The Tilbury

TV chef Paul Bloxham is a man with a passion for British food and for rescuing old pubs. After his success at the Cabinet at Reed, he’s weaved his magic once again on this old village boozer. Wisely, he has retained The Tilbury’s best features: bare brick walls, open fires & scuffed wood floors, ensuring a cosy feel in both the dining room and bar and attracting an enthusiastic local crowd to eat & drink in equal measure. The seasonally inspired food is well-executed. An evening meal might kick off with sea trout topped with a seared scallop & served alongside pea risotto, flecked crispy pancetta. To follow, marmalade roasted duck breast, port-glazed figs, Savoy cabbage & lime jus proves a deft combination of flavours, while hot chocolate & marshmallow brownie, cherry syrup & pistachio ice-cream rounds things off nicely. Even the pub classics served at lunch have finesse, and it’s all backed up by a carefully assembled wine and beer list and friendly, efficient service.