11:00am Wednesday 3rd April 2013
WITH its cosy log fire, twinkling candles and warm welcome, the Fisherman’s Haunt is a must for good food lovers.
Nestled in the village of Winkton on the edge of the New Forest, the deceptively-large pub and restaurant attracts a varied clientele.
One look at the menu – or should I say menus – makes it easy to see why because there is something for every taste and appetite.
From small plates, nibbles and sandwiches to hearty home comforts and the chef’s selection, the regular menu is a treat packed with locally-sourced produce.
But what makes the Fisherman’s stand head and shoulders above its rivals is the huge selection on the specials board and the separate fresh fish menu.
Selections available during our visit ranged from whole Hampshire trout grilled with almonds and honey and grilled skate wing with caper and lemon butter to Sopley-reared lamb chops with garlic and braised blade of Hampshire beef with a red wine, mushroom and onion sauce.
The pub was busy when we turned up without a reservation on a Sunday afternoon but we were seated promptly by a polite waitress who looked after us throughout our meal.
I couldn’t resist the Fisherman Pie which turned out to be a tasty, filling dish, packed with huge chunks of salmon, cod, haddock and prawns and served with perfectly-cooked vegetables.
My partner plumped for the Owl’s Barn gammon steak, definitely a cut above your average pub gammon and our young guest decided on a small roast beef.
At £6.95 it was just right for those with smaller appetites and was served with a selection of vegetables, tasty stuffing and a huge crispy Yorkshire pudding.
I couldn’t resist ordering creme brulee for dessert and I was not disappointed with its crisp topping and creamy inside. The caramel ice cream was declared ‘the yummiest ever’.
The Fisherman’s Haunt, which also offers attractive-looking accommodation, is appealing throughout the year and has a huge outdoor dining area for the summer months.
I would highly recommend it.
My Fisherman’s Haunt bill:
Fisherman Pie £9.95
Owl’s Barn gammon steak £11.95
Kid’s roast beef £6.75
Caramel ice cream
(one scoop) £1.50
Creme brulee £3.95
Diet Pepsi x3 £6.45
TOTAL: £40.55
The Ratings Board
Location ****
Atmosphere *****
Value For Money ****
Quality of Food *****
Service *****
Comfort *****
Family Friendly *****
Menu Choice *****
Overall Rating *****
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