Friday Night Pub Dining

And so it was Friday night, where f&b outlets everywhere would be swarming with people; but hey we are in England afterall where Friday nights is the time of the week which people look forward to to unwind and chill out, coupled with the fact that for my mates and I, this Friday in particular called for a celebration to the end of a crazy, work-filled week, so where better than to head to a pub on the Bristol harbourside? No.1 Harbourside it is.

Cream of Cauliflower

 This pub prides itself on serving their home-made soup of the day with any order of food. Cream of cauliflower was served, but pity effort was evidently lacking in terms of presentation. The taste was good, albeit a bit diluted, but the pub would have scored brownie points if we weren't made to feel that "it's free so don't expect too much".

Slow braised Wye Valley duck leg in orange and red wine jus (£10) 

served with vegetable pastry, buttered kale and chestnut mushroom puree

The orange and red wine jus flavoured the duck with a wonderful tangy sweet taste. A longer stewing time would perhaps do it more good, as the duck meat didn't quite come off the bone as easily as I would have liked. The buttered kale (under the duck) was nicely done, cooked fragrant and still left with a crunch in it. Chestnut mushroom puree was interesting, but subtle in flavours, and the pesto that it was served with had an aftertaste akin to raw garlic that didn't go so well with my mates.

Herb encrusted Pork Tenderloin (£9), 

served with the same sides as abovementioned

 The pork tenderloin was tender... but unfortunately, slightly on the chewy side as well. 

What I enjoyed about the meal here was the side of vegetable pastry that all the mains came with. I found it a good replacement to the usual sides of chips or mash; guilt-free and helpful to those looking for a meal where you won't be made full just based on the carbs alone. The root vegetables under the pastry were stewed with their natural sweetness still intact, providing a satisfying end to the meal!

Overall, a hearty meal that worked well as comfort food for the wearied soul! (not to mention good value pre-theatre meal too!)

No.1 Harbourside
No.1 Canons Road,
Bristol,
BS1 5UH