insideSUSSEX Magazine Issue 01 - March 2015 | Page 31
FOOD+DRINK
Our mains swiftly followed, which included
a heaving board of ‘Chop and Chips’ – one
of the largest and most flavoursome steaks I
have ever had the pleasure of attempting to
devour. The tender chunks of mottled beef sat
perched in a huge mound surrounded by a
rocket and beetroot salad with the perfect fresh
crunch of red onion and a cheeky rich spiced
brown ketchup pot – perfect for dunking one
of the fluffy and crisp triple cooked chips that
overflowed from their cast iron dish.
My guest chose ‘Monkfish’, which provided
another taste wonder – a delicate plain fish dish
this was not. The curry-based aromas were
evident from the moment the dish arrived and
the anise-based spiced chicken, puy lentils and
cauliflower accompaniments cleverly combined
to enhance the dish ensuring that the delicate
monkfish was never overpowered.
A short respite ensured we could create enough
room for dessert, and soon enough we were
presented with our ‘Walnut Whip’ and ‘Popcorn’
puddings. The rich and decadent hot chocolate
fondant of the Walnut Whip was divine with
sticky crushed walnuts and a soft subtle mallow
ice cream, whilst the various elements of the
Popcorn ensured that every mouthful was a
taste sensation. Cool smooth rice cake, rich
sweet banana, refreshing sorbet and of course
lashings of salted caramel and crunchy sticky
popcorn brought our dining experience to a
sweet end.
And a great all round experience it was too. Yes,
the food is amazing, but so too was the whole
dining experience. It should be recognised that
a restaurant that can hold 64 covers usually only
has 55 – you will never be encouraged to rush.
Part of the pleasure here is enjoying the stylish
and exciting food at a pace that suits, and in an
environment that makes you feel at home.
It was therefore no surprise that just days after
our visit, Mark and Sara and the team at The
Curlew, were deservedly named as the county’s
Best Eating Experience in the Sussex Food
and Drink Awards 2015 (an accolade they have
reassuringly and not unsurprising received
before). Add to this their recent notable mention
as one of The Guardian Travel’s 10 Destination
Restaurants, it is clear to see that The Curlew is
both going places, and here to stay.
The Curlew Restaurant
Junction Road
Bodiam
East Sussex
TN32 5UY
01580 861394
[email protected]
@
www.thecurlewrestaurant.co.uk
@
@thecurlewbodiam
/thecurlewbodiam
31