Had the best meal I’ve had for ages.
In William Wordsworth’s place of work in Ambleside (he’s not there now but he was from 1813 until 1843!!).
Craig and Ryan Blackburn opened The Old Stamp House 11 weeks ago. My friends at Cumbria Life visited on the second night they were open – talk about a torture test. And last week they won the award as Cumbria’s Newcomer Restaurant of the Year.
This award will be the first of many.
Ryan’s a young chef, brimful of imagination and a love of local ingredients. Trained at the Michelin starred Holbeck Ghyll and Martin Wishart in Edinburgh, Ryan is one to watch. His brother Craig runs front of house with natural charm, energy and enthusiasm. The food comes from Cumbria and the eight course tasting menu is a steal at £45. Shrimps from Solway Firth, Pollock from Whitehaven, Hogget from Yew Tree Farm in Coniston and herbs/berries foraged from local fells. A solid wine list, local beers, original stone floors, white plastered walls, beautiful wooden chairs/tables.
Go now before Michelin discovers it and the world flocks to Ambleside!!
Luxury Vagabonds rejoice.
