Henrock

"Arrive 20 mins early, was shown to the bar lounge, very nice, got served drinks, but no-one came to collect us at the due time for the restaurant, so we had to saunter through. Made choice from the menu, appetiser arrived, a pea mousse with a confit egg yolk under, a dash of smoked oil and some fresh peas in the bottom, although they were a little tough. it was ok. Brioche rolls arrived, salted butter and a whipped butter with caramelised onion. Very good. Starter of beef tartare was wrapped in a thin gel, whilst the beef was soft it could have done with a little seasoning. Truffled tofu sauce on side with cracked pepper, dressed with baby leaves, and also dots of egg yolk emulsion. Was able to taste the truffle but would not have known it was a tofu sauce unless told. Next I had 5 spiced hake, topped with a crisp fried oyster, a quenelle of mashed broad bean, a little lemon grass mousse and a shellfish sauce. The hake looked a little dry (could have done with a little glaze) but was ok, perhaps a touch overdone. The five spice coating could have been more pronounced. The broad bean mash was a lot cooler than the rest of the elements. A mango and cucumber pre-dessert next. I'm not a cucumber fan. The Mango foam and pieces were fine but I just don't like the taste of cucumber, and definitely not with mango. To finish a vacherin. Nice meringue hemisphere garnished with edible flowers and leaves, filled with cream and coconut cream lightly iced, sat on a bed of fine diced strawberry, with a strawberry sauce. Very good. Had Anvil beer (from Cartmel made just for Simon Rogan) and sparkling water. Overall service needs a little attention, but I guess needs a little time to get back into the swing after lockdown. Food was of the standard expected, but perhaps a little small in plated portion size when you look at all the elements. I know they say less is more but you also need to consider how much is enough!"