From buzzy spots in London and street food markets to a stunning gastropub tucked away in Suffolk, here’s a round-up of some of our favourite places we’ve visited this year so far
WHERE WE’VE BEEN
THE UNRULY PIG, BROMESWELL, SUFFOLK
Those in the know might have heard of the Unruly Pig in Suffolk already. The highly-regarded foodie hotspot has won countless awards in recent years, and even nabbed the leading position as the UK’s best gastropub in the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs this year (not for the first time, either).
With so much hype surrounding the food, you might be forgiven for thinking it’s somewhere that takes itself quite seriously. Somewhere you feel you have to sit up straight, daren’t laugh too loudly or couldn’t possibly admit that you don’t know your Winslade from your St Jude (which are cheeses on the menu, by the way).
Far from it. As its name suggests, the pub is playful, fun and constantly pushing boundaries in all areas of its offerings. This is largely due to owner Brendan Padfield, who took on the inn around nine years ago after a career in the legal profession in London, and who is hugely passionate about bold flavours, local produce and offering a dining experience like no other.
The atmosphere is laid back, cosy and welcoming, and, perhaps unsurprisingly, bustling with energy. Its interior is somehow both classic and timeless (with an open fire, beams, wood-panelling, exposed brick walls and aged rugs), while being modern and edgy. Quirky artwork adorns the walls, along with a bronze pig’s head, and stylish furnishings complete with caramel leather button-back banquettes finish the look. It’s certainly a feast for the eyes.
Of course, something that it does take seriously is the food. And boy, is it good.
On the night we visited, we had the pleasure of being served by Olly – someone who really knows his stuff. He guided us through the offerings and made recommendations based on our likes and dislikes. The menu itself is not extensive by any means, but instead focuses on a few key dishes that it does superbly well – the sign of a good kitchen in our opinion. Chef patron Dave Wall is clearly extremely talented and the dishes show a deep understanding of ingredients.
We began with nibbles – arancini with a warming hint of nduja and taleggio, focaccia with anchovy
