Littleton Arms, Penkridge
We'd only popped in for a swift pint and a glass of wine, but the promise of dishes such as mushroom, asparagus and red onion pancakes meant a longer pit-stop was required, writes Rachael Harrison.
We'd only popped into the Litttleton Arms for a swift pint and a glass of wine, but the promise of dishes such as mushroom, asparagus and red onion pancakes (£8.45) and 10oz ribeye steak with dolce latte (£14.50) meant that a longer pit-stop was required, writes
.
The impressive building which dates to around 1700 has recently been spruced up inside and out. With its stripped wooden boards, stylish paintwork and wood-burner, it looks like a smart gastro pub.
Guests can enjoy a tipple in the bar area or opt for a meal in the cosy restaurant. Service was a bit hit and miss around Christmas so I braced myself for a good moan, but I was impressed.
The restaurant was packed but the staff remained calm and friendly and, after slotting us in without a booking, the food arrived in good time.
The evening menu has plenty of choice with starters ranging from the obligatory home made soup of the day (£3.35) and black pudding and bacon crostini (£4.25), to mushroom al forno (£4.95) and tear and share breads with dipping sauces (6.95).
As each line of the menu revealed a new dish my choice kept changing, but I finally chose the dolce latte and walnut mousse (£4.50). My other half had pork and duck liver pate (£4.50). Both dishes came in good time and were well-presented.
The flavours of my starter were superb - the dolcelatte smooth but not too rich and the tasty cranberry dip a perfect complement. A generous serving of smooth pate contrasted well with thick slices of rustic wholemeal toast and port and orange sauce.
For a main course I went for goats cheese and pesto penne (£8.25), while my boyfriend chose Gressingham duck (£12.95) from the grill section.
My huge bowl of pasta, which was loaded with creamy cheese and plump sun-dried tomatoes, was a struggle to finish. The pasta had just enough bite and the garlic herb bread was crispy and not swimming with oil.
The pink duck was lean and smothered in a delicious dark but subtle port and orange sauce. The vegetables, served in a separate dish, had just enough crunch. The sautŽed potatoes were deliciously fluffy and all the flavours worked well together.
We decided to complement our food with a glass of wine , my choice being a fresh Pinot Grigio at £4.45 and his a smooth Merlot at £4.25.
St Michael's Square, Penkridge, ST19 5AL
Tel: 01785 716300
www.thelittletonarms.com
