Andre Padgett (15 October 2007)

I recently dined at the Turnberry Restaurant and experienced the most wonderful evening since returning to Scotland earlier this year. Having lived in a city with a never ending choice of superb five star restaurants, it has been quite a challenge to return to rural Scotland with the highlight of the week being a trip to the local pub (not that there is anything wrong with pub grub).

Pre-dinner drinks in the Ailsa Bar were a pleasant start to the evening. The service was good but I did feel that there could have been a bit more assistance and explanation with regards to the menu. We then moved through to the restaurant and had one of the best tables, situated at the window - just a shame it was a winter's evening and we couldn’t enjoy the sun setting over Ailsa Craig.

We enjoyed a five course menu that was by far the best I have ever had in Scotland. We had a delicious langoustine amuse bouche that was so well presented, it was almost a shame to eat it. This was followed by scallops and then the most mouth watering foie gras. The main course consisted of pigeon on a green pea risotto, and was cooked to perfection.

After all this delicious food, we decided we could not possibly manage dessert but instead opted for the cheese and biscuits. Of course, the selection of cheese were all produced in Ayrshire. Throughout the evening, the staff were extremely attentive and friendly without being overbearing. The sommelier selected wines to accompany the meal all of which matched the dishes perfectly.

The new chef, Matthias Diether has obviously worked his magic, as the food was divine. It was a wonderful evening and I would recommend the Turnberry Restaurant to anyone looking for something that bit extra special.