Savouring Seasonal Flavours: An October Prix Fixe Experience at Brasserie Blanc 🍂

As soon as we entered, we were greeted by a warm and friendly member of the team, who showed us to a table next to the window. We made ourselves comfortable as they bought over the menu and some water for our table. We spent a few minutes perusing the menu which had a good number of choices for everyone, including vegan and vegetarian dishes; three starters, four main courses and three desserts.

I choose the feature of this month’s menu, a complimentary 330ml bottle of Lucky Saint beer (0.5% ABV), when you dine from the prix fixe selection. It’s a lovely touch that enhances the dining experience, making it perfect for a relaxed afternoon. My colleague chose a refreshing Elderflower Presse.

Once we had made our choices and the chefs were busy preparing our dishes we chatted and commented on how nice and relaxing the environment was. Beautifully decorated there was just the right amount of lighting, and the noise level was perfect. I can be quite sensitive to noise and I remember thinking I could just hear the general buzz of people having conversations and enjoying themselves around me.

Starters

We tried all three starters, PUMPKIN & KIRSCH SOUP (ve) with toasted pumpkin seeds, HAM HOCK & PARSLEY TERRINE with apple & prune chutney & garlic croutons and CELERIAC SALAD (v), with shallots, free-range poached egg & Dijon mustard dressing. All three of these starters were delicious, my firm favourite being the pumpkin soup, which just tasted smooth, cosy and like I had just stepped into Autumn. The Ham Hock and Parsley Terrine was chunky and flavoursome and went well with the accompanying chutney, (not being a fan of prunes, I was pleasantly surprised at how yummy this was). The Celeriac Salad was both crunchy and full of flavours, nicely finished off with a poached egg on top cooked to perfection!

Main Courses

For the main course, we indulged in the PORK COLLAR CONFIT, beautifully paired with grain mustard mash that added a delightful tang, complemented by Savoy cabbage sautéed with crispy bacon and enriched with a sumptuous pork jus. The dish was a harmonious blend of flavours and textures, showcasing the expertise in preparing this succulent cut.

We also savoured the SMOKED HADDOCK & CHALKSTREAM TROUT FISHCAKE, a true highlight of the menu. Nestled atop a bed of creamy kale and spinach, it was crowned with a perfectly poached free-range egg and garnished with toasted almonds. Each bite was a revelation, with the delicate smokiness of the fishcake beautifully balanced by the richness of the egg and the crunch of the almonds. Together, these dishes created a remarkable dining experience that was nothing short of extraordinary!

Also available on this course is STEAK FRITES EXPRESS with garlic & herb butter, French fries, mixed leaf salad, (2.00 dish supplement applies) and CANNELINI BEAN CASSOULET (ve) with wild mushrooms & piquillo peppers & croutons.

Dessert

To end our culinary journey, we delighted in the TREACLE SPONGE (my favourite dessert), a sumptuous treat drenched in a luscious Cointreau sauce that added a citrusy warmth to the rich, sticky sponge. Accompanied by creamy vanilla ice cream and a dollop of vegan crème fraîche, this dessert was a beautiful balance of sweetness and tang, leaving us utterly satisfied. My colleague savoured the CHOCOLATE TORTE, a decadent slice that was intensely rich and wonderfully indulgent. Its velvety texture paired perfectly with a smooth crème anglaise, enhancing the deep chocolate flavours and providing a delightful contrast. Each bite was pure bliss, showcasing the artistry of Brasserie Blanc in creating desserts that are both comforting and exquisite.

Overall

Overall, Brasserie Blanc is an absolute hidden gem that deserves to be discovered. The cost of their exquisite two or three-course meals is remarkably reasonable, especially considering the high-quality food and top-notch service you receive. The staff are not only friendly but also incredibly knowledgeable about the menu and the ethos behind each dish, which enhances the dining experience immensely. Their expertise instils a sense of reliability and trust in both the service and the quality of the food. For anyone seeking a memorable meal in a welcoming atmosphere, Brasserie Blanc is a must-visit destination that promises satisfaction on every level.

Expect a variety of options that reflect the season's bounty, featuring locally sourced ingredients that shine in each plate. Whether you opt for a hearty starter or a delectable dessert, each choice reflects Brasserie Blanc’s passion for quality.

In summary, Brasserie Blanc’s October Prix Fixe menu is an excellent choice for those seeking a delightful dining experience rooted in sustainability and taste. Don’t miss the chance to savour this limited time offer while enjoying a complimentary beer in a charming setting!

Brasserie Blanc has earned the highest 3 Star Accreditation from the Food Made Good standard, showcasing their commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing. They work closely with reputable UK producers, farmers, butchers, and fishermen, ensuring that every dish is not only fresh and seasonal but also supports responsible practices. This dedication is evident in the vibrant flavours and thoughtfully crafted dishes on the menu.