On a cold, dull Saturday, which also happened to be my 31st birthday, we decided to celebrate in style by taking a trip to Durham and pay a visit to Marco Pierre White's Steakhouse Bar & Grill.
Located in Hotel Indigo on the Old Elvet, just a short walk from the city centre, the restaurant envelops the same modern elegance of the hotel it is located in, which subtle nods to the classic aesthetic of the gorgeous historical building.
The subdued lighting creates an intimate atmosphere, making it an ideal setting for a romantic dinner or a celebratory meal, and what better occasion to celebrate than a day all about me?!
The staff are attentive and knowledgeable, adding a personal touch to the dining experience and their genuine enthusiasm for the menu makes you excited about every dish.
Speaking of the menu, prepare your tastebuds for a treat. We'd had an early start to the day and a lack of birthday cake had left us with quite the appetite so stepping out of the usual routine we went for starters, mains, and desserts and when I say all three courses were flawless it isn't an exaggeration.
Having done my usual trick of deciding what I was going to eat for my main course three days in advance I decided that I would start with something light. The beetroot and goat cheese salad was an excellent choice. The tartness of the beetroot combined with the creamy goat cheese and occasional crunch of candied walnuts was reminiscent of the summer we did not have this year, light and flavourful it truly set the tone for the rest of the meal.
As I mentioned previously, I already knew what my main course was going to be, and that was of course the steak. I don't claim to be a connoisseur of steak, but I have eaten enough steak to feel I am qualified to pass judgment. The filet steak with garlic butter was succulent, cooked to perfection and each bite was tender and flavoursome. And I can't not mention the woodland mushrooms served alongside- as a mushroom lover, they were nothing short of a masterpiece.
I admit I was feeling very full at this point, but it was a special occasion and it would have been rude not to try the WHOLE menu, so when we were offered the dessert menu I practically snatched it out of our waiter's hand to drool over the variety of classic puds on offer. From apple & almond crumble to ice creams and sorbets, it is a menu guaranteed to please a crowd.
After agonising over a cheese board and crumble, although I am still feeling slightly crumbled out from my summer crumble escapades, I settled on the 70% dark chocolate mousse hoping for a decadent end to my meal without making me feel like I want to burst. It was certainly decadent, the smooth rich mousse paired perfectly with the chantilly cream and raspberries, but it did finish me off. My eyes were bigger than my belly and I reluctantly polished it off leaving myself feeling very sick!
As well as an extensive food menu, the restaurant also boasts a large drinks menu full of cocktails, soft drinks, and a fantastic wine list. I'd been influenced into drinking rum and ginger beer lately so I was elated to see that one of their signature cocktails was a 'Cuban Cup'. A blend of Havana rum, Cointreau, orange bitters, and ginger ale, it's a 'grown-up' version of my new favourite drink and it did not disappoint. I savoured every sip and it is certainly one I'd like to try and replicate myself!
While the prices may lean towards the higher end, the overall experience and quality of the food justify the cost. If like us, you're looking to celebrate or you're just having a 'treat yourself day' Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill is not to be missed. It is a true stand-out gem and a destination for those looking for something more upscale in the heart of the city.
The Details:
Located in the Indigo Hotel
Old Shire Hall
9 Old Elvet
Durham
DH1 3HL
Ratings:
Service: 9
Surroundings: 8
Food Quality: 9
Value for money: 8
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