Titchwell Manor
Titchwell, Norfolk
Occupying a prominent site on the coast road, this attractive former Victorian farmhouse has for decades operated as a boutique hotel, bar and restaurant under the guidance of the Snaith family. Head chef Oliver Hilton-Bacon (ex-Morston Hall) now works alongside chef-patron Eric Snaith, and they have put together a menu of ‘classics’ (ie classy versions of brasserie food, including local oysters) plus a short, seasonal list of more French-inspired dishes. Diners can choose between the convivial bar area, or walk through an elegant lounge into the restaurant, where two smaller spaces lead to a bright conservatory overlooking the lawn. Thick napery and ample space between tables signify the increased formality. Slices of just-baked focaccia made a great opening to a meal that continued with a fresh-from-the-pan fishcake, packed with fish and served with a vibrant green whirl of chive mayo. This won hands-down over a watery marinated beetroot with goat’s cheese cream and pesto. The main-course star was a beautiful piece of beef sirloin (complete with luscious fat and bone marrow), well-matched with a king oyster mushroom and served with blobs of parsley emulsion and caramelised onion purée. No complaints, either, about a sausage-like portion of pork tenderloin with hispi cabbage wrapped in a translucently thin slice of guanciale, or a ‘spring on a plate’ side dish of Jersey Royals in wild garlic butter. Finish, perhaps, with a creamy honeycomb bavarois, sweet macerated gariguette strawberries and sorbet (and banish all thoughts of Angel Delight). Our food was expertly presented throughout and delivered by well-meaning staff. The wine list is also worthy of scrutiny, featuring unusual choices from the likes of Japan and the Peloponnese. With more consistency, this kitchen could rival the area’s top destinations.
Dining Information:
Accommodation, Separate bar, Wheelchair access, Parking, Family friendly, Dog friendly, Deposit required
Main Road, Titchwell, Norfolk PE31 8BB
01485 210221
