I ENJOYED a lazy summer afternoon at the newly refurbished Fat Fox Inn in Watlington,
writes Judith Toner.
A traditional country pub at the heart of the community, I was greeted warmly by Jess and Ellie. The pub has a pleasingly rustic vibe with an elegantly eclectic dining room featuring grouse-themed decor.
This quirky theme is extended throughout the pub with antler-style lighting and deer racing across the window blinds.
The menu had a modern twist with dishes to suit all tastes.
I had an enthusiastic recommendation to try the scotch eggs — a house speciality and famous in the area.
I wasn’t disappointed with the traditional scotch egg — a sizeable portion with a delicious crunchy texture and a sauce that literally melts in the mouth!
Another choice is the “black pudding scotch egg”, which I look forward to sampling next time.
I went with the chef’s recommendation for the main course — seared lamb rump served with lamb tongue, sweet potato, peas velouté and goat’s cheese.
My mouth was watering as this appeared. Beautifully presented with an explosion of taste, the mixture of lamb and goat’s cheese was delicious.
Sous chef Ben Cumberpatch has travelled to New Zealand cooking the local delicacies and has a huge respect for fresh ingredients.
The Fat Fox sources and supports local traders. Everything is bought fresh and close to home.
That said, there is a worldwide selection of wine with a great choice of bubbles.
And a delicious variety of desserts such as trinity cream tarts with Chantilly cream, and wild berries, sticky toffee pudding with vanilla ice cream, and chocolate delice with candied hazelnuts and popcorn ice cream. Not to mention the homemade ice creams. For a savoury palate, the cheese selection offers everything from Oxford Blue to the Mountains of Snowdonia.
The Fat Fox is the perfect venue for any occasion. From an informal lunch to entertaining business clients or special occasions.
Book into one of the nine beautiful en suite rooms, relax and celebrate a special occasion with a wonderful meal — and leave your car in the car park at the rear.
This is a popular establishment with great food, ambience and setting — but do ring to book to as it gets busy, and with good reason.
