It has to be said it’s not very often I catch myself struggling to find some cause for criticism (or should I say constructive feedback?) when I’m invited to visit a restaurant for review purposes.
There’s always something from the experience that can be improved upon.
But I don’t mind admitting my recent visit to the newly refurbished Queen & Castle in Kenilworth has become a new favourite – and a very good incentive to bring me back to this hitherto unexplored town.
We’re lucky to be blessed with a top-notch choice of restaurants in Warwick and Leamington which can tend to make us lazy in our pursuit for something new. We’re creatures of habit after all – and there’s a comfort in the familiarity of our local haunts- especially when we want to be certain of value for our hard-earned money.
But I’m delighted to reassure you that the Queen & Castle is well worth taking a risk on. We will definitely be back.
So what’s all the fuss about?
Firstly – and the reason I was invited – is to appreciate it in all its newly refurbished glory – a top to tail transformation, taking inspiration from the UK’s most luxurious country dining and drinking hotspots. The fresh and sophisticated design combines earthy, wooden tones with a rich warm palette, brass finishes and smooth leather, creating an opulent and cosy feel.
Think open log fires, plush velvet seating and feature lighting, expertly crafted furniture, eye-catching artwork and feature finishing touches.
As for satisfying your appetites, the Queen & Castle serves fresh flavours inspired by the seasons and modern world-food trends; so you can enjoy a broad range of premium grill dishes, Asian influences, plus plenty of healthier and lower calorie options. Leading the charge is Head Chef Nexhat Zhegrova, who has been with the pub for seven years.
Whether you fancy something from the grill, such as Rotisserie Pork Belly or expertly aged steaks, there’s something to suit all tastes. Showcasing seasonal flavours, from Pan-Fried Wild Scallops with Smoked Haddock Bonbons to Hoisin & Plum Duck Stir-fry, the menu is packed full of irresistible creations and comforting classics, plus a dedicated Vegan Menu.
We were invited to share three Small Plates – Chipotle Sticky Chicken, Pork Belly Bao Bun and Duck Parfait which were all polished off pronto.
For main course I opted for the Pan-Roasted Lamb Rump with dauphinoise potatoes, carrot and red pepper puree, tender stem broccoli, basil pesto and Bordelaise sauce while hubby devoured his dish of Pan-fried Seabass Fillets & Chorizo with roasted red pepper and onion confit, lentils and grains, baby potatoes and pea puree.
And, having been careful to leave enough room for dessert (I spied the menu so it was a no-brainer!), we were certainly not disappointed with our choices of Blackcurrant Mousse and Apple & Rhurbarb Crumble. (Happy they still cater for my winter pudding cravings in the height of summer! Lol!)
Some of the other delectable desserts on offer include the Sicilian Lemon Posset and Melting Chocolate Bomb. (I spotted this on another table and it looks irresistible. Next time. . .)
Prices are as competitive as anywhere else- if not more so – and staff and service friendly and efficient with a comfortable amount of time between courses. We all hate those places that seem to be rushing you out the door, right?
The pub also makes the most of its location, directly opposite Kenilworth Castle and Elizabethan Gardens, its new interior also drawing inspiration from the site – as well as its royal name – with rich, sumptuous colours with royal connotations and traditional wallpapers used throughout the space.
The exterior has also been elevated and revamped and will now be open for use year-round with fixed seating scattered amongst planters, beautiful botanical archways, and a stretch tent providing additional covered dining space.
To make the weekends extra special, guests will be able to share a Chateaubriand and a bottle of fine wine, such as Premier Cru Burgundy or Rioja Gran Reserva, for a delicious and indulgent treat.
There’s also a delicious lunch menu – including hand-stretched stone baked pizzas and freshly prepared sandwiches and a brunch menu of classic favourites and healthy alternatives served from 9am on Saturdays and Sundays. Not forgetting The pub’s Sunday roast dinners.
Discerning drinkers will appreciate the extensive cocktail menu which includes classics with a twist, such as a Koko Colada, everyone’s favourite Martinis and a selection of Spritz, plus an impressive wine selection.
If you have a special occasion coming up, The Queen & Castle can also cater for you in their private dining room – which also happens to come with breath taking views of the castle. What’s not to love?!
My husband and I walked away from our time here full of compliments – and hearty food! We were very taken by this pub and will definitely be back – when I will also make the time to enjoy some more of what this part of the county has to offer.
Visit The Queen & Castle here
