The Queen's Arms
our comments
For a bar/restaurant still finding its feet at this time, the Queens Arms offers good food and drink with a better environment than a run-of-the-mill gastro pub. Recently refurbished with a modern, yet traditional twist, you’re greeted by a natural wood bar and impressive staircase leading you either to a light and roomy bar on a mezzanine level or upstairs to a more sultry dining restaurant area. A newly installed glass roof creates a light and airy ambiance for diners upstairs and drinkers at the bar alike.
The restaurant is roomy which allows for an intimate evening, given that it’s generally preferable to not feel part of the next table’s conversation. The menu features classic dishes with a simple but modern take. Spinach and Wild Garlic soup with Duck Egg and Ham had delicate yet moreish flavours. Thickened with a little potato it had a nice consistency, but it may have benefited from a slightly warmer duck egg. Other starters included Asparagus rolled in Parmesan with Poached egg and Jamon Serrano; the perfectly cooked asparagus had a slight crunch and it was a success although again the poached egg could have been warmer. Smoked Haddock fish cakes and Foie Gras and Chicken liver parfait extended the classic smaller dishes at an affordable price.
Mains offered selected dishes, six in total with well-sized portions. The Confit Duck Leg, Duck breast and Seared Foie Gras on a Potato Galette with chicory and red wine jus was simply done. The Confit Duck Leg was slightly overcooked but the duck breast was satisfyingly pink in the centre and was well complimented by perfectly pan fried Foie Gras with tangy Red Wine Jus, which gave this dish the rich tones it needed. The Pan Roasted Halibut with Braised Baby Gems, Gnocchi, Pea Puree, Scallops and Bayonne Ham had a good balance of soft texture and flavours and was well done, despite a slightly unpleasant aftertaste to the scallops. Risotto Primavera, Gorgonzola, Peas, Sugar Snaps, Broad Beans and Pea Shoots with Parmesan shavings sounded particularly tempting amongst, other favourites such as the Lamb and Mint burger with Tzatiki.
All this was accompanied by the recommended Chenin Blanc, crisp but light and lovely fruity undertones, and a Pinnochio Rose, also recommended, was truly divine. Deep red in colour but incredibly easy to drink and light with a very smooth texture and density.
A trio of Sorbets, Passion fruit, Grand Mandarin and Raspberry was refreshing and fruity, with a not too tangy an aftertaste plus the natural flavour of real fresh fruit, not the fruit puree which is so often used for making sorbets.
With informative and friendly staff, you walk away feeling very looked after. Reasonably priced and offering an attractive environment with classic dishes and an ample array of drinks to suit everyone’s tastes, take The Queen’s Arms at the level it’s aimed at and you won’t be disappointed.
G.F. - June 2007
your comments review this restaurant and win a bottle of champagne
Great food at a good price, attentive staff and a good selection of draught beers and wines. Has everyhting you would want from a local. Top marks.
Comment on this reader review
Doug Pickles
Overall rating 
Food 9 | Service 9 | Atmosphere 8 | Value for money 9
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
