Alfresco dining in our region
by Laraine Kirkham
A gentle breeze. Sunshine. Nature. Just three reasons why dining outdoors just can’t be beaten.
Whether it’s a romantic moonlit dinner for two, a sun-kissed brunch with friends or a lazy afternoon’s grazing with the family, it’s simply refreshing to get a side-order of fresh air with your food.
Al Fresco dining originates from the Italian words “al fresco” meaning outside, at a fresh temperature and there has been plenty of that over the past few weeks. But let’s stay positive! It is a style of dining that is casual and often party-like in its atmosphere and garden centres are now crammed with the latest barbeques, outside lighting, tables, chairs, colourful bunting, and an array of utensils to tempt us into dining outside. Indeed, our streets and alley ways seem to be littered with tables and chairs outside cafes and restaurants, resembling that cosmopolitan look of being abroad.
Fancy some fresh air with your taste this summer? So the weather isn’t perfect - all the more reason to grab the next opportunity to enjoy dinner al fresco! We may not have a Mediterranean climate, but you have to admit a balmy English evening is pretty hard to match when it comes to dining outside and enjoy the pleasures of al fresco eating, mainly because they are so rare! But don’t be put off by our all too often inclement weather. Garden Centres are now sporting the latest garden staple from America, the fire pit! Ranging from the most basic design of a cast iron bowl to the new generation of pits incorporated into tables, they remain hot after cooking giving out lots of warmth for lingering liqueurs and idle chat. In fact they ideally suited for our climate and can be used all year round. Of course the chimenea, made from clay and sitting on a steel stand, from Spain has been around for a few years but the desire for more contemporary designs has given birth to a fabulous range of fire pits now available here, which will be a hot feature at the Chelsea Flower Show this year.
If the self made picnic or barbeque at home lacks appeal, there are numerous alternatives in and around our area that provide us with as much opportunity for the pleasure of eating out in pub gardens, gastropub patios and restaurant courtyards as we have previously only experienced around the Mediterranean.
Summer Dining at The Farm
The Farm is the place to be for lunch or dinner with friends or a loved one.
The menus are always seasonal and the new summer menu is made to be enjoyed on those long sunny days.
The Farm in Solihull offers a great social dining experience in a historic Grade II listed farmhouse. With fabulous decor to enjoy for those not so sunny days and when the sun really shines fabulous decking to soak up the sun.
The food has a definite mediterranean feel with a selection of sharing and grazing platters, steaks/ribs & burgers are a speciality and there is an interesting sounding selection on the rotisserie and stove menu.
Mon-Thursday lunch and early evenings there is a fixed price menu to take advantage of and Sunday lunch is a snip at £7.95.
Inn at the Farm, Farmhouse Way, Monkspath, Solihull B90 4EH
0121 711 7273
The Beeches - Hampton in Arden
GREAT VIEWS
With some of the best views across Solihull, The Beeches Bar and Grill in the village of Hampton in Arden is a great place to enjoy a relaxed meal.
The pretty Georgian pub, just a few minutes’ drive from Solihull town centre and close to the NEC, serves unpretentious British and Mediterranean food - and quality speaks for itself.
Chef owner Iain George has used his wealth of culinary experience to put together a menu that appeals to diners who appreciate high end quality restaurant food at pub prices. And now there is a new chef - Matt Ebdon - who is adding his expertise to the mix. It’s why the pub is consistently popular with locals and occasional visitors to the area.
The Beeches’ huge gardens and terraces are always popular with families and couples looking for a great al fresco meal in lovely surroundings.
Whether you fancy brunch in the garden - tucking into smoked salmon and scrambled eggs, full English or omelette - or fine dining from the formal restaurant menu, soak in those beautiful views and enjoy the fresh country air.
Dishes include Herefordshire beef Wellington, crab and spring onion linguine, and Gloucestershire Old Spot pork chops. Or what about something from the popular classics menu - pie of the day, liver, bacon and caramelised onion, or mussels marinière?
Whatever you choose, you are guaranteed a superb meal, served by friendly, knowledgeable staff.
Take your time - sink into the comfy sofas inside or enjoy the summer sun outside, read the papers and relax at The Beeches.
For more details, visit www.thebeecheshampton.co.uk
Episode Hotels - Leamington Spa
new chapter
Take advantage of the warm, sunny days by taking a meal on the newly refurbished and enlarged terrace at the Episode Hotel in Leamington Spa.
With a newly extended decking area, their outside area is just perfect for enjoying lunch or dinner and a drink or two with friends and family.
This chic 31-bedroom hotel in Upper Holly Walk, just one mile from Leamington Spa railway station, boasts a fabulous menu that features high quality, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible.
All chicken, eggs and Warwickshire pork are free range, while chef insists on using 28-day dry-aged beef from Herefordshire Cross herds. Diners select cheeses from artisan producers and fruit and vegetables are season-led to try to avoid air freighted produce.
Meals are served in the bar from noon until 10pm and diners are spoiled for choice with dishes that feature modern British cooking with hints to continental style and techniques. For more relaxed dining, enjoy a Club sandwich or home made steak and ale pie.
Formal dining in the restaurant, which is open from noon-2.30pm and 6.30-9.30pm, includes starters such as chicken and ham hock terrine with grape chutney and toasted sourdough bread and pan fried scallops with pineapple and chilli pickle with crispy bacon lardons. Tempting mains include slow cooked Gloucestershire belly pork, braised Welsh lamb and spinach ricotta ravioli with garlic bread and parmesan salad.
And why not enjoy your meal on the terrace with a glass of Champagne from its new wine list or a cocktail from its expert mixologists?
For details and special offers, visit www.episodehotels.co.uk
The Bell - Alderminster
imaginative classics
Good food, excellent beers and wines and a stunning view - all can be enjoyed at The Bell, Alderminster, near Stratford-upon-Avon.
This traditional country pub and restaurant with individual boutique bed and breakfast accommodation is part of the Alscot Estate. The Bell sits in the heart of Alderminster, a picturesque village on the outskirts of the historic market town.
Take advantage of the long summer days and enjoy a fabulous meal and drink in the spacious country pub garden.
Ideal for families, couples and groups of friends, The Bell boasts a beautifully landscaped courtyard garden that provides a sophisticated area in which to relax.
Chef offers an imaginative menu that is sure to tempt any discerning diner. Inspired by both locally sourced produce and continental delicacies, the dishes combine modern, fresh contemporary food with nods to classic style.
How about the smoked salmon parcel filled with Cornish crab, king prawn and salmon mousse to start, followed by salt and peppered Gressingham duck breast or a hearty mixed grill? For children, there are a selection of high quality meals such as focaccia pizza, pasta carbonara or lemon battered fish and chips, plus a tantalising selection of puddings.
There are also lighter options and snacks available from the bar to enjoy with drinks, which include a host of traditional real ales, guest beers and carefully selected wines.
The Bell, Alderminster, Stratford upon Avon Warwickshire CV37 8NY Tel: 01789 450414 www.thebellald.co.uk
The Leopard at Bishops Tachbrook
NEW SUMMER DISHES
A lazy breakfast, a lunch with friends or dinner with a loved one … the new summer menu at The Leopard in Bishops Tachbrook, Leamington Spa, is made to enjoy on those long, sunny days.
With food being served from 10am until 9.30pm, now is the ideal time to take advantage of the pub’s large garden and impressive patio area and soak up the rays with a cooling glass of wine from its extensive cellar or a beer from its impressive cask and bottle ranges.
Launched in June, the new summer menu has plenty of light dishes and salads, says manager Luke Moss.
Hot smoked salmon Caesar, Moroccan chicken salad are just right for smaller appetites and the sandwiches, including its hot grilled selection, and burgers are also very tempting. But for something more substantial, why not try the traditional fish pie or aubergine parmigiana?
Its popular fish and chips, which can be ordered as a take-away, will also be on the menu throughout the summer.
Youngsters are also spoiled for choice with a dedicated menu available or they can choose smaller portions from the à la carte and set menus.
The Leopard is a pub for all the family - and that means your dog, too. Dogs are more than welcome to join their owners in the garden, making the al fresco dining choice the ideal one after building up an appetite on a walk.
For those who prefer to dine inside, but still want to take advantage of the sunny days, the large glass doors of the restaurant open onto the garden
For more details, telephone The Leopard on 01926 426466.
The Brasserie - Leamington Spa
RELAX IN STYLE
The Brasserie at Mallory has a laid back and natural atmosphere that perfectly complements the contemporary menu. Serving delicious modern European food and traditional British classics at value-for-money prices, the Brasserie has been recognised as an excellent dining destination in Leamington Spa, with the award of two AA Rosettes.
The Brasserie boasts a unique sense of style, with its art-deco inspired interior, walled gardens and sun drenched terraces for al fresco dining, a stunning cocktail bar and upstairs rooms for private dining. It is a fantastic place to enjoy a relaxing meal out with friends or family, offering afternoon tea, Sunday lunch, children’s and vegetarian menus alongside the A la Carte.
The hugely popular Thursday evening ‘Jazz in the Braz’ events bring you music from some of the country’s leading jazz musicians, creating the perfect excuse for a night out. The Brasserie also offer Dish of the Day at £9.50 including a glass of wine at lunch and dinner.
The Brasserie is open all day Monday - Saturday 12pm - 2.30pm (last orders) 6.30pm - 9.30pm (last orders) and for Sunday Lunch 12pm - 3.30pm (last orders). The Brasserie is closed on Sunday evenings.
Please call 01926 453939 to book.
The Ferry - Stratford upon Avon
oozing with charm
Good food, excellent beers and wines and a stunning view - all can be enjoyed at The Bell At Alderminster, near Stratford-upon-Avon.
This traditional country pub and restaurant with individual boutique bed and breakfast accommodation forms part of the Calcot Estate in the heart of Alderminster, a picturesque village on the outskirts of the historic market town.
Take advantage of the long summer days and enjoy a fabulous meal and drink in the spacious country pub garden.
Ideal for families, couples and groups of friends, The Bell boasts a beautifully landscaped courtyard garden that provides a sophisticated area in which to relax.
Chef offers an imaginative menu that is sure to tempt any discerning diner. Inspired by both locally sourced produce and continental delicacies, the dishes combine modern, fresh contemporary food with nods to classic style.
How about the smoked salmon parcel filled with Cornish crab, king prawn and salmon mousse to start, followed by salt and peppered Gressingham duck breast or a hearty mixed grill? For children, there are a selection of high quality meals such as focaccia pizza, pasta carbonara or lemon battered fish and chips, plus pudding for only £8.50.
There are also lighter options and snacks available from the bar all day to enjoy with drinks, which include a host of traditional real ales, guest beers and carefully selected wines
The Bell, Alderminster, Stratford upon Avon Warwickshire CV37 8NY Tel: 01789 450414 www.thebellald.co.uk
Chameleon - Birmingham City Centre
Express city lunches
You are in Birmingham city centre, the weather is gorgeous and you want to enjoy a meal outside - where better to go than Chameleon Bar and Restaurant?
This stylish venue in the heart of the city in Hill Street, Victoria Square, offers diners the opportunity of enjoying outside dining on the balcony.
Even if you have limited time, you can still enjoy a relaxed meal with friends if you choose from the Express Menu, which guarantees your dish on the table within 20 minutes of ordering.
Alternatively, phone ahead and book so that it is served as soon as you walk through the door.
Available from noon-5pm, the dishes on the Express Menu cost between £4.95 and £7.95 for one course. Choices include homemade soup with a filled roll of smoked salmon, Serrano ham or cheddar; a homemade pie; risotto; or jerk chicken salad, all created by head chef David Gill and his team.
General manager Matt Wagstaff is also looking forward to starting the weekend on Thursday evenings, when he launches a barbecue on the terrace, and for an extra treat, there will also be amazing cocktails on a two-for-one offer between 5-8pm.
For more information, visit thechameleonbham.com or telephone 0121 643 2233.
The Durham Ox - Shrewley
Family Friendly
The British summer months’ may be unpredictable but the The Durham Ox Restaurant & Country Pub in Shrewley, Warwickshire is the ideal location for those wishing to dine al fresco when the weather permits.
Diners on the back terrace can choose from the a la carte and daily specials menus, featuring delicious seasonal dishes. The Menu Prix Fixe, available Monday-Friday 12 noon-3pm and 6-7pm, is an exceptional way of enjoying three courses at lunchtime or early evening for just £12.50.
Families are very welcome and can dine outside on picnic tables in the extensive, secure gardens whilst children have heaps of fun in the large play area with swings, slides, climbing equipment, balancing beams and a bouncy castle. Children’s meals at £4.95 come with crudités, a soft drink and ice cream. The bar menu offers a variety of meals for grown-ups, including home-made pizzas. Coming soon, afternoon tea and cakes will be available whilst enjoying the sunny surroundings.
The outdoor bar with private terrace, open during the summer is also ideal for parties, which The Durham Ox can cater for.
The front terrace boasts sunshine until late in the day and, at weekends and bank holidays, The Ox BBQ with locally sourced meats, homemade sausages and burgers A friendly, relaxed and fun atmosphere can be experienced by all come rain or shine. Proprietor, Sally and her team look forward to welcoming you.
The Stag at Offchurch
SPOILT FOR CHOICE
Leamington Spa is definitely spoilt for choice between two award winning pubs when it comes to al fresco dining.
Choosing between the two is difficult, for a tempting feast awaits at both awarding winning pubs, The Stag at Offchurch and The Moorings at Myton.
The decision is whether to opt for a canal-side setting with The Moorings at Myton, close to the town centre, or head south east for a couple of miles to The Stag at Offchurch, nestling in this heavenly village backwater just off the Fosse Way.
The Stag is a traditional country ‘chocolate box’ thatched pub and restaurant recently refurbished, serving extraordinary good food and drink.
By contrast, its sister pub The Moorings is a larger, trendy, edge of town pub featuring an idyllic waterfront, with equally good food, wines, local beers and cocktails.
Different pubs for different markets, people and occasions. Yet both provide the perfect arena for al fresco dining, offering relaxing armchairs and sofas, landscaped gardens and a maritime or country setting for dining inside or out.
High quality, locally sourced produce is the order of the day and all food is freshly prepared with a touch of creative genius to its Anglo French menu development by executive chef Nigel Brown, a protégé of Raymond Blanc.
For further information please visit www.thestagatoffchurch.com or www.themoorings.co.uk
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