Pig and Whistle

This is another great addition to the Essex food scene and can’t believe that up until a short while ago I hadn’t heard about this place. But I can honestly say I’m so glad I do now and also look forward to more visits in the future. The restaurant itself is just a short ten minute drive to the west of Chelmsford in the delightful countryside setting of Chignal Smealy. We arrived on Sunday and was given a lovely greeting from Amanda. We was a bit early but this wasn’t a problem and was shown to our table. Once seated we then met the owner Brendan who it was nice to chat to throughout our lunch. He took great pleasure in telling us how he bought the pub five years ago and turned it into a restaurant. While enjoying a drink we browsed the menu which had a nice selection of starters , mains & desserts considering it was a Sunday Lunch menu. We started with a Smoked Salmon Duo , Saffron Mayonnaise , Dill Blinis & Pickled Cucumber and a Fried Calamari , Baby Octopus , Black Aioli & Sweet Chilli Sauce both dishes were a delight.

SMOKED SALMON DUO

CALAMARI & BABY OCTOPUS

Now it was time for our main to which we both decided to have the Roast Beef. This was an easy decision as we’d seen it being served to other tables although I have to admit that the Gammon along with other dishes looked delicious as well. But I think we can honestly the Roast Beef with it’s accompaniment’s of carrots , broccoli , parsnips , red cabbage , cauliflower cheese , stuffing balls , yorkshire puddings & roast potatoes made this one of the best roast dinners we eaten in a long while.

ROAST BEEF

After a well deserved rest it was time for dessert and we was in for a nice surprise as Brendan asked if we’d like to have an assiette of desserts. This seemed to good to say no to so delightfully accepted. It turned out to be a great decision as each dessert was delicious consisting of a Vanilla Pannacotta , Dark Chocolate Mousse , Blackberry Bakewell Tart & Lemon Meringue Parfait.

ASSIETTE OF DESSERTS

So after finishing with a coffee and some delicious homemade Marshmallows this brought an end to a fantastic Sunday Lunch. The food was excellent and matched with good friendly service so you could see why they recently won the Best Customer Service at the Essex FADA. We will definitely be returning soon to try the Al a Carte or the Afternoon Tea and yes I would highly recommend a visit. I would also advise to book in advance or at least give them a call first as the restaurant is very popular not just with locals but surrounding areas

MARSHMALLOWS

#ChignalSmealy #Chelmsford #Essex