The Sir Charles Napier

Sweet lunch on the go

Pumpkin, ewes curd, king oyster, roscoff onions

This is my second visit to Sir Charles Napier, a Michelin starred gastro pub in Oxfordshire with a stunning garden, packed with interesting sculptures. I had eaten at Sir Charles Napier for the first time six months ago, and I was generally very impressed with the cooking quality and flavours execution, which meant it was totally worth a detour when I was on my way to Cotswold from London. This time I opted for the set lunch menu, at £19.50 for two course, not something that is possible in London!

The Sir Charles Napier's garden

Charred mackerel, oyster mayonnaise, kohlrabi, apple

Rabbit cannelloni, carrots, mustard

As a starter, what a fine dish the rabbit cannelloni was, the pasta was made and cooked perfectly, well seasoned, tender and it had lovely flavours from the carrots and mustard which offer sweetness, as well as sharpness. The braised ox cheek with horseradish mash might not have the best presentation, but the meat was as moist as you can get with a rich, melting texture that I just simply adored. I was also in love with the hazelnut and tonka bean soufflé, soft and creamy, but not overly sweet, along with the nutty aroma and the boldness of the coffee ice cream, it was such a perfect match.

Braised ox cheek with horseradish mash

Hazelnut and tonka bean soufflé

Caramelised chocolate and peanut terrine

The set lunch on the go turned out to be pretty special, and it was perhaps one of the best set lunch deals I have eaten at a Michelin starred restaurant. If I exclude the drink and dessert,  for less than £20 for such a refine meal like this at a Michelin restaurant? What a steal. Beside the wonderful food and charming service, what makes this place special is the relaxing atmosphere and surrounding, dining at The Sir Charles Napier felt like you are cut off from the rest of the world and everything is moving in a slower motion, which meant this is a perfect venue as part of your city escape trip.


Food 4/5

What I paid: 
£35 per head with beer

Average cost without drinks and services:
£50

Sprigs Holly, Chinnor OX39 4BX, United Kingdom

http://www.sircharlesnapier.co.uk/