Mel visits newly opened Cornichon

Mel got lucky and scored the hottest table in town! In this case the town in question (Tarvin) isn't very big but it doesnt mean the table isnt hot - with folks from miles around talking about the new Gunnery.

The venue has undergone a transformation that to me seemed unrecognisable, bringing all the stunning features of the Gunnary to life. It felt vibrant, modern and yet so rich in character and true to the original use of the building. In the early 19th century it was a grocery shop and apothecary - picture brass rails, tiled walls and darkened mirrors.



Onto the food - we had to start with some Cornichons, the small pickled gherkins. Didn't get a chance to ask why the restaurant is now called that though....



Anyway the Lamb ribs, apparently sheep have ribs too, were finger lickin good with the rub kicking off the flavour nicey. Other choices around the table included a stunning looking Salmon and the Crispy whitebait with a delicious garlic mayo and Nori - an edible seaweed (yes, we googled it!).

Then onto the Pork Belly. Great combination of the crispy and the soft. The pear complimenting it perfectly, served on a bed of Savoy cabbage and topped with delicate Parsnip shavings. Its a great dish put together with much thought and attention to the detail.



The lamb rump seemed to hit similar chords - clearly an accomplished team were working hard in the cellar kitchen.



In my humble view this chocolate fondant is how every meal should end! Perfect in form, a little brush of the spoon and the soft sponge succumbs to release the gooey chocolate centre. By Jove that was good!! As was the whole meal.

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Posted: Monday 19th October 2015
ID: 7833 - 1405