My experience at the new Pickle Barrel Restaurant.

I have finally had a chance to visit and eat at the new Pickle Barrel in Newmarket. It has been in the making for some time now due to some sort of delay. I have been driving by it now since the opening with much anticipation to try it out.

From the outside it is very inviting with the perfect curb appeal. Its contemporary look and beautiful gardens in front are most certain to draw in customers. The inside is beautiful and relaxing with earthy colours of grays, browns and beige's. Very spacious, comfortable seating, everything was neat and clean. My waitress Sarah was very cheerful and friendly.

The menu arrived and it was a book. I was excited to see Rose Riseman had a special section in the menu book with her special recipes. I love all of her information on healthier choices so I have been following her on Twitter and TV appearances. After 10 minutes of looking through the book I finally decided what I wanted and it was the Basa fish with light panko breading, vegetables and brown basmati rice, it was perfect for my special diet needs.

So now! the place was inviting, the atmosphere was beautiful, calm and comfortable, I was very excited to eat. Staff was friendly, the menu large but I guess they are trying a new approach and it is well written.

The food arrived and the portion was big but plated very sloppy, the colours were all the same browny beige, with not much mouth watering appeal,then I tasted it. Lets just say I will never order that again, it was salty, heavily breaded(panko breadcrumbs should be light, crispy and flaky)it was fried and not very tasty at all. The brown rice did not taste like basmati and was overcooked, the vegetables were soaked in thick soya type sauce.

I am not one to complain in a restaurant or send food back I will try to eat what I have or not at all, but it does affect if I will return and give it another go. I am just disappointed because I really did want it to be my new go to place and really even though everything else was perfect, lets face it, its all about the food and being a cook and food blogger myself. I think that the way food is made in any restaurant especially a chain should be consistent in quality,taste and plating. I rarely eat at those famous fast food places but I must say no matter which one or where or how long I haven't had it, MacDonalds food is consistent and exactly what you expect every time. That is the product of proper training and high standards of protocol. That is something to learn from.

That's my experience, I love to hear yours.


Rose Arangio