We first visited the Bottle House about 2 years ago and have returned frequently ever since - O.K. as frequently as the long journey from Sandwich permits! On arrival this time we found that it had changed hands. A very worrying few moments! Well you know what can happen to pubs when the landlord changes.
We needn't have worried - the menu is is superb and very imaginative: Starters include a most wonderful scotch egg wherein the sausagemeat has been replaced by pulled pork and served with asparagus tips and flaked salmon (Philip and I had this whilst Judi had the baked goats' cheese).
For main course, some old favourites like belly pork (Philip) but also Monkfish in a prawn jambalaya (mine) and Swordfish with a balsamic drizzle served with a stir fry (Judi's).
Pudds were made in-house and included a honey pannacotta, chocolate brownie, honeycomb baked cheesecake and creme brulee - so I just had to have the mini dessert taster.
Wines are good - Judi had a superb Marlborough Sauvugnon whilst Philip & I shared a Carignan/Grenache. The only disappointment was that Harveys Bitter is no longer available. - perhaps Larkins is as good? I wouldn't know.
A final important point - Bertie (mini-schnauzer) was welcome as were other well-behaved dogs. read more