Celebrating my husband’s birthday at The Hand and Flowers, the acclaimed Tom Kerridge restaurant, was an adventure in culinary excellence, even for a dedicated vegan like me. Known for its meat-centric dishes, I was pleasantly surprised by their dedicated vegan set menu, showing that their commitment to quality extends to all dietary preferences.
My evening began on a high note with an amuse-bouche of tempura vegetables, perfectly crisp and bursting with flavour. This delightful start was followed by a starter of parsley soup with croutons. The fresh, vibrant notes of parsley, combined with the satisfying crunch of the croutons, made for a delightful and flavourful beginning to our meal.
The main course was a highlight: caramelised cauliflower risotto, accompanied by the delicious mashed potatoes. The risotto was really rich, with the caramelised cauliflower adding a subtle sweetness that perfectly complemented the dish’s savoury notes. The mashed potatoes were silky smooth and indulgent, making the main course a true delight.
While the vegan dessert option of coconut cream and mango sorbet sounded tempting, my unique phobia of mangoes meant I skipped this course. However, the overall experience was far from disappointing. Each dish was thoughtfully prepared, showcasing the culinary prowess of The Hand and Flowers. The service and staff were delightful, attending to every detail with warmth and professionalism. We also indulged in both alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails, which were amazing and added to the celebratory atmosphere. Our visit made the celebration memorable and delicious.
As I Eat It... 