Review on River Cottage Canteen
Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall launched his fourth River Cottage Canteen in the heart of Winchester city centre, close to it's famous Cathedral, with siblings already established in Axminster, Plymouth and Bristol. Set in the stunning grade II listed Abbey Mill building within Abbey Mill Gardens, just off Broadway, they are part of the site of St Mary's Abbey, once one of the largest religious houses in England. The building has undergone a stunning conversion, retaining many of the original features including a listed portico and mill race. Interiors have a fashionable industrial vibe, with a ceiling featuring exposed metal framework and there are simply laid wooden tables and chairs.
The kitchen runs in tandem with the seasons and there's a real dedication to local produce which is carefully sourced within a 50-mile radius. On offer there might be grilled mackerel fillet with kohlrabi, salted roasted almonds, watercress and almond aioli or West Wellow pork and rabbit rillettes, fried apples and blackberries, served with wholemeal caraway toast. When it comes to main courses there's Swallow Field Farm wild boar belly, roasted Heritage beets, carrots and plums, watercress salsa verde and crackling, or one of their sharing boards of either meat, fish or seasonal vegetables is a popular choice.
A separate bar area is open all day for a selection of local cider, beer, seasonal cocktails, coffee, cakes and snacks. Look out for the Canteen's special events, such as the Cocktail Club, live music nights, cookery demonstrations and parties.
Cuisine
British / Organic
Chef
Phil Baylis
Restaurant Opening Times
Breakfast: 9.00am - 12.00pm Sat & Sun
Lunch: 12.00 - 3.00pm Mon-Fri (12.00 - 10.00pm Sat) (12.00 - 4.00pm Sun)
Dinner: 6.00 - 9.00pm Mon-Thu (6.00 - 10.00pm Fri)
Accepted credit cards
Visa, Master Card