When I was asked to review the Tankerville Arms at Longden I was delighted as I had not been there for a few years.
It is now owned and superbly run by Ian Bunker and Theresa Lenihan who moved here two-and-a-half years ago from London, assisted by their chef Ian Fieldmesser. It was a freezing cold night and the last thing I wanted to do was go out. But when we walked in there was a roaring log fire – so warm and welcoming. I have to say, the evening just got better; if the food was as good as first impressions, we were on to a winner and we were not disappointed.
The menu was excellent, a choice of five starters from £2.95, 12 main meals from £8.95 and two vegetarian options for £6.50. There was also a specials board.
For starters I chose the Roman mushrooms, which consisted of button mushrooms sauteed in garlic topped with sausage meat, chasseur sauce and cheese and baked in the oven, for £4.65.
Brian opted for the clam chowder from the specials board, a hearty thick soup of vegetables, clams, sweet corn and double cream – a meal in itself for £4.25.
I then chose a house special of half a duck, after checking it was actually half a duck and not four or five small slices – how many times has that happened? It was cooked to perfection, with plenty of meat and lovely crispy skin, along with the classic orange and cointreau sauce, for £10.95.
Brian chose from the specials board again, and opted for for galatine of chicken for £9.75 – chicken stuffed with asparagus served with white wine, cream and asparagus sauce. It was delicious.
The fresh veg came separately, swede, carrots, red cabbage and leeks, with a choice of potatoes, chips or jacket.
There is a selection of six sweets. I chose Bailey’s choc cup, which was a chocolate case filled with Bailey’s Irish Cream – fabulous! Brian chose the best crème brulée you have ever tasted, thick and creamy on the inside with a crunchy topping. Absolute heaven.
The à la carte is served every evening from Tuesday to Saturday.
Options include steak and a sweet for two for £10, excellent value for money.
Lunch time specials include two courses for £4.95 or three courses for £5.75. Bar meals start at £5.25, there are jacket potatoes, with a choice of fillings from £3.95 and sandwiches from £3.
If you are put off going out for a meal because you have special dietary requirements, the chef will cater for all your needs. Nothing is too much trouble.
This is a really good country pub, with excellent food, and really worth a visit.
