Menu The Old Vicarage

Nestled in the countryside, The Old Vicarage offers a refined yet welcoming dining experience that blends classic British flavors with a modern culinary twist. Known for its seasonal tasting menus and commitment to locally sourced ingredients, this restaurant has earned a reputation for sophistication and creativity. The Old Vicarage menu reflects the changing seasons and is carefully curated to take diners on a journey of textures, flavors, and aromas. Whether you’re visiting for a special occasion or an indulgent meal, the dishes are thoughtfully presented and full of character, capturing the essence of fine dining in a charming rural setting.

About The Old Vicarage Dining Concept

The Old Vicarage is more than just a restaurant it’s an experience built on heritage, hospitality, and exceptional food. Housed in a beautifully restored building with historical charm, the restaurant emphasizes slow dining and culinary exploration. The menu is often set as a tasting experience, which allows the chefs to showcase their best seasonal offerings. Each course is designed to harmonize with the next, creating a memorable and immersive meal that reflects the artistry of the kitchen.

Focus on Seasonal Ingredients

One of the defining features of The Old Vicarage menu is its devotion to seasonality. The kitchen team sources ingredients from local farms, foragers, and producers whenever possible. This ensures that every dish served is at the peak of its freshness and flavor. Because of this commitment, the menu changes regularly, reflecting the ingredients that are naturally abundant at that time of year. Spring brings tender greens and herbs, summer offers vibrant berries and vegetables, autumn introduces rich game meats and root vegetables, and winter focuses on comforting flavors with a touch of warmth.

Sample Tasting Menu Experience

While the menu evolves frequently, a typical visit to The Old Vicarage might include a seven- or nine-course tasting menu. The dishes are elegantly portioned and arranged to complement one another, with an emphasis on balance, contrast, and innovation.

Canapés and Amuse-Bouche

The dining experience usually begins with a series of small bites designed to stimulate the appetite. These may include:

• Truffle mushroom arancini with a parmesan crisp
• Beetroot tartlet with whipped goat’s cheese
• Smoked mackerel mousse on rye cracker

Each canapé is prepared to offer a punch of flavor in a single bite, combining textures and visual appeal to set the tone for the rest of the meal.

Starters

The starter course typically features lighter flavors that highlight the freshness of seasonal produce. A recent example might be:

• Asparagus velouté with poached quail egg and tarragon oil
• Or, a heritage tomato salad with burrata, basil granita, and black olive crumb

These starters are often vegetarian and crafted to highlight the natural sweetness and earthiness of vegetables and herbs.

Fish Course

The fish course introduces delicate seafood paired with creative sauces and garnishes. A sample dish could include:

• Pan-seared sea bass with fennel purée, pickled cucumber, and citrus foam
• Or, cured trout with horseradish cream, radish salad, and dill oil

The presentation is often minimal and elegant, focusing on precision and balance.

Main Course

The main dish is where richness and depth come into play. Meat and poultry are commonly featured, often accompanied by root vegetables or grains. Some options might be:

• Roast lamb loin with minted pea purée, confit shallot, and lamb jus
• Venison fillet with celeriac fondant, blackberries, and red wine sauce
• Free-range chicken breast with truffle mash, baby leeks, and thyme jus

Vegetarian or vegan alternatives are always available upon request, often using seasonal mushrooms, lentils, and hearty vegetables.

Cheese Course

Before dessert, diners may opt for a curated selection of local cheeses served with house-made chutneys, artisan crackers, and dried fruits. This course provides a savory pause between the heavier main course and the lighter dessert finale.

Desserts at The Old Vicarage

The dessert course offers a sweet and refreshing end to the meal, often combining fruits, herbs, and a touch of indulgence. Examples might include:

• Lemon verbena panna cotta with honeycomb and strawberry gel
• Chocolate delice with salted caramel, hazelnut soil, and crème fraîche sorbet
• Poached pear with almond sponge and vanilla ice cream

Desserts are plated artistically, offering both visual delight and satisfying sweetness that doesn’t overwhelm.

Wine Pairings and Beverage Options

For guests interested in a full sensory experience, The Old Vicarage offers expertly selected wine pairings that complement each course. The wine list includes international labels as well as boutique bottles from independent vineyards. Non-alcoholic pairings, such as herbal infusions or sparkling juices, are also available for guests who prefer an alcohol-free experience.

• White wines with fish and light starters
• Red wines with lamb, beef, or game
• Dessert wines or port with sweets and cheeses

The beverage menu also features house-made cocktails, local craft beers, and a range of soft drinks and teas.

Accommodations for Dietary Restrictions

The Old Vicarage takes dietary preferences and allergies seriously. Whether guests are gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, or avoiding specific ingredients, the kitchen is always ready to adapt the menu accordingly. Each course can be modified without sacrificing taste or presentation, ensuring that every diner enjoys a complete and satisfying experience.

Private Dining and Special Occasions

In addition to regular service, The Old Vicarage is a popular venue for private events, including weddings, anniversaries, and corporate dinners. Custom tasting menus can be created for these occasions, with special attention paid to the preferences of the group. The serene setting, paired with exceptional food and service, makes it an ideal choice for meaningful gatherings.

The Old Vicarage menu stands as a testament to British fine dining with a contemporary soul. By showcasing seasonal ingredients, meticulous presentation, and a progression of flavors, the restaurant provides more than just a meal it delivers an experience. Whether you are a local resident or a traveler seeking something special, the tasting menu at The Old Vicarage promises elegance, comfort, and culinary excellence in every bite. With thoughtful attention to detail and a warm atmosphere, it’s a destination that invites guests to relax and savor each moment of their meal.