Nestled within the luxurious Pennyhill Park Hotel in Surrey, The Latymer is a hidden gem of fine dining that showcases the culinary brilliance of head chef Steve Smith. Holding a coveted Michelin star, this restaurant epitomises elegance, with service that is both attentive and warm.
From the moment you enter The Latymer, you're transported to a world distinct from the rest of the hotel. While Pennyhill Park is airy and expansive, The Latymer exudes an intimate, almost secretive charm. Its wood-panelled walls and cosy ambiance create the feeling of having discovered an exclusive sanctuary.
Before our visit, the restaurant made sure to inquire about our dietary preferences and any strong dislikes, ensuring that our tasting menu experience was personalised to perfection. This attention to detail set the tone for a meal that felt as much a story as a series of courses.
The seven-course tasting menu, accompanied by snacks and petit fours, was presented at a delicate pace, with each dish introduced like a carefully crafted tale. One of the standout moments was the calves sweetbreads, which were impeccably seared and infused with the smoky richness of Alsace bacon, finished beautifully with the sweetness of parsnip.
Equally impressive was a dish centred around a simple single ingredient served in a variety of textures; a tart entirely made of beetroot, from the crunchy casing to the sweet jelly filling. This sort of artistry is where head chef Steve Smith really shines, showcasing his mastery.
The evening concluded on a high note with a mango and rice tart - a refreshing and visually stunning dessert, elegantly perched on a delicate pastry disk and adorned with floral accents. Throughout our meal, the in-house sommelier elevated the experience with expertly paired wines, each glass accompanied by fascinating snippets of history.
The Latymer’s commitment to local and seasonal ingredients shone through in every bite, and the service was impeccable from start to finish. While the tasting menu may be on the pricier side for the Home Counties, the experience is nothing short of exceptional, making it well worth the indulgence for a Michelin-starred adventure in fine dining.