Restaurant review: Aurora

Where I ate:

Aurora, Helena Road, Ipswich

I’d not been to Aurora since Easter Sunday last year, so it’s fair to say, I was thoroughly looking forward to it – particularly given how lovely my meal was last time.

Once again, the only downside to the whole afternoon was how quiet the restaurant was. Obviously both times have been quite early in the year and I imagine in the summer (or at least when it’s sunny), the place thrives, but it’s just a shame it’s so quiet when we go. There were two other couples and then a party of eight or so, but it’s such a lovely restaurant in a picturesque location, it should be a lot busier than it was. There can’t be many better places to go for Sunday lunch in Ipswich, either.

Both times I’ve gone on a Sunday and both times opted for roasts (first time I had pork and this time I had the lamb) and both times I’ve left full and happy. The staff are always friendly and helpful, the view of the docks (even with grey skies) is beautiful, the atmosphere inside is relaxing – what more could you want?

Again, like so many of my reviews of late, I was driving – so it was my new favourite drink of choice: sparkling water.

What I ate:

To start – chicken liver parfait with fruit chutney and sourdough toast

To follow – woodview farm lamb with mint sauce, served with roast potatoes, cauliflower cheese, carrots and sprouting broccoli

To finish – pear & almond tart with Chantilly cream

The last time I went to Aurora, I could barely manage one course, let alone three; at £21.50, a three course meal is very reasonable, particularly given the size of the main courses. The chicken liver parfait was excellent, although I don’t often go for pâté to start as there’s never enough bread/toast. The fruit chutney was beautiful: sharp and sweet, but I feel it could have done with a leafy or rocket garnish.

I opted for lamb for my main course – the roast meats were that or beef, with two fish options and a veggie alternative – and I made an excellent choice. The last time I had lamb, it was a bit fatty, but this was cooked perfectly – and with barely any fat on it at all. It was also National Yorkshire Pudding day: what a bonus!

Dessert was never in any doubt, I had my eye on the pear & almond tart the moment I looked at the menu. It certainly lived up to my expectations, fresh and hot from the oven and incredibly moreish; the pastry just melted in the mouth, lovely and buttery.

All in all, another fabulous afternoon at Aurora – if you’ve not been yet, why not?