Hannah (7 May 2012)

Went to the Oxnoble yesterday (06/05/12) and thought it warranted a good review, especially having seen a few mixed reviews on various websites. First time partner or I had been there, it's a quaint little pub in the otherwise cosmopolitan area of Castlefield. Fairly crowded given that it was match day but the defined dining area gave sufficient distance from the hubbub of the bar. We had the Sunday dinner menu, representing excellent value at £14.95 for three courses. To start, I had the chicken liver parfait with red onion marmalade, toasted brioche and a mixed leaf salad. The parfait was perfect, smooth and light but served in two generous chunks with two thick wedges of sweet brioche. Partner had the Shropshire Blue with a poached pear and salad with a balsamic reduction - well balanced and the wine poached pair was not overpowering. No food envy on either account, we were both happy customers. For the mains, I went for the rare roast beef, partner for the roast rump of lamb. Both were served with a huge Yorkshire Pudding, carrot and swede mash, sugar snap peas, duck fat roast potatoes, herb mash and gravy. The meals were both excellent, a complaint might have been that despite the warmed plates, the food might have benefited from being a bit hotter. Both meats were soft and flavourful and again, served in generous quantities! I was relieved that the sugar snaps were not overcooked, something seemingly difficult for restaurants to deliver during a busy service (in my experience). The highlight was definitely the duck fat potatoes, crunchy and then wonderfully fluffy inside. Had the main alone been priced at £14.95, I wouldn't have been disappointed. For dessert, we both went for the sticky toffee pudding with butterscotch sauce. So good. Unctuous and treacly sponge with just the right amount of dates, light but incredibly rich sauce. When I get a really good dessert in a restaurant, I get an unshakable greedy smile on my face - I was beaming until the plate was completely clean. The service was attentive and we waited no longer than five minutes between courses, for what seemed like a relatively small staff, they managed very well. On the whole, we were both very satisfied and feel that we have found the holy grail - that is, the elusive Manchester restaurant that offers an exceptional sunday dinner at a reasonable price.