Marcus’

Hamilton Princess and Beach Club, Pitts Bay Road, Hamilton

There have been plenty of great things to do this winter — ice skating and carnival activities for the masqueraders of Bermuda Heroes’ Weekend top my list.

Now foodies can enjoy the return of Restaurant Weeks.

The three-week event draws bargain-hunting diners to revisit old favourites serving relatively cheap eats. I’m not much of a foodie, but I do enjoy a great meal and when Marcus’ invites you to sample their fare, it’s a real challenge to say no.

On arrival, I was graciously greeted with a fine glass of cabernet by the Hamilton Princess restaurant’s food and beverage sales manager, Jasmine Quinn.

I was then whisked over to one of the chef’s tables, nicely nestled between the chef’s counter and the bar.

This is the first year Marcus’ has taken part in Restaurant Weeks. I was excited to see and, more importantly, taste their take on low-cost dining.

My first course was roasted beets and pickled mushrooms served over goat cheese and apple. It gifted my taste buds with a light mix — a salty, sweet and savoury flavour. The beets were locally sourced, which always makes for great flavour.

For my main, I chose the island jerk chicken served with hoppin’ john — their take on peas and rice. Also served alongside it, crispy plantains and a carrot-curry vinaigrette.

Being the picky eater I am, I struggled to choose between the banana split and the rum cake for dessert. The banana split was a banana brûlée severed with caramel corn and house-made ice cream — to me the best type. The rum cake was served with a salted caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream.

Much to my delight, I was treated to both. My eyes brightened as each dessert was set in front of me.

Just as difficult as choosing between the two, was eating them. My spoon was dabbling from one plate to the other between each tasty bite.

The food was simply excellent and a wonderful display of home-grown ingredients.

• Restaurant Weeks continues until February 3. For more details visit foodies.bm.