Following the recent launch of their Summer 2017 menu - we sent our food blogger Sarah along to the Lemon Tree Restaurant in Wrexham to check out the latest offerings by head chef Mike Peters. Here's what she thought...
My partner and I chose to go for a rare quiet impromptu mid-week date night. We wanted somewhere we could truly relax in beautiful surroundings and an interesting choice of food. We chose the Lemon Tree, somewhere virtually on our doorstep in Wrexham town centre.
"We have been promising ourselves a visit for some time and when better than for the advent of the new summer menu. Well we were delighted - from beginning to end".
On arrival we were greeted at reception by restaurant owner Sam Regan who showed us to our table, situated in a cosy snug area off the main dining room which felt private and relaxed, just what we wanted. We had a beautiful view of the gothic style windows framed by tasteful and elegant understated décor which was beautifully coordinated throughout. The pristine hardwood floor gave a traditional modern feel to the room. The place was immaculate. The music was modern – we were treated to the likes of George Ezra, and it was the perfect volume.
We were seated and immediately asked if we would like drinks, or whether we needed some time to look at the drinks menu. I treated myself to a G&T, but not just a G&T, this was rhubarb flavour gin with Fentiman’s tonic. Also on offer were Tiger Gin, Gordon’s, Hendricks. It was delicious, a nice twist on a traditional cocktail. Great to be able to try something new.
"Sam and Mike and their team know what they are doing and are at the forefront of modern dining and what clients enjoy".
My partner chose a beer from the boutique beers menu. There are 8 different to choose from. We had a look at the wine menu too - for next time. There was a comprehensive guide of worldwide varieties complete with tasting notes and sweet/dry ranges. We were also offered water for the table, which I always think is a nice touch and shows the depth of attention to details for the dining experience.
For my starter I chose goat’s cheese panna cotta with walnut crumb, pickled beetroot and pea shoots, with garlic crostini. It arrived on a slate and was an elegant dish. The goat’s cheese was soft and smooth and complimented perfectly by the walnut crumb. The beetroot was thinly sliced and striped white and pink which look beautiful next to the creamy goat’s cheese and green pea shoots. The tartness of the beetroot balanced the panna cotta wonderfully. And I am now a beetroot convert! The thin light crisp crostini was a pleasure to eat with the cheese and accompaniments. For me the starter was a meal in itself and as I had my eye on a particular dessert I saved room for my next course. Although I could have eaten this again as an alternative cheese board!
My partner chose the Cayenne spiced belly pork with baby apple and rhubarb compote with crunchy crackling, Chinese five spice sauce and pea shoots. I’m assured it was beautifully cooked and the Chinese sauce was tasty. The crackling was audibly cooked to perfection.
For my main I chose the tomato, chickpea and fennel and broccoli tagine with almond and Ras el Hanout couscous. It was presented in a traditional tagine and unveiled with aplomb! It was a tasty meal, the fennel flavour worked well in this Moroccan dish which was both healthy and vegan. On the menu there was both a vegetarian and a vegan dish to choose from, which is a refreshing and welcome option for this level of restaurant.
My partner chose lamb rump which was cooked to his requirements and was four generous slices with a round of Boulangere potatoes, and ratatouille which was a perfect accompaniment to the meat. He polished off his plate of food in near silence – it must have been good!
For dessert (a rare choice for me but when I read the menu and saw there was strawberry and mint mille fuille I knew I had to try this!). I had been wanting to make one for some time but couldn’t muster up the courage for fear of disappointment. Made by a skilled chef I was not disappointed. It was light flaky crumbly crisp pastry with a light whipped cream, tasty strawberries and fresh mint leaves and a drizzle of coulis and a trickle of white chocolate sauce. It was accompanied by a gorgeous deep pink raspberry sorbet and fresh summer fruit.
My partner opted for the trio of chocolate dessert. Warm chocolate sponge, chocolate ice cream and a rich white chocolate tart. All, I’m told, were delicious. Apparently it was too nice to share!
After our meal we were completely full, so we didn’t linger for more drinks or coffees. Another time however we may take advantage of the midweek offers – currently in June 2017 on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday diners receive a free bottle of house wine when two people order two courses. As we didn’t take up this offer we were spontaneously and generously complimented our first round of drinks.
Also available is Thursday steak night for £20 including a drink and free desserts on Sunday with a two course meal for £16.50.
"This is somewhere I will definitely visit again, for another date night or with friends or family. I would be proud to bring my parents here for a treat. We had a truly lovely time".
Bill with discounted drinks for to people for three courses each was £56.00
OVERALL:
Ambience 5/5
Service 5/5
Food 4.5/5
Value 5/5
If you are looking for quality restaurant food in Wrexham then you can relax in The Lemon Tree Restaurant, it’s just what you are looking for. After a weary day on the road traveling, or at work you will be well looked after by our friendly, dedicated team.
In the evenings we become your destination for Modern British Cuisine, freshly prepared by Head Chef Mike and his team.
To compliment the menu we also have a fine selection of beers, cocktails and fabulous wines.
For groups of up to 8 we have our semi private dining areas suitable for families, parties or corporate entertaining.
Breakfast: 7:00am – 9:30am Lunch: 11:30am – 5.30pm Dinner: 6:00pm – 9.30pm
BOOKINGS: http://thelemontree.org.uk/contact/