Our commitment to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients is at the heart of everything we do. As winter gives way to spring, our kitchen is alive with fresh, vibrant produce that captures the essence of the changing season. This month, we’re celebrating a selection of ingredients that bring brightness and depth to our menu.
Brigham Crab: A Taste of the Coast
March marks the peak season for Brigham crab, renowned for its sweet, meaty texture and delicate flavour. Sourced from the cold, nutrient-rich waters off the coast, this crab is at its best during early spring. Its flavourful meat is wonderfully versatile, perfect for light, refreshing dishes that herald the arrival of warmer days. Whether served simply with lemon and wild garlic butter or as part of an elegant spring salad, Brigham crab showcases the finest of British seafood.
The Fragrant Appeal of Wild Garlic
Foraging season is upon us, and one of the first signs of spring is the unmistakable aroma of wild garlic carpeting woodland floors. Its tender leaves bring a vibrant, garlicky freshness to our dishes, without overpowering more delicate flavours. We love to use it in pestos, soups, and as a fragrant garnish to enhance the season’s best ingredients. Pairing wild garlic with fresh peas and broad beans adds a verdant, grassy note that epitomises early spring on the plate.
A Celebration of Seasonal Bounty
This time of year marks the arrival of tender new season lamb, a true highlight of the month. Raised on fresh spring grass, its flavour is rich and mellow, with a natural sweetness that’s at its peak in the early months of the season. Courgette flowers, another seasonal delicacy, bring a delicate, subtle flavour to the menu, with a gentle sweetness that perfectly captures the essence of spring. Rhubarb, with its tart, citrusy brightness, is a March favourite, providing a sharp contrast to sweet desserts. We love to showcase it our desserts for a balanced, refreshing finish.
The Unique Climate of Isle of Wight Tomatoes
While we pride ourselves on sourcing locally, some ingredients are worth reaching a little further for. Isle of Wight tomatoes, grown in the island’s sunnier, milder climate, develop a deep, natural sweetness that sets them apart. The extended growing season and high light levels create tomatoes with exceptional depth of flavour, making them a staple on our spring menu. Whether served simply as a gazpacho sorbet or as a vibrant addition to our seafood dishes, these tomatoes are a celebration of quality and care in British produce.