Six months since the grand opening of Marco Pierre White’s refurbished The Swan Inn, a large country pub situated alongside the A59 at Aughton, ClickLiverpool decided it was high time to make the lengthy journey (only 40 minutes from city centre) and see what all the fuss is about.
It is unfortunate a shoddily tarmaced car park and large bins stored to the rear of the building are visible on the approach, but I urge you to ignore these and step inside. Fine décor, white linen table cloths and gentle, welcoming atmosphere will eradicate the grim reality of the outside world from your mind.
Greeted by two signs bearing the words “Dress Code: Smart/casual. Strictly no sportswear or trainers.” (i.e ‘No Chavs Allowed’), diners are assured/warned that Marco Pierre won’t welcome every Tom, Dick, Mark or Peter through his doors.
And rightly so, this fine establishment deserves to be treated with the respect afforded to its patrons by the polite and attentive waiting staff, impeccably dressed in crisp black and white uniforms, complete with white gloves.
Celebrity Chef White was the youngest Chef in the world to be awarded 3 Michelin Stars. Behind the bar hangs a framed Sunday Times magazine article depicting White towering over Gordon Ramsay’s severed head, laid on a platter before him. Both have taken on the head chef crown in ITV’s Hell’s Kitchen, White is clearly proud to assert his culinary talents, and the array on offer in his Anglo-French menu does exactly that.
Starters included homemade Soup of the Day, Honey Roasted Parsnip and Apple. An undeniably hearty choice with a refreshing fruity tang but I’d recommend meat lovers choose the Chicken Liver Parfait, tangy House Chutney served with a crispy Sour Dough Croute or Pressed Ham Knuckle Terrine, Pea Puree and Hazelnut Dressing.
Arriving for Sunday Lunch, I simply had to opt for Roast Topside of Beef, complete with mouth-watering Yorkshire Pudding and Traditional Trimmings. A giant portion of tender beef, served medium-rare, along with creamy mash, golden roasties and shredded cabbage drizzled in onion gravy. Outstanding.
Speedy service and all dishes were exquisitely presented, my dining companion chose the succulent Gloucester Old Spot Pork Lion Chop, Mustard Mash, Apple Sauce with Jus Roti. Clean plates and bulging stomachs say it all!
Yet, with eyes bigger than our bellies, we couldn’t resist sampling the Poached Apricot and Frangipan Tarlet, served warm with a healthy portion of cream and the two-cheese board - a mature white cheddar and an orange medium-blue with a soft, creamy texture – served with quince jelly and selection of celery, grapes and crackers.
White, dubbed the Godfather of modern British cooking, has done a sterling job in delivering what he declared “Affordable Glamour”, and although he is no longer hands on in the kitchen, it is evident the staff have been trained to his Michelin Star standard.
There isn’t a dish on the A La Carte Menu that doesn’t sound deliciously tempting, and, what’s more, the prices are incredibly good value. Available daytime and evenings (Mon-Thurs), you can enjoy 2 courses at £14.50 or 3 courses for just £18.50.
The Swan Inn caters for parties of up to 100 people, with 12 bedrooms and specialist event offers visit http://www.mpwtheswan.co.uk/ for further information and bookings.
The Swan Inn
Springfield Rd
Aughton, Ormskirk L39 6ST
t. 01695 421450
e. info@mpwtheswan.co.uk
colin, stratford around 4 months, 3 weeks ago