Wondering what to do for Christmas this year? Look no further than The Creameries in Chorlton. which has just launched a six course Christmas Feast for £35 per person. Since opening in April, the casual bread shop, cafe and restaurant has established itself as a suburban gem to be reckoned with. Chef Mary-Ellen McTague’s (sous chef at Heston Blumenthal’s The Fat Duck and Head Chef at the Aumbry) freshly made, ethically sourced fare achieves a rare balance in that it is original, elegant, and often surprising, without abandoning the sort of energy and value for money that locals demand. The restaurant itself, a transformed former Edwardian dairy, envelopes you on arrival, as the open kitchen anchored in the centre allows staff to greet you warmly and guide you to the dining room at the back. Expect a laid back neighbourhood vibe among the hanging vines and greenery, leaving an intensely likeable first taste. The menu is split between vegetarian and meat options and is ideal for sharing. There are deliciously hot and salty gougères with liquid cheesy centres. The focaccia bread, baked on site, is a perfect balance of chewy and tender that crackles and dissolves in the mouth. The home-smoked mackerel flakes perfectly, and is magnificently moist with just the right amount of smoky bangs. There is a knödel-style spiced butternut squash broth with a Beenleigh blue cheese dumpling in the centre. Another highlight was pheasant pie, all buttery pastry and autumn vegetables balancing out the rich game. For desert, as well as the old favourite Christmas pud, there’s hazelnut parfait with an herby rosemary twist, with Pedro Ximénez Sherry and English whiskey sauce. To round the night off, we had chocolates infused with the Christmas sorcery of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Our wine pairing for the evening was substantial and reflective of the diverse tastes on offer (£20 extra). There is a Christmas miracle to be had here at The Creameries. Time is limited, however, so we recommend booking soon…

The Creameries, 406 Wilbraham Road, Chorlton, Manchester M21 0UF. Tue: 8am-3pm, Wed-Sat: 8am-11pm & Sun: 9am-9pm, Festive feast £35 per person + £20 per person wine flight,  www.thecreameries.co.uk

Mon 3 Dec - Mon 1 Jan
Words:
Olive Denneny
Published on:
Sat 3 Nov 2018