Review on Hintlesham Hall
A breathtaking Grade I-listed Elizabethan manor house with Georgian additions, Hintlesham Hall is a gem set in 175 acres of immaculate grounds and formal gardens within easy reach of Ipswich. Inside, it is resplendent with superb antiques, fine art, chandeliers, panelling and all the trappings of aristocratic living.
Hintlesham was made famous as a restaurant by bon viveur Robert Carrier during the 1970s, and it still offers a top-end dining experience of pure indulgence. The showpiece Salon Restaurant oozes old-world opulence and it's one of the few dining rooms that still applies a formal dress code. Marvel at the glorious spectacle of it all, the high domed ceiling etched with gold leaf, the fine views from the huge windows and the legions of impeccably turned-out, consummately drilled staff.
Long-serving chef Alan Ford continues to deliver the goods, and his deft cooking is built around top-notch ingredients. Mainstream modern European themes underpin most of his dishes, which are resolutely rooted in the country house tradition. To begin, there might be carpaccio of venison with pickled figs and marinated purple potatoes, while main courses could stretch from Suffolk pork cooked three ways with Aspall cider jus to steamed John Dory with dill noodles and Champagne essence. Desserts put on a show with the likes of Armagnac crème brûlée or chocolate soufflé with Kirsch-marinated cherry smoothie. The magisterial 350-bin wine list is a serious collection of pedigree vintages and more youthful stuff, with plenty of half bottles and a fine selection by the glass.
Hintlesham Hall is also featured in: Michelin Guide, AA Guide
Rate this RestaurantCuisine
Modern European
Chef
Alan Ford
Restaurant Opening Times
Breakfast: 7.00 - 9.30am Mon- Fri
Lunch: 12.00 - 2.00pm (2.00 - 5.00pm Afternoon Tea)
Dinner: 6.30 - 10.30pm
Accepted credit cards
Visa, Master Card, American Express
