FOOD EDITION
CHEF’S KISS The Pheasant’s cheesecake (above) and Amelie’s roasted cauliflower (right)
French restaurant Amelie in Ben’s Yard is known for its superb contemporary food and signature flammekueche (a savoury flatbread that’s a cross between a pizza and a tart). “Our special Valentine’s Day opening will feature a candlelit dinner, live entertainment with a pianist and a special menu created by head chef Rory Landells,” says Alex Crepy, who co-owns the restaurant with his father Regis. Kick off with a cocktail or two – a negroni or classic gin martini. Menu highlights include roasted cauliflower with tahini and pomegranate, sea trout with Stuntney Estate sautéed potatoes and champagne and brown shrimp butter. To finish, the dessert trolley offers choices including tarte au chocolat, light, airy éclairs and chef’s popular Basque cheesecake. The University Arms Hotel has a Valentine’s package for those booking an overnight stay on 14 February, which includes a bottle of English sparkling wine, chocolate truffles and chocolate-dipped strawberries on arrival, complete with roses in the bedroom. Package guests will also receive a five-course dinner in its brasserie- style restaurant Parker’s Tavern. The menu focuses on classic British fare using locally sourced ingredients. Its plush interior, soft lighting and cosy atmosphere make it a lovely choice for a romantic dinner. Bistro du Vin’s à la carte menu features a wide range of delectable dishes, all set against the historic backdrop of a stylish boutique hotel. Start with a champagne cocktail and move on to hors d’oeuvres of Severn and Wye smoked salmon or classic
prawn cocktails. Plats principaux include rib eye steak (pair with rioja reserva), daube of beef provencale (pair with bordeaux superieur) or pan-fried cod (pair with smooth white viognier). “Our ethos is all about serving heart-warming food and quality artisan ingredients,” says deputy general manager Martina Bacharova. “We celebrate the changing of seasons – a selection of chef’s daily specials are curated by our talented team using fresh seasonal ingredients and local produce. We encourage you to relax, dine and soak up the atmosphere.” Here, you can unwind with an aperitif or a nightcap on a comfy sofa, enjoy some of the finest fizz in the Cellar Bar or embark on a wine-tasting journey under the guidance of an expert sommelier. Six Brasserie is offering a three-course Valentine’s Day set menu for £72 per
person, including chef’s amuse-bouche as well as a welcome tipple of prosecco, strawberry bellini, kir royale or elderflower fizz. Diners can indulge in a choice of baked camembert to share, tempura prawns and lamb samosas. For the main course, choices include tomahawk steak to share, wild mushroom and truffle gnocchi or whole lobster thermidor. Try a Varsity Punt for dessert – a mix of meringues, strawberry and vanilla ice cream and marshmallows. Sip on cocktails while watching the sun set over the city; the panoramic views make it especially romantic. Midsummer House on Midsummer Common is a two Michelin star restaurant helmed by Daniel Clifford offering an unforgettable fine-dining experience with beautifully crafted tasting menus. Set in a Victorian villa by the River Cam, it’s an intimate and elegant setting. Restaurant Twenty Two on Chesterton Road is another Michelin-recommended gem, serving seasonal British cuisine in a cosy yet refined townhouse atmosphere. The dishes are sophisticated and full of flavour – ideal for a special occasion.
This guide is for the lovers who like their dining with a side of laughter and a dollop of deliciousness
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