As is usual with life, it's either all or nothing socially and I was wondering how, or indeed if, I could squeeze in a visit to the Street Spice festival. It's been well publicised and had the very worthy aim of raising money for a brain tumour charity. In the end the only time I could manage was a quick visit on Saturday early evening after work. I'm glad I went.
Parking in Westgate Road was easy and I cut through by the Settle Down cafe (qv) and was soon at the Centre for Life. (I had also managed a quick raid on M&S, and was pleasantly surprised to see how busy the town was. I'd popped in on Tuesday evening to find it very empty. And so, sparing kind words of direction for lost North American tourists, I was on my way to Street Spice.) The marquee was bustling and there was a discreet and reassuring security presence. It was a little crowded what with buggies and all, but I managed to fight my way round and see the fine array of fare on offer. But what to choose? Play safe with a vegetable samosa? Coffee and cake? Buy chilli sauce for home use? Jamican rum dumplings! Could I then drive home? Eventually I settled, for Vietnamese potato cakes courtesy of Electric East. The lady serving was dressed to indoctrinate but probably not kill and the food was beautifully served in a little cardboard dish. I took advice and added the sweet salsa and the yogurt dressing and stood in a corner and ate.
This was my introduction to Vietnamese food and I liked it. I liked the tangy and tingly sensation on my lips and tongue, without the food being ;'hot' in a spicy way. I could have carried on experiencing new food sensations had time and money permitted, but sadly I had to make that do. Will the festival happen again? I hope so, and judging by the crowds it would be a popular event. Next time I will allow much more time and go along with a fat wallet and a thin waistline and watch them change places!
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