Father’s
Day seems so long ago now and originally we weren’t planning on doing much –
other than cards, presents and family time. Instead, we went out for lunch at
The Caldecotte Pub & Grill. Ashley’s aunties were over from Cyprus and New
Zealand and one of them had yet to see our house, so I booked a table for 1pm
for six and a highchair.
Last
time, we sat downstairs, which was really lovely as the restaurant is so open.
This time we were upstairs, directly above the middle of the restaurant. Alfie
loved the views, not only out of the large windows, but looking down at the
other diners and whoever entered or exited the pub. Larger parties must be sat
upstairs as there were three tables, all ready to seat eight (or more) – there
was plenty of room, even with the highchair. Once we were settled and I’d
sorted Alfie’s lunch, it wasn’t long before we ordered drinks. I finally got to
try the rhubarb gin which was beautiful; quite delicate in flavour, but refreshing
nonetheless.
There
was no specific Father’s Day menu, but it was the usual a la carte with the
option of roast dinners. Despite being a Sunday, it was far too hot for me to
have a roast – but they were a popular choice with the rest of our party (they
are always tastier when you’ve not had to cook them yourself). We all went
straight in with main courses, after that obligatory “does anyone want a
starter?” conversation! And it’s best we didn’t have anything else to eat...
I’m always a dessert over starter person anyway, but when I say we all only
managed one course, that says it all!
I
chose the sirloin steak (medium rare), which came with triple-cooked chips, an
onion ring, grilled tomato and dressed watercress. It was supposed to be served
with a steak ketchup, but I assume as I ordered an additional sauce (beef
dripping gravy), it was omitted. I thoroughly enjoyed the meal as a whole,
especially as I’d not had steak for a while and it was cooked to perfection –
I’m no longer a blue girl! I wish I’d gone for peppercorn sauce with my steak
as the gravy was a bit too lumpy for me; I prefer smooth silky gravy!
Ash
went for a steak too and chose one from the signature section of the menu. The
butchers stuffed steak was also a sirloin, filled with stilton, sautéed
mushrooms and peppercorn sauce. He chose to have it medium rare too, as per the
recommendation on the menu. Unfortunately, he tells me it was more medium from
where it had been sliced. Still, it looked very nice – and filling!
In
terms of the roast dinners, our party sampled the rump of beef, loin of pork
and lamb shanks. The lamb was on the main menu, but could be served as a roast
dinner: complete with giant Yorkshire pudding, roasted and mashed potatoes, a
selection of vegetables and gravy. The portions were huge, so I think I would
have struggled to finish, had I opted for a roast – and it’s little wonder we
didn’t manage dessert!
I
have to quickly mention our waitress Francesca, who was really fabulous. She
was kept busy with three large parties (and possibly more tables downstairs),
but she was so efficient and even apologised twice for the slight delay on the
food arriving (it wasn’t even a problem!). We have since been back for lunch
and again she looked after us – I remembered her and eventually she remembered
Alfie when I mentioned Father’s Day. I just think she deserves some
recognition, because she was brilliant with Alfie on both visits, keeping him
well entertained!
I’m
so pleased Ashley enjoyed his first Father’s Day, which will no doubt always be
a difficult day for us both. I’m glad we managed to go out and celebrate and
Alfie was well-behaved, so bonus!
Love,
Lucy xx
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Love, Lucy xx