In the middle of the village of Houghton Conquest, directly opposite the Grade I listed church, is the Knife and Cleaver, part of a family of classic British pubs brought to you from Epic Pubs.
Originally a 17th century country inn, The Knife and Cleaver offers a relaxed environment reflecting the best in British design. Décor is rustic, with a modern twist, making it, aesthetically speaking, a real hit, throw in the warm and friendly atmosphere and if the food is as good as first impressions then we’re in for a real treat!
With an extensive drinks menu, it’s easy to enjoy your favourite tipple, including wines, gins, cocktails, mocktails and beers. Not that I’m predictable but those that know me know I am a bubble girl so of course what else would I choose? So with a glass of prosecco in hand we were shown to our table to decide what delights we wanted to choose off the menu.
As we have all come to expect when eating out, the food menu revolves around fresh, seasonal and sustainable produce, and this was certainly evident in the dishes on display on the menu.
An appetizer of fresh warm bread and olives accompanied our drinks whilst we waited for our starters to arrive.
Pheasant and bacon salad on a bed of chicory, walnuts and slices of pear drizzled with a balsamic vinaigrette – the cool chicory and crispy pear complimented the gamey flavours of the pheasant perfectly. A duck and cranberry terrine with spiced orange chutney and toasted sourdough, was a perfect contrast of flavours and textures,
Roast pork tenderloin and braised cheeks, served with a white bean and bacon cassoulet followed, whetting the palette with an array of flavours, whilst showcasing the sourced quality of the meat. And the sea bass from the specials menu was so fresh it fell from the bone.
The colours and presentation of the dishes were just as delightful and appealing to the eyes as the taste was to the palette.
Dessert was a mulled pear trifle, with flavours that worked in harmony with each other and a Braeburn apple and golden sultana crumble, which was just as superb as the rest of the evening’s dishes.
Everything at the Knife and Cleaver is charming and indulgent, from the staff to the rustic soft furnishings, there’s even rooms, if you want to extend your dining experience to an overnight stay. Whatever you decide if our experience is anything to go by you’ll come away feeling well and truly spoilt.
The Knife & Cleaver
The Grove, Houghton Conquest
01234 930789
