The Dining Room At Mallory

Standard of food and drink from beginning to end was first-rate. Flawlessly detailed dishes brimming with flavour and textures including the generous variety of canapé served at perfect temperature, some warm, some cold (5 total). If tonight was an indication of the normal standard then this establishment deserves 2 stars. Neither John Campbell (Vineyard) nor Michael Caines (Gidleigh Park) in my experience have achieved this standard. The menu read interestingly. Wines favoured France. Technically the best bisque I have had anywhere, complete with scallop pieces and crab ravioli which helped transcend this starter to ethereal. A decorative plate of duck and foie gras terrine was also delectable. Two mains of rabbit loin yielded softly as did the delicate flavoured offal and pork belly served alongside. Morello cherry ice cream served with pistachio cake and pistachio ice-cream scattered with whole cherries only added to contentment. Service was good but not on par with the kitchen where fastidiously presented dishes [just the right side of fussy] were matched in taste and produced by a Chef with a well-tuned palate. Two menus comprising 3 courses £40 or £55. Generous sized tables were housed in a comfortably arranged dining room. I just wish I was within easy striking distance of this homely Country House.