The Bridge Cheshire (THE BRIDGE HOTEL PRESTBURY)
Restaurant Review by Robin Atkins
I was invited to undertake a review of the ‘new look’ Bridge Hotel, recently purchased by Flat Cap Hotels, owners of the highly successful Courthouse in #Knutsford, the stunning converted Crown Court and The Vicarage in Holmes Chapel. I have reviewed both these venues in the past and with their outstanding Executive Chef, (Steven Tuke) adding the Bridge to his remit, we knew we were in for a treat!
Katie gave us a warm welcome and was a delight throughout the lunch looking after us extremely well - testament to the company’s excellent training programme.
The ground floor has been given a massive face lift which has really brought the original reception, restaurant and bar area to life and there is a new Garden Room. The decor is a breath of fresh air with an intrusive range of colours and a clever ‘quirky’ touch matched with genuine character. My partner Gayle, who has an extraordinary talent for interior design and I loved it!
Not content to rest on their laurels the company is now preparing to undertake a major revamp of the bedrooms and other sections of the hotel. What I admire about Flat Cap Hotels is when they say they are going to do something, they do it !
The lunch menu has been created from locally sourced seasonal produce and my first impression was ‘something for everybody’ and great value. There are so many delicious options and I eventually decided to sample the Crispy Squid – salt and pepper rub, saffron aioli, chilli, jalapeno & broccoli slaw. What an excellent introduction - beautifully presented and full of flavour.
Gayle decided to swim in unknown waters and selected the Pea and Ham – pressed salted hocks, pea, mint & broad bean crush, apple cider black pudding, pancetta and pickled cherry tomatoes. Again beautifully presented and the flavours kept coming – a definite 10 out of 10 was the verdict.
I chose the Steak Frites for my main course – flat iron rump, confit tomato, flat cap mushroom, rocket and balsamic dressing, truffle and parmesan fries. Creative cuisine at its very best and the rump was excellent.
Gayle couldn’t resist the Sausage & Mash – Glynns pork and leek sausages, creamed potatoes sticky red onion jus. This dish is one of her favourites and she had no hesitation in stating it was the best she has tasted! Needless to say we decided to pass on the dessert options!
Steven Tuke has conjured up brilliant creative dishes at the other venues and has certainly brought his skills to the Bridge. Brunch, Afternoon Tea and a splendid dinner menu is served daily. Sunday Roast has become very popular. I am not surprised because I have consumed it at the Courthouse several times!
They have also resurrected the popular ‘321’ offer - 3 Course Dinner for 2 people and a bottle of House Wine - just £49.50 which is superb for 2 people. There are also exciting plans afoot next Spring and Summer providing wine and dine facilities in the beautiful garden – watch this space.
Wine options, cocktails, wide range of gins and other spirits plus some great ales’ are all on show to enjoy with your meal.
It’s also the perfect venue for weddings in the Whiteside Suite with reception drinks in the garden.
I firmly believe that The Bridge Hotel is going to be a huge success and will be a major benefit to the village – a must visit!