175 Lyndhurst Road, Ashurst New Forest Tel:023 8029 3996

August 2006  Shelley Richards is the new Chef/Patron of the Herb Pot, do visit their website to read all about their  menus, we must try & revisit soon. www.theherbpot.com  

Visited October 2002

Three of us decided to try this pretty little bistro as we had heard it had just opened.  We discovered that it actually opened in April this year so we hope that this favourable report will help to spread the word!  Only one other table was occupied but apparently it is much busier in the evening.

As it is so tiny it is not surprising that it is a non smoking restaurant but the smoking member of our party was irritated that it did not state this in their adverts.  I note it does warn you disgusting smokers of this on their Christmas leaflets!!!!!! 

We decided on the set menu, 2 courses £9.90, 3 courses £12.90, and all started  with Leek & Potato Soup finished with herb cream & croutons.  Very delicate flavour, substantial texture.  In the interests of research we all followed with a different choice!  I had Pan Fried Fillet of Salmon coated with a parsley cream, one friend had Roasted Bell Pepper stuffed with wild mushrooms & Stilton, drizzled with a balsamic glaze, and the other Venison Suet Pudding with poy lentils.  All absolutely delicious & beautifully presented but my favourite was the Venison pudding, such an unusual flavour.  All were accompanied by both new & sauté potatoes plus a delicious mix of very fresh & crunchy vegetables.

My weakness may not be smoking but it is puddings & so I couldn't resist the Summer Pudding served with raspberry puree and vanilla pod ice cream...... scrumptious!!

We were impressed that Gary, the chef & owner, came to ask if we had enjoyed our food and I must mention our very friendly waitress.

Will visit again!

Cost, with a very reasonable House White, £ £ £

Yummy Factor 9/10   

Report C. J.