For very special occasions in my family, only the Mitre at the Culloden will do. As soon as you enter the hotel, you are treated as a VIP, which always works for me! Doors are opened, coats magically whisked away, chairs pulled out and crystal bowls of fabulous nibbles appear. The highly professional waiters and sommeliers are friendly and at the absolute top of their game; knowledgeable about the food and wine without being intimidating know it alls. They wouldn't dream of telling madam that a merlot does not go with fish in this place - what madam wants, madam gets!
This really is fine dining for a special treat, I wouldn't bring my little darlings although I would imagine they would be made most welcome. The bill for two with a bottle of wine will be well over £100 but boy is it worth it! My favourite starter to date is crab tian with water melon (who knew they go together like a dream?) and all starters come with a choice from the bread basket of home baked guinness, olive, cheese or wheaten bread. The last time we visited we were also served an incredibly intricate little complimentary starter of salmon which was a single mouthful of heaven.
Main courses are fab too. I have had salmon, chicken, sea bass and Irish venison, all of which have been presented like works of art and which tasted amazing. My good manners have also driven me to order dessert - it would be rude not to try the pecan tart or banana pudding and homemade ice-cream.
What I love about the Mitre is that you get all the elegance and ceremony of a traditional fine dining restaurant but with modern twists and menu choices like curried butter and smoked paprika oil for your bread.
If you are going for a romantic dinner, ask for a table overlooking the restaurant. Mind you wherever you sit you're in for a treat, especially at weekends when they have a live pianist and jazz singer. Dress up and let the good times roll. read more