Revamped pub serves up plenty of tasty treats
Peterborough Evening Telegraph review: The Fitzwilliam Arms in Marholm has just undergone a major facelift.
The revamp, which has included new fitted seating, a new colour scheme and layered curtains, has also created 15 new jobs, 10 working at the front of the pub and five in the kitchen.
Landlady Kerry Ridge, who took over the pub in June, said: We've had a complete refurbishment and it is looking really good.
The olde worlde charm still prevails but we're also providing modern comforts. It's a best of both worlds.
And I have to say, I agree.
The pub is beautiful, not only on the outside, with its picture perfect location and thatched roof, but also in the inside which is cosy and contemporary.
Unfortunately, our first impression was spoilt by the initial service we received. Not only did the barman ignore us for several minutes, there seemed to be some confusion over our booking - which no one could find. Once this was resolved, however, and we were shown to our seats, the experience got much better and our waitress, Cristy, was polite, attentive and friendly.
The menu at the Fitzwilliam is extensive offering plenty of dishes to suit all tastes.
I chose the sauteed tiger prawns for my starter, which consisted of prawn in roasted garlic and tomato and parsley butter.
The prawns were cooked to perfection and the roasted tomatoes delicious, my only criticism is that for £5.45 I would have expected the dish to have consisted of more than just three prawns!
My husband chose the Piedmont peppers, topped with French goats cheese, rocket and a balsamic dressings, £3.95.
Unfortunately this starter was overcooked so the peppers were a slightly mushy and in some places burnt.
The main courses however were fantastic.
Cristy recommended the slow-cooked lamb (lamb shoulder, slow braised with mint and rosemary, served with dauphinoise potatoes, steamed asparagus and garden peas), £11.95. The meat literally fell of the bone and was so tasty. I loved it.
My husband chose the Greek chicken dish. This consisted of baked chicken breast topped with feta, pine nuts and basil, served on mash with roasted sweet pepper and peperonata sauce, £10.95. This was beautifully presented, and tasted amazing.
The pub's children's menu also offers plenty of choice from soup of the day to scampi and rump steak and tomato strozzapreti. My son, Samuel, opted for the sausage and mash with peas and gravy. The helping was generous, but thoroughly enjoyed.
He scrapped the plate clean and even had room for two scoops of chocolate ice-cream and chocolate sauce.
We could not fault the main courses or the service we received from Cristy, but some work still needs to be done on the initial welcome.
By Julia Ogden, 17 December 2010, http://www.peterboroughtoday.co.uk/restaurants read more