We've been to this restaurant before and really enjoyed it - we weren't let down this time!! As you walk into the building you wouldn't be judged for thinking it was someones front room, the only thing it lacks is a few sofas and a TV! And in fact, if you were to drive past the building itself you might think it was just another home in the long line of terraced houses it finishes - but this only adds to the charm.
As you walk in you are greeted by the lovely owner Angie, who promptly shakes your hand and leads you to your table with a warm smile. The service from here on in is impeccable - all smiles and politeness right until she leads you out of the door. We discussed our wine choices (which, by the way, were amazing - I recommend the Penfolds Chardonnay!) with her in the way you would a friend and we were congratulated for our food choices - she clearly takes pride in the food her chef produces, and indulges herself in his creations!
Now on to the food! They change their menu monthly so they can work with the best and freshest produce around at the time, and this shines through in the quality of the dishes they prepare. A lot of what is on the menu is grown by the restaurant itself - and the meat you get was probably shot by the owner that week! To start Karl ordered a scallop salad with mushrooms and smoked salmon. Of course I tried some (for the good of blog you understand!) and it was absolutely divine. I'm not a huge fan of scallops, but these were deliciously sweet and melted in my mouth. I ordered my beloved pate which came with a beautiful chutney and warm toast. All I can say is I didn't talk too much as I devoured it!
Strangely for us, we both settled on the same main - venison. I had never had venison before, but I can assure you that after this meal, I will again....and again and again. It was so tender and perfectly cooked - much better than any steak I had ever had (and a good steak is my favourite!). The sauce it came with was absolutely delicious, with the tiniest little onions you've ever seen and perfectly cooked mushrooms. I must admit I was worried when it was brought to the table - I'm a big eater and it only came with the two steaks and the sauce! But it was promptly followed by a selection of brilliantly cooked vegetables and some of the crispiest roast potatoes I've ever had. For pudding I ordered the almond tart and custard. It was much "cakier" than I anticipated, but was still incredibly lovely. Still warm and sprinkled with my favourite of all the spices - cinnamon - it didn't last long! The only thing I will say against it is that once I had finished I was too full to steal anything from Karls cheese board!
You do pay for what you get - food of this standard and service this good doesn't come cheaply! But for a top class 3 course meal, 2 bottles of wine and impeccable service we paid £94 - not bad at all if you ask me!
All in all this was one of the best meals I've ever had. It was our second visit and I can tell you with 100% certainty that we will be booking a table there for next month as soon as possible!
I give the meal and the whole experience a 10 out of 10. If you are ever in West Cumbria and looking for a taste of the area, I strongly recommend the Blacksmiths Restaurant!
http://www.blacksmiths-restaurant.co.uk/
TTFN and all that jazz
Kim
xx
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