It was mid-week that Mr. Foxy and I decided to have a date night, and when there is a new restaurant in Chesham, Buckinghamshire, well on the picturesque outskirts, what better reason to try it out. We were lucky enough to attend the launch night last month, where the sample steaks were juicy and the arancini were melt in the mouth, so we were very much looking forward to trying out the service and food properly.
Will checked us in and was prompt in showing us to our table. It was a warm spring evening and with the nights getting lighter we were happy to be in the new conservatory, which had heating should we need it. We were introduced to Matt who took our wine order as we plumbed for the New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc – one of Mr Foxy’s personal favourites.
As we admired the outdoors-indoors decor of the area we were sitting in we perused the menu and had to use all our will power to steer clear of the arancini in order to try new things. The menu is innovative and a mix of heavy and light bites. Our starters were served by a very friendly Ali, who was all smiles, and approved of our choices. Mr. Foxy chose the smoked pork belly in a maple glaze with black pudding crumb and apple puree. I wanted something lighter so I opted for the charred duck breast with sweet watermelon, rocket and pomegranate dressing. It really popped, and the hoisin miso dressing really made it sing in the mouth. Not one bite was left on the plates – a testament to the fresh ingredients and tasty combinations of each dish.
Now in the mood for the main act we fancied something heavier. I went for the 8oz ribeye steak (12oz is also available) , with triple cooked chips, cheese topped mushrooms and watercress – with a bearnaise sauce. Having sampled some of my starter, he was in the mood for pan-fried duck breast with a honey and sesame glaze, accompanied by a cheese croquet purple carrots and a red wine sauce. My medium-rare steak was cooked to perfection as was his duck breast. Again, both plates were polished off, with hardly a trace of sauce left on them. We were nicely sated, but not too full, so the portion sizes are spot on – leaving room for that all important dessert.
Mr. Foxy will always have the cheese board, as he lacks a sweet tooth. This is a good leveller for any eatery; a culinary spirit level as it were. The variety of cheeses on offer. The mix of old favourites with some new breeds thrown in to keep you on your toes. The correct cracker to cheese ratio and a good amount of chutney or butter to keep things palatable. The Lazy Pig hit each of these factors on the head and he was a very happy bunny – sorry – I mean Fox! It didn’t take me long to choose something sweet and decadant, as I had barely got past the first line of the Chocolate Millefeuille and I was drooling. This peanut, chocolate and flakey pastry combination was a hit. Nicely presented – but devoured far too quickly. Mr. Foxy was however able to take a photo of it before I stabbed him (and the dessert) with my spoon.
We both had a thoroughly enjoyable evening at The Lazy Pig in the Pantry and will be back. This upscale restaurant is the newest addition to the Revere Pub Company within the Marston Group, and just what is needed in the Chiltern Hills. Book now – to avoid disappointment!
www.thelazypiginthepantry.com
01494 785739