A TV throwback

We were on the telly box…Great British Menu 2016

In 2016 Chef Patron Daniel Smith was invited to take part in TV’s Great British Menu in a year that would make history as the winner would cook for a televised banquet to be held in the historic House of Commons Members’ Dining Room in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s ‘Great Britons’. 

The Chefs were challenged to create dishes that would recognise their achievements and represent the Modern Elizabethan Age in the year that The Queen celebrated her 90th birthday.  Taking their inspiration from the transformation in British food throughout her historic reign and recognising the achievements of ordinary people recognised for going above and beyond for their community, their charity or their country.  

Daniel’s Starter ‘Above and Beyond’ was Maris Piper Potato & Crab Risotto with Poached Lobster Tail, Lobster Emulsion, Cheese Custard.  Chosen to honour our local Lifeboat Service – having grown up in Caister-on-Sea, inspired by the bravery and commitment of the Caister Lifeboat men, whose Coxswain was also a Lobster and Crab Fisherman.  The dish was presented with an image of a Lifeboat and the crew’s motto - Caister Men Never Turn Back.

For his Main Course ‘Great British Heritage’, Daniel chose the very best of our local Norfolk produce - Braised Shin of Norfolk Aberdeen Angus Beef with Rare Beef Fillet served with fresh Norfolk vegetables – demonstrating the enduring British love of ‘Roast Beef’ - and still a Sunday favourite with our diners.

His ‘National Treasure’ Dessert was served on a Red Cushion mirroring the ceremony that takes place when The Queen bestows an award at the official ceremony to reflect the courage and endeavour of our ‘Great Britons’ and in recognition of Her Majesty for whom White Peach is a favoured fruit . This dessert has been made available on our menus for the months of June & July this year to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee of Her Majesty 2022.

Wish we could do it all over again… what an experience!