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pic: Claudette Jarvis |
With a devotion to music and a commitment to late-night partying, Moog – situated just off Alfreton Road in Canning Circus – has always been revered by those in the know as one of our little secrets. Secrets aren’t made to be kept, though, and Moog’s reputation is about to be bolstered with the addition of a new menu and a burgeoning reputation for premier pub food. Dave Kenny, aficionado of cocktails, quality beers, rare spirits and anything else booze-related, has teamed up with his partner Elisa, who’s literally brought her Spanish and Israeli heritage to the table. Ranging from light salads and dips to homemade burgers and koftas, we ummed and ahhed over what on earth to choose from the plentiful menu.
We both agreed that the star of the show was the smokey baba ganoush dip (served with two other dips and bread of the day for £3). The flavour was well-rounded but with an intense smokiness – who knew you could make an aubergine taste so good? Another favourite was the vegetarian chargrilled sweet potato latkas (£2), akin to Scotch pancakes in texture, but fragrant and packed full of spices. A sure-fire veggie main option was the olive slice (£5.50); flaky pastry stuffed with olives, cheese and (as with the majority of the menu) brimming with fresh herbs, spices and flavours.
The coleslaw deserves a mention too. Remember that ubiquitous, gloopy slop that leaves a taste of raw onion in your mouth for days? Not this ‘slaw – fresh and light with citrus flavours and mint running throughout, Moog has given it a Mediterranean makeover, making it a fantastic palate-cleanser to return to between dishes. Having confirmed that the ‘Johnny’ in Johnny’s Meat Platter (£7.50) is the legendary Johnny Pusztai at J.T Beedham – the award-winning butcher on Mansfield Road – my decision was made. A well balanced selection of cured meats including one of my favourites; bresoaola, a thinly-sliced, aged beef that melts in the mouth.
Sourcing ingredients locally and seasonally is something Moog are passionate about, and it’s reflected in the consistent quality and freshness of the food. There are daily specials and the bread is baked fresh by the chef, Beth Marriott, who also runs a Pop-Up Restaurant – a concept where you sporadically convert your home into a restaurant. Dining is available from 11am until 7pm Monday to Friday and noon until 7pm on Saturday, bookings are required after 7pm. Keep an eye out for their Summer BBQs, too.
Newdigate Street, Nottingham NG7 2ED
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