claire 
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