- Modern British cooking that avoids gimmicks
- Carefully sourced local ingredients
- Thoughtful wine list
- special food themed promotions
- Feels like a hotel restaurant
- Bread arrived at table too hot
- Address: Fishmore Hall, Fishmore Road, Ludlow, Shropshire SY8 3DP
- Telephone: +44 (0)1584 875 148
- Website:www.fishmorehall.co.uk
- Price range: Fair for its class at the high end of moderate.
Local Ingredients and Polished Service
I love a short restaurant menu. It gives me confidence. In the restaurant at Fishmore Hall, head chef David Jaram has found a way to offer a short menu and a good choice. Mindful that some guests may be staying two or three nights, he has added a short market menu - that changes daily - to the à la carte menu. And if you decide you want everything, go for the six-course tasting menu.The 3-course à la carte menu (plus canapés and amuse bouche) is reasonably priced for its class (£46.50 in March 2009). Local produce is used as much as possible, so you might choose roast wood pigeon, followed by John Dory and then a selection of artisan cheeses. Whatever you choose, the presentation is innovative without being showy. Ingredients get to keep their star billing; flavors stay fresh and distinct.
Country hotel dining rooms aren't always my favorite places to eat. I like the buzz- and competition - of the city. But Fishmore Hall keeps on its toes. Much thought has gone into the choice of linens and tableware. Even the design of the water jug was a little bit special. Service is polished but also friendly.
I can't remember when I was last offered a choice of salted or unsalted butter at table, but it's nice to have the option. The wine list, which leans heavily towards France, has 15 wines by the glass and an equally large choice of half bottles. I like that. It's your meal; drink how and what you like.
