We revisited The Clunie Dining Room again during this stay, with the opportunity this time around to sit in their restaurant. The ambiance is cosy and suiting for an evening dinner, it might be more charming than for the breakfast, with the light of the night creating a completely different atmosphere. Paired with the decoration of the room, it was a special end to the trip. We looked at the menu for the final time, opting for the full works (Starter, main and dessert) We might as well go out with a bang… The food here generally is not for people who want to watch their weight, I have noticed it is rich and filling, larger portions than usual that would make any American happy as Larry. (This is not a complaint, just an observation). We all have these days where we want to indulge, and The Clunie Dining Room would be THE place to unleash this urge- The food comforts you.
Whilst we are on this topic of comfort and warmth, the smoked cheese soufflé stood out for me on this menu- I wanted it. The cheese and chive Mornay sauce, (derived from the mother sauce Bechamel) On such a cold, winter night, brought happiness and fullness! The soufflé was light, and dome like, with a generous amount of cheese both in the dish and inside the soufflé itself. You could taste the strong flavour of it, in no way was it subtle, which I appreciated. It was completely decadent and a dish that would fit right at home within a French banquet if we were stepping back in time. Bitter leaves and pickled shallot, helped to cut through to give some respite, in order that you can carry on eating it. Served in a copper pan for extra effect- this is classic cookery.
You would have thought being our second time here, we would have chosen something else for our main but no, it had to be ‘take two’ on the duck. I wasn’t joking when I said the duck fritter and rosti chips were addictive. This time, everything was even better than the last. The duck was softer and slightly pinker, and the skin was nailed. I don’t even need to talk about the rosti chips- Just try them and watch yourself become like a magnet, unable to tear yourself away! This whole offering is excellent on their menu, and it should stay. For dessert we took a simple ice-cream, three scoops of chocolate to share, we felt it was appropriate and a great finisher.
If you love the classics, you will like this place, and the menu is at the size where the chef can focus on a few good dishes and do them well. (As it should be) Technique is behind with the deliciousness in front. When I come back next time, I will allow some room for the beef wellington, it might be one to remember…
