I think I’ve found my favourite new brasserie – it’s just a shame it’s not right here in London! We recently took ourselves off to the countryside for a two night escape at Lucknam Park Hotel and who knew we’d enjoy this gorgeous brasserie as much as we did. The hotel is of course absolutely stunning (more on that soon), but it’s brasserie is special in its own right which is why I love it so much. Located in the same building as the spa (think epic spa days and outdoor heated infinity pool) and so whether you’re staying here or not, you can really make the most of this restaurant and spa combined.
Did I mention it’s rather beautiful too? Modern, bright and views looking out over the grounds. I can’t wait to come back in Summer as the restaurant spills onto the terrace. Looked after by Head Chef, Thomas Westerland, the brasserie uses seasonal produce, sourced from local suppliers wherever possible, and ingredients straight from the kitchen garden. You can enjoy morning coffee and pastries, lunch or dinner here – we came for the latter but snacked and sipped on wine during the day between spa relaxing.
We kicked off our evening with a couple of cocktails in the bar area, my choice was the classic Negroni. My favourite cocktail in the world and they crafted it perfectly. Lots of bite and a generously topped up glass. They do special seasonal cocktails too, one to try next time.
The menu is a mix of dishes from across the globe, but the focus is mostly British. We started with a lovely fresh plate of locally smoked Loch Duart salmon with a light citrus salad. Simple, but satisfying. Better still was the crispy baby calamari with ginger, coriander and sweet chilli. They got that batter so crisp and well seasoned that I imagine anything it coated would be delicious and the fresh slices of ginger and touch of heat made for a lovely start to our meal.
For mains, my dining companion tucked into the Welsh lamb shepherd’s pie, with braised peas with lettuce. Sadly I was only allowed one bite, but I wish I’d ordered it myself. A thick layer of creamy, buttery mash concealing a deep flavoured lamb in a gravy so good that you’ll be sipping on it afterwards. The peas and lettuce were nice too, smothered in a nice buttery glaze.
Star main course was this roast Cornish hake with capers, brown shrimps, lemon and parsley. An absolute bargain under £20 given the quality and the execution of it. Juicy white flesh, perfectly crisp skin and that topping of brown shrimps, dripping in lemon butter and parsley meant for a rather salivating few mouthfuls. Another dish I’d highly recommend ordering if you visit.
We also ordered a side of the buttered new potatoes (because you can never have enough potato and butter) which was simple, but packed with flavour. There really is nothing better than a good quality potato which reminds me, we’re almost upon the Jersey Royal season which I can’t wait for.
To finish, a rich and decadent dark chocolate cremeux with poached pear, walnut streusel and milk sorbet. Silky smooth, oh-so chocolatey and the perfect dessert to send me into a food coma for a cosy nights sleep ahead.
We had such a lovely and enjoyable meal here in The Brasserie and when I finally return back to this incredible hotel, this will most certainly be my first stop. There is another even more beautiful restaurant at this hotel, but something about this place is perfect for settling you in if your staying more than one night. It’s relaxed, attached to a spa you’ll never want to leave and the food is comforting. The recipe for my new favourite brasserie.
I love seafood! I would order all those dishes!