Relative newcomer to the Manx dining scene (open about four months) but in the top tier of a very good group of restaurants. Nicely decorated restaurant in the Admiral Hotel. I was the only person in the dining room from about 7-7:45, which was a little disappointing (you like the buzz of other tables) and only one other table arrived before I left. That said, it was an excellent meal.
I opted out of the 7-course tasting menu but next time I think that would be an interesting option. Instead, I started with a pigeon breast on cous cous. The pigeon was cooked perfectly and the cous cous was very interesting as there were many different fruits (raisins, pomegranate, etc.) sprinkled in with it. The cous cous was served cold (not even room temperature), which initially turned me off but the different flavors won me over.
For my main course, I had hake, served over potatoes with a jerusalem artichoke puree. The hake was cooked perfectly and the puree was wonderful, that's what made this a five star meal. There were a few small bones in the hake, always a downer for me, but the dish was so good it still warrants five stars.
Service was very attentive without being too much (which can happen on a slow night). Hopefully, the crowd will pick up and they will establish themselves among the top places on the island, the chef definitely deserves it. read more