As the festive season approaches, many Brits are searching for convenient Christmas dining solutions that don't break the bank. Black Sheep Coffee's £35 meal deal for two promises a complete festive feast, but does it deliver on quality and taste? We put it to the ultimate test.
The Festive Promise vs Reality
Black Sheep Coffee, known primarily for its specialty brews, has ventured into the competitive Christmas meal market with an ambitious offering. For £35, customers receive:
- Two main courses
- Two side dishes
- Two desserts
- Two hot drinks
- Two mini proseccos
On paper, it sounds like remarkable value. But as our experience revealed, the execution leaves much to be desired.
Main Event: Turkey Troubles
The centrepiece of any Christmas meal should be the turkey, but Black Sheep's version fell dramatically short. The sliced turkey breast arrived disappointingly dry and lacked the succulent, moist texture that defines a perfect festive bird. While the flavour was acceptable, the texture issues made it difficult to enjoy what should have been the star of the show.
Supporting Cast: Hits and Misses
The roast potatoes provided a welcome highlight - crispy on the outside and fluffy within, they demonstrated how simple classics should be done. However, the pigs in blankets divided opinion, with some finding them overly salty while others appreciated their robust flavour.
Stuffing balls maintained adequate moisture but lacked the herby complexity that elevates this traditional side. The gravy, while plentiful, leaned toward the watery side, missing the rich, meaty depth that binds a Christmas plate together.
Sweet Disappointments
Where the deal truly stumbled was in the dessert department. The Christmas pudding and chocolate yule log both suffered from being pre-packaged and mass-produced. The lack of freshness was immediately apparent, with textures that felt artificial and flavours that failed to evoke any festive cheer.
The Verdict: Value vs Quality
While £35 for a complete meal for two represents undeniable value in today's economic climate, the compromise on quality is significant. The convenience factor cannot be ignored for time-poor families, but those seeking an authentic Christmas dining experience will likely feel short-changed.
Who Should Consider This Deal?
- Students or young professionals on a tight budget
- Those needing a quick, no-fuss Christmas meal solution
- Customers primarily interested in the coffee and prosecco elements
Final Thoughts
Black Sheep Coffee's Christmas meal deal sits in an awkward middle ground - it's neither cheap enough to excuse its shortcomings nor good enough to recommend wholeheartedly. For those determined to try it, managing expectations is crucial. This is functional festive dining rather than a culinary celebration.
As one reviewer concluded: "You get what you pay for - and in this case, that's an average meal at a reasonable price." The search for the perfect affordable Christmas dinner continues.
