For starters I had a half crab the size of half a rugby ball that was brilliantly fresh. A seafood selection included what seemed like a dozen different items, while red mullet in plenty of dill sauce was simple to eat but no less tasty. Interesting that they fillet all the fish here but leave the shellfish whole, I'm not sure why - perhaps next time I will ask for fish on the bone.
For her main course my mother had and array of Langoustines. Sue and I shared tuna with a pesto related sauce plus sea bass with ginger and lemon grass. Both accompaniment were uncomplicated and happily sat in the background and let the fish take pride and place. Vegetables were simple, fresh and firm. The wine, a little seen white Vacqueras from the southern Rhone, was now drinking very well.
Desserts were read out to us. Sue was not inspired by any of them and passed, but I enjoyed a sponge with lemon sauce and lemon custard. Coffee came in a large cafetiere and was terrific.
The quality of seafood here is second to none, and is simply but accurately cooked. A lot of what you pay must go on the ingredients which makes it keen value and there is also the near restaurant quality service we experienced once we were sat at our table. Our only quibbles would be that crabs and langoustines would have be easier to deal with had our table been a little larger, and their layout means that most clients miss out on a greeting and farewell from the staff.
Broadhembry is between the M5 and A303 on route to Exeter and thoroughly recommended for a short, or even better, a longer pit stop.
The bill came to Stg 75.00 for 3 excluding service (food only Stg 52.00).
Dine Online Copyright Clifton Media Associates 1996, All rights reserved.