As you may sense from reading my previous posts and following me on my instagram (mintyessence), I love to explore! Exploring new locations has to be something I am most passionate about and when I discover somewhere new that is worth sharing, I take every given opportunity to capture the moment through my lens.
I was kindly invited to one of the most peaceful and tranquil locations in the Cotswolds, the Maytime Inn. Located exactly 0.5 miles from the A40 and 30 mins from Oxford town, it was pretty easy to drive to.
After hearing so much good experiences from friends who had visited the Cotswolds area, it was great to see it all for myself! The long, narrow but scenic roads leading to the historic village of Asthall near Burford reminded me so much of the Yorkshire Dales. Something I am most familiar with.
My Experience will be split into two parts:
The Restaurant Review
and
The Night’s Stay in the Hunting Room.
It was just before dinner that I briefly met Dominic Wood who has been the owner of this lovely BandB pub for just over three years. With an impressive history which dates back to the 17th Century where it was a coaching Inn, this entrepreneur has done well to continue its successful business. This was evidently the case as the evening was buzzing with locals and some new guest staying over.
I was grateful to carry my companion Naomi for the evening to help me choose some brilliant choices the menu had to offer because after all you cannot just leave after sampling one item.
The staff were extremely friendly and hospitable throughout the whole night so personal approach was considered.
Drinks were offered and as a first time visitor I sensed that this pub prides themselves with their range of gin options they have to offer… 37 at the moment is pretty good I think.
Enthusiastic about Gin time, this is a hot spot if ‘gin o’clock’ is your thing. Not only is the bar open just in the evenings but for lunch time catch ups too.
I don’t drink alcohol so happily enjoyed my elder-flower and pomegranate drink which was refreshing indeed! My friend had the Ginger Ale which she really enjoyed and wanted to buy more of.
Presented with the ‘Autumn Time Menu’ it was great to know the food was all made from fresh local produce. There is of course plenty of food choice to choose from throughout the day such as the pub classics, the a la carte menu and even the lunch menu for midday.
For starters we got Chilli and Garlic Olives which were divine. Not being a huge fan of spice that kick was just what I needed after driving all the way from Leeds that afternoon. There was also pitta and hummus which I cannot fault as the pitta was served warm. The hummus however was tasteless compared to others I have ever tried and not very smooth. Nonetheless, the bread and olives together were a great way to open up the appetite.
For the main I had a tender and juicy braised shin of Beef, potato and celeriac mash, savoy cabbage, chantenay carrots. £14.95*
The meat was so soft and tasty you could tell straight away it was a good quality cut of meat. My portion was perfect and very filling indeed! It was just what I needed and accompanied by some homegrown carrots. The sauce was sweet and just enough of it to be soaked up with the creamy mash.
My friend had the Pan roasted chicken breast, wild mushrooms, curly kale, parimentier potatoes and cep sauce. £12.95*
She loved it so much I knew I’d have to have it next time I come back. It smelt so good and the presentation was spot on. The sauce went well with all the flavours on the dish. The portion size was said to be just right for a small eater like herself so she was content with it all.
The acoustics in the background and candle lit dinner made it such a pleasant environment to be in on such a cool night in Oxforshire.
For dessert I sampled the Blackberry Parfait, honeycomb and apple sponge which was a very seasonal choice in my opinion. I am almost always drawn to the fruity/ berry filled desserts… I just cannot help it! The parfait was so cooling, sweet and went well with the crispy honeycomb. I just wish there was more of the apple sponge as I felt I could of had more of it. £6.50*
My friend had the home made ice creams which included rum + raisin, vanilla and pistachio flavours… yum! Homemade is always the best right? £5*
To end the night we bought hot drinks so settle us for bed, my choice was hot chocolate and a latte for my friend. My hot chocolate was so creamy and lush, I just wanted to curl up in front of the log fire and snuggle up with the cushions that lined the windows.
Later we went and stayed in the Hunting Room but I’ll tell you all about that later!
but that is for another post!
Overall I had a great experience dining here. The setting and friendly staff made it rate a high 8/10 in my books. I would have liked to maybe be presented with the owners own personal favorites to give me a gist of his personality within the company.
At the Maytime Inn they rent out their space for large group, memorable celebrations and even showcase local talents with open mics occasionally.
I also had a quick look at their ‘cracking Christmas Menu’- excuse the pun!! It all looks very reasonably priced for the set menu so don’t forget to book soon!
Will you be paying the Maytime a visit for a dining experience?
The Maytime Inn
Asthall, Burford
Oxfordshire
OX18 4HW
Similar Food Review: Ox Pasture Hall Courtyard