Arbutus Reviews

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.

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.

We visited this fine restaurant last night as we were entertaining clients. We received excellent service throughout the evening. The menu was amazing, catering for all areas one can imagine. It was perfect, my clients left very happy and I intend to visit it again soon.