Review: The Chequers at Woolsthorpe by Belvoir

This was my third visit to The Chequers writes John Mason. My first was in 2013 (dining), and my second visit was only last year for my best friend's dad's wedding reception.
Rib-eye steak with hand-cut chips, rocket salad and Long Clawson Blue Stilton Cheese sauce 
PHOTO: John MasonRib-eye steak with hand-cut chips, rocket salad and Long Clawson Blue Stilton Cheese sauce 
PHOTO: John Mason
Rib-eye steak with hand-cut chips, rocket salad and Long Clawson Blue Stilton Cheese sauce PHOTO: John Mason

I thoroughly enjoy going there because its set in the tranquil heart of the Vale of Belvoir, it always has a good selection of ales on and the food, well that’s the best bit you’ll be pleased to hear.

Picture logs on the fire, candle lighting and a rustic ambiance. That’s a good starting point right? From the moment we arrived service was impeccable, our drinks orders taken and we were shown straight to our table which was a welcome relief because we were hungry.

I was dining with my partner and this was our second anniversary so we were looking forward to some good grub.

What did I have to eat? For starter it had to be the scallops, granted they’re not to everyone’s taste but I for one love them so it was great when I was presented with two nestled alongside a mushroom fricassee and dressed in a tangy parsnip puree. Delicious!

The main course for me came in the form of medium rare rib-eye steak, hand-cut chips, a rocket salad and a dynamite Long Clawson Blue Stilton Cheese sauce dip.

The steak was perfectly cooked and seasoned and the meal was unusually served on a handcrafted bread board. A very nice touch.

A flavour-packed dessert of rhubarb and apple pie, with white chocolate custard and cinnamon ice cream rounded the evening off a treat. Expecting to see a small piece of pie doused in custard to my complete surprise I was presented with my own mini pie and custard which oozed out from its centre once broken into to.

A quick line on the beer. I couldn’t drink too much as I was on driving duty but the one I did manage, a pint of Adnams, is well worth the gamble with a steak.

Throughout the evening we were served by two waitresses who worked in perfect tandem to keep service flowing. Never once were we left waiting or felt pushed to finish.

The prices were a little steep at around £40 per head but I don’t think in today’s society you can wince at that, especially as it was a meal for a special occasion.

Criticisms. Only two. I’m only being picky though and it’s just my opinion. I think, if one is going to pay above £10 for a starter I’d have liked a third scallop and for pudding I definitely wanted more heavenly white chocolate custard. After only a few spoonfuls it disappeared, leaving me with a lot of pie to polish off unaccompanied. More custard please chef!

All in all it was a flawless dining experience and excellent night of food. I’d go back in a heartbeat.

I can only apologise for the lack of photos. I must admit I was too engrossed in the food to remember to take anymore which should tell you all you need to know about this wonderful pub.

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