The Counter by Robin Read - A Seasonal Tasting Menu Experience
Nestled in the heart of Royal Tunbridge Wells, The Counter by Robin Read offers a meticulously crafted tasting menu that celebrates seasonal and sustainable cuisine. Here, classical cookery meets innovative techniques to create an immersive dining experience that delights all the senses.
Starters
Begin your culinary journey with a selection of artfully composed starters that highlight fresh, local ingredients and masterful flavor combinations.
- Cured Mackerel Croustade: A delicate croustade featuring cured mackerel paired with creamy broccoli purée, tender Birchen asparagus, and a touch of seaweed, delivering a refreshing oceanic start.
- Ricotta with Broad Beans and Peas: Creamy ricotta mingled with fresh broad beans, peas, crunchy kohlrabi, and the distinctive flavor of Nocellara olives, creating a vibrant and earthy starter.
- Jersey Royals with Watercress Velouté and Smoked Eel: Tender Jersey Royals enhanced by a silky watercress velouté and complemented with rich smoked eel for a luxurious and balanced opening dish.
Main Courses
For the main event, savor dishes that celebrate local produce with refined techniques and bold, nuanced flavors.
- Seaweed-Baked John Dory: A beautifully cooked John Dory encrusted in seaweed, served alongside a spring vegetable pot au feu, guanciale, and fragrant lovage to elevate the coastal flavors.
- Roast Saddle of Sussex Lamb: Succulent saddle of lamb paired with courgette, a rich aubergine sauce, and a vibrant oregano-spiked jus gras that delivers depth and warmth.
Desserts
Conclude your meal with delicately composed desserts that balance sweetness and texture, perfect for a memorable finish.
- Creme Fraîche Parfait with Gooseberry Compote: A silky creme fraîche parfait accompanied by tangy gooseberry compote, crunchy linseed biscuit, and elderflower gel for a refreshing and elegant dessert.
- The Sweet Treat Tower: A delectable tower of soft fresh fudge, classic canelés, and rich chocolates, offering a variety of textures and indulgent flavors to end your meal on a sweet note.
Drinks and Specials
Complement your dining experience with a thoughtfully curated selection of wines, beers, coffees, and cocktails. The wine menu includes intriguing options such as exquisite pudding wines that pair beautifully with dessert selections. Seasonal specials occasionally feature 5- or 10-course tasting menus that showcase the chef's creativity and seasonal ingredients, offering an unforgettable gastronomic adventure.
