‘Conversation Menu’
A gourmet seven-course Conversation Menu with optional matched wines has been introduced at Titchwell Manor, which overlooks North Norfolk’s coast near Brancaster, England (map). Created by Head Chef Eric Snaith, it allows diners to sample a selection of his most innovative dishes at a relaxed pace with plenty of time between courses to discuss the flavor combinations, textures and presentation.
Unlike a Tasting Menu, which usually presents the best from an existing menu but in smaller portions, the Conversation Menu offers unique dishes. Changing regularly, the set meal is served by candlelight Monday–Saturday evening in the candlelit Conservatory Restaurant.
After an appetizer expect two starters, perhaps a scallop tartare with Granny Smith apple, kohlrabi and truffle, or local Brancaster crab with sweetcorn, ice cream, elder and sea purslane matched with a glass of Austrian Rabl, Gruner Veltliner 2010.
Next is a fish course while for mains you might be able to try Norfolk Lamb combined with black olive, yoghurt, crackling and Norfolk Pak Choi and paired with a glass of Crozes-Hermitage 2009 or perhaps a Norfolk Quail breast with a glass of Chilean Perez Cruz Cot from their 2010 vintage.
This is followed by a cheese course and two desserts such as coconut, passion fruit, mango and baked chocolate paired with a glass of Essensia Orange Muscat 2009 from California.
Titchwell Manor, which has uninterrupted views across open marshes to the North Sea, has 27 en suite bedrooms. Prices start from £110 per double/twin room per night (breakfast included); main courses from the brasserie style menu start from £7 and the Conversation Menu is £55 per person or £85 including matched wines.
(Photo of Brie de Meaux Custard by Eric Snaith, Head Chef, Titchwell Manor)
