It was 26 years ago that we first arrived in the UK to begin the European part of our lives. Actually, it was 26 years and ten days ago, but let’s not quibble over a few days. The important thing is, tonight we went to dinner at a very special restaurant in order to celebrate this very special event. Like we do every year.
The restaurant we chose was The Elderflower. It’s down near the harbour in Lymington, on the lower, cobbled section of the high street.
For once the rain held off (obviously it rained most of the day) so our walk from the car park was pleasant rather than miserable. We walked into the empty restaurant, cheerful and dry.
(Actually, the photo above was taken after we left and were getting into the car to go home. When we arrived, there was a huge compactus, with bright orange, flashing lights, parked in the middle of the road. It didn’t look at all attractive.)
While the restaurant was empty, it still had a warm and welcoming feeling, and the staff greeted us just as warmly.
We were seated at, possibly, the best table. It was by a window looking down towards the harbour. The view was lovely. At least it was after the compactus left.
But very quickly, anything unhappy was replaced by the glory that was the seven course taster menu.
Afterwards, we tried to pick a favourite course. It was very difficult but, for me anyway, it was the Hot Cat, closely followed by everything else. And, naturally, I had the wine flight as well because I’m a foodie with a penchant for accompanying wines.
The tenth year anniversary noted at the top of the menu celebrates, obviously, how long the restaurant has been open. But, more than that, the menu is made up of the seven favourite dishes from the ten years, chosen by patrons.
We weren’t alone in the restaurant. A young couple from Ringwood were at the table next to us. It was her birthday, so they’d left the twins at home for a night out. They ordered the duck Wellington and, as far as they were concerned, it was fantastic. In fact, the four of us enthused about everything.
They recommended a restaurant in Milford on Sea which we’re going to try to book before we leave.
All up, we highly recommend The Elderflower for ambience, conviviality, wine but, most important, the incredible food. The variety and presentation was superb.
I was going to finish with a photo of the Hot Cat but I thought the souffle looked so lush, I went with that instead. If anyone would like to see the Hot Cat (which includes the squid ink brioche), I’ve posted a photo on my Instagram account.
