Nestled within the ‘golden’ triangle of Burford, Chipping Norton, and Stow-on-the-Wold, The Hare at Milton stands as a testament to the vibrant culinary scene of the Cotswolds.
As I entered this charming sister pub to The Kingham Plough and The Crown Inn, I couldn’t help but marvel at its tasteful interior.
From the inviting marble-topped bar to the rich palette of dark greens, inky blues, and greys, the ambiance exuded warmth and elegance.
Velvet-covered armchairs, natural linens, and vintage prints completed the cosy atmosphere, setting the stage for a memorable dining experience.
But what truly stole the show at The Hare was their seafood offerings. The extensive choice of seafood specials was a dream come true for any seafood lover.
The daily-changing blackboard fish menu celebrated the freshest and responsibly sourced fish, brought daily from Brixham in Devon.
It was a culinary adventure that I eagerly embarked upon, with the mussels and the tandoori monkfish being my personal highlights.
The mussels, in a delectable broth, were a burst of flavour, while the tandoori monkfish, with its inventive accompaniments, left a lasting craving for more.
The attention to detail was not limited to the seafood. The a la carte menu, crafted by Head Chef Matt Dare, featured locally sourced meat and game, resulting in comforting and well-executed pub classics.
The presentation was equally delightful, as each dish graced the table on stylish, slipware ceramics. Whether indulging in a classic or exploring the seafood offerings, every plate was a treat for both the eyes and the palate.
With a Sunday Roast that should not be missed and options for every member of the family, The Hare at Milton proved to be a true destination pub in the heart of the Cotswolds, deserving of a visit for anyone seeking exceptional pub fare in a stunning setting.
Here are some highlights from the Sunday Lunch menu at The Hare at Milton.
A Taste of the Coast: St Austell Bay Deep Sea Mussels
The St Austell Bay Deep Sea Mussels were a delightful journey to the coast. Plump and abundant, they luxuriated in a fragrant white wine and garlic bath. Every succulent mussel seemed to tell a story of the sea, delivering a briny kiss with each mouthful. Accompanied by slices of crusty sourdough, perfect for soaking up the broth, this starter was a coastal culinary experience, a reminder of the salt-kissed air and the whisper of the waves.
Seared Elegance: Scottish Scallops with Cauliflower Puree
The Seared Scottish Scallops were a culinary masterpiece that combined simplicity and elegance in perfect harmony. Each scallop, seared to a golden perfection, rested on a velvety bed of cauliflower puree. A drizzle of honey and lime dressing added a delicate sweetness and a zesty tang. The scallops, tender and perfectly seared, were a testament to the chef’s precision. This dish felt like a symphony of textures and flavours, a culinary ballet that danced gracefully on the palate.
From the Deep Blue: Cornish Skate Wing
The Cornish Skate Wing was a revelation, celebrating the bounties of the sea. The skate wing, cooked beautifully, was delicate and tender. Accompanied by a generous serving of samphire and normally accompanied by new potatoes which I swapped for fries, the dish was a harmonious blend of freshness and zest. Drizzled with lemon and parsley butter, it showcased the essence of coastal cuisine. With each bite, the sea seemed to sing its songs, and the dish was a reminder of the ocean’s timeless allure.
The Art of Fusion: Tandoori Monkfish
The Tandoori Monkfish was a culinary masterpiece that bridged traditional Indian flavours with contemporary creativity. The monkfish, marinated in tandoori spices, was expertly paired with Turmeric Roasted Cauliflower and a generous scattering of hazelnuts. This came highly recommended and I can see why. The cucumber and mint yoghurt added a refreshing contrast, creating a mosaic of flavours. Each bite was an adventure, a journey through the familiar and the unexpected, a delightful blend of spice, warmth, and freshness.
Sweet Comfort: Sticky Toffee Pudding
The Sticky Toffee Pudding was the epitome of comforting indulgence. A warm, moist sponge soaked in rich toffee sauce embraced the senses with every bite. Served alongside honeycomb ice cream, it was a sweet combination of contrasting textures and flavours. This dessert was a warm, sweet hug for the soul, evoking a sense of nostalgia and pure satisfaction. It was the perfect ending to a remarkable meal, leaving a sweet imprint on the memory but the meal was not over yet.
A Sweet Symphony: Petit Four Selection
The Petit Four Selection at The Hare Milton was a delightful postlude to an extraordinary meal. Each bite-sized treat, from the delicate Florentine to the indulgent White Chocolate Fudge, was a miniature masterpiece. The Coconut & Chocolate truffle was the grand finale, a decadent treat that left a lasting, exquisite impression on the palate. These petite sweets were a sweet way to close the culinary chapter or a sweet treat for a little one. A delightful reminder of the attention to detail and creativity that defined the entire dining experience.
Dining at The Hare at Milton was a culinary journey that encapsulated the essence of the Cotswolds’ vibrant food scene.
The inviting interior, curated with a contemporary rustic charm, set the stage for an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or seeking traditional pub classics, The Hare offers a diverse and delectable menu to cater to every palate.
The careful attention to detail in both presentation and taste was evident in every dish, making it a destination for food lovers far and wide.
The commitment to sourcing fresh, responsible seafood, combined with the imaginative dishes like the tandoori monkfish, showcased the culinary expertise of The Hare’s team.
With options for the whole family, including canine companions, and a Sunday Roast that’s not to be missed, The Hare at Milton is a gem in the heart of the Cotswolds, offering a warm and memorable dining experience.
If you’re in search of a delightful pub meal in a picturesque setting, The Hare is undoubtedly worth a visit, and it promises to leave you with a lasting impression of Cotswold’s culinary excellence.
The Hare at Milton
3 High St, Milton-under-Wychwood, Chipping Norton OX7 6LA
01993 835763
themiltonhare.co.uk
