REVIEW: The Crown, Old Basing (From Basingstoke Gazette)

REVIEW: The Crown, Old Basing

9:00am Monday 26th September 2011 in Taste and Tell By Emily Roberts

I WAS impressed with The Crown before I even stepped through the door.

That was because when I booked a table I was asked if I had any dietary requirements. Since being told to temporarily cut wheat from my diet, dining out has proved difficult, so it was a relief to know I wouldn’t have to feel awkward about asking and could instead relax and enjoy the evening.

The positive experience continued when I arrived, as I was told that there was wheat-free bread for me.

A member of staff highlighted all the wheat-free dishes on the menu, of which there was an adequate selection. But rather than limiting my choice to these, instead she said the chefs could adapt most of the others if I fancied any of them.

The Crown was refurbished and re-opened by its new owners in March after closing for seven months.

I had wanted to visit for a while after hearing that the Basingstoke College of Technology trained chefs were putting the pub on the culinary map.

So far, the experience was surpassing my already high expectations.

I chose scallops for a starter, accompanied by peas, bacon and a delicious foam and for £8.50 it was a treat worth spending a little extra on. My brother assured me that his chicken and bacon croquette with creamed leeks was equally as tasty.

For the main course I opted for dry aged sirloin of English beef with garlic and herb butter, Crown chips and slow-cooked mushroom and tomato. I asked for the beef medium, and that is exactly how it was cooked, to perfection, and the chunky chips were the perfect accompaniment. At £17.95 it was the most expensive option on the menu, but the portion was generous and almost too large for my appetite.

My brother happily consumed all of his slow roast English pork belly with carrot puree, spinach and fondant potato.

Despite feeling full, I was unable to resist dessert, so we shared a crème brulee with raspberries, accompanied by shortbread which my brother said was still warm. This fruity, sweet indulgence was the perfect end to the meal.

In total, the bill, including one soft drink came to £53.25, which we both agreed was very reasonable for the quality of food and exceptional service.

The Crown, Old Basing

01256 321424

thecrownoldbasing.com