It's strange but like a lot of the local Epsom residents, it rarely crosses my mind to think of the Chalk Lane Hotel as a fine dining venue. Perhaps, it's the fact that it's tucked away up a small lane a little way out of town.
This lack of local recognition was confirmed on the night that a friend and I dined there. The restaurant was full of business travellers staying at the hotel eating alone and we were the only diners from outside the hotel.
That's a shame as the restaurant does aim to deliver a fine dining experience and the food lives up to that standard, both in presentation and flavour of the dishes. There is a tasting menu available but we stuck to the a la carte as there were several dishes we wanted to try from there.
Honey glazed octopus and squid with watermelon and Feta sound like an unlikely combination but the sweet and salty flavours and the contrasting texture actually was fantastic, aided by a sharp balsamic vinegar dressing. I followed with a fantastic cut of full flavoured beef accompanied by some roasted bone marrow. A long fork was provided to pick out the rich bone marrow. The beef was of the highest quality. An apricot souffle was exemplary in lightness, height and fruit flavour, which was accented by apricot compote and sorbet.
So, if you live in the area and are looking for a fine dining restaurant for a special occasion, I can recommend the Chalk Lane Hotel. read more