Decided to finally visit a few of the ‘foodie’ pubs within a short drive of our humble abode. So far we have tried three, all successfully. We go at lunchtime and all recommend booking, which has the added advantage of encouraging a little structure throughout the week. Even though Covid restrictions are being lifted, it can still be tempting (and easier) to stay in. Booking a visit at least forces your hand a little.
First up Was the Turks Head Gastro pub at Hasketon. A an award winning proper country pub we had previously been to for a drink, it’s taken us well over two years to get back. It was very good, with excellent ale and a fabulous restaurant offering beautifully executed seasonal dishes. Guess it has to that good ‘cos although it’s quite good walking territory, it small and relatively rural village setting precludes simply dropping in. Thoroughly well deserved reputation, with good vegetarian and vegan dishes as well.
Followed that with a trip to the Parrot and Punchbowl at Aldringham, not far from Aldeburgh / Thorpeness. A pub therefore, that we had passed whist en route elsewhere, we finally got to see its inside. Run by a couple who had previously worked at the Dolphin in Thorpeness, they took over the 16thC smugglers pub when it fortuitously became available. Fine food again, although this was quieter than anticipated – the staff said it could vary considerably from day to day. Special mention for the ‘Tipsy Affogato’, which came with the expected espresso and the unexpected spicy rum. Delicious. Got talking to another customer in the bar – very bright and chatty so no surprise to find out that he was a mere 97 years old!!
Then, on the Friday just gone, ventured out to the 14thC Greyhound Inn at Pettistree. Again, we’d been before, where we indulged in a little real ale tipple in the lawns at the front of the pub; it was definitely summer, but more years ago then I care or can remember. We did say we would go back there though, aware of its excellent reputation (sound familiar)?? A beautiful 14th Century Village Inn situated in the quintessential Suffolk village of Pettistree. Run by Louise and Stewart McKenzie, Louise produces a wonderful menu including pub classics alongside local game and fish dishes, with the occasional Scottish twist thrown in for good measure. The emphasis is on local seasonal food, which is in abundance in Suffolk. Stewart serves up fine local ales, alongside an expanding collection of Malt Whisky & Scottish Gins. The Victoria real ale from Earl Soham and Mrs. No Name’s pinot grigio were both great and ridiculously cheap.
Again, the food was top notch and if I had to give the favourite title to any so far (all worth more than one revisit), I think it would go the Greyhound. I would stress that all three were lovely, characterful pubs with excellent staff and friendly, efficient service with very fine food. All delightful to visit but the Greyhound was the busiest of the three, although that could be nothing other than the day of the week we happened to be there. Oh, and I should mention we also indulged in a pub country walk via Wickham Market after the lunch! (courtesy of the pub walk by the lovely Darcy, look her up…).