The White Swan, Stow-cum-Quy

The White Swan is a traditional village real ale Free House which has recently changed ownership and is now being run by Gerry Skews and family. We went to dinner there on Good Friday and thought it was brilliant! Our host in the restaurant was Martin who provided a really excellent, friendly and attentive level of service without being overbearing. He was well-informed about all the food and drink on offer and went out of his way to ensure that one of our party, who is currently expecting, had all her questions answered with regards to the suitability of different items on the menu.

The food was all fresh, tasty and really well-prepared. We saved room for dessert and I can highly recommend the mixed assiette that we sampled on the night. We went for beer over wine with our meal (although there was a bottle of Italian red on offer that we will definitely be going back to try) and the Norman Gold was a real find � brewed in Northern France by an English gent, they will be offering other bottled beers from the range in the near future. Also on the pumps were Woodforde�s Wherry, Oakham�s JHB, Adnams Southwold Bitter and another real ale whose name escapes me for now.

After a thoroughly enjoyable evening, we had a quick chat to Gerry, the owner, on our way out. He asked for our feedback and we suggested a few minor cosmetic changes. Gerry said that the team had decided to concentrate on getting the food and drink right first as the rest would follow. They�re right of course and what�s more, they�re well on their way. We�d heartily recommend an evening in the White Swan (they do a bar menu too), even if it means we have to book further in advance next time!

15 Apr 2012 17:54