Tradition, decadence and opulence are all on the menu at The Gallery Restaurant in Stanton Manor Hotel. Let us paint the picture - a dark, moody room; exposed brick walls; under-counter lighting; 18th century wooden panelling and deep armchairs of rich fabric. Bar seating, cosy corners and an elegant drawing room caters to all tastes making the perfect setting for a relaxed meal, served by friendly staff.
Head chef Jordan Dugan unleashes his talents with a menu of traditional British delights that feature fresh, local, seasonal ingredients - with some grown just steps away in the kitchen garden.
Start your cosy evening off with the chef's recommendation of celeriac veloute served wth rich, black truffle oil, celery cress and an added crunch of croutons. The rare beef salad, served with whipped parmesan, toasted pine nuts, pickled carrot and croutons makes the perfect accompaniment to the wine of the month; a red of dark fruit, spice and a hint of oak.
The chef's recommendation for the main course is one of 12 hour slow-roasted Whiltshire pork belly. Tender and juicy pork comes served crispy and salty on the outside along with honey mustard glazed carrots, fondant potato, black pudding and a cider sauce that brings a hint of sweetness to the dish. Other highlights include staples such as The Stanton Burger, fish and chips, and a 48 day dry aged Ribeye.
Finish off with a timeless sticky toffee pudding and vanilla ice cream or perhaps you'll opt for one of the chef's innovative creations. A lemon posset comes with a chocolate soil, a touch of mint and tart raspberries while the chef's recommendation uses honey from the manor's own bees in a clotted cream that accompanies a chocolate fondant infused with lavender, grown in the garden.
If Stanton Manor wasn't quintessential enough, their Sunday roast is sure to convince you. Beef, pork, fish or a vegan wellington come served with buttery vegetables, golden roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding and a thick cauliflower cheese.