The Mutton Pub at Hazeley Heath Review: A Culinary Haven

Ah, The Mutton. A name that conjures images of hearty meals and crackling fires, but this is no ordinary pub. This is a culinary haven, a sanctuary for the discerning palate, where the whisky flows as freely as the conversation and the food… well, let's just say it's an experience.

First impressions? Tick. Tucked away down a charming country lane, bordered by a verdant tapestry of ferns, the picturesque setting immediately sets the tone. Ample parking, a godsend for those arriving in their well-heeled chariots (or, in my case, the trusty Jeep Wrangler Sahara), adds to the sense of arrival.

And then, the aroma. That intoxicating scent of a roaring fire, a comforting beacon on even the chilliest of evenings. It's enough to make a grown man weep with joy.

Inside, the ambience is warm and inviting. The air crackles with anticipation, a symphony of clinking glasses and hushed murmurs. The whisky list, oh dear lord, the whisky list. A veritable bible for the aficionado, boasting a dizzying array of Scotch single malts that would make any connoisseur swoon. I, for one, indulged in a delightful journey through the Highlands, savouring the smoky peatiness of this and the honeyed sweetness of that (Emily drove back). But the selection doesn't stop there. Irish, Japanese, blends… the choices are endless, a testament to the pub's dedication to the discerning drinker.

The pub proudly quotes the Earl of Rochester referring to his patron King Charles II:

“Here lies our mutton-eating king,

Whose word no man relies on;

He never said a foolish thing,

And never did a wise one.”

Of course, today leaders say all manner of foolish things and commit many unwise acts. Nostalgia eh?

And the wine? Exquisite. Glasses designed by Nigel Sutcliffe – yes, that Nigel Sutcliffe, the man behind the magic at the Fat Duck – added a touch of Michelin-starred glamour to the proceedings. Even the house red, a bold move in this age of pretentious wine lists, was a revelation. Rich, robust, and remarkably good value, it clearly demonstrated that The Mutton prioritises customer satisfaction over profit. A refreshing change indeed.

A Culinary Journey

But let's talk about the food. The food at The Mutton Pub is nothing short of extraordinary. The menu features a variety of dishes that showcase the chef's creativity and passion for flavours. The spring rolls, hailed as the best ever, are a must-try. These fat, meaty, and juicy rolls are richly flavoured and set the tone for the culinary delights that follow.

The crumpets, though unusual, are a delightful surprise. Light and topped with plenty of onion and tomato, they are complemented by a deliciously crunchy smoked aubergine. While the crumpets are intriguing, they are overshadowed by the exceptional spring rolls.

Main Courses to Savour

And then came the main courses. The Bialo cabbage, a dish that defies description. Crispy yet soft, it was a textural masterpiece, a flavour explosion that seemed to assault all five senses simultaneously. The shepherd's pie, a classic comfort food elevated to new heights, was a triumph of buttery potato and rosemary-infused mutton.

But the pièce de résistance? Emily's sea bass and crushed potatoes. Oh, that dish. A symphony of flavours, a culinary crescendo. Creamy, delicate, bursting with herbs and the subtle sweetness of white wine, it was a dish that lingered long after the last bite.

Decadent Desserts

And finally, dessert. A veritable sugar rush for the soul. The tea cake, a light and airy affair, was perfectly complemented by a wafer-thin sauce of freeze-dried apple and a generous sprinkling of crunchy bits. Refreshing, unique, and utterly delightful. But the real showstopper? The choccy tea cake, a decadent masterpiece of raspberry marshmallow, raspberry coulis, and apple ice cream. The chef clearly understands the importance of texture, a fact that was evident in every bite.

And then there were the Madeleines. Piping hot, fluffy, and utterly irresistible on their own, they were transformed into a winter warmer when paired with the hot miso butterscotch sauce. Pure comfort food heaven.

A Pub Worth Travelling For

Touring in a Jeep Wrangler Sahara, we found The Mutton Pub to be a destination worth travelling for. The excellent food, in the best tradition of a gastronomic pub, makes it a standout choice for those seeking a memorable dining experience. The attention to detail extends to the ladies' restrooms, which are among the nicest we've ever seen, complete with Bramley toiletries.

And the atmosphere? Electric. Every table was full, a testament to the pub's enduring popularity. It was clear that this was a place where locals and visitors alike came to indulge, relax and simply enjoy the good life.

The Mutton Pub offers a unique blend of comfort and sophistication, making it a standout choice for those seeking a memorable dining experience. From the impressive whisky and wine list to the exceptional food and service (Claire was particularly helpful and charming), every aspect of the pub is designed to delight and satisfy. Whether you're a local or a visitor, The Mutton Pub is a destination worth travelling for, promising an unforgettable evening in the heart of the countryside.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I think I'll book another table.