Auberge Restaurant

The Auberge Restaurant is located in High Street, Rishton, near Blackburn. It was formerly the National Westminster Bank, but now serves a much worthier and entertaining mission in life than the transaction of mere money, perhaps best demonstrated by a vault that is full of wine rather than dusty papers and filthy lucre.

English cuisine tinged with influences from Europe sets the tone, and Auberge does a brisk trade in weddings and funerals, so in that context at least a sense of match and despatch continues to make itself felt. Functions, special occasions and parties of up to 50 people are very welcome.

Over the years I have reached the view that, in general, any restaurant which takes trouble over its Sunday lunch stands a good chance of being pretty much on the ball at other times, and Auberge is no exception.

Their à la carte menu is always available and starting courses could offer some of the famous Bury black pudding served with fried onion and bacon, stir-fried tiger prawns and vegetables tossed in garlic butter. A plate of smoked salmon, or wild duck confit served with red onion and beetroot compote provide a cold option before turning attention to a good range of main courses, starting with the guest fish of the day or, by giving 48 hours notice, fresh lobster prepared to your taste.

A vegetable korma is served with a timbale of rice, and by way of contrast a griddled fillet steak of ostrich with a wild cracked black pepper cream sauce could introduce you to something new. Stuffed loin of suckling pig, a 6oz venison steak or pan-fried lamb rump are all served with sauces of your choice, seasonal fresh vegetables or salad if preferred.

A pleasantly sharp citrus shortbread is served in layers, filled with orange cream, but before you leap spare a thought for the homemade brandy snap basket, packed with stem ginger ice cream and topped with a brandied apple sauce.

A 3 course set dinner is also available, and a typical meal could offer smoked mackerel and beetroot tart served with crème fraîche, a griddled pork chop served with sherry, mushroom and cream sauce, rounded off with strawberry pavlova, all for £12.95.

The neighbourhood clientele are well looked after 6 days a week, but do check out times with the restaurant. Their early diner menu is very popular with the locals and could consist of delights such as Lancashire tart with crème fraîche as a starter, followed by steak and kidney pie, rounded off with chocolate fudge cake but there is plenty of choice in each course. At £8.95 this is almost cheaper than eating at home.

Gareth and Tracey are celebrating 10 years at the Auberge in 2008, and it is very clear they are popular and highly competent guardians of its standards.

Their Website will keep you up to date with a restaurant that moves with the times and values its customers.