Arbutus

Clare Ed (15 April 2009)

I have to confess that I was very disappointed with the menu at Arbutus. Having eaten well at Wild Honey I found the menu far too stodgy and the set lunch was not particularly appealing. I had a salad of sprouting broccoli and goats’ cheese curd, I think, which was really poor. No dressing at all, it also had three lumps of potato, which wasn't mentioned on menu, if it was I would not have ordered, some fried lardons and what amounted to half a radish, sliced. This was something like £8! Bread was nice and service good but they should lighten up the menu - less rice, potato and pasta please.

John Carrick (11 April 2008)

I was greeted by a cheerful staff on arrival, who took my coat and bags. Once I was seated, warm bread was promptly brought to my table by a happy waiter. The delicate lighting combined with the wooden floor created quite an atmosphere. I had pork porchetta with granny smith apple puree for starters. I chose the pollock for my main course. While I waited, I examined the wine list, which was concise yet varied. I rather liked the idea of the carafe, it meant I could try more than one wine they had to offer. As I ordered fish I went for a 250ml carafe of the Gewurztraminer, unfortunately no suggestions were offered, so I had to wait and see if the right combination had been made. The pollock arrived and it was cooked perfectly. To go with the fine selection of fromagerie cheese, I ordered the Chateau Batailley 1999. What is usually a wonderful wine was spoilt because it was served cold. However the delicious selection of cheese on the plate made up for that. I had the lemon tart for dessert - a wonderful end to the meal. I shall be returning soon.

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