The Pony Chew Valley is a divine restaurant in Knowle Hill, which provides exceptional food in a beautiful setting, always utilising methods of sustainability where possible.
The Pony Chew Valley's lush surroundings are home to the flourishing no-dig beds and polytunnels, tended by Tim the gardener. Tim grows a selection of vegetables, herbs, and fruits for the Pony Garden, delivering the harvest to the restaurant within minutes of picking. Deep into the Millard Orchard, named after local legend Bruce, a long time customer, are the eight year old fruit trees which yield apples, pears, and medlars, contributing to the delicious puddings and chutneys. Blooming flowers attract bees, creating a lively 'bee hotel,' and inspiring future hive additions. Elderflower is also harvested for cordial and vinegar, while elderberries add a touch to game meats.
At The Pony Chew Valley start off with first courses such as mushroom pâté with celeriac remoulade, hazelnuts, and treacle bread, or savour Cornish crab with spelt risotto and hand picked white crab salad. Enjoy the Pony's smoked Chalk Stream Farm trout, accompanied by Pony Garden pickles and seaweed mayonnaise.
For the second course, enjoy a Somerset pecorino gnocchi with winter pesto and roasted squash, or opt for Beech Ridge duck breast paired with pressed turnip and a blackberry and honey sauce. Finish off your meal with a choice between a rhubarb and custard trifle or an apple and almond tart with baked apple ice cream. A la carte dining is served between 12 and 2pm from Wednesday through to Saturday, and between 5.30 and 8pm in the evenings.
Sunday lunch is served between 12 and 4pm. For those who want to learn how to cook such exceptional dishes at home, The Pony Cookery School has a purpose built demonstration kitchen, featuring ten fully equipped cooking stations. Experience an assortment of cookery experiences, including engaging workshops, classes, and tasting evenings. Led by talented chefs, this is an experience of hands on cooking, and an opportunity to show off your efforts.